Novaliches Bishop Emeritus Antonio Tobias will preside over the canonical fiesta mass on Saturday, Dec.10, at 4 p.m. at the Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Loreto in Sampaloc, Manila, in solemn commemoration of the feast day of Our Mother of Loreto (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.
A solemn procession will be held at 5:30 p.m.
On Sunday, Dec. 11, Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula will preside over a high mass at 6 p.m. to mark the Sampaloc town fiesta.
This year’s feast of Our Lady of Loreto coincides with the 409th parish fiesta.
Novena masses were held from Dec. 1 to 9. The praying of the holy rosary preceded all novena masses.
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 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 signage of Our Lady of Loreto for protection against air disasters whenever he traveled during his pontificate.