Sentidokomon

By Carmen Llauderes – (TP-February)We all have our different opinions on certain issues which are happening around us. I joined a religious group so during day offs, I see to it that I am in the Church. Attending the mass is how most of us Catholics spend the early day on Sundays. We can see migrant workers coming to the Church to start their day. On the other hand, I take note of myself being involved in the media as well, thus this urge of putting out my own personal opinion about something which I believe is of general interest is always present in me. The Filipino community is happy to have a Filipino Priest in Cyprus. In previous Sundays I heard lots of comments from most parishioners regarding his way of celebrating the mass. Majority said that it is boring enough to make them feel sleepy. ” I can’t understand what is he talking about, he keeps reading with an elongated explanations. Hope he would try to do better in spreading the word of God so the mass celebration would not appear lifeless,” said by one of the religious leaders.

I straight away informed the priest about these observations through a telephone interview last February 2 to hear the side of Fr. Andrew. He started by saying, ”Yes I have heard those observations and criticisms but it’s ok with me, I’m just fine about it. Anyway I can’t do anything because it’s their opinion. I just consider these something from God.” He stressed that, ” Whenever I presided a mass I don’t need to get an approval from anyone nor please them but to please God. If I would I might sound like a false prophet, Fr. Andrew continued, “If I want to please people I could have just get married and be happy but it’s not, I became a priest. ” So whenever I say the mass I thank and glorify God and not anyone else. As far as I am concerned as a priest I am doing my best for God’s greater glory. As for the parishioners you come to the church not for the priest but for your faith to worship God and for thanksgiving,” he ended. Rev. Father Andrew Verdote wishes everyone a good health in their respective employment.

My personal comment? I agree with what he said of not getting approval from people, but then again as far as being a priest, I believe that he has the duty to enlighten and the responsibility to inspire the parishioners. Malaking bagay para sa nagsisimba ang maintindihan at maunawaan ang sermon para magamit niya sa pagpapatibay ng kanyang pananampalataya sa Diyos. So sana sa puntong ito magkaroon ng improvement. Amen.