Igniting Priestly Vocations: The Immaculate Conception Parish’s Legacy

For decades, the Immaculate Conception Parish (ICP) in Mintal, Davao City, has been a beacon of faith, inspiring countless young men to answer the call to the priesthood. Recently, this legacy was celebrated in a gathering organized by Mr. Marcelino “Jun” Escalada, a former seminarian, at the Hacienda Torrentira in Balengaeng, Tugbok, Davao City. This event brought together clergies, former seminarians, and present seminarians from the St. Francis Xavier Seminaries in Catalunan Grande, Davao City, to reconnect, share their experiences, and reaffirm their commitment to support and promote vocations to the priesthood.

Uncovering the Vibrant History of Immaculate Conception Parish

Nestled in the heart of Mintal, Davao City, the Immaculate Conception Parish boasts a rich and captivating history that stretches back to the early days of the region. In a time when Davao was known as the “Land of Promise,” this area was a hub of Japanese agricultural investments, giving rise to a diverse array of businesses. Amidst this predominantly Nippon community, a small but determined group of Christian Catholics from the Visayan Islands and Luzon came together to build their first chapel, dedicating it to the revered figure of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception. The chapel was built on the very site where the Japanese Hospital once stood. Today, with Rev. Fr. Johnny Autida, Parish Priest, the Immaculate Conception Parish stands as a living embodiment of the community’s enduring faith and commitment to their religious traditions.

Celebrating the Legacy of Priestly Formation

On May 31, 2024, the “Himamat ug Pagpasalamat 2024” gathering was held. The event was organized by Mr. Marcelino “Jun” Escalada from batch 1984, of the SFXCS who was assisted by a core group consisting of former seminarians from different batches, including Rene Real (batch 1981), Cipriano “Loloy” Genosas (batch 1984), Levi Jusayan (batch 1984), George Martinez (batch 1986), Ivan Alcarde (batch 2023), and Jan Bryan Bancaya (batch 2023). This event brought together 41 attendees from different generations, showcasing the enduring legacy of priestly formation within the parish. The gathering provided an opportunity for the attendees to reconnect, reminisce about their seminary days, and strengthen their bonds with fellow seminarians.

Impact and Legacy

The Immaculate Conception Parish continues to be a significant force in the spiritual lives of its parishioners. The parish’s dedication to priestly formation has resulted in a long line of dedicated priests who have served the community with devotion and commitment. The recent gathering showed that the parish has already produced the following:

• 3 Monsignors: Msgr. Edgar Labagala, Msgr. Julius Rodolfa, Msgr. Paul Cuison
• 10 Priests: Fr. Jasper Louise Alfeche, Fr. Cirilo Bermudez, Fr. Efren Gubac, Jr., Fr. Ricky Montero , Fr. Michael Ondras Jr., Fr. Engelbert Patriarca, Fr. Arnel Tadeo, Fr. Agustin Paunon, Fr. Louie Cris Gregorio, Fr. Roger Dela Cerna Cabillo
• 96 former seminarians
• 3 present seminarians in college
• 1 theologian: Bro. Perry Neil Patayon (recently graduated, Cum Laude)

Conclusion

The Immaculate Conception Parish is a shining example of the power of faith and dedication. The parish’s commitment to priestly formation has resulted in a rich tradition of spiritual growth and service, with numerous priests having been formed and nurtured within its walls. The recent gathering of clergies, former and present seminarians is a wonderful reminder to the enduring legacy of the parish and its continued influence on the lives of its parishioners. (Levi Jusayan, St. Francis Seminary, batch 1984)