Manila Economic and Cultural Office Philippine Representative Office in Taiwan
Taipei, July 26 (CNA) Saint Christopher's Church (SCC) in Taipei is to hold a special celebration on Sunday, named "Barrio FiESTA,"a day filled with festive cheer, music, food and culture to celebrate the church's 60th anniversary.
SCC Parish Priest Fr. Franco Lacanaria, CS (Congregation of Scalabrini) said the day will begin with a mass presided over by the Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Taipei, Msgr. John Hung (洪山川), SVD (Societas Verbi Divini).
SCC Parish Priest Fr. Franco Lacanaria, CS / CNA file photo
Later there will be rock band performances, a folk dance competition and a pageant contest to search for a "Mr. & Ms. Barrio Fiesta," Lacanaria said.
When asked about the meaning behind the pageant, Lacanaria said those selected will represent the ideals of the community, demonstrating that they have the support, respect and confidence of those who select them.
Taking part in the Santacruzan held at SCC / CNA file photo
Using a basketball analogy, Lacanaria explained, "just as in basketball, they are the MVP (most valuable player)."
There will be free food for all those who attend, Lacanaria said, adding "it's all pure Filipino food that we only prepare during the Fiesta (and) not commonly served every day."
Taking part in the Santacruzan held at SCC / CNA file photo
A mini market will also be set up on the pedestrian sidewalk in front of the church, he added.
Lacanaria, who has served at the church since Jan. 1, 2016, said it was built by Americans and opened in July 1958 for the religious services of the United States military stationed in Taiwan at the time.
Over the past 60 years, the church has been a place to worship for local people as well as migrants, Lacanaria pointed out, adding that it has given shelter to migrant workers as well as provided a space for them to socialize.
Taking part in the Santacruzan held at SCC / CNA file photo
Lacanaria invites the public to attend and share in the festive spirit in celebration of the church's blessings to all that have made Taiwan their home.
Story and Photos from Focus Taiwan --- http://focustaiwan.tw/news/asoc/201807260027.aspx