Archbishop to Peñafrancia devotees: 'Fear missing out on the mission entrusted to us'
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By Natalie Hazel Quimlat
"Do not be mere spectators."
Speaking to hundreds of devotees of Ina, Our Lady of Peñafrancia, at the Basilica Minore de Peñafrancia in Naga City last May 22, Caceres Archbishop Rex Andrew Alarcon emphasized the pillars of a synodal church: communion, participation and mission.
Devotion must deepen our sense of communion with others, the Archbishop said. "It must let us grow in empathy, compassion and solidarity towards others."
"We desire a Church that walks with us, a Church that is in our midst."
The Archbishop urged the devotees to ask themselves what they need to change or do more to make the Church more inclusive and in communion with others.
He gave the Peñafrancia de Mayo as an example of an inclusive Church, a Church that allows women to participate in the devotional practices traditionally joined by men alone. Such an example is the fluvial procession. The pagoda is boarded by men every September, and by women every May.
Alarcon also emphasized the Caceres Jubilee team: "Gabos kaayon, Gabos may gibúbon", calling all those present to actively participate in the life of the Church.
He decried selfishness and greed, hindrances to true service to God and others.
In closing, Alarcon called the devotees to a life of mission, to fear missing out on the mission entrusted to us by God.
"The Lord desires that the Good News reaches everyone."
The eucharistic celebration capped the Peñafrancia de Mayo on the occasion of the 44th dedication of the Basilica. Currently, Fr. Eugene Lubigan serves as the Rector of the Basilica, with Fr. Jene Lois Sarmiento as Vice-Rector.
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