Virtual Bible Sharing, Worship Comforts Marawi Youth

The Catholic youth in Marawi face a new challenge in their faith.

When the celebration of the Holy Eucharist was prohibited to the public because of the risk of having coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), it makes them feel empty like what they experienced three years ago during the siege.

They were on lockdown before because of the threat of the terrorists and again they were confined these days in their houses to keep safe and stay away from the virus. In spite of the burden brought by the war and the current health crisis, the Marawi youth stand tall with a stronger faith and renewed hope.

The Marawi youth take comfort through virtual bible sharing and worship. They decided to have bible sharing through Zoom every Saturday evening using the readings for Sunday.

Lhemar Jon Violango, a professor in Mindanao State University-Marawi (MSU) who initiated this bible sharing said, “I believe that our friendship is anchored in this love. The least that we can do for each other, given our individual struggles, is to offer our prayers especially in these trying times. We can only draw strength, comfort, hope and inspiration in God’s words through our life’s witnessing and experiences being shared in the bible sharing.”

They vow to continue this virtual bible sharing and invite more to attend. For Violango, this is the time to concretize what they committed during the year of the youth. He also wants to inspire the other youth to do the same if it’s not possible to read the Word of God every day.

“In this confining situation that affects our mental health it is important that we can share our struggles,” said Violango.

“In my experience of this set-up of bible sharing it gives me comfort and it gives me direction in these trying times,” Violango added.

At present, the mass with the public in attendance is back provided that some restrictions and protocols by the local government unit like wearing of face masks and social distancing are followed. (Mark Joy G. Basallajes)