A statue of Saint Lorenzo Ruiz, the first Filipino martyr saint, was blessed at St. Joseph’s Church, Garden Road by Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Ha Chi-shing, along with Divine Word missionaries parish priest Father Joseph Tan Leitao on September 13. The ceremony was also attended by parish council chairperson Peter Tam, executive member Jhonatan Granadino and others.
During the ceremony, Bishop Ha led a prayer, reminding those present that the image is a reminder of the saints’ holiness, sacrifice and steadfast witness through life’s trials.
The image is now in a garden with sheltered seats where people can rest or pray for the intercession of the saint.
St. Lorenzo Ruiz (c. 1594–1637) was the first Filipino saint and martyr. Raised in Binondo, Manila, he served as an altar boy and calligrapher. Fleeing to Japan after a false accusation, he was arrested during Christian persecutions. Refusing to renounce his faith despite severe torture, he died a martyr. His feast day is celebrated on September 28. SE
