Cardinal on Ash Wednesday, Valentine's: No forever on earth

Cardinal Jose Advincula reminded Pinoy Catholics that there is "no forever on earth" as devotees flocked to their respective parish churches on February 14 to observe Ash Wednesday.

In a 24 Oras report by Maki Pulido, Cardinal Advincula, the Archbishop of Manila, stated that the mark of the cross on one’s forehead using ash is a reminder that “forever” cannot be found on Earth.

“Walang forever dito sa mundo. dahil wala rito sa lupa ang forever. parang abo ang mga bagay ng mundo. May forever ngunit nasaan? Ang forever ay ang biyayang galing sa langit at ito ang dahilan kaya hugis krus ang abo na ipapahid sa noo natin,” Cardinal Advincula said.

Ash Wednesday is the first day of Lent. On this day of reflection, Catholics wear a marking of the cross in ash on their foreheads. The ashes symbolize one’s mortality, with the Bible passage of “Remember you are dust, and to dust you shall return.”

Just before they celebrated Valentine’s Day and 21st wedding anniversary, couple Ruby and Wilfredo Riego dropped by the Baclaran Church to receive their ash crosses.

“Mas [priority] namin yang pagpapasalamat sa Panginoon kesa mag-date [o] kumain sa restaurant,” said Ruby.

“At the end of day, it’s about God’s ultimate sacrifice and love,” said Baclaran Church rector, Father Rico John Bilangel.

According to the Catholic Church, devotees are encouraged to adhere to the “3Ms” during the Lenten Season—Magdasal (Pray), Mag-ayuno (Fast), at Magkawanggawa (Charity).—Jiselle Anne Casucian/RF, GMA Integrated News