By Cyrus A. Natividad
Pilgrims braved the muddy trail to the “Cathedral in the Glen” in Hopevale, Tapaz, Capiz.
Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches (CPBC) General Secretary, Rev. Dr. Jerson V. Narciso, was a guest in the special edition of Looking Forward, a CPUTV public affairs program, last Friday, December 14, 2018.
Among many issues on the 75th celebration of the Hopevale martyrdom, Narciso talked about the impact of the commemoration on CPBC and Central Philippine University. He then explained the future plans and projects in relation to the remembrance of the martyrs.
Narciso mentioned the trust fund which would be used for the development and beautification of the Hopevale site. He hopes that this would result to the establishment of a yearly pilgrimage to Hopevale.
A caravan of more than 20 vehicles and 20 motorcycles went to Katipunan and then to Hopevale.
According to Narciso, CPBC and Central Philippine University will have a joint project for a museum to house historical artifacts of the Hopevale martyrs, the mission work, and various ministries throughout the years. Another plan of the CPBC is to train pastors and missionaries in creating ministries for the community.
The Hopevale story has also brought out the creative sense in Dr. Narciso’s as he suggests “a [film] to be produced for the Hopevale [martyrs].” He clarifies, though, that it “may be ambitious, but it will be possible with the support of everybody.” Narciso further explains, “The project can be realized in 3 to 5 years.”
The 4-day event for the diamond commemoration of the Hopevale martyrs included the launching of the Hopevale exhibit at the Ground Floor Lobby of the Henry Luce III Library and a “Dinner of Hope,” a fund raising campaign for Hopevale projects.