On the first day of the Misa de Gallo, Manila Archbishop Jose F. Cardinal Advincula urged the people to welcome those who want to be part of the church.
He has a simple message, the prelate said in his homily delivered at the Manila Cathedral early Tuesday morning, that everyone has a place in the church.
“Ang Simbang Gabi ay isang makahulugang tradisyon sa Katolikong Pilipino, sa loob ng siyam na araw inhahanada natin ang sarili sa pagdating ng ating taga pagligtas,” the Cardinal said.
(Simbang Gabi is a meaningful tradition among Filipino Catholics, for nine days we prepare ourselves for the arrival of our savior.)
“Habang papalapit ang Pasko, nakikipaglakbay tayo kay Maria at hinihiling ang panalaging na tulungan tayo tanggapin ang kanyang anak sa ating puso,” he added.
(As Christmas approaches, we journey with Mary and ask her to always help us welcome her son into our hearts.)
He underscored that his message is simple, that is, to let people know that everyone has a place in the Church.
The people who are entering the church for the first time, are warmly welcomed. Those who have been away from the Church and choose to return are whole heartedly welcome too. And so it is for those who carry a burden or are heartbroken.
“Ang simbahan ay hindi lamang sa nag-aakalang karapat dapat,” said Advincula.
(The church is not just for those who think they deserve be there.)
The people who want to join the church and follow Christ should be welcomed.
He said that people tend to shun those who cause pain or we accept only those who agree with us.
This attitude will only cause more division and that people feel isolated that they tend to stop going to the church or hearing mass.
“There are times that our world is small because we protect ourselves, but the heart of God is not small. God wants everyone to be near Him,” the prelate said in Filipino.
“Let us ask that our hearts open our hearts that we may become a united church… that reflects the love of Jesus Christ,” he added. — BAP, GMA Integrated News
