Easter Sunday’s Final Mass

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Easter Sunday’s Final Mass: An Afternoon of Light and Hope in Alabel



On April 20, 2025, the San Isidro Labrador Parish in Alabel, Sarangani Province concluded its Easter Sunday celebrations with a solemn and spirit-filled 5:00 PM Mass, the final liturgical gathering for the day. As the golden hues of the setting sun bathed the church in warm light, parishioners came in quiet procession, hearts uplifted in celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.






The Mass was presided over by Rev. Fr. Elmer Cantular, a Claretian missionary priest currently assigned in Datal Anggas, one of Alabel’s most remote and mountainous barangays. His presence brought a profound reminder of the Church’s missionary spirit—bridging distance and difference to proclaim the Good News to all.








Fr. Cantular’s homily centered on the enduring message of Easter: hope rising from the tomb, light dispelling the darkness. Drawing from his pastoral experiences in the uplands, he shared heartfelt reflections on how even in the farthest sitios, where life is often marked by struggle and sacrifice, the light of Christ continues to shine through the faith of the people. “The Resurrection is not just a historical event,” he said, “but a present reality for those who choose to live in love, forgiveness, and compassion.”


The afternoon Mass, though quieter than the morning celebrations, carried a deep sense of reverence. The choir’s gentle hymns, the flickering Paschal candle, and the gathered community—young and old—created a sacred space filled with peace and thanksgiving. The altar, adorned with Easter lilies and white linen, stood as a symbol of new life and spiritual renewal.






As the sun dipped behind the hills of Alabel, casting long shadows across the churchyard, the faithful left with hearts full of gratitude and renewed purpose. This final Easter Mass was more than a liturgical rite—it was a powerful reminder that Christ’s resurrection continues to unfold in everyday lives, especially when we bring light to places of darkness.


Indeed, from the mission hills of Datal Anggas to the heart of Alabel town, Easter Sunday 2025 was a triumph of faith, love, and community.


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