The 9th day of September is one of the most anticipated and memorable date in the town of San Mateo because it is when the Feast of Nuestra Señora de Aranzazu is celebrated along with the Kakanin Festival.
A concelebrated mass was held at Diocesan Shrine and Parish od Nuestra Señora de Aranzazu (DSPNSDA) at 7:30 AM. It was presided by Monsignor Henry Mediarito, Vicar General of the Diocese of Antipolo, together with other priests. In the Homily, Rev. Fr. Louie Atanacio revered the Patroness of San Mateo with the remark, “Para sa ating taga-San Mateo napakahalaga ng Birheng Aranzazu. Mga kapatid napakapalad nating mga-taga San Mateo. We are under the protection and care of our Blessed Mother.”
Fr. Louie described the Town of San Mateo in the past as simple. He added that, back then, some people are named after a patron saint near a town. Thus, some people are named after Our Lady of Aranzazu. Lastly, Fr. Louie noted that we should continue our culture, our tradition and, most importantly, our devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Before the mass ended, Mayor Tina Diaz gave a message greeting. She described the Virgin Mary as “beatiful inside and out” and encouraged people to be a role model as they continue the devotion to the Blessed Virgin. It was followed by the remarks of Parish Pastoral Council President, Bro. Danny Villanueva, acknowledging the contribution of all the people who made the celebration of the Feast of Nuestra Señora de Aranzazu successful and meaningful.
