PALE' ERIC IN MANILA'S PADRE PIO CENTER

With Mr. Ramon Rodriguez, director of the National Center of Padre Pio in Manila.

PADRE PIO FEAST A GREAT SUCCESS

On Sunday, September 23, 300 or more people converged on Saint Fidelis Friary on Guam to celebrate the Feast of Saint Padre Pio.  The theme this year was "Padre Pio and the Sacred Heart."  Starting on September 15 and ending on the 23rd, Fr. Eric Forbes, OFM Cap preached every night on this theme during the Mass following the novena.

An hour before Mass, the chapel was full and people had to start sitting outside.

For the benefit of those sitting outside, the liturgy was filmed and shown live on the tower wall.

The candlelight procession.

Procession with the image of Padre Pio.

Veneration of the Relic.

Devotees all brought something to share at the dinner after the Mass.

FATHER JOSE HONORED IN SAIPAN

Twenty-five years ago, a new, modern hospital was opened on Saipan to serve the Northern Marianas called the Commonwealth Health Center (CHC).  Years before it opened, a board was founded to plan for the design and building of that hospital - the Commonwealth Health Coordinating Council.  From 1980 till 1986, a Capuchin from Saipan, Father Jose G. Villagomez, was chairman of that Council.

Last Friday, August 31, Fr. Jose was honored by the Commonwealth for his service many years ago.  The Acting Governor and the CEO of the hospital were in attendance, and a joint resolution commending Fr. Jose was presented by the 17th Commonwealth Legislature.

Father Jose, who now serves as pastor of Saint Francis Church in Yona, Guam, said he was "humbled and appreciative" of this recognition.

 

Father Jose was joined at the ceremony by members of his family.