COUNTY DONEGAL, Ireland, Dec. 13, 2009—The Filipinos’ religious values and deep family ties have won the admiration of the Irish community in County Donegal, Ireland.

Celebrating the Mass of the Immaculate Conception on December 8 in a Church packed with people, parish priest of St. Mary’ Church Fr. Kieran McAteer, cited the positive contribution of the Filipino community in the country.

He said the Filipinos are living witnesses of the Catholic faith in Ireland.

“Ireland is not a country of saints and scholars,” the priest said. “When you came here to earn a living, we learned a lot from you on how you value your family, your rich culture, your religiosity and your ability to stand up despite the recent tragedies that ravaged your country,” he added.

The priest further reminded the faithful to respond to God’s call readily like Mary.

“At times, we are afraid to say yes to God or we don’t want to listen to His call” he said.

The Filipinos in County Donegal celebrated on December 8 their 6th Annual Filipino Day with its theme “Basta’t sama-sama, Kayang-kaya”.

The theme has captured the true Filipino spirit of having a positive outlook in life despite the tragic events we are now facing.

After the solemn Eucharistic celebration, the people went to St. Columbas gymnasium for refreshment and entertainment.

Delicious native delicacies were prepared to revive the barrio fiesta spirit. Each family brought their own food and shared it to the community.

Filipinos and some Irish participants entertained visitors from neighboring counties with dances and songs.

A true communitarian spirit and thanksgiving marked the celebration. Filipinos and Irish communities in County Donegal who actively participated in raising funds for Typhoon Ondoy victims, joined the Annual Filipino Day. (Nathaniel Cabanero)