MANILA, Philippines ? Former president Corazon Aquino was ?not embarrassed? to publicly proclaim her faith and ?survived in pain or fame? because of this, according to the bishop who officiated the noon mass at Aquino?s wake at the Manila Cathedral Tuesday.

"I think Tita Cory survived in pain or fame because she brought prayer and faith not only to her family but to the public arena. She was not embarrassed to proclaim her faith," said Bishop Chito Tagle of the Diocese of Imus in his homily.

"Fidelity to God and family tells how faithful you will be in public service," said Tagle.

"Death is a gift of self, life, service and fruitfulness," he added.

"Follow Tita Cory's example of focusing on Jesus ? to act according to the ways of Jesus," he added.

Tagle recalled that his last conversation with Aquino was about her wish to go on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land.

"But now she's in the Holy Land with Ninoy [Cory?s husband, Senator Benigno Aquino Jr.] and the Father," he said.

Public viewing of Aquino?s remains, which began at 8 a.m., was suspended for the mass.

Ambassador Kristie Kenney, who came from the United States, arrived in time for the mass and was seated beside Ballsy Aquino-Cruz.

Also present were Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim, nuns from different congregations, representatives from the Girl Scouts of the Philippines and the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and friends and family of the Aquinos.

A necrological service will be held at 4 p.m. for Aquino.