By Kristine Baul
On May 25, 2025, the Filipino Catholic Community in Gouda and its Surrounding (FCCG) came together to celebrate a double joyous occasion: the traditional Flores de Mayo and birthday of Fr. Marcel.
The festivities began with the traditional Flores De Mayo celebration, a beautiful prusisyon (procession) where members offered flowers to the Blessed Virgin Mary, followed by a heartfelt mass.
Flores de Mayo, which translates to ‘Flowers of May,’ is a cherished tradition in the Philippines. It’s a month-long celebration honoring the Blessed Virgin Mary, where devotees offer flowers, prayers, and participate in processions (prusisyon) and masses.
The tradition symbolizes the Filipinos’ devotion, gratitude, and reverence for the Blessed Mother. The culmination of Flores de Mayo is often marked with a grand celebration, like the one held by the FCCG.
As the mass concluded, the community shifted gears to celebrate a very special milestone, that is, the birthday of Fr. Marcel. The festivities were filled with vibrant performances, including captivating dance numbers by Maylynn Den Boer and by Gold with her sister. Gold also treated the crowd to a soulful song performance.
The FCCG choir members stole the show with their harmonious rendition of ‘You’ve Got a Friend’ and a special Happy Birthday song, filling the atmosphere with love and camaraderie.
The celebration wouldn’t be complete without delicious foods. The venue was filled with an array of mouth-watering dishes, and as the celebration continued, the dance floor came alive with a fun-filled disco.
The double celebration was a demonstration of the strong bond and sense of community within FCCG. It was a day filled with faith, joy, and gratitude, honoring both the Blessed Virgin Mary and Fr. Marcel’s special day.
