Today, the Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes in Punta Princesa, Cebu City, celebrates its 68th Fiesta in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary with the theme, “Our Lady of Lourdes: Model of Enthusiastic, Firm, and Vibrant Hope.”
Cebu Auxiliary Bishop-Emeritus Emilio “Boy” Bataclan presided over the 4:00 PM Pontifical Mass. With him were Fr. Lamberto “Jhun” Paradiang, SDB (Parish Priest), the Salesians of Don Bosco (SDB) community, and other visiting priests.
“Maria is a woman for others, dili sa iyang kaugalingon.” Bishop Bataclan highlighted Mary’s selflessness, which she demonstrated through her unwavering commitment to serving others.
At the Wedding at Cana, Mary showed concern for the hosts by interceding when the wine ran out, ensuring the couple was spared from embarrassment. Her generosity was further evident when she traveled to assist her pregnant cousin Elizabeth, offering her time and care despite the personal sacrifice it entailed.
Bishop Bataclan added that despite being favored by God, Mary remained humble, never using her divine privilege for personal gain but always recognizing that all glory belongs to Him. Her life is a profound example of selfless love, compassion, and service, reminding us of the beauty of humility and devotion to others.
Pope Pius IX proclaimed the dogma of the Immaculate Conception in the apostolic constitution Ineffabilis Deus. This was prompted by the series of Young Lady’s appearances to Bernadette Soubirous on February 11, 1858.
The lady introduced herself by saying, “I am the Immaculate Conception,” during the apparition on March 25. In 1907, the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes became worldwide.
Written by: Joaquin Rodrico Rodriguez, Kyren Ayanee Cardenas (STC Interns)
Photos by: Cassandra Manguerra, Celina Beatrice Salazar, Sophia Isabelle Camarillo (STC Interns) | CADComM