Day of Joy and New Beginning for St. John Paul II Parish, Inawayan

Today (October 19, 2025) was a truly historic and joyful day for the community of Inawayan, Santa Cruz, Davao del Sur. The local Catholic faithful celebrated a remarkable triple milestone centered on their beloved St. John Paul II Church of the Diocese of Digos.

The celebration began with a Special Concelebrated Mass, led by the shepherd of the Diocese, Most Rev. Guillermo Afable, DD. The most significant event was the Canonical Erection of the church. This means the community is no longer just a “Sub-Parish” but has been officially declared a full Parish. This recognition highlights the community’s strong faith and growth, giving it a complete identity within the Diocese. It’s a moment of great pride and a call to a greater mission for all the faithful in Inawayan.

Following the declaration, the community welcomed its first-ever Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Julius Descartin, RCJ. His installation brings a new chapter of guidance and service, ensuring the spiritual needs of the people are met with dedicated pastoral care. Fr. Descartin, who belongs to the Rogationists of the Heart of Jesus (RCJ) congregation, officially took on his role as the 1st ever Parish Priest of the new parish.

The memorable day concluded with the Groundbreaking Ceremony for the new Parish Church structure. This marks the beginning of the construction of a permanent and larger home for the growing community. The act symbolizes the community’s deep hope and commitment to establishing a lasting sanctuary for prayer and worship.

The entire celebration, from the Mass to the groundbreaking, was a powerful display of faith and community spirit. It reminds everyone that great things start with a small seed of faith and grow through dedication and hope. May this new parish be a source of constant blessings and spiritual strength for all. (Sugid)