GRADUATING ARTLETS must continue spreading love in an “exhausted” society instead of stressing over competition and recognition beyond the arch, the Faculty of Arts and Letters regent said.
In a homily dedicated to graduating students of the faculty, Fr. George Phe Mang, O.P. reminded seniors to acquire a vocation of compassion and integrity despite the uncertainties brought by the end of their college journey.
“Our vocation is to become a person who brings light, who brings the truth, who brings compassion and integrity into the society. And honestly, the world desperately needs that kind of person right now,” Phe Mang told graduating Artlets at the UST Santísimo Rosario Parish on Friday, May 8.
Phe Mang explained how today’s society is abundant with successful, educated and socialized people who feel lonely, exhausted and lacking in wisdom. According to him, this culture makes graduates adopt more pressure than happiness on the thought of graduation.
“There is so much competition, so much comparison, and so much pressure to prove your worth,” he said.
Citing Christ’s message to his disciples to “love one another,” the regent said that the vocation to care for others weighs heavier in life than excelling in a profession, believing that it could challenge the persisting culture of pressure among the youth.
“Some of you may become teachers, some might become writers, researchers, lawyers, artists, communicators, public servants or professionals in many different areas — but whatever life brings you, Christ reminds us today that our vocation is bigger than a career,” he added.
“The world may ask you, what can you achieve? But today, Christ asks us: how will you love?”
Phe Mang urged Artlets seniors to not lose their ability to love and muster courage at the face of uncertainty, as love is greater than the fear and failures they may endure in the future.
“Your worth does not depend on awards, salaries or honors. After this graduation, your worth begins with this truth: you are loved by God,” he said.
“And in the end, love matters most. Because, according to St. Paul, faithfulness and love at their greatest is love. For through love, we seek love.”
The University will have its much anticipated Baccalaureate Mass on May 29, while the Faculty of Arts and Letters will hold its solemn investiture rites on June 8. F
