By Agenzia Fides
Dec 7 2020
MANILA – The main path of evangelization for Christians in Asia, in the time marked by the pandemic, is “to promote love for the Word of God”: this is what was stated in the “Word Conference 2020” organized in past days by Claretian missionaries in the Philippines and followed, online, by priests, religious and lay people from all over the country. The theme was “Word and adoration” said Father Julius Jose Coching, Executive Director of the Claretian Communications Foundation, promoter of the event, to Agenzia Fides. The aim of the conference was to offer a path of spiritual and missionary support to the faithful in this health crisis.
The Bishop of Cabanatuan, Mgr. Sofronio A. Bancud, President of the Episcopal Commission for the Biblical Apostolate, speaking at the conference, invited the faithful “to be inspired by the Word of God in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic”. The Bishop encouraged the participants to promote the Word of God in their respective communities: “The pandemic must not undermine the mission of proclaiming God’s unconditional love for all. With Jesus Christ, the Word made flesh, we are sure that we will never be alone even in the darkest days of our lives”.
The Bishop of Cubao, Msg. Honesto F. Ongtioco also encouraged the faithful to reflect on the Word of God,” light of hope in these uncertain times”, inviting them “to deepen the love for the Scripture which is the living Word of God”.
“2020 has been characterized by numerous tragic events, such as the pandemic. In the midst of these events, the Word of God is a solid point of reference, offering refuge, protection and salvation”, underlined Fr. Elias L. Ayuban Jr, Provincial Superior of the Claretians in the Philippines.
“Although the churches are closed and we miss the liturgical celebrations, we adore and praise God by drawing closer to the Word of God and to those in need in our daily life”, said Angeline Ong, a lay participant. (SD-PA) (Agenzia Fides, 4/12/2020)
