Saints in the City

November is the month when the Diocese of San José recognizes and honors the accomplishments of the youth in all the parishes in the diocese. November is also the month when we celebrate the feast day of the Saints. Thence, the event is called Saints in the City. On the same month we also remember our departed brothers and sisters who are uncanonized saints by God’s grace. I recall a professor of mine in Theology who simplified the definition of saint as “being in the state of Grace.”

Last night’s Saints in the City Dinner and Awards was filled with grace. Josue and Daniel Davalos, two of our youths from the Hispanic community, made our parish proud. They were recipients of awards from two different categories. Josue and Daniel are not just siblings but are twins! who have been serving at the Altar from a very young age. Together with the awardees were their humble parents Juan and Guadalupe Davalos (who are also parish ministers). It is evident to say that that Josue and Daniel inherited their love for the faith and the Church from their parents.

Bishop Oscar Cantú highlighted how the young Catholics can change the world. How they can bring back the peoples’ love for the church that was lost due to the many reasons in the past. He even said that the youth has more power than him to bring back the glory our church has lost. The words of the Bishop, I am sure, did not only hit the core of every listener’s heart but it left an indelible mark in their thoughts. His message brought me back to the times when i found myself asking, “What will happen to the Roman Catholic Church in the future? Will there still faithful attending the mass?” If we look at the usual active mass attendees, the usual age range is 60s up- the “traditionals” who just love the Church and the faith no matter what. What if they’re not with us anymore in 10, 15, 20 years from now? I think this reality is a dread that every priest is concerned about.

Last night’s event however gave me hope as a priest who loves the Church. I saw hope when the young awardees marched with pride receiving their awards. As they moved to the stage I saw a Church full of energy, full of zest and life. My fear was gone replaced by joy and confidence amidst the face of the young church leaders most of whom I don’t even know. With the spirit and energy of the youth blessed by God, our Church will once again rise up from when it has stumbled.

A Filipino national hero by the name of Dr Jose Rizal said, “ The youth is the hope of our future.” Let me borrow his words and say, “The youth gives better future to our Church.”