Today, the Archdiocesan Shrine of St. Therese of the Child Jesus in Lahug, Cebu City, held its first day of novena in preparation for the feast of St. Therese of the Child Jesus, the titular and patroness of the parish.
Cebu Archbishop Alberto “Abet” Uy presided over the Novena Mass, joined by the parish team of pastors, led by Fr. Joseph Yntig, along with the visiting priests.
In his homily, Archbishop Abet reflected on the life, challenges, and suffering of St. Therese. He reminded the faithful that in life, there is a time for everything: a time for comfort and a time for difficulties. He emphasized that all these are temporary and that God will never abandon us.
Like St. Therese, whose faith was challenged when she was faced with illness and the reality of death at a very young age, we are reminded that she never let go of God.
“Mga igsoon, just continue to believe. God is in control. When you are with Him, everything is safe,” said the good Archbishop.
Before the final blessing, Archbishop Abet, together with the team of pastors, led the unveiling of the official Coat of Arms of the parish. This was followed by the blessing of the parish’s Synodal Function Room after the Mass.