Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma has approved the episcopal coronation of the oldest venerated image of St. Joseph in the Philippines.
The National Shrine of St. Joseph in Mandaue City, where the 17th century image is enshrined, announced the news Monday, July 12
It said the crowning is “a manifestation and thanksgiving for all the wonders that our Spiritual Father, the Patrocinio de San Jose de Mandaue has interceded for us throughout the years."
CBCP News said the event will be held on August 8, during a Mass to be led by Archbishop Palma and Auxiliary Bishop Midyphil Billones, the shrine’s rector
The episcopal coronation will be held as the Church marks the Year of St. Joseph and the 500 Years of Christianity in the Philippines.
Pope Francis last year announced a Year of St. Joseph in honor of the 150th anniversary of the saint’s proclamation as patron of the Universal Church.
The year began last Dec. 8 and will conclude on Dec. 8, 2021, according to a decree authorized by the Pope.
The Pope had also granted special indulgences to mark the year.