A Celebration of Faith and Unity: 73rd Parochial Fiesta of Our Lady of Fatima Parish

The faithful of Our Lady of Fatima Parish gathered in great joy and thanksgiving as they celebrated their 73rd Parochial Fiesta this October 2025. With the theme “Birhen sa Fatima: Inahan ug Giya diha sa Panaw sa Paglaum” (Our Lady of Fatima: Mother and Guide in the Journey of Hope), the celebration highlighted the enduring devotion of the community to the Blessed Virgin Mary, who continues to inspire hope, faith, and renewal among her children.

The week-long festivities officially began with the novena schedule from October 4 to 12, 2025. Each day was filled with spiritual activities such as the recitation of the Holy Rosary, novena prayers, and daily Masses. Parishioners and devotees came together in prayer, reflecting on Mary’s intercession and her constant guidance in the life of the Church. Sundays featured special novena Masses, allowing families and parish groups to offer their petitions and thanksgiving to Our Lady of Fatima.

In addition to the novena, the parish also organized various community-building activities that strengthened fellowship among parishioners. These included a Zumba exercise and Parish General Cleaning on October 2, demonstrating the parish’s commitment not only to spiritual wellness but also to physical health and environmental care. Youth engagement was equally prioritized through the Youth General Assembly and an E-sports Tournament for Mobile Legends, showcasing how faith and fun can coexist in today’s digital age.

The highlight of the celebration took place on October 13, 2025 on the Fiesta Day, which began with a solemn early morning procession at 4:15 a.m. followed by Halad Awit Kang Maria at 5:30 a.m. The streets were filled with songs and prayers, echoing the community’s devotion to the Blessed Mother. The procession was a heartfelt expression of faith, as parishioners carried images, candles, and flowers to honor Mary.

Several Fiesta Masses were celebrated throughout the day at 6:00 a.m., 9:00 a.m., and 11:00 a.m. The 11:00 a.m. Mass was especially meaningful as it marked the “Binyagan sa Parokya” or parish baptism, symbolizing new beginnings and the continued growth of the faith community. Families and friends gathered in thanksgiving for the blessings received through the intercession of Our Lady of Fatima.

The day reached its spiritual peak with the Pontifical Mass at 5:00 p.m., presided over by Most Rev. Romulo G. Valles, D.D., Archbishop of Davao. During this solemn celebration, the Archbishop installed the new parish priest, Rev. Fr. Dexter Veloso, and formally presented the new parish vicar, Rev. Fr. Michael Ondras Jr. The ceremony was filled with joy and reverence as the faithful warmly welcomed their new shepherds, promising their prayers and support in the continued mission of the Church.

Following the Mass, the Archbishop also led the commissioning of the Parish Pastoral Council (PPC), GKK Servant Leaders (GSL), and the parish administrative staff. This symbolic act reminded everyone that the mission of the Church extends beyond the walls of the parish as it thrives through the collective service of its people. Parishioners were encouraged to renew their commitment to serve God and the community with humility, dedication, and love.

As the Our Lady of Fatima Parish celebrates its 73rd year, the fiesta stands as a living testament to the community’s faith, resilience, and unity. Through prayer, celebration, and service, the parish continues to grow as a beacon of hope, guided by the loving care of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The entire celebration was not only a tribute to the parish’s rich history but also a joyful renewal of its promise to walk together in faith—with Mary, toward her Son, Jesus Christ.