Concerning times and seasons, brothers and sisters, you have no need for anything to be written to you. For you yourselves know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief at night. (Thessalonians 5:1)
The coming of Jesus is twofold. He came yesterday. That is 2,023 years ago. Jesus came already and that is history. He will come again tomorrow. Jesus’ coming in the future is a coming in glory. He will come to judge the living and the dead.
But in between history and his coming in glory, Jesus is actually coming today and everyday in mystery and that is his coming in the sacraments and in the people we meet everyday. So let us be vigilant, watchful, ready, and happy to wait for his comings.
The Basic Ecclesial Communities (BECs) of Bangaan, Annaba, and Ducligan in Banaue, Ifugao enjoyed their early Advent recollection. It was participated by children, youth, young professionals, and senior citizens. Nov. 18, 2023 marked another beautiful faith history for these BECs.
The following day, Nov. 19, the BECs ofCambolo, Pula, and Batad, also in Banaue, gathered at St. Therese Chapel for their First Advent Recollection. It was a recollection that reminded each one to make use of our 3Ts well. Everyone is gifted with time, talent, and treasure. We must use well them to triumph over the evils of the world.
Barangay Ducligan is indeed a gifted community with gifted people. Aside from the stunning panorama, the village offers beautiful affirming people and the clean potable water direct from the faucet and the healthy river food.
If there are aquatic lives thriving in the rivers, it simply means the water is clean. It offers fresh aquatic food called “kachiw”.
At 3 a.m., one of the youths of the BEC sacrificed his sleep to catch kachiw at the river. He cooked it with love and we had bountiful delicious breakfast. I admire Nestor Buhhay for his leadership that truly animates the Ducligan BEC.
Being immersed with the BECs is one of the best aspects of priestly life because life is simple and sincere.
I appreciate and thank Rev. Fr. Dalang Luther, Banaue parish priest, who sensed the spiritual needs of his BECs and persistently invited speakers for the series of Advent Recollections in his parish.
I always find joy being with the senior citizens. It’s fun to be with them and in their senior citizen innocence like the snappy shots and innocent questions about faith. I and my Advent Recollection team felt blessed by the people and we felt their active presence.
The Cambolo BEC officers headed by Leon Bentican manifested a well-done leadership.Gratitude goes to Cambolo and Pula BECs for patiently waiting and their active participation.
Congratulations too for the beautiful clean and orderly chapel. It’s actually a church. Gratitude to all the generous donors who made the church so beautiful and solemn.
Indeed, the Advent Recollection accordingly is an experience of faith, hope, and love. In short, it is an experience of Jesus coming and being with us. Emmanuel!
After the recollection, they had a common clamor: “Father, we hope to have another one kasi kasla kurang dyay oras tayo.” With all humility, I answered, “If only the road is easy and not dark, we can extend more. Rabiin ken ada dagitoy eskwela with me. Anyway, just let Fr. Luther and your BEC chairperson know about your request.”
Creativity and initiative happen when we treat our work as responsibility and not a sheer obligation.
Our best support ever will be the unseen God but always felt the sincere others who remain unknown, and ourselves who will not betray our own talents. Let us make your support system in our work but make sure we choose the right people who will not destroy and waste talents.
Please support my Marcsongs Concert: “Lagsak nan Paskua” on Dec. 23 for the Betwagan bell tower, Chatol Chapel tire path, and Bishop Francisco Claver marker in Anabel, Sadanga, Mountain Province by being a sponsor.
New Advent Songs are also available for learnings at Bishop Ikoy Complex, Teng-ab, Bontoc, Mountain Province.
Reach me at [email protected].
