ASIA/PHILIPPINES - Witnesses to the faith in public life, fervent in prayer, tireless evangelisers: lay Catholics in the Philippines play a major role in the Church

Manila (Fides Service) -The Church in the Philippines can rely on an involved active laity bold witnesses of the faith, present in public life and promoters of the fundamental values of the family. This emerged from Laity Week events in various dioceses and parishes launched by the Bishops’ Commission for the Laity. Events involved lay movements and associations with two figures of reference: Saint Lorenzo Ruiz and Blessed Pedro Calungsod recognised for their holiness by the universal Church.
‘Self-discipline and change of values: key for growth, love and progress in our country’ was the theme of the Week’s reflection and witness centred on commitment and coherence of lay Catholics in public life at a time when the nation is faced with political, economic and social difficulties.
The Church in the Philippines calls on each and every citizen to fulfil the duty to help solve these problems, assuming responsibility, rejecting corruption and making decisions in keeping with the faith and the values of the Gospel.
Laity Week included special Masses, morning and evening prayers and devotions to the country’s own saints, Saint Lorenzo Ruiz and Blessed Beato Calungsod. Each day of the week had a special theme: religious - witness to the faith in the family; social - fight corruption, protect creation; moral - the life and the dignity of the person must come first. At the end of the week of events, catechesis and liturgy the participants reaffirmed their commitment to serve the Church and the nation. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 6/10/2005 righe 27 parole 282)