Marcos on Easter Sunday: Emulate Christ, share blessings to the needy

FILE: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. leads the personnel of the Office of the President (OP) in the flag-raising ceremony in Malacañang on Monday (March 18, 2024). (Presidential Communications Office photo)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reminded the Catholic faithful to emulate Christ and share their blessings to those in need and remain united in praying for the collective pursuit of building a “Bagong Pilipinas” that everyone deserves.

In his Easter Sunday message, Marcos said the “auspicious occasion” is a reminder that, “while faith, devotion, and sacrifice are, by themselves, worthy ideals to aspire for, they also yield great rewards both here on earth and the hereafter.”

Marcos added the Catholic faithful should emulate Jesus Christ by always remembering the needs of others, especially those who have less in life, the sick and the downtrodden.

“Let us draw inspiration from this important narrative as we overcome our personal and spiritual challenges. May this day also excite our hearts to live a Christ-like life, especially in sharing our blessings in whatever form to the poor, the sick and the downtrodden,” Marcos said.

“Finally, let us unite in praying for the continued guidance of God Almighty in our collective pursuit to build the Bagong Pilipinas that we are destined to achieve. I wish everyone a happy and blessed Easter Sunday,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said the entire agency is one with the Christian community in celebrating the resurrection of the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ.

“May this blessed day remind us that even in the most difficult of situations, there is always a light at the end of the tunnel, a chance to move forward, and an opportunity to overcome the challenges that come our way, ” he added.

Galvez also said the resurrection of Jesus Christ, does not only symbolize his victory over sin.

“It is a reminder that despite the shortcomings we have committed, there is still hope of redemption as long as we repent and seek God’s forgiveness. May the Lord’s resurrection renew our spirits, and inspire us to become instruments of peace, compassion and understanding,” he added.

Catholic faithful across the country and around the world celebrates Easter Sunday, or the resurrection of Jesus Christ three days after his death by crucifixion to redeem humanity from sin. It also marks the end of the annual Holy Week or Semana Santa.

 (with a report from Priam F. Nepomuceno/PNA)