SFDA Parish PPC, EXECOM, Unites for Environmental Stewardship in Tree Planting Activity

San Francisco de Asis Parish took a significant step towards environmental conservation on Saturday, August 17, 2024, with a tree-planting activity organized by the Pangulo sa Alagad (PSA) at Barangay Sirib—Bagobo Klata Toh Ancestral Domain. This initiative, which drew over 30 participants from the Parish Pastoral Council (PPC) and the Parish Executive Committee (EXECOm), is a testament to the commitment of the parish to caring for creation.

The day began with a solemn Holy Mass at 6:45 AM. This was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Mario Holmina, OSJ, parish priest of San Francisco de Asis Parish. During the homily, Fr. Holmina emphasized that the activity served as both a blessing for the participants and a reminder of the spiritual significance of their work. Following the Mass, the group proceeded to the tree-planting areas, where they planted tree seedlings, symbolizing a new chapter in the environmental advocacy of the parish.

Jemarie Casildo, coordinator of the Pangulo sa Alagad, highlighted the importance of this event in the broader context of environmental stewardship. “Importante ni nga aktibidad kay naga-promote ta og care for mother nature, nga mao pud ang buhat sa atong patron nga si San Francisco,” Casildo stated.

She further noted that the Archdiocese of Davao has been actively encouraging parishes to engage in similar activities, aligning with the Church’s mission to protect and preserve the environment. “Kini garbo usab sa atong parokya nga napatupad ini nga tree-planing activity,” she added.

The participation of the Bagobo Klata tribe added a layer of cultural and spiritual depth to the event. Datu Rosalito Anog, the Tribal Chieftain of the Bagobo Klata Tribe, expressed gratitude for the parish’s efforts in preserving the land that is so integral to their community’s heritage. “Kining tanan [kinaiyahan] hatag sa Ginoo, ato dapat nga ipreserba ug dili panamastamasan.” Datu Anog emphasized. He further pointed out the lasting impact of the activity, stating that the four minutes spent planting a seedling could yield 400 years of protection and care for future generations.

Fr. Holmina also expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the parishioners and the tribal community for their participation. He noted that this activity is part of the preparations for the parish’s upcoming 25th Parochial Fiesta, which celebrates the life and virtues of their patron, Saint Francis of Assisi.

As the seedlings take root in the ancestral land, the PPC members and EXECOM officers of San Francisco de Asis Parish look forward to a future where these trees stand as a living testament to their commitment to environmental stewardship. They are hopeful that one day, these seedlings will bring prosperity, care, and protection to all people, just as Saint Francis of Assisi envisioned.

This tree-planting activity serves as a reminder that the simple act of planting a tree can have far-reaching benefits, not only for the environment but also for the spiritual and cultural heritage of the community. (Jeffren Miguel)