An authentic Filipino Christian Culture

Feast of the Sto. Nino in the Philippines
Cycle A
Gospel: Matt. 18, 1 - 5, 10

What is the uniqueness of Filipino faith?
Quoting from the late John Paul II when he visited Cebu City, Philippines, "I want to express my deep joy and profound thanksgiving to the Lord of history. The thought that for 450 years the light of the Gospel has shown with undimmed brightness in this land and on its people is cause for great rejoicing. Four and a half centuries of fruitful interaction between the local culture and Christian message have resulted in this harmonious blending called "Filipino Christian culture." 

What exactly is the uniqueness of the Filipino Christian culture?
1. Entrustment of our country to the care of the Christ Child together with the Blessed Virgin Mary gives us a deep sense of security in the care of our loving God.  A child feels truly secured.  This gives us a firm grounding on our faith.

2. The late Holy Father mentioned the steady growth and maturity of the Filipino Catholic faith is truly inspiring.  Despite the many problems we have which stem from corruption, the Holy Father's words of affirmation gives us encouragement that we still can learn from our mistakes.  Again, like a little child, his power to learn infects us all for good.

3. Let me just end with a mission aspect that Pope Benedict mentioned in the feast of the Baptism of the Lord, "Become who you are."  This is also our mission; this is who we are. The result is a growing faith, fruitful in all its works.


May our devotion to the Sto. Nino increase our knowledge and love of God.  Viva kay Senor Sto. Nino!

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