On this Good Friday, Cebu Archbishop Alberto “Abet” S. Uy presided over the Celebration of the Lord’s Passion at the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral.
Together with him were Cebu Archbishop-Emeritus Jose Palma, the Cathedral’s team of pastors, Siete Palabras priest-speakers, and other visiting priests.
Archbishop Abet pointed out in his homily that while the Passion narrative is proclaimed each year, it continues to invite the faithful into deeper reflection, revealing that this story is not only about Christ, but also about our challenges in today’s world.
From betrayal to faithfulness
Reflecting on Good Friday, Archbishop Abet highlighted how Jesus remained faithful even when He was betrayed. He reminded the faithful that Jesus did not turn away or give up, but continued His mission with love, embracing the Cross until the very end.
“Mga igsoon, ning kalibutan nga puno sa pagbudhi, gitawag kita ni Jesus nga mahimong lahi sa uban. Matinud-anon sa Ginoo, matinud-anon sa pamilya, matinud-anon sa usag usa, matinud-anon sa atong bokasyon. Matinud-anon sa kamatuoran ug kaayo,” he said.
From suffering to meaning
Speaking about human suffering, Archbishop Abet explained that Good Friday shows us that, in Christ, suffering has meaning. He said that Jesus accepted pain and suffering out of love, reminding the faithful that the real problem today is not suffering itself, but when people fail to see its purpose.
He encouraged the faithful to carry their crosses by offering them to Christ, trusting that even their pain can be changed through God’s grace.
“Kung atong dad-on ang atong Krus ngadto kang Jesus, ang atong kasakit mahimo nang halad. Ang atong mga samad mahimo nang grasya. Ang atong mga pag-antos mahimong nang bilihong sakripisyo nga magbunga’g kaayo,” Archbishop Abet said.
From indifference to compassion
Looking at the situation of the world today, Archbishop Abet said that one of the biggest problems is indifference, when people choose not to care about the suffering of others.
He reminded the faithful that Good Friday calls them to avoid this attitude, and instead stay with Christ by being present to those who suffer.
He urged everyone not to turn away, but to help carry the burdens of others, showing compassion through concrete actions.
“Tabangi sa pagdala sa ilang mga krus. Pili-a ang magpakitag kalooy imbis nga dili magpakabana kay ang gugma nga tinuod dili lamang pagbati, kondili lihok nga makig-unong,” he said.