Archbishop Valles Concluded Pastoral Visit to St. Jude Thaddeus Shrine Parish

The St. Jude Thaddeus Shrine Parish recently experienced a meaningful three-day pastoral visit from Archbishop Romulo G. Valles, D.D. held from April 4 to 6, 2025. This event fostered spiritual connection, reinforced community ties, and facilitated important dialogue about the parish’s future.

The Archbishop’s schedule was packed with well-organized activities designed to connect him with various parts of the parish, from Gagmay’ng Kristohanong Katilingban (GKKs) and other mandated organizations.

Day One

The visit began on the afternoon of April 4 with a lively motorcade that traveled from Rizal Memorial Colleges (RMC) to St. Jude Shrine Parish. This provided a public and heartfelt welcome for Archbishop Valles, with students and faculty from parish-affiliated schools like RMC, Wireless Elementary, University of Immaculate Conception, and Davao Doctor’s College, participating, highlighting the strong link between the church and its educational outreach.

Later, a Holy Eucharist at the Parish Church brought together the Archbishop, clergy, and members from all 29 GKKs, mandated organizations, and devotees of St Jude in a shared expression of faith. This was followed by a dinner at Capalla Hall, encouraging fellowship between the Parish Pastoral Council (PPC) and the dedicated GKK Servant Leaders (GSLs). The evening concluded with a productive dialogue where the Archbishop and these leaders shared experiences and insights to further improve the parish’s GKKs and plan for the future.

Day Two

On the second day, Archbishop Valles extended his visit to the GKK San Isidro Labrador in Bankerohan. Another motorcade preceded this, emphasizing the importance of reaching out to different communities within the parish.

A significant Holy Mass was celebrated at GKK San Isidro Labrador, providing a spiritual focal point for the Archbishop’s interaction with the Catholic community in Bankerohan and neighboring GKKs.

The evening offered a more relaxed setting for interaction and understanding during a dinner for the GSLs and members of GKK San Isidro Labrador at Balay Pasilungan. This was followed by a welcoming gathering (“Abi-abi”) specifically aimed at building positive relationships with the GKK SIL members.

Day Three

The final day focused on internal parish matters. It began with a Holy Mass at St. Jude Parish, setting a spiritual tone for the day’s activities.

Following Mass, Archbishop Valles engaged in important dialogues. He first met with the parish priest, Rev. Fr. Roy F. Mejias, DCD, likely focusing on pastoral issues and the overall direction of the parish. This was followed by the parish’s dedicated Office staff, giving them a chance to share their concerns and suggestions. It was an intimate dialogue. The morning also included the formal signing of the Canonical Books, a key administrative task.

The pastoral visit concluded with a Solidarity Lunch at Capalla Hall, bringing together the Archbishop, priests, and office staff in a spirit of fellowship and shared commitment before his departure.

The success of this significant pastoral visit would not have been possible without the dedicated efforts of many individuals. The parish extends its sincere gratitude to the Parish Pastoral Council (PPC) for their leadership and tireless work in planning and coordinating all aspects of the Archbishop’s visit. Furthermore, heartfelt thanks are due to all the dedicated volunteers and individuals working behind the scenes – from logistics and hospitality to communications and spiritual preparations – whose selfless contributions ensured the smooth and meaningful flow of each day. Their commitment and generosity were instrumental in making Archbishop Valles’ visit a truly enriching experience for the entire St. Jude Thaddeus Shrine Parish community. (Jeralyn Babet Adegue-Palero | St Jude Shrine Parish SocCom Coordinator)