Diocese of Mati celebrates 36 years of God’s amazing grace

February 15, 2020 was made auspicious with the amazing graces that God had bestowed on the Diocese, from its humble pre-beginnings, to the proliferation of faith, as evident with its 41 priests, and four newly ordained deacons, and physical development with the new Chancery and Pastoral building.

In his homily during the anniversary mass at the San Nicolas de Tolentino Cathedral, Bp. Abel Apigo gave a strong emphasis on remembering the past with gratitude, living the present with enthusiasm, and looking to the future with confidence.

“We must be grateful to all of God’s graces to us, as a church. Included here are the generous people who donated parcels of their properties where our parishes and schools were built. The faces of our local churches could not have been as it is today without their generosity. In serving the Lord, we must show enthusiasm no matter what it takes, we must be enthusiastic in going out, proclaiming and spreading the Good News of salvation. And in serving God, we must be one,” he said.

Bp. Apigo also conveyed his gratitude and gladness that in the Diocese of Mati, the church and the state have maintained a good relation, and he expressed hope that there will be no walls that will divide the church and the state.

He also cited the beautiful foundation laid down by his predecessor, Bishop Emeritus Patricio Alo, who started it all for the diocese.

The striking part of his homily was when he asked the people if they will continue to ride in the ship of faith that he will maneuver together with the Clergy, if they will embark on the ship with him as their captain, of which the people replied a resounding “yes”.

Before the mass ended, the Diocese gave recognition to the cheerful givers who made the erection of the churches and catholic schools possible.

After the mass, the celebration continued with the inauguration and blessing of the new chancery and pastoral building, witnessed by the clergy, donors, benefactors, and diocesan clergy workers.

This was followed by the anniversary program and agape, showcasing the solidarity of the Diocesan Clergy, the remarkable support of the parishioners, and the richness of the history and travails the Diocese.

As the future is still to unravel for the diocese, Bp. Abel stressed that the faithfuls should trust and be confident, and urged everyone to persevere in the walk of faith, after all, Christ never forsakes, as the Father is always true to his covenant. (Neela G. Duallo)