Emulating Love and Service Like St Joseph

The feast of St. Joseph the Worker on May 1 was joyfully celebrated at St. Joseph the Worker D’Achievers, Cabantian, Davao City, under St. Mary of the Perpetual Rosary Parish. The people united in preparing for the fiesta, led by their President (PSK), Jenlibeth A. Lamban.

On April 22, 2026, at 7:00 in the evening, the first novena in honor of their patron, St. Joseph, began. Members of the community gathered to participate in this collective prayer, which was conducted in an orderly and peaceful manner. The readings inspired the people, accompanied by joyful singing centered on the theme, “Using One’s Talents Properly and Rightly.”

The third novena started earlier at 6:00 PM to give way to the input of Sir Henric Damaso, a Catholic Faith Defender. The novena proceeded smoothly under the guidance of their PSL, Bro. Reynaldo Pulvera, together with the prepared readers/LECCOMPS, who proclaimed the Word of the Lord. Sir Henric shared many lessons in his talk entitled, “Why Catholics Ask Saints to Pray for Them.”

In his talk, he explained: “Catholics don’t worship statues—we honor them as reminders of the saints who inspire us to follow God more faithfully. Dili kami mosimba sa rebulto; ang Diyos ra gyud ang among ginasimba. Ang mga santo sama ni St. Joseph, Birhen Maria, San Agustin, ug daghan pa, nagapahinumdom sa Ginoong Diyos. Ang mga rebulto ginatahod ug ginatularan, dili ginaingon nga Diyos.”

On April 29, 2026, at 7:00 PM, Sis. Jing Saniel also shared an important reflection with the members and attendees of the novena. The theme of her commentary was “Gaan ang yugo nga gihatag kanato ni Jesus,” emphasizing that despite challenges, worries, and sins, Jesus will always guide us and make our burdens lighter.

As GKK Servant Leaders, we are called to be an inspiration among our members—modeling generosity, hope, and love. However, these virtues should not remain with the GSL alone. Every member is invited to live out the same spirit from the beginning. We are also reminded to love God as deeply as we love our own families.

On Thursday, April 30, 2026, the day before the fiesta, the procession began at 4:30 PM. The statue of St. Joseph the Worker was carried by the youth of D’Achievers, while others prayed the Holy Rosary led by the Youth LECCOMPS. The procession went smoothly and peacefully until it arrived at the chapel. After the rosary, the 9th novena immediately followed.

On May 1, 2026, the long-awaited day finally arrived. Members gathered early in the morning to prepare and organize everything for the 10:00 AM Mass. The youth of St. Joseph the Worker D’Achievers also helped by holding a short meeting to plan the Mass roles, such as offertory, gift bearers, and altar servers.

At around 10:00 AM, Rev. Fr. Sanny Cantila arrived, and the Mass began right away. With beautiful songs and harmonious music, the celebration became lively and meaningful for everyone present. In his homily, Fr. Sanny inspired the people to become more hopeful in serving God, while also bringing joy through his lighthearted humor.

He shared an example: when someone cooks food for a fiesta, people often say, “Lami lagi ni imong niluto,” and the cook responds, “Kay naa manay lubi (love).” Others may misunderstand it as “lubi/tono” (coconut milk), but what the cook truly means is L-O-V-E, not L-U-B-I. This reflects that when something is done with love, it becomes more meaningful and successful.

Fr. Sanny also emphasized that Jesus is the true King of Love. He shared how this love was also reflected in His Foster Father, St. Joseph the Worker, who showed his love through hard work as a construction worker and by caring for his family. This love motivated St. Joseph to become an inspiration, raising Jesus with faith and perseverance.

After the Mass, everyone gathered for a group photo with Fr. Sanny and Bro. Ian Murillo. Afterwards, they proceeded with the blessing of houses and some vehicles. The celebration concluded with a joyful and hearty meal prepared by the GKK Servant Leaders. (Ana Lamban, SoCCom of St. Joseph the Worker, D’Achievers, Cabantian)