On May 25, the Holy Family Parish in Choi Hung celebrated their annual Santacruzan festival with the help of the Santo Niño Crusaders Group, who organised the event.
The event began with the recitation of the Glorious Mystery of the Holy Rosary, followed by a procession of beautifully dressed women representing biblical and historical figures and virtues such as faith and hope.
I was blessed to take part in the celebration as the Reyna de las Flores, or “Queen of Flowers.” As Marian hymns were sung, the image of the Blessed Virgin Mary, carried in a litter adorned with colorful flowers, was brought inside the parish hall.
After the procession, Nora Catubig, the coordinator of the hosting group, gave a short introduction about the Santacruzan. The Santacruzan is a religious and cultural procession commemorating the legendary discovery of the True Cross by Queen Helena. The word “Santacruzan” is derived from the Spanish “Santa Cruz,” meaning “Holy Cross.”
The most anticipated part of the celebration was the crowning of the Blessed Virgin Mother by our parish priest, Father Johnson Dhos, SVD.
Those present witnessed the coronation while singing songs, offering flowers, and watching the previous Reyna Elena, Virginia Arceño of the Disciples of Christ group, hand over the crown and cape to this year’s Reyna Elena, Pearl Jade Rodrigo of Our Lady of the Sky Praesidium. Father Dhos then shared inspiring insights about the celebration and Mother Mary, whom we can confidently turn to in times of trouble and trials.
Our Reyna Elena showcased her talent alongside her two sisters in an interpretive dance to the song “Onward Pilgrims of Hope” (inspired by Jescom Music). This was followed by “harana” serenades to Our Lady of Guadalupe by the different parish communities and a song performed by all the sagalas.
Before Mass, there was a procession with blessings celebrated by our parish priest. The celebration was joyful and meaningful. It is a time to remember that we have a Heavenly Mother who will always help us and help us find the true Cross, our Savior, Jesus Christ, in our lives.
Sheryl Tapel-Reyes
Love of God Prayer Group
Holy Family Parish
