Flores De Mayo, a Filipino festival held in the month of May honors the Blessed Virgin Mary while the Santacruzan, also a beloved cultural and religious tradition, is about the search for the Holy Cross by Queen Helena, and her son, Emperor Constantine. Considered a significant part of Filipino tradition, the Lord’s Flock Dublin Chapter participated in this religious event on May 17, 2025 (Saturday), at St. Raymond’s Church in Dublin, California. This occasion marked the persistence of a Filipino Catholic spirit and tradition in the US.
TLF Dublin’s Reyna Delos Angeles: Sis. Abcde Sabangan and her escort, Bro. Elija Yumul.
This year’s celebration(s) started with the procession along Shannon Road, which showcased vibrant floral arches, and elegant youth leaders dressed as “Sagalas”. Devout prayers and songs were recited as community members paid homage to the Virgin Mary.
TLF Dublin proclaimed songs of praise at the anticipated mass at St. Raymond’s Church.
An anticipated mass (with the participation of TLF Dublin choir) followed after the procession. Fr. Erick Villa, the parish priest/pastor delivered an insightful Gospel message: “every time we pray in the name of Jesus, we rely and trust on the intimacy of Jesus with God the Father: I am in the Father and the Father is in me” (Jn. 14:7-11). This biblical passage reminded us that God the Father through Jesus Christ would always be with us; it is up to us to call on Him.
Participating youth leaders dressed as “Sagalas” at the Festival Program.
TLF Dublin and Elk Grove members entertained the audience with song and dance performances.
A program followed that recognized those who made the event possible: youth leaders, volunteers, Hermanas, sponsors, and community members. While the audience enjoyed the food and the company (of everyone), TLF Dublin and Elk Grove members rendered performances – serenading the “Sagalas”, and praising God for a successful affair.
The night concluded with a final blessing by Fr. Erick Villa. He encouraged parishioners to carry images of faith, witness the beauty of the Reynas and Sagalas and reflect on the deeper (spiritual) meaning behind this celebration. He further stressed that the Cross is not just an ornament or a tradition but a sign of God’s immense love for humanity.
Finally, the efforts of TLF Dublin and St. Raymond’s Church to preserve the Filipino traditions of Flores de Mayo and Santacruzan in the United States would remain a cherished event to bridge the generations of the Catholic community spirit.
“My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant” (Lk. 1:46-48).
TLF Dublin Scribes Ministry
Written By: Diana Ditico
Edited by: Vera I. Tuplano
Photo Credits: Maireen Garcia, Queenie Sabangan, Elma Yumul
