30th annual pilgrimage at Martyr’s Shrine, Aug. 7, 2010

30th annual pilgrimage at Martyr’s Shrine, Aug. 7, 2010

TORONTO–On Saturday, Aug. 7, 2010, Filipino pilgrims, with their families and friends, will gather together at the Martyrs’ Shrine in Midland, Ontario, for the 30th consecutive year. Under the auspices of the Archdiocesan Filipino Catholic Mission, headed by Fr. Ben F. Ebcas, Jr., it is a yearly celebration of our faith, of the lives of the Martyrs and Saints who inspire us in our lives and our spiritual journey.

Among those whose lives we celebrate are those of San Lorenzo Ruiz and Blessed Pedro Calungsod. In addition, it is also a cultural fellowship where Filipino talents, music, arts, and regional delicacies are shared. This annual Filipino pilgrimage includes praise and worship and the celebration of the Eucharist.
This year’s pilgrimage is hosted by the Filipino Canadian Catholic Charismatic Prayer Communities under the leadership of its Head Servant, Bro. Don Quilao.

This year’s theme is: “The Migrant Workers and Refugees – Witnesses and Mission for the World”. The theme is in conjunction with the Roman Catholic Church’s 96th World Day of Migrants and Refugees this year. In his message, His Holiness, Pope Benedict XVI stated that this celebration “touches an aspect that Christians view with great attention, remembering the warning of Christ who at the Last Judgement will consider as directed to himself everything that has been done or denied “to one of the least of these” (cf. Mt 25:40, 45).

For most of us who experience their struggles, the migrant workers and refugees are witnesses for the world by the good work and sacrifice that they do for the families they serve and their own. They are also our “mission”, deserving of our pastoral care and support, that they may experience the grace of our merciful God in the midst of their sub-standard working conditions, separation from their families, and human rights abuse.

We are inviting all of you, your families and friends, to join us in this celebration. Bus transportation to and from the Shrine will be available with numerous pick-up points all over the GTA. You can also organize your own group, either with your own bus or car pool brigades. For more information please call: Teri Gutierrez – (416) 456-0381; Zeny Uy – (416) 292-4354; Nora – (416) 787-4547; Don Quilao – (416) 903-3453 or Email us: fcccpc@yahoo.ca

We hope to see you all at the Shrine on August 7th. May we all be blessed with continued good health, peace, joy, prosperity, and an enduring love for one another and our Almighty God.

(PRESS RELEASE)