Meeting with Homeowners Associations (HOAs) and PPC
Quezon City, Philippines. Bishop Roberto O. Gaa met with the Parish Pastoral Council (PPC) and officers & representatives from six Homeowners Associations (HOAs) — NSEV, NIV, ROMAROSA, SAMADORES, MAFRAN, and NAMALU — at the Immaculate Conception Parish (ICP) Conference Room.
Fr. Alex Gobrin introduced the officers and representatives of the various HOAs, and explained the purpose of the meeting which is to foster collaboration between the Church and the associations, and explore ways in which both could support one another for the benefit of the community.
Bishop Gaa reaffirmed his commitment to serving the people and maintaining an open dialogue between the Church and the HOAs. He emphasized that the Church is dedicated to helping all, regardless of their religious affiliations, highlighting the importance of ecumenical fellowship. He also invited the participants to share their community’s concerns and discussed how the Church could assist them.
The meeting concluded with Fr. Alex expressing his gratitude to all attendees. Both the Church and the HOAs committed to continuing their collaboration and maintaining regular dialogue moving forward.
Meeting with Parish Staff and General Assembly After Bishop Gaa met with the Immaculate Conception Parish (ICP) staff, he took the time to listen attentively to the narratives of the various parish servers, each one offering a glimpse into the joys and challenges of their dedicated service to the Church. The stories conveyed their commitment to the parish’s mission. One particularly moving moment was the account of how the Educational Assistance Program came to fruition through the bayanihan spirit of the parishioners. “Bishop Gaa’s presence and genuine interest in the experiences shared by the church volunteers rekindled a deep sense of motivation and inspiration among all who serve at ICP.”
Eucharistic Celebration and Closing of the Pastoral Visit
During the 6:00 PM Mass officiated by Bishop Roberto O. Gaa, and concelebrated by Fr. Alex Gobrin, Fr. Pipo Mercadejas and Fr. Gilbert Queñano, the bishop reflected on the Gospel of Mark 7:32-37, where Jesus healed a deaf man with a speech impediment, proclaiming, “Ephphatha!” (meaning “be opened”). Bishop Gaa urged the parishioners to open their hearts, minds, and eyes to receive God’s miracles, and to become instruments of God’s goodness, so that each miracle brings forth goodness in everyone.
It was also during the Mass that the Alay kay Maria ‘alkansya’ project was launched. This campaign seeks to inspire the community to participate in a noble endeavor that nurtures a spirit of generosity and self-giving, following the example of our Blessed Mother, who said “yes” to God’s plan through her profound surrender and self-offering. We too, are called to make small sacrifices, symbolized by the humble alkansya (coin bank). Each coin saved becomes a “drop of kindness,” a heartfelt prayer, and a silent act of devotion.
Gabi ng Pasasalamat
To conclude Bishop Roberto O. Gaa’s pastoral visit to Immaculate Conception Parish, a heartwarming Thanksgiving Dinner was hosted at the NSEV Covered Court, the venue made available through the kindness of the NSEV Homeowners’ Association (HOA). The event was open to all parishioners and church servers, creating a festive atmosphere filled with community and gratitude.
Attendees enjoyed a sumptuous feast, facilitated by the Special Events and Logistics (SEAL) Ministry, with vibrant entertainment provided by the talented Youth and Music Ministries, whose performances added to the joyful spirit of the evening. In his closing message, Bishop Gaa expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the parishioners, offering words that inspired a renewed sense of mission and unity within the parish community.
The evening was a heartwarming celebration of faith, fellowship, and thanksgiving. Overall, Bishop Gaa’s pastoral visit is truly a time of grace, inspiring a deeper commitment to living out our faith in service to God and others.
