CEBU CITY: Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma has called upon Cebuanos to enter the New Year with steadfast faith and hope, inspired by the journey of the ‘Three Wise Men.’ In a New Year’s message delivered in Cebuano and released via video on New Year’s Eve, Archbishop Palma reflected on the courage and determination displayed by the wise men in their pursuit of the promised King.

According to Philippines News Agency, Palma addressed the province’s 4.5 million baptized Catholics, urging them to emulate the wise men’s confidence and reliance on divine guidance amidst life’s challenges. “May we never forget that we have a God who always accompanies and guides us on our journey,” Palma stated, emphasizing the importance of divine accompaniment.

The archbishop, 74, also touched upon the perseverance of St. Paul, reminding Cebuanos to remain resolute in the face of life’s trials. “After the hardships that tested our faith, may we gain wisdom from these experiences, illuminated by the light of faith, and enter the new year with greater maturity and hope,” he said. Archbishop Palma highlighted that St. Paul’s reward was for those who persevered without faltering, encouraging Cebuanos to follow suit.

As 2025 commences, Archbishop Palma encouraged Catholics in Cebu to let faith and hope be their guiding forces, drawing lessons from past experiences to navigate new challenges with resilience. The message underscores a spiritual approach to embracing the New Year, fostering a community grounded in faith-inspired optimism.