We are Called by God

web-admin June 29, 2025

We are Called by God

In this Sunday Mass Homily in Saint Michael Kalibo +Bp. Romie-Jun Peñalosa reminded us of an important truth: we are called by God. This divine calling is not just a general invitation—it is deeply personal. In fact, God invites each of us to journey with Him and ultimately to spend eternity in Heaven. Therefore, no matter what form our vocation takes, we must recognize that it comes from Him. For this reason, we are encouraged to ask in prayer: “Lord, what are You calling me to do?”

However, despite God’s loving invitation, many of us find it difficult to respond. Oftentimes, we cling to things that hold us back. Whether it’s fear of rejection, discomfort with the unknown, attachment to past responsibilities, or anxiety about letting go, these can all become barriers to answering His call.

Nevertheless, what matters most is our decision to follow God wholeheartedly. We must be willing to let go of worldly riches, personal attachments, and even relationships that hinder our spiritual journey. After all, these earthly treasures are temporary; they are not meant to be carried into eternity.

In conclusion, while God’s call may not always be easy to follow, it leads us to something far greater than anything this world can offer. Ultimately, saying “yes” to God opens the way to eternal life with Him. Let us remember that though the path may be challenging, the reward is everlasting joy in Heaven.

First Proclamation- I Kings 19: 15-16, 19-21
Second Proclamation-Galatians 5: 19-25
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 16
Gospel Reading: Luke 9: 51-62

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Celebrate the Eucharist

web-admin June 22, 2025

Celebrate the Eucharist

During this Sunday Mass Homily at Saint Michael Kalibo, Fr. Erel Villanueva reminded us to celebrate the Eucharist.

Initially, he emphasized that the Eucharist is the very heart of our Christian journey. Each time we gather to celebrate it, we are reminded that Jesus is truly present with us—not only in the sacrament, but in our daily lives. In every Eucharistic celebration, we encounter Christ: we see Him, we hear Him, and we are united with Him.

Also, Fr. Erel encouraged us to come to Mass each Sunday with hearts full of joy and gratitude. Christ gave His life so that we might be saved. In return, our most fitting response is to offer lives filled with thanksgiving, even amidst trials and difficulties.

To conclude, As we celebrate the Feast of Corpus Christi, may we deepen our appreciation for this incredible gift—Jesus offering His Body and Blood for our salvation and reconciliation. Let us thank God for His boundless love, and strive to live each day as a grateful response to His grace.

Feast of Corpus Christi- June 22, 2025

First Proclamation- Genesis 14:14-20

Second Proclamation- 1 Corinthians 11:23-30

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 111

Gospel Reading: Luke 24: 30-25

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Trinity is the Way to Love

web-admin June 15, 2025

Trinity is the Way to Love

On this Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity, Bishop Romie-Jun Peñalosa shared a powerful Sunday Mass homily at Saint Michael Parish in Kalibo, reminding us that the Holy Trinity is not only a central mystery of the Catholic faith, but also a living example of how we are called to love.

Understanding the Trinity

To begin with, the Holy Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—is one God in three divine persons. While this may seem complex, the Church teaches that these three are not separate gods, but united in perfect love and harmony.

The Trinity Within Us

Moreover, the Trinity is not distant from us. On the contrary, the divine life of the Trinity dwells within us. As Bishop Peñalosa emphasized, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit act as one, forming a dynamic relationship that moves within our hearts. As a result, we are empowered to love—not just in words, but through real action.

Love as a Way of Life

Consequently, this divine love transforms our lives. It enables us to love one another, to build communities rooted in faith, and to show compassion even to those who are difficult to love. In other words, the love of the Trinity becomes our mission.

Experiencing the Trinity Daily

Furthermore, we celebrate the Feast of the Holy Trinity not only through prayer, but through real, personal experience. We encounter:

God the Father as the Creator and source of all love,
Jesus Christ the Son as the Beloved who redeems us,
and the Holy Spirit as the living bond of love who unites us.

Living the Trinity

Therefore, as we honor Trinity Sunday, we are invited to live out this love in our daily lives. Remember this simple truth:
God is love. Jesus is the Beloved. The Holy Spirit is the love shared between the Father and the Son—and now poured into our hearts.

Trinity Sunday

First Proclamation- Isaiah 59:15-21

Second Proclamation- Romans 5:1-5

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 29

Gospel Reading: John 16:1-15

Check out our Sermon page for more homily recaps and video links to our uplifting messages. God bless!

The Holy Spirit is our Helper

web-admin June 8, 2025

The Holy Spirit is our Helper

In this Sunday Mass Homily at Saint Michael Kalibo, +Bp. Romie-Jun Peñalosa reminded us that the Holy Spirit is our Helper. On this joyful Pentecost Sunday, we celebrate the powerful moment when God empowered His Church by sending the Holy Spirit to aid us in our mission—to proclaim the Good News of salvation to all people.

To begin with, Jesus has already fulfilled His part of the mission through His life, death, and resurrection. Now, it is our turn to carry that mission forward. However, we cannot do it by our own strength. This is precisely why the Holy Spirit is our Helper. Without Him, we are left to depend on our limited human abilities and understanding.

Furthermore, the Holy Spirit—also known as the Paraclete—walks beside us. He is ever present and ever faithful, leading us in truth and wisdom. As we journey in faith, it is the Holy Spirit who strengthens, guides, and sustains us.

As we commemorate the Feast of Pentecost, let us always remember that the Holy Spirit is our Helper, given to us as a precious gift from God. He empowers us to build His Kingdom here on earth. Therefore, we must open our hearts and minds to His voice. He equips us with the courage, wisdom, and grace needed to carry out the mission entrusted to us.

Finally, today is a moment of decision. Let us choose to step out in faith—with the help of the Holy Spirit—and begin, or renew, the mission God has given us. Let us go forth with boldness, love, and unwavering trust, knowing that the Holy Spirit is our Helper, now and always.

Pentecost Sunday – June 8, 2025

First Reading: Acts 2:1-7,12-21
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 104:3-4,31-32,24
Second Reading: Romans 8:14-17
Gospel: John 15:20-27

Check out our Sermon page for more homily recaps and video links to our uplifting messages. God bless!

Ascension: Calling of Christ’s Witnesses

web-admin June 1, 2025

Ascension: Calling of Christ’s Witnesses

In today’s Sunday Mass homily at Saint Michael Church in Kalibo, Fr. Erel Villanueva shared that the significance of the Ascension is the beginning of the calling of Christ’s witnesses . We are called to be His witnesses in the world. It was at the Ascension that the Church’s mission truly began, and with it, our personal mission to proclaim the goodness of God.

People will always equate our lives in Christ based on our attitude. This calling challenges us to first believe and trust in Jesus ourselves. From there, our lives become a witness of His love. Through our actions, others see the truth of Christ’s resurrection and ascension. Whatever we are doing in life serves as the witness of Jesus’ love so that other people may hear and see Him through us.

The world mission starts at the Ascension- Christ’s time has ended, and it is now our time to continue the footprints that He has started. It is now in our hands to continue the work of Jesus. We are not only called but also empowered and blessed to be His witnesses, carrying forward the mission He entrusted to us.

Ascension Sunday- June 1, 2025

First Reading: Acts 1:1-11

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 47:1-9

Second Reading: Ephesians 1:15-23

Gospel: Luke 24:45-53

Homily by Fr. Erel Villanueva

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Live in Peace

web-admin May 25, 2025

Live in Peace

In this Sunday Mass Homily in Saint Michael Kalibo, +Bp. Romie- Jun Peñalosa reminded us to live in peace. Every Sunday under the season of Easter teaches us different values, such as faith and love. And for this Sunday, it emphasize that living a new life comes with peace. Peace is something that we all need, and as we live a new life, we are now living the life with peace.

Peace comes when we have our community with us. Hence, the first institution that He developed is family. In our families, we learn that we could only live if we are together. Also, having peace means that we embrace God’s love, and embracing His loves comes if we love His Word. When God and Jesus enter in your heart, they will find home in you, making you live with peace.

As said by +Abp. Ricardo Alcaraz (+), Peace is the fullness of God’s blessing”. God is building a home in your heart. The Spirit of God is the Spirit of Peace- teaching us to love God’s Word.

Sixth Sunday of Easter – May 25, 2025

First Proclamation: Acts 16:9-15

Second Proclamation: Revelation 21:1-2,22-27

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 67:1-3,4-6,7

Gospel Proclamation: John 14:23-29

Homily by +Bp. Romie- Jun Peñalosa

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Experience God’s Love

web-admin May 18, 2025

Experience God’s Love

In this Sunday’s homily, +Bp. Romie-Jun Peñalosa reminds us to experience God’s love. Drawing from the Gospel, he reflects on Jesus’ commandment to “love one another as I have loved you.” This is not merely a suggestion, but a divine standard—we can only truly love others if we love like Christ.

This Christ-like love is not easy. Too often, we fail to recognize the fullness of God’s love because we only seek Him in times of hardship. But His love surrounds us at all times—even in the midst of our trials and ordinary days.

God’s love is rooted in His perfect goodness. He loves us in the best way possible, not based on what we deserve, but based on His mercy. As recipients of such love, we are called to reflect it in our own lives—especially through forgiveness. Just as God forgives us, we too are called to forgive—even our enemies.

+Bp. Peñalosa encourages us to manifest Agape love—the selfless, unconditional love that God offers to each of us. Let this love be the foundation of how we treat others, so that in loving like Christ, we become witnesses of His love in the world.

Fifth Sunday of Easter – May 18, 2025

First Proclamation: Acts 13:44-52

Second Proclamation: Revelation 21:1-6

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 145:1-3,4-6,7-9,10-12

Gospel Proclamation: John 13:31-35

Homily by +Bp. Romie- Jun Peñalosa

Check out our Sermon page for more homily recaps and video links to our uplifting messages. God bless!

Live with the Shepherd

web-admin May 11, 2025

Live with the Shepherd

In his homily this Sunday at Saint Michael Cathedral in Kalibo, Bishop Romie-Jun Peñalosa encourages us to learn how to live with the Shepherd. Just as a shepherd knows each of his sheep by name, and the sheep recognize and follow only their shepherd’s voice, we too are invited to build a deep, personal relationship with God. Without the Shepherd, the sheep become lost—and in the same way, we cannot thrive apart from God’s presence in our lives.

Hearing God’s Voice Amid Distractions

God, our Good Shepherd, constantly speaks to us. However, amid life’s many distractions and the competing voices around us, we often find it difficult to hear Him clearly. At times, we even end up following voices that draw us away from His will.

Walking in New Life with Christ

Nevertheless, the resurrection of Christ calls us into a new life—one that we are meant to live with Him and through Him. In order to walk in this new life, we must choose to stay close to the Shepherd. Jesus, our Good Shepherd, leads us with love and faithfulness.

God’s Guidance Through Others

Furthermore, He often guides us through the people He places in our lives—especially our parents. By learning to listen to and obey our parents, we build the foundation for following God and respecting other authorities throughout our lives.

The Blessings of Following Jesus

Moreover, following Jesus brings great blessings. As Psalm 23 reminds us, those who follow the Lord will lack no good thing. He provides for us abundantly and stays with us even through the darkest valleys.

Growing in Faith and Obedience

Therefore, let us continue to grow in our knowledge of Christ and learn to attune our hearts to His voice. The more we listen to Him, the more we will learn to follow Him faithfully—each and every day of our lives. Together, let us learn to live with the Shepherd.

4th Sunday of Easter- May 11, 2025

First Proclamation: Acts 13:26-39

Second Proclamation: Revelation 7:9-14

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm Psalm 23:1-2,3-4,5-6

Gospel Proclamation: John 10:22-30

Homily by +Bp. Romie- Jun Peñalosa

Check out our Sermon page for more homily recaps and video links to our uplifting messages. God bless!

Trust in the Love of Jesus

web-admin May 5, 2025

Trust in the Love of Jesus

In his Sunday Mass homily at Saint Michael, Kalibo, +Bp. Romie-Jun Peñalosa reminded us to place our trust in the love of Jesus. At the heart of the Gospel is Peter’s return to his former life after the death and resurrection of Jesus. He was uncertain whether his love for Christ was still welcome after having denied Him three times. Yet, Jesus received Peter with open arms. That encounter gave Peter the strength to embrace his calling and love Jesus wholeheartedly for the rest of his life.

In our own lives, we often experience failures in relationships that leave us unsettled. But we must always remember: Jesus loves us—and we love Him. That truth gives us the courage to follow Him. Life is filled with thorns, trials, and hardships, but Christ’s love is far greater than them all. Trust in the love of Jesus.

3rd Sunday of Easter- May 4, 2025

First Proclamation: Acts 9:1-16

Second Proclamation: Revelation 5:11-13

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 30:1-2,3-4,5-6,7-8,9-10,11-12

Gospel Proclamation: John 21:1-14

Homily by +Bp. Romie- Jun Peñalosa

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Stay Focused, Stay Together, Think Twice!

web-admin April 27, 2025

Stay Focused, Stay Together, Think Twice!

2nd Sunday of Easter – April 27, 2025

First Proclamation: Acts 5: 27-32

Second Proclamation: Revelation 1: 4-8

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 118: 2-4,13-15,21-23

Gospel Proclamation: John 20: 19-31

Homily by +Bp. Romie- Jun Peñalosa

In his homily this Sunday, +Bp. Romie-Jun Peñalosa reminded us of three important things this Easter season: stay focused on Jesus, stay together with our community, and think twice before we act.

God is always focused on us. Like a loving father, He knows what we need and cares deeply for us. Whatever we’re going through, we can bring it to Jesus—He will provide and take care of us. But the question is: How do we respond to God’s love?

Stay Focused on Jesus

Even when life is hard, don’t lose sight of Jesus. He rose from the dead to give us hope. His love never changes, and His promises still stand.

Stay with the Community

We are not meant to go through life alone. We grow stronger when we support each other. “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together. And if you want to get to the right place, walk with the right people.”

Think Twice Before We Act

Our words and actions matter. They stay in people’s hearts. Before doing or saying anything, pause and ask if it brings love and peace.

Check out our Sermon page for more homily recaps and video links to our uplifting messages. God bless!

Christ is Risen!

web-admin April 20, 2025

Christ is Risen

Easter Sunday – April 20, 2025

First Reading: Acts 10:34-43

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 118

Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:19-26

Gospel Reading: Luke 24:1-12

Homily by +Bp. Romie- Jun Peñalosa

In his powerful Easter Sunday homily, Bishop Romie-Jun Peñalosa joyfully proclaimed the central truth of the Christian faith: Christ is risen!

Looking at the Biblical account of the resurrection, Bishop Peñalosa highlighted two contrasting perspectives. On one hand, there is the perspective of the disciples. They saw, heard, and personally experienced the risen Christ. As a result, they boldly proclaimed the life-changing message: Christ is risen.

On the other hand, the Pharisees spread a very different story. They claimed that Jesus’ disciples had stolen His body while the guards were asleep. Even today, many continue to believe this alternative explanation.

At this point in his homily, Bishop Romie-Jun posed two important questions: Whose version do you believe? And whose version will you proclaim? These are not just theological questions—they are life-defining choices. One leads to doubt, confusion, and spiritual death. The other leads to faith, hope, and everlasting life.

Therefore, believe today that Christ is risen, because our lives are deeply connected to His. If Christ is resurrected, then we, too, are resurrected with Him. This truth offers not only hope for the future but also purpose for today.

Check out our Sermon page for more homily recaps and video links to our uplifting messages. God bless!

Focus on your Relationships

web-admin April 13, 2025

Focus on your Relationships

Palm Sunday- April 13, 2025

First Reading: Isaiah 50:4-9

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 31:9&11, 12-13, 14-15

Second Reading: Philippians 2:5-11

Gospel Reading: Luke 23:1-25

Homily by +Bp. Romie- Jun Peñalosa

In his homily this Sunday, Bishop Romie-Jun Peñalosa reminded us that Holy Week is a sacred time to focus on what truly matters—our relationships: with God, with our family, and with our friends.

The first reading foretells the suffering of Christ, calling us to place our trust in Him even in the most difficult moments of our lives.

The second reading reminds us of the essence of Christian living: to empty ourselves and detach from worldly things, just as Christ did.

In reflecting on today’s Gospel, Bishop Romie-Jun highlighted two key relationships: Our relationship with our friends and enemies. Friendships rooted in Christ can withstand trials and challenges. When Christ is the foundation, even strained or tested relationships can endure and grow stronger. On our enemies, +Bp. Romie reminds us that as Christians, we are called not to repay hatred with hatred, but to love and bless those who oppose us. Through continued love and grace, we become instruments of God’s mercy, leading even our enemies closer to Christ.

Let this Holy Week be a time of healing, reflection, and renewal—of drawing nearer to God and to one another in the spirit of Christ’s self-giving love.

Check out our Sermon page for more homily recaps and video links to our uplifting messages. God bless!