Every year the Diocese of San Jose solemnly commemorates the Feast of the Filipino Martyrs, honoring the witness and sacrifice of San Lorenzo Ruiz de Manila and San Pedro Calungsod. These saints embody faithfulness amid persecution: San Lorenzo Ruiz, the first Filipino saint, remembered for his steadfast confession of Christ unto death; and San Pedro Calungsod, a young catechist and missionary who gave his life proclaiming the Gospel. The diocesan celebration blends prayer, Eucharistic liturgy, and communal reflection, inviting the faithful to emulate their courage, humility, and love for the Philippines and the wider Church.
Join us for an evening of music and remembrance honoring the life and legacy of Father Rey (Bong) Sarmiento. Proceeds will benefit ministries close to the heart of Father Rey (Bong), including support for the unhoused and Saint Joseph of Cupertino Church.
Sponsorship opportunities are available. Organizations and individuals wishing to support the concert and its ministry goals are encouraged to inquire about sponsorship packages.
For inquiries about sponsorships or event details, please contact Saint Joseph Cupertino Church c/o Father Michael Syjueco.
The 5th National Assembly of the National Association of Filipino Priests in the United States convenes Filipino clergy for a triennial gathering dedicated to continuing education, pastoral renewal, and fraternal support. This assembly brings together priests from across the country to engage in workshops, theological reflection, liturgical formation, and pastoral practice tailored to the pastoral needs of Filipino communities in the U.S. Participants will benefit from expert presentations, peer-led discussions, and opportunities for spiritual nourishment and mutual encouragement. Rooted in the mission to strengthen ministry effectiveness and cultural sensitivity, the assembly fosters collaboration, leadership development, and a shared vision for serving Filipino faithful and the wider Church in contemporary America.
Simbang Gabi is a cherished Filipino Catholic tradition of nine dawn Masses celebrated on the consecutive days leading to Christmas, typically from December 16 to 24. Rooted in both devotion and community, these early morning liturgies honor the Blessed Virgin Mary and prepare the faithful spiritually for the Nativity of Christ. Beyond its religious significance, Simbang Gabi is a communal experience: families gather before sunrise, parishes fill with song and prayer, and vendors offer traditional Filipino foods—such as puto bumbong and bibingka—creating an atmosphere of warmth and anticipation. For many Filipinos, completing all nine Masses is a devotional promise believed to bring special graces or granted petitions. Simbang Gabi continues to unite faith, culture, and community in joyful preparation for Christmas.
The Feast of Santo Niño celebrates the Infant Jesus as a cherished symbol of faith, hope, and cultural identity for Filipino Catholics. Observed each January, the fiesta commemorates the 1521 gifting of a statue of the Holy Child by Ferdinand Magellan and honors the enduring devotion that has grown around it.
