Divergent

At least in our local cinemas, the movie DIVERGENT has been the talk of the town recently. Extended for weeks, it reminds us of the divergent virtues that our two new saints has each to claim as worthy of our emulation.

A people divided into distinct factions. One reason why viewers got interested to watch the movie is the reality of factions. Such situation even makes the heart Filipinos sympathize with people who became slaves and controlled by the more powerful. But where can unity begin? Is there hope for equality?

Angelo Giuseppe Roncalli, now St. John XXIII is an epitome of that unity and hope for equality. “I try to pull out a brick here and there,” he once humbly emphasized. He surprised the whole world three months after his election as Pope when he convened the Second Vatican Council inviting representatives of other Christian churches and non-Catholic denominations.

At the heart of St. John XXIII’s leadership is to open the Church to everyone so that there would no longer be division. He longed for unity with non-Catholic leaders as he recalls, “never, to my recollection, was there among us any muddling of principles…. We did not negotiate; we talked. We did not debate but loved one another.”

“Fear doesn’t shut you down, it wakes you up.” Another thing that interests viewers of DIVERGENT movie is the heroism of those who are controlled and tested. Filipinos who are resilient in times of hardships can find ways to survive. This is exemplified in the life of Tris and Four in the movie. No danger and threat can hinder them from pursuing freedom and dignity.

Karol Wojtyla or better St. John Paul II always radiates courage in the midst of threat. Having witnessed the lifestyle of a Communist society and the pains of World War II, he became a man without fear. Without becoming combative and arrogant, St. John Paul II showed creativity in the midst of hardship and dangers – physical, moral, and spiritual. He always found means to live with the compassion and love of God which vanishes all fears.  (dcherald)