Filipino Community Celebrates Pre-Christmas Mass

Published by Charlie Bohan-Hurst on January 21, 2026

Total0
0
0
0

Around 100 members of the Filipino community gathered at St Edmund’s Church, Bury St Edmunds, for a joyful pre-Christmas Mass that warmly welcomed all present and celebrated faith, culture, and fellowship. John Saunders reports.

A special Mass on 23 December at St Edmund’s Church, Bury St Edmunds brought together around 100 members of the Filipino community for a joyful celebration of faith and culture. The liturgy, celebrated in their home language by Fr Jay Magpuyo of Dereham, was enriched by the community’s musicians and choir, creating a vibrant and prayerful atmosphere. Afterwards, many gathered in the crypt to share a hog roast and a variety of traditional Filipino dishes.

My wife and I entered the church with some trepidation, realising that we were among only a handful of non-Filipinos attending (the service, unfortunately, had not been widely advertised). Yet we were immediately greeted with warmth. When I asked, “Is it all right for us to join you?” the response came with a smile and the sincere reassurance: “Of course — we want you to share our celebration. You may not understand the words, but you are one of us.”

Those words stayed with me throughout the Mass. Although I was not entirely a stranger, I felt unconditionally welcomed and accepted. It made me reflect: how do we respond to those who set foot in our church for the very first time, regardless of their background or beliefs? Do we offer them the same generosity of welcome? It is too easy to greet those we know, while leaving newcomers to find their own way into parish life.

After the Mass, while catching up with Fr Jay and other familiar faces, one friend insisted that we join the gathering in the crypt. Any hesitation on my part was instantly brushed aside as we stepped into a lively room filled with families who genuinely and generously wanted us to share in their celebration. By the time we left, we had been wrapped in the true warmth and hospitality of our new Filipino friends — friendships which, I am sure, will last far beyond Christmas.