10 January 2026 – The Calgary Filipino Catholic Ministry (CFCM) of the parish of the Sacred Heart in downtown Calgary marked its 2nd Anniversary with a meaningful evening of celebration, bringing together parishioners, guests, and families in a spirit of unity and gratitude.
The event was attended by Consul General Emma R. Sarne, and Deputy Consul General Victorio Mario M. Dimagiba, Jr., underscoring the Philippine Consulate General’s continued engagement with Filipino Faith-based organizations that play a vital role in community-building and cultural continuity abroad.
Since its establishment in 2024, the Calgary Filipino Catholic Ministry has hosted a weekly Filipino-language Sunday Mass at the Sacred Heart Church, which has been warmly embraced by a growing number of Filipino-Canadian churchgoers. The ministry has since become a significant platform for spiritual nourishment, cultural expression, and mutual support, particularly for Filipino immigrants and families seeking a sense of belonging within the wider Canadian mosaic.
The anniversary celebration featured a lineup of performances by parish volunteers, altar servers, and their families, showcasing the talents, devotion, and strong communal bonds of the Filipino community within the parish. These presentations reflected the ministry’s commitment to fostering faith, service, and intergenerational participation.
The Philippine Consulate General recognizes the important contribution of the CFCM in promoting cultural identity, solidarity, and well-being of Filipinos overseas. Such initiatives complement the Consulate’s broader efforts to engage the community and support Filipinos as they integrate meaningfully into the Albertan society while remaining connected to their Filipino heritage.
The Consul General, in her remarks, thanked CFCM’s dedication for providing a spiritual home where faith and culture meet. “What CFCM created reminds us that even far from our homeland, our Catholic faith remains a steady anchor that allows us to face the challenges of living overseas,” she added.
The Consulate also acknowledges the leadership of Calgary Bishop William Terrence McGrattan, who has recognized the contributions of the Filipino community to the local Catholic Church. The inclusion of a Filipino-language Sunday Mass at the Sacred Heart Church as part of its regular parish schedule reflects this continuing partnership. END
(Photos courtesy of Mr. Jimmy Ang and Mr. Rodel Lozano)
PR No. 04-2026
