Calgary Filipino Catholic Ministry

About us

Gathered by Grace, United in Christ, Sharing His Light to the World.

On January 14, 2024, Reverend Father Rowel Jose “Arjay” Abanto, the current pastor of Sacred Heart Church in Calgary, initiated a groundbreaking event by introducing the first-ever Sunday Filipino Mass in Tagalog. This decision was not made lightly, as Fr. Abanto carefully discerned the call of the Holy Father, Pope Francis, and the Roman Catholic Diocese of Calgary to foster unity and community within the church through the “Synod on Synodality – Communion, Participation, Mission” initiative. Moreover, the growing Filipino population in Calgary and neighboring towns had been calling for consistent Filipino Sunday Masses, making this a timely and necessary response.

To make this vision a reality, Fr.  Abanto opened the doors of Sacred Heart Church-Calgary to various Filipino organizations, communities, and families who were eager to participate and support the weekly Sunday masses. The response from the Filipino community was overwhelming, with numerous volunteers stepping forward to assist Father Abanto in organizing and facilitating the Filipino Sunday mass. This collective effort resulted in the formation of a vibrant and cohesive Filipino community of faith within the parish.

The Filipino Sunday Mass quickly gained popularity, attracting an estimated attendance of around 325 Filipino parishioners from Calgary and nearby towns. This gathering of individuals, united by their shared Filipino heritage and their unwavering commitment to their Catholic faith, created a powerful and enriching worship experience. It is important to note that the significance of the Filipino Sunday Mass extends beyond the vision of Fr. Abanto alone. It is a testament to the dep-rooted faith of the Filipino people, nurtured in their homeland and carried with them wherever they go. This mass serves as a means for Filipino Catholics to continue strengthening and deepening their faith, even when they are far away from their native Philippines.

The Filipino Sunday Mass is held every week at the Roman Catholic Scared Heart Church, located at 1307 14 St. SW Calgary Alberta T3c 1C6 Canada. This sacred gathering serves as a testament to the unity and devotion of the Filipino community in Calgary and nearby towns, as they come together to worship, celebrate, and grow in their shared faith.

Mission

To foster a spirit of sacrifice and dedication to the mission, encourage innovative approaches to share the message of God, and unite to build a vibrant community of believers that echoes Filipino faith and culture worldwide.

Vision

To illustrate the beauty of Filipino faith, traditions, and become an inspiration to others through outreach and service, that demonstrate the values of live, compassion, and generosity in everyday life.

Our Committees

Ministry Coordinator – Mylene Sales-Lozano
Liturgy Master of Ceremonies – Holy Mass​ – Carlo Peregrina
Liturgy – Charls Pesiao (Servant Leader) /Team Ministry
Lector’s Ministry – Paulo Fernandez (Animator)
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion – Senen Aquino (Animator)
Altar Servers – Kem Nebreja (Animator)
Liturgical Music – TBD (Animator)
Fellowship/Food – Mila Nebreja (Servant Leader)
Social Communications – Rodel Lozano (Servant Leader)
Social Communications – Francis Jimmy Ang (Member)
Social Communications – Joey Jay Guinto (Member)
Social Communications – Nino Brinas (Member)
Social Communications – Paolo Nieva (Member)
Social Communications – Kat Nieva (Member)
Publications – Rolly Castillo (Servant Leader)
Usher and Collectors – Mar Aquino (Servant Leader)
Marian Devotions – Francisco Rull (Servant Leader)
Mission and Apostolate – Jojo Juego (Servant Leader)
Liturgical Music Ministry