Palma: Be like the youth in serving others
“Be like the youth in serving others” was the message of Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma in his Christmas message delivered at his official residence on Wednesday, Dec. 19.
The prelate’s message is timely as Catholics in the country will be observing the Year of the Youth starting Nov. 25 this year until Feast of the Christ the King next year.
He has encouraged everyone, including priests and those who are into public service, to serve with similar enthusiasm and fervor as the youth.
But Palma also challenged the youth to help in convincing others in shunning illegal drug use and other criminal activities and guide them towards living better lives.
As Cebuanos welcome the holidays, Palma reminded them of the importance of the youth through the images of the Infant Jesus and the Santo Niño.
“As we greet you ‘Merry Christmas’ and as we welcome the Year of the Youth, we thank God for all the graces we receive, especially Santo Niño, which has been a gift from God to Cebu. We are happy that we are able to welcome him with all of our hearts and praises,” Palma said in Cebuano.
He also called on everyone to remain humble and to be open to the advice of others.
Palma called on the youth to be like missionaries for Christ, to be servant-leaders and not to “be served but to serve.”
In a press conference after his Christmas message, Palma urged Catholics to continue praying against violence, particularly murders being perpetrated by unidentified assailants.
He also urged Catholics to pray for the youth, especially those involved in illegal drugs.
Earlier this week, five high school students from Lapu-Lapu City were rescued by police after they were forced to use illegal drugs.
A former beauty queen in Cebu City was also arrested after she was caught by police selling high-grade marijuana.
Palma challenged the youth to help those who are involved in illegal drugs and bring them back to the fold.
“Siguro diha nato mapamalandungan ang ka-importante sa challenge nato sa mga young people, how can they reach out to their fellow youth, how can they influence other young people, so that they will realize the evil niining nagkadaku, kining young people being used and instruments in drug proliferation,” Palma said.