THE Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) joined the faithful in celebrating the lives of saints, including St. Lorenzo Ruiz, the first Filipino saint and patron saint of overseas Filipino workers and migrants.
The Asian Catholic Initiative said Ruiz, of Chinese-Filipino parentage, became the Philippines’ protomartyr after his execution by the Tokugawa Shogunate during its persecution of Japanese Christians in the 17th century.
St. Pedro Calungsod, a young catechist from Visayas, is the second Filipino saint. He joined Spanish Jesuit missionaries in Guam to catechize the native Chamorros. He was killed when someone spread a rumor that the baptismal water used by missionaries was poisonous.
“On this All Saints’ Day, the Commission on Filipinos Overseas joins the faithful in celebrating the lives of saints whose faith, courage, and devotion continue to inspire people across generations,” the CFO said on Sunday.
“Their examples remind us of the enduring values of compassion, perseverance, and service that guide us in our daily lives,” it added.
Senate leaders urged Filipinos to draw inspiration from the saints, strengthen their faith, and cherish the memories of departed loved ones as the country observes All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.
Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian called on Filipinos to remain steadfast in doing what is right.
“May the saints serve as our inspiration to have strong faith and the conviction to do what is right,” Gatchalian said in his message on Sunday.
Marking All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day on Nov. 2 is a longstanding Filipino tradition when families gather in cemeteries to offer prayers, flowers and candles in remembrance of their departed loved ones.
Sen. Francis Escudero said it was an opportunity to honor the memories of loved ones whose influence and lessons continue to shape the lives of those they left behind.
“Through our prayers and the light of every candle we light, the memories of our loved ones who helped shape who we are remain alive,” Escudero said.
He added that the observance reminds Filipinos that relationships do not end with death but continue to live in the hearts and memories of those left behind.
Sen. JV Ejercito also urged Filipinos to look to the saints for guidance in choosing the right path in life and to offer sincere prayers for their departed loved ones.
Sen. Panfilo Lacson said the teachings and examples of the saints should inspire Filipinos to live with love and concern for others.
Sen. Camille Villar honored the saints for their faith, devotion and selfless service, saying their legacy should encourage people to practice kindness and compassion.
Sen. Bam Aquino said the love, lessons and happy memories left by those who had passed away continued to provide strength and hope to grieving families.
