In a spirit of fraternity and missionary openness, Fr. Edgar S. Martinez, OFMCap., Provincial Minister of the Capuchin Philippine Province, together with Br. Joenifer Ygonia, OFMCap and Br. Valentine Gompok, OFMCap. recently visited the Roman Catholic Diocese of Daet upon the gracious invitation of Bishop Herman G. Abcede, R.C.J., D.D. The Bishop warmly expressed his desire for the Capuchin friars to establish a presence in the Sabang, Vinzons, Camarines Norte as part of the continuing mission of the Church in the local vineyard of the Lord.
As a gesture of his sincere welcome, Bishop Abcede personally accompanied our brothers to St. Paul Quasi Parish in Sabang, Vinzons, Camarines Norte, where he introduced him to Rev. Fr. Ronald Bardon, Parish Priest of San Roque Parish, Tabas Paracale, Camarines Norte who is the Administrator of the St. Paul Quasi Parish, together with the members of the Parish Pastoral Council. Also present during the gathering were the Barangay Captain and the former Mayor of the municipality, whose encouraging presence brought support and openness of the local community to the possible Capuchin mission.
The visit was followed by a simple yet meaningful lunch together, which created an atmosphere of fraternity and warm conversation. Bishop Abcede proved to be very supportive, accommodating, approachable, and truly down-to-earth. With great enthusiasm, he expressed his hope that the Capuchins would accept the invitation and begin a new mission in the Diocese of Daet.
Indeed, the people of Sabang are looking forward with hope and anticipation to the presence of the Capuchin friars among them. As this invitation unfolds, we continue to entrust this possibility to prayer and discernment, hoping that a new chapter of service in the Lord’s vineyard may soon begin.
