Today is Feast of Our Lady of Loreto

Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo will celebrate a high mass at 6 p.m. today, December 10, at the Our Lady of Loreto Parish in Sampaloc, Manila, in solemn commemoration of the Feast of Our Lady of Loreto, a Marian title that refers to the Holy House of Loreto (Santa Casa di Loreto) in Loreto, Italy, where the Blessed Virgin Mary was born and where the Annunciation was believed to have taken place.

The title also refers to an ancient statue of Our Lady that was found inside the house.

The Eucharistic celebration will be streamed live. Inside the church, a little more than 100 persons will be allowed to observe physical distancing.

Novena masses were held from December1 to 9.

In Sampaloc, Manila, Our Lady of Loreto is venerated as the patron saint and protector against fires and the guardian of households.

The Holy House of Loreto is considered as the first shrine dedicated to the Blessed Mother. It has been visited by Marian devotees, pilgrims, and tourists for centuries. The house is under the direct authority and protection of the Holy Father.

Saint John Paul II had always carried with him a signage of Our Lady of Loreto for protection against air disasters whenever he travelled during his pontificate.