On August 11, priests from the Diocese of Talibon in the Philippines took the stage at St. Vital Parish in Beaumont for the final Canadian stop of their North American tour. Performing as Jeduthun: The Singing Boholano Priests, the group used music to raise funds for rebuilding efforts back home, where Typhoon Odette left lasting devastation.
“Jeduthun refers to the temple choir during the time of King David. The choir were Levites, and Levites are priestly tribes. Since we are priests, we use that name.”
This wasn’t a typical performance and Fr. Nilo Macapinlac, St. Vital’s parish priest, made that clear.
“It reminds us that our diversity is not a weakness but rather it is a strength coming from the Holy Spirit. Everyone is unique and distinct and yet we are one Body in Christ, the Church”. Said Fr. Nilo. “Thanks to the Diocese of Talibon that they were able to share their talent and reaching out to us here in North America by rendering their multiple talents in building up the Kingdom of God. Always for the glory of God. No wonder, our Church is Catholic which is obviously Universal.”
The benefit concert was part of a fundraising mission to help rebuild churches and facilities in the Diocese of Talibon that were devastated by Typhoon Odette in 2021. Entire communities are still recovering from the storm’s destruction.
“There were so many people who lost their homes due to this calamity,” said Bishop Parcon. “We are here to raise funds; to rebuild our cathedral, our sacred spaces, and the lives of our people.”
Fr. Gerson, one of the Jeduthun members, explained that the group formed years ago in seminary, united by a shared love for music and ministry.
“We see the stage as an extension of the pulpit,” he said. “Our singing is evangelization. We want people to leave feeling closer to God.”
Their performances include sacred music, Filipino folk songs, and even popular tunes. But every song is chosen with intention: to comfort the homesick, stir joy, and reconnect people; especially immigrants, to their faith and cultural identity.
“We’ve seen it across the tour,” Fr. Gerson shared. “Filipinos are often the first to serve in parishes abroad. They’re keeping the Church vibrant, not just back home, but here in North America too.”
For Bishop Parcon, this tour is a sign of the Church’s global unity and a call to action.
“We are a universal Church. We have the responsibility to help one another,” he said. “We are here to ask for your blessings, inasmuch as you are blessed by God. Be a source of blessing to others too.”
As the Archdiocese of Edmonton awaits a new shepherd, Bishop Parcon also offered a word of assurance to the faithful:
“Don’t lose hope,” he said. “The Holy Spirit will certainly send you a wonderful shepherd. Continue to pray. He will never abandon you.”
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