San Jose, Nueva Ecija Bishop Roberto Mallari has called on the faithful “to welcome Jesus in your hearts in order to remain hopeful and inspired to face difficulties and challenges this 2024.”

“Our Lord became man for our salvation. May this inspire us and ignite the fire in us to give our best effort in everything that we do particularly in showing our love for God, our country, for our families and for others,” Bishop Mallari said over Radio Veritas.

The Church leader’s message was made as devotees prepare for the feast of the traslacion of the revered Black Nazarene on Jan. 9.

Bishop Mallari likewise encouraged agricultural workers particularly the farmers in his province to just continue to work and to trust in God’s provisions despite not having a very good year in 2023.

“Having a strong faith in God and welcoming Jesus in our hearts will help us get through even the most difficult circumstances,” the prelate said.

Meanwhile, the blessing of the replicas of the Poong Hesus Nazareno will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 3. 

The fourth novena mass will also be celebrated at 6 p.m. at the Quiapo Church on Jan. 3. The novena masses that began on Dec. 31 will be celebrated until Jan. 8.

The traditional “Pahalik “ will be held at the Quirino Grandstand from Jan. 6 to 8.

On the feast of the traslacion on Jan. 9, the grand procession will be preceded by a holy mass to be presided over by Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula at the Quirino Grandstand at midnight.

Thirty three holy masses are set to be held at the Quiapo Church on Jan. 9.