On May 17, 2024, the Dehonian Priests celebrated 35 years in the Philippines. O Clarim interviewed Fr. Donald Longno, SCJ, and Fr. Rechie Gier, SCJ, who marked 20 years of religious profession, and the new regional superior, Fr. Niño Etulle, SCJ. They discussed community life, their charism of “love and reparation,” mission growth, international collaboration, and social apostolate. Fr. Etulle also addressed challenges in vocational ministry, emphasizing the importance of mental health and ongoing education.
Tag: Philippines
Is the Philippines edging closer to legalizing divorce despite Church objections?
The Philippines, one of the last countries where divorce is illegal, is seeing renewed efforts to legalize it. Despite strong opposition from the Catholic Church, which argues that divorce undermines marriage, the House of Representatives recently passed a bill allowing divorce in limited cases. Proponents argue it’s needed for those in abusive marriages, while opponents, including Church leaders, believe it weakens marital commitment and fails to address the root causes of domestic violence.
In the name of our “common home”
Catholic priest Fr Edwin Gariguez and others push to protect the Verde Island Passage in the Philippines, aiming to safeguard biodiversity and assist affected fishing communities after an oil spill. The Catholic Bishops’ Conference also calls for justice and opposes industrial plans, advocating for ecological integrity and fishermen’s rights.
Recognizing Christ in the Children
In the heart of a bustling city, amidst the daily routines and responsibilities, there exists a group of compassionate souls dedicated to serving the most vulnerable members of their community. Amidst their selfless efforts, they find profound joy and fulfillment, recognizing the presence of Christ in the faces of the children they serve.
Blessed Milestone: Antipolo Cathedral Declared First International Shrine in the Philippines
In a historic moment for the Philippines and Southeast Asia, the Antipolo Cathedral, officially known as the National Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage, has been elevated to the esteemed status of an International Shrine. This unprecedented recognition, declared on January 26, 2024, marks the cathedral as a beacon of spiritual significance not only within the Philippines but across the entire region.
Solace Amidst Life’s Trials and Challenges
Traditionally observed every third Sunday of January in the Philippines, the feast of the Santo Niño (Holy Child Jesus) is special for the Filipinos. The devotion is also extended to Macau. It is for this reason that the Sunday masses after Epiphany are devoted to Santo Niño.
The resilience of the spirit of tolerance and dialogue
The pain and shock caused by the terrorist attack that hit the Catholic community on December 3 in a predominantly Muslim province on the island of Mindanao will not impede the path of dialogue and the construction of peaceful coexistence in the south of the Philippines, say Catholic leaders in the region.
Sea Sunday celebrations
The life of a seafarer is a hard one. Only prayer can truly allow those who work at sea the ability to connect with heaven amidst the difficulties of life and seek spiritual and temporal graces.
Comfort and strength for those most in need
The historic devotion to Our Lady of Consolation will continue in the Archdiocese of Manila, most especially at the Shrine of St. Augustine in Intramuros. The archdiocese also aims to aid the needy devotees of the Blessed Mother through an apostolate service that will equip them to be self-reliant.
The Church and the Youth Universe: International Youth Ministry Conference in Manila Focuses on the Need to Accompany the Young
The International Youth Ministry Conference was held at the University of Manila, Philippines, from April 13-15. The event brought together over 700 participants from 30 countries to explore the relationship between the church and young people, the importance of pastoral care, and the ways the laity and the church hierarchy can best serve them. The conference emphasized the need for constant monitoring and attentive accompaniment of young people.