Busy, busy

It's December. I was not able to live up to posting regularly in this blog. I never run out of things to do that posting a few words seems to be always at the bottom of my priorities. I guess I should manage my time well in the future.

Anyway, December has always been my busiest month. Activities are all over not to mention shopping for Christmas. I have never been fond of Christmas shopping as malls are often crowded and traffic snarls are everywhere. Besides, it only shows how commercialized Christmas is.

When I was in Africa, there's not a trace yet of Christmas around this time. Maybe in the capital where there are already malls and brand name shops. Otherwise, it is just the simple life there. No Christmas lights, no decorations.

It is simply preparing ourselves for the awaited day when a baby was born in a manger, of humble beginnings and yet the Savior of the world.

The Advent season gives us the opportunity to make a place in our hearts for His coming. Keep watch for the time is near...

Memorial of St. Monica

Arriving in Africa two years ago, I was totally clueless about what to expect. My place of assignment was a long drive from the capital. After the road trip along mountains and forest that seemed endless, my eyes caught a small structure by the roadside. It is a simple hut with grass roof and walls that were probably made from mud. Written on the front wall was "St. Monica Chapel". Then my would-be-colleague said we are nearing our destination. What a nice way to welcome me.

Henceforth, everytime I travel to the capital or to visit a friend in the adjoining town, I would look for that chapel along the road, a solitary hut amidst the thick forest and vast areas of land. I know St. Monica is looking after me.





Dear St. Monica,
troubled wife and mother,
many sorrows pierced your heart during your lifetime.
Yet, you never despaired or lost faith.
With confidence, persistence, and profound faith,
you prayed daily for the conversion
of your beloved husband, Patricius,
and your beloved son, Augustine;
your prayers were answered.
Grant me that same fortitude, patience,
and trust in the Lord.
Intercede for me, dear St. Monica,
that God may favorably hear my plea for

(Mention your intention here.)

and grant me the grace to accept His Will in all things,
through Jesus Christ, our Lord,
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, forever and ever.

Amen.

Novena to St. Augustine

Even before I went to Africa, I have already been a devotee of St. Augustine. I was particularly impressed by his life story of conversion that I believe he would make a strong intercessor for those who are still lost in this world.

Two years ago, we picked our patron saints in the choir. Or is it the other way around? The Saints picking their wards. St. Monica was my patron saint. I looked at it as a confirmation of my plan to go to Africa. I entrusted myself to the prayers of St. Monica and St. Augustine as I explore a different world.

I came across this Novena to St. Augustine. Let us all pray the novena in preparation for his feast on August 28.

Pope Benedict's Prayer Intentions for August

I know we have only a few days remaining in August. However, let us all join the Pope for the folllowing prayer intentions:

General Intention:

"That those who are without work or homes or who are otherwise in serious need may find understanding and welcome, as well as concrete help in overcoming their difficulties."

Apostolic Intention:

"That the Church may be a 'home' for all people, ready to open her doors to any who are suffering from racial or religious discrimination, hunger or wars forcing them to emigrate to other countries."

There are many people looking for work, I, myself included. In these difficult times, people are moving away for better oppportunities, notwithstanding deplorable conditions and even to the point of becoming illegal immigrants. Let us look at them with charity and love. We don't know the stories behind each and every one of them. It is no longer about comfort and luxury but the number of mouths to feed back home. Everybody is looking for the same things in life.

Still There?

I was out of the country for almost two years. A lot has changed. Though there are a few things that have remained the same since I left. The day after I got home, I surprised the choir I used to lead when I showed up for the Sunday mass. Nobody knew I am back. I went with my brother who took over my leadership the time I was gone. The choir still sings at the 9 AM mass. It's nice to see old familiar faces and new members as well. The priest who's usually assigned to that schedule is no longer around. There are new priests assisting the parish who are equally inspiring in their homilies.

I thank God for the old and the new. The old makes it easier to reconnect while the new gives me something to look forward to. It reminds us that nothing stays the same forever. We are all travellers walking the same path at one time or another.

At some point, we'll have to go on separate ways and then probably meet again further down the road. Regardless, let us cherish every moment as we hope to get to the same destination at the end of our journey.

Signing On

Has it been that long? I have finished my service in Africa. The challenges of getting online and the scarce resources kept me away from this blog. Though I have written some articles for posting, from time to time, I should just probably bring it up in my succeeding posts. I just feel they have become antiquated if not totally irrelevant. My experience away from home is just too enriching and pleasant not to share with others who might one day go the same journey.

Here I am settling back in my hometown. Hopefully, a lot wiser and a better person than before. See you around...