𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗟𝗮𝗱𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝗽𝗲𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗛𝗲𝗹𝗽 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗵: 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝗗𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿, 𝗟𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗟𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁

When Rev. Fr. Jeffrey Estrella passed away and joined the Kingdom of God in May 2022, he left a profound legacy of deep spirituality and unwavering dedication to the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish. His departure was a significant loss, but his influence on the community remains deep and everlasting. 

As we waited for the next Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Patrick Jay Parce continued religious services as the Parish Administrator until November 2022. He actively called on the Parishioners to support the construction of some sections of the church building, which he had accomplished.

About six months after Rev. Fr. Estrella's passing, the Parish finally installed its third Parish Priest on November 27, 2022, in the name of Rev. Fr. Harold Funa. The Parishioners warmly welcomed him, and he inspired everyone with his humility and grace. I may not have met him personally since I now live away from home, but I follow his ministry to the Parish through social media. His great personality appealed to everyone to become closer to the church and give the highest service to God.

Rev. Fr. Harold Funa's service in the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish Lomboy was transformative. His nearly two years of dedicated service instilled a renewed sense of hope and faith in the Divine Power, love, and light, profoundly impacting the lives of the Parishioners.

I express my utmost respect and admiration for his impact on our lives through his most significant accomplishments in such a brief period until his farewell in July 2024, when he embarked on his mission to another Church in a neighboring town.

Since 2012, we have witnessed the remarkable transformation of our church from a Mission Station, initiated by Rev. Fr. John Denosta, to its establishment as a Parish on January 13, 2018. This journey is a testament to our collective faith and dedication. 

Today, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish—Lomboy proudly unveiled its transformed structure and appearance under the guidance of Rev. Fr. Funa, who continues to bring about positive change. This magnificent church is not only a blessed home but also a Divine sanctuary for religious and spiritual service for our faithful congregations of Parishioners. 

Together, we are fostering a community of devoted religious servants and leaders who will guide our path to righteousness and spirituality. Rev. Fr. Funa taught us that through our acts of sharing, giving, and love, we uplift our lives; we help transform our community. And we remain steadfast in dedicating our utmost service to the Parish for the greater glory of God and his Divinity.

The accomplishments we have achieved in our religious community are a testament to our shared commitment and dedication. Our Parish Priests have been instrumental in building and strengthening the church, and it is our spiritual responsibility to protect and uphold its glory and ensure its continued prosperity.

We continue to pray for them and support their mission as they help us draw closer to God, find our purpose, and live meaningful lives. 

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish - Lomboy will continue its transformation journey, serving as a beacon of hope, a symbol of love, and a source of positivity and Divine light for years to come.

©️ Del Cusay 2024

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👉  The Feast of Our Lady of Perpetual Help: Our Love and Devotion

👉  Sunday Thanksgiving: Graceful Spiritual Service to the People

👉  His Eminence the 9th Filipino Cardinal

𝗪𝗮𝗹𝗸 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗚𝗼𝗱: 𝗝𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗲𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗘𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲

 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚'𝙨 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚 𝙖𝙛𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙙𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙝. 𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙩'𝙨 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙬𝙚 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙖𝙨𝙨𝙪𝙧𝙚𝙙 𝙤𝙛 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙣 until 𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙡𝙖𝙨𝙩 𝙗𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙝. 𝙄𝙣 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙚𝙣, 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙪𝙚𝙨 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙨𝙪𝙛𝙛𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙤𝙣𝙡𝙮 𝘿𝙞𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙚 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩'𝙨 𝙪𝙣𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜.

When our loved one has departed, we reminisce about his life and celebrate it. We recall the moments we've shared and all the lessons we've gained. 

Over the years, he's been there to witness the ups and downs and celebrate the winning moments. He's also there to assure us we're doing well and on the right track. 

When we're doubtful and weak, he's there to uplift us. He believed in us when we felt we couldn't soar high. He pushed us beyond our capacity. He loved us unconditionally. 

We've learned from him to live a happy and fulfilled life, to serve one's family and the community, and above all, not to forget the highest form of service to God the Almighty. 

You've left a legacy of Divine service through the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish, which you've witnessed how it started and grew to become a more extensive religious community. You've led us toward the right path and to walk with God. 

You're now in a Heavenly place with God, and with your most precious one, you're both Reliving the Legacy you've left us. We are grateful for your gift of kindness and Divine service. You'll be forever in our hearts. 

We'll continue to respect and uphold the legacy you've started for the glory of God. And as you walk with God, may you oversee us in spirit and continue to lead us toward our journey to eternal life when we see each other in the afterlife. 

©️ 2023 Del Cusay 

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👉 Eternal Peace: Reliving the Legacy

Taking a Leap from Hope to Faith

We all have fears and doubts. But believing that something can happen makes a difference in our lives if we leap from thinking to surrendering. 

We have hopes because we can achieve whatever our hearts desire. That's when we believe our higher hopes can lead to tremendous success and fulfillment.

When we hope for something, we say, "It can happen." However, we're dealing with the possibility of keeping our fingers crossed. It may or may not happen. When we don't get our hopes, we slow down and may easily give up. 

Leaping hope to faith is believing that something will genuinely happen. It's about removing doubts that things are hard to achieve. But with confidence, nothing is impossible. That's the difference in why faith can make miracles in our lives. It's when we have great faith that we achieve things with easiness and a higher level of success.

When things go wrong, or we're behind in the race of life, we may pause for a moment, get energized, and take a giant leap from hope to faith. Then, the universe conspires to make things happen. It shifts our mindset from probability to greater possibility, and our dreams and desires take a quantum leap of faith to eternity. 

©️ 2022 Del Cusay

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Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish: Heaven on Earth

It feels good to have celebrated the holidays of 2021 together with my family in my hometown. It was a meaningful year-end for the fulfillment of hopes and dreams. We've also welcomed the new year, 2022, with optimistic hopes and affirmations for a great year ahead.

Another year of aspirations as we face more challenging days of the pandemic. We've survived 2021, and this year, 2022, brings another uncertainty into our lives.

I feel blessed to have celebrated the first Sunday mass of 2022 with my parents at the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish in my hometown in Jamindan. It's been two years since my last visit during the pandemic. It's still the same feeling except for restrictions like physical distancing and wearing face masks. The previous year's pre-pandemic was more intimate when we could meet to hug and kiss each other. But now, we see each other and look at their faces. 

In the absence of Rev. Father Jeffrey Estrella, our new Parish administrator is Father Patrick Jay Parce, who actively calls on the Parishioners to be more faithful and continue to fulfill their religious obligations. As parishioners, we can contribute to building a better parish for everyone. It may take years to create a more stable and refined church. Still, with a commitment to the parishioners' spiritual service, we can experience a "Heaven on Earth" and live a beautiful and meaningful life. 

On January 13, 2022, the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish Jamindan celebrated its 4th anniversary as a Parish in 2018. It's about four years of religious service to the community and alignment with the Divine power, love, and light. The newly built Parish continues to draw flocks of believers and Parishioners as a testament to Mother Mary's intercession to our prayers and petitions.

Yes, heaven is a place on earth. We may feel small daily, but can do great things with God's grace. A miracle is waiting to happen, and it is already happening if we see and feel it. God's love creates benefits in our lives, and we must recognize the blessings poured upon us. God is good and always present in our lives. A heaven-on-earth experience happens when we call his name, sing a song of praise, and kneel to pray.

©️  2022 Del Cusay

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Nazareno 2022: Unwavering Faith

The Feast of the Black Nazarene has been a significant event since I was a devotee in 2013. Since then, I have celebrated its feast day every January 9. This annual religious festivity gives meaning to my life as I strengthen my faith and spiritual beliefs.

For the 2nd year since 2020, the annual "traslacion" was canceled due to the threat of the Covid-19 pandemic. However, a mass is celebrated at the Quiapo church, and only a few devotees are inside. The believers are unstoppable and dare to take risks to celebrate their faith. The pandemic didn't stop them from expressing their unwavering faith, love, and devotion.

On January 9, 2019, I celebrated and witnessed the "traslacion" in Manila. It was perfect timing and a blessing that I noticed the massive flocks of devotees for the first time. For many years, I've only seen it on TV until I've seen the activity before my eyes live as it happens.

I'm happy to celebrate the annual feast through a TV Sunday mass this year. The place of the Black Nazarene in Quiapo, Manila, is home to several stories of miracles and hope. Thousands to millions of devotees have testimonies on how their faith and devotion brought meaning and strength into their lives.

I also testify how the Black Nazarene has improved my life. It has never failed me in my prayer requests and intentions. The Black Nazarene symbolizes unwavering faith for everyone who believes in His divine power, love, and light.

©️ 2022 Del Cusay 

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Tranquility at the Lotus Temple

Where can we find peace in a world of noise, hatred, and wars? People would fight for their beliefs and feel superior to their religion. Country versus country, religion versus religion, people have endless fights about their ideas.

In a country of over one billion people, I've found a place where people unite to worship one God regardless of social status and religion.

The Bahá'í House of Worship, also known as the Bahá'í Temple or Lotus Temple, is a breathtaking modern structure that demands a visit to fully appreciate its beauty. 

This architectural wonder was designed to resemble a lotus flower. It can be seen from the top, all sides, and even a kilometer away. It was built to house thousands of visitors from different places in India and nationalities worldwide.

It was a great moment when I challenged myself to visit the Lotus Temple in Delhi, India, sometime in December 2011. I remember the thousands of people inside the temple complex who endured the long lines to get inside the main temple. I had to follow the strict rules of patiently waiting in line and leaving the shoes barefooted inside the temple.

Stepping into the temple, I found a peaceful spot to sit. In the center, I meditated for an hour, surrounded by a serene silence. There were no religious objects, just the walls and interior designs. It was a calming and meditative experience, being in the midst of people from all walks of life and different religions.

I was filled with a sense of inspiration and hope, witnessing people of opposing beliefs coming together to worship in the same place. This level of inclusivity is rare, as many religions impose exclusivity to protect their faith.

At the Bahá'í Temple, everyone is a son of one God. And that all people believe in one God. That's the significance of the Bahá'į faith. It's about the oneness of humanity. No hatred, no prejudice, and no exclusive God. But only one God for all.

If every country had its Bahá'í Temple, people, and even atheists, could have a place to visit to ponder their existence and purpose, to find meaning, and to contemplate the joy of living.

Bahá'í faith taught me about the realization of one God for humanity. The same God I adore and pray for wherever I am and maybe.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay 

Pashupatinath Temple: Of Life and Death

All life comes to an end. That's a reality that most of us are scared of or in denial of the fate of human existence. In short, we'll all die. But what happens when we depart on our earthly journey? And so, one day, I was brought to a place to see the dead bodies for cremation rites on the holiest Bagmati River in Kathmandu, Nepal. 

My tourist guide brought me to one of the holiest Hindu temples in Kathmandu. He thought my visit would only be complete with it since it's declared a UNESCO World Heritage site and is a highly revered place among Hindus.

It was a unique place since the temples and ashrams were on the riverside. The Bagmati River is holy among Hindus, where they bring the dead bodies of their love for cremation rites.

I can't believe I have witnessed cremation rites open to the public. More than five dead bodies were cremated in the first hour since I arrived.

I was on the hill portion of the riverside, where other locals also came to witness. You can see the greyish-white smoke emitted from the dead bodies as they burn. You can imagine the smoky air in the cremation area from afar. I initially felt uncomfortable, but I must respect and learn from their religious beliefs.

Hindus believe our physical body is irrelevant as we die, so they cremate it instead of burying it. In Pashupatinath, families bring the dead body of their loved ones. It's to perform the last rites before they bid farewell to their dearly departed.

As the dead body arrives on the Bagmati riverside, they wash their feet with water from the river. They sprinkle some rice and shower some marigolds on the face before it gets burned. Then the ashes are scattered in the river. The family members would also walk three times clockwise around a wooden funeral pyre before placing the dead body on top.

That was an unforgettable experience back in 2013. Suddenly, it flashed back to when I watched the mass cremation rites on television on open grounds in New Delhi. This time, families cremate their loved ones who died due to Covid-19.

Pashupatinath temple is a holy site in honor of Lord Shiva, the destroyer in Hinduism.

When I stepped out of the Pashupatinath complex, I had mixed emotions. The place and the cremation rites may not be for the faint-hearted, but I survived.

I may not have enjoyed visiting Pashupatinath much, but I'm glad for the learnings. It was like reliving a lesson from my world history class. 

I've learned that when we die, our families will be there until the end to care for us. Our bodies may have vanished, but great memories remain in their hearts. Like Hindus, we may believe in the concept of karma and reincarnation. That may be that we don't only live once, but we're just waiting on our rebirth when our time ends.

©️2021 Del Cusay

Easter Sunday 2021: The Promised Land

Where will our destination be after this Covid-19 pandemic? Will a promised land be waiting for us, just like God's command for the people's great exodus in ancient Egypt? Will our top leaders become like Moses, who will make a great sacrifice and lead its people safely away from threats and destruction?

The hostility and uncertainty during this pandemic brought misery and deep suffering to modern life. The powerful and influential became stronger, and the weak and poor became poorer.

That's our current reality. With billions of people suffering, we feel the oneness of humanity for a great plan of the massive exodus. This time is to end the pains and suffering of the pandemic that's killing us.

Moses protected his people under his leadership, and they succeeded in reaching the promised land. Today, our leaders must follow in Moses's footsteps and hear God's voice to protect and fight for their people against the unseen enemy.

The world's religions play a role in influencing the nation's government and its leaders to save us and overcome this great challenge of our time. 

Our leaders should keep going even after the end. We may never know how long we will fight and remain steadfast, but one thing is sure: God speaks to the leaders of our land amidst the noise and chaos.

We hope our leaders listen to God's voice and will accept the crosses entrusted to them. We all have our crosses because God is testing our faith in the greatest challenge of our time. 

When we survive this pandemic, we'll all live in the promised land. Hopefully, our nation and leaders will be wiser. We'll eventually become great believers, and all our lives will become better than ever.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

Holy Week 2021: The Path to Salvation

We live on earth for a purpose. We have a mission to fulfill for the glory of God and our salvation.

Remember, this is the promise of Christ. We're here to do good, to find a deeper meaning to our existence, and then to live in eternity when we pass from this life.

But how can we find a meaningful living amidst the threats and chaos in our times? With the Covid-19 pandemic, we all seem to suffer, and many people are getting sick and dying.

Have they fulfilled their purpose? Their mission? 

The rich and the poor, the young and the old, the weak and the strong are dying. Once infected by the deadly unseen enemy, no one seems spared.

As a year has passed, it's disheartening to see us repeating our mistakes. It's as if we're stuck in a cycle of suffering, waiting for a lesson to be learned. We're experiencing a predictable turn of events, knowing what will happen next. It's like we're watching a rewind and another season of the same circumstances.

It's natural to wonder, are we truly in control of all of this? Or is it God who is in control?

One thing that Christ sacrificed is his passion, death, and resurrection to save humanity from sin. He endured suffering so that we could understand our nature of living. And not to be cowardly or defeated by our demons and weaknesses.

If the world is doing its cleansing, we all suffer; either we survive or die. We're the first or the last in line. Eventually, our fate is that we die. Not our will, but His divine will, which is the plan and purpose that God has for each of us, even in times of suffering.

Who will save us? What happens when we die? Christ's teachings offer us reassurance. He is our savior, and when we die, we can find comfort in the promise of eternal life in His presence.

Christ taught us that He is the way, the truth, and the life. He'll be eternally in our hearts and minds when we listen and follow Him. Our path to salvation will always have Divine guidance. Our salvation is to live each day with faith in our hearts. To track and be guided, to suffer and survive, to be crucified and resurrected.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

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The Purple Garden in the Sky

The color purple, a symbol of spirituality, is a sight to behold. Its beauty captivates the eyes and touches the depths of the soul. It nourishes the body, enriches the mind, and expands our consciousness.

That makes purple the color of choice among lovers who have chosen to celebrate a milestone with Divine love and light.

Shades of purple, from lilac to lavender and indigo to magenta, grace our surroundings. Their soothing presence aids in healing, bringing comfort to our souls. 

And so, we choose a spiritual color that rejuvenates the body and awakens the power of the soul. That makes us feel good, look good, and do good as we take the path leading toward another height -- our dreams, goals, and heart's desires. 

As we navigate the labyrinth of life, the color purple serves as a beacon, reminding us of our expanded consciousness and higher self. We are spiritual beings, capable of experiencing and radiating love and compassion.

The purple flowers in the garden and the purple sky are reminders of a spiritual connection that challenges our imagination and ambition. With clarity of our thoughts and intentions, we see the light shining through us. The radiance makes us feel light instantly and out of the blue. 

It's the life we choose that makes us feel truly alive. Each day, we carry gratitude in our hearts, a beacon of inspiration and motivation. It's this gratitude that propels us forward, in constant motion towards our dreams and goals.

Life is good. We are very blessed with the people we share our love with so dearly. With the Divine blessings, we're even more delighted by the graces we receive daily, from this day, and for the rest of our lives.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

Wellness and Balanced Life Strategies at the MDP Village

Fitness and wellness. That's our goal to achieve year after year at the start of the new year. 

Fitness goals must be part of our health journey. Being healthy and free from diseases and illnesses makes us truly alive. It makes us jump high to reach a new level of success as we start our year right.

The higher the jump, the lighter, the better.

Yes, the past years may have been out of control when our unconscious dietary lifestyle hit us badly, eating junk foods of no nutritional value, making us ill and killing us.

Then, work and stress eating or overeating may have led to being out of shape. Our physique changes as we add years to life when metabolism hits low. 

Yes, the past years may have been out of control when our unconscious dietary lifestyle hit us badly, eating junk foods of no nutritional value, making us ill and killing us. But remember, we can regain control.

Over the years, it's been a challenge to be in shape. Being fit takes a lot of discipline and commitment. It's always challenging but doable and possible. I used to make it with minimal discomfort but had achieved the desired goal.

I can, and I will!

This year, 2021, is about returning to what we used to be: fit and healthy, well and not ill, feeling better and not bitter, seeing things brightly and not ugly.

Getting sick is expensive and deadly. I can't afford it, so I choose to be well and avoid getting ill. It's a choice we all have, and I choose wellness. 

Through the years, we have listened to various health teachings. From fitness and wellness gurus, medical experts, health trainers, and healers. Learning from these experts has been invaluable in our health journey.

There's a great Master who has greatly influenced my belief about achieving balanced health and the esoteric causes of diseases, now revealed to humanity.

Since 2011, I have learned balanced life strategies focusing on health and wellness from Master Del Pe, a master of life.

I'm grateful to have known and been mentored by a modern Sage and an international life coach who's visionary in leadership and has a deep love for humanity and the world.

After decades of world travel and working with individuals, families, governments, groups, and companies in more than 100 countries, the Philippines is truly blessed to have Master Del Pe return and settle in his hometown.

Master Del Pe's new Shangri-La is beautiful in the highlands of Cervantes, Ilocos Sur, in the Northern Philippines. 

His MDP Village, a wellness and healing center hub in the North, offers a range of services and programs designed to promote health and wellness and is gaining recognition among health enthusiasts from the Philippines and other parts of the world.

Master Del Pe hosted an international convention at the MDP village where attendees got a perspective on higher consciousness and mastering life ahead of time.

MDP village is also a spiritual sanctuary, an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, and in regaining life to have peace of mind daily.

I've attended and listened to Master Del Pe's interviews on various social media platforms, such as Facebook and YouTube; his insights and expertise are mindblowing. 

If you want to visit him at the MDP Village or meet him in Metro Manila, follow and contact him on his social media accounts below.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/masterdelpe/

YouTube: https://youtube.com/user/MasterDelPe

Website: https://www.mdpvillage.com/

I've learned a lot from Master Del Pe. He's a master in life who can help us live the best life we deserve. 

©️ 2021 Del Cusay 

Nazareno 2021: A Timeless Devotion

The Feast of the Black Nazarene, a significant religious event in Filipino culture, is celebrated by millions of devotees this time of year. It is a time of deep spiritual reflection and unwavering faith. This black image of the 17th-century Jesus of Nazareth has been a source of inspiration and undying faith for Filipinos.

What makes the Holy Image of the Black Nazarene so special is the miracles that transpired for the believers. When a faithful sincerely prays, it's always granted—even the most impossible.

My first ever Nazareno experience was about eight years ago. I remember the anticipation and excitement as I prepared for the day. I celebrated the morning mass and prayed for blessings to happen in my life, a tradition that has become a part of my personal journey of faith. 

It was a pleasant experience to be with the flocks of the faithful. I celebrated again in 2016 and 2017. I did not miss it since I was in Manila for those years.

One of the most memorable experiences was the Nazareno 2019 when I witnessed the Traslacion. That was a day-long procession, but I had captured a glimpse of a holy hour near Binondo Chinatown.

How is this year's celebration possible amidst the threat of the pandemic? And when there's a threat of the new variant that's possibly been around undetected?

Despite the health threat posed by the pandemic, Filipinos continue to defy the odds in observance of centuries-old religious traditions and expression of faith. The unwavering devotion of the believers is a testament to the power of faith in overcoming adversity.

This year's celebration is marked by the strict observance of health protocols. Devotees are practicing physical distancing and wearing masks, ensuring their safety and protection.

This year, the Traslacion is declared canceled. However, the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene will celebrate the Holy Mass.

Compared to the previous year's experience, the Nazareno 2021 was something new we have yet to see. It was more orderly and quiet. This personal devotion is a celebration in the absence of chaos.

Millions of devotees may have yet to participate in this year's Feast Day of the Nazarene in Quiapo, but it's still possible in the comfort of our homes through online streaming.

The message was clear, and the hope of a better life is still my heart's desire. For this year, better health and protection will be of the utmost priority. 

Our hopes extend beyond personal intentions to encompass health, safety, and security. We fervently hope for the end of this pandemic, the end of suffering, and a fresh start to the year and decade.

Nazareno 2021 is about hoping for a brighter year in uncertain times. Our timeless devotion will always be in our hearts, and our unwavering faith will bring new hope, a renewed life, and a new beginning.

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

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👉Nazareno 2017: Devotion to the Feast of the Black Nazarene

👉Nazareno 2016: Feast of the Black Nazarene

👉Nazareno 2013: Celebrating the Feast of the Black Nazarene

His Eminence the 9th Filipino Cardinal

Many were surprised when Pope Francis announced that the Archbishop of Capiz, Most Reverend Jose Advincula, would be one of the new 13 Cardinals of the Catholic Church.

It's a tradition that the Vatican appoints an Archbishop to elevate to the title of Cardinal from the Archdiocese of Manila and Cebu. But this time, our very own Capiz Archbishop Advincula was chosen by the Pope to join the College of Cardinals. It's the second highest position in the Catholic Church, next to the Pope, and also an elector to the conclave of the next Pope.

On November 28, 2020, the Pope confirmed the appointment of the new 13 Cardinals, including His Eminence Most Rev. Jose Cardinal Advincula.

Cardinal Advincula's new role holds immense significance for the Catholic faithful of Capiz. The Holy See's recognition of our growing faith and devotion to the church is a source of great pride and honor for us.

Pope Francis's message was powerful and meaningful in that he went beyond the peripheries, choosing neglected areas away from the traditional centers of power.

It's a blessing and a heartwarming experience for Cardinal Advincula as an Archbishop. He was the principal celebrant on the Feast of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish on June 27, 2019, in our hometown in Jamindan, Capiz.

Cardinal Advincula of the Archdiocese of Capiz started several Catholic Mission Stations and Mission schools in Capiz. 

In 2012, the Archbishop of Capiz planned to establish a Mission Station on the Hill Road of Linambasan, Jamindan. On January 13, 2018, it was elevated into a Parish. From a Mission Station, it's now called the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish in honor of the blessed Mary, the Mother of Christ.

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish will continue to grow in faith, love, and service today and in future generations.

The church becomes better for spirituality and religious service to the faithful.

We continue to grow in faith in Christ Jesus and in the blessed Mary to become the children of God and Mary.

As a community, we offer our prayers to Cardinal Advincula, hoping he'll continue to be a beacon of hope and faith to those who need Divine love and light.

©️ 2020 Del Cusay 

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Living with the Gods in McLeod Ganj

A balanced living where nature meets progress and development. It's a place that's a blend of culture and faith.

These are the Indians and the Tibetans, living in harmony with the Gods in McLeod Ganj.

In February 2013, I traveled to be with the Gods in McLeod Ganj. They call it "Little Lhasa" because it had had a large population of Tibetans in exile since 1959 when the Indian Government accepted them and gave them a place to put up their Government while in exile. 

That's only in India. They warmly embrace refugees and protect their rights, safety, and security. 

The greatest love is the Indian Government's support of their expression of faith in Tibetan Buddhism.

My journey in McLeod Ganj was graced by a unique encounter with the Dalai Lama, the Spiritual leader of the Tibetans in exile. I was fortunate to meet him at his residence, where he shared profound insights about 'Jataka Tales' with local and international pilgrims.

I'm a Christian, but I've studied Major religions in India for over a year and incorporated their beliefs into my faith.

The world would be better if we were not too fanatic about our religious affiliation. When people would tend to fight for their faith as the best and the only truth, I would try to learn and understand others' faith deeply.

I befriend people of different backgrounds and faiths in India. It's about respect and understanding, not prejudice and religious superiority. 

With the universal God, we're all equal. God just happened to appear in different places and times in a completely different image depending on the culture and language unique to each country.

When I was in India, their Gods were my Gods. The Gods and the Goddesses in Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism, Islam, and Christianity. All are Gods, but also a universal God.

In McLeod Ganj, I felt the Divine Beings, the Gods of the Tibetans and the Indians. It was different images, but I prayed to their Gods on its universal form.

Stepping into the Namgyal Monastery was a transformative experience. It was a union with the Divine that didn't diminish my Christian faith but instead deepened and enriched it. 

That's why Major religions thrive in India, and people learn to live in harmony and reverence for each other's faith.

My visit to Himachal Pradesh was Divinely inspired. I traveled alone, having faith in the Divine guides. 

Whether you're a Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, Muslim, or Christian, we're all brothers and sisters here on earth. We share a common humanity. Your suffering is also my suffering, and our joys are shared. We are all part of a larger, interconnected whole.

During these challenging times, what we need most is a sense of shared humanity. We need to pray for each other without boundaries, religious affiliations, prejudice, or discrimination. What we need is love, the purest form of reverence to God, to guide us and inspire hope.

Just love.

Ultimately, our love for humanity is our highest reverence for God. It's a love that transcends religious boundaries and unites us all. It's a love that inspires us to be better, to do better, and to create a world of understanding and respect. 

So it is.

©️ 2020 Del Cusay

A Hopeful Easter

In the absence of fear, we live with courage and hope. This happening in this world, where we live with uncertainty, is a test of faith and our humanity.

The holy week that we celebrated was a profound spiritual journey, a new world experience that transcended the physical plane of existence. It was a time of reflection, prayer, and renewal, a journey that took us to a different dimension of our faith.

Even during lockdown and quarantine, we are blessed to have the means to express our faith digitally. The online world has allowed us to celebrate the Holy Mass through streaming and live broadcasts, connecting us with different parishes in the Philippines and the Holy See in the Vatican.

Our Parish Priests, Bishops, and the Pope sent us a message of hope in these times of global crisis. We are not alone, and God is with us in all these trials. 

God may not show his wrath, but we are tested with perseverance, endurance, the will to abide faithfully, and the will to survive.

We learn to return to what is essential for our survival. We connect with nature and live in a natural world without too much noise, stress, and fast-paced living.

Take it slow. Recognize the wonderful nature around you. Touch the soil. Go barefoot outdoors. Take a deep breath. Watch the sunrise and the sunset. Have a glimpse of stars and the galaxy. Listen to the sound of silence. Meditate. These are the messages I received and the fulfillment of my heart's desire. 

Each of us receives different messages from the Divine. In times of solitude, we can open our hearts to these messages, finding reassurance and hope in them. 

As we continue to learn how to live in this new world, a world reshaped by the global crisis, Easter gives us a message of hope. We hope we will adapt to the recent changes in the earth. We hope to be protected and healed. We hope for a better world. By God's will and grace, we will hold on. Not to surrender, and never to give up. For our hope is more significant than our worldly desires. For our hope is beyond physical. It is eternal.

© 2020 Del Cusay

Holy Week 2020: Faith in Uncertain Times

In observance of Holy Week, we focus our energies and strength on the solemnity of Christ's passion, death, and coming resurrection. 

We leave our worries behind. That's the most respectful thing we can do since we live by Christ's promises. GOD is in control, and we put our trust and faith in Him.

This year's Lenten season and Holy Week hold a unique significance. It's a time we haven't experienced in decades, a time when we are confined to our homes and celebrate masses through live TV broadcasts. We can't partake in the Good Friday procession or celebrate Easter with the usual freedom of expression. Yet, these limitations offer us a chance to find new ways to express our love and gratitude.

During this Lenten season, families celebrate Sunday Holy Mass at home, we do the virtual Visita Iglesia online, and we get to kneel on our Holy Altar at home.

This year, we can't go to places on a pilgrimage. We can't show our love through hugs and kisses, but we offer a different kind of love in the distance. To show love to people, we need to keep our distance. A tough love.

Despite the uncertainties we face, we find comfort in the love shared by the religious leaders of God. Our Pope, Bishops, and Priests are there, ensuring our spiritual needs are met and reminding us of God's enduring love.

We can gather with our family at home and listen to God's words. We can also light a candle and offer a prayer. 

As I make my Holy Week retreat in our sky garden, I can see, hear, and feel God's Holiness and loving presence through His natural creations and masterpieces. We have been blessed to live in a natural sanctuary of solemnity and solitude to experience God's Divinity.

He is not absent; He is there with us in the comfort of our homes, wrapped in His loving arms. He is forever in our hearts and transforms our lives.

Yes, we may be living in this time of uncertainty, but we are learning to slow down, to live in stillness, and to notice and appreciate even the little things that matter in our lives.

On this Good Friday, we continue to pray and observe the Holy Burial through the Holy image of the Santo Entierro. We believe that Christ has died to save humanity. Its significance lies in our personal experience and journey when He reveals His Holiness to us.

May this silence and solitude of Holy Week be a time for us to pause and reflect. It's an opportunity to realign our hopes and dreams, to reassess what truly matters and holds value in our lives. This is a crucial moment to listen to our inner voice and steer our lives towards a more meaningful path.

© 2020 Del Cusay

Related Post:

👉 Holy Week 2019: Our Personal Journey to Calvary

Welcoming Both The Darkness and The Light

When there is darkness, only light. That's one statement from a soulful prayer to St. Francis of Assisi.

Today, the world is in darkness. Humanity is suffering from the worst of God's wrath. We all suffer, the good and the bad.

We may ask ourselves, why does God allow us to suffer? Why does God put us into the darkness? If God is the world's light, why does He allow the destruction of humanity and the world?

The good and the bad are opposing qualities we possess and experience in our lifetime. Hence, bad things happen to good people, and bad people continue to live to spread the darkness of the soul.

We are good in nature, but God allows us to experience the dark side to decipher the truth and appreciate the light. If there is no darkness, there could be no light. This is the same as saying we are good because we refuse to be wrong and embrace the light.

We can't say we are perfect in our lives. We make mistakes or sins in our thoughts, words, and actions. Subsconsciously, we harm others with our intentions. We have the tendency to harm other living beings and disobey higher beings.

That's human nature. As long as we live, we continue to dwell on the darkness and the light. But, in the end, we choose to stay in the lightness of our being—the lightness of our soul and spirit.

We choose the light because we already know how it is to be in the dark. We choose to be good rather than evil because we don't want to be trapped in a world of endless suffering.

Remember, whatever we suffer at the present time is only temporary. The light is at the end of the tunnel, and we are heading in that direction. This too shall pass.

We experience the dark night of the soul. This time, no one is spared. Our collective experience is history to the darkness of humanity until we learn and get out of the dark. Remember, your suffering is my suffering, and your darkness is mine. We are all together, spiritually connected in our shared human experience.

Your suffering is my suffering, and your darkness is my darkness. That's what we are in the spiritual world: physically distant but spiritually connected.

This Palm Sunday, we welcome Christ's coming and his Divine presence in our hearts. He gives us darkness and can take it away from us. Then, we live to be the light in the world. We continue to be enlightened beings in this world.

© 2020 Del Cusay