All roads lead to the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu (BMSN) as the Pontifical Mass for the 458th Fiesta Señor was presided over by Archbishop of Cebu His Excellency Most Reverend Jose S. Palma, D.D. on January 15, 2023 at the Santo Niño Pilgrim Center.

Concelebrated by BMSN Rector Rev. Fr. Nelson G. Zerda, OSA, Augustian friars and brothers, members of the religious ministry, and pilgrims from all over the country and the world united to celebrate the feast day of the Holy Child.

Most Rev. Palma expressed his delight on the return of the physical activities of the Fiesta Señor after the restrictions due to the pandemic, all thanks to the blessing of Sñr. Sto. Niño.

“And in this journey of faith today this is made clear: Sñr. Sto. Niño is our companion… fountain of peace in our journey of faith. Mga kaigsuonan sa atong pagbalik tan-aw makaingon kita… kining panaw sa pagtuo dili sayon. Daghang panahon sa pagsulay. Tinuod, dunay panahon sa kalipay,” he said.

The Archbishop added that although devotees might experience setbacks in their walk of faith, they always turn to the Child Jesus because He is the source of peace and hope.

“Subo ang atong kinabuhi and yet padayon gud ta moingon, ‘Sñr. Sto. Niño, tuburan sa kalipay, paglaum sa pagsulay,’” he exclaimed.  /Lorille Antoinette C. Mata, BMSN Media Centre volunteer

His Excellency Most Reverend Jose S. Palma, D.D. danced after the mass the traditional religious Sinulog.