Marian Solidarity: A Journey of Faith, Unity, and Global Impact

The Marian Solidarity for Pope Francis is an alliance of the nation’s Marian movements and organizations. Originally founded as the Marian Solidarity for Pope John Paul II, it later supported the pontificates of Benedict XVI and now Pope Francis. We are guided by our former envoy to the Vatican, Ambassador Howard Dee, and led by Ma. Victoria Borres.

While we undertake large programs, we primarily support initiatives of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), serving as its lay Marian arm. Our leaders regularly convene at the Assisi Foundation’s hall in Strata 2000 to strategize, delegate tasks, and share meals as longtime friends.

The scope of Marian Solidarity’s work is vast. We once maintained a website framing global news through the lens of the Gospel of Life versus the culture of death. One major initiative, A Million Rosaries for the World, involved praying the rosary for each of the 193 nations, with intentions based on socio-economic research. These intentions, along with background information on each country, were published in a booklet.

A highlight of our efforts was the 2017 Fatima Centennial Celebration. We organized the National Marian Congress on July 7–8, 2017, at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia. The theme, drawn from Our Lady’s message, was: “My Immaculate Heart will be your refuge and the way that will lead you to God.” The event featured flag processions, Taizé chants, the Holy Rosary, Eucharistic adoration, and the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. Speakers shared the story of Fatima, discussed Marian consecration, and explored the role of Mary and the Holy Spirit. A significant outcome of this event was the CBCP’s approval of the First Saturday Devotion, requested by the World Apostolate of Fatima, a Marian Solidarity member.

In 2021, we collaborated with the CBCP to organize the Year of St. Joseph. The celebration began with a March 19 novena, a 33-day spiritual preparation series, and culminated in the National Consecration to St. Joseph on May 1, broadcast from Mandaue, Cebu. Another milestone came in 2024 with a National Retreat for Priests in Cebu, featuring keynote speakers Sr. Briege McKenna and Fr. Pablo Escriva.

Beyond physical events, Marian Solidarity remains active online, providing access to the Divine Will cenacle and the Lay Apostles of the Returning King. We host Marian talks on Zoom, share prayers, and foster digital faith communities.

Despite the demands of this mission, we find strength in Our Lady’s promise:“In the end, my Immaculate Heart will triumph.”