Closing of the Holy Door: A Significant Culmination of Davao’s Diamond Jubilee Celebration

The closing of the Holy Door, commemorating the Diamond Jubilee Anniversary of the local Church of Davao, was held on December 17, 2024. The event was preceded by a solemn Holy Mass presided over by Most Rev. Romulo G. Valles, D.D., with Most Rev. George B. Rimando, D.D., Auxiliary Bishop of Davao, Rev. Fr. Zenon Ampong, Ascension of the Lord Parish Priest, and Rev. Fr. Michael Ondras Jr., Archdiocesan Liturgical Center Director, as concelebrants.

In his homily, Archbishop Valles likened the Holy Door to Christ, emphasizing its reflective symbolism. He explained that passing through the door signifies following Jesus, the path to salvation and in entering we hope to share in His divinity. He expressed this beautifully, stating, “Musulod kita sa Holy Door, who is Christ, mahimo tang balaan; we become divine.” As the exact date of the anniversary of Davao’s establishment as a prelature, he also acknowledged the pioneering efforts of the PME Fathers and the Jesuits, who brought and nurtured the faith in Davao 75 years ago.

Over the past three months, many pilgrims visited and passed through the Holy Door, embracing its invitation to seek renewal and conversion. Following the Holy Mass, the Catholic faithful processed through the Holy Door one last time, exiting the Cathedral in a symbolic act of spiritual renewal. The Rite of Closing concluded the celebration.

Although the Holy Door has been closed, we are reminded of the challenge and call for conversion. The true spiritual growth requires ongoing effort and cannot rely solely on indulgences, we stay steadfast to our commitment to following Christ in our daily lives.