St. Clement’s Church in Iloilo City marked a meaningful moment in its history as it celebrated the 80th Anniversary of the Perpetual Novena to Our Mother of Perpetual Help in Asia through a Thanksgiving Mass held on Wednesday, May 13, 2026.
The Thanksgiving Mass was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Julius Martin Malacas, C.Ss.R., Rector of St. Clement’s Church. Devotees, parishioners, and members of the Redemptorist community gathered in prayer and thanksgiving for 80 years of devotion, mission work, and faith that has touched many lives through the years. After the Mass, the celebration continued with the OAK Jubilee Concert held at the church grounds. The night became a simple but joyful gathering where music and faith came together, filling the place with gratitude and hope.
Rev. Fr. Eric Sevencruz, C.Ss.R. described the concert as a “rain concert.” He said it is a prayer for rain during the dry season and also a prayer for blessings, hope, and grace to gently come down on everyone present. The free concert featured performances from singer Jed Madela, the group VIVAT, and members of the Redemptorist community. The performances were offered as a tribute to all devotees and supporters who have stayed faithful to the mission of the Redemptorists through the years.
Jed Madela also took part in the catechism for children in the afternoon, spending time with the young participants in a simple yet meaningful encounter of faith and learning. The event also helped raise support for the restoration of the church’s Carillon Tower, which holds 13 manually played bells of different tones. Church leaders hope that once restored, it will once again become a place where the sound of bells lifts prayers and welcomes pilgrims.
The devotion traces its roots back to May 13, 1946, in Iloilo City when fewer than 100 people gathered for the first Perpetual Novena. It was started by Irish Redemptorist priests after World War II. Over time, this gathering of prayer spread to many places including Cebu, Lipa, and Baclaran and became one of the most loved Catholic devotions in the country.
Today, this devotion remains alive and strong at St. Clement’s Church. It continues to be a place of prayer, hope, and quiet service for the faithful.
As the jubilee year continues, more activities are set for June. The International Convention will be held from June 24 to 26. It will gather church leaders, devotees, pilgrims and guests from different places to reflect on the devotion and its mission.
On June 28, the OAK Jubilee Run will bring the community together in a simple run that promotes health, unity, and support for church programs.
In June, outreach programs will also be offered for the community. These include free medical and clinic services, legal assistance, blood donation drives, free haircut, massage, and grooming services, as well as catechism and activities for children and youth. These efforts aim to reach out especially to those who are in need. These programs are not only events but acts of care and service for the people.
As St. Clement’s Church continues its 80th jubilee celebration, the community holds on to a simple but deep message of faith that has lasted through time. It is a faith built on prayer, service, and love under the guidance of Our Mother of Perpetual Help.
Lourie Jane Mantilla,
Lay Missionary, West Visayas Redemptorist Mission Team
Photo credits: RAMM, Daily Guardian and Jed Madela
(Source: redemptoristph.org)
