On this Feast of St. Therese of the Child Jesus, Cebu Archbishop-Emeritus Jose S. Palma presided over the Holy Mass at the St. Joseph Chapel, Archbishop’s Residence, D. Jakosalem St., Cebu City, on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of Missionary Catechists of St. Therese of the Infant Jesus (MCST) presence in the Archdiocese of Cebu.
Despite the mixed feelings caused by the recent earthquake, the good Archbishop-Emeritus said in his homily that there is still inner joy because, even in all of this, God is with us.
He also urged the faithful to draw inspiration from the life of St. Therese who taught us that greatness lies not in grand gestures but in small acts of love and kindness.
“In today’s world when the culture exalts the success of the individual and then focuses on oneself, the life of St. Therese is a reminder that life is a gift, but when we think of others, then that life would have meaning,” said Archbishop Palma.
During the Holy Mass, the religious sisters of MCST renewed their vows.
Founded by Bishop Alfredo Obviar, the MCST continues to serve as a vehicle to lead people to a personal communion with Jesus through catechesis at all levels: children, youth, and adults, reaching out to different places, including urban and rural areas, and wherever catechesis and other services are needed.