St. Joseph's Province, Missionaries of Compassion
St. Xavier’s Church in Lazu marked a historic milestone this week as parishioners, clergy, and guests from near and far gathered to celebrate its Golden Jubilee. The church, founded fifty years ago as a humble mission chapel, has grown into a vibrant spiritual home for the community—an achievement honored with deep reverence and joyful celebration.
The Jubilee celebrations began with a grand Eucharistic celebration presided over by His Excellency, the Bishop, whose presence added special significance to the occasion. In his homily, the Bishop reflected on the Jubilee theme, “Do as I have done” (Jn. 13:15), emphasizing the call to emulate Christ’s service, humility, and compassion.
He praised St. Xavier’s Church for embodying these values through decades of pastoral care, community outreach, and social upliftment. “This Jubilee is not only a remembrance of the past,” the Bishop reminded the congregation, “but a renewal of our mission as disciples in the world.”
Throughout the celebration, longtime parishioners and founding members were remembered with gratitude. Stories were shared of the early days when Mass was offered under a temporary shed and catechism classes were held in open courtyards. Over the years, with the dedication of priests, religious, and faithful volunteers, the parish flourished—eventually becoming a cornerstone of spiritual life in Lazu.
During the ceremony, the Bishop blessed a commemorative plaque honoring past parish priests, catechists, and community leaders whose quiet sacrifices helped build the parish’s enduring foundation.
After the liturgy, the church grounds burst into celebration. Cultural troupes performed traditional dances highlighting the rich heritage of Lazu, while choir groups—both children and adults—filled the air with hymns of praise and thanksgiving. Youth groups presented skits depicting episodes from the parish’s history, bringing laughter and nostalgia to the audience.
The parish women’s association displayed handcrafted works symbolizing faith, unity, and the resilient spirit of the community. Local families contributed traditional dishes, turning the parish courtyard into a warm fellowship meal shared by everyone in attendance.
A highlight of the event was the Bishop’s formal inauguration of the St. Xavier’s Jubilee Stewardship Initiative, a forward-looking program focused on:
Strengthening faith formation for children and youth
Expanding community service outreach to the underprivileged
Supporting sustainable parish development projects
Upskilling lay leaders for vibrant parish ministry
The initiative reflects the parish’s renewed commitment to continue Christ’s example of service, symbolically echoing the Jubilee motto.
As the day concluded with a candlelight prayer service, the glowing lights held by hundreds of faithful created a moving image of unity—one that reflected the enduring spirit of St. Xavier’s Church. The Bishop offered his final blessing, calling the community to “shine ever brighter as witnesses of Christ in Lazu.”
The Golden Jubilee of St. Xavier’s Church was not simply an anniversary; it was a living testimony of faith, community, and God’s unwavering guidance through fifty years of grace. With hearts full of gratitude and renewed resolve, the parish now steps confidently into its next chapter.