One topic that Fr. Francisco and I delved in, which I would like to share with you all, was regarding the issue of
apathy. Specifically,
religious apathy. In his words, apathy --and religious apathy was the very basis of the crumbling of society, it is in this aspect that absolutes are now being challenged, increases in violence, religious discrimination and moral diversion. Strong words, and most of all powerful in his message--which was based on Sacred Scripture. Tho we joked around here to bring some 'fun' in our very strong and serious conversation, his message was resilient. And I noticed that tho he and I were the ones talking, alot of people in the party were listening, eating and listening. I noticed this.
Fr. Francisco mentioned to me how the situation in Spain was grave; that the church there was in a situation where the youth are not as religious anymore. He did say that that was the very basis for the catholic re-evangelization in Europe, most especially in areas that are ideally catholic. The past 5 years, he said, there has been a surge in catholic revival; the youth are coming back to the fold.
And one thing that he truly appreciated and enjoyed in the Philippines was the sense of Catholic Steadfastness in the people; which he wishes were as strong in Spain. He surprised me with a saying:
"5 centuries ago, it was the Spaniards that spread the Christian faith in the Philippines, but 5 centuries later it is the Filipinos and Philippines that are teaching us how Catholic Lifestyle is supposed to be--and we want that again. So we are re-evangelizing each other."
I could not help but smile and listen intently to his message.
We delved much into the importance of retaining the faith, the importance of understanding biblical scripture , and talked about what changes could be seen in government (in Spain as well as in the Philippines). He asked me about my family, my friends, and my personal patron saint. I never knew such a man who was so intent in getting to know a person so deeply as Fr. Francisco; and we both learned much from each other in a brief span of 4-5 hours.
There is truly something about meeting a man whom feels, thinks, and believes so strongly about something as one does--it provides this spiritual awakening--or enlightening of ideals like never before. I do truly believe that he was sent to me by the Holy Spirit, and he did exactly what he came to do in the Philippines. He helped in evangelizing the faith of people, myself included.
Wherever your paths may lead you, Fr. Francisco, I pray to the Judgment seat of Christ that you are continually protected, guided, and empowered to preach the Gospel of Christ and to continue to spread the Message of the Church for the Glory of Christ.
Amen. God Bless You!
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