Today, on the eve of the Solemnity of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Cebu Archbishop Alberto “Abet” S. Uy presided over the Holy Mass at the Carmelites Monastery in Mabolo, Cebu City.

Anchoring his reflections on the Scripture readings, Archbishop Abet reminded the faithful never to underestimate God’s work which may start out small.

Recalling how the Lord answered the prophet Elijah’s prayer for rain through a cloud no bigger than a man’s hand, he emphasized that God often begins His greatest works through humble and insignificant signs that eventually bear abundant fruit.

“Moreklamo ta sa mga gagmay nga lihok sa Diyos. Gusto ta’g dako para masulbad ang problema, pero dili man ingon ana molihok ang Diyos. God often begins with something small, but that small cloud soon brought abundant rain,” exhorted Archbishop Abet.

He also reminded the faithful that while many aspire to change the nation and the world, God first calls each person to begin with himself and within his own home through concrete acts of integrity, reconciliation, unity, and personal conversion.

Reflecting on the devotion to Our Lady of Mount Carmel, the good Archbishop clarified that wearing the Brown Scapular is neither a superstition nor a lucky charm. Rather, it is an outward sign of one’s commitment to live a Christian life.

“The Scapular is a sign of belonging. If we wear the Scapular, let us also wear the virtues of Mama Mary,” said Archbishop Abet.

Tomorrow, July 16, Prosperidad Bishop Ruben C. Labajo will preside over the 4:00 PM Pontifical Mass in honor of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, which will be followed by the Solemn Procession.