ILOILO City — The Archdiocese of Jaro has called on Ilonggos to go beyond mere observance of Holy Week and instead actively live out the meaning of Christ’s suffering and sacrifice, stressing that faith must translate into reflection, compassion, and action — especially in times of crisis.
Fr. Angelo Colada, director and spokesperson of the Archdiocese of Jaro’s Commission on Social Communications, emphasized that Semana Santa should not be treated as a passive tradition but as a personal and spiritual encounter with the life of Jesus Christ.
“This is an opportunity for us to reconnect with the profound actions of our Lord,” he said.
“As we observe the events of His life, we are challenged to stand firmly on the truth, reminiscent of how the Son of God expressed His commitment to humanity,” he added.
The call came after the observance of Holy Week kicked off with Domingo de Ramos (Palm Sunday), marking the start of one of the most sacred periods in the Catholic calendar.
Colada, echoing the message of Jaro Archbishop Midyphil Billones, urged the faithful to see themselves as participants in Christ’s story rather than distant observers.
“During these days, may we reflect on our lives, consider the challenges we face, and commit ourselves to the lessons taught by our Lord,” he said. “We must see ourselves as part of the story, engaging with it on a personal level.”
He stressed that the message of Holy Week is especially relevant amid ongoing global challenges, where faith is tested and must be lived out through sacrifice and conviction.
“This crisis challenges us to uphold our beliefs, to sacrifice for truth, and to follow the teachings of Christ, which include humility, forgiveness, and a deep understanding of our neighbor’s struggles,” he said.
Colada also underscored the importance of compassion, urging the faithful to embody Christ-like love in everyday life.
“Every moment is an opportunity to embody Christ-like love. We must not shun those who may seem undesirable; instead, let us open our hearts to them,” he said.
“Everyone has their battles, and as individuals of faith, we are called to walk alongside them rather than cast judgment,” he added.
He further highlighted that true Christian love is rooted in selflessness and concern for others.
“The essence of love lies in giving selflessly, in nurturing our capacity for compassion. Let us strive to extend our warmth to those who feel alienated, reflecting God’s infinite love in our actions.”
Colada also delivered a message in Hiligaynon, reinforcing the call to faith and sacrifice:
“Especially sa krisis nga gina atubang naton subong nga panahon, amo ‘ni ang hangkat nga pagtuo, pag idog naton sa kamatuuran, ang pagsakripisyo tungod sa panindugan sang Diyos, labi na sa mga gina tudlo sang aton nga Ginoo, ang imbetasyon sang pagpaubos, sa pagpasensiya, sa pagpatawad, kag madamo pa,” he said./PN
