‘De Navigatione’ Exhibit Launching

Marking a significant milestone in the history of the Archdiocese of Davao, the Archdiocesan Commission on Cultural heritage, in partnership with the Holy Cross of Davao College (HCDC), launched its first exhibit for the 75th Diamond Jubilee Celebration of the Archdiocese of Davao on June 20, 2024, at the HCDC campus.

With the title “De Navigatione” or “On the Navigation” the exhibit takes you on a journey through the history of the evangelization in the archdiocese with the arrival of the first missionaries in Davao. The exhibit has old liturgical vessels and vestments used during the mission in Davao on display.

According to the Director of the Archdiocesan Commission on Cultural Heritage of the Church, Rev. Fr. Russell Bantiles, the exhibit serves as a revival of the spirit of commemorating the efforts of the first missionaries, and an expression of gratitude to God for having them bring the Catholic faith to Davao.

“The exhibit hopes to put in our mind(s) — to revive our memory so that when we can remember them, our hearts will be filled with gratitude. And when our hearts are filled with gratitude, we will praise God — we will raise our praising and thanksgiving to God,” said Rev. Fr. Bantiles.

The launching of the exhibit was attended by many pristine guests, including the archbishop himself, Most Rev. Romulo G. Valles, D.D. Holy Cross College of Davao President Bro. Noelvic H. Deloria, and the University of Immaculate Conception President, Sister Maria Marissa R. Viri, RVM.

The De Navigatione Exhibit in HCDC is the first of many exhibits to happen for the Archdiocese Diamond Jubilee celebration, as arrangements are made for other exhibitions to pop up in other venues, especially schools, with the culmination happening on November at NCCC Mall Victoria Plaza.

The various exhibits will showcase the contributions of the different religious congregations and Catholic schools in the evangelization of Davao. (Alessandro V. Millabe | AdDU Intern)