Manila Cardinal Jose Advincula calls on the faithful to embark on “Pilgrimages of Prayer” in 2024 to prepare for the Jubilee 2025.
In his New Year message, the prelate urged the people to “go back to the centrality of prayer” in their lives.
“The Holy Father Pope Francis has asked that 2024 be a “Year of Prayer” in preparation for the Jubilee 2025,” Advincula said.
“I invite you to embark on ‘Pilgrimages of Prayer’ this year. Let every ecclesial community go back to the centrality of prayer in our life as missionary disciples of Jesus,” he added.
The archbishop also called on the Catholics to “open doors” and engage in dialogues, renewal of self, stewardship, community building, as well as bridging gaps and promoting equality.
“The Year 2024 is the Year of the Lord. As all years, epochs, and spaces are. We are pilgrims of hope together. There will be challenges along the way. But we are always assured that He walks with us. And so, we begin our journey, with courage and faith,” Advincula added.
Meanwhile, more than 30 masses will be held during the annual celebration of the Feast of the Black Nazarene on Jan. 9.
The Church-run Radio Veritas reported that the organizers of the Nazareno feast will begin activities at 11:30 p.m. for the usual thanksgiving procession around the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene or the Quiapo Church.
From Dec. 31 to Jan. 8, 2024, the “Misa Nobenaryo” (Novena Mass) will be h ld, to be aired live on Radio Veritas 846AM.
Other activities include the village visitation on Jan. 1 to 6, while the replica blessing and procession will be held on Jan. 3 and 4 at 1:30 p.m.
On Jan. 6 at 6 p.m., the Mass for the volunteers will be held, followed by the opening of the “Pahalik” or kissing of the Nazareno at 7 p.m. until Jan. 8 at the Quirino Grandstand.
The “Panalangin sa Takipsilim” (prayers by nightfall) will be held on Jan. 8 at 5:30 p.m., to be followed by a vigil and other programs at 6 p.m.
Cardinal Advincula will lead the Fiesta Mass at midnight on Jan. 9, also at the Quirino Grandstand.
The Fiesta Masses will start Jan. 8 from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Following the one officiated by Advincula, Masses will continue until 11 p.m. at the church
Overall, there will be 33 Masses.
Although the traditional procession will be brought back, organizers noted that it will be unique as the image will be placed in a glass case to provide protection and devotees will have the opportunity to see it during the procession.
The theme of Nazareno 2024 is “We want to see Jesus.”