News

Mass held to formally close the Pauline Year

MANILA, June 30, 2009—A Eucharistic Celebration concelebrated by several archbishops, bishops,   priests and religious was held yesterday at the Manila Cathedral in Intramuros, Manila as the year-long celebration of the Pauline Year ended.

The conclusion of the Pauline year coincided with the celebration of Pope’s Day which is a day of prayer for the intentions of the successor of St. Peter.

Led by Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales and Archbishop Edward Joseph Adams, Apostolic Nuncio in the Philippines, the celebration also served as occasion for the opening of the Year for Priests in the Archdiocese of Manila.

The celebration of the Pope’s day is said to be a way of deepening awareness on the papacy and the papal teachings.

It is also a means to broaden the knowledge of the people on the spiritual leadership of the Pope.

Papal Nuncio said in his homily that the day was also the celebration of the two great apostles:  St. Peter and St. Paul.

“St. Peter and St. Paul are icons of faith,” he said. 

He also said Pope Benedict XVI is the successor of St. Peter who is tasked to enrich the faith of the whole Christendom.

“On the Feast of the two great apostles, we are here to celebrate Peter’s successor,” he said adding that “St. Peter and St. Paul continue to inspire us even today in the person of the Pope.”

The Apostolic Nuncio also recalled St. John Vianney, Patron of the Year for Priests, for his great faith that should be emulated by every priest.  

(Kate Laceda)