Two Celebrations in One

Parishioners of St. James the Apostle Parish, Bunawan, Davao City, celebrated the Easter Sunday of the Lord’s Resurrection and the Closing of the Holy Door, as one of the Jubilee Churches in the Archdiocese of Davao that was chosen to commemorate the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines on April 17, 2022, at 4:30PM. It is believed that entering the Sacred Door and Jubilee Churches is analogous to making a journey to a holy place and that it has both spiritual and pastoral significance. The celebration was presided by the Archbishop of Davao, Most Rev. Romulo G. Valles, D.D. and concelebrated with the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Rolando O. Mandreza, D.C.D.

During his homily, he emphasized that the Holy Doors were created as a year-long celebration with Pope Francis’ approval, allowing the chosen parishes to establish their own Holy Doors. As a result, St. James the Apostle Parish was chosen as one of the Archdiocese of Davao’s churches, for which parishioners should be grateful. Having the sacred door open that indicates gratitude. It is our shared faith that binds us together. He also emphasized points from the first readings from Acts of the Apostles, which depict the basic essence of humanity, which he equates to a door or portal that offers us commemorations of how God loves us and that God’s love is clearly demonstrated by giving us His only son for His people.

Lastly, the Archbishop’s joy can be seen on his face as he conveyed his appreciation and gratitude to the parish priest and his parishioners, especially since he witnessed a large number of young people serving and celebrating the mass. He also underlined the need for adults to train and pass on their experiences and faith to the youth so that they continue to cherish the faith, as seen by the Lord’s resurrection. (Ervie Ghen B. Pelderos)