Filipino cardinal calls on faithful to “create a community that delivers hope” on Manila Day

The Archbishop of Manila urged the faithful to dedicate this Jubilee Year of Hope to building communities that deliver hope.

Presiding over the Holy Mass at Quiapo Basilica in Manila on June 24, the feast of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist, Cardinal Jose Advincula said, “A true community that delivers hope is not only composed of people busy with their self-interests, but those who listen to God’s call and are ready to serve.”

The feast coincided with the annual commemoration of Manila Day.

In his homily, the Cardinal emphasized that listening is always connected to humility, which he described as one of the most important aspects of community building.

“These days, arrogance, power-grabbing, and shows of strength are rampant,” he said, adding, “But in the community of God, the true leader knows how to be humble, cooperate, and connect.”

The Cardinal highlighted the example of Saint John the Baptist, who remained humble while preparing the way for the Lord.

Furthermore, Cardinal Advincula stressed that hope should not be associated only with glamor or drama, but also with silence and meditation.

“True hope is not always about having a strong personality. Most of the time, it is quiet yet genuine,” said the prelate.

Manila Day commemorates the founding of the Spanish settlement at the nation’s capital by Miguel López de Legazpion June 24, 1571.