In a heartfelt appeal coinciding with the observance of Holy Week, the Catholic Church has called upon the faithful to draw themselves nearer to God, highlighting a message of genuine spiritual commitment over mere ritual attendance.
A Homily on True Discipleship
During a homily delivered on Holy Monday, March 30, 2026, at the Manila Cathedral, Monsignor Rolando R. dela Cruz, the cathedral rector, urged believers to actively seek a closer relationship with the Lord. He noted that while many individuals attend church daily and receive communion, some may inadvertently distance themselves from God due to inappropriate thoughts or actions.
The Example of Judas Iscariot
Msgr. dela Cruz illustrated this point by referencing Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. Despite being chosen as a disciple and having proximity to the Divine, Judas prioritized personal gain over his apostolic duties, ultimately betraying his faith. This serves as a stark reminder that physical closeness to sacred spaces does not guarantee spiritual alignment.
Measuring True Faithfulness
The priest emphasized that being a disciple of God is not quantified by the frequency of worship or the physical proximity of one's home to a church. Instead, it is assessed by how faithfully each believer fulfills their responsibilities to God and their fellow human beings. This call to action encourages a reflective approach during Holy Week, urging the community to focus on inner transformation and ethical living.
As Holy Week progresses, the Catholic Church's message resonates as a timely reminder for believers to evaluate their spiritual journeys, fostering a deeper, more meaningful connection with their faith beyond traditional practices.
