Molo parishioners lament transfer of parish priest
The transfer of Rev. Fr. Tomas Delicana, parish priest of St. Anne Parish Church in Molo, to the town of Pototan drew varied reactions from the parishioners. The current reorganization effected by the Archdiocese of Jaro affected 40 priests.
Fr. Delicana would be replaced by Msgr. Claudio Sale, then parish priest of Pototan. The date of the exchanging of assignments is not yet certain. Though, priests included in the reorganization are given until December to implement the transfer.
Several parishioners said they did not expect Fr. Delicana's transfer to the town of Pototan as he has still pending projects in Molo. Earlier, parishioners of Molo made an appeal before Archbishop Angel Lagdameo requesting an extension of Fr. Delicana's term.
The appeal initiated by the Parish Pastoral Council (PPC) was signed by thousands of parishioners. However, the appeal came late as the archdiocese already ended the period to appeal on retention of priests. The priest himself was reluctant since he wants to obey the decision of the archdiocese.
The parishioners want the parish priest to implement both physical and Church-based reforms before his transfer to other assignment. They also hope the incoming parish priest will continue the reforms made by Fr. Delicana.
Much improvement has been made at the Molo Church when Fr. Delicana assumed years ago. In physical aspect, the old Molo convent which was used to be dim and eerie was transformed into an office. It house the different lay organizations involved in the parish.
There are other physical changes in the compound as well as inside the Church. Television monitors and sound system were placed inside the church to further liven up the spirits of churchgoers.
Parishioners are hoping that the incoming parish priest will continue the holding of seven masses during Sundays aside from the anticipated mass on Saturdays. The 3 pm mass which is intended for children must continue to awaken the spiritual awareness of children even in young age. The children acted as lectors, psalmists and commentators during the 3 pm mass.
With Fr. Delicana's term, the parish of Molo has been active in different activities from the different feasts of saints, Sadsad sa Molo and the Misa de Aguinaldo. It is only in Molo where they have their own version of the celebration in honor of Senior Sto. Niño.
Another significant change in Molo with Delicana's term is the installation of a community-based radio station where masses and religious music are being aired everyday. The use of radio in the evangelization has been proven effective especially to those who are sick and bed ridden.
Meanwhile, other parishioners said it is also high time that Fr. Delicana will share his talent and abilities in other parishes.