This evening, April 16, 2025, the parish community of St. Stephen the Protomartyr came together to commemorate the sacrifice and devotion of our Lord Jesus Christ, utilizing the revered image of the Black Nazarene graciously provided by the family of the late Ex Mayor Max Peralta. Immediately after the last Mass (5:15 – 6:15 PM), the faithful gathered for a meaningful Grand Penitential Way of the Cross, led by Rev. Fr. Paulo B. Barandon, Parish priest, Rev. Fr. Fernando Rodriguez, Parochial vicar, Fr. Eugene Floriano, Parochial vicar, Rev. Deacon John Bosco Juacian, Bro. Seminarian Acquime Magas, together with the Commission on Worship members as narrator.
The procession began with the altar servers, followed by the priests, the narrator, the parishioners, and the image of the Black Nazarene carried by devoted followers. The solemn procession followed the traditional route used during Biernes Santo (Good Friday), marking the 14 Stations of the Cross. Participants stopped to reflect on the passion and death of our Lord Jesus Christ. One of the most powerful moments of the Grand Penitential Way of the Cross was the 3rd Station, “Jesus falls for the first time.” This station reminds us of the weight of sin and suffering that Jesus bore for our sake.
Notably, Rev. Fr. Paulo B. Barandon walked barefoot alongside other parishioners and devotees as a sign of sacrifice and penance, symbolizing the suffering and humility of Christ. This act of devotion serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of self-denial and sacrifice in our spiritual journey.
As we gathered for this solemn procession, many homes were illuminated with candles, symbolizing the light of Christ that shines in our hearts. This simple yet powerful gesture reminded us that even in darkness, the light of faith can guide us.
The Grand Penitential Way of the Cross, which began last year in place of the traditional Wednesday Santo procession, has become a meaningful way for our parish community to commemorate the Passion and Death of Jesus Christ. This devotion was a powerful reminder of the importance of faith, compassion, and unity within our community, deeply rooted in the strong Catholic tradition of the Filipino people, particularly here in Ligao City, Albay, Bicol Region.
We are grateful for the unwavering support and pastoral care of our Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Paulo B. Barandon, and the dedication of Rev. Fr. Fernando, Rev. Fr. Eugene, Rev. Deacon John Bosco Juacian, and Bro. Seminarian Acquime Magas, a Philosophy student at Mater Salutis College Seminary, as well as the active participation of our Commission on Worship and parishioners, who made this devotion possible. May the reflection on Christ’s Passion continue to inspire us to live out our faith with courage, love, and service.
Chona A. Pintor
Parokya Patroller
