Barcelona, Sorsogon April 25, 2025 – Most Rev. Jose Alan V. Dialogo, D.D Bishop of Sorsogon, as witnessed by the local parishioners with Isabel Dy-Esmeria, Fr. Benedicto F. Furo, the Parish Priest, Fr. Philippe Andrew Gallanosa, JCL, Rev. Fr. John Joffer Lucas, RCJ Vicar Provincial in a holy mass, officiated the ceremony for the enthronement of the relic of St. Hannibal Di Francia. The imposition of the first-class ex corpore relic of St. Hannibal at the parish main altar today at 3:45 p.m.

The ceremony was done at the Parish Church of St. Joseph, Barcelona, Sorsogon. The parish lately has been a recipient of a restoration grant from the National Historical Commission of the Philippines that reestablished most of the church’s physical structures. Thereby necessitated the enthronement event to the parish with its parishioners.

To those who are asking why Catholics perform such ceremonies. Because of the belief that relics form part as Connection to Saints: Relics serve as a tangible connection to saints, who are believed to intercede for the faithful in heaven. Physical Reminders: They act as physical reminders of holiness and the qualities that made the saints virtuous, encouraging believers to emulate these qualities in their lives. Spiritual Enhancement: Venerating relics can enhance one's spiritual life by fostering a deeper connection to the divine and the community of saints. Expression of Gratitude: The practice expresses gratitude to God for the saints and their contributions to the faith. Overall, the veneration of relics is a significant aspect of Catholic worship that reflects the belief in the communion of saints and the hope of eternal life.