On the late afternoon of March 27, 2026, the faithful of St. Peregrine Laziosi Parish and Diocesan Shrine gathered in prayer and solemn reflection for the observance of the Via Matris on Viernes de Dolores, which began at 4:00 PM. United as one community, parishioners journeyed both spiritually and physically with the Blessed Virgin Mary, commemorating the sorrows she endured in unwavering obedience to God’s will.

The devotion was prayerfully led by our Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Bryan Ma. Eala, OSM, who guided the faithful through the meditation of the Seven Sorrows of Mary. Each station invited deep reflection, drawing hearts closer to Our Lady – the sorrowful yet faithful Mother who remained steadfast as she accompanied her Son on the path toward the Cross.

Following the Via Matris, the faithful took part in a solemn penitential procession along the national road, offering prayers and reflections as an open expression of their shared faith. This sacred act served as a powerful reminder that faith is not meant to remain within the walls of the church alone, but is lived and proclaimed through prayer, sacrifice, and visible witness.

The gathering concluded with the celebration of the Holy Mass, presided over by The Very Rev. Fr. Paul Martin Ma. Gapuz, OSM. In his deeply reflective homily, Fr. Paul invited the congregation to contemplate the profound role of Mary in the mystery of salvation, particularly as the Church draws nearer to Holy Week. He emphasized that, “As we move closer to Holy Week, we meditate on a very important event in the life of Our Lady – she who stood at the foot of the Cross.”

Fr. Paul further reflected on the mystery of Christ’s sacrifice, explaining that while by virtue of Jesus’ divinity, justice could have already been satisfied by the least of His actions, God chose a greater expression of love. In the order of love, and to reveal that love fully to humanity, reparation was decreed to consist primarily in sacrifice. This sacrifice most painfully witnessed by Mary – stands as the fullest expression of divine love.

The Via Matris on Viernes de Dolores became not only a commemoration of Our Lady’s sorrows but also an invitation for the faithful to deepen their understanding of suffering, love, and redemptive sacrifice. Through Mary’s steadfast presence at the foot of the Cross, the community was reminded to remain faithful, trusting, and hopeful even amid trials.

As the parish continues its journey toward Holy Week, this meaningful devotion echoes in the hearts of the faithful – calling all to walk with Mary, to stand firm in faith, and to embrace the transforming power of Christ’s sacrificial love.

~ Jenn Munar