Church group honors members

CEBU, Philippines - The Cofradia de la Virgen de Lourdes of Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu recently honored members for their long years of service and loyalty to the Church and the organization. 

Through the efforts of Cofradia’s chairman Jose “Dodong” R. Gullas and president Nena B. Gullas, the following were recognized: Rev. Fr. Medardo A. Durmiendo, O.S.A., spiritual director; Benedicta S. Bascon and Feliciana C. Alvarez, past presidents; Clarita G. Tumulak, vice-president; Rosalinda A. Murillo, secretary; and members Natividad P. Antonio, Magdalena C. Calatrava, Nenita Del Castillo Edo, Paciencia L. Flores, Yolanda S. Oporto, Rebecca C. Seno and Anita Y. Su. The awarding was held at the Magna Aula Pilgrim Center of the Basilica.

Introduced in the Philippines in 1886, the Cofradia de la Virgen de Lourdes of Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu is a mandated Church organization which aims to attain holiness through the devotion of Virgin of Lourdes through the propagation of the holy rosary and initiating projects and activities for the poor.

The awarding, which bannered the theme “Experiencing joy through the Virgen de Lourdes, the Spirit of the holiday season,” was hosted by Nena Gullas for its 60-plus members plus religious priests of the Order of St. Augustine. Rev. Fr. Medardo Durmiendo, O.S.A. also held a recollection prior to the awarding.

The award-winning UV Chorale also graced the occasion and provided the attendees with music and entertainment. Their renditions included their winning pieces at the recent Manila Broadcasting Co. National Choral Competition in Aliw Theater in Manila, wherein they placed second. Special performances included an Elvis Presley medley by Rev. Fr. Durmiendo, O.S.A., and upon the crowd’s request, Mrs. Nena Gullas did an impromptu solo of “A Shadow of your Smile” accompanied by the UV Chorale.