Godspeed, Fr. Lino!
A farewell program in honor of the departing parish priest, Fr. Lino de Castro, took place yesterday in a bittersweet atmosphere at the Parroquia de la Comunidad Filipina in Barcelona on March 8, 2026.
Many were moved to tears as they offered their heartfelt goodbyes to their beloved spiritual leader. For countless members of the community, his departure was deeply painful, as they struggled to understand the circumstances that led to it. To lose Fr. Lino was to lose a guiding light—a mentor, a shepherd, and a father figure who had helped strengthen the faith and unity of the Filipino Catholic community.
The San Agustín Church was filled with a dense crowd of grieving parishioners. Faces reflected disbelief and sorrow. Many wished they could protest the situation, others longed to leave cheerful words, yet most felt trapped in a surreal moment—unable to change what had already been decided, unable to turn back time.
Before the formal program began, a communal meal was served, lovingly prepared by members of the community to foster fellowship. This luncheon, shared by hundreds, was made possible through the generous contributions of the faithful who deeply valued the humble and effective leadership of their parish priest.
The program, masterfully hosted by Maribel Angeles, featured short but heartfelt messages from representatives of the parish’s various groups. Children and youth offered songs of gratitude and love, thanking Fr. Lino for his tireless service and dedication. Speakers acknowledged his leadership, his many pastoral initiatives, and the spiritual growth he inspired within the community.
Tokens of affection—including gifts and albums of cherished memories—were presented as symbols of gratitude and appreciation. A touching video prepared by the youth was also shown, highlighting special moments from his ministry: celebrations, community events, and his warm interactions with parishioners. (click here to watch the video)
Some speakers struggled to hold back tears while holding the microphone. Others sang songs that spoke of enduring love and faith. Many shared personal stories that revealed Fr. Lino’s human side—his humor, his kindness, his friendliness, and his approachable nature.
A few voices sought to offer hope, reminding everyone that this painful goodbye might not be a final farewell, but perhaps a transition toward a new mission—one that would not erase the deep bonds he had formed with the community.
At 6:00 PM, the usual Sunday Mass was celebrated, though this time it carried a special weight. Four priests from Catalonia joined Fr. Lino at the altar, a gesture of solidarity and respect for the community he had served with such dedication.
The Mass concluded with a surprise presentation of a large cake organized by Jane Carud and presented by Liza Ranoco, a small but heartfelt gesture of love and appreciation. This was the second of two cakes especially made for Fr. Lino. The first one, sponsored by the parents of the catechist, was given in the 10:00 AM Sunday mass.
It was not a celebration in the usual sense. It was a moment of sorrow, of tears, and of gratitude. Yet amid the sadness, the faithful tried to draw strength from one comforting thought—that Fr. Lino’s legacy will endure, long after this goodbye.
Godspeed, Fr. Lino!
Read also:
Hard Goodbye to an Excellent Priest
by Felix Capili
