(DC file photo)
The Archdiocese of Manila has directed Catholic parishes and religious communities to offer special prayers for rain beginning Sunday, November 8, as the Philippines braces for the possible effects of a very strong El Niño.
Manila Archbishop Cardinal Jose Advincula issued the directive Thursday, urging clergy and the faithful to recite the Oratio Imperata ad Petendam Pluviam, or Obligatory Prayer to Request Rain, during daily Masses.
The prayer will be recited after the Post-Communion Prayer and will remain in effect until the archdiocese issues further instructions.
“In view of the threat of a strong El Niño phenomenon and its possible consequences, including prolonged drought and water scarcity, I am directing all parishes and communities in the Archdiocese of Manila to pray the Oratio Imperata ad Petendam Pluviam,” Advincula said.
The cardinal emphasized the importance of collective prayer, particularly for communities that could suffer from prolonged dry conditions, water shortages, and extreme heat.
“As we implore the Lord to grant us the gift of rain, let us be reminded of the power of united prayer,” he said.
Advincula also called on Catholics to show solidarity with poor and vulnerable communities that could be disproportionately affected by drought.
Beyond prayer, the Manila archbishop urged priests and religious leaders to promote environmental awareness and responsible water consumption.
He stressed that water is an essential resource that must be protected and conserved, particularly during periods of extreme weather.
“Let us help our communities recognize that the natural world is not merely a resource to be consumed, but a precious gift entrusted by the Creator to our care and stewardship,” Advincula said.
He encouraged the faithful to adopt practical measures to conserve water, avoid waste, and protect natural resources.
“Let our prayers move us to concrete action. As we ask God to send us rain, may we also become more faithful stewards of His creation,” he added.
The special prayer seeks divine intervention to ease extreme heat, replenish water sources, sustain agricultural production, and prevent water and electricity shortages.
It also calls on the faithful to exercise compassion, generosity, and environmental responsibility during difficult conditions.
The prayer concludes with invocations to Our Lady of Guadalupe, Saint Rose of Lima, Saint Lorenzo Ruiz, and Saint Pedro Calungsod.
The archdiocese issued the directive following an announcement by the country’s weather bureau that a very strong El Niño had developed in the tropical Pacific Ocean.
According to the weather agency, the phenomenon is expected to persist through the first half of 2027, with its peak projected before the end of 2026.
The anticipated dry conditions have raised concerns over possible water shortages, agricultural losses, and increased temperatures in vulnerable communities.
The Archdiocese of Manila urged Catholics to combine prayer with concrete environmental action as the country prepares for the potential impact of El Niño.
