God’s Possibilities

Rhodora Fernandez, Parishioner

It was the year 2016 when Fr. Sanju Pani was assigned here in our small and poor community, where only a few people were coming to attend Mass. He quickly saw the problem of our Church, and the new challenge for him. From the start, he has been sincere, hard working, and so dedicated to his ministry; he’s friendly and down to earth, which all our parishioners observed.

Before the end of that year, he called a meeting with the pastoral and finance councils, as well as parishioners; his first step was to win the hearts and love of the people. Before Holy Week, he conducted free house to house blessings in the community and its surrounding areas. He met the families and invited them to go to Church- it was a success. As he saw that our Church was becoming more full, he again called a meeting. He laid out his plan to rebuild the Church; expanding it, and renovations to render it beautiful and unique. At first, we were hesitant. Where could we get the money, considering that such a large amount of funders were involved? But Fr. Sanju taught us to have faith, that all is possible with God.

As 2018 approached, plans as drafted were accepted, and our community showed support to rebuild the small chapel. It was an inconceivable challenge for our priest, considering that we didn’t receive any support from the Diocese, religious congregations, or groups.

As we planned, we dreamt as one, learning how to raise funds in ways such as solicitation, raffle tickets, and dinners and concerts for a cause. On October 1st, as we welcomed the month of the Rosary, we unveiled the Church perspective, followed by a Mass.

Every piece of the materials used in our Church has its story. With Fr. Sanju’s dedication, sincerity, commitment, and determination, we - as his followers - were so inspired, as we slowly saw how faith moved us.

Spiritual revolution was transparent and observed, the only Church constituted - and considered the most beautiful - in the Diocese of Bacolod City. A global Church as we say, because it’s the very first Pallottine Church of the Philippines.

This is truly a miracle, with the efforts of our beloved priest, a one in a million kind of God’s minister. Friends, parishioners, supporters, and all feel humbly proud to see the hidden heaven in our small community.

Now, in my heart, I can say that with faith, and with God, nothing is impossible...