The Filipino Catholic Apostolate of the Archdiocese of New York, in collaboration with the San Lorenzo Ruiz Global Ministry, will hold a Holy Mass honoring San Lorenzo Ruiz, the first Filipino saint and martyr, at St. Patrick’s Cathedral on Sunday, Sept. 13.
Mass will begin at 2 p.m. at the cathedral, located at 460 Madison Ave. in Manhattan. Organizers encourage attendees to arrive by 1:30 p.m. to allow time for seating and prayerful preparation. The Most Rev. Gerardo J. Colacicco, vicar for clergy for the Archdiocese of New York, will serve as principal celebrant.
A celebration of faith
San Lorenzo Ruiz, a layman, husband and father from Manila, was martyred in Nagasaki, Japan, in 1637 after refusing to renounce his Catholic faith. Canonized by Pope John Paul II in 1987, he is remembered as the first Filipino saint and a witness to faith under persecution. His feast day is observed Sept. 28, though Filipino Catholic communities often hold celebrations earlier in the month.
The Mass will bring together Filipino Catholics and the wider New York community in an observance of faith, culture and shared heritage.
“This new choir is a beautiful testament to the faith, talent and enthusiasm of our Filipino youth, and we are so excited to hear them lead us in prayer through music,” FILCA Chaplain the Rev. Rhey Garcia said.
Youth choir debut
The celebration will include the inaugural performance of the newly formed FILCA Youth Choir. Ryan Gamilo will serve as music director, with Marcelo Inot as FILCA choir coordinator.
The debut marks a milestone for the Filipino Catholic community in New York, creating a space for younger Filipino Americans to participate visibly in a major liturgical celebration while sharing their musical gifts with the congregation.
FILCA thanked the Rev. Erno Diaz and the San Lorenzo Ruiz Global Ministry for partnering on the event. It also recognized volunteers from Missionary Families of Christ, TOFA NEWS and The FilAm for their support.
Organizers extended special thanks to the Rev. Robert P. Badillo, M.Id., pastor of Our Lady of Solace-St. Dominic Parish, for allowing the choir to use the church for rehearsals, and to Cristina Climaco for her assistance with the celebration.
The Filipino Catholic Apostolate serves the Filipino Catholic community in the Archdiocese of New York through worship, fellowship and cultural celebration. The San Lorenzo Ruiz Global Ministry promotes devotion to San Lorenzo Ruiz and honors his legacy among Filipino Catholic communities worldwide.
