Mag-abot ta sa Tabo-an

Advent is a time of waiting. But for the construction of the new apostolic priory in Brgy. San Nicolas Proper, our advent began three years ago, when we decided to purchase a lot to establish a new community in the heart of the city.  Our waiting was filled with several ups and downs. And when the pandemic came, we know that what we are awaiting is not coming very soon. But God is the God of the present. And His timing for us is always perfect. When the restrictions eased down, with the help of Ms. Ruth Dilao and Mr. Noel Alicaya, we worked slowly but surely to do the bidding for the construction.  On the last week of November 2020, we awarded the bid to Phil. Macro Devt. Corporation (PMDC) to be our contractor for this project.

Finally the long wait is over. Last Dec 12, 2020, on the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, we finally did the groundbreaking ceremony. The groundbreaking marks the official start of the construction.  In the time capsule, we included the plans of the construction, and the Miraculous Medal. We entrust into the hands of our Mother, all these plans, all our hopes and desires.

It was like Christmas Eve for the building of the new apostolic priory.  At last, what we have been waiting for, is beginning to take place.  What was only in our vivid dreams is now coming to reality.  It was a very simple but meaningful celebration.  Bishop Midyphil Billones, the auxiliary bishop of Cebu presided the blessing.  In his homily, he expressed how his heart was deeply moved by the project in Taboan. He said that Taboan is not only a meeting place for the people, but it is also a place to encounter God. “In the Christmas season, we celebrate the birth of Jesus…God who became man, came to us, in our lowliest and neediest state.”

Indeed, the apostolic priory in Taboan will be a place for the youth, for families, for people in the surrounding area to encounter the Lord in a personal way.  But it is also a two way process.  In doing this mission, the Brothers of St. John, the Apostolic Sisters, the lay missionaries, will also encounter Christ in a deep and personal way by meeting the vendors, the traysikad drivers, the kids on the street, anyone who will come our way, will be an opportunity to encounter Christ.  Together we will meet Jesus in Taboan. (Bisag kinsa nga atong matagboan, mamahimong kahigayonan nga matagboan pod nato si Kristo.  Tagboon ta si Kristo sa Taboan.)

We entrust to your prayers the actual construction of the new apostolic priory which is now taking place.  Our big thank you once again for all the people who have helped and supported us from the very beginning.  They may be too many to mention here, but we are truly grateful for the love and support you have shown us since Day 1.  Indeed, you are one of the cornerstones, of which this mission is built.

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year!