The feast day of Padre Pio was celebrated on September 23, 2024, with great devotion and enthusiasm. The day featured three Eucharistic Celebrations, conducted by brothers from different fraternities. It concluded with a vibrant procession before the last Mass, where we shared our devotion with the barangay San Sebastian.
Eucharistic Celebrations
6:30 AM – Celebrated by Fr. Antonio Yapchiongco, OFMCap.
Fr. Antonio opened the day with a reflection on Padre Pio’s simplicity. He emphasized that while many admire Padre Pio for his holiness and the confessions he performed, his greatest virtue was his obedience to God. He shared that the true fruit of our faith in God is love and hope, encouraging attendees to embody these values in their daily lives.
10:00 AM – Celebrated by Fr. Eugene Lopez, OFMCap.
Fr. Eugene spoke on the importance of having direction in life. He highlighted how a person can easily lose their way if they are not mindful of their path. His message resonated with many, reminding everyone to seek guidance and clarity in their spiritual journeys.
5:00 PM – Celebrated by Fr. Jeffrey Torres, OFMCap.
The final Mass of the day was led by Fr. Jeffrey, who focused on love and the significance of reflecting on the 25 years of the CRC’s existence. He encouraged the congregation to look back on their journey with gratitude and to find strength in Christ, especially during times of weariness.
Each Mass concluded with a joyful gathering where devotees enjoyed a meal together, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among participants.
At 4:00 PM, the festivities continued with a procession around the barangay. The faithful carried the statue of Padre Pio, celebrating his legacy and sharing their devotion with the wider community.
Overall, the Padre Pio Feast was a meaningful and uplifting experience for all attendees. It was filled with reflection, fellowship, and a renewed commitment to living out the virtues exemplified by Padre Pio.