SANTIAGO CITY, PHILIPPINES – In response to the annual campaign organized by the papal foundation Aid to the Church in Need (ACN), the Salettinian community participated in Red Wednesday observance through various activities today, November 27.
Red Wednesday is an initiative began in 2016, aiming to commemorate “our persecuted brothers and sisters” and raises awareness of the plight faced by Christians worldwide.
Spearheaded by the Christian Formation Office (CFO) together with La Salette Pananagutan Center (LSPC), a Community Mass was held to foster a spirit of unity and reflection.
Yesterday, the La Salette Monument was illuminated in red to display the community’s support for the annual observance.
Wearing of red attire was also encouraged as a reminder of martyrdom and the ongoing discrimination faced by many because of their faith.
In a separate interview, University Chaplain and CFO Director Rev Fr. Ian P. Ronquillo, MS, shared the significance of the institution’s involvement on Red Wednesday.
(“Nakikiisa tayo sa paghihirap sa experience nila regarding sa faith and sa pagmamahal sa Panginoon at sa kapwa. Kasi tayo ‘yong mga hindi nakakaranas, pero mas kailangan nila ng tulong natin; ito ‘yong pinakaimportante na pagdating sa pananampalataya e sana hindi tayo mag-iiwanan.”)
“We stand in solidarity with those who suffer in their faith and love for God and others. While we may not experience such hardships ourselves, they need our support now more than ever; this is the essence of our faith—never leaving one another behind.” he said.
Rev. Fr. Ronquillo also emphasized the role of Salettinians as Reconcilers being an advocate of making a better society.
(“So tayong mga nag-aaral dito sa ULS, sana maunawaan natin na hindi biro ang usaping pananampalataya, so ‘yon ang mga maibabahagi sana natin bilang reconciler na kung ano ‘yong natututunan natin dito sa school, gagamitin natin para maging better society, hindi maging selfish.”)
“As students at ULS, it’s crucial to understand that matters of faith are serious. What we learn here should be shared to foster a better society, rather than fostering selfishness,” he added.
Further, the observance not only serves as a reminder of the struggles faced by many, but also calls for collective action and awareness to encourage communities in supporting those in need and promote for religious freedom.
