James Z. Carpio

  As a member of a devout Roman Catholic family, I grew up with many Lenten traditions. We would participate with the Roman Catholic Church in its rites and practices. Even at home my siblings and I followed solemn teachings. It started officially in the Liturgical calendar on Ash Wednesday. A cross of ash is marked on the person’s forehead. From dust and to dust we shall return. Fasting and abstinence are observed during Fridays. Only one full meal is allowed during the day. And, the faithful is instructed not to eat meat. I remember my mother would cook fried fish and cocido  to go with it. It was delicious and spiritually good for the soul. The main event is the Holy Week. Before it unfolds Palm Sunday is celebrated. We would go to mass with palm leaves from our mother’s beautiful garden. By the way, the palms are burnt into ash and are used during Ash Wednesday. Everything is part of the grand divine scheme. What is unusual about our family is instead of going to the p...

Visita Iglesia 2024

  Are you in high spirits lately? If yes, you may skip this one. Life is difficult. That is even the first sentence of Mr. Peck’s book, The Road Less Traveled. In life, we experience ups and downs. A roller coaster ride indeed! ​ There are numerous songs written about it. Which one? When we are down and out. Remember the song with lyrics that goes… when you’re down and troubled. And you need some loving care. And nothing, nothing is going right. Close your eyes and think of me. And soon I will be there. To brighten up even your darkest night. ​ You just call out my name. Because like its title-- You’ve got a friend.  A friend of mine told me once, you know all the inspiring songs you hear. They are actually inspirations from God. So, you keep that in mind. And, the next time you listen to that song, feel in your heart that God is your Friend. ​ A quite inspiring, compelling poem written by Mr. Edgar A. Guest with the title, “ Don't Quit” goes… When things go wrong, as they som...

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