A CATHOLIC diocese in the central Philippines has started its 300-day countdown to the quincentennial celebration of the “First Easter Mass” in the Philippines.
The celebration was highlighted with a Mass at the Maasin cathedral presided over by Bishop Precioso Cantillas of Maasin on Thursday, June 4.
The launch also paid tribute to COVID-19 front-liners and prayed for the healing of communities affected by the pandemic.
“We want to be healed as one, but first we need to pray as one, and the highest expression with our union with God is our union with Him through the Eucharist,” said Bishop Cantillas.
The prelate also emphasized that people should be “one in prayer” so that the healing starts.
The event also launched the celebration’s theme song and unveiled a countdown billboard.
Father Johnrey Sibi, chairman of the commission for the celebration of the 500 years of the “First Mass” in Limasawa, said special events will also mark the 200 days and 100 days leading up to the grand celebration on March 31, 2021.
Limasawa is an island at the tip of Southern Leyte province where the first Easter Mass was believed held in 1521 when Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan and his men landed.
