Peace! Kalilintad! Shalom!

Tag: bible

  • GOD, our Parent

    GOD, our Parent

    July 27, 2025 – 17th Sunday in Ordinary Time

    Click here for the readings (https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/072725.cfm)

    We come to know God as creator. We believe that He creates and still creating everything in the world. We affirm that He creates and wills everything that happens and happening in life. But what kind of creator God is? How do we view and consider Him as our creator?

    Too often, God is regarded as a Builder God, who plans, schemes, designs, engineers, produces, reproduces, develops, improves and maintains all creatures and creation. In other words, he is a single-minded creator who straightforwardly constructs towards the achievement of His objectives and the realization of the finished-product. Meaning, if God say something will happen or will something to happen, it will happen no matter what. 

    While this idea have some basis in the Bible, it can be taken to extremes and lead to a fatalistic view of life like: “God is going to do what He is going to do and wills what going to happen ever since before, and until now and forever… regardless of what I do, what happens to us.”

    God however makes himself known to us differently. Through Jeremiah, He reveals himself to us as a different kind of creator. Instead of a builder, He identifies himself as a potter, who forms and shapes the clay to be a new emerging creation. This means that God is more like an artist in forming and creating us. As his creation, we are hand-crafted by God – “we are in His hand” created by and through his own very hands. We are also not finished-products but a work of art in progress.

    God works with circumstances as they emerge. He may intend to make a vase out of us. But events may cause God to make a cereal bowl instead, for now, and come in near future, a chinaware plate. But one thing for certain: He continually creates, forms and shapes us into more perfect persons that we can be, but patiently…. considering our circumstances and at our own pace.

    God then is more than just a builder, producer or author. As our Lord Jesus makes know to us, He is our formator, parent, mentor, or coach who patiently forms us to the best that we can be at this moment, and continually shapes and reshapes us to the best we will be. 

    In teaching us to pray the words of the “Lord’s prayers” Jesus is not only teaching us what to pray, but also what prayer is & how to pray. In praying the “Our Father” then, Jesus is telling us that prayer is about establishing a personal relationship with God than just behaving a formal etiquette before God. Addressing God properly as “Our father” emphasizes that God is not only our Lord, Creator, Master, above & beyond but above all God is our personal PARENT (Ama, Amahan, Father) whom we love & praise, and we trust & rely on of our human needs for sustenance, mercy & forgiveness & strength amidst the challenges of life.

    Furthermore, in our gospel today Jesus is teaching us that  like a child to a parent, praying  to God is all about our asking, searching, seeking & knocking doors towards a contact, conversation & communion with God. Meaning, to pray to God as Jesus teaches us, is our affectionate love expressions (our  “pamarayeg, lambing o paanga-anga”) with God, our Father. Like any parent, God knows already what we need & wants what is better (even best) for us His children. And all we have to do is to lovingly ask, knock, seek & search what is better for us from Him. And like any parent, God blesses us all His children, and surely God blesses mostly His grateful, loving, trusting & “pamarayegon” affectionate children.

    May we pray more than just out of our formal obligation or etiquette but towards having a personal loving pamarayeg with God, our Father now & always.

    So be it. Hinaut pa unta. Amen.

  • FAITH AND MY NYD JOURNEY

    FAITH AND MY NYD JOURNEY

    Faith is the quiet strength that carries us through life’s most uncertain moments. It is not simply a belief in something unseen, but a deep trust that no matter how unclear the path may be, we are not walking alone. There have been times in my life when doubts, fears, or hardships threatened to overshadow hope—but faith reminded me to keep moving forward.

    A Reflection by Vanezza L. Olivar

    What makes faith so powerful is that it does not require certainty. It asks only for willingness—a willingness to believe, to hope, and to endure. It does not promise a life without struggle, but it offers the courage to face challenges with grace and the resilience to rise again when we fall.

    Despite being the smallest delegation in the recent National Youth Day 2025, faith has been a source of peace. Whether through prayer, reflection, or simply trusting in a higher purpose, I have come to understand that faith is not about having all the answers. Faith in God is about finding strength even in the many questions. Faith leads to light that continues to shine, even when everything else feels dark. Faith does not remove life’s storms, but it anchors us through them. And that, I believe, is the greatest gift I have received.

    The journey of many young people during the National Youth Day 2025 in the Archdiocese of Caceres, was a unique and transformative chapter in life. It has become a time filled with discoveries, challenges, and growth. The opportunities given allowed us to explore who we are, what we believe in, and what we hope to become. Along the way, we encountered both triumphs and failures, each shaping our character and helping us understand the world around us.

    Being youth is often marked by energy and ambition, but it is also a time of confusion and vulnerability. There are moments that I too feel lost or unsure, questioning my own choices and direction. Yet, these very struggles are what built resilience and inspire wisdom. I realized, mistakes are not signs of weakness—they are powerful lessons that guide us toward maturity.

    As I reflect on the journey of being young during this NYD2025, I see it as a time of endless potentials. It is the foundation on which our dreams are built, relationships are formed, and values are developed. It is also a reminder that we are constantly evolving, and that it’s okay not to have everything figured out.

    Most importantly, the youth-journey is not meant to be walked alone. With the guidance of family, mentors, friends, and faith, we find the strength to face life’s uncertainties. As we grow older, we carry the lessons of our youth with us. These are lessons of courage, identity, and hope. In every step, whether forward or backward, there is purpose. And in every young heart, there is the promise of a bright and meaningful future.

    Despite not having the support from my parish, I made it. It’s with God’s guidance and grace. The NYD celebration was certainly not easy to many young pilgrims. But with God’s mercy, I also met individuals who made my prayers into reality. Many helped to heal my wounds of not having the support coming from my home parish.

    In the end, I’ve come to see this pain as part of my own growth. It reminded me of the importance of kindness, the strength in being gentle, and the power of choosing to speak with care. Though hurtful words can leave scars, they also teach us to be more thoughtful, compassionate, and strong.

    But all of those come from my faith and service . And so I end this reflection with this quote, “A heart touched by faith learns to rise after every fall, love after every loss, and believe after every doubt.” DIOS MABALOS! SHUKRAN.

  • Our CHOICE to be Christian

    Our CHOICE to be Christian

    June 29, 2025 – Solemnity of Saint Peter and Paul

    Click here for the readings (https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/062925-Mass.cfm)

    Perhaps we may raise the questions: “How come only few people nowadays wanting to join priesthood and religious life? How come a number of people nowadays are not getting married & just opt for cohabitation (if not, getting married in the church)? How come being stay-home single for life is on the rise?” Or in other words, “how come wanting to be true disciples of Christ are dwindling in numbers?”

    Regardless of specific circumstances, perhaps this is caused by the requirements-entail of being a disciple. Yes, Jesus once said: “Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross & follow me”. With this, easy for us to think & excuse ourselves readily as to how difficult self-denial, sacrifice & obedience that Christian discipleship demands of us.

    However, before we think of the requirements & demands of discipleship, we must consider that to be disciple of Jesus is first and foremost, a CHOICE. Jesus said: “Whoever wishes to come after me….” Meaning, Christian discipleship – to follow Jesus is a Choice. Demanding & difficult it may be, being disciples of our Lord Jesus Christ is never implied and enforced to us. It is our Choice & Option to be Christian & what kind of Christian we are to be.

    When he asked the disciples in our gospel today: “Who do you say I am?”, Jesus is asking them then & us now not to recite a formula or creed, or to laud the formal title or doing lip-services to Him, but Jesus is asking us to make a choice, to choose & claim Jesus as our personal Christ, and to what kind of Christian we choose to be. And for Peter to claim Jesus as Christ, he has to experience Jesus first as person as well as to decide eventually for himself that Jesus is his Christ as well as to choose himself to be a disciple of Jesus, & what kind of disciple of Jesus he choose to be.

    Meaning, by choosing Jesus as his CHRIST, Peter becomes a Christian disciple & commissioned to be the rock-based of our church & the key-holder to God’s kingdom of heaven. So also, Paul kept his faith & through him the proclamation might be completed and all the Gentiles might hear it. In other words, with & by their choice to be  follows their mission to be Christian.

    Yes, we may at times use the excuse that Jesus even said, “Many are called, but few are chosen”. But “few are chosen” because even when we are all called,  few must HAVE Chosen to be and remains to be His worthy disciple. Meaning, wanting to be true disciples of Christ are dwindling in numbers because few have chosen to be, while being called & invited. Again to know Christ & be a Christian is Our Choice. Without our choice to be, there is no clear mission & direction to be & do in faith & life.

    Nevertheless, the Lord will always continue to call us again & anew to be His disciple, however we choose & respond to Him. And it is up to us then what kind of Christian or not we choose to be.

    Today we honor Peter & Paul. Two great men of our faith who personally chose Jesus to be their Christ. By their choice, they become Christians. And we come to know & choose Jesus as our Christ & be His disciples through Peter & Paul.

    In whatever life we live now, like Peter & Paul may we be worthy & true disciples to the kind of Christian life we choose to be, for we know that to choose Jesus we will be in grace. And not making any choice for Jesus & not growing as His disciples, we will be disgraced towards oblivion.

    So, by our choice we pray that may be blessed worthy to be disciples of Christ in faith & life now & always.

    So Be It. Amen

  • Because of Love: The Purpose Behind My NYD Journey

    Because of Love: The Purpose Behind My NYD Journey

    A Reflection on My National Youth Day Journey
    A Reflection by Miss Jossivel Colita, PYM Youth Leader

    “Kung dili ako, para kang kinsa?”
    This was the very first question I asked myself even before the National Youth Day began. I kept wondering: If this journey is not meant for me, then who is it for? But if it truly is for me — and God allows me to join — then it must be grace. A grace with purpose. A grace that’s meant to do something more in me and through me.

    There were times I felt hopeless about joining NYD, especially because of financial concerns. But God’s grace never fails. I was unexpectedly called by our Vicar General, and we talked about the things I needed — including financial support. That moment reminded me that when God wills something for you, He makes a way.

    Before NYD, I was in a difficult place. I felt exhausted from organizing our Parish Youth Day. I felt invisible, unheard, unappreciated. I was tired — physically, emotionally, spiritually. I told myself: “When NYD ends, I’ll stop. I’m tired of understanding. I’m tired of giving. I’m tired, period.”

    But that pain, that tiredness, that sense of loss — it all led me to a deeper realization. It helped me see the light and my true purpose. I started asking: Why did God still grant me the grace to join NYD? Why did I have to feel lost, weak, and tired before getting there?

    Then came the first day of NYD. A day of warm welcomes, new smiles, and joyful faces from other dioceses. Despite being the smallest delegation, we were embraced with so much love. My foster family welcomed me with open arms. That day, I felt something I hadn’t felt in a while — loved. I realized that I wasn’t alone after all. God gave me a family through people I had just met.

    During the Translacion of Our Lady of Peñafrancia, I began to complain. My feet hurt. The heat was unbearable. The line was too long. It was taking forever to move. But in that moment of discomfort, I encountered my true self. I realized: sometimes, we focus too much on negative things — things that weaken our spirit and body. But what we truly need is faith, hope, and patience. These three give us the strength to continue, not just for ourselves, but for those who need us most.

    My NYD journey reminded me of the reason behind it all. It gave me strength. It gave me a renewed vision of myself — that I am capable, that I am chosen, that I am enough. Even in the face of trials, I am reminded: we are not tested to be destroyed, but to be refined.

    Many times, we are tested by our own thoughts. But in all that we go through, we must proclaim the goodness of God — goodness that gives us hope. A hope not just for ourselves, but for all creation. All the pain, sadness, and struggles I experienced were not punishments, but invitations — invitations to persevere in prayer and to trust in God’s plan.

    I was also reminded of the true meaning of chastity — not just about avoiding physical intimacy, but about purity in all aspects of life. Purity in our thoughts, in our actions, in our words, in our intentions, in the way we treat others. If we live by this, nothing — not even the strongest storms — can bring us down.

    Because if we are rooted in Christ, no uncertainty, no struggle, no suffering can shake our purpose.

    Thank you, NYD, for allowing me to see that my pain had purpose.
    Thank you, Lord, for reminding me that I am loved, called, and chosen.

    And to everyone reading — remember this:


    When God calls you, He equips you.
    And when He allows you to feel weak,
    It’s because He’s preparing to show you His strength.

    And in the end — love remains.
    It is love that gives us hope.
    Love that gives us courage.
    Love that empowers our renewed mission and purpose — the very purpose revealed to me through this NYD experience.
    This is the greatest reason why I was able to join NYD: because of God’s love for me.

    A love that constantly gives me strength,
    A love that gives me understanding,
    And a love that reminds me —
    I belong to God.

  • Unforgettable Firsts: My National Youth Day Journey

    Unforgettable Firsts: My National Youth Day Journey

    A Reflection by Richly Allin King B. Vildosola, Youth Minister

    “Experience is the best teacher, especially when it’s your first time.” This quote primarily refers on trying new things which can be transformative. Indeed, first-hand experiences shape our perspectives and understanding. 

    The National Youth Day (NYD) 2025, happened on June 10-14, in the Archdiocese of Caceres, Naga City. It was an encounter of young pilgrims of hope nationwide. It strengthens the relationship of the youth with God, our Father, and our Mother, the Inà ng Peñafrancia. 

    It was my first time attending and joining NYD, with heart full of hope and mind filled with uncertainty of “Why I am here?”

    I realized that I was there because I am His servant, His child, His son, and His believer. God sent me to the NYD because of many purposes. First, to reconnect with God. Second, to strengthen my faith with Him. And third, to beome a bearer of hope for my community and co-youth. 

    Attending the NYD was the highlight of this journey. Connecting with fellow youth from diverse backgrounds, sharing stories, and learning from inspiring speakers was life-changing. NYD taught me the value of community, faith, resilience and chastity. I realized that even in uncertainty, hope and determination can guide us forward.

    In addition, it reminds me to nurture my faith and develop my self that in every aspect of our individual lives there is God. The Lord is always there for us, giving us light and life. 

    These experiences have shaped me in ways I never thought were possible. They’ve broadened my perspective and fueled my passion for growth as a young person

    Alongside my NYD journey, there’s lot of things that happened to me. Such as boarding on a plane for the first time was amazing! The rush of takeoff, the view from above (city lights and clouds) – was breathtaking. Visiting Manila, the bustling city, was overwhelming yet thrilling.

    I had also the opportunity in exploring new places – (1)Going to Intramuros, a historic walled city with rich history and cultural significance from the colonization of Spaniards. (2) The Roman Catholic Churches, such as Baclaran Church, Manila Cathedral, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish, Our Lady of Peñafrancia Parish, Naga Metropolitan Cathedral, Our Lady of Peñafrancia Minor Basilica and National Shrine and many more. (3) We went to Mall of Asia (MOA) a popular shopping and entertainment destination in Pasay City. (4) Bathing in Hot Spring in Panicuason, Naga City. It is a natural spring that emits warm or hot water. I got to eat as well some Naga special foods and delicacies, such as Bicol express, Laing, and Kinalas. 

    All in all, I’m grateful for these many firsts that i had, which have become cherished moments for me.  Those were memories that will always be remembered. They’ve shown me that life is full of possibilities and that stepping out of my comfort zone can lead to incredible growth. 

    Before I end this reflection, allow me to barrow a quote from Miss Karen Joy Caramoan, one of our resource speaker during the NYD 2025, she said, “If you are taking risk with the Lord, and for the Lord, do not be afraid.”