Religious masses and services should go on

CONSIDERING the scant permission granted by the Inter-Agency Task Force, masses are now being held with the usual restrictions and health protocols.

At the Our Lady of Grace Parish where I went to mass one Sunday, I have to undergo the usual paperwork; temperature taken via thermal scanning, health form accomplished and an usherette guiding me to the first pew of the church where few people sat at a distance on the pews.

Truly, churches observe religiously the health protocols imposed by the IATF, which virtually controls nowadays our movement, behavior and even lifestyle.

Gone are the choir singers who dished out animated hymns of Gloria in Excelsis and Hosanna.

Fr. Jose Lacap, the parish priest of our Lady of Grace Parish, obediently officiates masses which normally start at 6 a.m. Fr. Lacap, of course, rues the scant attendance of parishioners who usually crowd the church's interior before the pandemic. Now, only sparse attendees inhabit the church, translating into fewer offerings.

Other services by the Born Again denomination also hold their service to their adherents. Same with the Iglesia ni Cristo, which attendance has also been affected by the pandemic. And the tithes? Of course, they have become less in volume.

My good friend Guy "Indra" Hilbero sent me this inspiring statement: "Clouds may block the brightness of the sun but it can never suppress its light. In life, problems may dim the light of your day but it can never stop the promised brightness of tomorrow. God cares for you, yesterday, today and forever. Enjoy life for it is a blessing and a gift from God. But live life for His glory and in His will." I say Amen to these words.

Such inspiring statements from a friend in the face of this crisis. I wish Guy the best of everything. He has his family in Bremen, Germany.

***

One thing that gives me satisfaction every time I visit SM San Fernando Downtown. Its mall manager Lana Geroba is always very accommodating. Last time I visited with the acquiescence of senior assistant Vice President Junias Eusebio, of course, she assigned Anika Sambo Simbulan to assist me. This marketing officer is likewise very warm and accommodating and very pleasant to talk with. Thanks, guys!

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