Lingayen-dagupan: Archbishop Socrates Villegas emphasized on Wednesday that true devotion to Mary, the mother of Christ, should lead to transformed lives characterized by obedience and courage. Speaking during the Centennial Canonical Coronation Anniversary Celebration of the Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary of Manaoag, Villegas highlighted the importance of internal change over superficial religious observance.
According to Philippines News Agency, Villegas stated, "The changes that need to be implemented are on our lives. Because if our lives do not change, the devotion to the Beloved Virgin Mary is lacking." He noted that while changing churches or archdioceses is relatively simple, the true mission of Mary is to inspire personal transformation to emulate Jesus. Villegas stressed the virtues of obedience and bravery, citing Mary's steadfast presence at the crucifixion as an example of courage.
Villegas also reflected on the long-standing devotion of Filipino Catholics to Mary, describing the nation as both a Christian and Marian country. He referenced the historical title "Pueblo Amante de Maria," meaning "people beloved of Mary," to illustrate the deep connection between Filipinos and the Virgin Mary, particularly the Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag, who is revered as the mother of Pangasinan.
The event was marked by the attendance of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., continuing a family tradition initiated by his grandmother, Do±a Josefa Edralin Marcos, who led the golden canonical celebration in 1975. Both President Marcos and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos participated in the centennial celebration, which featured a historic coronation led by Papal Nuncio to the Philippines, Archbishop Charles Brown.
Archbishop Brown presided over the pontifical Mass and the afternoon procession, with President Marcos holding the crown before the ceremonial coronation. The image of Our Lady of Manaoag, canonically crowned in 1926, holds a significant place in Filipino faith as the third Marian image to receive such recognition in the Philippines.
The theme of the celebration, "In¡n Mari¡: Crowned in Grace, Calling Us to Jesus," underscored the image's role in guiding the faithful toward Christ. In his invocation prayer, President Marcos expressed hope that the centennial celebration would strengthen the faith of Filipinos and inspire a commitment to serve others with love and compassion. He also praised the image for its century-long recognition for unwavering maternal care and intercession.
Marcos concluded with a prayer for blessings through the intercession of Our Lady of The Rosary of Manaoag, seeking her guidance as a beacon of light in challenging times and expressing gratitude for her role as the beloved patroness of Pangasinan.
