OAD opens devotion to St. Nicholas

THE Philippine Province of the Order of the Discalced Augustinians (OAD) kicked off their novena Masses in honor of its patron, St. Nicholas of Tolentino on Sept. 1 at 6 p.m. at the Chapel of Holy Relics, Tabor Hills, barangay San Jose, Cebu City.

The saint marks the significance of the Philippine Province as a separate province of OAD Italy. The OAD province of the Philippines is led by newly elected provincial commissary, Rev. Fr. Crisologo Suan, OAD.

The intercession and example of Saint Nicholas of Tolentino inspired the Philippine Province as he is the first Augustinian friar to be canonized after the grand union of the Order of St. Augustine (OSA) in 1256.

According to Rev. Fr. Dennis Ruiz, the Province Economo, “the celebration seeks to foster devotion of the saint. As a newly OAD province of the Philippines, we need to stand and work together for the realization of God’s kingdom as we bring people closer to God and God closer to people.”

OAD Philippines will continue the Augustinian custom of blessing and distributing “Saint Nicholas Bread” in his memory.

This year’s fiesta celebration has several activities for the public to attend, including a Pontifical Mass to be presided by Most Rev. Julito Cortes, D.D. to culminate the event on Sept. 10 at 6 p.m.

Meanwhile, the OAD holds a Mass every Monday at 5:30 p.m. at the Chapel of Holy Relics.

For more information on Tabor Hills activities, contact Rev. Fr. Dennis Ruiz, OAD, at 3440992 or (0922) 8419245. /Seminarian Marcelino Rapayla Jr.