Prayer Day 2025: Walking as Pilgrims of Hope: Rekindling Faith, Hope, and Love in Christ

In his homily, mass presider Msgr. Esteban “Bong” Lo invited us to see prayer not just as something we do, but as who we become. When prayer springs from the heart, we ourselves become the prayer—open to God 24/7, our lives beating in rhythm with His love. To live this way is to embrace faith, hope, and love as inseparable gifts that sustain us as pilgrims of hope.

As one JAR Family, we are called not only to pray but to embody prayer itself—witnesses of God’s graciousness, walking together in Faith in Jesus for Joy, Hope in Acceptance for Aspirations and Love in Remembering for Rekindling.

Mr. Timothy Gobio, Joy~Nostalg Land Acquisition Unit Head, reflected on three lasting lessons from Mrs. Ng. First, to always pray, trusting that God listens and answers in His time. Second, to love one’s work, for with love nothing is too difficult or impossible. And third, to stay united as one JAR Family—because true strength and lasting growth come from supporting one another in all that we do.

Ms. Annette Manapil, Corporate Planning and Investor Relations Group Head of Asia United Bank warmly reminded the JAR Family that prayer is more than words—it is heartfelt and active, expressed through adoration, contrition, thanksgiving, and supplication. Grateful for JAR’s care in nurturing talents and families, she especially honored Mrs. Ng, whose consistent prayerfulness, kindness, and generosity inspire all to live as pilgrims of hope, rekindling faith, hope, and love in Christ.

Mr. Geronimo Kamus, President of Republic Biscuit Corporation, honored Mrs. Ng as the guiding light of the JAR Family, whose faith, wisdom, and generosity inspire all. Reflecting on the Prayer Day theme, he reminded everyone that hope is a way of life, lived through service, excellence, and unity. True leadership, he said, offers comfort in strength and inspires by example. Placing our plans in God’s hands multiplies them, and though challenges come, God’s mercy sustains us through every storm.

Mrs. Ng shared a heartfelt reflection on faith, hope, and love, inviting everyone to walk as pilgrims of hope in Christ. She fondly recalled her childhood prayers: “I did not pray for wealth. I prayed, please protect my father, guide him.” Even from a young age, she recognized that true prayer is rooted in care for others.

As the matriarch of the JAR Family, Mrs. Ng emphasized trust, collaboration, and shared responsibility. “We don’t wish for wealth. What we need is trusting each other…your strength, your talent, your love of work…we need all of you, your hands, your minds,” she said. Her message went beyond personal success, extending to family, neighbors, and community. “Love your family…be present for your neighbors…forgive when needed,” she encouraged.

Mrs. Ng reminded everyone that prayer is not passive; it calls us to engage, to care, and to unite in heartfelt service to the millions of Filipino families we serve. As pilgrims of hope, we are guided by prayer, strengthened by faith, and inspired to act with mercy and compassion. Together, through our hands, minds, and hearts, we walk faithfully with Christ—rekindling hope, sharing love, and living a life of purpose.

• Watch Mrs. Ng’s full speech here (QR)

Joy~Nostalg Group Executive Mr. Jacinto Ng, Jr. closed the celebration with a heartfelt reminder to be pilgrims of hope—not only for ourselves, but for one another, and especially for those who need hope the most. 

He invited us to draw strength from our beloved matriarch, Mrs. Ng, and to listen closely to her message. As one JAR Family, let us remain steadfast in prayer, becoming living prayers for each other, witnesses of God’s graciousness, and companions on the journey of faith, hope, and love.