Mati Bishop marks 25th year in priesthood

MATI CITY — The silent Tuesday afternoon of April 30 in San Nicolas de Tolentino Cathedral, here has become a solemn avenue to celebrate the 25 years of priestly life of their prelate.

Bishop of Mati Abel Apigo opted to celebrate his silver anniversary on that day though the actual anniversary was last April 18.

Classmates who have celebrated their 25th year in the priesthood this year joined the new bishop in thanking the Lord for those years of serving Him through their priestly life.

Fr. Rene Retardo, Bp. Apigo’s classmate and rector of St. Francis Xavier Regional Major Seminary of Mindanao delivered his homily during the Eucharistic celebration.

He said that Bishop Apigo’s role as bishop is to establish unity among the flock — to be instruments of communion.

He added that the bishop plays a big role among the clergy who can only perform their ministry if they always recognize the role of the Holy Spirit in their priesthood.

He also asked the guests from Davao and lay faithful of Mati to continue praying for their shepherds so that they may become consistent and forgiving.