UST vice rector: Christmas can never be canceled

NOT EVEN a pandemic can take away Christmas.

During the Paskuhan Mass on Dec. 17, UST Vice Rector Fr. Isaias Tiongco, O.P. said Christmas celebrations continue amid the coronavirus outbreak because of the hope brought to the world by Christ’s birth.

“In spite of inconveniences, Christmas can never be canceled nor taken away from us, not even this cruel Covid-19 disease… with hope, we can live in peace, in faith and in love,” Tiongco said.

“Nothing can ever cancel or wipe out the hope and excitement Christian believers experience every year as they commemorate and celebrate the earthly arrival of Jesus,” he added.

NOW: Paskuhan Mass led by UST Vice Rector Rev. Fr. Isaias Tiongco, O.P.

WATCH HERE: https://t.co/o09mNUk9PT pic.twitter.com/9BtM3JcdUR

— The Varsitarian (@varsitarianust) December 17, 2020

The vice rector urged Christians to anticipate Christ’s birth “with the same hope and energy” despite this year’s festivities being celebrated in sn.

“[It] should be as joyful as ever and full of hope and expectation, bringing us the true peace that can only come from the Christ Child, our Prince of Peace,” Tiongco said.

Tiongco also prayed for strength for Filipino families amid the pandemic.

“As we anticipate his (Christ’s) coming, we pray that he restores, renews and strengthens the family today, [which has been] overwhelmed by so many challenges and complexities, especially during this pandemic,” Tiongco said.

The Paskuhan Mass was streamed live on Facebook.

Other Paskuhan activities will be held virtually due to pandemic restrictions.

A “Concert for a Cause” will be broadcast tomorrow, Dec. 18, at 7 p.m., which will feature a “mini-documentary” highlighting performances and fireworks from previous Paskuhan celebrations.

“Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel shall come to thee O Israel” is the theme of this year’s Paskuhan festivities.