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Filipino prayer heard in Vatican as Pope Leo leads Palm Sunday Mass
VATICAN CITY - A prayer in the Filipino language was heard in the Vatican on Palm Sunday during a Mass officiated by Pope Leo XIV at St. Peter's Square.
The meaningful moment heard during the Prayers of the Faithful was an experience that moved many Filipinos in attendance, some to the point of tears.
In the prayer, the faithful remembered those enduring suffering and oppression, affirming Christ’s solidarity with them.
“Para sa lahat ng nagdaranas ng paghihirap at karalitaan, kaisa sa pagdurusa si Kristo na nakapako sa Krus: nawa'y maramdaman nila ang presensiya at kagaanan ng loob ng Diyos Ama sa pamamagitan ng tulong ng lahat," the prayer read.
(For all those undergoing difficulty and hardship who are one with the suffering of Christ who was crucified on the cross, may they feel the presence and comfort of God through the help of others.)
Among the attendees was Dan Roldan, an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) based in Italy. He shared that he arrived early at the Vatican to attend Mass and have his olive branch blessed. In Italy, olive branches are used instead of palm leaves for Palm Sunday, as olive trees are more common in the country. The olive branch also symbolizes peace—reflecting the spirit of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem.
For Roldan, hearing Filipino during the Prayer of the Faithful was a rare and meaningful experience.
“May my faith and trust in God grow even stronger,” Roldan said.
Pope Leo XIV presided over the Palm Sunday Mass at St. Peter’s Square, delivering a powerful message highlighting Jesus as the King of Peace who rejects violence and refuses to heed the prayers of those who promote war and suffering.
“This is our God: Jesus, King of Peace who rejects war, whom no one can use to justify war,” Pope Leo said.
At the conclusion of the Mass, the Holy Father greeted the faithful as he rode the popemobile, bringing joy to thousands gathered at St. Peter’s Square.
Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week, a sacred time for Christians around the world as they reflect on the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. —KG, GMA Integrated News
