ILOILO City – Religious activities for the February 2 annual feast of Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria (Our Lady of Candles), the patroness of Jaro district, are all set.
Devotees visiting the Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral for prayer and candle-lighting are being reminded to do so in a solemn and reflective manner.
According to Reverend Father Angelo Colada, director of the Archdiocese of Jaro’s Social Communication Office, this year’s theme, “Jubilee of Hope”, emphasizes the importance of holding on to hope despite life’s difficulties, as Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria symbolizes the bearer of light.
Devotees are also reminded to observe the dress code when attending mass. While the church encourages modest attire, it acknowledges that not all devotees can afford formal clothing.
“We encourage everyone to follow proper dress protocols when attending mass. However, we will not strictly enforce these rules, as we understand the different circumstances of our devotees, especially the poorest of the poor. It is up to individuals to decide what is appropriate,” Colada said.
A signage at the cathedral entrance lists the recommended proper attire for liturgical celebrations.
For Women
* collared blouse or shirt
* long sleeves
* skirts below the knee
* unfitted jeans or slacks
* dress below the knee
For Men
* t-shirt or polo shirt
* long sleeves
* pants or slacks
Fiesta religious activities
Novena masses began on January 24 and will continue until February 1. These masses are held daily at 5:30 p.m.
A reenactment of the papal coronation of Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria will follow the February 1 mass. The event will take place at the balcony of the cathedral and will be led by Most Rev. Jose Romeo O. Lazo, Archbishop of Jaro.
On February 2, feast day celebrations will commence with masses at the cathedral’s main altar starting at 4 a.m. and continuing until 8 p.m.
The Solemn Pontifical Mass at 8 a.m. will be presided over by Most Rev. Midyphil B. Billones, D.D., Auxiliary Bishop of Cebu.
Additional masses will be held at the Pope John Paul II Gym beside the cathedral from 4:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
A grand religious procession is scheduled at 3 p.m., where various religious groups, organizations, and schools will participate in a parade around Jaro Plaza.
Another mass at the main altar will follow at 5:30 p.m.
Colada assured that security measures are in place for the two-day festivities. The church has coordinated with the Philippine National Police (PNP) for security implementation and with the Iloilo City Traffic Management Unit (ITCMU) to ensure smooth traffic flow around the cathedral.
“Everything is set. We have coordinated with the PNP for security measures and with traffic authorities to ensure the smooth flow of vehicles during the parade,” Colada told Panay News.
Meanwhile, perdon candles are now available for purchase at Libreria Candelaria of the cathedral, and affiliated retailers. The candles are sold at P35 per piece, while bulk orders are available at P4,620 per box containing 140 pieces (28 packs).
Colada clarified that the candles sold at the cathedral have already been blessed, but devotees who wish to ensure their candles receive blessings may attend the Solemn Pontifical Mass at 8 a.m. on February 2, during which a special candle blessing will take place.
The feast of Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria is one of the most significant religious celebrations in Iloilo, drawing thousands of devotees annually./PN
