Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes, Cebu, The Philippines, 9 September 2024 -- The youth groups and the music ministry of this parish held a Mañanita, or early morning serenade, in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary's birthday. Attended by many parishioners and groups, everyone woke up at 5:00 AM for the procession of the image of the Virgin around the parish. It was followed by the rendering of Marian songs performed by the different choirs serving the Sunday masses of this Shrine. Groups of educators, catechists, workers, and youth offered their bouquets to Mary.
The morning affair was concluded with the celebration of the 6:30 AM mass presided by Fr. Eligio "Gio" Santos, SDB accompanied by the Salesian priests of the local community. During the mass, the people sang a happy birthday song for the Blessed Mother and presented to her a big birthday cake. The Shrine continues its mission of spreading devotion to our Blessed Mother whom St. John Bosco considered as the foundress of the Salesian Family.