Hope and Devotion at the 107th Sr. San Vicente Ferrer

Viva Sr. San Vicente!

This was the jubilant shout of the people, especially the devotees who celebrated the feast at the Sr. San Vicente Ferrer Shrine in Mulig, Toril, on April 5, 2025. This event marked the 107th fiesta celebration and the 7th anniversary since its declaration as an Archdiocesan Shrine. It was both joyful and humbling to witness the large number of people who came together to celebrate the feast. The attendees were not only from Davao but also from various places across Mindanao.

Most Rev. Romulo Valles, Archbishop of Davao, led the Pontifical Mass at 9:00 AM. He expressed his great joy in presiding over the Holy Mass and in seeing the large crowd that gathered. He remarked that the event was a reminder of the theme of our Church’s celebration this year, “Pilgrims of Hope.” Like a pilgrimage, we step out of our comfort zones to experience peace and encounter God through the intercession of St. Vicente Ferrer. On this journey, we meet and experience Someone greater than ourselves, and that Someone provides a fulfillment that surpasses what we have today. All of us are on a journey—not just toward Mulig Toril, where the shrine is located, but toward a more desired place, which is heaven.

During the celebration, Rev. Fr. Anthony Silvosa, Parish Priest of Virgen Delos Remedios Parish, which oversees the GKK of Sr. San Vicente Ferrer Shrine, was also present. In a conversation with Mrs. Jocelyn Eeleccion, a catechist of the GKK, she shared that their community was filled with joy as they prepared for this feast. She noted that the cooperation and collaboration between the barangay leaders and the GKK were evident. She further mentioned that this reflected their theme, “Faithful Pilgrims, Bearers of Hope.” As a community welcoming the devotees of Sr. San Vicente Ferrer, they, too, are pilgrims—not only moving physically but also carrying hope to those who visit the Shrine.

All in all, the celebration was a great reminder of the strength of faith and the power of community. It was truly inspiring to witness how, even after 7 years since its declaration as an Archdiocesan Shrine, the place continues to gather people in deep devotion and gratitude. This event not only honored Sr. San Vicente Ferrer but also highlighted the importance of coming together in prayer, unity, and shared hope. It was a deeply humbling experience, reflecting on how faith has the power to unite us all in a common purpose. (Sem. Roldan Baliano)