Santa Cruzan draws Toronto faithful on May 30

Santa Cruzan draws Toronto faithful on May 30

TORONTO–The Feast of the Holy Cross popularly known as the SantaCruzan combined with Flores De Mayo hosted for the 11th year by the Parish of San Lorenzo Ruiz has commenced. The two days celebration was kicked off with the grand reception Saturday (May 29) at the Macedonian Church, 237 Sackville Avenue Toronto.

The highlight of the program was the traditional coronation of Reyna Elena 2004 and the mass presentation of sagalas. Also in attendance were the Federal and Provincial MP’s from our riding that graced the occasion.

On Sunday (May 30) the second day of the celebration continued with the Fiesta at Saint Jamestown, located at Cabbage town area. The Hermano Mayor 2004, Willie Nabus had outlined various activities and programs, which include the parade originating from San Lorenzo Ruiz Church at 509 Dundas -passing along parliament Street converging and ends in the Jamestown area.

The Festivity commemorates the search of the Holy Cross by majestic Queen Helena (Reyna Elena 2004) escorted by her son, The Prince Constantine under huge canopy of May flowers followed by the adoring sagalas on their long gowns walking inch by inch with the musical bands while moving with devotees and faithful singing, and praying with rosaries and candles.

Leaders of the community organizations and political parties had joined the parade. There were musical shows, entertainment at the open field.

Selected young Filipina ladies, who portrayed the role of sagalas in their respective theme Filipiniana-inspired fashion were joined this year’s Reyna Elena 2004, “Miss Irisha Claire Nabus” and her court for the parade-symbolizing respective characters as follows:

Reyna Independencia–the lady who depicts the Filipino peoples struggles for freedom.
Reyna Banderada or the Queen of the Flag–a young lady dressed in a long triangular flag. She represents the coming of Christianity.

Reyna Justicia or Lady of Justice–a personification of the mirror of justice.

Reyna Delas Flores or the Queen of Flowers (Flores De Mayo)–she carries a bouquet of flowers.
Reyna Emperatriz and others who will personify characters of Christian virtues, faith and values that the Filipinos uphold.

This colorful parade were accompanied by band, steady beat of rondalla, playing and singing, while devotees walked the procession with candles in their hands singing the prayer. Decorated arks and flowers were added.

Santa Cruzan in the Philippines commemorate the search of the Holy Cross by Queen Helena (Reyna Elena) and her son the converted Emperor Constantine in the 4th century. After the Holy Cross was found in Jerusalem and brought back to Rome, there was a joyful celebration. Now it is a religious-historical re-enactment and became an iconic cultural event–a reflections of ingenuity of the Filipino people in adapting to Western Practices without losing their indigenous tradition.

(PRESS RELEASE)