Archbishop Valles Focused on Love for GKK

The St. Anthony de Padua GKK, St. Anthony Village under St. Francis of Assisi Parish-La Verna celebrated its 37th Patronal Fiesta last June 12, 2026 with the theme “San Antonio de Padua, Kauban sa Pag-alagad sa Katilingban nga Puno sa Gugma ug Paglaum”.

The GKK Servant Leaders, spearheaded by Ms. Sylvia Orbeta, Pangulo sa Katilingban, together with active and supportive members, participated in the preparations, including the nine-day novena, Bayanihan within the village and the project of acquiring new pews for the Chapel.

The highlight of the celebration was the Fiesta Mass presided by Most Rev. Romulo G. Valles, DD, Archbishop of Davao and con-celebrated by Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Gonzaga, Parish Priest of SFAP-La Verna, Rev. Fr. Orlando Angelia, Rev. Fr. Rey Sabuero and Rev. Fr. Julius Lugay. The Eucharistic celebration was covered Live via DXGN through generous members – donors as Mission Partners.

In his Homily, Abp. Valles focused on Love. He said that “God is Love and each person is called to love one another. The Love for GKK is to be with others, to inspire others and that each member can feel the love of the Lord. Life-giving “Gugma” for the good of others”. He further expressed his joy about the beauty of the Chapel, described as having the grandeur of a Parish Church.

PSK Sylvia Orbeta mentioned during interview that as an expression of gratitude for blessings received, GSLs and members offered 15 sacks of rice and other goods during the Offertory for the benefit of St. Francis Xavier College Seminary of Davao, Inc. She is thankful for the community’s response through spirit of Faith, Generosity and Stewardship, making this year’s celebration a meaningful one.

The Fiesta event concluded with a Fellowship Meal shared by all who graced the affair with families, friends and guests from the Parish and sister GKKs. Through this year’s Fiesta, it is the challenge for each member to renew the commitment to serve wholeheartedly in building a community based on Love and Hope, inspired by its Patron, St. Anthony de Padua. (Neneng Catayas| GKK SoCCom)