1. Openness to Change
I, indeed, realize the truth of what Rev. Fr. Teilhard de Chardin,SJ, said in his book, ‘The Phenomenon of Man’ that this world is constantly in the process of evolution, that the Church itself is in evolution, and that man himself is ‘Evolution becoming conscious of himself’. This reality calls for constant RENEWAL – to make things new again.
I, for one, have undergone the following Renewal Programs: The Life in the Spirit Seminar (LSS), the Marriage Encounter (ME) and the Parish Renewal Experience (PREX) Seminar. The said programs have renewed my Christian Faith, particularly in the way I should relate to God and my fellowmen. These have made me aware of God’s unconditional love for men, and of all men’s equality in dignity in the eyes of God. While we still have to give due respect especially to those in authority, we, nevertheless, have to maintain our dignity as children of God, which is the same for all men, regardless of their positions in this world.
2. Adaptability
Adaptations have to be made to conform to changes in perceptions or present realities. As an example, the Church itself has made an adaptation in the way the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is celebrated. Years back, the Priest Celebrant has his back turned to the people during the celebration of the Holy Mass. Since 1965, after Vatican II, which views the Church as the People of God, the Priest Celebrant now faces the people, signifying his being one with them. Now therefore, knowing that the Holy Mass is a Community Public Worship of God, I participate in the Mass by praying and singing together with the people instead of doing my own private prayers. I also strive to see how I could help in my own community, since this is where God wants me to serve as a member of a Basic Ecclesial Community.
3. Discernment
In any situation one could be faced with several options as a course of action. Hence, one needs to discern which course of action he should take to address the situation. As for me, the process of discernment usually begins with a prayer, asking for enlightenment from the Holy Spirit. Then, after sizing up the situation, and motivated by the desire to always do whatever would be in accordance with the Will of God, I make a decision which enables me to do what I could possibly do under the circumstances and leave to God the rest.
We, indeed, live in a CHANGING WORLD. so I see the wisdom of Fr. Horacio de la Costa’s advice to cope with change, by OPENNESS TO CHANGE, TO ADAPT TO THE CHALLENGES OF CHANGE, and TO DISCERN THE BEST OPTION TO MEET THE REALITY OF CHANGE.
by: Salvador 'Buddy' Cagurangan
July 17, 2011
July 17, 2011
