The faithful community gathered in a vibrant display of faith and tradition this past Sunday afternoon, January 18, 2026, to celebrate the 35th Senior Santo Niño Fiesta at the Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Oratory in Dandan, Saipan.
The Eucharistic celebration was presided by His Excellency, Most Rev. Romeo D. Convocar, Bishop of Chalan Kanoa. Joining him at the altar were concelebrants Very Rev. Charlie A. Borja and Rev. Fr. Isidro Ogumoro. The liturgy was further assisted by Deacons Tony Yarobwemal and Rosiky Camacho, creating a solemn and reverent atmosphere for the hundreds of faithful in attendance.
A Milestone of Faith
This year marked the 35th anniversary of the Senior Santo Niño devotion in the village of Dandan, a testament to the enduring spiritual connection the community maintains with the Holy Child. During the homily, the clergy emphasized the importance of childlike trust and the historical roots of the Santo Niño devotion, which remains a cornerstone of Catholic identity for many in the Northern Mariana Islands.
The Spirit of Sinulog
Following the Mass, the solemnity of the Oratory transitioned into a joyful celebration. The faithful participated in the traditional Sinulog dance. Participants carried beautifully adorned images of the Santo Niño as they weaved through the Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Oratory compound. The air was filled with the shouts of “Viva Pit Señor!” as devotees expressed their gratitude and petitions through movement.
Community Fellowship
The celebration concluded with a grand display of hospitality. In the spirit of the fiesta, organizers and volunteers served a variety of snacks and a full dinner to all attendees. The communal meal provided an opportunity for parishioners from across the island to share in fellowship, reflecting the unity and warmth of the Saipan community.
As the sun set over Dandan, the 35th Senior Santo Niño Fiesta drew to a close, leaving the faithful spiritually refreshed and ready to carry the message of the Holy Child into the new year.
Check the photos here: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?vanity=dioceseofchalankanoa&set=a.929632156127941
