By SIDTP SoCom

Published on December 8, 2024

TANAY, RIZAL— In celebration of camaraderie and the Christmas spirit, San Ildefonso de Toledo Parish, Tanay, Rizal hosted its annual Family Day and Parish Christmas Party on December 8, 2024, at the San Ildefonso College (SIC) Gymnasium.

The event followed the 6:30 PM Mass marking the Second Sunday of Advent.

The gathering brought together all parish workers and ministry members, fostering unity while embracing an environmentally friendly theme inspired by Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’.

Ministries showcased creative presentations, with members donning costumes crafted from recycled materials. The exchange gifts tradition also took on a sustainable twist, featuring recyclable items as a reflection of the parish’s commitment to ecological awareness.

Earlier in the day, a parish-wide Advent recollection and formation session titled “Hello, Love Again”, led by Rev. Fr. Ferdinand C. Delatado, set the tone for the celebration.

The session, attended by all church workers, served as a moment of spiritual reflection and preparation for the upcoming Jubilee Year 2025, deepening participants’ faith and commitment to their ministry roles.

The evening’s festivities began with ministry groups presenting heartfelt performances that echoed the themes of hope, care for creation, and the love of Christ.

Laughter and music filled the SIC Gymnasium as attendees reflected on their shared mission to care for the environment and strengthen the bonds within the parish community.

By incorporating sustainability into the celebration, the parish answered Pope Francis’ call to care for “our common home,” reminding participants of the importance of environmental stewardship not only during Advent but throughout their daily lives.

The Family Day and Christmas Party stood as a testament to the vibrant spirit of San Ildefonso de Toledo Parish, marking the Advent season with joy, faith, and a renewed commitment to meaningful action.

As the night concluded, parishioners left with hearts full of gratitude, ready to embrace the blessings and challenges of the coming Jubilee Year 2025.