Wayfinding through Faith

In celebration of the 75th anniversary of the Archdiocese of Davao, the University of the Immaculate Conception (UIC) held an exhibit titled “Wayfinding through Uncharted Waters” at the Fr. Selga Main Lobby. The exhibit, which commemorates significant milestones from 1900 to 1948, highlights the historical growth of the Archdiocese and its impact in the community.

The event opened with remarks by University President Sr. Ma. Marissa R. Viri, RVM, who began with a reflection on the biblical story of Peter walking on water from Matthew 14:22-33, drawing parallels between Peter’s faith journey and the historical journey of the Archdiocese. She remarks:

“Just as Peter found his strength in the Lord amid the waves, so too have the Archdiocese of Davao and UIC found their strength in the Lord through these uncharted waters. From the early days of Mother Ignacia’s small community to the mission of the RVM Sisters in Davao, we are a living testament to faith, courage, and resilience.”

Her address highlighted how, with God’s guidance, the Catholic education in Davao, founded by the RVM Sisters, strengthened the faith of the people and nurtured the Catholic Church in the region.

Among the distinguished attendees were His Excellency Most Rev. Romulo G. Valles, D.D., Archbishop of Davao; Archdiocesan Commission on Cultural Heritage of the Church, Director and his Assistant Rev. Fr. Russel Bantiles and Rev. Fr. Amiel Arado; Dr. Pamela Castrillo, Archivist of Ateneo de Davao University; Mr. Rhys Lloyd D. Lacia of the Holy Cross Institute of Davao Studies; Rev. Fr. Ritsche Gamaya, Davao Catholic Herald Managing Director; and representatives from the Davao Historical Society, Davao Catholic Herald and DXGN Spirit FM, RVM Sisters, as well as UIC Vice Presidents and Directors.

The program commenced with a message from the Archdiocese of Davao, delivered by Archbishop Valles. He emphasized that the Church’s mission does not seek rewards and glory—only to bring honor to God.

This was followed by a presentation of UIC’s timeline, which traced the institution’s vital contributions to the region’s academic and spiritual life. Ms. Juris Elore-Sano, University Communication Coordinator of UIC, then elaborated on the event rationale. The official opening of the exhibit was marked by a ribbon-untying ceremony, led by Archbishop Valles; Sr. Ma. Marissa R. Viri, RVM; Rev. Fr. Russell Bantiles, Rev. Fr. Amiel Espiña Arado; and Mr. Rhys Lloyd D. Lacia. Attendees were invited to explore the exhibit, which showcased historical documents and photographs narrating the journey of the Catholic Church in Davao during the early 20th century.

The event concluded with closing remarks by Fr. Amiel Espiña Arado, who emphasized the ongoing legacy of faith, education, and service embodied by the Archdiocese and UIC. (Sheena Kris S. Paypa – Content Writer, UIC Communication Office)