Cathedral Church of St. Michael's

ICCEC Kalibo, Aklan, Philippines

[saintmichaelkalibo]

God entrusts us with the responsibility to continue His work in the world. By our words and actions, we can bring hope, healing, and compassion to those in need. Indeed, God’s mission is also our mission.

Share God's Compassion In this Sunday Mass Homily at Saint Michael Kalibo, +Bp. Romie-Jun Peñalosa reminds us to share God's compassion. Today’s Gospel highlights our mission to proclaim the Good News. More importantly, it reveals that the compassion of Jesus is meant to be shared. God shows His compassion to each of us, and in turn, He calls us to share God's compassion with others. Christ’s mission is to redeem people from sin. Today, that mission continues through us, the Church. Therefore, we are called to preach the Gospel, care for the sick, and confront evil without expecting anything in return. As disciples of Christ, we must become instruments of His mercy and love. Furthermore, God entrusts us with the responsibility to continue His work in the world. By our words and actions, we can bring hope, healing, and compassion to those in need. Indeed, God’s mission is also our mission. When we faithfully answer His call, we not only proclaim the Good News but also share God's compassion with everyone we encounter. Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time June 14, 2026 First Reading: Exodus 19: 1-9 Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 50 Second Reading: Romans 5:1-8 Gospel Reading: Matthew 10:1-8 Homily by +Bp. Romie- Jun Peñalosa   Check out our Sermon page for more homily recaps and video links to our uplifting messages. God bless! https://www.saintmichaelkalibo.com/sermons/share-gods-compassion/?feed_id=893&_unique_id=6a2e28775c4e2

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Through His presence in the Eucharist, Jesus assures us that He will never leave nor forsake us. Even as we grow old, become weak, or face life's challenges, He remains with us. Indeed, God's Presence is in the Eucharist, offering comfort, strength, and hope to all who believe.

God's Presence is in the Eucharist In this Sunday Mass homily at Saint Michael in Kalibo, Bishop Romie-Jun Peñalosa emphasized that God's Presence is in the Eucharist. Today, we celebrate the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ, also known as the Feast of Corpus Christi. This special feast reminds us that Jesus is truly present in the Holy Communion we receive during the Eucharistic celebration. Reflecting on this truth, Bishop Romie-Jun highlighted three important realities about the Eucharist. First, God's Presence is in the Eucharist because the Eucharist is all about presence. It is God's embrace for each of us—a tangible way of experiencing His love. While we cannot physically see or touch God, we encounter Him through the Body and Blood of Jesus that we receive in Holy Communion. Second, God chose to become powerless for our sake. He came down to earth as a helpless and innocent child so that He could fully relate to our human experience. Through His Son, Jesus Christ, God draws close to us in our vulnerability. Rather than rejecting our weakness, He welcomes it. As we recognize our own limitations, we learn to love Jesus more deeply and grow in intimacy with Him. Finally, the Eucharist carries a promise. Through His presence in the Eucharist, Jesus assures us that He will never leave nor forsake us. Even as we grow old, become weak, or face life's challenges, He remains with us. Indeed, God's Presence is in the Eucharist, offering comfort, strength, and hope to all who believe. Feast of the Corpus Christi| June 7, 2026 First Reading: Genesis 14:14-20 Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 111:1-9 Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 11:23-30 Gospel Reading: Luke 24:30-35 Homily by +Bp. Romie- Jun Peñalosa Check out our Sermon page for more homily recaps and video links to our uplifting messages. God bless! https://www.saintmichaelkalibo.com/sermons/gods-presence-is-in-the-eucharist/?feed_id=884&_unique_id=6a24ed00281ec

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A solemnity marks one of the most significant mysteries of the Christian faith. Today, we honor a theological mystery—something that Christ has revealed to us.

Trinity: A Theological Mystery In his Sunday Mass homily at Saint Michael Kalibo, +Bp Romie-Jun Peñalosa emphasized that the Trinity is a theological mystery. This Sunday, the Church celebrates the Solemnity of the Holy Trinity. A solemnity marks one of the most significant mysteries of the Christian faith. Today, we honor a theological mystery—something that Christ has revealed to us. While we can understand it to a certain extent, we can never fully comprehend its depth. The mystery of the Holy Trinity is so rich that the more we reflect on it, the deeper our understanding becomes and the more we learn to appreciate it. Furthermore, as followers of God, we must know our identity in Christ Jesus. God Himself revealed His identity to humanity, and He created us in His image and likeness. Without a clear understanding of who we are, we cannot fully recognize our God-given potential. Therefore, reflecting on the Trinity reminds us of our true identity as God’s children, created in His image and likeness. Moreover, living in Christ means living in communion with others. We are not meant to journey through life alone. Just as the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are one, we are also called to live in unity and love. The Holy Trinity reveals God as a communion of persons: the Father as the Lover, the Son as the Beloved, and the Holy Spirit as the Love that unites them. Through this divine relationship, the Trinity teaches us the beauty of love, unity, and community. Trinity Sunday| May 31, 2026 First Proclamation: Genesis 1:26-31, 1-4 Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 8:1-3; 4-6; 7-9 Second Proclamation: 2 Corinthians 13:5-13 Gospel Proclamation: Matthew 28:16-20 Homily by +Bp. Romie- Jun Peñalosa Check out our Sermon page for more homily recaps and video links to our uplifting messages. God bless! https://www.saintmichaelkalibo.com/sermons/trinity-a-theological-mystery/?feed_id=875&_unique_id=6a1bb91e9dcb5

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Through the Holy Spirit, we receive courage, strength, and boldness to keep our faith alive. Moreover, the Holy Spirit guides the Church’s mission and inspires us to continue serving God faithfully.

Work with the Holy Spirit During the Sunday Mass homily at Saint Michael Cathedral, Bp. Romie-Jun Peñalosa reminded us to work with the Holy Spirit. Today, we celebrate the Feast of Pentecost, the culmination of the Easter season. Long before Pentecost, the Lord had already been preparing us through the seasons we have journeyed through. First, Good Friday reminds us of death and the reality that our earthly lives will end. Then, Easter proclaims the gift of new life through Christ’s resurrection. After this, the Ascension reminds us that Jesus brought humanity into heaven as He ascended to the Father. This Pentecost, we are reminded that God gives us a new Spirit. In the Gospel, Jesus breathed on His disciples and bestowed upon them the Holy Spirit. However, before receiving this gift, the disciples hid behind locked doors because they feared the Jews. In the same way, we sometimes allow fear, pain, and past wounds to imprison us. Yet Jesus has already conquered and healed these burdens. Therefore, instead of focusing on our fears and struggles, we must work with the Holy Spirit, who continually moves and acts within us. As Christians, we are called to step out, stop hiding, and share our faith with others. Through the Holy Spirit, we receive courage, strength, and boldness to keep our faith alive. Moreover, the Holy Spirit guides the Church’s mission and inspires us to continue serving God faithfully. When we choose to work with the Holy Spirit, we become witnesses of Christ’s love and instruments of hope for others. Pentecost Sunday- May 24, 2026 First Proclamation: Acts 2:1-7, 12-21 Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 104:13-24 Second Proclamation: 1 Corinthians 12:3-13 Gospel Proclamation: John 20:19-23 https://www.saintmichaelkalibo.com/sermons/work-with-the-holy-spirit/?feed_id=866&_unique_id=6a12b392c80d9

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The Beauty of Ascension lies in knowing that Christ never truly leaves us, because He remains present through the Holy Spirit.

The Beauty of Ascension In this Sunday Mass homily at Saint Michael Kalibo, Bp. Romie-Jun Peñalosa reminded us about The Beauty of Ascension. Usually, saying goodbye can feel painful and emotional. However, today’s Gospel teaches us that goodbyes can also lead to something greater. Jesus told His disciples that the Scriptures had to be fulfilled and that something wonderful would happen as He ascended into heaven. Instead of despair, the disciples experienced joy because Jesus helped them understand The Beauty of Ascension. As a result, they praised and worshiped Him with grateful hearts. Moreover, the Ascension reminds us that Christ’s departure was not the end. Rather, it opened the way for the coming of the Holy Spirit. Through the Holy Spirit, God continues to guide, strengthen, and empower us each day. Therefore, we should pray constantly for deeper understanding and stronger faith. Let this be our prayer: “Lord, give us the grace to understand.” Pray this every morning so that we may realize why Jesus had to go — so that the Holy Spirit could enter our lives and transform our hearts. Finally, let us always remember that we already stand in a position of victory through Christ. If we believe in Jesus and allow the Holy Spirit to dwell within us, He will lead us toward our purpose. When we surrender ourselves completely to God, the Holy Spirit empowers us to fulfill our mission and live with lasting joy. Indeed, The Beauty of Ascension lies in knowing that Christ never truly leaves us, because He remains present through the Holy Spirit. Seventh Sunday of Easter- May 17, 2026 First Proclamation: Acts 1:1-11 Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 47:1-9 Second Proclamation: Ephesians 1:15-23 Gospel Proclamation: Luke 24:45-53 Check out our Sermon page for more homily recaps and video links to our uplifting messages. God bless!       https://www.saintmichaelkalibo.com/sermons/the-beauty-of-ascension/?feed_id=857&_unique_id=6a093e779c6b3

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We must love God by obeying Him—not out of fear or mere compliance, but out of sincere love and gratitude for all He has done for us.

Love God by Obeying His Commands In his Sunday Mass homily at Saint Michael in Kalibo, +Bp. Romie-Jun Peñalosa reminded the faithful that we truly love God when we obey His commands. The Gospel shows Jesus preparing His disciples for the coming of the Holy Spirit. He tells them, “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” Through these words, Jesus clearly connects love and obedience. God gave His commandments to the Israelites as part of His covenant with them. This covenant was not simply a set of rules but a relationship built on God’s love for His people. Because God loves us so deeply and faithfully, our proper response is to obey Him. We do not follow His commands merely because we are required to do so, but because we recognize His goodness and love. However, obedience without love loses its meaning. If we obey God only out of compliance, our actions become empty and mechanical. God desires more than outward obedience; He wants a genuine relationship with us. Love gives life and meaning to every commandment He asks us to follow. At the same time, we should not obey God out of fear alone. Scripture reminds us that “perfect love casts out fear.” God’s perfect love should guide and shape everything we do. When love becomes the center of our faith, obedience no longer feels burdensome. Therefore, we must love God by obeying Him—not out of fear or mere compliance, but out of sincere love and gratitude for all He has done for us. Sixth Sunday of Easter - May 10, 2026 First Proclamation: Acts 17:22-31 Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 66 Second Proclamation: 1 Peter 3:8-20 Gospel Proclamation: John 14:15-21 Check out our Sermon page for more homily recaps and video links to our uplifting messages. God bless!   https://www.saintmichaelkalibo.com/sermons/love-god-by-obeying-his-commands/?feed_id=848&_unique_id=6a00017a25d2c

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Recognize that Jesus is truly the Way, the Truth, and the Life. This journey begins with sincere faith and deep trust, leading us to walk confidently in His ways each day.

Jesus: the Way, the Truth, and the Life. During the Sunday Mass homily at Saint Michael Kalibo, +Bp. Romie-Jun Peñalosa reminded us that Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. At the heart of our faith lies Christ’s death and resurrection. In the Gospel, Jesus begins with a comforting command: “Do not let your hearts be troubled.” Trouble comes from fear—of death. At times, we worry about our health or the uncertainties of life. However, we must not allow fear to dominate our hearts; instead, we are called to choose faith. Moreover, we sometimes feel lost and uncertain, asking ourselves where to go or what path to take. In these moments, Jesus reassures us that He Himself is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Therefore, we are invited to let Christ live in us so that we may fully live in Him. As we grow in faith, we begin to reflect His life in our daily actions. By trusting Him and opening our hearts, we allow His presence to guide our thoughts, choices, and relationships. Consequently, living in Christ becomes a witness to others. When people see His love and truth in us, they come to recognize that Jesus is truly the Way, the Truth, and the Life. This journey begins with sincere faith and deep trust, leading us to walk confidently in His ways each day. https://www.saintmichaelkalibo.com/sermons/jesus-the-way-the-truth-and-the-life/?feed_id=839&_unique_id=69f6c97793e0b

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Jesus: The Good Shepherd not only leads us to what we need but also walks with us every step of the journey. With Him before us, beside us, and even behind us, we can move forward with confidence, knowing we are always under His loving care.

Jesus: The Good Shepherd This Sunday Mass Homily at Saint Michael in Kalibo, Bishop Romie-Jun Peñalosa reminded us that Jesus: The Good Shepherd stands at the heart of the Gospel. He emphasized that Jesus reveals His character as the Good Shepherd who leads, guides, and protects His flock. More than that, He lovingly provides for His sheep. Because He knows what is best for us, we can trust that His plans are greater than our own. Indeed, in Him, we lack no good thing. As His sheep, we are called to listen attentively to the voice of Jesus: The Good Shepherd. During this Easter season, we live out the joy of the Resurrection by following where He leads. At times, His voice challenges us, especially when it calls us to change or correction. Nevertheless, we must choose to obey, trusting that His guidance shapes us according to God’s will. By listening and responding faithfully, we begin to experience the fullness of life that Christ promises. Furthermore, we are not meant to keep this relationship to ourselves. As sheep of Jesus: The Good Shepherd, we are also sent to share His Word with others. In doing so, we invite them to encounter His goodness and care. Through our witness, others may come to know the Shepherd who never abandons His flock. Ultimately, Jesus: The Good Shepherd not only leads us to what we need but also walks with us every step of the journey. With Him before us, beside us, and even behind us, we can move forward with confidence, knowing we are always under His loving care. Fourth Sunday of Easter April 26, 2026 First Proclamation: Nehemiah 9:6-15 Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 23 Second Proclamation: 1 Peter 2:19-25 Gospel Proclamation: John 10:1-10 Homily by +Bp. Romie- Jun Peñalosa Check out our Sermon page for more homily recaps and video links to our uplifting messages. God bless! https://www.saintmichaelkalibo.com/sermons/jesus-the-good-shepherd/?feed_id=830&_unique_id=69ed9d05ea598

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Wherever we go, God walks with you, calling us to walk with others as well.

God Walks with You In this Sunday Mass homily at Saint Michael in Kalibo, Bishop Romie-Jun Peñalosa reminded us of a powerful truth: God walks with you, the heart of today’s Gospel. At times, we miss what God asks of us because we choose a different direction. Like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, we sometimes walk away from where God calls us to be. However, even when we take the wrong path, the Lord still comes near and walks with you. He meets us where we are, embracing us with all our flaws and struggles. God loves us as we are, yet He also invites us to grow. He never leaves us; instead, He stays beside us and gently transforms us through His grace. Moreover, Bishop Peñalosa emphasized the importance of attending church every Sunday. Knowing God through His Word is essential, but it is not enough. We encounter His love and mercy most deeply in the Holy Eucharist. In the Gospel, Jesus revealed Himself when He broke the bread before the disciples. In the same way, although we do not see Him physically, we meet Him in Holy Communion and come to recognize His presence in our lives. Finally, he encouraged us to take part in the mission as a way of living out God’s love. Walk with those who cannot come to church. Listen to their struggles and share in their journey. In doing so, they will experience Jesus through you—just as the disciples encountered Him on the road. Indeed, wherever we go, God walks with you, calling us to walk with others as well. Third Sunday of Easter- April 19, 2026 First Proclamation: Acts 2:29-36 Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 116 Second Proclamation: 1 Peter 1:13-21 Gospel Proclamation: Luke 24:13-35 https://www.saintmichaelkalibo.com/sermons/god-walks-with-you/?feed_id=821&_unique_id=69e4574256b0d

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God’s Peace is a Gift—an assurance of His presence, a grace rooted in forgiveness, and a fruit of trusting Him completely. Therefore, if we truly want to grow in faith, we must first receive and nurture this gift of peace within our hearts.

God’s Peace is a Gift In this Sunday Mass homily at Saint Michael Kalibo, Fr. Erel Villanueva reminded us of a powerful truth: God’s Peace is a Gift. Today’s Gospel clearly shows that God’s Peace is a Gift freely given to us. From it, we can learn three important things about this gift of peace. Peace Begins Within First, God’s Peace is a Gift that begins internally. We often worry whenever problems arise in our lives. However, we are called to turn inward and receive the peace that God offers. This peace assures us that He remains with us even in the midst of difficulties. Therefore, we must cultivate the mindset that Jesus is alive and present, so we can face our struggles with calmness and trust. Peace is Rooted in Forgiveness Second, God’s Peace is a Gift rooted in forgiveness. After Jesus was crucified, the disciples hid in fear, locking themselves away to avoid those who opposed Him. We also sometimes lock the doors of our hearts because of guilt, fear, or pain. Yet, we are invited to open those doors and surrender everything to the Lord, trusting that God has already forgiven us for our sins. In turn, we must also forgive others, just as Jesus has forgiven us. Moreover, just as Jesus renewed and commissioned His disciples, He now calls us to become modern-day disciples- sharing the Good News to others. Peace Grows Through Trust Finally, God’s Peace is a Gift that grows through our trust in Him. True peace flows from a deep and abiding trust in God. When we strengthen our faith, we learn to rely on Him in every situation. As a result, we can face life’s challenges with confidence, knowing that God walks with us and fights for us. By fully surrendering to Him, we allow His peace to fill our hearts. Receiving the Gift of Peace In the end, God’s Peace is a Gift—an assurance of His presence, a grace rooted in forgiveness, and a fruit of trusting Him completely. Therefore, if we truly want to grow in faith, we must first receive and nurture this gift of peace within our hearts. Second Sunday of Easter- April 12, 2026 First Proclamation: Acts 2:22-28 Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 16 Second Proclamation: 1 Peter 1:3-9 Gospel Proclamation: John 20:19-31   Check out our Sermon page for more homily recaps and video links to our uplifting messages. God bless! https://www.saintmichaelkalibo.com/sermons/gods-peace-is-a-gift/?feed_id=812&_unique_id=69db19845316b

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As followers of Christ, we must put on the full armor of God: the Belt of Truth, the Breastplate of Righteousness, the Shoes of the Gospel of Peace, the Shield of Faith, and the Helmet of Salvation. God sent His Son to redeem us, so let us set our minds on things above, not on earthly things.

Clothe Yourself with God's Glory and Power In this Sunday Mass homily at Saint Michael Kalibo, +Bp. Romie-Jun Peñalosa calls us to clothe ourselves with God's Glory and Power. He reflects on a detail from the Resurrection: the neatly folded linen cloth left in the empty tomb. The cloth that had covered Jesus’ body lay separately from the handkerchief that had wrapped His head. First, the linen connects to the practice of the High Priests in the Old Testament. Only the High Priest could enter the Holy of Holies to offer sacrifice for the people’s sins. After completing the atonement, he removed his vestments. In the same way, Jesus, through His Resurrection—has fully atoned for our sins. The tomb becomes a temple, and through His blood, He brings us salvation. Second, the folded linen serves as evidence of the Resurrection. At that time, false claims spread that the disciples had stolen Jesus’ body by His disciples. However, the orderly arrangement of the burial cloths, witnessed by Peter and John—clearly points to the truth: Jesus truly rose from the dead. Finally, the linen invites a deeper spiritual reflection. When Jesus rose, He left behind garments made by human hands and was clothed instead in the Glory of God. In the same way, we are called to leave behind worldly attachments and clothe ourselves with God's Glory and Power. Therefore, as followers of Christ, we must put on the full armor of God: the Belt of Truth, the Breastplate of Righteousness, the Shoes of the Gospel of Peace, the Shield of Faith, and the Helmet of Salvation. God sent His Son to redeem us, so let us set our minds on things above, not on earthly things. Now, the question remains: What garments will you wear? Will you choose the clothing of God’s glory and power, or the passing things of this world? Check out our Sermon page for more homily recaps and video links to our uplifting messages. God bless! https://www.saintmichaelkalibo.com/sermons/clothe-yourself-with-gods-glory-and-power/?feed_id=803&_unique_id=69d1c3577f2ea

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Thus, this Holy Week: Focus on the Inner Reality invites us to look within—to renew our prayer, to trust in God’s will, and to stop denying Jesus. Instead, may we repent and sincerely lament our sins.

Holy Week: Focus on Inward Reality. In this Sunday Mass homily at Saint Michael Kalibo, +Bp. Romie-Jun Peñalosa reminded us that this Holy Week: Focus on the Inner Reality. Today, we celebrate Palm Sunday. In ancient times, processions with branches symbolized a king returning home victorious from battle. Similarly, as Jesus approached Jerusalem, people welcomed Him with palm branches. As we commemorate this day, many of us observe rituals with blessed palms—placing them on windows, doors, or altars to ward off harm. However, this Holy Week: Focus on the Inner Reality calls us to go beyond rituals and symbols. Instead, we must allow Jesus to enter our hearts, remembering that He brings love, justice, and peace. In today’s Passion Gospel, two significant moments appear three times. First, Jesus prays, “Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me; yet, not my will but yours be done.” Though He prays repeatedly, the Father does not take away His suffering. Likewise, there are moments when God seems silent in our prayers. Therefore, we must reevaluate how we pray and learn to depend more deeply on His grace each day. Second, Peter denies Jesus three times. Indeed, none of us can claim to love perfectly as Jesus did, for in many ways, we also deny Him. While we may not deny Him in words, our actions often do—especially when we refuse to forgive. When we reject a neighbor who has wronged us, we also turn away from Christ. Thus, this Holy Week: Focus on the Inner Reality invites us to look within—to renew our prayer, to trust in God’s will, and to stop denying Jesus. Instead, may we repent and sincerely lament our sins. Theme: “We are committed to encourage people to pray because our Lord Jesus Christ never gives up on us. First Reading: Isaiah 50:4-9 Psalm 31:9-10, 11-12, 13-14, 15 Second Reading: Philippians 2:5-11 Gospel Reading: Matthew 21:1-17   Check out our Sermon page for more homily recaps and video links to our uplifting messages. God bless!   https://www.saintmichaelkalibo.com/sermons/holy-week-focus-on-inward-reality/?feed_id=794&_unique_id=69c8a1dc43adb

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As we continue our journey, may we always remember: God’s delay is not God’s denial, but His loving way of preparing something greater.

God’s Delay is not God’s Denial In this Sunday Mass homily at Saint Michael Kalibo, Fr. Erel Villanueva emphasized a powerful truth: God’s delay is not God’s denial. From the outset, he reminded the faithful that God always works according to His time, His will, and His purpose—not ours. Therefore, we must learn to develop patience as we wait for Him to fulfill our deepest desires. In the Gospel, Martha expressed her belief that Lazarus would rise again in the resurrection. However, Jesus redirected her understanding by declaring that He Himself is the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in Him will live and will never die. Through this, Jesus revealed that His power is not limited to the future but is present here and now. Likewise, this message applies directly to us. We must believe in what Jesus can do, even when His timing differs from our expectations. In today’s fast-paced world, we often crave instant results—even in our prayers. Yet God invites us to trust and remain faithful. Indeed, God’s delay is not God’s denial; rather, it is an opportunity for us to grow in faith. Furthermore, Jesus’ resurrection is not just a past event; it remains ever-present—alive in the past, active in the present, and certain in the future. Because of this, we can face life with hope and confidence. Every problem we encounter comes with God’s grace and solution. Ultimately, those who truly believe in Jesus should not lose hope. Instead, they must remain faithful and become doers of His Word. As we continue our journey, may we always remember: God’s delay is not God’s denial, but His loving way of preparing something greater. Fifth Sunday of Lent - March 22, 2026 First Proclamation: Ezekiel 37:1-14 Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 130 Second Proclamation: Romans 8:8-11 Gospel Proclamation: John 11:18-27 Check out our Sermon page for more homily recaps and video links to our uplifting messages. God bless!   https://www.saintmichaelkalibo.com/sermons/gods-delay-is-not-gods-denial/?feed_id=785&_unique_id=69bf5a151a4c9

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Walk in the light—with truth, humility, and love—as we continue to See the Light and Love of Jesus.

See Jesus' Light and Love In his Sunday Mass homily at Saint Michael Parish in Kalibo, +Bp. Romie-Jun Peñalosa reminded the faithful to See the Light and Love of Jesus in their daily lives. First of all, miracles begin to happen when we truly listen to God. Today’s Gospel highlights this powerful lesson through the story of the man born blind. In this encounter, we are reminded that God intentionally seeks a relationship with us. He knows every detail of our struggles and understands what is best for us. More importantly, God looks upon us with mercy and compassion. Therefore, every time we listen to His voice and follow His Word, miracles unfold in our lives. During this Lenten season, we are especially invited to make time and space to listen to God more deeply. When we listen and faithfully act on what He says, not only do miracles occur, but something even greater happens. We begin to See the Light and Love of Jesus more clearly. Like the man who was once blind, we receive the grace to see what God sees. Indeed, the greatest miracle is the opening of our physical and spiritual eyes so that we may recognize God even in the midst of our struggles. Furthermore, Bishop Peñalosa emphasized that we need two important lights in life: the Light of Truth and the Light of Love. The Light of Truth allows us to recognize Christ, who sees beyond appearances and looks into the heart. Meanwhile, the Light of Love empowers us to love others as God loves us. Finally, he concluded with the message of 1 John 2:9–11, encouraging everyone to walk in the light—with truth, humility, and love—as we continue to See the Light and Love of Jesus. Fourth Sunday of Lent - March 15, 2026 First Proclamation: I Samuel 16: 1-7 Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 23 Second Proclamation: Ephesians 5: 1-10 Gospel Proclamation: John 9:1-11 Check out our Sermon page for more homily recaps and video links to our uplifting messages. God bless! https://www.saintmichaelkalibo.com/sermons/see-jesus-light-and-love/?feed_id=776&_unique_id=69b628843c46b

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This Lent is an opportunity to rediscover that Jesus is the source of strength. When we come to Him with faith, He fills our hearts with the Living Water that truly satisfies.

Jesus, the Source of Strength In this Sunday Mass Homily at Saint Michael Kalibo, Fr. Erel Villanueva reminded us that Jesus is the source of strength. In the Gospel, Jesus meets the woman at the well and reveals that He is the Living Water. Through this encounter, we are reminded that Jesus is the source of strength, especially for those who feel tired, empty, or lost. During this Lenten season, we are invited to reflect on our journey of faith and examine the choices we make along the way. So we must ask ourselves an important question: What is our well? Is it truly Jesus, or do we seek strength from earthly sources such as our own abilities, personal decisions, or financial security? While these things may offer temporary comfort, they cannot fully satisfy the deeper thirst of the human heart. Therefore, we are called to return to the true well. Jesus is the source of strength, the Living Water who renews and sustains us. Instead of settling for temporary solutions the world offers, we are encouraged to rely on Him completely. Moreover, we can draw from this source of strength through simple but meaningful practices. By reading the Bible, we listen to God’s voice. Through prayer, we deepen our relationship with Him. Likewise, by living as good examples to others, we allow Christ’s strength to be seen in our daily lives. Ultimately, this Lent is an opportunity to rediscover that Jesus is the source of strength. When we come to Him with faith, He fills our hearts with the Living Water that truly satisfies. Check out our Sermon page for more homily recaps and video links to our uplifting messages. God bless! https://www.saintmichaelkalibo.com/sermons/jesus-the-source-of-strength/?feed_id=767&_unique_id=69acef993d0e5

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During this Lent: Season of Self Examination, let us honestly ask ourselves: Have we fully surrendered to God? Have we allowed Him to shape our hearts?

Lent: Season of Self Examination In this Sunday Mass homily at Saint Michael Kalibo, Fr. Erel reminded us that Lent: Season of Self Examination calls us to pause and reflect deeply on our spiritual lives. First and foremost, Lent invites us to undergo a spiritual checkup. It challenges us to assess where we truly stand in our faith journey. In today’s Gospel, Jesus teaches us that to be born again means to receive new life in Him—the One who died and rose again for our sins. We first receive this new life through the Sacrament of Baptism, where we enter into a covenant relationship with God. However, baptism is not the end; it is only the beginning. After receiving this grace, we must ask ourselves: Do we continue to live according to God’s will? Do we trust Him fully—in our finances, decisions, and attitudes? Do our actions reflect His Lordship? Moreover, we express God’s Lordship by surrendering everything to Him and obeying His commands. When we allow God to rule in our hearts, transformation begins. Yet this transformation requires willingness. God does not force His rule upon us; we must freely let Him lead. If we truly trust and obey Him, He will transform our lives from glory to glory. Therefore, during this Lent: Season of Self Examination, let us honestly ask ourselves: Have we fully surrendered to God? Have we allowed Him to shape our hearts? Now is the time to examine ourselves and return wholeheartedly to Him. Second Sunday of Lent - March 1, 2026 First Proclamation: Genesis 12:1-8 Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 33:6-22 Second Proclamation: Romans 4:1-5 Gospel Proclamation: John 3:1-17 Check out our Sermon page for more homily recaps and video links to our uplifting messages. God bless! https://www.saintmichaelkalibo.com/sermons/lent-season-of-self-examination/?feed_id=758&_unique_id=69a3ace7aa269

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We must resist his temptations. Instead, let us take up our cross through prayer, fasting, and giving. Above all, let us stay grounded in Jesus, for Lent is truly the Season of Going Back to Jesus.

Lent: Season of Going Back to Jesus In his Sunday Mass homily at Saint Michael Kalibo, +Bp. Romie Jun emphasized that Lent is a Season of Going Back to Jesus- a sacred time to return to the Lord. Although our true home is with God, we are still pilgrims on earth. Therefore, we must live according to the life He has prepared for us. We are called to remain grounded, staying on the path where God wants us to be. However, this is not always easy. Blaise Pascal once observed that we live each day surrounded by distractions. Indeed, God knows what we are meant to do in our daily lives, yet we often allow noise, busyness, and worldly concerns to pull us away from Him. As a result, we prioritize things that are not from God. Moreover, the enemy knows our weaknesses. He understands what distracts us and uses these distractions to lead us into temptation. By turning our focus toward ourselves instead of God, we slowly drift away from the Lord. So, how do we stay grounded during Lent? We return to the disciplines that draw us back to Jesus. First, we pray— listening to Him through Scripture. Second, we fast— with sincere repentance. Third, we give— with generous love. These Lenten practices help us refocus our hearts on Christ. Although the enemy may try to distract us, we must resist his temptations. Instead, let us take up our cross through prayer, fasting, and giving. Above all, let us stay grounded in Jesus, for Lent is truly the Season of Going Back to Jesus. 1st Sunday of Lent- February 22,2026 First Reading: Genesis 2:15-17 Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 32:1-11 Second Reading: Romans 5:12-17 Gospel Reading: Matthew 4:1-11 Check out our Sermon page for more homily recaps and video links to our uplifting messages. God bless! https://www.saintmichaelkalibo.com/sermons/lent-season-of-going-back-to-jesus/?feed_id=749&_unique_id=699a76f942d5d