Pailaw sa Parokya 2025 Opens with Light, Youthful Joy and Hope

San Francisco de Asis Parish–Tagakpan once again ushered in the spirit of Advent through its annual Pailaw sa Parokya 2025, held on December 15, 2025 at 5:00 in the afternoon, a day before the start of the Misa de Gallo.

The yearly event, which has become a cherished parish tradition, was organized and spearheaded by the Joseph Marello Youth (JMY) under the guidance of their main trainer, Mr. Sherwin Z. Nuera, drawing parishioners together in faith, joy, and anticipation for the coming of Christ.

The celebration began in the afternoon with a Holy Mass at exactly 5:00 PM, presided by Rev. Fr. Mario B. Holmina, OSJ, parish priest, and concelebrated by Rev. Fr. Euricho Raphael Maralit, OSJ, parochial vicar. The Eucharistic celebration set a prayerful and reflective tone for the event, reminding the faithful that the true meaning of Christmas begins in worship and conversion of heart.

In his homily, Fr. Maralit emphasized the importance of humility as the Christian community joyfully waits for the coming of Christ. He reminded the congregation that Advent is not merely a season of lights and decorations, but a sacred time of preparation, one that calls every believer to simplicity, openness, and readiness to welcome the Lord into their lives.

Following the Mass, the much-awaited ceremonial lighting of the parish Christmas decorations commenced, transforming the parish grounds into a vibrant display of light and color. This was immediately followed by a theatrical and musical presentation prepared by the Joseph Marello Youth. Nearly 100 youth members actively participated in the performance, showcasing their talents and dedication through expressive songs, dances, and dramatizations that conveyed messages of hope, faith, and joyful expectation.

The musical and theatrical presentation ran for almost an hour, keeping parishioners engaged and inspired. The youthful energy and creativity of the performers added life and vibrance to the celebration, highlighting the vital role of the youth in sustaining and enlivening parish activities.

In his closing message, Fr. Mario B. Holmina, OSJ expressed his heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of this year’s Pailaw sa Parokya, from the organizers and youth performers to the ministries and parishioners who offered their time, effort, and support. He emphasized that while the lights and performances bring joy, the true meaning of the celebration is firmly rooted in Christ, whom the Church joyfully awaits during the Advent season.

Fr. Mario also reminded the faithful to continue their spiritual preparation by attending the Misa de Gallo, which begins the following day, December 16, at 4:00 in the morning, encouraging everyone to welcome Christ not only with festive lights, but with renewed faith and commitment.

Through Pailaw sa Parokya 2025, San Francisco de Asis Parish once again affirmed that Christmas begins with Christ—whose light shines brightest when shared through faith, service, and community. (Jeffren Miguel | Photos by Lynzzy Jane Gerali)