LEARN TO LIVE, LIVE TO LEARN
“To know much and taste nothing-of what use is that?” ―St. Bonaventure of Bagnoregio
"Dear Kuya Jeff, your Sunday talk really made me think about how important prayer is in our lives. I remember an old priest telling me when I was younger that even just reading epitaphs on gravestones can be a way to say a quick prayer for those who have passed. I often see abbreviations like 'R.I.P.' and 'D.O.M.' on grave markers. I know this might be a bit random, but I'm curious about how these inscriptions help us remember and pray for the dead. I hope you have time to reply. Thanks and God bless!" - Marble Lapid
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"Dear Kuya Jeff, I remember joining your advent pilgrimage in Laguna a couple of years ago. I'm curious about your pilgrimage plans for this upcoming advent, especially with the Pilgrims of Hope jubilee. As a Marian devotee, I've been wanting to visit Our Lady of Lourdes Church in France, but I don't have the budget for Europe. I heard there's a replica of the Lourdes Shrine in Bulacan. Is the Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto Church in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, a Catholic church? I'd appreciate your thoughts on this and I'm looking forward to journeying with you on another pilgrimage." - Mario Peregrino
by Jeff L. Jacinto, PhD, DHum Profound affection to Mary is deeply ingrained in the Filipino consciousness. The Blessed Virgin Mary is honored by various names, with numerous churches and shrines dedicated to her. Various organizations and sodalities have been established to promote devotion to her, and the Angelus Domini and the Rosary are recited daily in many households. Therefore, it's undeniable that we are a nation deeply devoted to Mary, known as "Un Pueblo Amante de Maria."
By Jeff L. Jacinto, PhD, DHum Festivals hold a significant place in the hearts of Filipinos, celebrated throughout the year, especially in the summer months. These events embody both the religious and social elements intrinsic to Philippine culture. Primarily religious, they demonstrate our Catholic faith through liturgical and devotional practices. People dress in their finest attire, attend mass, participate in processions with lit candles, sing devotional songs, and pray novenas in honor of the town's Patron Saint, fostering community cohesion as neighbors come together to prepare for the festivities.
"Dear Kuya Jeff, I've been following your Facebook posts and have been learning a great deal about our Catholic faith through the Q&A content you share. Recently, my daughter was chosen to sing as one of the angels during the Salubong on Easter Sunday morning in our parish. Despite my Evangelical dad's objection, citing it as un-biblical, I allowed my daughter to participate as she loves to sing and really wanted to be involved. I'm curious about the Catholic practice of the Salubong and whether or not the meeting between Mama Mary and the Risen Lord during the Resurrection really happened. Thank you for your time in addressing my question, and please continue writing—it helps a lot." - Angel Mama
"Hey Kuya Jeff, I wanted to express my gratitude for your inspiring Palm Sunday reflection. Your discussion about Judas being responsible for his choices got me thinking. Can Judas truly be held accountable for betraying our Lord if it was predestined in the Scriptures? Wouldn't it be unfair of God to designate Judas as a traitor? Is there not a possibility of Judas finding salvation, especially considering his repentance and the act of returning the blood money, as mentioned in Matthew 27:3-5? I hope you'll have a moment to address my inquiry. Your reflections greatly enrich my prayer time each week. Keep up the excellent writing, and may you be blessed with more inspiration." - Hey Jude
"Dear Kuya Jeff, I wanted to share my reflections on our recent pilgrimage. While it was physically demanding, it was undeniably enriching spiritually. During our visit to Morong Church, I couldn't help but notice a stone lion on the premises. Interestingly, a local mentioned that there used to be a pair of lions positioned in front of the church. This sparked my curiosity about their significance. Could they possibly relate to Feng Shui principles? I recall seeing similar stone lions at San Agustin Church in Intramuros. Are they symbolic of good fortune or perhaps serving as protective talismans? I'm eager to gain a deeper understanding. Once again, I extend my gratitude for organizing such a meaningful Lenten pilgrimage. I eagerly anticipate future journeys of faith." - Happy Pilgrim
Have you ever had anyone tell you that you could not do something? Are you facing some seemingly impossible situation in your life? Aeronautical engineers will tell you a bumble bee shouldn't be able to fly because its body is way too big and its wing span too small but God commanded the bumble bee to go from flower to flower. Despite the fact that it doesn't look like much of a flyer, the bumblebee obeyed God's command and it keeps on flying. We just have to trust Him and keep on moving in faith. If God knows how to make a bumblebee fly, he can surely make a way out of no way. "Dear Kuya Jeff, reminiscing about the times you dubbed me your favorite Bible student at Greenbelt Chapel brings a smile. You're my go-to faith guide, effortlessly unraveling intricate aspects for someone like me. By the way, what defines an International Shrine, and how does it differ from a Basilica? Eager for your insights. Wishing you a swift recovery, and blessings to you." - Net O.
"Dear Kuya Jeff, I'm so thrilled about the Lenten pilgrimage to Rizal that you are spearheading in March in view of the 2024 Year of Prayer announced by Pope Francis. I'll be bringing my co-teacher to this prayerful event. We always appreciate learning from you and enjoy the journey. I have a question about the customs and traditions we observe at the beginning of each year, such as the Feast of the Black Nazarene in Quiapo and the Feast of the Sto. Nino in Cebu, Tondo, Pandacan, and various cities and towns nationwide. Are the Black Nazarene and Sto. Nino considered idols? Do Catholics engage in statue worship? Thank you for taking the time to address my query, and we look forward to reconnecting with you this Lenten season. God bless you and your family." - Agnes C.
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July 2024
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