MANILA, Sept. 29, 2012—The mark of faith is alive in someone who proclaims to the world the truth about God, said Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Tagle during his homily at the culminating Mass of the National Laity Week on September 28.
The archbishop emphasized that those who witness the Christian faith in their lives are truly convinced of the truth of God in Jesus, which is the real meaning of martyrdom.
“Martyrdom is not just being a martyr but by proclaiming the faith. When you are suffering and yet you continue to pursue love and faith in God, that is the sign of martyrdom. It is not easy because it comes with grace and has to be a gift to you from God,” he said.
He pointed out that San Lorenzo Ruiz and Blessed Pedro Calungsod are the proofs that Filipino Christians have the capacity to offer themselves to God and their fellowmen. And that the two saints, who were lay people, offered their life for the faith and love of God.
He also expressed his gratefulness to lay people in their mission in helping the Church to become strong.
Tagle stressed that the canonization of Pedro Calungsod is a gift to the Filipino people.
“The canonization of these Filipino saints, are not only a boost to the lay vocation, ministry and vocation. It is probably God’s way of telling you lay people in the Philippines that you are the bearers of holiness and sanctity,” he declared.
More than 800 lay people, religious communities and students attended the closing mass at the University of Sto. Tomas Seminary Chapel. The activity was also a preparation for the upcoming canonization of Blessed Pedro Calungsod on October 21 in Rome. (Jandel Posion)
