In preparation for the patronal feast of the National Shrine of St. Joseph in Mandaue City, Cebu Archbishop Alberto “Abet” Uy presided over the 5:30 PM First Day Novena Mass today, with the theme, “St. Joseph: Model of Deep Listening that Leads to Faith and Conversion.”

He was joined by the shrine’s team of pastors led by Msgr. Rogelio Fuentes, PC (Vicar General), along with other visiting priests.

Archbishop Abet, in his homily, invited the faithful to reflect on the quiet yet meaningful life of St. Joseph, particularly his work as a carpenter—simple, hidden, yet deeply sanctified in the eyes of God. He emphasized that no work done with love and offered to God is ever insignificant.

“Si Señor San Jose ordinaryo kaayo, panday lang gud siya. Pero di ta angay moingon og ‘lang gyod.’ Panday siya. Simple nga trabaho pero uban sa kahayag. Ang iyang simple nga trabaho nahimong balaan atubangan sa Diyos,” he said.

He then encouraged the faithful to imitate St. Joseph’s quiet fidelity—working diligently without seeking recognition, yet remaining fully aware that God sees and values every act done in love.

“Mga igsuon, I hope mapareho ta ni Señor San Jose, hilom lang, nagtrabaho sa hilom. Nasayod siya nga bisan walay tawo nga nagtan-aw adunay usa didto sa langit nga nagsud-ong kaniya,” he said.

On May 8, the Shrine will celebrate its annual feast with Prosperidad Bishop Ruben Labajo presiding over the 10:00 AM Pontifical Mass.