Whenever we pray for the Novena for the deceased, there is a line that says, “Lord, help us to see death for what it really is.” This is an invitation that amidst our pain, sorrow, grief, and fears may we see the reason and beauty with death. Today we celebrate Good Friday. But again, how…
Category: Church Traditions
Betrayal and Trust
People have the impression that when you forgive, the once warm relationship that existed previously, should return. That is furthest from the truth. When one forgives, it is not for the other party. It is for ourselves. We take away the anger; we take away the desire for revenge; we focus on healing and moving…
More Than Usual
When Adam and Eve sinned, the very first promise of God was the Messiah. Although it took 42 generations from Abraham to Jesus, God never forgot his promise. In fact, Simeon was so happy to see the Messiah to the point that he said, “Lord, let your servant go in peace. For I have seen…
New Year
Many articles have come out about good fortune and what superstitious practices can be done. Some of the more popular ones are: The list goes on and on. When asked why we do all these, the typical answer is: “It won’t hurt.” But deep down in our hearts, it is saying that if God doesn’t…
Innocents
Look what power, greed, and insecurity can do. Because Herod was very afraid of losing his position and privileges, he had all boys below two years old killed. In today’s time, Herod’s acts are still very much around. According to the World Health Organization, there are about 125,000 abortions every day. Meaning about 40,000,000 to…
Do They Know It’s Christmas Time?
In the US, there was a survey made by Gallup Poll that says in 2021, only 81 percent of Americans believed in God. The survey started way back in 1944. Up to the 1960s, 98 percent believed in God. Up to 2011, it was 92 percent believed. Up to last year, 17 percent do not…
Authority and Participation
Ed. Note: This entry is from Fr. Mon’s series of Simbang Gabi homilies A synodal Church is a participatory and co-responsible Church. How do we identify the goals to be pursued, the way to achieve them, and the steps to be taken? How is authority exercised within our particular Church? What are the practices of…
Immaculate Conception
It is the desire of God that we human beings share his happiness. However, in paradise man and woman ate the forbidden tree, and original sin entered into our lives thus sending man and woman out of paradise. Yet, it is the desire of God that we human beings share his happiness and that is…
Be Prepared
How many times has this happened to us – we get a call or we see on social media that a family, friend, office mate, or neighbor just passed away unexpectedly. Of course, at first, there is always denial, but eventually sadness and grief sink in. Also, two realities come in: First, we are reminded…
Mother Mary’s Birthday
ed. note: This was a mass homily given at LaSalle campus a few years ago, hence the student-athlete references. — Luke 4:31-37 Many years ago, a book titled A Purpose Driven Life came out and became a bestseller. The message was simple yet very profound, especially in a world that puts value on money, fame,…
3 Ways 2 Your 1 God 