The University of Negros Occidental – Recoletos celebrated the Mass of the Holy Spirit last August 31, 2022 at the university gymnasium. It was led by Rev. Fr. Bernard Amparado, OAR, Prior Provincial together with Fr. Ronald Quijano, Sacred heart Seminary Rector; Fr. Noli Blancaflor, San Antonio Abad Parish Priest; Fr. Manuel Vergara, OSA of CSA-B VP-Academic Affairs; Fray Rafael Pecson, OAR; Fray Anthony Morillo, OAR; Fray Jose Ernil Almayo, OAR; Fray Don Besana, OAR; Fray Eduardo Celiz, OAR; Fray Leonardo Pauligue, OAR; Fray Emilio Jaruda, Jr. OAR and Fray Monday Benjamin Edobor, OAR with Fray Joel Alve, OAR; Fray Amadeo Lucero, OAR; Fray Jose Alden Alipin, OAR; Fray Cristituto Palomar, OAR and Fray Samuel Eyas, OAR.
Fr. Provincial opened his homily with a story about the accidental discovery of Penicillin and how the discovery brought Eureka moment to Alexander Fleming. The delightful experience becomes a moment of inspiration by unlocking the mysteries. It is the inspiration that answers and provides us insights spontaneously. Inspiration is not a monopoly, but it is a gift for everyone. Without inspiration, many things may not have been discovered, and without it, many questions remained unresolved.
In the life of Christ, the Holy Spirit became the inspiration. He clarified many things, completed what Jesus started, and enlightened the Church’s path. The Holy Spirit guards, protects, and guides the Church. In every endeavor, the Holy Spirit is always present. He is the grace.
In many instances, we fail to feel the presence of the Holy Spirit. We are often afraid of responsibilities. We think we are not capable. When something is given to you, it is the work of the Holy Spirit, and He will never fail you. We often reject the Holy Spirit because of our biases and prejudices, but if we believe in the instruments of the Holy Spirit, everything will be done accordingly, Fr. Prior added.
To conclude his homily, he inquired about the difference between a good and a bad person. A good person concurs with the Holy Spirit, while a bad person refuses and rejects the prompting of the Holy Spirit. So, we must open ourselves to the prompting of the Holy Spirit within us. We do all things acceptable to God. (photos courtesy of Mr. Marcelo Piornato)
