Editorial: ‘Totus Tuus’ for the workers, the poor and the family

Monday, February 13, 2012

WE CELEBRATE starting today until February 20 the Totus Tuus! Week to commemorate the historic visit of the late Pope John Paul II in Bacolod City last February 20, 1981.

The Pope came at a time when Negros was reeling from economic hardships and military repression which fueled the communist insurgency which enjoyed the widespread support of the impoverished peasants and workers.

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Pope John Paul II did not hide his partiality for the working man and the poor who, at that time, look at the insurgents as their only ally and shelter against the abuses of the privileged and the high and mighty in government.

"Injustice reigns when the laws of economic growth and ever greater profit determine social relations, leaving in poverty and destitution those who have only the work of their hands to offer. The church will not hesitate to take up the cause of the poor and to become the voice of those who are not listened to when they speak up, not to demand charity, but to ask for justice."

Strong words, indeed, from a mild-mannered man whose presence exudes holiness, warmth and love for his flock. Yet, the pope made no hesitation in standing up for the workers and the poor.

Pope John Paul II offered a ray of hope to Negrenses who were wallowing in the darkness of social disenchantment and military dictatorship. His presence gave Negrenses the assurance that, in His time, the social, economic and political scenario would turn out right.

Only a closed mind will insist that the situation of the workers and the poor did not improve since the late pontiff visited Bacolod 31 years ago. Still, much is left to be desired in this aspect.

Another advocacy of the Holy Father is the sanctity of marriage and family. Towards this end, the Vatican established the John Paul II Pontifical Institute for Studies on Marriage and Family. Negrenses should feel blessed that we have one such institute, the John Paul II National Institute for Studies on Marriage and Family, right here in Bacolod.

“Family is the wealth of society. We cannot serve as children of God if we don’t know what it is to be a child and a son… what it is to be born in a home, in a family?,” said Rev. Fr. Jose Granados yesterday.

Fr. Granados is the vice-president of the Vatican-based John Paul II Pontifical Institute for Studies on Marriage and Family. He is here to take part in the national conference titled “Blessed John Paul II’s Nuptial Theology: Call to Family Ministry, Agenda for Humanity” which also kicks off today.

As we celebrate ‘Totus Tuus! Week, may we all be inspired by Pope John Paull II to embrace Totus Tuus’, a Latin phrase for “All Yours!” or “Completely Yours!” for our workers, the poor among our midst and for our families.