Open Your Hearts

Jesus was born in a manger - a trough where food for animals are placed. Not fit for the Kings.

Would it be the same then had people known that it was Jesus who would be born that evening? Definitely not. They would give the best room where Mother Mary could give birth to Our Lord.

But would it really make a difference? At least for the person who appeared to be seemingly "generous".

Probably not. This is for the simple reason that the hearts of the people were selective. They would accept Jesus if it was made known who He was and expected to be born, yet refuse the very same Jesus whose identity was not to be revealed at that point.

Today, the poor would ask for alms or food, yet they are driven away and worst, despised. People even blame the government for not doing anything. For not doing what? For not keeping them away from your sight? How dare them? What have they done anyway and by the way?

And even if they have something to give to the poor starving person, how much did they give that person? Is it enough to buy a decent food for the day? Of course, one can always rationalize that they are dummies for syndicates. Then, give them food instead of money. Give them clothes. Offer them what you would have given to Jesus, had Our Lord asked you the same.

Actually, we are not being required to do more than what we could. It is enough that we open our hearts to Jesus, welcome Him into our lives, and let His Love dwelling in us to do the rest.

Is that difficult? Pray for wisdom and understanding. Ever remember that each one of us are called upon to serve, all for the greater Honor and Glory of God.

Maligayang Pasko!

Sa araw na ito - 25 Disyembre - ating ginugunita at ipinagdiriwang ang pagsilang sa ating Panginoong Hesukristo. Sa pamamagitan ng Banal na Misa, panalangin, pagkakawang gawa, pagreregalo, pagsasalu-salo, pagbisita sa mga may sakit, naglilingkod sa simbahan, pagdarasal sa mga Banal na kaluluwa, at iba pang gawaing maka-Diyos na magmumula sa puso, naibabahagi natin ang tunay na diwa ng pasko. Wika nga kahit hindi araw ng pasko, tayo ay manatiling nagbibigayan. Ating isinasabuhay ang pagdating ng ating Panginoon sa tuwinang tayo ay gumaganap ng mga gawaing maka-Diyos. Dahil dito tama lamang na ang bawat araw ay gawing pasko.

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RESILIENCE Joshua 1:9

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."

@caloycaliwara: God is loving and merciful. He keeps us strong and truly alive. #binhingmustasa


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Be Prepared

Jesus said to his disciples:
“Gird your loins and light your lamps
and be like servants who await their master’s return from a wedding,
ready to open immediately when he comes and knocks.
Blessed are those servants
whom the master finds vigilant on his arrival.
Amen, I say to you, he will gird himself,
have them recline at table, and proceed to wait on them.
And should he come in the second or third watch
and find them prepared in this way,
blessed are those servants.” Lk 12:35-38


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Location:P. Burgos,Caloocan City,Philippines

Do Not Brag About Yourself, Let Others Praise You - Proverbs 27:2

Your character will speak for you. What you are now and what you have done will reflect on who you really are. You may have made promises which you have broken. You may have led others to believe that you will do great things. Yet, if this are not turned into actions, sincere ones, then you are nothing. You do not deserve to be praised. You can brag. Yes. But that's is all yours to feel and see, but not to cherish throughout your life. So. Be on the safe side. Leave impressions on other people. Not to yourself.






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Location:Commonwealth Avenue,Quezon City,Philippines

Saint Michael the Archangel

Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle, be our protection against the malice and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him we humbly pray; and do thou, O Prince of the Heavenly host, by the power of God, thrust into hell Satan and all evil spirits who wander through the world for the ruin of souls. Amen.

Meaningful Life, Pleasing God

Have you ever thought of pleasing God, at least during this present life? How? When? What did you do? Who benefited? But for how long? Did it change your life? What about now, are you still in that "pleasing God mode"?

Precisely.

There have been many times that you and anyone else, are in that mode. That's good and as much as possible, think of ways and moments when you can sustain it. Of course, these will be situations in-between that could intervene and disrupt your spiritual communion with God, either while working, enjoying your family time, reading a book or just alone by yourself.

So they say, these interruptions are normal. Really? Since when? Do you consider vices, excessive vanities and greed as parts of one's life? But then, during which time, what do you do? Are you enjoying that moment? In which case, it is obvious that you have renege in your promise or commitment to please God.

Then you start all over again.

What do you do when it's going to pain? You get hold of umbrella. What do you do if you need to sign something? You look for a pen. What do you do if you are hungry? You get some food and eat.

What about when you are tempted?

How do you please God? So that you can go on and deserve enjoying a meaningful life.

Pray.

It's free, its easy, and can be done at any time, any place and any situation.

Of course, prayer has to be coupled with works. With positive action.

Man Proposes, God Decides

Let's face it. When one prays for something, more often than not, we want it right away without having contemplated on what to do with it once we get what we want.

For instance, one may pray for a government position. But have you ever thought that it might be a source of temptation, a means to commit graft and corruption, and that it is a pure commitment to public service, and not a way to enrich oneself?

Would you 100% be committed all throughout to such pure and genuine public service? Will you turn down any offer of bribery? Are you sure you can do justice to every man?

What about your wish for promotion? Same banana. Will you come clean all throughout? Are you sure you have not trampled on somebody's rights?

Therefore, when one prays, he is making a proposal. If that proposal has flaws, do not expect approval right away. Make sure your proposal will be for your own good too.

God decides favorably if what is asked will be for one's own good and salvation.

Doing God's Will

"Act on this word. If all you do is listen to it, you are deceiving yourselves" (Jas 1:22).

Many times in our lives, we tend to ignore our role as God's children. How is that? We fall not once, twice or thrice, but again, many times over. When that happens, we are not hearing His Word, we are acting on His Word, we are not following His Will, and instead, we are failing and deceiving ourselves. Remember, we have everything to lose in this situation.

We are called upon to have faith, and this will entailing, not only the act of believing but also the duty to work on it. We live and make our faith works. It is not a matter of merely kneeling down and asking for the mercy of God, but it is also important that when we ask for something, like passing an exam or being promoted at work, we must review for the exam or perform well in our present job, so that in the end, we will truly deserve what we asked for. But we need to go beyond than merely asking, we have to make a commitment to do good and be good in whatever we may set out to do after getting what we want.

In that way, we do God's Will. Not ours. Not anyone else.


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Location:Quezon City,Philippines

St. Pio of Peitrelcina

Among the recent-day saints venerated by millions, St. Pio ( or Padre Pio, as some would prefer it that way) stands out in many ways. I am not saying that there is a competition here. What I am pointing out is that, through all these years, St. Pio has become a "household" topic. When one is in trouble, ask for his intercession. Somebody is sick, for for his prayers and healing. Isn't it God has given him the grace to heal the sick even when he was still alive. Problems. Ah, ask Padre Pio and he will help you find a way.

In other words, through St. Pio, we have all the more recognized, realized and felt the love of God, the mercy of God and the power of God. We become closer to the Church, and thus, we are so sure of ourselves and our faith. That is, we are weak without God, and with God All things are possible.

After having watched in video the life of St. Pio, and having read some of his writings, I can say truthfully, that here is a man whose faith is just so firm and unshakeable that no one can even imagine St. Pio turning his back away from the faith, from God.

He is candid, frank and direct to the point. I never met him. I never talked to him. I never so him personally. I have never been to San Giovanni Redondo. But, why is it that he is so near me and my family. He seems to be watching over us.

I am sure that God has given all of us the grace to believe. In doing so, we get to have an experience that only faith can bring and make it happen.

Let us pray then for continued guidance and may the devotion to St. Pio increase all the more.

Among the recent-day saints venerated by millions, St. Pio ( or Padre Pio, as some would prefer it that way) stands out in many ways. I am not saying that there is a competition here. What I am pointing out is that, through all these years, St. Pio has become a "household" topic. When one is in trouble, ask for his intercession. Somebody is sick, for for his prayers and healing. Isn't it God has given him the grace to heal the sick even when he was still alive. Problems. Ah, ask Padre Pio and he will help you find a way.

In other words, through St. Pio, we have all the more recognized, realized and felt the love of God, the mercy of God and the power of God. We become closer to the Church, and thus, we are so sure of ourselves and our faith. That is, we are weak without God, and with God All things are possible.

After having watched in video the life of St. Pio, and having read some of his writings, I can say truthfully, that here is a man whose faith is just so firm and unshakeable that no one can even imagine St. Pio turning his back away from the faith, from God.

He is candid, frank and direct to the point. I never met him. I never talked to him. I never so him personally. I have never been to San Giovanni Redondo. But, why is it that he is so near me and my family. He seems to be watching over us.

I am sure that God has given all of us the grace to believe. In doing so, we get to have an experience that only faith can bring and make it happen.

Let us pray then for continued guidance and may the devotion to St. Pio increase all the more.


- Posted from my iPad

Location:Dona Julia Vargas Ave.,Mandaluyong City,Philippines

Faith

@caloycaliwara: If you have faith, why doubt? Believe firmly then, without reservation.


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The Divine Mercy Devotion

We invite you to join us in this Devotion. The Novena is now being prayed until April 6. The Feast of the Divine Mercy will be on April 7.Excerpts from the website, read on...

"Devotion to The Divine Mercy involves a total commitment to God as Mercy. It is a decision to trust completely in Him, to accept His mercy with thanksgiving, and to be merciful as He is merciful.

The devotional practices proposed in the diary of Saint Faustina and set forth in this website : (Pls click this link)

http://www.ewtn.com/Devotionals/mercy/index.htm

are completely in accordance with the teachings of the Church and are firmly rooted in the Gospel message of our Merciful Savior. Properly understood and implemented, they will help us grow as genuine followers of Christ."

Fourteenth Station

JESUS IS LAID IN THE TOMB

My Lord Jesus Christ you human and divine. Indeed, human as you have willed yourself to be, that in itself is humility in your divinity. And who are we then not to learn humility which is the beginning of humanity. As you are laid in the tomb, it can be said that IT IS ACCOMPLISHED. Yes, God's will has been done. Amen.

Fourteenth Church Visit - Hearts of Jesus and Mary at West Triangle, Quezon City

Thirteenth Station

JESUS IS LAID IN THE ARMS OF HIS BLESSED MOTHER

Lord Jesus, as when everyone, except for a few, has expressed fear, Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus are not afraid to stand up for you. They took you down from the Holy Cross and laid you in the loving arms of your Blessed Mother. But why the Blessed Mother. The cause of the downfall of humanity was Eve, who was responsible for the temptation of Adam to eat the forbidden fruit. When Christ died on the Holy Cross, it was the triumph that has been longed for. And the Blessed Mother, being the new Eve would offer such victory to the Heavenly Father. Amen.

Thirteenth Church Visit - Sto. Domingo Church in Quezon City

Twelfth Station

JESUS DIES ON THE CROSS

My Lord and My Savior, My Christ and My Redeemer, My Jesus, you have died on the cross because of the many sins and transgressions we have committed against you. With 5,745 wounds which you have sustained, with the cross weighing about 300 pounds on your shoulder alone, with the thousands steps you took on your way up to Calvary, with the crown of thorns, lashes, blows and kicks, falls and the weight of the cross on your body, and finally the nails on your hands and feet, as well as the lance that pierced your body, WHO AMONG US HAS THE COURAGE TO STEP FORWARD AND TAKE YOUR PLACE? We are truly and deeply humbled prostrated on the ground, as we asked for your mercy and forgiveness. All in your Most Holy Name, Amen.

Reflections : Taking Up The Burden

No words will ever suffice to express what Christ has gone through to deserve and to actually suffer death on the cross. The pains, the injuries, and the sufferings He endured for all of us, are just too much to bear. No other could do what He did. No one can ever take His place. Therefore, among the little things that we can do is to be grateful for what Christ has done.

Twelfth Church Visit - St. Paul, The Apostle

Seven Last Words

Luke 23:34: Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.

Luke 23:43: Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.

John 19:26-27: Woman, behold your son. Behold your mother.

Matthew 27:46: My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?

John 19:28: I am thirsty.

John 19:30: It is... finished.

Luke 23:46: Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.

Traditionally, these seven sayings are called words of

1. Forgiveness

2. Salvation

3. Relationship

4. Abandonment

5. Distress

6. Reunion

7. Triumph

Source /Painting : http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Brooklyn_Museum_-_What_Our_Lord_Saw_from_the_Cross_(Ce_que_voyait_Notre-Seigneur_sur_la_Croix)_-_James_Tissot.jpg#mw-mf-search

Source / Sayings : http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sayings_of_Jesus_on_the_cross#section_1

Reflections : Reliability

Being nailed down to the cross is really something. We know that Christ as God was not expecting any help from the people around Him. Of course, He knows that, for sure, Our Blessed Mother, if only she could run to Him and help Him out, would definitely go to Him, prevent the nails from piercing His human hands com feet, and lift Him up to Her arms. Yet, under such condition and then situation, plus the fact that Christ must fulfill His mission, she prayed with all her might, and mighty indeed as the Mother of God.

Do we do this even as a favor to others? Meaning, really and sincerely? Or do we just say it and do nothing at all? Thus, the question is - where were you when someone was is need?
 

Eleventh Station

JESUS IS NAILED ON THE CROSS

Lord Jesus, My Savior, this is the time when you know who are with you and those who are not. Many among us and in our own lives - we do encounter problems, serious enough, as to drive away people from us. During happy times, they are near. During trying times, they are nowhere to be seen or heard. A little prayer may suffice, yet we do not know if they are really praying for us. We are also guilty of the same weakness ourselves. There are those whom we should be helping out but we did not extend our hands to them. Is it our of fear? Just like when you were being nailed on the cross, there may be those who followed you but on account of fear that they too may be nailed on the cross, have chosen to keep silent about they presence and what they feel about what was being done to you. Or is it just because we are indifferent to the plight of others, just like when we continue committing sins unmindful of your goodness, greatness and generosity. Teach us then Lord to be humble and be sincere in our ways so that when the time comes for us to help other people, we would not hesitate to do so, not because of as a mere obligation but more on the fact that we love you so much Lord. Amen.

Eleventh Church Visit - Shrine of Jesus, The Divine Word in Kristong Hari, Quezon City

Reflections : Reparation

The very essence of reconciling with God is the process of examining our conscience, confessing our sins, being repentant and remorseful, making amends or repairing the damage done. These could take many forms depending on the circumstances. What is important should be that deep in our hearts, there is absolute sincerity and unconditional intention to really go through that process, act them out without delay and receive the graces and blessings of the Sacraments.

But, yes there is a but. Remember that Christ has commanded to love thy neighbor. This calls for charity to primarily benefit others, the victims of injustice, the weak and the oppressed. How often do we heed this call?

Tenth Station

JESUS CLOTHES ARE TAKEN AWAY

My Lord Jesus, have mercy on us! Being stripped of your clothes is certainly deplorable. It is not only humiliating but it has added insult to injury. The soldiers are ruthless. They are gamblers which placed at stake your clothes on a winner take all basis. Terrible indeed. Many people today are stripped of what remains in them by those who have taken advantage of the weaknesses of such people. We pray that those who fall victims to these people would be able to recover and stand up, as always, for what is true and what is necessary. Amen.

Tenth Church Visit - Sacred Heart of Jesus in Kamuning, Quezon City

Reflections : Hope

We could no longer describe in human terms the sufferings of Christ. The Spirit is willing but His human body is just so weak. Yet, His third fall did not deter Him from moving on. He was in effect showing us that there is hope - notwithstanding the odds. Remember, with God, nothing is impossible.

Ninth Station

JESUS FALLS A THIRD TIME

Oh Lord Jesus Christ, the cross is obviously heavier now than the first time you had to carry it. I can only imagine the world today so much of a burden to you and yet, you continue to bring us to the road of salvation, you keep on carrying the cross, without let up. You have been obedient to the Almighty Father and had pleased Him so much by not giving up. As for us, we are easily discouraged by failures, and we tend to stop trying, or cease from even trying to try. We should not be prevented, by ourselves, from pursuing something which is noble and even Divine. We should not lose hope. We must constantly pray and ask for guidance, in order that - if ever we fall for the third or nth time – we may continue to move and fight for the many battles in our lives. Amen.

Ninth Church Visit - St. Pio Chapel in Libis, Quezon City

Reflections : Love

At this point, it is important to note that the Passion, the Stations of the Cross, and the Death of Christ are all about the Divine Love expressed, manifested, shown and deeply made felt to all through Our Lord Jesus Christ. Just to emphasize - truly, we are not worthy that Our Lord would enter under our roof, and yet, He has provided every means by which He Himself would continue to touch us and our lives, no matter how stubborn, careless and sinful we may be. There is always another chance.

In the same light that we must extend our charitable hearts to all whom God has blessed.

Eighth Station

JESUS MEETS THE WOMEN OF JERUSALEM

Jesus, as you carry your cross you see a group of women along the road. As you pass by you see they are sad. You stop to spend a moment with them, to offer them some encouragement. Although you are have been abandoned by your friends and are in pain, you stop and try to help them.

As a child, sometimes I think a lot about myself. I think about what I want and would like people to spend their lives pleasing me.

As an adult, sometimes I act like a child. I become so absorbed in myself and what I'd like that I forget about the needs of others. I take them for granted, and often ignore their needs.

Help me think more about others. Help me remembers that others have problems, too. Help me respond to them even when I'm busy or preoccupied with my own problems.

My Jesus, Who didst comfort the pious women of Jerusalem who wept to see Thee bruised and torn, comfort my soul with Thy tender pity, for in Thy pity lies my trust. May my heart ever answer Thine.

Source : http://www.catholic.org/clife/prayers/station.php?id=8

Eighth Church Visit - Our Lady of Mount Carmel in New Manila, Quezon City

Reflections : Perseverance

When Christ took up His extremely heavy cross after being clobbered, wounded, mocked at and ridiculed almost to death, He is perfectly aware of His Divine Role and Divine Purpose. Despite the difficulties, hardships, and extremely excruciating and paralyzing pain and serious injuries,  Our Lord did not fail to disappoint his accusers and the unruly crowd. Somehow, many among them would want Him dead on the spot where he would once again fall for the second time. The motive is clear and that is to disprove the prophesy about the crucifixion and thereafter His rising from the dead. Well, history and our faith have proven them wrong.

Take up your cross and do not give up. Focus on Christ. In the end, you will realize that indeed, He has always been there for you. That way, the unbelievers are again proven wrong.

Seventh Station

JESUS FALLS THE SECOND TIME

My Lord, My Jesus and Savior. You are extremely exhausted already. The cross is heavier and more difficult to carry. The pain is just so intense. The soldiers are cruel. The crowd, even more mean and ferocious. The weight of the cross was just too much to bear. You fell for the second time.

But the reasons, no matter how valid they may be, and would justify that your giving up, did not deter you from getting up and continue carrying the cross on your way to calvary.

Teach us Lord to do the same. As we fall, many times actually, help us to stand up once again and move on to our life's journey. We know that without you, we are nothing. Without you, we cannot do anything. Be our strength. Amen.

Seventh Church Visit - San Agustin Church, Intramuros, Manila

Reflections : Humility

We learned what helping and giving must entail. We learned that every moment should be offered in prayers. But how do we do it? By being arrogant, boastful, showy and self-righteous? Of course not. Many among us have given up our humble side and instead we gave in to our pride and yes, of being proud. Not a single world to give credit to God for what we have.

Veronica was humble enough to approach Christ. She was fearless and unmindful of what others might say. She opened up her heart to at least give Our Lord even a moment of relief from what He has been going through. 
Are we humble enough to pause from our busy lifestyle, retreat from the worldly convenience and then calmly allow God to talk to us in silence? We really need to be humble to do this. We need to wipe out our own inequities and transgressions. We must do acts of reparation and reconcile ourselves with God's goodness and generosity. Ah, we need to be humble to do this.

Pray then for the grace of humility and do so with a contrite heart.

Sixth Station

VERONICA WIPES THE FACE OF JESUS

Oh my Lord Jesus, it was just a piece of cloth wiped on your face of Jesus, with blood and sweat dripping. Through such very small way, you are pleased. Veronica knows it is the only thing that she can do if only to ease up your sufferings and pains.

What about each one of us? Do we give our share to ease up the burden of Christ? Do we offer ourselves for him? Do we work and do things to help others who are in need?

There have been many times that we have thought of giving ourselves a break, or demanding some space for ourselves. We feel that we deserve better, or we need to have some more of what we already have, never contented of anything. We always think of ourselves and forget the fact that we must also think of others. Yet, we still have the gull to ask a lot of things through our prayers. Is this the right attitude? Is this the life that we lead and live? Well, it is time. Time to change. Time to be what you want you to be. Like Veronica, we need to have the humility of meeting you personally and in our own little way, do something that will ease up your agony, sufferings, sacrifices, among others. In doing so, we do not expect any reward but at the same time, we will not refuse the blessings that will come our way, and in everything and in anything, we shall always thanks and praise God for his overflowing generosity. Amen.

Sixth Church Visit - Our Lady of Remedies in Malate Manila

Reflections : Giving and Helping

Blessings may come in trickles or in bulk. They may pour like rain. They may gush forth as if the floodgates of mercy have been opened. And when you receive these gifts from God, what do you do?

We know very well that God cannot be outdone in generosity. We are experts in receiving but many times our senses are closed in giving. We become blind, deaf and mute. While it is true that we help and we give, but only if there is an excess, or if we need something in return. Otherwise, it is a one way traffic.

What God has given, He can take it away. Honestly, it is better to give without counting and with all your heart than to receive.

Fifth Station

JESUS IS HELPED TO CARRY THE CROSS

My Lord Jesus Christ, I know that you do not need any help but amidst the humiliation that you have suffered from the hands of your persecutors, you have been humble enough to allow, a reluctant Simon of Cyrene to carry your cross. You have shown to us Lord that indeed "no man is an island". That we live, not only for ourselves, but for our family and the people of God. That we have a responsibility to help others and to make sure that those who are in need are provided with what is necessary and which we can give as God has allowed us to. I have pleaded many times for help and you have not abandoned me. In many ways, you have answered my prayers. There were many times that I never realized that you have given me so many blessings and I was not even grateful. I can actually help carry the cross by heeding the call for me to serve God and in everything that I do, I must see to it that He is glorified and praised. Amen.

Fifth Church Visit - Shrine of Jesus, The Way, The Truth and The Life at MOA in Pasay City

Reflections : Caring

How many among us have really cared for loved ones? Or how many have shown compassion for the poor, the oppressed, the downtrodden, the weak and the helpless?

Are we selfish or selfless? Caring or careless? Loving or indifferent? Sinner or saint?

Simple questions. But why is it so difficult for us to answer. Always with ifs and buts. Always with a qualification.

Why not make it unconditional? Just like what Our Blessed Mother has done for the Love of Jesus.

Fourth Station

JESUS MEETS HIS MOTHER

My Lord Jesus, you were all alone by yourself, as you continue to suffer from the weight of the cross, the thousands of wounds inflicted upon you, and as blood flows down from your body and from your head. For sure, you were already grasping for your breath, dehydrated from lack of water, famished for not having taken anything for the day since you were taken forcibly at the Garden of Gethsemane. This is a terrible situation and ordinary humans will certainly not be able to endure and survive these hardships, sufferings, and agony. Yet, here comes the Blessed Mother, who have shown herself to you, if only to assure you that she is by your side, together with the Father in Heaven. Though you don't need any assurance, our Blessed Mother has done what her bleeding and crying heart has told her to do – to be a mother, to care, to love, and as much as she wanted to but cannot, to suffer for you, her son, to take your place. How many among us would be willing to do what the Blessed Mother has done? In our world, at the present time, we seldom see people who would be willing to share what they have, or at the least, just to be honest, just be to good, just to be fair, just to be the man created in the image of God. We thank the Blessed Mother for being there with you as she is now for us. Amen.

Fourth Church Visit - Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Baclaran

O Mother of Perpetual Help, grant that I may ever invoke thy most powerful name, which is the safeguard of the living and the salvation of the dying. O Purest Mary, O Sweetest Mary, let thy name henceforth be ever on my lips. Delay not, O Blessed Lady, to help me whenever I call on thee, for, in all my needs, in all my temptations I shall never cease to call on thee, ever repeating thy sacred name, Mary, Mary.

O what consolation, what sweetness, what confidence, what emotion fill my soul when I pronounce thy sacred name, or even only think of thee. I thank God for having given thee, for my good, so sweet, so powerful, so lovely a name. But I will not be content with merely pronouncing thy name: let my love for thee prompt me ever to hail thee, Mother of Perpetual Help.

Source : http://www.ewtn.com/devotionals/prayers/perpet3.htm

Reflections : Resiliency

Do not give up. Let the Lord, light up your path. All you need to have is faith. Sometimes, well, many times, you are so preoccupied with yourself, your career, your business, your pleasures, your vacation, your reputation, your image, your survival, your wealth, ad infinitum. You failed to seek God's blessings and protection. Then you stumble by committing human mistakes, human sins and human failures. You forgot the Divine that will carry you, lift you up, guide you through, and protect you from harm and evil.

So pick up the pieces. Stand up. Look ahead and make sure that this time, you will focus on Christ. This is true and genuine resiliency.

Light Up Our Path

Third Station

JESUS FALLS THE FIRST TIME

My Lord and My God, My Savior , My Redeemer, Oh Lord Jesus. Forgive me. I mean it. From the very bottom of my heart. Had it not been for me, you would not have fallen from the sheer weight of that heavy cross that bears my sins. I don't think I could even last carrying the cross before a first fall, but because you are My Lord, you have made sure that I would be able to carry my own cross. I now know why I was able to – because you were carrying me and my cross. Well, the bottomline is that I must carry on with whatever good things I may have started in my life and with my life. I should not be giving up and I ought to realize that there will always be a first time, and that first time must never discourage me to carry on. There may be obstacles, frustrations, disappointments, discouragement or whatever damn-if-you-do situations, but I must always bear in mind and in my heart that Jesus will always be with me, and I can truly feel His Holy Presence, unworthy as I am, for He loves me, and He wants me to succeed ! Amen.

Reflections : Duty

We are called upon to fulfill our duty. First to God. Second to Our Country. Third to Our Family. But come to think of it, our duty to God is to fulfill the most important commandment, and that is "Love Our Neighbor". And of course, the closest being the members of our families. On the other hand, the basic social unit of our country is the family, which is regarded as an institution. From it, a nation is formed. So, it seems, and so it is certain indeed that fulfilling one's duty to the family is in essence, fulfilling one's duty to God and to country.

As we fulfill our duty to our family, we need to also carry out our duty to self. Taking care of our health. Not putting ourselves in danger or not taking any precautions lest we commit the sin of omission. Doing our everyday work with love and dedication. Offering each moment in prayers that we may obtain abundant blessings.

Yes, we may experience pain and difficulties as we go along the way. But our faith will guide as through. We shall overcome and truly, at the end of the day, emerge victorious in Jesus' Most Holy Name.

Second Station

JESUS CARRIES THE CROSS

Oh My Lord Jesus Christ, how heavy indeed is the cross which you have been made to carry on your shoulders. That cross is actually this world ! The sins of men ! The transgressions and ungratefulness of humanity ! And to think that all these continue up to this day as you bear them, every moment, on your shoulders. Yet, and yes, yet, many among us would not even want to carry the little crosses that come our way. We always want to be within our respective comfort level. What a shame?! What really is that cross that I have always been to told to carry? Is it the same cross that you carried all the way up to the Calvary, to your death? Uh Oh. I think, not even a bit or fragment of that cross could be carried by me. Not even a breath that comes out of it. The cross of my life refers to myself, my iniquities, my sins, my forgetfulness, my carelessness, my lack of faith, and being a Christian and yet, I refuse to face each and every of these bits (or even one or two) of my own cross. Maybe because, I am afraid of problems; or I do not even try to carry my cross because of my fear of failure, that I may not be able to bring it up to my own Calvary. Well, wake up, you will not be nailed if you carry your cross. That cross, your cross, is actually a millionth fragment of the tiniest dust found in Jesus' cross, and all you need to do is do your part in not being an additional burden for Christ. Be a solution, not a problem. Amen.

Reflections : Justice

The majority was not right. It was a crowd actually. The judge was a coward and too ambitious to be just. An innocent man was tortured, ridiculed, mocked, condemned and sentenced to death. He suffered more than five thousand four hundred wounds including the Five Holy Wounds.

Is it not true that this is repeated everyday now? And frequently. Within us and all around us.

Think of the number of times when we judge others? Only to find out we were wrong.

How many among us, have had the courage and the charity to give alms to the poor? And how many among us have hid ourselves behind the veil of pretensions?

Have we considered speaking up for truth when lies are scattered all over but we kept silent for fear of reprisal or being outcast?

When will we stop being happy about the miseries of our enemies?

It is time to deeply embrace Christ and be the first to defend Him. There is nothing to fear. We have everything to gain. Do it for the Honor and Glory of God.

First Station

JESUS IS CONDEMNED TO DEATH

Oh Lord Jesus, you have been a victim of the cruelty of man. Pontius Pilate was not only indecisive, he was also a coward. He allowed himself to be pressured by a mob. He could not take responsibility and would not own what he did on that day when you were condemned to death. He made actually a fun of himself. You were alone. Some would want to stand up for you but there was not much strength in terms of numbers. The majority was not right when you were condemned. They were moved by evil motives and evil designs. As I read and listen to news reports nowadays, the injustices and atrocities have not ceased. Many have been condemned and only to find out later that the person was innocent of the crime charged. Many have experienced death by way of curtailment of their freedom to live as human beings. Poverty, hunger, human trafficking, drug and substance abuse, violence against women and children, among other and similar crimes and offenses. The victims are virtually condemned to death since in the end – how they wished they were dead, how they wished they were not born, how they wished that the world would end. Perhaps. Well, actually my own weaknesses, my own sinfulness have condemned you to death. But there is still time and as I walked through with you and contemplate on the stations of the cross, I am truly thankful to you Lord Jesus for this opportunity, as I pray for those victims, who, like what you have gone through when you were condemned to death, are now suffering and languishing in their present state of life. I lift them up to you and may they be blessed with your generosity and goodness. Amen.

The Confessional

The Sacrament of Reconciliation is a very important sacrament. Man was separated from God due to his sins. But God is so great and good that He gave us the opportunity to be reconciled with Him. Hence, Christ died on the cross because, precisely and to reiterate, God wants us to be reconciled with Him. Christ told His disciples to forgive sins. And thus when the Catholic Church was built on the Rock, St. Peter and Christ's apostles, and succeeded by present day Catholic priests have continuously heard confessions and as Christ has instructed them to do, gave absolution.

The photo shows how the Sacrament is given prominence and importance. The confessional box is so elaborate and presented in a manner that one who goes to confession should feel welcome and cared for. This is at the Barasoain Church.

Holy Images at Barasoain Church

The Historic Barasoain Church

Immaculate Conception Parish - Cathedral and Minor Basilica, Diocese of Malolos, Bulacan

Blessed by the opportunity to go on a Holy Week pilgrimage, these photos were taken at the Parish of Immaculate Conception in Malolos, Bulacan.

The Jubilee Cross

Shown is the Jubilee Cross where the Holy Relic of the Holy Cross has been enshrined. Also, posted is the Prayer before the Crucifix. Veneration continues at Greenbelt's Sto. Nino Chapel in Makati City.

" Woman, behold thy son. Son, behold thy mother."

1st Point - Oh sweet and merciful Jesus, couldst thou not have spared thy tender and sorrowful Mother the pain of seeing thee suffer and die ! What had she done that she must take part in thy sacrifice, and witness the agony that she could neither reieve nor soothe? What greater pain could have been inflicted on her, than to be obliged to stand by and behold her only Son expiring in such cruel torments ? What greater grief for thee than to die in the presence of thy desolate and afflicted Mother ? What mother is comparable to MARY ? What son comparable to Jesus ? What tortures comparable to those of the cross ?

2nd Point - God desired that the holy Virgin should be at the foot of the cross, and, by the sacrifice of her only Son, co-operate in our redemption, by offering to the Almighty Father that which was most precious and dear to her, to repair thereby the fault of Eve, who caused our loss; to increase the grief of her Son, by her presence; to bear part in his sorrows; to drink of his chalice; to become the Queen of martyrs, of whom her Son was the King; to be as he was, crowned with opprobriums and ignominies; to receive all the predestined who were given to her in ,the person of the beloved disciple, and to be declared their mother by these words: Woman, behold thy son. Son, behold thy mother."

3rd Point - Mary endured all that Jesus suffered. The sword that entered his sacred side pierced her afflicted soul. The wounds that disfigured his flesh filled hers with suffering inconceivable. The stripes that had lacerated him were imprinted in her heart.

The martyrs suffered in their bodies, Mary suffered in her soul; the martyrs suffered in their criminal flesh, Mary suffered in the innocent flesh of her Son. The hearts of the martyrs were filled with joy, and the heart of Mary with desolation. Love diminished the pangs of the martyrs; love increased the pangs of Mary. Can she not truly say: There is no grief comparable to mine ?

Written by an 'Anonymous' Jesuit Priest in England in the 19th century... Please share with friends..

Source : https://m.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10152692839760584&id=391483840583&set=a.417710570583.376958.391483840583&user=100000219897043#!/photo.php?fbid=10152690779975584&id=391483840583&set=a.417710570583.376958.391483840583&user=100000219897043

Do Not Let Hope Be Stolen! Homily of Pope Francis on Palm/Passion Sunday

Never give way to discouragement! Ours is not a joy born of having many possessions, but from having encountered a Person: Jesus, in our midst; it is born from knowing that with him we are never alone, even at difficult moments, even when our life's journey comes up against problems and obstacles that seem insurmountable, and there are so many of them! And in this moment the enemy, the devil, comes, often disguised as an angel, and slyly speaks his word to us. Do not listen to him! Let us follow Jesus! We accompany, we follow Jesus, but above all we know that he accompanies us and carries us on his shoulders. This is our joy, this is the hope that we must bring to this world. Please do not let yourselves be robbed of hope! Do not let hope be stolen! The hope that Jesus gives us.

Source : http://www.catholic.org/clife/lent/story.php?id=50250

LINGGO NG PALASPAS

Naku ganyan naman talaga ang tao. Sa ngayon, abot langit ang pagpuri, ngunit sa oras ng pighati at kahirapan, nasaan sila? Sa kasiyahan, halos hindi ka makahinga sa karamihan ng nakikipagdiwang sa iyo. Sa kalungkutan, mabibilang mo ang talagang nakikiramay. Sa mga sandali ng pangangailangan, manikluhod na nagmamakaawa. Kapag nakuha na ang nais, aba! sino ka nga ba?

Masaklap ngunit iyan ang katotohanan. Minsan ay nakakapanglumo pa nga. Ugali nga naman. Hay buhay!

Ngayon ay Semana Santa na. Nasaan ka? Beach? Parties? Bakasyunan? Abroad? 

Ok lang ba yon?. 

Saan ka man naroroon, huwag mong kakalimutan na doon ka mananampalataya, magdarasal, mangingilin, magsisisi at sasamba sa ating Panginoon.

Samahan natin ang ating Panginoon sa kaniyang pagsasakripisyo upang tayo ay kaniyang iligtas sa kasalanan at sa bandang huli'y maging karapat-dapat na kapiling ng Poong Maykapal.

Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord (Gospel : LK 22:14—23:56)

  When the hour came,
Jesus took his place at table with the apostles.
He said to them, 
"I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer,
for, I tell you, I shall not eat it again 
until there is fulfillment in the kingdom of God."
  Then he took a cup, gave thanks, and said, 
"Take this and share it among yourselves; 
for I tell you that from this time on 
I shall not drink of the fruit of the vine 
until the kingdom of God comes."
Then he took the bread, said the blessing,
  broke it, and gave it to them, saying, 
"This is my body, which will be given for you; 
do this in memory of me."
And likewise the cup after they had eaten, saying, 
"This cup is the new covenant in my blood,
  which will be shed for you.

"And yet behold, the hand of the one who is to betray me
is with me on the table; 
for the Son of Man indeed goes as it has been determined;
but woe to that man by whom he is betrayed."
  And they began to debate among themselves 
who among them would do such a deed.

Then an argument broke out among them
about which of them should be regarded as the greatest.
He said to them,
"The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them 
  and those in authority over them are addressed as 'Benefactors'; 
but among you it shall not be so.
Rather, let the greatest among you be as the youngest, 
and the leader as the servant.
For who is greater: 
  the one seated at table or the one who serves?
Is it not the one seated at table?
I am among you as the one who serves.
It is you who have stood by me in my trials;
and I confer a kingdom on you, 
just as my Father has conferred one on me, 
  that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom; 
and you will sit on thrones
judging the twelve tribes of Israel.

"Simon, Simon, behold Satan has demanded
to sift all of you like wheat,
but I have prayed that your own faith may not fail; 
  and once you have turned back,
you must strengthen your brothers."
He said to him,
"Lord, I am prepared to go to prison and to die with you."
But he replied,
"I tell you, Peter, before the cock crows this day,
  you will deny three times that you know me."

He said to them,
"When I sent you forth without a money bag or a sack or sandals,
were you in need of anything?"
"No, nothing, " they replied.
He said to them,
  "But now one who has a money bag should take it,
and likewise a sack, 
and one who does not have a sword
should sell his cloak and buy one.
For I tell you that this Scripture must be fulfilled in me,
namely, He was counted among the wicked;
  and indeed what is written about me is coming to fulfillment."
Then they said,
"Lord, look, there are two swords here."
But he replied, "It is enough!"

Then going out, he went, as was his custom, to the Mount of Olives,
  and the disciples followed him.
When he arrived at the place he said to them, 
"Pray that you may not undergo the test."
After withdrawing about a stone's throw from them and kneeling,
he prayed, saying, "Father, if you are willing, 
  take this cup away from me; 
still, not my will but yours be done."
And to strengthen him an angel from heaven appeared to him.
He was in such agony and he prayed so fervently 
that his sweat became like drops of blood
  falling on the ground.
When he rose from prayer and returned to his disciples, 
he found them sleeping from grief.
He said to them, "Why are you sleeping?
Get up and pray that you may not undergo the test."
  
While he was still speaking, a crowd approached 
and in front was one of the Twelve, a man named Judas.
He went up to Jesus to kiss him.
Jesus said to him, 
"Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?"
  His disciples realized what was about to happen, and they asked, 
"Lord, shall we strike with a sword?"
And one of them struck the high priest's servant
and cut off his right ear.
But Jesus said in reply,
"Stop, no more of this!"
  Then he touched the servant's ear and healed him.
And Jesus said to the chief priests and temple guards 
and elders who had come for him, 
"Have you come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs?
Day after day I was with you in the temple area,
  and you did not seize me;
but this is your hour, the time for the power of darkness."

After arresting him they led him away 
and took him into the house of the high priest; 
Peter was following at a distance.
  They lit a fire in the middle of the courtyard and sat around it,
and Peter sat down with them.
When a maid saw him seated in the light, 
she looked intently at him and said,
"This man too was with him."
But he denied it saying,
  "Woman, I do not know him."
A short while later someone else saw him and said, 
"You too are one of them"; 
but Peter answered, "My friend, I am not."
About an hour later, still another insisted, 
"Assuredly, this man too was with him,
  for he also is a Galilean."
But Peter said,
"My friend, I do not know what you are talking about."
Just as he was saying this, the cock crowed,
and the Lord turned and looked at Peter; 
and Peter remembered the word of the Lord,
  how he had said to him,
"Before the cock crows today, you will deny me three times."
He went out and began to weep bitterly.
The men who held Jesus in custody were ridiculing and beating him.
They blindfolded him and questioned him, saying, 
  "Prophesy! Who is it that struck you?"
And they reviled him in saying many other things against him.

When day came the council of elders of the people met, 
both chief priests and scribes, 
and they brought him before their Sanhedrin.
  They said, "If you are the Christ, tell us, " 
but he replied to them, "If I tell you, you will not believe, 
and if I question, you will not respond.
But from this time on the Son of Man will be seated 
at the right hand of the power of God."
  They all asked, "Are you then the Son of God?"
He replied to them, "You say that I am."
Then they said, "What further need have we for testimony?
We have heard it from his own mouth."

Then the whole assembly of them arose and brought him before Pilate.
  They brought charges against him, saying, 
"We found this man misleading our people; 
he opposes the payment of taxes to Caesar 
and maintains that he is the Christ, a king."
Pilate asked him, "Are you the king of the Jews?"
  He said to him in reply, "You say so."
Pilate then addressed the chief priests and the crowds, 
"I find this man not guilty."
But they were adamant and said, 
"He is inciting the people with his teaching throughout all Judea,
  from Galilee where he began even to here."

On hearing this Pilate asked if the man was a Galilean; 
and upon learning that he was under Herod's jurisdiction,
he sent him to Herod who was in Jerusalem at that time.
  Herod was very glad to see Jesus; 
he had been wanting to see him for a long time,
for he had heard about him 
and had been hoping to see him perform some sign.
He questioned him at length,
but he gave him no answer.
  The chief priests and scribes, meanwhile,
stood by accusing him harshly.
Herod and his soldiers treated him contemptuously and mocked him,
and after clothing him in resplendent garb, 
he sent him back to Pilate.
  Herod and Pilate became friends that very day, 
even though they had been enemies formerly.
Pilate then summoned the chief priests, the rulers, and the people 
and said to them, "You brought this man to me
and accused him of inciting the people to revolt.
  I have conducted my investigation in your presence 
and have not found this man guilty 
of the charges you have brought against him, 
nor did Herod, for he sent him back to us.
So no capital crime has been committed by him.
  Therefore I shall have him flogged and then release him."

But all together they shouted out, 
"Away with this man!
Release Barabbas to us."
— Now Barabbas had been imprisoned for a rebellion 
that had taken place in the city and for murder. —
  Again Pilate addressed them, still wishing to release Jesus,
but they continued their shouting,
"Crucify him! Crucify him!"
Pilate addressed them a third time,
"What evil has this man done?
I found him guilty of no capital crime.
  Therefore I shall have him flogged and then release him."
With loud shouts, however,
they persisted in calling for his crucifixion,
and their voices prevailed.
The verdict of Pilate was that their demand should be granted.
  So he released the man who had been imprisoned
for rebellion and murder, for whom they asked,
and he handed Jesus over to them to deal with as they wished.

As they led him away
they took hold of a certain Simon, a Cyrenian, 
  who was coming in from the country; 
and after laying the cross on him, 
they made him carry it behind Jesus.
A large crowd of people followed Jesus, 
including many women who mourned and lamented him.
Jesus turned to them and said, 
  "Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me; 
weep instead for yourselves and for your children 
for indeed, the days are coming when people will say, 
'Blessed are the barren,
the wombs that never bore
and the breasts that never nursed.'
  At that time people will say to the mountains,
'Fall upon us!'
and to the hills, 'Cover us!'
for if these things are done when the wood is green 
what will happen when it is dry?"
Now two others, both criminals,
  were led away with him to be executed.

When they came to the place called the Skull, 
they crucified him and the criminals there, 
one on his right, the other on his left.
Then Jesus said,
"Father, forgive them, they know not what they do."
  They divided his garments by casting lots.
The people stood by and watched; 
the rulers, meanwhile, sneered at him and said, 
"He saved others, let him save himself 
if he is the chosen one, the Christ of God."
  Even the soldiers jeered at him.
As they approached to offer him wine they called out,
"If you are King of the Jews, save yourself."
Above him there was an inscription that read, 
"This is the King of the Jews."
  
Now one of the criminals hanging there reviled Jesus, saying,
"Are you not the Christ?
Save yourself and us."
The other, however, rebuking him, said in reply,
"Have you no fear of God,
for you are subject to the same condemnation?
  And indeed, we have been condemned justly,
for the sentence we received corresponds to our crimes, 
but this man has done nothing criminal."
Then he said,
"Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom."
  He replied to him,
"Amen, I say to you, 
today you will be with me in Paradise."

It was now about noon and darkness came over the whole land
until three in the afternoon
because of an eclipse of the sun.
  Then the veil of the temple was torn down the middle.
Jesus cried out in a loud voice, 
"Father, into your hands I commend my spirit"; 
and when he had said this he breathed his last.

Here all kneel and pause for a short time.
  
The centurion who witnessed what had happened glorified God and said,
"This man was innocent beyond doubt."
When all the people who had gathered for this spectacle saw what had happened,
they returned home beating their breasts;
  but all his acquaintances stood at a distance, 
including the women who had followed him from Galilee 
and saw these events.
Now there was a virtuous and righteous man named Joseph who,
though he was a member of the council, 
  had not consented to their plan of action.
He came from the Jewish town of Arimathea 
and was awaiting the kingdom of God.
He went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus.
After he had taken the body down, 
  he wrapped it in a linen cloth
and laid him in a rock-hewn tomb
in which no one had yet been buried.
It was the day of preparation,
and the sabbath was about to begin.
The women who had come from Galilee with him followed behind, 
  and when they had seen the tomb 
and the way in which his body was laid in it, 
they returned and prepared spices and perfumed oils.
Then they rested on the sabbath according to the commandment.

  Source : http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/032413.cfm

Does Faith Mixed With Evil?

A very basic question with a very obvious and only answer - No.

You do not pray for evil. You only pray for what is good. But who determines what is good and what is evil. You must of course know better.
We are one in saying that God has already given us the tablet where the commandments have been written. Eleven to be exact which include the commandment to Love.

That would be a good start.

HABEMUS PAPAM FRANCISCUM !

source : www.guardian.co.uk

Deuteronomy 20:1

When you go to war against your enemies and see horses and chariots and an army greater than yours, do not be afraid of them, because the LORD your God, who brought you up out of Egypt, will be with you.

Pilo

Pilo never had a dull moment. He was the life of every party. He easily gets along with people and he was somebody who would always reach out to help others. Success had been easy for him. He was married to his calling and never found the chance to put up his own family.

Years passed by, he lived alone although once in a while a relative will drop by. He still goes to Church every Sunday until the time came when he had a stroke. Paralyzed and would hardly talked. His money could not do anything to bring back those happy memories. His friends were gone and probably they do not even remember him. Even those whom he have helped in the past were nowhere to be found.

Only God was by his side. His devotion to Mother Mary had given him the reason to understand what he was going through. He is confident that Our Lord Jesus will carry him at that time when he needs Christ the most.

He left this world at the age of 84 to have eternal life.

My friends, how many Pilo or Pilar does this world have? Do we care for them? Love your parents and tell them you love them while they are still in this world? Care for the elders. Give way to them. Make them happy now for they have done their part, shared themselves to make this world a better place.

What If ?

It was a day when he felt that the world was against him, and his head was spinning like crazy.

Rey was fresh from college when he applied for work. After 20 years of dedicated service, he was confident that this year, his promotion to an executive level position was already in the bag.

He day dreamed a lot by then and he knew he deserves the promotion. After all, he has wrestled his way up the ladder, bruising and killing other's hopes, and he was a person who doesn't really care as long as he gets what he wants. Everything worked as planned and now he is looking forward to his retirement and a fat paycheck.

That fateful day, he lost his job. There was no promotion, No separation pay. The company was bankrupt and it was gone.

He didn't know what to do. He has nothing except some savings, a new car still being amortized, and his house.

Upon arriving home, he broke the tragic news to his family. Rey was surprised. They embraced him instead and together they prayed. He cried. Never did he realized that he was away from home for quite some time. Yes, he was present with them but not living with them. Before, he was praying along with them but he was not communicating and relating himself to God. All the while, his mind was always wandering back to his work, his career, his perks, himself. He also realized that his ways were a bit temporal and uncaring. He has sinned and was sorry for it. Praying for forgiveness, he went on to thank God, and his family.

God blessed him with a family and showed him what love means and how to be resilient amidst such trials.

Your guess is as good as mine as to what happened to Rey.

Nothing is impossible with God. He is merciful, generous and loving.

Going to Heaven

One Sunday, a child asked his father. "Dad, why do we have to go to Mass?" The father answered, "If you want to go to heaven, you must really go to Mass."

He then went to his mother and asked the same question. His mother answered, "If you you to go to heaven, you must really go to Mass."

And so, they attended the Mass, and in his homily, the priest said, "If you want to go to heaven, you must really go to Mass."

After the Mass, the son then asked his parents, "Dad and Mom, can we all go to heaven now?"

There was silence for awhile. The parents went on to explain what "going to heaven" means. The child was happy to know everything.

Reflections :

The child believed his parents. It was an unconditional and absolute faith which the child has towards his father and mother. Such belief was reinforced and validated by the priest.

Let our faith in God be like that of the child. Unconditional and absolute. A faith nourished by the teachings of the Church and by our good deeds as Catholics.

Of course, it goes without saying that faith should focus on the Holy Eucharist, so that abundant blessings and graces will flow freely to the faithful.

Viva Hesus Nazareno !

Our Lord Jesus Christ is continuously being praised, honored, adored and glorified today on the occasion of the Feast of the Black Nazarene.

Millions and millions of devotees have flocked to Manila, participated in the celebration of the Holy Mass and courageously joined the procession to Quiapo Church.

One would wonder and ask - what is it in this devotion that makes people brave the ocean of human beings, all trying and hoping to be blessed, while others are participating in thanksgiving for prayers answered.

Millions can never be wrong when it comes to faith and prayers.

Viva Hesus Nazareno!

Veni Creator (Plenary Indulgence)

Come, Holy Spirit, Creator blest,
And in our souls take up your rest;
Come with your grace and heavenly aid
To fill the hearts which you have made.

O Comforter, to you we cry,
O heavenly gift of God Most High,
O fount of life and fire of love,
And sweet anointing from above.

You in your sevenfold gifts are known;
You, finger of God's hand we own;
You, promise of the Father, you
Who do the tongue with power imbue.

Kindle our senses from above,
And make our hearts o'erflow with love;
With patience firm and virtue high
The weakness of our flesh supply.

Far from us drive the foe we dread,
And grant us your peace instead;
So shall we not, with you for guide,
Turn from the path of life aside.

Oh, may your grace on us bestow
The Father and the Son to know;
And you, through endless times confessed,
Of both the eternal Spirit blest.

Now to the Father and the Son,
Who rose from death, be glory given,
With you, O holy Comforter,
Henceforth by all in earth and heaven. Amen.

________________________________

A partial indulgence is granted to the faithful, who devoutly recite the hymn Come, Holy Spirit, Creator blest.
________________________________

A plenary indulgence is granted, if the hymn is recited publicly on the 1st of January and on the feast of Pentecost.