CEBU CITY: On Sunday, the Archbishop of Cebu, Jose Palma, delivered a New Year's message encouraging the Roman Catholic faithful to embrace hope and gratitude as they enter the new year. According to Philippines News Agency, Reflecting on the lessons learned in 2023, the Archbishop emphasized the importance of carrying these experiences into the new year. "It's better to start the new year with lessons learned from your experiences," he stated. Emphasizing faith, Archbishop Palma reassured the congregation that, despite uncertainties about the future, they can be confident in God's benevolent plans. He also highlighted the significance of the new year as a celebration of the Virgin Mary, urging the 4.6 million baptized Catholics in the Archdiocese of Cebu to seek guidance through prayer.