Posted by The WORD in other words (2006) by Father Oliver Quilab SVD – Germany
Saturday 6th Week of Easter
A friend from Europe once marveled at the steady stream of Filipinos flocking to Baclaran, comparing it to the devotion he had seen in Poland or Mexico. When asked why Filipinos have such strong devotion to the Mother of Perpetual Help, I replied with the familiar saying: “Because we are children of perpetual asking.”
Critics may interpret Marian devotion as remnants of cultural or social structures, or as an overemphasis on petitionary prayer. Yet beneath this “perpetual asking” lies a profound faith in God — the source of all goodness, who knows our needs even before we ask (cf. Matthew 6:8).
Jesus Himself assures us: “Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete” (John 16:24). Filipinos take this promise to heart. While some may misinterpret it as a guarantee of endless supply, genuine prayer is not about manipulating heaven but about communion with God.
Experience teaches us that not everything we ask is granted in the way we expect. Sometimes God answers with silence or even a “no.” Yet this is not rejection but part of His greater plan: “We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him” (Romans 8:28).
True prayer — whether adoration, contrition, thanksgiving, or supplication — is both personal and communal. It attunes us to God’s presence, liberates us from narrow self-interest, and transforms our petitions. As the psalmist proclaims: “Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth” (Psalm 124:8).
When we pray with Mary and the saints, we are not worshiping them but joining their intercession, trusting that God’s love permeates our being and reshapes our desires.
Marian devotion at Baclaran is not simply about asking endlessly, but about trusting deeply. It is about learning to see our petitions in the light of God’s love, allowing prayer to transform us. In this way, devotion becomes a liberating experience — one that strengthens faith, renews hope, and deepens communion with the God who never abandons His children.
“Lord, teach us to pray with faith and humility, that in asking we may also learn to trust Your will and rejoice in Your love.”
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