St. James brings us closer to Jesus

Davao Archbishop Most Rev. Romulo Valles, D.D. reminded the parishioners of St. James Parish in Bunawan that the celebration of its annual fiesta doesn’t circle on the patron saint but rather to Jesus Christ.

He, however, reiterated that the patron saint is the one who can bring us closer to Jesus.

“This particular devotion of our patron saint, St. James, that we chose as an inspiration of our faith will bring us closer to Jesus. St. James isn’t the center or the highlight but he will bring us closer to Jesus our savior,” the Archbishop said in his homily during the 57th Parochial Fiesta of St. James Parish in Bunawan last July 25.

Abp. Valles also expressed his joy in celebrating the Pontifical Mass as he once again was able to immerse with the lay in the parish.

“I am truly happy to be with you in this annual celebration of faith here in our Catholic Christian community in Bunawan,” he said.

He further said that the Holy Mass is also a time to renew one’s faith.

“Hence, as a yearly event, this traditional fiesta celebration of merrymaking, at the very center of it is out Liturgy. This is not an ordinary festivity but this is a type of celebration that celebrates faith therefore we hold this Eucharistic celebration now,” he explained.

Abp. Valles added that we can only appropriate the truth of this Eucharist that is the presence of God, most especially Jesus who will offer this mass to the Father, if we have a profound faith and an openness to the Lord.