“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”— 1 Peter 4:10
Redemptorist Province of Cebu held the “3G Concert For A Cause” on June 6 and 7, 2025, at the auditorium of St. Theresa’s College in support of the renovation of the Redemptorist Retreat House – Holy Family. This concert is rooted in the values of Gratitude, Generosity and Genuine Mission. It brought two nights of joy, thanksgiving, and celebration to a sold-out crowd.
The highlight of the evening was VIVAT, a group composed of four Redemptorist priests: Fr. Miguel Gaspe, C.Ss.R., Fr. Eric Sevencruz, C.Ss.R., Fr. Gilbert Dandoy, C.Ss.R., and Fr. Edilberto Cepe, C.Ss.R. who humbly admitted they are not professional singers, but rather servants offering their voices for a greater purpose. Despite that, they captured the audience with their sincerity, energy, and meaningful song choices. Their performance featured a heartfelt mix of serious, emotional pieces and light, fun songs that brought laughter, nostalgia, and quiet moments of reflection.
VIVAT credited much of their success to Maestro Jundel Bacalso, the concert’s musical director, who patiently guided them and masterfully arranged the music to suit their range and personality. Fr. Eric wrote in his social media account, “The Midas Touch of VIVAT – Master Jundel Bacalso! Thank you for your patience and generosity, always going out of your way to make us sound like a real singing group. You gave us the confidence to perform on that stage.”
Accompanying our four priests were the church choirs of Our Mother of Perpetual Help (OMPH) Parish, who offered beautiful renditions of religious hymns. Their angelic voices provided a spiritual contrast to VIVAT’s secular repertoire which definitely created a balance that spoke to the broad ways in which God can be encountered through music.
During the concert, VIVAT shared a powerful message, saying, “God is also felt in these songs because God is present in all things that are true, good, and beautiful.” It was a beautiful reminder that even secular songs, when performed with intention and heart, can also become moments of grace.
Behind the scenes, Artistic Director Paul Mark Divino designed the flow and aesthetic of the concert. The attention to detail ensured that the message of the night remained clear that 3G is a mission-driven act of service.
Throughout both nights, VIVAT took time to thank the community, creative team, volunteers, sponsors, and all those who continue to support the Redemptorists in their work, especially those helping breathe new life and hope into the Redemptorist Retreat House – Holy Family.
The 3G Concert for a Cause was a prayer made visible. The message was clear amidst the evenings of heavy rain, that when people come together for a mission, even ordinary voices can create something truly extraordinary.
Darlene Custodio,
RAMM Cebu Province
Photos: Redemptorist All-Access Media Ministry
