16/04/2026
WELCOME HOME, SAN PEDRO BAUTISTA!
We invite all the faithful to join us at the Parish of St. Anthony of Padua as we welcome the pilgrim relic of San Pedro Bautista from April 17 to 20, 2026.
This is a rare opportunity to honor the fearless missionary and "Moving Spirit" who laid the foundations of the early Bicolano Church.
Why San Pedro Bautista Matters to Bicol and Rinconada:
Long before his martyrdom in Japan, San Pedro Bautista walked our lands and left a permanent footprint on our faith. As the Superior of the Franciscans in the late 1500s, his contributions were transformative:
π± Founder of Towns: He was the visionary behind the foundation of several Bicolano towns, including Baao, Buhi, and Quipayo. At that time, Iriga was a Visita, a chapel whom he may have frequently visited.
βͺ Builder of Stone Churches: He pioneered the construction of the first stone churches in the region, ensuring that the faith had a lasting home.
βοΈ First Bishop-Elect of Caceres: In 1595, he was appointed the First Bishop of the Diocese of Nueva Caceres. Though martyred before he could be installed, he remains a vital patron of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Caceres.
πΌ A Man of the People: He lived simply, defended the rights of the natives, and even taught the first parish choirs, enriching our culture and liturgy.
Come and venerate the relic of the saint who once labored for our ancestors. Let us draw inspiration from his life of prayer, mission, and courage!
π
Dates: April 17 β 20, 2026
π Location: Parish of St. Anthony of Padua, Iriga City
π Activity: Veneration and Holy Mass (Check soon the parish post for specific schedules)