A Day of Grace and Gratitude: Parish Celebrates Thanksgiving Mass of Rev. Fr. Ivan Euleses V. Obeal, OSJ

San Francisco de Asis Parish overflowed with joy and thanksgiving last Saturday, July 19, 2025, as the parish community gathered for the Thanksgiving Mass of Rev. Fr. Ivan Euleses V. Obeal, OSJ, the newly ordained son of the parish and the latest pride of the local faithful.

Ordained to the Sacred Priesthood last June 24, 2025, at the Santuario de San Jose Parish in Greenhills, Rev. Fr. Ivan returned to his home parish to celebrate his first Mass of Thanksgiving among the people who nurtured his vocation, supported his journey, and prayed with him through the years. The celebration, which began at 9:30 in the morning, was filled with solemnity, cultural vibrancy, and a deep sense of communal pride.

In a powerful display of brotherhood and support, Fr. Ivan was joined by fellow newly ordained priests, Rev. Fr. Jim Brent Lacdao and Rev. Fr. Kenneth G. Bautista, adding more joy to the occasion. The presence of the Provincial Superior of the Oblates of Saint Joseph, together with a delegation of OSJ priests, further elevated the significance of the celebration, marking it not only as a personal milestone but also as a memorable chapter in the life of the parish.

The celebration began with a vibrant cultural presentation from the Joseph Marello Youth, showcasing the colorful and diverse heritage of Davao City. Dancers in native attire told stories of faith, identity, and tradition which depicts a beautiful prelude to the sacred rites that followed. The Mass was a heartfelt offering of gratitudec to God, to the people, and to the Church.

Following the Eucharistic celebration, the whole parish community gathered in fellowship, partaking in a bountiful feast prepared through the generosity and unity of parishioners and lay organizations. The spirit of “pagsaulog ug pagpasalamat” was palpable in every table shared, every laughter exchanged, and every story told.

Fr. Ivan now joins the ranks of two other beloved sons of the parish who responded to the call to the priesthood: Rev. Fr. Ryan Mullon (ordained 2017) and Rev. Fr. Alfie Polistico (ordained 2018). As the third ordained priest from San Francisco de Asis Parish, his journey serves as both an inspiration and a reminder that vocations are born and nurtured in communities where faith is lived and shared.

Indeed, July 19 was more than just a date on the calendar, for it was a day of grace, a celebration of faith, and a testament to God’s abiding presence in the life of a community that continues to pray, support, and believe in the power of vocation. (Jeffren P. Miguel | San Francisco De Asis Parish Tagakpan SoCCom)