SFDAP Pilgrimage 2026: Gathering Hundreds of Pilgrims in a Lenten Journey of Faith

Davao City — Demonstrating a vibrant expression of faith and communal devotion, San Francisco de Asis Parish successfully conducted its Visita Iglesia 2026, bringing together approximately 800 pilgrims in a day-long spiritual journey across seven churches in the Dioceses of Tagum and Mati.

The pilgrimage commenced in the early hours of the day, beginning with an orientation and opening prayer led by the parish priest, Rev. Fr. Mario B. Holmina, OSJ. In his message, he reminded the faithful that Visita Iglesia is not merely a tradition, but a sacred opportunity for prayer, reflection, and spiritual renewal, especially during the Lenten season.

At exactly 3:30 in the morning, the pilgrims departed in 98 vehicles, united in purpose as they embarked on the annual Lenten practice. Their first destination was the Christ the King Cathedral in Tagum City, where they arrived at 5:13 AM. The pilgrims participated in the celebration of the Holy Mass at 6:30 AM, presided over by the Assistant Parish Priest of the cathedral, setting a solemn and grace-filled tone for the journey.

The faithful then proceeded to the Diocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Maco, Davao de Oro, where they offered Marian prayers, entrusting their intentions to the loving intercession of the Blessed Mother. This was followed by a visit to the Diocesan Shrine of the Sto. Niño in Mabini, Davao de Oro, where the pilgrims reflected on the humility and simplicity of Christ.

Continuing their pilgrimage, the group arrived at the San Jose Parish in Pantukan, Davao de Oro, honoring Saint Joseph as a model of obedience and faithful service. They then visited the San Vicente Ferrer Parish in Lupon, Davao Oriental, where the faithful were inspired by the saint’s call to conversion and missionary zeal.

The sixth stop brought the pilgrims to the Divine Mercy Parish in Mati City, where prayers centered on God’s boundless mercy, fostering a spirit of repentance, healing, and trust. Finally, the pilgrimage concluded at the San Nicolas de Tolentino Cathedral Parish in Mati City, where the faithful offered their final prayers of thanksgiving, marking the culmination of their sacred journey.

This year’s Visita Iglesia highlighted not only the enduring tradition of visiting seven churches during Lent but also the strong sense of unity and active participation within the parish community. The large number of pilgrims, traveling together in faith, reflected a deep desire for spiritual growth and a renewed relationship with God.

The Visita Iglesia 2026 became more than a physical journey. It became a pilgrimage of the heart: an experience of grace that strengthened faith, fostered communion, and inspired the faithful to continue living out the Gospel in their daily lives. (Kent Aldrin Putane)