
Launching of Love Our Pope Movement - Eucharistic Celebration Love our Pope; Love our Church!
October 10, 2023
On September 30, 2023, from 5:00 to 6:00 PM, the SMMS community, comprising Campus Ministry Club Members from Elementary level to Senior High School level together with the Christian Values Integration Office (CVIO) Coordinators, joined the launching of "Love our Pope" movement to express love and support for the Pope. It was held at the Parish of the Holy Family, Lancaster New City, Alapan II-B, Imus City wherein Bishop Rey Evangelista presided the Eucharistic celebration.
A movement fortifying the spiritual connection and admiration for the “Love Our Pope” advocating for universal values like love and empathy! St. Mary Magdalene (Parochial) School joined the Eucharistic celebration of the launching of “Love Our Pope Movement”, transcending religious and celebrates the Pope's role as a symbol of hope and moral guidance, and global beacon of compassion and unity.
Thereafter, Bishop Rey Evangelista officiated the mass. He acknowledged Father Alain P. Manalo of the Holy Family Parish and Father King Peñaranda, the Diocesan coordinator of the international Love Our Pope Movement, in his homily. All of the Imus Diocese's Catholic schools, government officials, and viewers of live streaming were also recognized.
Bishop Rey Evangelista elucidated the gospels reading and the lesson it implies which circulates in the questions, Alin ba tayo sa dalawang tanong na ito, “Sumusunod pero nagrereklamo o aayaw pero susunod din naman?” “Si Hesus ay sinugo ng Diyos Ama at pinababa sa lupa para iligtas ang sangkatauhan. Ang panginoong Hesus ay sumunod at iniwan ang Kan’yang pagka-Diyos at naging tao kagaya natin para tayo’y iligtas sa pagiging makasalanan. “Jesus obey the father and fulfill the will of the father by offering his life on the cross.” Siya ang dapat tularan natin, tayo ay dapat maging masunurin at ‘wag pasaway. Ang gusto ng Diyos ay tayo ay tumupad sa ipinag-uutos Niya”.
Moreover, the homily highlighted the love and support to our People along with the essence of unity, faith, and hope for our Pope.
Furthermore, the month of October holds particular significance in the Catholic calendar as it is the month dedicated to the Holy Rosary. It's a time when Catholics often intensify their prayers. Hence, Bishop Rey Evangelista encourages us to incorporate the pope in our prayers, which underscores his spiritual leadership and the role he plays in guiding the Church. In addition, he alluded the Latin word of St. Ambrose, “Ubi Petrus, Ibi Ecclesia, that means where Peter is, there is the Church.” The pope is the visible head of the church.
The "Love Our Pope movement” reminds us of our shared humanity and our collective ability to make the world a better place. This movement continues to inspire individuals and communities, proving that love is a force that can transcend all barriers.
Article Written By: Mr. Romulo B. Zabala, Jr. - English Teacher
Photo from: SMMS Christian Values Integration Office