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Filipino Pilgrims Gather at the Martyrs' Shrine in Midland-Ontario  on Aug. 1, 2015

By Bob Rosales (Deacon)
Ontario-Canada
May 14, 2015



Toronto, Ontario -- Filipino pilgrims will gather together at the Martyrs’ Shrine in Midland, Ontario on  Saturday, August 1, 2015, in celebration of the Catholic faith and the lives of the  Martyrs and Saints -- including those of San Lorenzo Ruiz's and San Pedro Calungsod's, who inspire the Filipino faithful in one's spiritual journey.

Under the auspices of the Archdiocesan Filipino Catholic Mission (AFCM), headed by Fr. Ben F. Ebcas, Jr. -- Head of the Filipino Chaplaincy in Toronto and the Pastor of "Our Lady of Assumption Parish" here, the gathering is a yearly event, of praise and worship and the celebration of the Eucharist.

In its 35th consecutive celebration year, the event serves as a cultural fellowship at the same time,  where Filipino talent, music, arts, and regional delicacies are shared.

This year’s theme is from Leviticus 20:7 : “You shall consecrate yourselves therefore and be holy, for I am the Lord your God.”.  

The theme is in conjunction with the Roman Catholic Church’s "The Year of Consecrated Life", which, His Holiness, Pope Francis I, dedicated for the year 2015, saying, “I want to say one word to you and this word is joy.  Wherever consecrated people are, there is always joy!"

The theme is aimed at reflecting on the unique role that religious men and women have in the Church; everything from their charisms to their challenges.

The AFCM is inviting everyone to join in the celebration. Business vendors are welcome to set up booths at the shrine.

Bus transportation to and from the Shrine will be available at numerous pick-up points all over the GTA.  Detailed list of pick-up stations will be announced when it becomes available.

Pilgrims may also organize their own group,  either with their own bus, or car pool brigades.

A big family picnic for all the faithful Filipino pilgrims, the AFCM hopes to see everyone at the Shrine and shares one's favourite Filipino dishes and delicacies. The AFCM is also sending with this communication its blessing of continued good health, peace, joy, prosperity, and an enduring love for one another and our Almighty God.

For more information please call :
Sis. Zeny, 416-292-4354; Don Quilao, 416-903-3453; Sis. Jeanette, 416-949-9318; Sis. Rosemer, 416-887-2167; Bro. Joey 647-830-5639; Deacon Bob, 416-346-3324; and, Our Lady of The Assumption Church, 416-787-4547.