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One of the two Christian nations in Asia, it is no wonder Christmas is the biggest holiday in the Philippines. Get to see how Filipinos celebrate Christmas through the eyes of two young fathers.
Looking at the situation of families in the Philippines, Bishop Gilbert Garcera draws valid teachings from Amoris Laetitia that offer some responses in dealing with family issues. Parishes, dioceses and pastoral agents are encouraged to implement programs for families, as proposed by the papal document.
Home to Christians and Muslims, the southern island of Mindanao in the Philippines has been beset by religious conflicts. Hand-in-hand, people of both faiths continue to strive to work for peace, despite glaring differences, like links in a diverse chain.
Last July, Muslims attended Sunday Mass across France to show solidarity in denouncing the killing of an elderly priest in a church by two terrorists. The interfaith celebration signaled the need for sharing and prayer between believers of both religions as a way to defeat fundamentalism and violence.
The meeting of Pope Francis with the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar University in mid-year highlighted a continuity of efforts among different faiths to counter terrorism and promote peace in the world. Collaboration between religions is a necessary condition for the good of humanity.
Fr. Sebastian Vazhakala is considered the co-founder of the contemplative branch of the Missionaries of Charity, the priestly branch of Mother Teresa’s congregation. His life, destined for a banking career, made an about-face after his encounter with the great nun. Below is his story, in his own words.
Fr. Brian Kolodiejchuk, the official postulator for the canonization of Teresa of Calcutta, speaks in this interview of Mother Teresa’s mystical experiences and her struggle with interior darkness for decades.
Most impressive in Mother Teresa’s spiritual profile, who was declared saint on September 4, is her visible sense of compassion, selfless attention to others, bubbling enthusiasm, and unfailing resilience in the face of difficulties – an example to emulate in our days.
Concern for justice towards the poor and the vulnerable, such as widows and orphans, foreigners and refugees, is at the heart of God’s covenant with His people. Jesus reaches out to the marginalized of His time, including foreigners, with whom He found hospitality.
Europe is facing a refugee crisis of historic proportions. Since 2015, more than one million people crossed the Mediterranean, fleeing war and persecution. Among the immigrants is the Darwish family. An example of resilience, courage and hope.
