LEGAZPI CITY, May 17, 2009-Our Lady of Fatima Church known as Nuestra Señora de la Fatima, has etched a unique moniker "The Wedding Capital" in the diocese, following its decade foundation where Thanksgiving Mass was offered May 14, after a novenario and procession of the Blessed Virgin Mother held at Tahao Road, here.
Msgr. Noe "Weng" Thomas, the mass presider and once a parish priest of the ten-year old church, has inspired the parishioners in his homily by reflecting of the events that took place which according to him "the fan-shaped structure of the church is unique and conducive to community participation"
"This has become the wedding capital in Legazpi City, because despite less organization within the parish, but liturgical activities has been smoothly organized which made more foreigners to choose this church as the place of their wedding vows," Thomas said.
He named Our Lady of Fatima Church as the San Sebastian Church in Manila where most of the wedding ceremonies are conducted.
"In this church to be wedded couples offered flowers as one of the highlights in the ceremony," he added.
Thomas has attributed the flower offering during the wedding that attracts more couples aside from the best sound system; cleanliness maintained; well-organized activities and the commitment of the pastor.
He also recalled the first year founding of the church as "survival"; no complete facilities until such time when the parish was able to buy four lots for the church expansion in neighboring bigger subdivisions.
According to him, he conducted an instant survey as to the reasons during the interim phases why Thanksgiving Mass be offered and showed the theme written boldly as backdrop: Si MARIA sa 10- taon sa Pagka-Ina kan satuyang parokya" (Blessed Virgin Mary in Her ten-year Mothering of the Church) (Elmer James Bandol)