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HOPE BORN IN FAITH: CARDINAL ADVINCULA’S REFLECTIONS ON THE CLOSING OF THE JUBILEE YEAR

Jan. 02, 2026 07:17 PM

Manila, Philippines – December 26, 2025
The Archdiocese of Manila concluded the Jubilee Year 2025 with a Solemn Rite celebrated on the Feast of Saint Stephen, the First Martyr, at the Manila Cathedral. His Eminence Jose F. Cardinal Advincula invited the faithful to give thanks for the graces and spiritual fruits received throughout the Jubilee Year.

In a time marked by disasters, economic hardship, and corruption, many Filipinos quietly ask if there is still hope for the nation. Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula answers with conviction: yes, there is hope—but it does not come from human promises or political power. True hope comes from God alone.

This is the same hope born in the humility of the manger, reminding us that even in darkness and uncertainty, God’s light can still break through. Hope does not deny suffering; it finds God present within it.

Cardinal Advincula challenges the faithful not only to be pilgrims of hope but to become hope. Faith must go beyond rituals and celebrations, taking shape in honesty, compassion, integrity, and solidarity. In a wounded nation, even small acts of goodness allow the grace of the Jubilee to continue—turning hope into a lived reality.

The ceremony was marked by the tolling of the Bell of Hope, which signaled the start of the “Camino ng Pag-asa” procession. Pilgrims journeyed from Villa Immaculada to the Manila Cathedral, symbolizing the Church’s shared pilgrimage of faith and hope.

In keeping with the Jubilee’s spirit of solidarity, Persons in Street Dwelling Situations were present and took part in the Eucharistic celebration, highlighting the Archdiocese’s commitment to a Church where the poor are valued as co-workers in mission.

Earlier in the day, Jubilee sector representatives led the Camino ng Pag-asa pilgrimage. During the Mass, representatives of designated Jubilee Churches were recognized and conferred citations in appreciation of their contributions and faithful service throughout the Jubilee Year.

In recognition of its active participation as a Church Cluster contributor to the Jubilee Year, the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno received a Plaque of Appreciation.  Rev. Fr. Jonathan Noel Mojica accepted the plaque with deep gratitude, acknowledging the collective efforts of the shrine community.

As the Church looks ahead to the Jubilee of Redemption in 2033, we are invited to continue the journey—not merely as observers of hope, but as its witnesses. In the end, hope is not just an idea or a feeling. It is a decision to live differently, anchored in faith, and to remain steadfast even in the midst of darkness.

Ara Cubinar | Social Communications
Photos Courtesy of by Joseph Kyler Bernardo/RCAM Media