Celebrating 75 Years of Faith: The Diamond Jubilee of Sta. Ana Shrine Parish

As Sta. Ana Shrine Parish marked its 75th Parochial Fiesta, the community gathered to celebrate a rich legacy of faith and devotion. This Diamond Jubilee, a symbol of steadfast commitment and enduring spirit, was not only a time for reflection but also a celebration of the vibrant life that had blossomed within the parish. The festivities were filled with religious ceremonies, community activities, and special events, all reflecting the deep bond between the parishioners and their spiritual home.

Key Events and Activities

First Steps in the Faith Journey: The Rite of Baptism

On July 6, the celebration kicked off with “Binyagan sa Parokya,” a beautiful event where infants received the Sacrament of Baptism. This event marked the beginning of a spiritual journey for the youngest members of the church, embraced by the warmth and prayers of the community.

United in Love: Celebrating the Sacrament of Matrimony

On July 13, following the baptismal celebration, couples exchanged vows in the “Kasalan sa Parokya.” This mass wedding ceremony was a testament to love and faith, bringing together couples to start their married life under the blessings of the church.

Strengthened in Faith: The Sacrament of Confirmation

Young parishioners received the Sacrament of Confirmation on July 17, marking their deeper commitment to the Christian faith. This rite was a significant step in their spiritual journey, empowering them with the gifts of the Holy Spirit.

Honoring Faith and Tradition: Simbang Alay and Novena Masses in Celebration of St. Anne

The novena masses were a time-honored tradition, offering prayers and petitions to the saints. These masses, filled with heartfelt hymns and prayers, united the community in spiritual preparation for the feast day. The masses, held in preparation for the upcoming feast day, brought the parish community closer in faith and anticipation for the grand event. A daily noontime devotion, “Simbang Alay kay Maria,” was also held in honor of the parish’s patroness, the mother of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This devotion provided a moment of reflection and prayer, inviting parishioners to deepen their faith.

Cherishing Our Elders: Special Event for the 4th World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly

A special day dedicated to honoring the elderly and grandparents, recognizing their wisdom and contributions to the community, was held on July 20. This celebration was a heartfelt tribute to the senior members of the parish, acknowledging their role in nurturing faith across generations.

On this day, the parish offered a mass to anoint the sick members of the community. Afterwards, a salo-salo was held to give joy to the older members of the community.

A Legacy of Faith: Marking 25 Years of Sta. Ana Parish as a Shrine

Marking a quarter-century since its designation as a shrine, the 5:30 PM Mass celebrated the historic moment when the parish was dedicated as a Diocesan Shrine of Sta. Ana, a place of pilgrimage and spiritual significance.

Visperas Day & Solemn Procession: A Reverent Prelude to the Jubilee Celebration

On the eve of the feast day, after the Holy Mass, the community participated in a solemn procession, a cherished tradition that expressed reverence and devotion. This event was a prelude to the grand celebrations that followed.

A Celebration of Faith: Feast Day Tribute to St. Anne and St. Joachim

The feast day began with a 5:00 AM Cebuano Mass, followed by a 9:30 AM English Mass. At 12:00 NN, Most Rev. Julius S. Tonel, D.D., the Archbishop of Zamboanga, presided over an English Mass, a significant event in the parish’s history. The day concluded with a Pontifical Mass and a GKK & Ministry Night, bringing together the seven zones that belong to the parish in a festive celebration of unity and faith.

Also, the Sta. Ana Shrine Parish celebrated another significant event during this day as the birthday of the esteemed parish priest, Rev. Fr. Jose Junar dela Victoria, which coincided with the Feast Day of St. Anne and St. Joachim, the parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Known for his deep faith and compassionate guidance, Fr. Junar has been a vital figure in our community, fostering a spirit of unity and devotion.

The dual celebration highlighted the importance of family, faith, and spiritual heritage, reminding us of the deep connection between our clergy and the faithful they serve. (Friendcess Joy Aliñar)