Jubilee of Mercy memories in Digos

The Jubilee of Mercy commenced last December 8 of 2015, a day of Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary and concluded last November 20, 2016, the Solemnity of our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe.

When the Holy Father opened the Holy Door in St. Peter’s Basilica, he said during the press conferences afterwards that he strongly desires that this jubilee celebration of mystery is to be lived out in the daily lives of the faithful, and all who turn to God for compassion, love and mercy.

The couple of weeks prior to the closing of the Holy Doors, Catholic Church around the world has prepared for this symbolic and significant event.

The Diocese of Digos closed the Door of Mercy last November 18, 2016 where thousands gathered at San Isidro Parish in Digos City to witness it. They joined the long procession to Mary Mediatrix parish where the closing of the Holy Door is to take place and the Eucharistic celebration be held.

After these memorable events, I interviewed some priests, church authorities and lay Catholics to express their final message and sentiments:

“Masirhan man ang pultahan sa Kaluoy apan magpadayon ang pagpadayag niini. Unta mapadayon sa mga katawhan ang pagka matuohon sa gugma ug sa kaluoy sa Diyos nga kanunay nagapadayag sa iyang kaluoy.” – Fr. Alan Joie Nunez, DCD – SoCCom Director

“The Holy door will close shortly, but God’s grace and mercy remains open”. – Fr. Rogelio Albite, DCD

“Even if the Holy Door closes, let us bear in mind that the mercy and forgiveness of God will remain.” – Fr. Rico Dingal, JCL

“Even after the door closes, I hope that the people of God continue to radiate the face of mercy, the face of Jesus Christ.” – Bro. Leonard Rabuya

“The door of mercy will close soon but the love of Jesus Christ will continue. It does not end here. After this journey, we continue the love Christ.” – Sr. Johanna Bernabe, OSB

“After this significant event, we all go back home with Christ who lives in us. We continue to be an example in witnessing, sharing Christ to others. The core is to show ourselves to Jesus Christ so that we can show Jesus Christ to others through us”. – Fr. Kim Cossid, DCD

“We go home; we continue rejoicing in God’s mercy and goodnes.” – Fr. Ronald Masilang, Rogationist

“We hope that the lessons we learned throughout this journey will be embodied in our hearts para matuhop ug mapuy an ang mga pagtulun-an.” – Mr. Edwin Matas

(Blaze Cantaros | SUGID, Sta. Cruz)