On August 19, 2026, the parish community gathered in joy and devotion to honor the Feast of St. Ezequiel Moreno, missionary bishop and patron of the sick. The celebration featured Masses, the enthronement of the saint’s relics, the blessing of an image brought from the Philippines, and the introduction of a Filipino devotional practice for the sick and elderly.
A First Feast with the Augustinian Recollect Friars
This year’s celebration was especially significant because it was the parish’s first Feast of St. Ezequiel Moreno celebrated by the newly arrived Augustinian Recollect friars from the Province of St. Ezequiel Moreno. The friars assumed responsibility as parish administrators during the toma de posesión on May 29, 2026.
Morning Mass, Fellowship, and Gratitude
The day began with a morning Mass presided over by Fr. Vincent S. Cadeliña, OAR. Although a planned pastoral visit to sick elderly parishioners was postponed because of other parish activities, the commitment to carry it out remains firm.
At midday, parish and convent personnel shared a fraternal meal with Doña María Jesús Nañez, who was healed of cancer through the intercession of St. Ezequiel. The gathering also included a birthday celebration for the parish secretary as a token of gratitude for her service.
Solemn Evening Mass and Blessing of the Saint’s Image
The solemn evening Eucharistic celebration began at 6:00 PM, with Fr. Joel Villaruel, OAR, as the main celebrant and Fr. Vincent Cadeliña, OAR, and Fr. Virgilio Calalang, OAR, as concelebrants.
Following the Mass, the relics of St. Ezequiel Moreno were enthroned, and the image brought from the Philippines by Fr. Virgil was blessed.
Filipino Palapak or Patunob Devotion Introduced
A highlight of the celebration was the introduction of the Filipino devotional practice known as palapak or patunob. After receiving the sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick, the faithful approached to be touched by the image of St. Ezequiel, symbolizing direct contact with God’s blessing through the saint’s intercession.
The rite drew strong participation. Many parishioners, especially the elderly and sick, desired to be anointed and to experience being “matumban ni San Ezequiel,” a devotion that signifies being “alcanzado por el santo.”
A Devotion of Comfort and Healing
The celebration continued late into the evening, reflecting the deep devotion of the faithful. Parish leaders expressed hope that the rite will become a cherished practice, fostering closeness to St. Ezequiel Moreno and bringing comfort and healing to the many elders who are ill in the community.
Patronal Community Feast Set for August 22
Looking ahead, the parish announced that the Patronal Community Feast will be held on August 22. The festivities will include a grand procession with the image of the saint, joined by different parish organizations and the barrios under its jurisdiction.
On Sunday afternoon, the celebration will continue with a kermés, a traditional community fair usually organized by parishes, schools, or local groups. In Colombian culture, it is a festive gathering that combines faith, food, games, and cultural activities, highlighting the community’s vibrant faith and traditions.
