Compilation of Vidal homilies launched

CEBU - The Episcopal Commission on Clergy yesterday launched a compilation of Cebu Archbishop Ricardo Cardinal Vidal’s homilies entitled “Revelations of a Father’s Heart”.

The book was a surprise present of the Archdiocese for Vidal who has just celebrated his 37th Episcopal Anniversary last Sunday. Vidal said no one asked his permission or notified him when the book was being created.

The book is comprised of selected homilies and speeches he delivered during gatherings of priests as well as other occasions. Vidal said that it will serve as a testament to his brother priests whom he has been serving as Bishop for a long time now.

“May this be used in guiding my brother priests as they strive in serving the people,” Vidal said. He said that priests must always be guided even if they already have many experiences.

“What you will read are mere words but words that come from the heart sometimes broken and rejoicing. By opening myself to priests, I may find a way to their souls so we may be together in serving God,” Vidal said.

During the book launching some of his homilies delivered in 2001 were read. One of them entitled “Heads You Lose” was the story about John the Baptist who was ordered beheaded by King Herod of Judea for criticizing his adultery.

The message of God through Vidal’s homily was telling the priests to stand firm and never waver in what they believe is right in the eyes of God.

Another was a homily regarding the treatment of women in the modern day. Vidal told priests to treat women with equal dignity. He also added that priests should not have problems with celibacy because the important thing in priesthood is building an intimate relationship with God above all.

Reviews on the books said that the cardinal has been very sensitive to the yearnings and concerns of priests, said Msgr. Jose Bernardo, executive secretary of ECC.

“Contents of the book were from the heart filled with a father’s love to his priest sons,” Bernardo added.

Bernardo said these were all scripture-based and insights were deep, pastoral and very relevant to the realities of priesthood. — Jessica Ann R. Pareja/BRP   (THE FREEMAN)