Pistang Hulio 2026 was a month-long celebration commemorating the birth anniversary of St. Mary Euphrasia Pelletier and the annual Parish Fiesta in Dasmariñas City, Cavite, Filipinas. Guided by the theme, “Nana Phrasia: Masidhing Nakikinig sa Tinig ng Mabuting Pastol Tungo sa Pagmimisyon,” the celebration invited the faithful to follow the example of St. Mary Euphrasia by attentively listening to the voice of Jesus, the Good Shepherd, and courageously responding to the call of mission. Through prayer, formation, fellowship, and service, the activities strengthened the spiritual life of the parish community and deepened its commitment to evangelization.
The celebration began with an Opening Salvo, which formally introduced the month-long festivities and awakened enthusiasm among parishioners. It served as a joyful invitation for the entire community to participate actively in the religious, cultural, and social activities prepared for the occasion. This was followed by the Dalaw Patrona sa mga Simbahayan, during which the image of the patroness visited different barangays and homes. This activity brought the presence and message of St. Mary Euphrasia closer to families, especially those who were unable to visit the parish regularly. It also encouraged household prayer, unity, and devotion.
La Zumba y la Street Dancing Parade promoted health, happiness, and community participation. Through music, movement, and colorful presentations, parishioners expressed their joy and thanksgiving while strengthening their bonds with one another.
La Sacrificial Dinner, on the other hand, reminded everyone of the Christian values of simplicity, self-denial, and solidarity with those in need. It encouraged participants to offer personal sacrifices as an expression of love for God and concern for others.
An important part of the celebration was the Catechesis on the Spirituality of St. Mary Euphrasia, facilitated by Sister Ma. Francia Blando. The catechesis provided the faithful with a deeper understanding of the life, mission, and spirituality of St. Mary Euphrasia. Her unwavering trust in God, compassion for the vulnerable, and dedication to the salvation and dignity of every person were presented as concrete examples of Christian discipleship.
The spiritual preparation continued through the Novena Mayor, which gathered the faithful in prayer for nine days. The Karakol Mayor combined devotion, music, dance, and procession as an expression of gratitude and faith. Meanwhile, the Barrio Fiesta y la Parish Night provided opportunities for fellowship, cultural presentations, and the recognition of the talents and contributions of parishioners.
The month-long celebration reached its culmination through the solemn Misa Concelebrada y la Grand Procession, joined by the patron saints and patronesses of the different barangays. This gathering visibly demonstrated the unity of the parish and its shared devotion to God.
St. Mary Euphrasia evangelizes through her life of compassionate listening and selfless service. She recognized the voice of the Good Shepherd in the cries of the poor, wounded, neglected, and marginalized. Her evangelization was not limited to preaching with words; she proclaimed the Gospel through mercy, acceptance, accompaniment, and action. Pistang Hulio 2026 challenged every parishioner to continue her mission by listening deeply, serving generously, and bringing Christ’s love to families and communities.
