MANILA, Philippines: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. delivered a powerful message on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, urging the Filipino faithful to find strength in the narrative of Mary’s conception without sin. In a country where 80 percent of the population are Catholic, Marcos emphasized the importance of embracing virtues such as purity, modesty, and faith.
During these challenging times, President Marcos called on Filipinos to draw inspiration from the Immaculate Conception and overcome their limitations. He encouraged them to tap into their inner strengths and view the world with grateful hearts, reflecting on the deep meaning of their purpose in life.
President Marcos highlighted the significance of sharing blessings with the poor and marginalized as a way of perpetuating peace, generosity, and kindness. He emphasized that by fortifying their Christian faith, Filipinos could inspire others to join in this mission and create a better society for all.
In his address, President Marcos also called for fervent prayers for the continued guidance of the Lord Almighty and the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary. He urged the nation to come together and work towards building the “Bagong Pilipinas” or the New Philippines that Filipinos aspire for.
“We pray for continued hope and divine guidance in building the Bagong Pilipinas that we aspire for,” President Marcos said.
The Feast of the Immaculate Conception is a significant celebration in the Catholic community, commemorating Mary’s conception without sin. While it falls within the liturgical season of Advent, which prepares for the birth of Jesus Christ, the Immaculate Conception specifically refers to the conception of Mary in the womb of her mother, St. Anne.
The observance of this feast began with a Papal encyclical by Pope Pius IX in 1854. In his encyclical, Ineffabilis Deus, Pope Pius IX formally defined the dogma of the Immaculate Conception, solidifying its importance within the Catholic faith.
President Marcos’ call to action on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception resonates deeply with the Filipino people. It reminds them of the values and virtues they hold dear, and the responsibility they have towards their fellow citizens.
By drawing inspiration from the Immaculate Conception, Filipinos can find the strength to overcome challenges and embrace the virtues of purity, modesty, and faith. Through acts of generosity and kindness, they can create a society that upholds peace and supports the marginalized.
President Marcos’ message serves as a reminder to all Filipinos of the power of their Christian faith and the importance of sharing blessings with others. As they come together to build the “Bagong Pilipinas,” they do so with hope, guided by their faith and the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
The Feast of the Immaculate Conception holds a special place in the hearts of Filipinos, and President Marcos’ call to action on this occasion serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for the nation.
Source: The Manila Times
