To avoid confrontation about religion, I have always been mum about my beliefs. I have decided to keep that part of me to show respect to others since I know that with my assertive (and sometimes aggressive) personality combined with my contentious tongue, once the topic of religious beliefs are brought to surface, there will be no stopping me to discussing the Biblical bases of our doctrines which some of the people I have mingled with question in arrogance or in simple inquiry. I do not wish to talk about our doctrines in this blog. As a matter of fact, I leave Biblical interpretation to our ministers. While I know and understand really well (bragging aside) some of the complicated doctrines of our Church versus the doctrines of others, my simple reply to people who question me is an invitation to listen to our gawain (activities) or attend our pagsamba (worship service).
I have also kept my post about my faith to a minimal because I know that I will not be able to keep quiet if my religious posts attract detractors (I will ensure by the way that the rules of logic would crush them to pieces and man, don't try me, I know how to do it well). Also, a part of me tells me that some of my dispositions may not be actions worthy or deserving to be associated with my beloved Church.
But this is the Centennial year of our Church and so I will make an exception.
Let me tell the whole world that my heart overwhelms with joy and love to my life, and to my Church; that for almost a week now, I have been crying because I feel His Holy Spirit each time I close my eyes and pray; that as I type these words, I'm teary-eyed because I feel protected, I feel loved, I feel forgiven and brothers and sisters around the world unite with this feeling; that as I sit silently in my apartment, I stalk other brothers' and sisters' social media accounts because it pleases me to know that in this silence, I am one with them; that in this silence, I hear firecrackers even if I am in QC (as if the wind is carrying the sound for me to hear); that when I prayed just a while ago I cried as I exalted (and still exalt) His Holy Name; that I look back and realise how the Church has grown from a nipa hut to the Philippine Arena; that I have always been inspired that this Church has always been one of the firsts to be there for the victims of Yolanda, or Haiyan and we extend our help to whomever needs one; that this Church, the Church of Christ, no matter how others have tried to destroy and put down, still stands higher than all its Churches, higher than all of us.
A previous student messaged me on FB, "... do you believe religion is still relevant today?"
Quickly I babbled (some parts omitted and rephrased), "Yes. Of course, Imagine a world without religion. No one would help us develop spirituality. Religion, no matter what it is, encourages belief in God, the Supreme Being. Without this, encouragement, the world would be filled with godless humanity. Should we allow that to happen?... Without religion, fear of sinning would be lesser. Without religion, people would be less connected to whomever their Supreme Being is and that would result to chaos. There's a reason why the State protects the right to religion. It is because religion contributes to social welfare and wellbeing of mankind.
So for those who feel they don't need a religion, maybe you need this one. You are invited. Just listen then decide.
And if you are a detractor wanting to comment negatively to this article, go ahead. Bring it on. Our Church and its members are still marching forward to ciudad de victoria (city of victory). (Image grabbed from Eagle News PH.)
