Calabrian Religious Communities Join Lenten Recollection and Chrism Mass

Cagayan de Oro City – Yesterday, 31^st of March 2026, the religious communities of the Calabrians in Cagayan de Oro city participated to a Lenten recollection organized by the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro. The said event was held at St. Francis Xavier Parish, Pueblo, Cagayan de Oro City. Fr. Oscar Gorgonio, DCM, a diocesan priest from the Diocese of Malaybalay, shared his reflection on the life of St. Francis of Assisi and the radical challenge to live out our Christian identity amidst difficulties and struggles. He said: “The harder the struggle, the sweeter the victory.”

In the afternoon, Archbishop Jose Cabantan, DD of Cagayan de Oro led the eucharistic celebration for the renewal of priestly promises and chrism mass. In his homily, he highlighted the mission of priests, not only as dispensers of the sacraments, but as instruments of peace in a world tormented by wars and conflicts. The renewal of priestly promises carries with it the weight of configuring one’s life to the Divine Shepherd, who sow peace and forgiveness despite persecution and suffering.

The participation of the Calabrian communities to these events is a testament of their communion to the local Church of Cagayan de Oro and their commitment to serving the Church with zeal and fidelity.