Bishop: God’s healing extends beyond physical illness at Lourdes feast

February 13, 2026 – 11:39 AM

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A Catholic bishop said February 11, the Solemnity of Our Lady of Lourdes, that God’s healing presence is felt not only in physical sickness but also in hidden emotional and spiritual struggles.

Bishop Elias Ayuban Jr. of Cubao, speaking at the National Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes, said many people carry burdens that remain invisible yet deeply affect their lives

“Marami sa atin ang may iniindang sakit na hindi nakikita: lungkot, takot, pagod, galit, panghihina ng loob, kawalan ng pag-asa,” Ayuban told church-goers during the Mass.

He said the Lourdes apparition serves as a reminder that God is close not only to the sick in body but also to those struggling internally.

“Ang Lourdes ay paalala na malapit ang Diyos sa mga maysakit — hindi lamang sa katawan, kundi sa damdamin at espiritu,” the bishop said.

Reflecting on the Gospel account of the wedding at Cana, Ayuban highlighted Mary’s attentiveness to human need, even before others voiced concern.

He said Mary’s response offers a model of faith amid difficulty, pointing to her instruction to the servants to do whatever Jesus commanded.

The bishop encouraged the faithful to bring their own moments of hardship to God, whether struggles within families, poverty, or weakened faith.

“Hindi niya ipinapangako na mawawala agad ang sakit,” Ayuban said. “Ngunit ipinapangako niya ito: naroon si Jesus, at kumikilos ang Diyos.”