MANILA — Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula described the cross as a symbol of love and hope, an invitation to return to God, and a path to new life, during the Celebration of the Lord’s Passion at the Manila Cathedral on Good Friday.

Advincula reminded the faithful to reflect on Christ’s great sacrifice on the cross, which is a symbol of God’s love for humanity.

First, he spoke of the cross as a symbol of love and hope.

"Sa krus isinakrispisyo ni Kristo ang kaniyang sarili, hindi upang ipakita ang kapangyarihan, kung 'di upang ipadama ang Kanyang walang hanggang pagmamahal sa atin," Advincula said.

"Sa ating sariling buhay maaaring dumaan tayo sa pagsubok, pasakit, at pangungulila, subalit sa krus natututnan natin na kahit sa gitna ng kadiliman, ang pag-ibig ng Diyos ang ating sandigan, ang ating pag-asa na 'di natitinag," he added.

He also mentioned that the cross is an invitation for people to return to God and embrace the life that Christ offers.

"Ito ay patunay na may pag-asa ang bawat isa sa atin kahit gaano man tayo kahina, kahit ilang beses tayong magkamali. Patuloy tayong minamahal ng Diyos. Ang krus ay paanyaya upang tumalikod sa kasalanan at yakapin ang bagong simula," Advincula said.

And lastly. he spoke of the cross as the path to resurrection and eternal hope.

Before the Mass ended, the image of the crucified Jesus was unveiled and three candles were lit. The faithful lined up for the traditional pahalik to the image of Christ on the cross.