Catholics told to learn from tragedies

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu clergy called on Catholics to act and be involved in protecting the environment and preserving its asset – a lesson one should discern following the September 20 landslide in Naga City, Cebu.

In observing the feast of environmental steward St. Francis of Assisi, the city's patron, Cebu auxiliary bishop Oscar Jaime Florencio in his 21-minute homily during the Pontifical Mass said one should emulate the saint’s virtues that he does not only express his faith but also puts it into action.

The Cebu bishop presided over the concelebrated Mass at 10 a.m. for Naga’s 189th annual fiesta celebration in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi held at the archdiocesan shrine named after the saint.

Florencio, who was one of the survivors of the 2013 super typhoon Yolanda in Leyte, said humans must cling to their faith and trust to God that are tested in times of disasters but these must be accompanied with actions or good deeds.

The prelate said people must reflect on their tragic experiences and learn from them by taking the right actions rather than being apathetic. If one ignores, then his or her devotion or faith is pointless, he added.

Florencio said Catholics should strive to be engaged in every good initiative and other causes.

Fr. Murphy Sarsonas, chair of Cebu Archdiocesan Commission on Environmental Concern (CACEC), said disasters should awaken people of their responsibility in protecting and preserving the natural resources.

The environment degrades slowly when natural resources are gradually depleting while natural habitats are also destroyed.

Sarsonas, an environmental advocate, said these current natural events should raise the consciousness of people on the present state of the environment.

He added that these events should move them to exercise "good habits" such as taking good care of the Earth.

“Whatever environmental awareness gained has to be translated into good habits,” he said.

He said these deeds must be aligned to Godly virtues that may start in every household and then may be extended to the bigger community. — MBG (FREEMAN)