Honoring the Missionaries Who Built Our Faith

The DADITAMA bishops celebrated the rich history of evangelization in the subregion as Most Rev. Guillermo V. Afable, DD, Most Rev. Abel C. Apigo, DD, and Most Rev. Medil S. Aseo, DD visited several missionary societies in Canada last June 18-22, 2024 to express their gratitude for the missionaries dedicated service.

The bishops began their journey by visiting the PME General House, where they honored the dedicated PME missionaries who have served the Davao Region. The visit commenced with a mass to give thanks for the missionaries’ tireless service and to pray for those who have passed away. The bishops presented Plaques of Appreciation to the living PME Fathers, recognizing their invaluable contributions to the Church. This moment was particularly meaningful for the bishops, who were all baptized by PME missionaries, highlighting the deep, personal connections formed through faith and service.

Following this, the bishops honored the Maryknoll Missionaries, who have been instrumental in advancing the Catholic faith in Tagum and Mati since the late 1950s. Taking over from the PME Fathers, the Maryknoll Missionaries established numerous parishes and schools, significantly impacting the local communities. The bishops conveyed the gratitude of the local churches during a Eucharistic celebration. The Maryknoll Superior General, Fr. Lance Nadeau, MM, and his Council warmly received the bishops, with Fr. Clyde Phillips, MM, providing a tour of the General House. The event, organized by Fr. Bill LaRousse, MM, was a heartfelt tribute to the missionaries’ enduring legacy.

The final visit was to the Missionaries of the Immaculate Conception (MIC) Sisters’ Generalate. The bishops praised the MIC Sisters for their unwavering commitment to education and pastoral work in Davao, Digos, and Mati. The General Council of the MIC Sisters welcomed the bishops warmly, and both parties exchanged kind words, reflecting on their shared mission to spread God’s word. The MIC Sisters’ efforts, such as managing the Immaculate Heart of Mary Academy in Mati and the MIC Retreat House in Davao, have left a lasting impact on the community, fostering both spiritual and educational growth.

This series of visits accentuated the deep gratitude felt by the bishops and the wider community for the pioneering missionaries who have shaped the Catholic faith in the DADITAMA region. Through their tireless dedication and love, these missionaries have built a lasting legacy that continues to touch countless lives.