Manila: Catholic Church officials reminded the faithful to be inspired by the virtues of the Blessed Virgin Mary. In separate New Year's messages, Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula and Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) president Archbishop Gilbert Garcera urged Filipino Catholics to follow Mary's example and welcome the new year with a trusting heart.
According to Philippines News Agency, Cardinal Advincula emphasized the importance of trusting in God, drawing from how the Virgin Mary responded to the message of the Angel without having clear answers. He noted that despite her lack of understanding of the events unfolding in her life, Mary exhibited trust in God and encouraged the faithful to approach the New Year with courage and faith, akin to Mary's example.
Cardinal Advincula urged the faithful to embrace the new year with an open heart, akin to that of Mary, which is open to mystery and anchored in trust. He emphasized placing trust in God and encouraged placing families and the country in God's loving and merciful heart. Additionally, he echoed Pope Francis' call for peace in 2026, advocating for a peace achieved through humility, dialogue, mercy, and trust rather than force or fear.
The Cardinal's message also highlighted the significance of inner peace, urging the rejection of violence and domination in favor of a peaceful and disarming way of life. He expressed a deep conviction that the world, and the country in particular, are in dire need of peace that brings joy and hope. Cardinal Advincula called for continuous prayer for peace, justice, truth, and accountability, emphasizing the importance of unity and solidarity in the journey ahead.
Archbishop Garcera also addressed the faithful, urging them to turn to the Virgin Mary as they enter the year 2026. He invoked Mary's title of Odigitria, meaning "she who shows and guides the Way," and expressed hope that her blessings would endow the faithful with enduring hope amidst their expectations for the new year.
