Finding Jesus in Our Church Leaders, by Sis Mary Ann Roxas

The Leadership Talk with Bro. Rommel Reyes last December 11, 2024 was very telling of parish life, and common issues that members and church leaders face alike in their service to the Lord. Though presented in a comical and witty way, all who attended could relate to a lot of situations that were brought up - mostly wrongdoings of church workers. And what a blessing it is for the gift of humor, isn’t it, especially when having to consider unpleasant matters? 

In my interior, I am reminded of the number of people I know whose lives have changed for the worse due to the more harmful acts of our fellow church workers. Gossip or 'siraan' is the worst. Imagine the heart of a parishioner who wants to offer himself and serve the Lord, but instead of finding comfort, nourishment, and fraternal correction, if necessary, encounters so much judgement, hate, and negativity from the very lips of the people around him. Is it still a wonder why out of our 76K parishioners, only about 500 volunteer to serve? I myself have come to question the goodness of parish life at one point. Is it still a good thing to invite people, especially children, to become involved in their bigger family, the Church?

The answer is YES. The Parish Community that knows how to love like Jesus is a blessing to all. It will take each and every one of us to strive to step out of our comfort zones and contribute to this ideal community. We can do this by being responsible for our own prayer life, following God's commandments, ensuring justice for our brothers and sisters, getting to know our neighbors, providing help where it is needed, sharing our talents and treasures, to name a few. The list is endless, there is just so much to do. Yet it is here where good leaders can help us.  

As we transition to a new set of officers under the headship of our beloved Parish Priest, Fr. Joseph Santos, let us pray for servant leaders that possess the qualities of the Heart of Jesus, not just in mercy and compassion, but also in beauty and order.

Our Father..  Hail Mary..  Glory be.. 

Most Holy Family, we love You! Save souls!

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Sis Mary Ann Roxas is the Coordinator of the Worship Ministry, and member of the Parish Basic Ecclesial Communities.