500 Years and Beyond!

VIVA JESUS! VIVA MARIA! This is indeed a time to rejoice since the Christian faith remains strong, as we celebrate 500 years of Christianity. The Philippine church has been preparing for this important Jubilee celebration, with a different theme each year. Now, with the theme “Gifted to Give”, we show our heartfelt gratitude to the Almighty God for the great gift of Christian faith. With this gift, we are able to share love, kindness, peace, unity and care to the world.

Christianity was introduced to the Philippines in 1521 when the Portuguese explorer, Ferdinand Magellan made a trip to the islands. This led to the formation of Christianity, which included the teaching of practices and traditions as well as upholding of missions. The first mass was also held at that time, and many people were baptized to form a Catholic community. However, it was also not a favorable time for Filipinos since there were many controversies and trials. But, Filipinos triumphantly overcame those difficulties and this is a significant highlight of this event.

Now, 500 years later, the Catholic Church joyfully observes this celebration and have chosen Easter Sunday, April 4, 2021 to begin the celebration. Many events were also held for the celebration where many Filipinos were able to participate including the youth such as virtual masses and Virtual Youth camps to contemplate the given theme “Gifted to Give”.

As we commemorate 500 years of Christianity, we are called to learn and appreciate our history, as well as to reaffirm the significance of evangelization through the greatest practices of our own Catholic community. This is not only a celebration, it is also a time to start a new page, to start new and deeper ways of sharing our faith with others, and to reaffirm our commitment to living a good life. That’s why let us not only reflect on the past, but also consider the future, consider what we can do to expand our Christian faith and discover new ways to pass it on to future generations. As we have been blessed with modern technology, let us use it to evangelize and inspire more individuals to be part of the Catholic church. Let us not only continue the practices that our ancestors taught us, but also improve and make them more effective in this generation of modern civilization. And, even if we continue to face challenges, let us not be afraid, for God has always been with His people over those 500 years, and I know that we believe He will continue to be with us for eternity.

As part of the new generation of the Filipino community, it is our responsibility to continue the faith that our ancestors taught us. Yes, we are in this world of technology and this will be an advantage for us to continue to spread and strengthen Christianity around the world.

Let us not forget to express our gratitude to our forefathers and mothers, as well as all Christians who have passed down their faith through generations. With this faith, we can be a gift to other people and make a better future for us and for future generations. Let us keep the Christian faith strong for the next 500 years and beyond!

Viva Jesus! Viva Maria! (Alyza Faith Arboladura | Winner Essay Writing School Based Category, 13-18yrs. old)