Parañaque City (Philippines). On 5 July 2025, 330 participants from all over the Philippines gathered at the National Shrine of Mary Help of Christians (NSMHC) in Better Living Subdivision, Parañaque City, for the 2nd National Convention in Propagating the Devotion to Mary Help of Christians, carrying the theme “Shine Forth: Devotion, Propagation, and Mission.”
This significant gathering brought together representatives from Marian communities, shrines, parishes, and youth groups united by one mission: to deepen and spread devotion to Mary Help of Christians — the guiding light and motherly intercessor in the lives of countless faithful.
The convention featured three insightful and inspiring talks that anchored the day’s formation and reflection:
- “ Mary Our Mother and Hope”: Fr. Rigenald Malecdem opened the convention with a deeply theological and pastoral insight into Mary’s enduring role as Mother and beacon of hope, especially in times of trial and uncertainty. His message reminded all that in Mary, the Church finds both comfort and courage.
- “ The Shrine of Mary as an Oasis of Hope for Pilgrims”: Bro. Kendrick Panganiban focused on the unique spiritual refuge offered by Marian shrines. His talk emphasized how the National Shrine, and others like it, serve as sacred spaces of encounter, consolation, and renewed faith.
- “History of the Devotion to Mary Help of Christians in the Philippines”: Bro. Andrew Chanco traced the rich and vibrant legacy of Marian devotion in the country, especially under the Salesian tradition. He highlighted milestones, Marian movements, and how this devotion has evolved into a national spiritual force.
One of the most heartwarming moments of the day was the “Heart-to-Heart Talk: Panel Sharing on the Devotion to Mary Help of Christians” in wich a group of lay faithful, youth, and religious took the stage to share their personal and often emotional testimonies about how Mary Help of Christians has touched, transformed, and guided their lives.
The audience was invited to actively participate through guided questions, small group reflections, and open sharing, creating a truly communal and grace-filled atmosphere. Tears, laughter, and moments of silence marked this powerful session, as experiences of healing, protection, and vocational guidance through Mary were brought to light.
Among the many participants, the ADMA Maria Ausiliatrice Chapter of Don Bosco Sta. Mesa was present with two lay collaborators, along with three young delegates from the Blessed Laura Vicuña group of the Provincial House in Sta. Mesa, Manila, and students from Mary Help of Christians College Senior High School, accompanied by Sr. Veny Casala FMA The presence of Sr. Mary Jude Alcance, FMA, National FMA Delegate of the Province, brought both spiritual guidance and a sense of strong unity with the wider Salesian Marian family.
The convention concluded with a collective commitment to become modern-day missionaries of Mary to “Shine Forth” with her light in our homes, parishes, schools, and communities..
With renewed hearts and a deepened sense of mission, participants left the shrine ready to carry Mary Help of Christians into the world — as a mother, as a guide, and as a sign of hope in our times.
