Priest to media practitioners: connect with God daily

By Myrna Bermudo

Media practitioners working in Catholic radio, government and in commercial radio/TV networks, print, audio-visuals, information technology, live streaming team, members of the Caceres Commission on Communications (CCCom), gathered for the yearly Lenten Recollection in Villa Caceres Hotel, Naga City last April 2, 2022.

Fr. Erwin Blasa, a biblical scholar, professor and formator at the Holy Rosary Major Seminary was the resource speaker during the Media Lenten Recollection on April 2 held at Villa Caceres Hotel, Naga City. Using the gospel text of the parable of the two sons, he guided the participants to reconnect with God, with oneself and with others. (Photo credit: Jam Madrid of PIA)

Fr. Erwin Blasa, a biblical scholar, professor and formator at the Holy Rosary Major Seminary was the resource speaker.

Fr. Blasa underscored the importance of daily prayer to have a deeper connection with God, with oneself and with others.

“To reconnect spiritually, one needs to set aside time for prayer, be accepting and able to recognize others, able to bless the world/ recognize the gifts of nature and interacts with others. Learning how to forgive oneself is also essential and liberating, “ says Fr. Blasa.

Using the gospel text of the Parable of the Two Sons in Luke chapter 15 verses 1-3, 11-32, Fr. Blasa challenged the participants to reflect on one’s connectivity with God, with oneself and with family members and other persons.

Fr. Blasa gave four pointers in reading the Sacred Scriptures: 1. What does the Bible text say? 2. What does the Bible text mean? 3. What does the Bible text mean to me? 4. What does the Bible text ask me to do?

Fr. Blasa quoted and explained the message of Pope Francis for Lent 2022 to encourage works of charity or doing good for others. “Let us not grow tired of doing good, for in due time we shall reap our harvest, if we do not give up. So then, while we have the opportunity, let us do good to all” (Gal 6:9-10)

“We adore you, O Christ and we bless you, because by Your cross you have redeemed the world.” This acclamation prayer filled the hall as participants of the Lenten recollection took turns in carrying the cross and leading the prayers during the meditation of the fourteen stations of the Way of the Cross on April 2. (Photo credit: CCCom)

Bicol bibles were distributed to all the participants through the generosity of Bicol Mail publisher, Nilo Aureus, Daughters of St. Paul and Mike Pauig. All were challenged to read the Bible one chapter daily.

The recollection gave opportunity for the participants to meditate on the fourteen (14) stations of the Way of the Cross and to avail of the Sacrament of Reconciliation or Confession.

A Eucharistic celebration was held to conclude the recollection. It was presided by Fr. Louie A. Occiano, director of CCCOM, together with Fr. Erwin Blasa, the resource speaker.

The 2022 Lenten recollection was organized by CCCom together with Don Robert Odiedo of KBP Advisory Council and KBP Camarines Sur.