ILOILO City – Even while stationed in the far-flung Gigantes Islands in Carles, Iloilo to celebrate Easter Sunday with the faithful there, Jaro Archbishop Midyphil Billones delivered a powerful message urging the faithful to renew their faith through a personal encounter with the risen Christ.
Billones emphasized that the true meaning of Easter lies not only in the celebration of the Resurrection but in the transformative experience of encountering the risen Savior — a moment that restores hope, strengthens belief, and inspires courage among believers.
He explained that the Resurrection is best understood through the experiences of biblical figures such as Mary Magdalene, Saint Thomas, and Saint Peter, whose lives were changed after encountering Christ.
“Amo ini ang akon pag-ampo sa inyo tanan like Mary Magdalene. In your grief when you encounter the risen Lord, may you find hope and living. For those who are with doubts like Saint Thomas, the doubter, when you encounter the risen Lord, may you experience faith, renewal of faith. And for those who are also experiencing fear like Saint Peter, may you experience the Lord who is risen and this generates courage and conviction in following the Lord. Nagapalangluya kita (but) when we encounter the risen Lord may we find renewed strength as committed disciples,” Billones said.
The archbishop underscored that just as the disciples were transformed by their encounter with Christ, today’s faithful are likewise called to rediscover their strength and commitment as followers, especially in times of grief, doubt, and fear.
He also noted that the Gigantes Islands are not only known for their rich marine resources such as scallops, lobsters, and dried fish, but also for the deep and enduring faith of their people.
Billones concluded his message by extending his Easter greetings to all members of the Archdiocese of Jaro, calling on them to embrace the spirit of renewal that comes with the Resurrection.
He wished the faithful a meaningful and hope-filled Easter Sunday as they continue their journey of faith./PN
