Commemoration of the Feast of St. Clement of Rome

As part of the celebration of the Angono Town Fiesta, Loyola Retreat House joins the community in honoring St. Clement of Rome, Pope, Apostolic Father, Martyr, and Patron Saint of Angono.

St. Clement I (c. 35–99), also known as Clement of Rome, is traditionally regarded as the third successor of St. Peter, following Linus and Anacletus. He served as Bishop of Rome from approximately AD by 88 to 99.
According to tradition, he was a disciple of the Apostles Peter and Paul or was closely associated with their immediate followers. He is best remembered for his First Epistle to the Corinthians, one of the earliest Christian writings outside the New Testament. This important document appealed for unity, harmony, and order within the Church, offering timeless guidance to the Christian community.
During the reign of Emperor Trajan, Clement’s fearless proclamation of the Christian faith led to his arrest and exile to Crimea, where he was condemned to hard labor in the stone quarries. Even in exile, he continued to proclaim the Gospel, bringing many prisoners and local inhabitants to the Christian faith. Tradition recounts that he was eventually martyred by having an anchor tied around his neck before being cast into the Black Sea. The anchor has since become an enduring symbol of the steadfast faith and hope he proclaimed until his final breath.
In a special expression of devotion, the relic of St. Clement of Rome will be made available for public veneration at the Chapel of the Risen Lord, Loyola Retreat House, from November 14 to 23, 2026, in time for the nine-day novena in honor of the beloved patron saint.
All are warmly invited to visit the chapel, join in prayer, and venerate the sacred relic of St. Clement.
St. Clement of Rome, Pope and Martyr, pray for us 🙏 Amen.

Pol Mesina, Jr. (+)
SAN CLEMENTE
12 x 12 inches
Acrylic on canvas
2022