The old rectory of St. Stephen the Protomartyr Parish has stood beside the church for more than fifty years, serving faithfully as the residence of our parish priests and parochial vicar through the decades. During the time of the former parish priest, Monsignor Fr. Tronqued, a new rectory was constructed to better serve the needs of the clergy. With this development, the old rectory ceased to function as a residence and was later utilized as a stock room.
Years later, an unfortunate incident occurred when a fire broke out in one of the rooms of the old rectory—specifically the former room of the parish priest, which by then was being used for storage. The fire was caused by an electrical problem. Firefighters from different cities and municipalities promptly responded and worked together to contain the fire. By God’s grace, no lives were harmed, and the fire was confined to that single room. However, the incident affected the entire structure, as smoke blackened the walls and water used in firefighting caused additional damage.
Recognizing the condition of the building and guided by a vision to maximize parish spaces, our current Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Paulo B. Barandon, decided to remove all the internal divisions of the old rectory, which previously consisted of four separate rooms. From the damage and ruins emerged a renewed purpose—to transform the old rectory into a fully air-conditioned parish hall that would serve as an additional facility for the growing needs of St. Stephen the Protomartyr Parish.
The realization of this project was made possible through the parish fundraising initiative entitled “Hang a Star, Share a Blessing.” Through this project, the parish sold stars in different colors and corresponding prices, symbolizing the generosity and shared blessings of the faithful. These stars were then hung on the parish Christmas tree during the Offertory Masses, allowing parishioners to meaningfully participate in the mission of rebuilding and renewal. The funds generated from this initiative greatly contributed to the construction and transformation of the old rectory into the new parish hall. Through dedication, collective effort, and God’s providence, the renovation was successfully completed.
The former rectory now stands renewed as the St. Stephen Parish Hall—a powerful symbol of transformation, resilience, and new beginnings. Most fittingly, the completion of this project coincided with the Feast of our Patron Saint, St. Stephen the Protomartyr.
On this joyful occasion, the priests gathered for Clergy Night, offering thanksgiving to God for His guidance and abundant blessings upon our parish. Indeed, what was once damaged by fire has been restored with purpose—now serving as a place of gathering, fellowship, and service, all for the greater glory of God and the continuing mission of St. Stephen the Protomartyr Parish.
Daylinda S Pobre SSPP Patroller
