Thomasian Martyrs use prayer as the direct line of communication with God, which provides them guidance and assurance during their final moments, UST College of Tourism and Hospitality Management (CTHM) Regent Rev. Fr. Ferdinand Bautista, O.P., said on Monday, Nov. 4, at the Santísimo Rosario Parish.

During the First Day of the Triduum and Feast of the Thomasian Martyrs mass, the CTHM regent recalled the life and death of the Thomasian Martyrs, St. Antonio González, St. Domingo Henares and Blessed Buenaventura Garcia Paredes.

He said that prayer played a vital role in the martyrs' lives since it was their source of strength and communion with God.

“For many martyrs, prayer is not just a ritual but a profound expression of faith and resilience in the face of persecution as they encounter trials and ultimately death for their belief,” the preacher said.

“The 17 Thomasian Martyrs gave their lives for the love of Christ; they martyred down the challenges as Thomasians now, perhaps not to witness to our Catholic faith by dying but by honestly fulfilling our duties silently as students, instructors, office staff, and administrators giving life a little at a time,” Bautista added.

He also said that the martyrs’ sanctity and devotion during their persecution inspire us to be more inclined to God in prayer and gospel values during difficulties and struggles.

“One significant aspect of prayerful martyrs is its role in fostering the sense of community and solidarity among believers,” he said.

Bautista also added that martyrs were not alone in their struggles as they often prayed together and reinforced their collective strengths with other believers.

“For many martyrs, prayer is not just a ritual but a profound expression of faith and resilience in the face of persecution as they encounter trials and ultimately death for their belief,” the preacher said.

In the last part of the homily, Bautista reminded Thomasians that the martyrs' devotion and faith inspire all to be strong in their faith, to live out "truth and charity" by living a little at a time, and to include prayer in everything they do in the university.

The Triduum and Feast for Thomasian Martyrs will be held until Wednesday, Nov. 6, bearing the theme, “Thomasian Martyrs; Companions in Prayers and Witness to Truth in Charity.”