Tuesday, October 18, 2011

Blessed: A Call to Holiness


I was strolling along Ali Mall in Cubao when I chanced upon this poster of the late pontiff. A musical concert and liturgical celebration in honor of Blessed Pope John Paul II will be staged at the SMART Araneta Coliseum come October 29, 2011, Saturday, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. by the Diocese of Cubao. The event will be filled with thanksgiving, inspiring messages, and musical numbers. Among the notable speakers are Fr. Francis Gustilo, SDB, who is currently a member of the Vatican's International Theological Commission and Spiritual Director of Couples for Christ; Former Ambassador to the Holy See Henrietta de Villa, and Former Executive Director of World Youth Day Jo Grafil.

Their uplifting testimonials and inspirational talks will be interspersed with musical performances by the Las Pinas Boys Choir, Hail Mary the Queen Children's Choir, Holy Family Parish Youth Group of the Diocese of Pasig, the IL VOCE from the Ateneo High School, and special surprise performers. The occasion will also showcase a theme song for Blessed PJPII composed by the maestro, Mr. Ryan Cayabyab, with lyrics provided by Fr. Manoling Francisco SJ.

The occasion takes on a special meaning when the pope himself during his visit in 1981 declared in Araneta Coliseum that "this place will be called the colosseo of papal audiences." Blessed Pope John Paul II has undoubtedly had a great influence on the faith of Filipino Christians and I for one practically grew up during his pontificate. There is also a relic and photo exhibit from October 9 to 29, 2011, on the life and works of Blessed PJPII at the Gateway Mall Activity Area.

Admission to Blessed: A Call to Holiness is FREE! Tickets will be distributed to local parishes starting October 9. For inquiries, please contact your parish or the Diocese of Cubao at 723-5114 or 721-6225.

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