Joyfully Catholic

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Greggy Limikid Our Lady of the Assumption Parish Tagum City 

Christianity had been around for over hundreds of years but the tradition still lives on. The Holy Eucharist, or Holy Mass, once played a highly important role in the lives of many. Unfortunately, since 1950s, the number of Church goers has plummeted rapidly.

The word “obligation” linked with the compliance of this Sacrament became a negative word. Suddenly, Holy Mass became an ordinary, not-so-special affair to be followed even without comprehension and spirit.

This is true for Mr. Greggy Limikid, a high school teacher from a private-Catholic School who juggled his Physics classes and his responsibilities in the Church. As a Coordinator of the Mass Media Apostolate of the Diocese of Tagum, Greggy had dutifully fulfilled his obligations as a Catholic. He had lived most of this life in this way until he worked in a foreign country where his faith was to be kept in secret. It is with this experience that he finally realized the true value of the sacraments and his religion.

Below is an excerpt of my interview with Greggy: 

“We have been taught by our elders that attending the Holy Mass every Sunday and to be in communion with God’s people is a Christian obligation. When I decided to accept the job offer to work overseas, I was a bit worried of what lies ahead considering that I will be working in a very conservative Islamic country. Working in this country is quite difficult for a Christian who used to attend Sunday Mass regularly and receive Holy Communion.

One time, I was invited by my colleague to attend a Holy Mass. I was so surprised knowing there are several Catholic religious groups existing in this country. Since Christian service is prohibited in this Country, the Holy Mass is celebrated secretly. During the celebration, I always feel worried if the authorities will catch us, surely, we will all go to jail. However, in this situation, I feel so blessed to have experienced how the early Christians were persecuted and how it strengthened their faith. My experience even makes my faith stronger. It’s like everything is so special that I am able to appreciate all the things around me. A desert for many is nothing, but for me, it’s a gift. God is so good that He knows what His people need…the blessings are so tangible. I learn to appreciate simple things and most specially the importance of prayer.”

As the saying goes, “True faith flowers from and through doubt”.  It is indeed normal for any person to doubt everything around him. But God has his own way of leading us to the right path and clearing our minds. He has His special way of transforming our doubts into wisdom that will surely strengthen our faith and uplift our spirits.

Keep that story coming.  Write to us via this section.  ‘Til next week!