IN HIS first public mass since he was released from the hospital after recovering Covid-19, Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma, on Wednesday, March 17, 2021, reminded the faithful that the life of San Pedro Calungsod is an inspiration in which the faithful can learn to be grateful and appreciate the gift of faith.
The prelate, in his homily during the opening salvo mass for the 22nd annual fiesta in honor of the Visayan martyr, said even though not all of the faithful will be canonized or become a saint, the faithful and devotees may be inspired to follow his footsteps and examples.
“Some of the saints have to shed their blood. We are not called to die for the faith, but we are called to live for the faith and this is where we are,” he said.
To show true gratefulness for the 500 years of Christianity in the country celebrated this year, Palma said the faithful may also be inspired by Calungsod to “be with the saints in heaven” in the afterlife.
Charity
Palma also said that people should not wait for the time that they have abundant life in order for them to share what they have to the needy.
He said the important thing is the act of sharing, the substance of charity.
Remembering San Pedro Calungsod, Palma said the faithful can thank God for his instruments in nurturing their faith; these include the families and parents who have helped grow the faith of their kin through catechism.
Before the 6 p.m. mass held at the Archbishop’s Residence in Cebu City, the Archdiocese unveiled the stone marker containing a decree declaring the chapel of Blessed Pedro Calungsod an archdiocesan shrine.
The novena masses are scheduled from March 18 to 26. The feast will be celebrated on March 27 as the original feast date, April 2, falls onGood Friday during Lent.
The Archdiocese said a plenary indulgence may be gained each day upon visiting the shrine from March 17 to 27.
One must also go to sacramental confession, receive the holy communion and pray for the intentions of the Pope. (WBS)