I am a Catholic by birth and by choice!
Since childhood, we were taught that priests are like the disciples of Jesus to care for and lead all those who seek and follow God. Over the last 2017 years, they did just that! They guided the lost, helped the poor, care for the sick, clothed the naked, and fed the hungry. They have dedicated all their lives in the service of God's people.
Seeing an elderly priest.
It made me think, who will care for them when they are in their golden years? Who will feed them when they're hungry? Who will care for them when they are sick? Who will guide them when they are lost? Thankfully enough, there are still people who genuinely have a good heart and put up a foundation for the elderly priest.
Ephesus
This group was founded because of the growing needs of these elderly priests. Last February, I was fortunate enough to be invited to their annual gathering.
Elderly priests all over the Philippines who are still able to endure the travel to attend are welcomed with a brotherly hug from their brethren priest who are much younger than them.
Volunteers were also there to help. They start with a hearty breakfast after getting their names at the registration.
Then they celebrate Mass together. I have never attended a mass full of priests! It was heart wrenching to see these men who dedicated all their lives to serve God's people and to see that they still struggle, but I was also grateful and proud that they have held true to their promise to God to care for His people and guide us closer to Him. Yet, you can still see them smile even with their present challenges and shortcomings.
They ended the simple gathering with a beautiful serenade. Everyone was happy! If every I am free again, I will definitely volunteer to be their photographer. It is my way of saying, "Thank you, for all the things you have done for us. "