by Rommel Pangilinan
The strict health protocols and lockdowns in the country due to the pandemic, inspired Katolikong Pinoy sa Abu Dhabi (KAPD) to reach out to more Catholic Filipinos in the country. Established in 2010, the group’s main goal is to reach out to all overseas (OFs) in the United Arab Emirates.
From an online recollection in June 2020, the group continues its mission by serving our “kababayans” in UAE through activities and programs such as praying the rosary online, bringing the sacraments to the sick and the dying, and even providing goods and financial aid to those who lost their jobs funded from donations and help from other OFs.
The group also helps in propagation of Filipino popular piety and devotions to Sto. Nino, Birhen ng Penafrancia, and the Black Nazarene. They also conduct an annual retreat and the celebration of the Simbang Gabi.
The members are coming from different parishes such as St. Joseph’s Cathedral (Abu Dhabi), St. Paul’s Church (Musaffah), St. John the Baptist Church (Ruwais) and St. Mary’s Church (Al Ain). Activities are led by Fr. Troy De Los Santos, an Filipino OFM Capuchin. Fr Troy is the Filipino Chaplain and Vicar General of Apostolic Vicariate of Southern Arabia.
In spite of the distance, our Catholic OFs through KPAD join in celebrating the 500 YoC in the Philippines through an online activity following the theme: Gifted to Gift. This celebration inspired every member of KPAD to participate and create a mark on this occasion with humility and kindness.
Below is an action animation video from KPAD that is an embodiment of the Church of Christ and a reflection of HIS love that aims to bring people together for a common goal, which is love:
For those whore are abroad especially in the middle east, you may check their activities through their Facebook page: Katolikong Pinoy sa Abu Dhabi.