Devotees of Saint Peregrine, the miraculous patron saint of individuals suffering from serious health problems such as cancer and AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome), observed on May 1 the feast of the revered saint.
Feast masses in his honor were held at the St. Peregrine Laziosi Parish and Diocesan Shrine in Tunasan, Muntinlupa City which coincided with the 8th year anniversary of the declaration and elevation of the parish into a diocesan shrine by Bishop Jesse Mercado.
Many pilgrims and devotees from different parts of the country traditionally travel all the way to the shrine to pray before his sacred relic, the rib of his uncorrupted body, which came all the way from his hometown in Forli, Italy.
Born in the year 1260, the popular Italian saint came to be known as a “Wonder Worker,” after he got cured of cancer upon receiving a vision of Christ on the cross reaching out His hand to touch his impaired limb. He joined the Servite Order and was greatly admired for his preaching and counseling. He died on May 1, 1345 and was canonized in Dec. 27, 1726. His feast day marked his 675th death anniversary.
His major shrine is the Basilica of St. Peregrine in Forli, Italy.