San Miguel Parish turns 19

It was a journey worth looking back, and a journey worth looking forward to. That was the resounding feeling of the parishioners of San Miguel Parish in Panacan as they celebrated their 19^th Founding Anniversary last June 16, 2013.

We were blessed to have with us Bishop George Rimando as our main presider during the Holy Eucharistic celebration. In his homily, he mentioned how the parish progressed and developed in terms of its infrastructure. But he was more impressed with the attendance of the parishioners during the Mass, the church was overflowing with churchgoers.

The theme “Bangkete sa Gugma ug Pasaylo” was fitting for the celebration, Bishop Rimando said, because it was indeed a banquet of thanksgiving to the Lord for His love and mercy and for His goodness shown all throughout the 19 years of existence of the parish. He commended Fr. Jhun Gimeno and the entire parishioners for the success of the celebration. Before the recessional, Fr. Jhun expressed his gratitude to the good bishop for gracing the celebration and at the same time welcomed his flock to join the activities after the Mass.

Favored with a good weather that day, Bishop George, Fr. Jhun, guests, members of the PCC, the construction committee and the rest of the parishioners went straight at the back of the church to witness one of the highlights of the celebration which was the ground breaking ceremony for the construction of the parish sacristy.

Excitement filled the atmosphere as Bishop George started the rites and blessed the place. It was then followed by the ceremonial laying down of the capsule and finally the releasing of color-coded balloons to the air. A dental mission and a short program were done simultaneously afterwards. Around 70 kids and adults benefited the dental mission headed by Ate Tess Barbosa.

The spirit of voluntary service shown by the dentists was admirable. Our heartfelt thanks to Dr. Steve Digal, Dr Arnie Colle, Dr. Maritess & Dr. Ednen Camarillo, Dr. Sally Estorgio all from Panacan and Dr. Salvaleon of Buhangin.

On the other hand, the program was formally opened with the flag raising contest by ministry. Parlor Games were spearheaded by the PSB coordinator, Erwin “Ambong” Padas. Winners were awarded with prizes. A fellowship lunch culminated the day with foods shared per district and door prizes were given away to those who stayed until the end of the program.

Kudos to San Miguel Parish Panacan! To God be the glory forever.

By Ate Neng Lumontod-Pascua/Contributor