Quezon City, Philippines. The Claretian Family gathered on February 1 at the Fr. Rhoel Gallardo Hall of Claret School of Quezon City to honor the memory of 184 members of the Claretian Congregation who gave their lives for their faith. The event also marked the 25th anniversary of the martyrdom of Fr. Rhoel Gallardo, CMF, recognized as a martyr for peace.
Provincial Superior Fr. Amador Tumbaga, CMF, delivered an inspiring talk on the life and sacrifice of Fr. Rhoel. As part of the commemoration, attendees were given a preview of In Thy Name, a film inspired by Fr. Rhoel’s martyrdom, set to premiere in cinemas nationwide on March 5.
The celebration culminated with the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Fr. Mathew Vattamattam, CMF, Superior General of the Claretians, alongside concelebrating Claretian missionaries. In a significant moment at the end of the Mass, the official logo for the 25th anniversary of Fr. Rhoel’s martyrdom was unveiled.
In his message for Claretian Martyrs Day, Fr. Mathew emphasized the deep impact of the Claretian martyrs’ witness and encouraged all Claretians to remain steadfast in their vocation. He highlighted the upcoming release of In Thy Name as a tribute to Fr. Rhoel’s sacrifice, drawing parallels with Dios Prohibido, a film on the Barbastro martyrs.
“Our Congregation draws strength from our martyrs’ unwavering faithfulness. May we continue to be humble and faithful witnesses to the joy of the Gospel,” Fr. Mathew said.
Source: Fr. Wigbert Papa, CMF, Provincial Secretary.
