Dinagyang fluvial procession: A journey of faith received and shared
The fluvial procession is not only a highlight of the Iloilo Dinagyang Festival 2006 but also a journey of faith that was gifted to us and one that we share, not only here in the country but even abroad.
Fr. Roy Margallo, chair of the Dinagyang Liturgical Committee, said that the fluvial procession is meant to commemorate and appreciate in full measure the efforts of the Spanish friars who brought the Catholic faith in the country through the devotion to Sr. Sto. Nino.
Fr. Margallo said that all those joining the fluvial procession and the foot parade that follows should remember with gratitude the missionary spirit of the friars who risked their lives as they traveled through the rough seas, uncertain of their destinations and their fate.
"With their missionary spirit of bringing the faith in our seashores, our forefathers have benefited so much, and we are also being blessed until today," Fr. Margallo said.
He added that with that gift, the Filipinos today have become true missionaries as they make their presence felt anywhere in the world, giving back the faith, particularly in Europe, where it came from.
The fluvial parade in the Dinagyang is also a missionary journey for everybody, through the devotion to Sto. Nino, Fr. Margallo said.
This year's fluvial procession is on January 27, starting at 2 o'clock in the afternoon, with assembly point at Fort San Pedro Drive Inn. From there, the 30 decorated bancas will wind their way to the Customs House, where the participants will go on a foot procession, passing Iznart St., J.M. Basa St., to Plaza Libertad and back to San Jose Church.
Fr. Margallo said that those joining the fluvial procession and those along the route should bring or display their images of the St. Niņo, with devotion and gratitude. (PIA6/ESSubong).