Celebrate the Word

God’s Word: The Breath of New Life is this year’s theme for the celebration of the National Bible Month which takes us back to its very first proclamation by President Ferdinand Marcos declaring the celebration of National Bible Week in 1982. Forty-two years later, we find ourselves engaged in the same celebration, albeit extended and underscored with heightened significance.

Come January, volunteers under the Bible apostolate become busy of the many activities to be held. This year, National Bible Month Davao Coordinator, Rev. Rueland Badoy has been spearheading the visitations to public and private offices promoting the celebration. He even attended the 1st Regular Session at the Sangguniang Panglungsod on January 24, 2024 to witness the submission of a resolution by Hon. Pilar Caňeda Braga supporting the National Bible Month celebration and had the chance to personally share about it and offer prayers of God’s blessings for the city and for the country.

Together with our very own ABAD Director, and NBM co-convener Rev. Fr. Ritsche Gamaya, Pastor Rueland has had a few press conferences informing the public of the different activities and the purpose of this celebration. On January 23, 2024 was the first day of a two-day Bible Reading held at the Rizal Park in San Pedro St. as Pastor Rueland was interviewed he said, “talaga pong nais nating basahin in public [ang Bibliya] dahil napakahalaga katulad po sa ating verse for this year 2 Timothy 3:16-17, “all scripture is breathed out by God, profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction and training and righteousness so that man of God may be complete and equipped for every good work.” He emphasized how important the Word of God is for people to hear not only in January as we celebrate the National Bible Month but the whole year round.

During the Bible reading, a few of the Davao Catholic Herald and DXGN 89.9 Spirit FM-Davao staff also participated together with other Christian communities in reading two chapters of the Bible. It was expressed by Ms. Mary Jane Alba that as she volunteers for the reading, she also wishes that passersby submit themselves and also volunteer to read. Also she expressed her prayers that while reading, someone in need may hear the word of God and provide enlightenment.

In another recent interview at the Royal Mandaya Hotel during the AFP-PNP Press Corps. Southern Mindanao Media Briefing, Fr. Ritsche has made it clear that this celebration is not only for them priests but for everyone as he said, “mao na dili lang ni unta para sa mga pastor, sa mga pari, sa mga magtotoo but to all of us… kinabuhi gyud pud ang pulong sa Ginoo.”

May this celebration not only be confined to January but resonate throughout the entire year, reminding us that the Word of God is an eternal wellspring of inspiration and guidance for every soul.