Cardinal Rosales to preside at commemorative Mass for St. Josemaria Escriva

MANILA Archbishop Gaudencio B. Cardinal Rosales will preside at a Mass, slated June 26 at 6 p.m. at the Manila Metropolitan Cathedral-Basilica (MMCB), in commemoration of the death in 1975 of St. Josemaria Escriva, the founder of the Opus Dei.

Josemaria Escriva was proclaimed saint in 1992 by Pope John Paul II, who, at a thronged canonization rite, called on the faithful to follow in the new saint’s footsteps and spread in society the awareness that “we are called to holiness, without distinction of race, class, culture or age.”

A highly felt presence in the Philippines, Opus Dei is a worldwide Catholic institution whose avowed mission is to help people turn their work and daily activities into occasions for growing closer to God, for serving others, and for improving society.

It complements churches by offering classes, talks, retreats, and pastoral care that help people develop their personal spiritual life and apostolate.

Born on January 9, 1902, Josemaria Escriva had obtained a degree in law before entering the seminary. He was ordained priest on March 28, 1925.