MANILA Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pabillo encouraged Catholics to be filled with fortitude during difficult times during Mass for the feast of all Thomasian Martyrs at Santisimo Rosario Parish Church last Nov. 6.
“We are all called to be saints [but] it’s not easy. Ang mga kapatid nating martyr, they shed their blood. It is a great honor and challenge for us, but we can also obtain sainthood [through our own ways],” Pabillo said in his homily.
The prelate recalled St. Paul’s example of accomplishing one’s mission despite knowing the dangers ahead.
“Despite that premonition (of being accused, imprisoned and executed), he continued in his journey. He did not surrender. Hindi siya tumigil kasi sabi niya kailangan niyang tapusin ang misyon na ibibigay sa kanya,” Pabillo said.
Pabillo told the faithful to continue fulfilling their mission despite being labeled as “conservatives” and scorned by today’s society.
“Kailangan nating manindigan. We must remember who God is. Our Lord Jesus Christ ended up dying on the cross, and we cannot follow him unless we too take up our cross,” he said.
UST also celebrated the feast day of Buenaventura Garcia Paredes, O.P., former Master of the Order of Preachers who was martyred during the religious persecution in Spain.
