In a heartwarming display of unity, faith, and appreciation, the St. Stephen Protomartyr Parish community gathered for the Thanksgiving and Priest’s Day Celebration—a special night filled with joy, gratitude, and togetherness.
The event, held at The Park View Hotel in Ligao City, brought together parishioners, leaders, and church organizations to honor the selfless service of our beloved priests while giving thanks for the many blessings received throughout the year. The atmosphere radiated warmth, with the hum of cheerful conversations of the attendees setting the tone for a memorable evening.
At the heart of the celebration was the heartwarming message of our parish priest and the recognition of our parish achievements and accomplishments via a video presentation that highlighted the church retablo, parish baptistry, adoration chapel and the one of a kind church sound system—all realized because our parish priest Rev. Fr. Paulo B. Barandon, the shepherd of our spiritual journey—whose dedication and unwavering faith continue to inspire and guide the community.
The thanksgiving and dinner party was made special because of the presence of our beloved Bishop of Legazpi, Most Reverend Bishop Joel Z. Baylon, D.D. who appealed to the attendees to continue supporting the Diocese’s Seminarians and to continue taking care of our priests that they may grow in number and vocations. “Forty (40) priests will be retiring soon. We need to take good care of our priests. We hope and pray to have more priests in the next 25 years in anticipation to the centennial anniversary celebration of our Diocese. We have a shortage of seminarians and the Diocese is working hard to encourage more vocations. We wanted to augment what the Diocese already have”, he said. “It is with sincere and deep appreciation that I express my congratulations for their (the priests) pastoral care, sacramental presence, and tireless service to the parishioners. I appeal to you to support again our One Voice Part II concert which will happen on October 10, 2025 at the Legazpi City Convention Center, which all proceeds shall go directly to our seminary”, he added.
While saxophone is played, guests were then treated to a delightful banquet, where good food became a symbol of shared blessings. The dining experience was a joyful expression of community life—plates full, hearts fuller. From traditional lechon and other favorites to delectable treats, every dish was savored with laughter and stories exchanged around each table.
The night sparkled not just with the sound of applause from the guests when Fr. Pau’s soulful voice echoed in the venue, as the Official Music Sheet for the 75th Anniversary of the Diocese of Legazpi Jubilee Theme Song, 75 Taon nin Pagbaklay was played, but because of his amazing talent and wit that captivates the heart of the audience.
The dinner party underscored the celebration’s spirit—a community alive in faith and fellowship. The presence of the Parochial Vicars – Rev. Fr. Cipriano M. Ante, Rev. Fr. Eugene U. Floriano, Rev. Fr. Anthony Pabon, together with the Parish Pastoral Council and the Executive Committee added colors to the event.
Above all, the event was a beautiful reminder of what binds us together: gratitude for the gift of vocation, a shared table, and a faith that finds expression in every smile, every prayer, and every gesture of kindness.
As the evening ended, hearts were full and spirits uplifted (and of course, concert tickets sold). The Thanksgiving and Priest’s Day Celebration was more than just an event—it was a living testament to the power of community, the beauty of gratitude, and the immeasurable value of those who lead us in faith.
-Ana Liza L. Revidad Co-chair – Parish Commission on Media and Communications
