WHAT WE DO

In ministering to the spiritual needs of Filipino Catholics in Gouda and Surroundings, the FCC Gouda facilitates baptisms, confirmation and weddings during the mass on 4th Sunday of the month. Also during the 4th Sunday mass, via the Children’s Bible Corner, children are taught about the liturgy of the day. Outside the mass, the FCC Gouda members visit the sick at home and in the hospital to pray for their healing; they also comfort the grieving (usually the widow) and visit and pray for those low in spirit. Donations, cash or kind, are collected for people stricken by natural disasters back home in the Philippines.

Report on Activities Carried Out in 2023

The Filipino Catholic Community FCC Gouda and Surroundings, also known as FCC Gouda, carried out the following activities in 2023, aligning with its objectives as stated in its statutes.

Eucharistic Celebration

Every 4th Sunday of the month, a Eucharistic celebration is held, led by a priest. After the mass, churchgoers gather in the adjacent hall to enjoy coffee, tea, or a soft drink along with a (Filipino) snack while socializing. This gathering has a strong social character. Filipinos, as well as other nationalities, converse, update each other on life events, establish new connections, and offer assistance when needed. The priest also mingles with the churchgoers.

The Nightingales Concert

 In October 2023, we organized a concert featuring the Filipino music group The Nightingales. A part of the board and volunteers welcomed the group at Schiphol Airport and provided them with accommodation for a few days. During the Sunday mass on October 24, The Nightingales performed an impressive concert.

 25th Anniversary Celebration of FCC Gouda and Surroundings

 In 2023, FCC Gouda celebrated its 25th anniversary with a grand festive evening, where clergy members reflected on the history of FCC Gouda. The event also highlighted Filipino culture, with traditional Filipino cuisine playing a central role in the celebration.

 Family Fun Day

 As in previous years, we organized our annual Family Fun Day in 2023. This outdoor event featured sports and games, music and dance, and, of course, delicious Filipino food. Additionally, faith enrichment was an integral part of the day. The event was a great success, creating beautiful memories for many members.

Supporting Family Members in the Philippines 

One of FCC Gouda’s main objectives is helping those in need. Often, these are family members of church members in the Philippines who are facing hardships due to illness or loss. In such cases, in addition to contributions from members, FCC Gouda also provides financial support to help ease the burden.

Board Composition in 2023

  • Chairperson: Amor van Os
  • Secretary: Hans Oosterwijk
  • Treasurer: Mary-Jane Streefland
  • Other Board Members: Teun Blanken and Jenny Luna
  • Priest/Spiritual Leader: Fr. Marcel Uzoigwe

 Compensation Policy

 The entire board works voluntarily and does not receive any compensation. Only the priest receives a stipend for each mass he conducts. The amount of this stipend is detailed in the Statement of Income and Expenses.

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By Tess van As On Sunday, 19 July 2026, our Filipino-Dutch community gathered in Nijmegen for a joyful celebration honoring St. Titus Brandsma, the Carmelite priest, journalist, professor, and martyr whose life continues to inspire us through his unwavering commitment...

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