Cebu archdiocese mourns famed priest-composer, Msgr. Rudy Villanueva

Tributes poured in after the Archdiocese of Cebu announced the passing of Msgr. Rudy Villanueva, a renowned composer of secular and timeless liturgical songs.

"It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of one of the pillars of seminary formation in the Archdiocese of Cebu, an award-winning and prolific literary writer who is known for his pen name “Renato E. Madrid” a well-known composer and arranger of liturgical music, our ever revered Msgr. Rodolfo “Rudy” Villanueva," according to a statement posted on social media.

"During this time of mourning, we offer our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all those who had the honor of knowing him."

In the Facebook page of the Cebu Archdiocesan Shrine of Saint Pedro Calungsod, "Msgr. Villanueva has been an important part of the devotion to Saint Pedro Calungsod."

Villanueva was the composer of devotional songs dedicated to the first Visayan saint, including Way Sukod man ang Pagmahal (Love has No Measure), By the Power of your Giving, and the Gozos of Saint Pedro Calungsod.

Pope John XXIII Seminary officials also announced a period of mourning with the postponement of some activities.

"This period of mourning is a time for reflection and remembrance of the remarkable contributions Monsignor Rudy has made to our community and the impact he has on each one of us."

Celestial Voices, a Cebu-based choir, said "Today, we mourn the loss of a beloved music gem of Cebu, Rev. Fr. Monsignor Rudy Villanueva. His music, a true testament to his passion and talent, touched the hearts of many. His compositions, filled with beauty and devotion, have become a cherished part of our cultural and spiritual heritage."

"Msgr. Rudy’s melodies were more than just songs; they were prayers set to music, lifting spirits and bringing communities together. His dedication to his faith and his art leaves a lasting impact on all who had the privilege to hear his work."

"We thank him for the music he created, which will continue to inspire and comfort us for generations to come. May eternal rest shine upon him, and may his soul find peace in the embrace of the Divine," the group posted.

The University of San Jose-Recoletos credits Msgr. Villanueva as the composer of the college hymn.

"Josenians pause for a moment of silence before singing the Alma Mater Hymn today at the Recoletos Coliseum to pay homage to Msgr. Rudy Villanueva who made the musical arrangements for the said hymn which has been sung since 1977," the institution said in a statement, adding that "Msgr. Rudy collaborated with lyricist Rev. Fr. Blas Montenegro, OAR to come up with the hymn."

The wake is being held at the San Carlos Seminary College in Cebu City.

A Mass for the Dead will be offered at the Carmelite Monastery at 8:00 a.m. on June 4, Tuesday this will be followed by the funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. at the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral. — BAP, GMA Integrated News