In celebration of the 400th Anniversary of the Arrival of Nuestra Señora de la Paz y Buen Viaje in the Philippine Islands, the Diocese of Antipolo has embarked on a historic pilgrimage, retracing the centuries-old journeys of its beloved Patroness by bringing her pilgrim image to selected archdioceses, dioceses, and ports across the country.
The revered image arrived in Cebu last Friday, July 17, marking another significant chapter in its nationwide pilgrimage.
Earlier today, devotees gathered in prayer for a solemn foot procession from the Apostleship of the Sea – Stella Maris Center to the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral.
Upon its arrival at the Cathedral, Cebu Archbishop Alberto “Abet” Uy presided over the Eucharistic Celebration, concelebrated by Fr. Manjorey O. Padilla (Parochial Vicar of Antipolo Cathedral); Fr. John Mission (Chaplain of Stella Maris–Cebu); the Cathedral’s team of pastors; and other visiting priests.
In his homily, Archbishop Abet reflected on the enduring witness of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage, whose maternal presence has accompanied generations of Filipinos for four centuries.
He recalled how sailors, fishermen, migrants, travelers, parents, and all those carrying life’s burdens have continually sought her intercession, finding in her a faithful companion who always leads them to Christ.
“Like a loving mother, Mary has patiently accompanied generations of believers; she never grows tired of bringing her children back to Jesus. Ang inahan magpasensya gyud sa mga anak; ingon ana si Maria kanato. Dili siya mahutdan ug paglaum nga kita mausab. Iya kita giyahan kang Jesus,” Archbishop Abet said.
As a lasting gift of this historic visit, the Diocese of Antipolo formally entrusted the pilgrim image to the Archdiocese of Cebu under the care of the Stella Maris Apostleship of the Sea, ensuring that the devotion to Nuestra Señora de la Paz y Buen Viaje will continue to inspire the faithful in the years to come.
In a message, Antipolo Bishop Ruperto Cruz Santos expressed his hope that the image would remain a constant reminder of the Blessed Virgin’s enduring love and maternal care for her children.
“She has come to you. And she desires to remain in your hearts. A loving mother never comes empty-handed. She always brings gifts to her children,” Bishop Santos said.
The pilgrim image will remain at the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral until tomorrow morning before being transferred to the Archdiocesan Shrine of San Pedro Calungsod.