Tagle to faithful: Be humble like Christ

MANILA, Philippines - Jesus suffered just as the poor and the oppressed are suffering.

Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle made this reminder in his Passion Sunday message, as he called on the country’s Catholic faithful to follow the humility of Christ.

“Jesus can be known among people with humility. Those sent by God are humble just like Jesus,” the prelate said in his homily during the mass at the Manila Cathedral yesterday, marking the start of Holy Week.

Jesus, according to Tagle, is “present among the poor, oppressed in society, those being insulted in this world, people who keep silent even when slapped in the face.”

The head of the country’s Catholic hierarchy stressed that people who are suffering just as Christ suffered “have dignity because only God knows the truth.

“He pointed out Jesus allowed Himself to be maltreated, stripped naked and crucified as if He were not Son of God.

Tagle urged the faithful to take the Holy Week observance and Lenten break to get to know Jesus better.

“It’s important that we again deepen our understanding of Jesus,” he further stated in his Palm Sunday sermon.

“I hope those who will attend the different activities here at the cathedral this week will focus on that. Who is Jesus? Who is He that we follow?” added Tagle.

The Cardinal will also lead other Holy Week activities at the Manila Cathedral such as the Chrism Mass and the Mass of the Lord’s Supper, which includes the washing of the feet, on Holy Thursday, April 13.On Good Friday, April 14, the Church will mark the Commemoration of the Lord’s Passion, through the Stations of the Cross, Veneration of the Cross and Seven Last Words.

The Holy Week observance will end with the Easter celebration on Sunday, April 16.

Spiritual renewal

Malacañang also called for spiritual renewal among the faithful, as the country began its observance of the Holy Week.

“Lent is the Christian retelling of the human themes of sacrifice, love and hope,” presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella yesterday said.

“May it be a time of spiritual renewal to strengthen genuine love and deep compassion for fellow Filipinos; and lead us to renew our unjust social structures – so that many who have been deprived of their dreams can lead rewarding and productive lives,” he said.

Abella then wished for “a quiet and renewing week for all.” – With Christina Mendez