St. Peter the Apostle School’s 50th Founding Anniversary

Cardinal Jose Advincula called on the faithful to embrace humility, repentance, and renewal as he led Ash Wednesday rites marking the start of Lent and the 50th founding anniversary of St. Peter the Apostle School.

In his homily, the cardinal reflected on the symbolism of ashes, describing them as a stark reminder of human mortality, sinfulness, and the fleeting nature of worldly attachments. While ashes may appear paradoxical in a season of purification, he said they reveal essential truths about life’s fragility and humanity’s constant need for conversion. Drawing from the Filipino experience of natural disasters and loss, he emphasized that material possessions, status, and even resentments can quickly “turn to dust.”

His eminence urged the faithful to practice detachment during Lent, noting that true freedom comes from letting go of unnecessary attachments. Citing the prophet Joel’s call to “rend your hearts, not your garments,” he stressed that repentance must be sincere and interior, not merely external or performative. He also warned against practicing prayer, fasting, and almsgiving for public recognition, highlighting the cultural temptation toward “pakitang-tao,” or keeping up appearances.

The cardinal encouraged Catholics to confront personal and societal sins honestly, including corruption and injustice, but reminded them that the ashes are ultimately a sign of hope and mercy. Referencing the message of Divine Mercy entrusted to St. Faustina, he underscored that God’s compassion is especially abundant for sinners who turn back to Him.

Linking the Lenten message to the school’s Golden Jubilee, Advincula said anniversaries should inspire gratitude and renewal. He praised the founders, teachers, administrators, parents, and generations of students who have contributed to the school’s mission of forming young people not only for academic success but also for service, virtue, and faith.

As the school marks 50 years, he challenged its community to recommit to its Catholic identity and apostolic mission. “From dust, God can raise new life,” he said, urging the faithful not to wipe away their ashes too quickly, but to let them serve as a visible reminder of God’s enduring love and the call to ongoing conversion.

The cardinal concluded by expressing hope that the Lenten season would renew the school’s mission in the years ahead, “for the glory of God and the service of His people.”