What catches my eye does not always capture my heart. Last Sunday, at the celebration of our 35th anniversary in Ligaya, I took more than a hundred photos. And indeed, more than a handful tugged my heart in a special way. Let me share with you some.
PHOTO # 1: Proud son of Tito Spanky, Bambi Meer, taking photos of Tito Spanky’s induction into office.
PHOTO # 1: Proud son of Tito Spanky, Bambi Meer, taking photos of Tito Spanky’s induction into office.
During graduations and other school functions, it is such a common sight to see fathers taking photos of their children. We would see them squeezing themselves into the crowd of photographers, earnestly trying to capture the special moments of their children. Last Sunday, I saw Bambi Meer looking for the best places to catch a good photo of his dad. Bambi was obviously so proud and so supportive of his beloved dad.
PHOTO # 2: Tito Tony Panajon exchanging vows, errr, baller bracelet with Tita Sarah
PHOTO # 2: Tito Tony Panajon exchanging vows, errr, baller bracelet with Tita Sarah
The six years Tito Tony gave to Ligaya as Senior Head Coordinator obviously demanded a lot of his time and energy. In his address, he thanks Tita Sarah and his family for “sharing” him with Ligaya. Tita Sarah’s big smile seems to say, “Well done, Tony. I am excited to be on the next phase of our life together.” So much love and joy as they say to each other “More of God, More for God”. How inspiring!
Tito Tony and Tita Sarah, a big thanks from all of us!
PHOTO # 3: Toby Estrella, Leo Banog and Jim Orbe are inducted as coordinators.
PHOTO NO. 3 Jim Orbe, Toby Estrella, and Leo Banog are inducted as coordinators.
Anyone who has experienced the love and pastoral care of his or her coordinator knows that a coordinator’s job is not easy. These three brothers, after years of training (and yes pruning) have a good grasp of the ride ahead. Yet, look at their faces as they take on their new roles. Indeed, their joy is found not in the absence of trials and challenges but in the knowledge that they are able to do their Master’s will.
PHOTO # 4: Friendships formed within community
PHOTO # 4: Friendships formed within community
We are called to the fullness of life. A life that is filled with deep friendships and overflowing love; the kind that is present both on sunny and rainy days. The children of our community meet and develop friends for life in Ligaya. Brothers and sisters are put in services that gives them a chance not only to serve together but to encounter the face of Jesus through each other. In this photo, you will see Tito Spanky being given big bear hugs by brother coordinators. Luigi Paterno, in a teasing mode runs to the side of Jun Cruz when people flock to Jamie Rivera for photos. Luigi said “Dito ako kay Jun mag papa-picture.” What a way to say “Jun, ikaw ang sikat sa akin. Ako ay fan mo.” Raoul is the preferred seatmate of Leo Banog’s daughter all through out mass and program.
PHOTO # 5: Freedom to express our worship and thanks to God
PHOTO # 5: Freedom to express our worship and thanks to God
Where else can you feel more free to raise your hands, sing loudly (even if off key), shout praises to the Lord, jump up and down in worship or simply gaze endlessly at God but in Ligaya? We are a people who love to worship the Lord. And our gatherings are so designed to allow us that freedom to express our worship to and love for the Lord Almighty. Imagine all the places around the world where faith is suppressed. Isn’t it such a joy and privilege we are able to worship freely here in Ligaya? Truly, a day in the courts of the Lord is better than a thousand elsewhere.
And lastly,
PHOTO NO. 6 Husband and wife serve the Lord as one.
PHOTO # 6: Husband and wife serve the Lord as one.
Tito Spanky and Tita Apples are kneeling and being prayed over. Notice, that in the first photo, (left) Tito Spanky is holding on to the material passed on to him by Tito Tony. In the middle of the praying over, he takes hold of Tita Apples’ hand as if to say, “Apples, we serve the Lord as one.”
Family is God’s idea. Here in Ligaya, so much importance is given to preparing, preserving and nurturing the relationships between husband and wife and their children. Even if one is not Senior Head Coordinator, each member of Ligaya strives to say, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”
Happy 35th Anniversary, Ligaya! More of God, More for God!
- Sharee Roque, NDE
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Sharee and my brothers & sisters,
Let me share with all of you something intimate:
This am. before the Blessed Sacrament i was moved to pray:” Lord, use this dumb mule to accomplish Your will !”
Spanky M.
PS. Thanks for sharing the “heart shots” and your personal and inspiring “from the heart” comments/insights.
nice heart shots Sharee!!! you captured my feelings indeed! in behalf of our family: t’was an honor to serve Ligaya brothers and sisters! we will continue to serve our Lord thru our community. – t. Sarah P.