Palo, Leyte – The Archdiocese of Palo celebrates walk for life today, March 18, 2023, held in the Palo Metropolitan Cathedral, anchored with the theme, “Clergy and Lay Faithful Called to Walk together for Life.” It was organized by the Council of the Laity – which places a higher value on each person’s dignity.
“Yana nga panahon, indeed, there is a strong power nga nagdadara hit katawhan against life.” A line shared by Rev. Msgr. Erlito Maraya, Parish Priest – Archdiocesan Shrine of Sto. Niño, Tacloban City during his talk before the mass started. Msgr. Maraya also gave the faithful some words of wisdom, saying that sharing life is what makes it so lovely. The more we give to our brothers and sisters, the more the Lord blesses us. We should always focus on the positive aspects despite of the diverse obstacles, no matter how difficult or dark our lives may be.
“In life, when there is hardship and problem, you’ll going to experience the mercy of God,” said Most Rev. John F. Du, D.D., Archbishop of Palo, in his homily.
Then, various members of the five Vicariates, including Abuyog, Burauen, Carigara, Palo, and Tacloban, took part in the recently concluded walk for life. The Vicariates of Ormoc and Palompon also participated in the Archdiocesan celebration simultaneously.
Archbishop Du also added: “It is His mercy that we can overcome many problems.” He advised the devoted to always be mindful of the numerous opportunities life presents. Moreover, he urged the crowd to participate in the ceremony supporting the gift of life.
45 priests concelebrated in the Eucharistic Celebration and more or less 1500 participants were in attendance. The Religious Sisters, Catholic Schools, and a few parishioners from Our Lord’s Transfiguration Parish were also present.
Before the gathering ended, Rev. Fr. Paulino Cabahit, the Council of the Laity’s Spiritual Director, expressed his gratitude to everyone who helped make this gathering as special as possible. And he thanked Dra. Edna Ayaso, Bro. Michael Rapada, and the team for their selfless work and generosity of time.
Due to the COVID pandemic’s suspension in 2021 and 2022, the recently concluded walk for life is the third in-person event. The Archdiocese of Palo’s history began with a walk for life in 2019, which was followed by events in 2020, and 2023.
“We pray for the family, we rise for hope, and we walk for life.”
– KARL PALACIO (Youth Minister, Palo Metropolitan Cathedral of Our Lord’s Transfiguration) –