San Lorenzo Ruiz de Manila Parish at Pleasant Hill Subdivision, City of San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, Bulacan 3023 PH - Postscript on the Church Dedication

The concelebrated Mass during the Church Dedication and Consecration.

“With a grateful heart, I share everyone’s gladness. There is nothing more satisfying than seeing the fruits of our labor and love, all for God’s greater glory.” Thus said Fr. Mar Ladra of the Consecration and Dedication of the Church of San Lorenzo de Manila last Sunday, January 22, 2006. Close to 3,000 people attended the well-turned out grand celebration. The Holy Eucharist was concelebrated by two (2) Bishops and ten (10) Diocesans priests from Bulacan and abroad.

In attendance were VIP’s and all-time church benefactors – Doña Mary de Leon Rufino who came aboard a helicopter, family scions of Madrigal, Halili, Fernandez, San Luis, Santos, Reyes, Herrera and Nicolas. Very visible were entertainment luminaries Imelda Papin and Maryo J. delos Reyes, and House of Congress dignitaries Eduardo Roquero, Neneng Nicolas, Gilbert Remulla and representative of Sen. Manny Villar. Relatives and friends of Fr. Mar from hometown Calauan and from the states led by Inay Elpie and Dr. Carandang, respectively, arrived earlier to witness the entire ceremonies. Intimate friends of Fr. Mar from Our Lady of Guadalupe Seminary came to assist. Fond supporters and well-wishers from Bulacan – San Miguel, Sta. Maria, Pulilan and San Jose came in full force, not to be outdone in number and in donations by benefactors from Pasig, Makati, Manila and Laguna.

On hand to facilitate the ceremonies were the vibrant working committees in flair colors of green and yellow. The dexterous Senior Citizens, and the agile Dominic Savio dancers amused everyone with their mirthful sways and swings. Quezon City 30-man band, courtesy of Atty. Jojo and Pinky Ochoa, added ambiance to the already festive atmosphere. Sumptuous meal of several dishes percolated everybody’s appetite. The lip-smacking ice-cream, fruit salad and pastillas added zest to the menu. Envelopes sent out for guests, principal sponsors, sponsors and donor reached 2,600. This, in turn, generated a total amount of PHP 1,513,176.75. Donations ranged from PHP 50,000 and US$ 2,000 to PHP 20 and PHP 10, proofs that even the have-nots willingly shared what they could afford “para lang maging bahagi sila ng Handog sa Diyos”. God indeed works subtly, but powerfully!

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