The Feast of the Santo Niño, celebrated on January 19, 2025, emphasizes the importance of childhood, family, and faith in our lives. Fr. Jerry Orbos, SVD, reflects on the significance of children as gifts from God, the role of families in nurturing faith, and the call to return to God’s heart for healing and restoration.
On January 19, 2025, the Feast of the Santo Niño was celebrated with a heartfelt mass led by Reverend Father Jerry Orbos, SVD, at the Jubilee Church of the Dios and Shrine of Jesus the Divine Word. This occasion not only marked a significant religious event but also served as a reminder of the importance of childhood, family, and faith in our lives.
The mass commenced with a prayer to Jesus, the Divine Word, acknowledging His eternal presence and the significance of His incarnation. The congregation was invited to kneel and reflect on their relationship with God, emphasizing the need for love and service towards one another. The Jubilee prayer was recited, calling for a reawakening of hope and a transformation of hearts to cultivate the seeds of goodness in the world.
The Feast of the Santo Niño, also known as the Holy Childhood Day, is a time for prayer and reflection on the unity of Christians. Fr. Orbos welcomed all attendees, both in-person and via livestream, and highlighted the importance of recognizing every child as a gift from God. He urged families to embrace their roles in nurturing faith and love, reminding everyone that despite life's challenges, we are all children of God.
The readings for the day included passages from the Book of Isaiah, the Letter of St. Paul to the Ephesians, and the Gospel of Luke, which recounts the story of the young Jesus in the temple. Fr. Orbos reflected on these readings, emphasizing the joy and hope that children bring into our lives. He encouraged the congregation to remember their own childhoods and the lessons learned from their parents.
Fr. Orbos spoke about the significance of families in shaping the faith of children. He reminded parents of their responsibility to create a nurturing environment where children can grow in love and faith. He acknowledged the challenges faced by families today, particularly those from broken homes, and encouraged everyone to seek healing and restoration through God.
A central theme of Fr. Orbos's message was the call to return to the temple, symbolizing a return to God’s heart. He urged the congregation to seek peace and reconciliation in their relationships, emphasizing that healing begins with humility and a willingness to forgive. He shared personal anecdotes from his childhood, illustrating the impact of both positive and negative experiences on a child's development.
During the mass, special prayers were offered for children around the world, asking for their protection and guidance. Fr. Orbos highlighted the need for society to care for its children, urging leaders to respect and nurture the lives of the young. He called for a collective effort to ensure that every child grows up in a loving and supportive environment.
As the mass concluded, Fr. Orbos encouraged everyone to carry the spirit of the Santo Niño into their daily lives. He reminded the congregation that they are all beloved children of God, deserving of love and grace. The final blessing was a call to action, urging everyone to live out their faith with joy and compassion.
In celebrating the Feast of the Santo Niño, we are reminded of the profound impact that childhood experiences have on our lives and the importance of nurturing faith within our families. Let us embrace the call to be loving and supportive, ensuring that every child feels valued and cherished in the eyes of God.
