Feast of Saint Lorenzo Ruiz in Jerusalem

A week early, because of the Jewish holidays, the Filipino community gathered in large numbers to celebrate the first Filipino saint, martyr Lorenzo Ruiz. The main celebrant should have been Latin Patriarch Emeritus Michel Sabbah but because he was in hospital, Father David Neuhaus, Latin Patriarchal Vicar replaced him. A number of priests joined as concelebrants including Father James Oclarit, chaplain of the community, Father Andrew Wong, Rector of the Salesian community and Father Eric Wycoff, chaplain of the Saint Therese Filipino Community in Rehovot. There were also many Filipina sisters who came to the celebration.

The solemn mass was accompanied by beautiful singing. In his homily, Father David exhorted the faithful, in the spirit of the readings, to make the choice of the saints in following Jesus and leaving behind a world dominated by jealousy and rivalry. “Let us compete in being the last and serving all, just as Jesus did”.

After mass, the celebration was honored by the presence of the Filipino ambassador Neal Imperial and the program continued with cultural songs and dances from different segments of the community. As always, an abundance of delicious food added to the joyful atmosphere.