After the Fiesta Mass the image of the patron saint is held over the heads of devotees. In Ilonggo this is called "Palapak" which means to step on something. This is the way they believe blessing is received. It seems to be practiced only in...
“The stories of different ages all have a common “loom”: the thread of their narrative involves “heroes”, including everyday heroes, who in following a dream confront difficult situations and combat evil, driven by a force that makes them courageous, the force of love. By immersing...
NOW that we are still in various forms of quarantine, it might be timely to remind ourselves of our need to keep heaven in mind. The Solemnity of the Ascension of our Lord Jesus Christ gives us good occasion for this consideration, actually a crucial...
IN our daily dealings with others, especially when we encounter contradicting views and positions, we should remember that while we do not ignore our differences, we actually have more things in common than differences. We should try our best not to get stuck with our differences,...
HOW can we be objective and fair in our discussions and exchanges when there will always be many angles, layers and spins in which any issue, whether it is an opinable matter or even a dogmatic one, a highly contentious political issue or a long-settled...
LET’S be wary of what appears to be a trend in the Internet these days: video clips that glorify violence as a way of redressing injustice. These videos are particularly appealing to the young ones who still are more in their idealistic outlook, not yet...
NO, this piece is not about human reproduction. This is about our great need to be vitally united to Christ, like branches to the vine, if we are to be fertile and fruitful, not only in our own personal spiritual life but also in our...
A MEME that was entertaining people in the social media for a time says, “Two things will define you. Your patience/determination when you have nothing. And your attitude when you have everything.” Though most the time I take memes with a grain salt, I cannot deny...
History tells us of the intervention of Mama Mary at all times for the benefit of our souls. As our mother, she always takes part in our journey as Church. As a “people in love with Mary,” we, Filipinos once again have consecrated ourselves to...
International Nurses’ Day May 11, 2020 Homily of Abp. Romulo G. Valles, D.D. Usa sa mga pamalandong karon nga akong ihanyag niining pagsaulog nato sa misa mao ang mga buhat sa mga nurses: ang ilang pag-alagad, care, ug sakripisyo. Apil kana sa buhat sa Diyos, kay pinaagi ninyo...