STO. NIÑO 2025: A Celebration of Faith Under Gray Skies

Devotion and festivity filled the entire Shrine of the Holy Infant Jesus of Prague, Shrine Hills Matina as they celebrated its 57th Patronal Fiesta last January 15, 2025. Despite the cold and rainy weather, devotees came to pray and offer their thanksgiving for the graces that they obtained through the Sto. Niño.

The Pontifical Mass was presided over by Most. Rev. Romulo G. Valles D.D. at 9:00am. Many devotees and lay faithful attended the Holy Mass. The Archbishop said that the feast of Sr. Sto. Niño is a Christmas Feast outside the Christmas season since it pays homage to the Child Jesus.

Abp. Valles highlighted in his homily three points of reflection. First, he expressed his joy in seeing families coming together to attend the Holy Mass, honoring the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. He emphasized the exemplary role of Joseph and Mary as parents, urging families to pray for the grace to embody their qualities—fostering love, faith, and unity within each member of the family.

Second, he shared that Jesus was born in Bethlehem, the City of bread and at the same time in a manger wherein the food of animals were placed. It symbolizes how in the very beginning; Christ is the Bread of Life and true devotion to the Sto. Niño is found in receiving the Body of Christ in the Holy Eucharist.

Third, he mentioned how Christ even though He was still a child, He is the King and the High Priest who will save us from our sins through his death on the cross.

Abp. Valles shared his joy in this festive celebration saying that the devotion and gift of Sr. Sto. Niño is a way of recognizing God’s great and undying love towards all of us.

Viva Senyor Sto. Niño. Viva Pit Señor!

(By Allyza Hope J. Tabigue)