Manila (AsiaNews) - The 18th National Migrants' Sunday was celebrated yesterday, the first Sunday of Lent. There is no denying that among the new missionaries, the Filipino migrant workers take an important place. Found in practically all parts of the world, they bear not only the hope of lifting their families from poverty: most of all, they bring their faith. There have been numerous reports of Filipino domestic helpers in Italy and elsewhere who have influenced their employees to return to the Catholic faith.

The Episcopal Commission for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People estimates about 7.53 million Filipinos are currently working abroad, affecting 8 million families or more than 60% of the Filipino population. The government has recognized them as "modern heroes" for their sacrifices, giving service to others and contributing to a more harmonious, peaceful world. Religious leaders abroad have likewise recognized them as instruments of evangelization and inspirational models for a culture of peace.

For this reason and to pay tribute to all migrants and their families, the Philippine Bishops have declared for the past 18 years, the first Sunday of  Lent as National Migrants' Sunday.. Simultaneously celebrated in Davao, Mindanao by Archbishop Fernando Capalla, and in Cebu City by Cardinal Ricardo Vidal, the Episcopal Chair Bishop Ramon Arguelles gathered thousands of migrant workers and their families from different parishes in Metro Manila and nearby provinces. The  grand celebration was held at Rizal Park yesterday, February 29th, with the theme "Filipinos everywhere, contributing to a better world."

The highlight of the occasion was the celebration of the Holy Eucharist with Archbishop Gaudencio Rosales of Manila as main celebrant. In his homily, the Archbishop related the words of the Bishop in Perth, Australia, who said that his only accomplishment was having invited Filipino nurses to work in the hospitals in his diocese. The women created a remarkably positive rapport among their patients and the diocese. The Archbishop pointed that this shows that the Filipinos have innate qualitites which they themselves take for granted.  He urged all the listeners to support those working abroad, not only through prayers but also with letters, text messages through mobile phones, and other means of communication.

The day was culminated with a piano concert by Carlos Ibay, an American-born Filipino who has been blind since infancy. (S.E.)