Pax et bonum:
We again sincerely apologize for the dismay caused by the presentation of the proposed new regulations governing weddings at Santuario de San Antonio Parish (SSAP). We would like to reiterate that those regulations are still a work in progress as communicated during the Wedding Congress.
The new regulations were meant to preserve the solemnity of the Sacrament of Marriage. Our objective is to ensure all wedding ceremonies at the Parish are simple, prayerful, and highlight the true meaning of the union betweem a man and a woman in Holy Matrimony.
We now realize taht the levying of the certain fees on wedding suppliers is not the correct way to achieve that objective. in lieu of an accreditation fee, we shall thus institue a strict screening process to ensure that suppliers observe proper decorum during the wedding ceremony.
In the coming days, we shall actively engage key stakeholders in the wedding industry for guidance in relation to the other regulations we wish to adopt.
Finally, in response to the comments and questions on how funds received are used by the Parish — these not only ensure the physical upkeep and maintenance of the Parish grounds and facilities, but also support the many ministries and outreach activities of SSAP. These include the Prison, Hospital, Health Care, Scholarship, and Relief and Rehabilitation ministries. Moreover, SSAP assists ten (10) rural Franciscan Parishes in Luzpn, several foreign missions, the formation of Franciscan seminarians and the care of our aging and ailing brothers in the Province.
With this, we hope to achieve greater unity, foster meaningful partnerships and provide better service.
Fraternally,
FR. REU JOSE C. GALOY OFM
Parish Priest
