Philippine E-Journals

Marian Devotion and Liturgy in the Church’s Evangelizing Mission in Asia

Josefina Manabat

 

Abstract:

The phenomenon of a vibrant Marian devotion in Asia would never escape notice with its various manifestations that are embedded in the religious cultures and consciousness of the Asian people. In the Philippines alone, such manifestations include numerous parishes, barrio chapels, shrines, and oratories dedicated to Mary. Other than being called a Christian nation, Filipinos love to be called a Marian nation. However, the reality of Marian popular piety in the Philippines is not without its shadows. The otherwise bright horizon is at times dotted with elements that need to be purified and re-aligned with orthodox faith and practice. This is particularly evident in the failure to see the proper relationship between Marian popular religiosity and the Church’s liturgy. Achieving this proper relationship will disclose the crucial role that devotion to Mary can play in the task of evangelization in Asia. Indeed, Mary was evangelizer par excellence because she brought the Good News to the world.