Asian Journal- The Filipino-American Community Newspaper

Thousands of Kapampangans will gather on Saturday, September 12, 2009 at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels in Los Angeles, California to celebrate the 53rd Canonical Coronation Anniversary of the Virgen de los Remedios.  The devotion to the Virgen de los Remedios was initiated by Pampanga’s first Bishop Cesar Maria Guerrero, D.D. to save the province (which also used to host the biggest US military facility in Asia, northwest of Manila 1903-1991) from a breeding ground of socialism, where at that time peasants and workers were revolting against landowners and wealthy hacienderos, as well as the widening gap between rich and poor.

He entrusted his diocese to the Nuestra Senora de los Remedios and started a Crusade of Charity and Goodwill. Her image was taken to every village, barrio and town.  Daily processions were held and Masses were attended by the faithful.  Rosaries were recited all day and all night. Prominent ladies of buena famille, otherwise known as Damas de Caridad were designated to collect alms and gifts for the poor. Eventually faith was strengthened and peace was restored.

In recent times, Kapampangans prayed and work together to rebuild their communities from the ruins of Mt. Pinatubo eruption. Two years ago, they rallied for the restoration of good governance in their province.  In commemoration of the golden anniversary of the Canonical Coronation, a caravan of goods traveled to Albay for the victims of Mayon Volcano eruption.  Fifty children of poor families are attending vocational or college courses with scholarships from Lamac king Birhen, Pondo ning Balen program of Social Action Center of Pampanga.  Gifts from devotees or lamac continue to provide for the poor including support to the archdiocesan seminary and care of sick clergy.

As a humble recognition of Kapampangans’ enthusiastic and deep devotion to the Mother of God, Pope Pius XII decreed in 1956 the bestowing of Canonical Crown to the Nuestra Senora de los Remedios and declaring her the patroness of Pampanga.  This devotion continues to this day, with replicas of the Virgen de los Remedios and Santo Cristo del Perdon visiting every chapel and church all year round.  Kapampangans in Los Angeles annually hold the cherished tradition of re-enacting the coronation rites and attended by kabalens from California, Nevada, Washington and other states.

This year’s celebration will begin with the procession of delegates from the different towns and flower bearing children.  His Excellency Paciano Aniceto of the Archdiocese of San Fernando, Pampanga will be the main celebrant of the Solemn Concelebrated Mass to be followed with a gala dinner and fiesta at the Glendale Civic Auditorium.  The faithful and other Marian devotees are invited.

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