Archbishop Palma celebrates Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, encourages devotion and deepening faith
Cebu Archbishop Jose S. Palma delivered an inspiring message during the Eucharistic celebration for the Feast Day of Our Lady of Mount Carmel at the Carmelite Monastery in Cebu City, Philippines, on July 16.
The Archbishop led the pontifical Mass with 30 other diocesan priests, visiting clergy, and hundreds of devotees and pilgrims, many of whom filled the chapel grounds despite the cloudy weather and light rain showers.
He expressed gratitude to the faithful for attending the novena Masses and participating in the popular Marian feast.
“What a beautiful expression of thanksgiving to our Lord and our love for Mama Mary, Our Lady of Mount Carmel,” Palma remarked, acknowledging the large turnout despite the weather conditions.
He highlighted that this year’s celebration coincides with the 75th anniversary of the founding of Cebu Carmel and serves as preparation for the Jubilee Year 2025, which will be opened by the Holy Father on December 24, 2024.
Referencing the first reading from the Old Testament, where the prophet Elijah proved his service to the true God against the false god Baal worshipped by the Israelites, Palma said, “If we follow the Lord if you serve the Lord, your life may not be easy.” He emphasized that standing for the values of the Lord often brings opposition.
“The story of the prophet Elijah reminds us that if God is with us, who can be against us? In the end, God will triumph. We thank God for the faith which is stronger than our fears. Because of our faith, we can overcome trials. In the journey of life, we do not walk alone; God is with us,” he said.
Palma also highlighted the importance of Mary, referencing John 19:26-27, where Jesus entrusts His mother to the disciple John, symbolizing her care for all humanity. “Mama Mary is with us in our life’s journey. Mother Church asks us to have devotion to her. It is often said that we could not have progress in spiritual life if we do not have devotion to Mama Mary.”
He urged the faithful to consecrate themselves to Mary, emphasizing that devotion to the Mother of God is more than reciting prayers.
“It is about intimacy with God, following Mary’s contemplative life, and being aware of God’s presence in one’s daily life,” he concluded.
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