Diocese of Mati celebrates Year of the Clergy and Consecrated Persons and the feast of Jean Marie Vianney

The Diocese of Mati celebrates the Year of the Clergy and Consecrated Persons in the occasion of feast of Jean Marie Vianney last August 4, 2018. Bishop Abel C. Apigo, DD., together with the priests in charge decided to have the very first joined celebrations with the consecrated persons on August 6, 2018.

The first part of the program began at the Davao Oriental Provincial Jail in Tagbubulo, City of Mati wherein, confession was conducted and Sr. Florita L. Galido, MIC gave a catechism to the inmates. Sr. Galido emphasized that despite of the current position of these inmates, they are loved and cared by God in the persons of Bishop, priests of the diocese, consecrated persons, and lay leaders who came along for this service. A holy mass was concelebrated and the mass celebrant is Bishop Apigo himself. A simple lunch was served for everyone.

Fun and exciting activities at the second part of the celebration as the religious men and women gather together at the Clergy House for some games. Engaging activities like basketball, table tennis, and badminton were participated by the diocesan and few of the religious men and women. These recreations and exertion aim everyone to be united people of God and continue to serve with enthusiasm.

At sunset, everyone gathered together to offer an evening prayer at the Clergy House chapel. A short program took place at the open court where Bishop Apigo, who initiated and led the celebration, extended his gratitude to all of the religious men and women who participated on the said events. In the speech of Fr. Antonio O. Nombrefia, OSA, he encouraged everyone to continue become bearers of Gospel, strive guiding and inspiring the youth, and value Christian family. A pleasant dinner was served and song numbers were rendered by some priests and bands.

Indeed, the celebration was successful and its purposes were fully realized.

Diocesan Council of Lay Apostolates & Integral Movements (DCLAIM) officers was sent off by Bishop Abel C. Apigo, DD in this said occasion. (Sr. Florita L. Galido, MIC)