by Darlene Custodio
On two rainy nights in June, something special happened at the St. Theresa’s College Auditorium in Cebu City. While rain poured outside, a celebration of music and mission unfolded inside, dubbed as The 3G: Gratitude, Generosity, Genuine
Mission Concert for a Cause. The two-nights sold out and heartfelt gathering was held last June 6 and 7, 2025 to support the renovation of the Redemptorist Retreat House – Holy Family.
At the center of the concert was a group called VIVAT. It is composed of four Redemptorist priests: Fr. Miguel Gaspe, C.Ss.R., Fr. Eric Sevencruz, C.Ss.R., Fr. Gilbert Dandoy, C.Ss.R., and Fr. Edilberto Cepe, C.Ss.R. Though they were not professional singers, they stood on stage with sincerity, offering their voices in service of something greater than themselves.
The performance of the group included a combination of light and serious songs. There were instances of laughter and fun. There were also soft, emotive moments that made the audience introspective. The message was loud: music, no matter how simple, has the power to touch hearts.
VIVAT attributed their success to the concert’s musical director Maestro Jundel Bacalso. He guided them with patience and skill. Fr. Eric wrote on social media, “You gave us the confidence to perform. Thank you for your patience and generosity. You made us sound like a real singing group.”
The church choirs of Our Mother of Perpetual Help Parish: Vox Minore Chorum, Los Cantantes Cebu, Fidelis Choir and Una Voche, joined them. With their heavenly voices, they imbued the room with spirituality. Their hymns provided a prayerful contrast to VIVAT’s more secular songs. Together, they created a balance that proved how God can be experienced in various kinds of music.
During the concert, VIVAT reminded everyone that God can be found in anything that is true, good, and beautiful. Popular songs themselves, even, can be a means of tapping into God if one sings them meaningfully. The event was carefully planned by Artistic Director Paul Mark Divino, who made sure the program flowed smoothly. Every detail helped support the concert’s purpose. Performing was not the sole intention, but to encourage others to participate in mission.
On both nights, VIVAT expressed their gratitude to the community, creative team, volunteers, and all the sponsors. They also thanked all those who continue to support the Redemptorists, particularly in restoring new life to the retreat house. The 3G Concert for a Cause was, in no doubt, a prayer in action. It cemented the thought that when individuals unite with purpose, even humble voices can make something great.
The rain might have poured heavily, but the venue had warmth in spirit. And for most people, the songs of that evening would linger in their hearts for quite some
time.
