ASIDE FROM the anomalies in “ghost” flood control projects, Catholics must fear having “ghost conscience” or developing apathy toward issues in the community, as they are called to stand firm together in times of trials.
Archdiocese of Manila Chancellor Fr. Carmelo Arada, Jr. urged Catholics to uphold solidarity and become agents of communion, saying being indifferent to others’ pain is far more terrifying than the issues of corruption hounding the nation.
“There are many ghosts these days. Ghost projects. But there is something more terrifying, ghost conscience. When there is no more awareness and no more feeling, there is no more love,” Arada said in his homily during the enthronement mass in honor of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary of UST.
Catholics, Arada added, must stand up even in moments of trial the same way the Virgin Mary did not collapse, run away or hide despite chaos, pain, anger and fear. He pointed out that even during the death of Jesus, Mary gathered the women and beloved disciples at the foot of the cross in a stance of love.
Mary was also present with the disciples at Pentecost as they waited for the coming of the Spirit despite fear and persecution, the priest noted.
“Mary is an agent of communion. Mary is always with us to promote solidarity, unity, love among us,” he said.
People, Arada said, turn to their mothers whenever they are hurt, tired, or ready to give up on life, so believers should strive to be like Mary — someone others can also turn to for comfort.
“May we also be a place of rest for others. May we also be someone they can run to so they can experience God’s love and the motherly embrace of Mary,” he said.
The Santisimo Rosario Parish held the enthronement rites in honor of the Nuestra Señora del Santisimo Rosario, the patroness of the University’s parish, on Thursday, Sept. 25. The event marks the annual festivities in honor of the patroness and queen of UST. F — M. A. Selda
