ISLA VERDE, Batangas — In a profound display of devotion and communal spirit, the faithful of Isla Verde gathered today, April 2, 2026, at St. Paul the Apostle Parish to observe Maundy Thursday. The afternoon was marked by the “Pagmimisa sa Pagtatakipsilim sa Paghahapunan ng Panginoon” (Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper), a pivotal liturgy that signals the beginning of the Easter Triduum.
The solemn service was presided over by Rev. Fr. Mark Ian V. Abu, who led the island community in reflecting on the institution of the Holy Eucharist and the priesthood. The atmosphere inside the historic parish was one of hushed reverence as the “Paghuhugas ng Paa ng mga Apostol” (Washing of the Feet) took place at 4:00 PM. This ritual re-enactment served as a touching reminder of Christ’s call to humble service, with Fr. Abu performing the gesture for twelve individuals—who were chosen leaders hailing from the different barangays of Isla Verde—representing the apostles.
During his homily, Fr. Abu emphasized the theme of sacrificial love, urging the congregation to carry the spirit of the “Mandatum” or command—to love one another—beyond the church walls and into their daily lives on the island. The liturgy concluded with the traditional transfer of the Most Blessed Sacrament to the Altar of Repose.
The evening continued with the “Pagtatanod sa Banal na Sakramento” (Vigil of the Blessed Sacrament), where local families and youth groups took turns in silent prayer and adoration. As the sun set over the Verde Island Passage, the parish remained a beacon of light and prayer, setting a contemplative tone for the upcoming Good Friday observances.|
