Persecuted Christians: You Are Not Forgotten!

In the countryside where the flame of unity and sharing refuse to die among relatives and friends, one is sometimes scolded for being stingy for not sharing a delicious food to a less fortunate other.

There might be a case like that last Christmas during the noche buena (traditional meal after the Midnight Mass) when the spirit of Christ’s nativity was at its peak. There is no better or happier news that must be shared in learning that the Most Powerful is born to defeat sin and give us hope. We must tell to believers and unbelievers alike that Jesus of Nazareth is here to save, love and protect us.

Sadly, in different parts of the world, in West Java, Indonesia; Nigeria, Iraq, right here in our country in Jolo, our Catholic brethren suffered violence and persecution.*

Here in Ilocos, we are fortunate to have our centuries-old churches as the venue of liturgical celebration this Christmas while in West Java, it is in a parking lot and under the tree!

Well, the essence of the Mass does not change whether it is said inside a Basilica or National Shrine or under the tree. If I were in West Java participating in that Mass, I would find the Mass even more meaningful. Despite being threatened because of my faith and in freely exercising it, I risk my life to receive my Maker in the Eucharist. How many times police and firefighters are called heroes after risking their lives for a cause? Are believers risking their lives because of their faith less worthy to be called heroes?

I don’t think so.

True, we have freedom of religion and the free exercise thereof in this country but I doubt if that concept rings true in some parts of Mindanao. And if the purpose of all religions is to transform man into a “living saint” so to speak, why are Catholics and other Christians threatened if not silenced? I don’t think that there is any religion that embraces violence as one of its norms.

There’s nothing new. From the time the first Christians were persecuted, all who gave up their lives in the name of faith are all recognized and since then, Christians always outlived their persecutors. Thus, there is no reason to believe that persecutors this time will outlive Christians. “The spilled blood of the martyrs,” preachers teach “are the seeds of faith”.

For all Christians enjoying full freedom of religion and its free exercise, wherever you are, take a time remembering our unfortunate brothers and sisters in faith who are under threat or in fear in giving due to the Almighty. Let us not forget them and in case they go to the gallows they  too remember us before the Lord.

For the persecuted Christians, in case you read this, remain steadfast in your faith and be not afraid. There is a much better place than where you are at the moment --- a place where there is no more  persecution or violence but perpetual bliss.

In the midst of our merriment and festivities in the free world, you, persecuted Christian brethren are not forgotten! -30-

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* Please visit http://catholicdefender2000.blogspot.com/search/label/Persecuted%20Church for further reading.