The Diocesan Shrine of Our Lady of the Abandoned in Muntinlupa City has been granted by the Vatican with a special bond of spiritual affinity with the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, Italy.
The recognition grants pilgrims to the church the same spiritual benefits as if they have actually visited the Papal Basilica.
Diocesan shrine rector and parish priest Fr. Jonathan Cadiz said, the grant, as well as the coming canonical coronation of the revered image of the Nuestra Señora delos Desamparados (Our Lady of the Abandoned), is a recognition of the deep faith and devotion of the faithful to the Blessed Virgin Mary.
“We are grateful and glad for this huge blessing that has been given to our parish, the canonical coronation, and the special bond of spiritual affinity. These recognize our devotion to the Our Lady of the Abandoned,” Fr. Cadiz said over Radio Veritas.
The diocesan shrine received the granting of the special bond of spiritual affinity from the Apostolic Penitentiary of the Vatican on Aug. 23.
The priest invited the faithful, especially the more than 70,000 Roman Catholics in his parish, to take the opportunity to visit the church, to receive God’s blessings and to strengthen their faith in the Blessed Mother.
Pilgrims to the church may gain a plenary indulgence after receiving the sacrament of confession, receiving Holy Communion, and praying for the intentions of the Holy Father.
“It is part of the mission of our parish and the devotees of the Our Lady of the Abandoned to help deepen the faith of the people as well as to inspire more to strengthen their spiritual life and be closer to God,” Fr. Cadiz said.
The canonical coronation of the Nuestra Señora delos Desamparados and the official declaration of the special bond of spiritual affinity will be held on May 12, 2023 to coincide with the 160th parish fiesta.