The National Shrine of St. Joseph in Mandaue City.
Photo credit: Mary Rose Sagarino
Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma has urged the Catholic faithful to spend their Lenten break reflecting and praying in church instead of heading to the beach. According to Palma, Holy Week is the most solemn period in the Church’s liturgical calendar and it offers the best opportunity to renew one’s relationship with God and reflect on the Lord’s sacrifice. Palma emphasized that people tend to forget the real essence of Holy Week because of their desire to take a vacation. He called on the people to take part in various Church activities and appreciate God’s all-encompassing love, adding that this is the best time to ponder on God’s great love for humanity, which was manifested through suffering and death.
All churches are now open to accommodate the faithful, unlike in 2020 and 2021 when restrictions were in place due to the pandemic. The Holy Week, which started with Palm Sunday, marks the end of the 40-day season of Lent leading to a celebration of Christ’s resurrection on Easter Sunday.
