60th Parochial Fiesta: Six Decades of Faith and Hope

Beneath banners of thanksgiving and amid prayers shaped by six decades of faith, the St. Francis Xavier Parish in Tibungco marked a milestone that was both historic and deeply personal: its 60th Parochial Fiesta last December 3, 2025. The feast features the theme: “San Francisco Javier, Giya Sa Mga Malaumong Piniyalan Sulod Sa 60 Ka Tuig Ngadto Sa Madasigong Pagtoo.” The celebration was not only a remembrance of the parish’s beginnings and growth, but also a moment of renewal as the community welcomed new pastoral leadership. Faithful from different generations gathered as one family, the parish is united by gratitude for the past and hope for the road ahead.

At the heart of the celebration was the Pontifical Mass presided over by Most Rev. Romulo G. Valles, D.D., Archbishop of Davao alongside the concelebrating priests and deacons. His presence underscored the importance of the occasion, as the parish officially celebrated the installation of Rev. Fr. Rommel Banilad as the new Parish Priest and the presentation of Rev. Fr. Ranieboy Pamplona as Parochial Vicar. Their assumption of office was received with warm applause and heartfelt prayers, reflecting the community’s trust in their shepherds and their openness to renewed pastoral guidance.

The image of St. Francis Xavier, missionary and patron of the parish, stood as a silent yet powerful witness to the day’s events. For sixty years, his example of zeal, humility, and courage has inspired the faithful of Tibungco to persevere through challenges and to serve beyond comfort. The anniversary celebration echoed this legacy, reminding parishioners that the mission entrusted to them continues: rooted in faith and expressed through concrete acts of service.

Beyond the liturgy, the fiesta was made meaningful by the collective effort of the parish community. Parishioners, lay ministers, sponsors, benefactors, committees, volunteers, and friends worked hand in hand to ensure that the celebration reflected not just festivity, but gratitude and unity. Their generosity of time, talent, and resources transformed the anniversary into a true communal offering, one that went beyond decorations and programs, reaching into the heart of shared discipleship.

In a message of thanksgiving, the parish extended a heartfelt “daghang salamat” to everyone who contributed to the success of the celebration. Each sacrifice, whether seen or unseen, was acknowledged as part of a larger story of faithfulness that has sustained the parish for six decades. Through the intercession of St. Francis Xavier, prayers were offered that the Lord may bless abundantly all who continue to serve with joyful hearts.

As St. Francis Xavier Parish looks beyond its 60th year, the celebration stands as a reminder that anniversaries are not endpoints, but invitations. With new leadership, renewed commitment, and a community strengthened by gratitude, the parish moves forward as one: faithful, grateful, and ever ready to serve, carrying its rich past into a future shaped by mission and hope.