God's Word and Daily Life

By Father Bernard Holzer, aa

 Are you following Pope Francis' apostolic journey to Asia and Oceania? What beautiful images, stories of encounters, testimonies and encouragement!

 When I read Pope Francis' speech on the esplanade in front of the Holy Cross Cathedral in Vanimo in Papua New Guinea, last Sunday, I thought of the Philippines.

 Change the name of the country, replace Papua New Guinea with the Philippines, and you will read a beautiful encouragement to live as a Christian here in our beautiful country:

 “Dear friends, after visiting your country, many tourists return home saying they have seen ‘paradise’. They usually refer to the natural beauty they enjoyed. We know, however, that this is not the greatest treasure. There is a more beautiful and fascinating treasure that is found in your hearts and that manifests itself in the charity with which you love each other.

 The most precious gift you can share with everyone is to make Papua New Guinea famous not only for its variety of plant and animal life, its enchanting beaches and clear sea, but famous above all for the good people you meet here. I say this especially to you, children, with your contagious smiles and your exuberant joy, which spreads out in every direction. You are the most beautiful image that visitors can take with them and keep in their hearts!

 I encourage you, then, to continue to beautify this happy land with your presence as a loving Church.”

 May the Lord bless us for being his collaborators and friends.

By Fr. Bernard Holzer, aa

 Today, at the age of 87, Pope Francis is embarking on his longest journey that will take him to different Asian countries such as Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, East Timor and Singapore, at the very gates of China.

 In his encounters with various civil and religious authorities, he will undoubtedly plead for a universal fraternity between men and women in all their diversity, between states and religions, for the safeguarding of our common home, our planet.

 Let us follow this missionary journey closely. Let us read and meditate on the Pope's messages. Let's also listen to the reactions of all parties. Let us open our hearts and carry this journey in our prayers.

 Please link to the Holy See website for the program and the missal of the celebrations: Pope's Schedule for Apostolic Journey to Asia and Oceania - Vatican News

By Faith Marbella

 On August 28, we celebrate the Feast of St. Augustine, Bishop and Doctor of the Catholic Church.

 St. Augustine, one of the most influential figures in early Christianity, was a profound thinker whose ideas have deeply shaped Western thought. His journey from a life of hedonism and skepticism to one of faith and devotion illustrates the power of spiritual transformation. Augustine's works, especially "Confessions" and "The City of God," explore the nature of sin, grace, and the human condition with remarkable depth and honesty. His reflections on the restless human heart—yearning for God—resonate with readers across centuries, reminding us of the universal quest for meaning and truth. Augustine's synthesis of Christian doctrine with classical philosophy created a lasting intellectual legacy that continues to influence theology, philosophy, and ethics today.

 St. August is our teacher of repentance- a profound and transformative act that lies at the heart of spiritual growth. It involves more than just feeling remorse for past wrongdoings; it is a deliberate turning away from sin and a reorientation of one's life toward what is good, true, and just. True repentance requires humility, as it means acknowledging one's flaws and failures with sincerity. It is an inner conversion that seeks not only forgiveness but also the strength to change and the commitment to live differently.

 Like him, may we repent for nothing it too late to be with God. St. Augustine, pray for us!

On Thursday, August 22, we celebrate the Queenship of Mary. The Queenship of Mary invites us to consider her relationship with Christ and the Church. As the Mother of Jesus, who is both King and Lord of all creation, Mary naturally shares in his royal dignity. Her queenship is not one of earthly power or dominance but of humility, service, and maternal care. It is a reflection of her fiat, her total and unreserved "yes" to God's will, which allowed her to cooperate fully in the redemptive work of her Son.

Mary's queenship also speaks to her role as an intercessor. Just as a queen in a kingdom might intercede on behalf of her subjects, Mary, as Queen of Heaven, intercedes for us before God. This aspect of her queenship emphasizes her compassion, mercy, and motherly concern for all humanity. Catholics believe that, as a mother, she continually seeks to guide her children towards her Son, drawing them closer to the heart of God.

Thus, the celebration reminds the faithful of the hope promised by Christ. Mary’s assumption into heaven and her crowning as Queen serve as a foretaste of the glory that awaits all who are faithful to Christ. In her, we see the fulfillment of God's promises and the ultimate victory of grace over sin.

May we Mary’s Queenship be an inspiration to us all!

By Fr. Bernard Holzer, aa

The feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (on August 15) is the celebration of our destiny. It reminds us that God is with us and wants us to be with him forever. It is a foretaste of our own resurrection.

Mary, the mother of Jesus, precedes us and shows us the way. This road is a road of service, a "visitation", an attention and care to those who are in need, who need a visible sign that God is with them.

Let's sing our own "Magnificat" to him!

By Faith Marbella

 Tomorrow, 31 July, is the feast of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Jesuits also known as the patron saint of retreats.

 One of the core principles of Ignatian spiritual is the MAGIS – a principle challenges individuals to seek the greater good, to engage more fully with the world, and to live out their faith with excellence and integrity.

 The concept of "magis" is a cornerstone of Ignatian spirituality, originating from the teachings and life of St. Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits). Derived from the Latin word for "more" or "greater," magis encapsulates the idea of striving for excellence and doing more for the greater glory of God (Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam). This principle encourages individuals to go beyond mediocrity, to pursue the highest good in their endeavors, and to continuously seek ways to improve and deepen their relationship with God and service to others.

 However, the pursuit of magis must be balanced with humility and the understanding that it is not about perfection but about striving to align more closely with God’s will. It requires the recognition that our efforts are part of a larger divine plan and that ultimate success is in God’s hands. This balance prevents the concept from becoming a source of pride or burnout.

 So, today, let us see the ordinariness of our lives and check in what areas we can serve the poor and the least more, for the greater glory of God!

By Faith Marbella

 World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly, established by Pope Francis in 2021, is a significant observance that invites us to reflect on the invaluable contributions of older generations to our families, communities, and societies. This day is not just a celebration but a reminder of the deep-rooted connections that bind generations together and the wisdom that flows from our elders to the younger members of society.

 For us Filipinos, grandparents and the elderly hold a unique place in our lives. They are the custodians of our history, culture, and traditions. Through their stories, experiences, and lessons, they provide us with a sense of identity and continuity. They remind us of where we come from and offer perspectives that can help guide our future.

 Today we are challenged to recognize the often overlooked and underappreciated role that older individuals play. In many cultures, elders are revered for their wisdom and experience. They are seen as the bedrock of the family unit, offering support, guidance, and love. However, in a rapidly modernizing world, the elderly can sometimes feel marginalized or forgotten. This day serves as a powerful reminder to honor and respect their contributions, ensuring they remain integral parts of our lives.