Due to the fervent devotion of the faithful a Triduum which is a shortened novena and is a three-day preparation of solemn prayer and homage for the upcoming celebration of the latest recognition of the Marian image of Nuestra Senora de Aranzazu by the Pope through a canonical coronation started this May 26, 2017 at the Diocesan Parish.
The first part of the three-day homage was dedicated to the local government sector and as part of the triduum the image of Aranzazu was brought to the Municipal hall at 3:00pm. Vice Mayor Paeng Diaz delivered then his brief opening remarks and led the opening prayer followed by the Rosario Cantada, songs of praises and earnest prayer devoted for the Marian image. Before the return of the image to the parish, Mayor Tina Diaz then led the closing prayer by 5:40pm for the triduum mass that began at 6:00pm.
The mass presided by Fr. Larry Paz focused on the message of serving others particularly the observance of “alay-kapwa” and throwing the virtue of selfishness for the common good. He later mentioned that being a genuine citizen doesn’t always blame the people with power to serve mainly the government officials since everyone has a responsibility to serve one another with or without any position in the government. Before the mass ended the government officials and employees offered white roses together with their prayers and petitions to the Our Lady of Aranzazu. They were also then blessed by Fr. Larry to be able to serve the citizens in full honesty and integrity in accordance to the law of man and the divine law.
The second day will then be dedicated to the business sector for the progress and development of San Mateo. The employees and head of the business establishments are invited to offer flowers with their prayers and petitions at the mass and triduum rites still at 6:00pm.
The last part of the triduum is committed to the devoted lays and servers of the Our Lady of Aranzazu. All of the diocesan organizations, groups and MSK are invited to attend the mass and triduum rites and also offer flowers with their prayers and petitions at 6:00pm on the 28th of May.
In just a few days the parish will continue to be a center for more Marian devotion and pilgrimages. It is but fitting that the people of San Mateo, the great beneficiaries of all the maternal care and intercession of the Marian Image of Nuestra Senora de Aranzazu for 300 years, observe the Triduum in preparation and thanksgiving for the coming Canonical Coronation which is a once in a lifetime event. Viva la Virgen! (Mariele Aquino)
