On December 7, 2024, the Holy Rosary Parish Church in Angeles City was the site of a grand Solemn Eucharistic Celebration and the dedication of its newly reconstructed church and altar. The significant event was presided over by Most Rev. Charles John Brown, D.D., the Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines, highlighting the church’s importance as a place of faith and community. Joining him were Most Rev. Florentino G. Lavarias, D.D., Archbishop of San Fernando, Pampanga, and Most Rev. Paciano B. Aniceto, D.D., Archbishop-Emeritus of San Fernando, Pampanga, further underscoring the event’s religious and cultural significance.
The dedication ceremony commemorated the completion of the church’s restoration following severe damage caused by the earthquake that struck in April 2019. The event was a symbol of resilience and the unyielding faith of the parish community, which rallied together to make the reconstruction a reality. The gathering was marked by hymns, prayers, and reflections that filled the church with an air of solemnity and celebration.
The presence of high-ranking church officials, including the Apostolic Nuncio, demonstrated the importance of the Holy Rosary Parish as not just a place of worship but a pillar of the community. The dedication was a testament to the enduring spirit of the parishioners, who, through shared faith and unity, were able to overcome the challenges posed by the natural disaster. It also served to inspire parishioners and attendees, reminding them of the strength that comes from faith and communal support.
During the celebration, Most Rev. Charles John Brown blessed the altar and consecrated the church, underscoring its significance as a sacred space for prayer and worship. The act of dedication emphasized the church’s role as a sanctuary and center for spiritual growth, where people come together in devotion and unity. The event was more than a commemoration; it was a spiritual renewal for the parish and a symbol of the community’s commitment to nurturing their faith.
Archbishop Florentino Lavarias and Archbishop-Emeritus Paciano Aniceto also took part in the celebration, sharing in the solemnity and expressing their joy at witnessing the church’s reopening. The occasion highlighted the enduring importance of faith as a foundation for community resilience and social connection. Their participation reinforced the message that the church, as a symbol of spiritual and communal life, holds an essential place in the hearts of the people of Angeles City and Pampanga.
The Eucharistic celebration brought together parishioners, local officials, and members of the community, all coming together to mark this milestone. The air was filled with gratitude and a shared sense of achievement as those present reflected on the journey that brought them to this day. It was a reminder of how collective faith and determination can lead to renewal and hope even after adversity.
As Angeles City moves forward, the dedication of the Holy Rosary Parish Church stands as a testament to the city’s deep-rooted devotion and resilience. With the church now restored and the altar blessed, the parish continues to be a beacon of faith and community. The message “Ad Iesum per Mariam” (To Jesus through Mary) echoes as a guiding principle for the community, reinforcing their bond with their spiritual heritage and looking forward to a future of continued growth and unity.
Source: Holy Rosary Parish – Pisamban Maragul
