This Christmas season, the message of hope resonates strongly at St. John the Evangelist Cathedral in Dagupan City.

Jon Cleofas, a devout believer from Manila, made his annual pilgrimage to the cathedral to attend the night mass.

“Komstombre na natin ang pagpunta sa simbahan at ang pagsi-simbang gabi,” he said.

Fr. Eymard Ma. Mark Gayotin, MMHC, priest of St. John the Evangelist Cathedral, said this year’s theme is centered around hope.

“Pope Francis announced na hope ang ating message for this year, na kailangan natin ngayon ay pag-asa,” he said.

In the face of numerous challenges and calamities faced by Filipinos, Gayotin reminds the faithful to hold on to hope, believing that the Lord has never abandoned them.

The cathedral is all set to begin the Misa de Gallo on December 16, 2024.

“Excited na ang lahat sa Misa de Gallo,” he said.

Ensuring the safety of attendees, the Pangasinan Police has assigned officers to all churches participating in the nine-day Novena Mass.