Gov’t-Church ‘bonding’ in Cristo Rey celebration
LINGAYEN–Some 30,000 Catholics from four Vicariates of the Lingayen-Dagupan Archdiocese gathered at the Capitol grounds on November 21 for this year’s Christ the King festivity, the first time that the celebration was held in conjunction with the provincial government.
Archbishop Socrates Villegas stressed in his homily during the Mass that the event has brought together people of the same faith regardless of status in life — the ordinary people and those in power, but that “the real power” is in the power of love manifested by Christ as the King of hearts.
Meanwhile, Governor Amado Espino Jr., who welcomed the crowd, said in his opening speech prior to the celebration of the Holy Mass that the event is not just a “renewal of commitment to Christ the King” but also a “manifestation of stronger bond between the Church and government”.
Shortly after the Mass concelebrated by all priests of the Archdiocese, a solemn procession and recitation of Holy Rosary followed.
Despite heavy downpour, a 15-minute fireworks display was held at the Lingayen beachfront simultaneous with a thanksgiving fellowship at the Sison Auditorium.
The governor thanked the entire clergy of the archdiocese for giving the provincial government the opportunity to host the event, adding that holding the celebration at the Provincial Capitol, which is the seat of power and authority, was made possible by a “divine design” to remind everyone that all human power and authority are subject to and fall under the supreme power and authority of God.
Espino also noted that apart from the development thrusts that the provincial government has been implementing, Christian values in the workplace has also been introduced.
Apart from the traditional first Friday mass at the Urduja House, the provincial government in collaboration with the local parish conducted the traditional Simbang Gabi, nine-day novena in anticipation of Christ’s birth, last year at the Capitol Grounds. This year, the anticipated Simbang Gabi will again be held in the same venue starting December 15.
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