By Mr. Andrew Chanco
Photos courtesy of the Social Communication of the Diocese of Parañaque

       National Shrine of Mary Help of Christians, the Philippines, 24 May 2022 --The century-year-old and venerated image of Mary Help of Christians at the National Shrine and Parish at Paranaque City was granted the Pontifical Coronation through His Holiness Pope Francis on May 24, 2022, through a Decree issued by the Congregation for the Divine Worship and Discipline of the Sacraments last November 16, 2021, with Protocol Number 225/21.

       The Blessed Virgin Mary was crowned by His Eminence Jose Lazaro F. Cardinal Advincula, D.D., the Archbishop of Manila and Main Presider of the Eucharistic Celebration. The Crown of the Child Jesus was placed by Bishop Jesse E. Mercado, D.D. of the Diocese of Paranaque.

       The two Salesian Bishops present, Bishop Patricio A. Buzon, D.D., of the Diocese of Bacolod, placed the Scepter and Archbishop Emeritus Francesco Panfilo, D.D., of the Archdiocese of Rabaul, Papua New Guinea placed the 12 stars.

       Bishop Leo Drona, emeritus bishop of San Pablo, also concelebrated in the event. He was the first parish priest of said church.

       The image is the first to be given such an honor since the establishment of the Diocese of Parañaque in 2002.

       The historic event was witnessed by other invited bishops, priests, members of the Salesian Family, parishioners, and devotees of Mary Help of Christians. Indeed, it is Ex Devotione Ad Miracula, from devotion to miracles as Our Lady's Help touched many hearts.

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