By Rose Gamier, for the North Star
After what seemed like another torrential downpour and gusty winds, last Sunday’s annual parish fiesta of San Roque proved to be a success – what with the clouds appearing to provide just enough shade, and the hidden sun giving off just enough heat to maintain the roads clear and dry allowing the faithful to fully enjoy and celebrate its activities. The parishioners’ prayers must have reached the heavens, indeed! And the North has their beloved patron, San Roque’s intercession to thank for.
The day before the fiesta, a family walkathon was held bringing the community together to kick-off its weekend festivities with an energizing 30-minute Zumba session courtesy of Let’s Move Marianas Zumba. Parishioners then proceeded to the walkathon around the village starting from the church’s façade to Upper and Central San Roque. The Youth Ministry was on hand pointing the way to participants as they try to move from one lap to another, with some completing all ten laps. Free Health Screening was also provided by CHCC Public Health Services and drinks and refreshments were served courtesy of parish donors and volunteers.
Bishop Ryan P. Jimenez was the main celebrant in the Eucharistic celebration, concelebrated by the OAR fathers – Fr. Allan Rubett Cabatian, Fr. Leo Neil Bullos and Fr. Albert Pellazar. Deacons Stan Benavente, Tony Yarobwemal and Tony Schweiger also joined in the celebration. Fr. Allan delivered the beautiful homily noting that August 16 is the exact feast day of San Roque but for pastoral reasons, it can be moved either before or after the Sunday of its actual feast. He recalled that August 11 was also the day when he and Fr. Neil first set foot on Saipan three years ago and admired how the relationship with the community prospered from mere acquaintances to true servants working together for the Lord. As Catholics celebrate fiesta, he suggested three tables to prepare: Table of the Word – food for the mind and heart, Table of the Eucharist – food for the soul, and Table of Banquet – food for body and fellowship. He also exhorted the people to always be prepared for Jesus’ return by praying and being watchful, living responsibly and being faithful.
Bishop Ryan commended the growth of the faithful in the North and thanked Fr. Allan for his ministry. Parish Pastoral Council (PPC) President, Vicente Agulto, gave an appreciation message to all the donors, families and everyone who helped in the preparations including the food, setup, and also the atkus or arches noting their resilience and strength to withstand the wind and rain the night before – just like how the San Roque people are. After the mass, the congregation was able to proceed with the procession “prayerfully” (as Fr. Neil reminded) around the village. Dinner was served at the Social Hall and the people were also treated to some good music from our local band and parish youth, and a magic show from its former altar server. The parishioners, along with its new Parish Administrator, Fr. Leo Neil Bullos, OAR, continue to ask the intercession of their beloved patron, San Roque, as they move forward embracing changes with firm faith and hope in God. Biba San Roque!
For more photos, check here.
