FOR as long as we are true disciples of Christ, we cannot aspire to be greater than Christ, our master. Obviously, among ourselves, it is highly possible that a disciple or even a servant can in time outrank his leader and master, as can easily...
(An excerpt from the Homily of Most Rev. Romulo G. Valles, D.D., Archbishop of Davao, June 28, 2021 during the live streamed mass of the 41st Anniversary of the Dedication of the Metropolitan Cathedral of San Pedro.) San Pedro Cathedral is a symbol for us in...
Recently, I visited a friend who just came back from quarantine due to COVID 19 infection and suffering from depression. He told me, “Where is God now? Why did He allow this pandemic to happen?” The question is as relatable and real to many who...
THAT’S what Christ wants us to be, if we are to be his faithful disciples. It’s not easy, of course. But we have his assurance that as long as we are with him, we truly can be as shrewd, cunning and clever as serpents and...
(This piece was delivered by the writer as his eulogy/reflection during the 9th day novena for his late mother, Josefa Fe “Jessie” Villafuerte Escario, last April 14, 2021 at the San Pablo Parish Church, Davao City.) To paraphrase the title of a novel by Gabriel Garcia...
The Covid-19 pandemic started as a health issue in December 2019. Over the months that followed it has not only affected the health of people but also in the areas of finances, emotions and even spirituality. Many professionals and church people have linked efforts to...
THAT’S what Christ wants us to be. “Without cost you have received. Without cost you are to give.” (Mt 10,8) These words simply tell us that we have to give ourselves to others as generously as God has given himself to us. We have to...
HAVE you ever wondered why Christ appeared to just choose his apostles at random? He would just pass by a certain place, and upon seeing someone, he would just say, “Come, follow me.” And wonder of wonders, the person called would just follow him without...
LIFE can find us in many different situations, some of them so special and extraordinary that we can find ourselves helpless. In these cases, we should never forget that the first thing we have to do is to go to Christ, asking always for help....