Prosperidad bishop calls for inclusive Holy Week: A celebration for all generations
By Niña Jonalyn B. Gambe-Diamante
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — As the Catholic faithful across Caraga prepare for the solemn observance of Holy Week, Bishop Ruben C. Labajo of the Diocese of Prosperidad reminds the community that the week-long commemoration of Christ’s passion is not reserved for the elderly alone, but is a spiritual journey meant for all ages.
“Ang atong kalihukan sa Holy Week is for everybody: para sa mga batan-on, tigulang, ug even the children (The observance of Holy Week is for everybody: for the youth, the elderly, and even the children),” Bishop Labajo emphasized, underscoring the importance of inclusivity in the celebration.
Holy Week for All Generations
The Diocese of Prosperidad, one of the three Catholic dioceses in Caraga, has been actively encouraging participation from the youth and children. Bishop Labajo highlighted the establishment of youth ministries in parishes and chapels, designed to engage younger members of the community in church activities. Even children are given roles on Easter Sunday, such as portraying angels in the reenactment of Jesus’ resurrection.
This initiative reflects the Church’s commitment to nurturing faith across generations, ensuring that the Holy Week observance remains vibrant and meaningful for the entire Catholic community.
A Celebration Amid Global Crisis
When asked about the impact of the ongoing Middle East crisis on the conduct of the religious celebration, Bishop Labajo acknowledged that this year’s Holy Week carries deeper significance. He noted that the suffering resulting from the global conflict resonates with the essence of Jesus’ passion.
“Para sa ako, mas meaningful ang atong selebrasyon karong tuiga sa Semana Santa tungod sa krisis nga atong giatubang. Nag-antos tanan tungod sa gubat, ug ang pag-antos mao ang core sa atong gisaulog—kining Passion of Christ” (For me, this year’s Holy Week celebration is made more meaningful due to the crisis we are currently facing.) We are suffering because of the current [Middle East] conflict, and this suffering is exactly the core of our celebration–the Passion of Christ, said Bishop Labajo.
The bishop encouraged the faithful to embrace the challenges of the present time with faith and resilience. While disappointment and anger over the economic crisis may be understandable, he urged believers to take up their cross and unite with Jesus’ suffering..
Strengthening Faith and Community
Bishop Labajo’s message serves as a reminder that Holy Week is not only a time of reflection but also an opportunity to strengthen communal bonds. By involving the youth and children, the Diocese of Prosperidad ensures that the traditions of Holy Week are passed on and lived out by future generations.
As the Caraga region, with its substantial Catholic population, enters into the solemn days of Holy Week, Bishop Labajo’s call echoes across parishes: to make the observance a shared journey of faith, hope, and renewal for all. (NJGD, PIA Caraga)
