In the 6th Simbang Gabi Rev. Fr. Ferdinand C. Delatado presided over the holy mass. He began his homily by reminding us to be sensitive. Be sensitive to what we say to the victims of typhoon Odette.
Let us avoid saying these words: "Don't say people in the Visayas and Mindanao deserved it." You have no right to judge them, don't think it's their punishment. "Don't say the survivor should be thankful." It's like saying to a mother who loses a child that she still has other children. "Don't say the Philippines deserve the privilege of experiencing a strong typhoon because it is a strong nation, people are resilient." It is the same as saying that it's okay that it happened to your family since you're strong. "Don't say it's okay, the Philippines will be fine." Because what happened to the victims isn't just a mosquito bite. Lastly, "Don't say I have nothing to donate, I have nothing to do." You have everything that you can contribute.
As we can see in our current situation, it's hard to be indifferent. There's uneasiness in us that while we're eating three meals a day, numerous people suffer from hunger, drought, and are homeless. Let's be sensitive to the people around us and cooperate.
Similar to Elizabeth and Mary, they both experience a profound challenge. Questionable phenomenons that someone might not comprehend. However they have each other, they understand and relate to each other. By seeing and talking to each other, they found the strength to carry on and continue to follow God's will.
Fr. Ferdie pointed out that the only people who love us are the ones who understand us. People who experienced what you are going through right now. Be sensitive and sympathetic because even if the world turns upside down, your neighbors, friends, family, siblings, and parents are the people who will automatically help you unconditionally.
"Let's do something that will help those who are in need. Even if they don't ask for help, let's take the initiative to take action and empathize."
Christmas is just around the corner, the visitation of Jesus is near. May he find us sympathizing with one another.
We are encouraging you, the faithful, to support and participate in the program of the Social Services Ministry "Balik Handog" in its 5th year. Wherein you can get a bag from the office or on the patio of the church to be filled with essential goods that you can offer in the mass. That will be distributed to those who are in need in the upcoming feast of the Holy Family on December 26, 2021.
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Article by Athea Baranda