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Minor Basilica
of the National Shrine
of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel 

Stay connected with the life and mission of the Minor Basilica of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Shrine-Parish through the latest news, announcements, and community updates. Here you will find information on liturgical celebrations, parish activities, devotional events, formation programs, and special occasions that bring our faith community together.

INSTALLATION OF THE NEW PARISH PRIEST

(CACTUS News | New Manila, Quezon City, June 12, 2026) — Bishop Elias Ayuban of the Diocese of Cubao graced the installation of Rev. Fr. Paulo Gamboa, a native of Basak, Pardo, Cebu City, as the new Rector and parish priest of the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Shrine Parish. The celebration, held on the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, provided a fitting occasion for the bishop to reflect on the significance of the heart as the center of every person. Just as the Heart of Jesus is central to our Eucharistic faith, it reveals to us the very Heart of God. In his homily, Bishop Elias reminded Fr. Paulo that a true pastor carries with him the spirit of PUSO: Pag-ibig (Love), Ugnayan (Relationship), Serbisyo (Service), and Ospitalidad (Hospitality). First, a pastor must have a heart for people. He must open his heart to everyone. The bishop noted that it is not necessary to know the names of all the people we love; what matters is that we genuinely love them. Second is relationship. Our God is a God of relationship. While numerous projects and activities may demand attention, the bishop encouraged the new parish priest to prioritize building meaningful relationships. As important as constructing buildings may be, relationships endure far longer than physical structures. Third is service. Although Jesus is God, He chose to serve. He came not to be served but to serve. Our service flows from our experience of being recipients of God's love. One can serve without loving, but one cannot truly love without serving. Finally, hospitality. Bishop Elias shared his dream of a welcoming diocese and, consequently, welcoming parishes. He encouraged the parish community to continue the Church's mission of caring for and embracing the poor, especially during times of calamity. He emphasized that the Catholic Church is not a gathering place for perfect people. Rather, it is a home for all. He urged the new parish priest to welcome everyone, including those who criticize him and those who may not share his views or advocacies. "Let the Shrine of Our Lady of Mount Carmel be a Church that welcomes the wounded," the bishop said, noting that all people carry wounds in one way or another and seek mercy from the Sacred Heart of Jesus. In his remarks of thanksgiving, Fr. Paulo Gamboa expressed his gratitude to Bishop Elias Ayuban and Very Rev. Fr. Joey Mabborang, Provincial Superior of the Order of Discalced Carmelites, for their trust and confidence. He reiterated that being a parish priest is not about titles or positions but about sharing the Heart of Christ with His people. Reflecting on the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Fr. Paulo emphasized that the celebration brings ministers back to the very foundation of their vocation—the heart of ministry itself: the Heart of Christ. It is a love that gives generously, remains faithful, and never abandons.

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