(This article was intended for the October 1 issue but for some reason failed to see print.)
A new month starts today – may you all have joyful, grateful days ahead! This month is also Mama Mary of the Holy Rosary month – a friendly reminder that the family that prays together, stays together.
As we greet this new month, we also want to review the month that was. All of you may have your own selected September highlights. We are sure there will be certain September 2015 highlights that we all share commonly.
September 27th super blood moon was one rare heavenly spectacle that many all throughout the world witnessed. Not only did spectators see the moon look larger with its changing colors, from yellow to red and back to yellow. The more patient and fortunate observers were also treated to a lunar eclipse all in the same night!
Pope Francis' visit to the US, the first ever papal visit to this country, is a favorite September 2015 highlight as well for many. His words, his presence, his acts of love continue to make us so grateful that Pope Francis is our spiritual leader amidst ongoing challenges and grief all throughout the world.
Pope Francis remembered to pray for those who died in Mecca. He took time for prisoners and for the powerful. He stopped to kiss children and babies with one special baby dressed like him and with a mitre even bringing out the laughter in him. He invited the world to revisit Ground Zero. This visit reminded us all again to offer prayers for eternal peace and rest for those who perished and prayers of comfort and peace as well for those left behind, and a loud NO to violence and terrorism, ever!
Pope Francis' visit to America also reminded us Filipinos about his wonderful visit to our country. One of my favorite highlights of his visit then was seeing a Pope in a raincoat brave the typhoon to join those affected by the deadly typhoon Haiyan. Pope Francis is truly a man who walks his talk and God's disciple who never fails to remind us all about God and His love and mercy for all.
September 2015 also showed us the face of the victims of hate and war. The photo of dead refugee children was too much to bear – it moved certain European countries to adopt more open and humane policies to provide shelter and protection for refugees. Still. so much more done to protect the vulnerable in this present challenged world.
Unexpected floods in Ibaraki and Tochigi in Japan rendered many Japanese and foreigners, Filipinos included, homeless and disoriented. Ongoing post-disaster initiatives have been launched by the local government and private volunteer groups. Like any post-disaster situation, rebuilding lives will take time. May those affected be able to move on with faith and strength each day.
This year's Marian Festival again brought the devotees of Mama Mary from the Diocese of Saitama to Maebashi in Gumma Prefecture, Japan. Congratulations to the organizers led by Sister Rose and Sister Flor and mabuhay to all who shared their talent and time to make this year's Marian Festival a meaningful and joyful celebration.
Back home, the ugly face of greed and might showed itself here in our land, with the killing of a Lumad educator and two tribal leaders in Surigao del Sur. Others have asked – Is it the gold in the Lumad territory that is behind the conflict in the area? The cry for justice and truth goes on.
September 30 will also announce the final candidates for next year's May elections. Will God answer prayers and guide true public servants to lead this country in the near future? What type of announcement will we hear from Congresswoman Leni Robredo? Will there be withdrawals as well from the present contenders? Abangan.
On a personal note, we all have had our share of personal highlights in September to thank the Lord for and once again, to ask God for His presence, guidance, and blessings for the coming days and months and years.
We are now closer to Christmas with the advent of October and the exit of September! Happy first day of October, everyone!