The Oblates of Saint Joseph Canonical Visit of Communion and Mission in SFDAP-Tagakpan

San Francisco de Asis Parish was recently blessed with a moment of grace and ecclesial communion as the Oblates of Saint Joseph conducted a canonical visit led by their Superior General, Rev. Fr. Jan Pelczarski, OSJ, accompanied by his Second General Councilor, Rev. Fr. Ademola Michael Odubela, OSJ and the Provincial Superior of the Oblates of Saint Joseph — Saint Joseph Province, Philippine Province (SJPP), Rev. Fr. Alexius Magtibay, OSJ. The visit, held from February 19 to 20, 2026, gathered clergy and lay faithful alike in a meaningful encounter that highlighted the importance of pastoral accompaniment, fraternal support, and shared mission within the life of the Church.

Arriving at exactly 10:48 in the evening of February 19, the visiting delegates were warmly received in San Francisco de Asis Parish Tagakpan by members of the Parish Pastoral Council (PPC), together with the Priest, Rev. Fr. Mario B. Holmina, OSJ, Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Euricho Raphael A. Maralit, OSJ, and Br. Jose Bart Cancio, OSJ . Despite the late hour, the atmosphere was filled with joy and reverence as parish leaders and community members welcomed their religious superiors, recognizing the visit as both a sign of unity with the wider congregation and a moment of spiritual encouragement for the local Church. The simple yet heartfelt reception reflected the strong collaboration between clergy and laity, a partnership that continues to sustain parish life and missionary work in the area.

On the second day of their stay, the visiting superiors paid a courtesy call to Most Rev. Romulo G. Valles, Archbishop of Davao. The meeting underscored the spirit of communion between the Oblates of Saint Joseph and the Archdiocese, strengthening ecclesial ties and reaffirming the congregation’s commitment to its pastoral responsibilities in mission territories. Beyond formal engagements, the canonical visit also allowed the superiors to personally meet with the OSJ priests serving in Tagakpan, listen to their experiences, and assess the current realities of their parishes and mission communities.

At its heart, the canonical visit aimed to provide pastoral oversight and fraternal support, ensuring that the priests in the mission areas are accompanied in their ministry while also gaining a deeper understanding of the needs and challenges faced by the faithful. Through dialogue, prayer, and community interaction, the visit became an opportunity to renew missionary zeal and strengthen the bonds that unite the congregation with the people they serve.

The visit concluded with a culmination Mass on February 21, 2026, attended by nearly all members of the Gagmay’ng Kristohanong Katilingban (GKK) and PPC leaders, whose presence reflected the vibrant faith life of the community. Gathered around the Eucharistic table, the faithful offered thanksgiving for the blessings of the visit and renewed their commitment to walk together in faith and service.

As the delegation departed, the canonical visit left behind a spirit of hope and encouragement, a reminder that the Church continues to grow stronger when shepherds remain close to their flock, accompanying them in their shared journey of mission and discipleship. (Jeffren P. Miguel)