A Spiritual Journey… Finding Our Truer Selves

“What a joy it should be to feel in your inmost heart that little tug of what has been called a gentle stirring of love.  This is God’s call, God’s offering of self and God’s response to your loving search. Indeed, your loving search would not have even begun without his gentle call.” (W. Meninger)

The Divine Healer Choir had their one and a half day recollection last June 12-13, 2009 at the Benedictine Retreat House, St. Benedict Priory, Ulas, Davao City.

The first day was facilitated by Fr. Rene Retardo, DCT, Pastoral Director of St. Francis Xavier Regional Major Seminary (SFX-REMASE). He emphasized the importance of treasuring oneself in order to treasure others.  He likewise explained the importance of the role of choir members in animating the liturgical activities in the Chapel of the Divine Healer. Indeed, the recollection was not a substitute for daily life but a booster and an accelerator of the spiritual journey. It allowed the group to detach from the ordinary pattern and pressures of their daily life. The day culminated with the Holy Mass presided over by Fr. Rene.

Fr. Tex Buntol, MI, the Spiritual Assistant of the choir, facilitated the recollection on the following day.  It was an opportune time for openness and reconciliation; of sharing one’s self and experiences. Fr. Tex concluded the activity with the celebration of the Holy Mass at the Chapel of the Divine Healer. According to him, they were all highly-spirited and confident enough to take bolder steps in their commitment to serve God.

To the CDH Choir, may your path be blessed and your commitment rewarded. To God always be the glory!

“YOU’RE MY DAD, my only one. And I’m very proud to be. Every night I thank the Lord above.  You’re my dad, my flesh and blood. You’re my dad, my only one.”  These beautiful lyrics moved some fathers, and even mothers also, to tears as Fr. Tex led the people in singing them.

Last June 21, the Chapel of the Divine Healer paid tribute to all fathers as we celebrated Father’s Day. After communion, Fr. Tex said special prayers for all fathers present and then blessed them.  That very beautiful song, “My Dad,” was sung by the people as the members of the Divine Healer Choir placed around the neck of all the fathers present in the Mass the special token prepared for them

To all fathers…Happy Father’s Day!