With grateful hearts and renewed inspiration, members of the Teresian Association (TA) in Cebu gathered on Sunday, July 26 to commemorate in advance the 90th anniversary of the martyrdom of St. Pedro Poveda. More than a remembrance of a historical event, the day became an opportunity to share Poveda's life, mission, and enduring legacy with others.
The day began at the Archdiocesan Shrine of St. Therese of the Child Jesus in Lahug, Cebu City, the parish where the TA in Cebu belongs. TA members came together to set up an information booth and displayed standees introducing St. Pedro Poveda and the Teresian Association. Throughout the morning, we distributed flyers and prayer cards featuring Saint Pedro Poveda, inviting parishioners to learn more about the saint and his vision of transforming society through education and culture.
Members also took part in the church’s 7:00 AM Missa pro populo, where we joined the faithful in worship. As part of the apostolic outreach for the day, we were given the opportunity to address the congregation during the 7:00 AM, 9:30 AM, and 10:30 AM Masses. Before the final blessing, representatives delivered a brief sharing about the martyrdom of St. Pedro Poveda as well as the mission and presence of the Teresian Association.
Revisiting POVEDA, the movie
After the morning activities, the group gathered back at the Guadix Open Center for lunch and fellowship. The afternoon program centered on a special screening of the film Poveda, which recounts the life, ministry, and ultimate martyrdom of Saint Pedro Poveda during the Spanish Civil War.
The film viewing was followed by a reflection and sharing session with members expressing how deeply moved and inspired they were by the story. Many described Poveda as a genuinely good man whose unwavering obedience to God's will sustained him even in the face of persecution and death. Quite touching as well was the significant role of La Santina, the Nuestra Señora de Covadonga, in Poveda’s life and in the beginnings of the Teresian Association.
For the Cebu members, this gathering was a unique and meaningful way to commemorate the founder’s martyrdom. Rather than simply remembering a historical event, we were able to bring St. Pedro Poveda’s story to others, strengthen our sense of belonging to the Teresian Association and renew our commitment to living out his charism in today's world.
Lourma P. Pleños, TA - Cebu.
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