The month of May is particularly significant for me for many reasons. First, it is the month of our Blessed Mother, and I was ordained 5 years ago on the Feast of the Our Lady of Fatima! Time really flies if you are having fun, as they say; and for sure, mine is not just fun, it is always a moment of learning and growth. From the time I was born, to my developing years, until today in my ministry as a priest – I am BLESSED to be guided, challenged and allowed to mature in my relationship and pastoral leadership. Thank you for providing me opportunities to polish the remaining rougher edges and brighten the darker hues of my young, imperfect life. I am indebted to all of you. I know that this life, particularly my vocation, other than truly being God’s unique gift, is allowed to grow, mature and find its fullness in the many encounters I have had, and continue to have along the way, positive or otherwise, with the Lord’s words echoing in my heart: “As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; remain in my love.”
Second, it is the month for mothers! Other than our Blessed Mother, we celebrate women who take up motherly roles patterned after her “fiat” – her yes to do God’s will – however that takes form in their lives as women! As we celebrate Mother’s Day, we honor all the women who gave birth to us; those who shaped who we are growing up; those who empowered us to make choices in life even if it sometimes mean leaving us on our own to decide what would be best; those who are silent witness to our faith; those who challenge us to be better and stronger. Over the past year here at Saint Raymond’s, and significantly in the last weeks, I am BLESSED to have these women who guide, nourish, and humble me in many different ways as I continue on this journey. I thank all of you for your motherhood. And for sharing it with me and with others.
I remember most fondly my “Nanay”, my grandmother who passed away a year ago on May 17. Please pray for the eternal repose of Nanay Rosita, and for the consolation of the family here and back home in the Philippines. I am BLESSED to have a very special relationship with Nanay, and I know, a lot of who I am today I can attribute to her just being there – allowing me to grow, mature, and learn. And while it still pains me to think that she is no longer here physically, I find hope and joy in knowing that she is no longer bound by space and time, and that she continues to guide me along the way today and every day. I think of her everyday, and I will always hear her say: “You can never go wrong with kindness.” I miss Nanay a lot, and I’d like to honor her today and everyday by always being kind and loving even without her reminding me in person when I get the chance to visit before, or on the phone whenever we talk mostly on Sundays after the Masses. I hope I make her proud … and I sincerely apologize for those times I have not been kind and loving. Thank you for all your kindness and love. Nanay I am sure is very grateful, and at peace.
Sono semipro grate,
Father Erick
(For the 6th Sunday of Easter)