Penang: Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization, delivered a deeply moving message of hope and companionship during Holy Mass at the Minor Basilica of St Anne in Bukit Mertajam on Friday. Speaking to hundreds of delegates participating in the FABC Congress of the Great Pilgrimage of Hope, he reminded the Church in Asia that Jesus remains a constant companion walking beside every person, every day, in every circumstance.
Addressing the assembly of 773 delegates from across the continent, Cardinal Tagle said that Jesus “waits for each one as a brother,” and journeys with humanity even when people fail to recognize His presence. He emphasized that the pilgrimage toward 2033 marking 2,000 years of the Resurrection is not an endpoint but a milestone in a much longer spiritual journey. “Our path continues until we finally reach the Father,” he said.
Reflecting on the nature of human relationships, Cardinal Tagle noted that no two people fully understand each other not even spouses or close family. Teachers can only glimpse their students’ inner lives. Likewise, communities often travel together with incomplete knowledge, yet remain united in faith and purpose.
He said this recognition of human limitation should not discourage believers, but remind them that the journey of faith is one of humility and openness.
Drawing from the Gospel story of the disciples on the road to Emmaus, Cardinal Tagle spoke about moments of confusion, disappointment, and uncertainty. Just as the disciples struggled to interpret the events around them, modern believers too face doubts and unanswered questions.
“But Jesus never abandons us,” he affirmed. “He stays close, listens to our stories, clears our doubts, and leads us to a personal encounter with Him.”
He urged the faithful to remember that Christ is not only a teacher but a fellow traveller someone who walks ahead, opens the way, and prepares each one for the Father’s embrace.
“Jesus walks beyond 2033,” he said. “Where are we going, and to whom are we going? Jesus is waiting for us. He is our companion and our loving brother.”
The liturgy at St Anne’s Minor Basilica marked one of the most vibrant moments of the FABC Congress. The local community in Penang welcomed the delegates with warmth and enthusiasm, filling the historic shrine with joyful participation.
Following the Mass, celebrations continued with a spirited musical concert led by Australian priest-singer Fr Rob Galea, drawing thousands of faithful from the Diocese of Penang. The evening overflowed with music, prayer, and fellowship, expressing the unity and hope at the heart of the Pilgrimage of Hope.
The Congress continues to be a moment of renewal for the Church in Asia, reminding delegates that the journey of faith is shared guided always by the presence of Jesus who walks with His people every step of the way.