Every fiesta is more than a celebration of colors, music, and community—it is a sacred pause in time where faith is renewed, gratitude is deepened, and mission is rekindled. This year’s fiesta theme, invites us to reflect on the source of our strength and the purpose of our discipleship. To be blessed and nourished by Christ is to recognize Him as the center of our lives. In the Eucharist, in His Word, and in the everyday graces we receive, Christ feeds our souls and sustains our journey. Like the early Christians, we gather as one community to be strengthened by His presence—healed by His mercy, enlightened by His truth, and renewed by His love. This nourishment is not meant to be kept for ourselves; it is a gift that transforms us and prepares us for mission. From this encounter with Christ flows our call to be sent on mission. Faith that is alive naturally reaches outward. We are sent to our families, workplaces, schools, and communities to witness to Christ’s love through acts of kindness, justice, compassion, and service. Mission does not always mean going far; often, it means loving deeply where we are planted, becoming signs of hope in ordinary moments. In embracing this mission, we look to St. Stephen, the first martyr, as our model of bold and unwavering faith. Nourished by Christ and filled with the Holy Spirit, St. Stephen proclaimed the Gospel with courage, wisdom, and love—even in the face of persecution. His life reminds us that true faith is courageous, self-giving, and rooted in trust in God. His martyrdom was not a defeat but a powerful testimony that love is stronger than fear and truth triumphs over suffering. As we celebrate this fiesta, may we allow ourselves to be truly blessed and nourished by Christ. May our hearts be set on fire with the same bold faith that moved St. Stephen to give his life for the Gospel. And as one faith-filled community, may we go forth—joyful, courageous, and united—ready to live out our mission and bring Christ to the world through our words, our actions, and our lives. Happy Fiesta Ligao!
Ana Liza L. Revidad, Co-chair PCMC
