By Social Communications Ministry

Published on July 30, 2025

ANTIPOLO CITY — In a timely pastoral letter released yesterday, Antipolo Bishop Ruperto C. Santos reminded the faithful of the deeper meaning of Marian devotion, especially amid tensions in the parish of Tanay. Far from being a mere reminder, the message serves as a pastoral invitation: to reexamine not only our practices, but the very heart of our faith.

“Today, I speak to you not only as your bishop, but as a fellow pilgrim,” wrote Bishop Santos, opening a letter that calls for reflection, humility, and unity. The pastoral letter comes amid reported disagreements over Marian images and devotions in Tanay, prompting the bishop to guide the faithful back to the essential purpose of any devotion: union with Christ.

More Than Ritual: Three Core Reminders

1. “We Offer, She Receives”
Bishop Santos emphasized that acts of devotion—flowers, candles, prayers—are not empty rituals but sincere offerings of love. When we kneel before Mary’s image, he said, we are not worshipping stone or paint, but honoring the Mother of the Savior who lovingly presents our prayers to Jesus.

2. Images Are Invitations, Not Trophies
Comparing Marian images to cherished photos of loved ones, Bishop Santos reminded the faithful that such images are not meant to be debated, claimed, or fought over—but to stir memory, faith, and imitation.

3. Her Joy Is to Lead Us to Jesus
Above all, the bishop underscored that Mary’s mission is to point the faithful to Christ. From Nazareth to Calvary, her life was defined by obedience to God’s will.
If devotion leads to jealousy or strife, it is no longer true devotion, he cautioned: “A mother rejoices not in the quarrels of her children, but in their peace.”
He urged Catholics to reject factionalism in Mary’s name and to live out a devotion that brings peace, not pride.

As tensions arise over religious expression, the bishop’s letter reminds the faithful that the fruit of real devotion is not debate, but transformation. In his words: “Let our devotion be more than tradition—it must become a way of life: with gentler speech, humbler hearts, and faithful service.”

Bishop Santos concluded with a prayer for the Diocese of Antipolo: “Mary, our Mother and Queen, guide our Diocese in peace and unity.”