Cory’s wish is healing of the nation, says priest

What former President Corazon "Cory" Aquino prays for is not her own healing but that of the nation, said healing priest Fr. Fernando Suarez as he led Monday's sixth novena Mass offered for the healing of the cancer-stricken leader.

Speaking before friends and former Cabinet officials of the country’s first woman President, alongside mass goers at the Sto. Niño de Paz Chapel in Greenbelt 5, Makati, Suarez recounted how Aquino received the news that she was diagnosed of cancer back in March, 2008.

"When she was first diagnosed of her illness, she told me that she is prepared for whatever the Lord wants for her. All she wanted is for the will of God be done,” he said.

"That is why I believe that what Tita Cory wants for now more than her own healing is the healing of our nation, both moral and spiritual," Suarez said in his homily.

The priest described Aquino as a fulfilled woman. "Wala na siyang mahihiling pa kaya all she needs is to pray, meditate, and reflect," he said.

"This woman is holier than any woman I have ever met. I admire her grace, simplicity, and words that are filled with so much dignity and compassion," he said, adding that he was allowed to visit Aquino at the Makati Medical Center.

As of press time, Aquino remains conscious and stable but "her normal appetite is not yet back," according to spokesperson Deedee Siytangco.

Despite the confidentiality of Aquino’s medical situation, Siytangco said the former President will stay hospitalized “indefinitely” even if the nine-day novena Mass at Greenbelt 5 is already drawing to an end this Thursday.

Aside from Aquino’s former Cabinet officials, seen Monday at the novena Mass were Susan Roces and her daughter, Grace Poe Llamanzares.

“We know that a lot of people are concerned about her and my family is one of them,” Poe said. “When FPJ was sick, it was she who visited us and brought a rosary so she could pray with me. This time, my family is praying for her,” Roces said.

Meanwhile, community prayer vigils will be held in 33 barangays of Makati City as the residents join in praying for Aquino’s speedy recovery.

Makati City Mayor Jejomar Binay urged residents and the public to offer prayers for the former president.

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