In the 8th Simbang Gabi, the imminent birth of Jesus, Fr. Joselito Ortega presided over the holy mass.
The gospel states about circumcision and naming the child of Elizabeth and Zechariah. They both said that their son must be named 'John' meaning, 'God is gracious'. It is their way of thanking God Because despite their age and how long their wish to be granted, God listened and waited to give it to them at the right time.
John came to earth because he has a mission, and this is to prepare the path and announce that the Messiah is coming. He is also a vessel for the people to distinguish Christ.
Fr. Joselito depicts Zechariah as a representation for us to not give up on our problems. Let's rectify how we respond with our faith in the midst of those we experience in our life. Because Zechariah being mute is not his punishment and our dilemma is not a way of God punishing us. Hence, this is his method to wake us up or bring us back to our lost faith. In Zechariah's humility, God gave back his voice so that he can proclaim God's will that should reign in our lives.
He hopes that every one of us becomes an instrument to share the blessings of God to our family, friends, and those people with whom we associate. So that the Lord may remain and dwell in our lives and may we be faithful to the fullness of his glory here on earth.
Always remember, give thanks to God because even if we forget him, he is always with us. He cares for us, loves us, and forgives our sins.
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.
For more updates and information, visit our Facebook page at facebook.com/OurHolyFamilyPH, Twitter @OurHolyFamilyPH, Instagram @ourholyfamilyph, and Youtube Holy Family Parish Marikina.
Article by Athea Baranda