Hope takes spotlight in cardinals’ Christmas Eve homilies
Metro Manila, Philippines - The values of hope and hospitality were front and center in Filipino cardinals’ Christmas Eve homilies as they shared the story of Nativity.
Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula said in his message on Tuesday evening, Dec. 24, that the circumstances of the “first Christmas” were “very much like ours” in the present day.
But he reminded devotees that they are not alone in their journey, adding God is with the people and that Jesus walks among them.
“Jesus, who was born among us tonight, is the reason for our hope. Without Jesus, there is no hope. His love makes us stronger to face all life's difficulties. His hope will not disappoint us. Let us start our journey together as pilgrims of hope,” Advincula said.
He announced that Pope Francis will officially open the 2025 Jubilee year with the theme “Pilgrims of Hope.”
READ: On Christmas Eve, Pope Francis appeals for courage to better the world
“Pope Francis wants to lead us to a year-long journey to restore a climate of hope and trust, to fan the flame of hope that has been given to us, and help everyone to gain new strength and certainty by looking to the future with an open spirit, a trusting heart, and farsighted vision,” the prelate said.
Caloocan Bishop Pablo Virgilio Cardinal David called on the faithful to destroy walls of conflict based on skin color, religion, race, gender, and social class.
He centered his preaching on hospitality as he discussed the conditions on how Jesus Christ was born in a manger.
“Ang Pasko ay isang paanyaya sa tao na magbukas ng puso at isip. Hindi lang mga tahanan, magbukas ng ating mga kaluluwa para patuluyin ng Diyos sa pamamagitan din ng ating pagpapatuloy sa isa't isa dahil tayong lahat ay magkakapatid,” David said.
[Translation: Christmas is an invitation for us to open our hearts and minds. Not only homes, but opening our souls to let God come in by being hospitable to everyone as we are all brothers.]
The Philippines is predominantly a Roman Catholic nation and among the largest Catholic countries in the world. Currently, there are three active cardinals installed serving as the Pope’s close advisors and electors of his successor.
