The Power of Community: Filipino Catholics Celebrate Santacruzan in New York
On a rainy day like no other, over 2,000 Filipino Catholics gathered at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City for the inaugural Santacruzan. Amidst the downpour, Father Rizalino ‘Rhey’ Garcia felt a wave of inspiration wash over him. To him, this gathering represented something profoundly significant—a community united by faith.
“More than 2,000 people braved the torrential rain,” Fr. Rhey recalled, his voice tinged with emotion. “That speaks volumes about the deep faith of the Filipino people. They didn’t just come for an event; they came to pray, to celebrate, and to honor a tradition cherished through generations.”
At 55 years old, Fr. Rhey found himself at the helm of this momentous occasion, serving as the first chaplain of the Filipino Catholic Apostolate (FILCA) within the Archdiocese of New York. His mission? To bring Filipino Catholics together and solidify their place in the local Church.
While the event faced some logistical hiccups, Fr. Rhey took it all in stride. “I sincerely apologize to those who were affected,” he remarked, shouldering the responsibility with grace. “Every first major event teaches us valuable lessons.” For him, what endured was not the confusion but the sense of “communion.” “Seeing thousands gathered in prayer reminded me of Jesus’ words: ‘Where two or three are gathered in my name, there I am in the midst of them.’”
The Birth of FILCA
FILCA was born out of a need—a pastoral care initiative for one of the Archdiocese’s most vibrant immigrant communities. “The Church is like a mother, nurturing her children,” Fr. Rhey explained. “By establishing FILCA and appointing a chaplain, the Archdiocese acknowledges the vibrant faith of the Filipino Catholic community and addresses their spiritual needs with intention.”
Fr. Rhey’s ministry extends far beyond the bustling streets of Manhattan. Filipino Catholics reside throughout the Bronx, Staten Island, and various upstate counties, each searching for connection. Instead of waiting for parishioners to come to him, Fr. Rhey takes inspiration from Pope Francis, who encouraged pastors to “have the smell of the sheep.” His mission is clear: to accompany Filipino Catholics on their faith journey, offering sacraments, encouragement, and presence.
He embraces the role of chaplain with a heart full of humility. “I never sought this appointment. I received it with gratitude and a desire to serve,” he said, echoing Jesus’ reminder that true greatness comes through servanthood. He vows to serve as long as the Archbishop entrusts him with this important task.
A Journey of Faith
Unlike tales of sudden conversions, Fr. Rhey’s path to the priesthood unfolded quietly. Growing up in Alaminos City, Pangasinan—famous for its Hundred Islands—he fondly remembers attending church with his cousins. “Those simple moments nurtured my love for God and the Church,” he said. Looking back, he believes those uncomplicated experiences gently prepared him for his vocation. “Vocation is not just about hearing God’s voice; it’s about falling in love with Him little by little,” he shared.
Though now serving in the heart of New York, his roots in the Philippines remain strong. Fr. Rhey cherishes memories of climbing the old lighthouse with his cousins, gazing out at the breathtaking scenery. A trip back to his homeland isn’t complete without visiting the local market, where he finds a reflection of community life and the dignity of hardworking people.
Shepherding the Sacred Heart Parish
For the past four years, Fr. Rhey has had the honor of being the first Filipino pastor at the Church of the Sacred Heart, a parish celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2025. With the community’s remarkable generosity, they reached their fundraising goal to renovate the church, showcasing the vibrant Filipino-American spirit.
When asked how he views the different Filipino communities across New York, Fr. Rhey chose not to focus on geography. “I don’t look at communities through a geographical lens; I see people,” he said. His emphasis is on unity and collaboration among civic organizations, community leaders, and parishes, fostering a spirit of togetherness.
A New Generation of Faith
Fr. Rhey is optimistic about the faith of younger Filipino Americans. “We’ve seen many rediscovering their faith,” he observed, recalling a young adult who said, “We’re tired of fake stuff.” For Fr. Rhey, this reflects a generation yearning for authenticity and belonging. “The Church isn’t perfect—it’s made up of imperfect people. But what we offer is real: Jesus Christ.”
He believes that faith serves as a bridge for younger Filipino Americans to connect with their cultural identity while deepening their understanding as children of God. Often misunderstood, the familiar phrase “Bahala na” resonates deeply for many Filipinos; it conveys trust in God’s providence. “It means, after doing our best, we entrust everything to the Lord,” he explained, illustrating how faith provides stability in a rapidly changing world.
In this fast-paced society, Fr. Rhey emphasizes that faith teaches us gratitude in blessings, hope during hardships, and compassion for one another.
Ultimately, his ministry reveals a profound truth: Filipino Catholics, no matter where they are in New York, find a spiritual home and a deepened relationship with God.
As Fr. Rhey elegantly puts it, “Together, united in faith, we continue this beautiful journey.”
