Gift boxes contain etched glass plaques that Bishop Larry Silva distributed to those celebrating anniversaries. (HCH photo | Darlene Dela Cruz)
Dozens of well-wishers gathered at Co-Cathedral of St. Theresa May 3 to honor 19 jubilarians who are celebrating 70, 60, 50 and 25 years of service in religious and priestly life this year.
The co-cathedral was festively decked with colorful springtime flowers, and a spirit of gratitude flowed throughout the congregation as Bishop Larry Silva celebrated the mid-morning liturgy.
In his homily, the bishop honored the jubilarians with a reference to the day’s Gospel. The Scripture reading recalled Jesus’ words to the apostle Philip, “Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever believes in me will do the works that I do, and will do greater ones than these.”
Bishop Silva said the jubilarians, in their various ministries, have certainly done “amazing work over the years.” Their dedication to serving others exemplifies Jesus’ call in the Gospel.
“Jesus healed the sick, he drove out demons … he even raised the dead,” the bishop said. “Our brothers and sisters, because they are one with Jesus, because they have dedicated themselves to being part of his body, to being active parts in that body,” they too have helped to heal others and lift up spirits deadened by despair.
“We thank God this day for our jubilarians and all that they have done and all that they have given as believers,” he added.