By Leslie Ann Aquino
The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) - Episcopal Commission on Family and Life (ECFL) has endorsed the "March for Mary and the Filipino Family" of Pro-Life Philippines to be held in Manila this Sunday, December 8.
Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (MANILA BULLETIN)
CBCP-ECFL Chairman Archbishop Gilbert Garcera expressed hope that the said activity will inspire Filipinos to give importance and protect life and family.
"It is my prayer that the March for Mary and the Filipino family be a strong message that life and family is (sic) sacred and worth protecting for," read his endorsement letter.
In a statement, Pro Life said the march is intended to celebrate the life of Mama Mary as an inspiration for Filipino families.
"It is likewise an expression of our collective desire to honor the sanctity of the family as it faces political, economic, cultural and moral challenges," Pro-Life President Rita Dayrit said.
"We wish to further manifest that the Filipino family is the foundation and likewise the channel of blessing and prosperity for the entire nation," she added.
The march will start at the Malate Church at 6 AM and will proceed to the Manila Cathedral in Intramuros for the celebration of the Holy Mass at 8:30 am to be presided by His Eminence Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle.
Prolife Philippines Foundation said they intend to promote the "March for Mary and the Filipino Family" as an annual activity during the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.
"We are hoping that it will catch fire later on and replicated in all dioceses in the country," said Dayrit.
The Feast of the Immaculate Conception is being observed every December 8.