TABUK CITY, Kalinga – ‘’We are all accountable to God for all these blessings,’’ Rev. Fr. Claudio Bagano of Episcopal Diocese of Northern Luzon in his message during the traditional ecumenical service opening the 2017 Foundation Day/Matagoan Festival at the People’s Gymnasium.
Led by the Kalinga-Apayao Religious Sector Association (KARSA) the ecumenical service was started with an introit led by the United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP) Chancel Choir followed by the Call to Worship by Rev. Leomer Carino of the UCCP. Ptr. Wency Portugal of the Tabuk Valley Christian Fellowship gave the Prayer of Praise followed by the reading of scriptures by Ptr. Norma Ammogawen of the UCCP. Ptr. Romy Haban of the Church of Christ led the Epistle Reading followed by Rev. Felipe Balinag of the Assembly of God for the Gospel Reading.
Bagano, in his message, said that the occasion of the 10th City Founding Anniversary and 16th Matagoan Festival is also a celebration of Tabukeños’ vast talents and skills God has shared.
“God expects us to use the talents He has given us; if not, it will be taken away from us and be thrown in the darkness,’’ Bagano emphasized. “Let us not only be industrious for ourselves but also for others and we must regard honesty in our transactions and have the consideration for other people to help our City stay in harmony,’’ he ended.
Intercessory prayers for the development of the city were given by Rev. Luis Ao-as of the Lutheran Church, Rev. Norman Taynan, UCCP, Rev. Marcela Sacayle, Ptr. Pilar Saydoen, and Rev. Carino after City Mayor Ferdinand Tubban lighted the Matagoan candle. Meanwhile, the Offertory Prayer was given by Rev. Regino Ramos of the UCCP.
The Ecumenical Service was attended by LGU officials and employees with barangay officials ended with a response from Tubban expressing his hope for everyone’s active participation in all festival activities, healthy relations in diversity, unity among the people and growth and development for the city.
By Darwin Serion Photos by Fujiyo Anthony Sakai
