Archbishop Palma Stresses Family Unity and Education at Sto Niño Celebration in Cebu City

CEBU CITY: Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma highlighted the significance of family and education during the Solemn Pontifical Mass in honor of Sr. Sto. Niño at the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu’s Pilgrim Center on Sunday. The Archbishop’s message focused on the crucial role of both formal education and parental guidance in fostering faith among the youth.

According to Philippines News Agency, the value of family unity and the education of children are paramount. He emphasized this in his homily, delivered in a blend of English and Cebuano, during the mass attended by a multitude of devotees. Palma expressed his appreciation for parents who bring their children to participate in the Fiesta Señor religious activities, viewing it as a vital method of promoting faith among the younger generation.

Palma also remarked on Cebu’s status as a hub for students from around the world, noting its historical significance as Asia’s cradle of Christianity. He thanked parents who encourage their children to pursue a sound Christian education, acknowledging the pivotal role of such education in nurturing faith and wisdom.

Reflecting on the resilience of Cebuano families, the Archbishop recalled their survival and recovery from several calamities. He mentioned the 7.2-magnitude earthquake in 2013 that damaged the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño and other churches in Bohol, the aftermath of Super Typhoon Yolanda, and the recent challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, which claimed thousands of Cebuano lives.

Despite these hardships, Archbishop Palma pointed out that Cebu has been blessed with significant religious events with global impact. He cited the International Eucharistic Congress in 2016 and the Quincentennial celebrations of Ferdinand Magellan’s arrival, which marked 500 years of Christianity in the Philippines. He reminded the congregation of Cebu’s historical importance, being the site of the country’s first baptism and mass.

The Pontifical Mass, a central part of the Sto. Niño festivities, was also concelebrated by Cebu Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus Antonio Rañola and other priests, symbolizing the deep-rooted faith and unity of the Catholic community in Cebu.