NDMC Celebrates St. Eugene’s 243rd Birthday and Welcomes New Chaplain
On August 1, 2025, the Notre Dame of Midsayap College (NDMC) community gathered at the NDMC Gymnasium (Bulwagang Genoveva Deles Jaranilla) to celebrate the 243rd birthday of Saint Eugene de Mazenod, founder of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate and spiritual patron of the institution. The celebration, organized by the Campus Ministry and Religious Education Office, brought together students from IBED and College, faculty members, staff, administrators, and representatives from Muslim and non-Catholic groups.
The Eucharistic Celebration was presided over by Fr. Antony Vincent Benedict, OMI, who was formally welcomed as the new NDMC Chaplain. He was joined by Fr. Ramon Maria G. Bernabe, OMI, and Rev. Joshua Dela Vega, OMI, as co-presiders. In his homily, Fr. Antony highlighted the missionary zeal, love for the poor, and deep faith of St. Eugene, encouraging the community to continue living out the Oblate charism through service and courage. The formal welcome of the new Chaplain symbolized renewed spiritual leadership and continuity in NDMC’s Catholic mission.
In the spirit of inclusivity, parallel interfaith activities were also held. Muslim students and personnel gathered at the ETD Court for a Da’wah session led by MSO leaders, while non-Catholic Christian participants attended a Fellowship Session at the Primera Function Hall featuring praise, worship, and reflection. These activities reflected NDMC’s commitment to fostering respect, unity, and harmony among diverse faith traditions within the campus.
The celebration not only honored the legacy of St. Eugene but also strengthened the institution’s dedication to faith formation, inclusive community-building, and shared mission.