Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 8) – Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula called on Catholics to be God’s instruments of hope amid difficulties during a mass for the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Mother on Friday.
“Like the palm tree, Mary also offered hope for pilgrim humankind,” Advincula said in his homily at the Manila Cathedral. “When we are overwhelmed with struggles and difficulties, she offers us her guidance and care.”
Describing her other virtues, Advincula said Mary is strong like a cypress tree, a proof of God’s providence like an olive tree, and honest and humble like a plain tree as she accepted her mission as the Mother of Christ and brought him into this world, even when she doubted at first.
“Like our Immaculate Mother, may we also imbue and practice these virtues,” he said.
Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines Archbishop Charles Brown and Msgr. Rolando Dela Cruz, Manila Cathedral rector, concelebrated the Holy Eucharist.
After the mass, the faithful were allowed to come near the image of the Blessed Mother to offer prayers, a practice previously prohibted due to COVID-19 pandemic.
The feast of the Immaculate Conception is a holy day of obligation that celebrates the conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary without original sin.
Catholics are expected to attend a mass during a holy day of obligation.
The Immaculate Conception was declared the country’s patroness by Pope Pius in September 1942.
