JESUS' FACE

In the Chapel of the Holy Face of Hesus at Hidalgo, Quiapo, I chanced to attend a Mass for the Vowing Ceremonies of eight nuns. They all vowed for chastity, poverty and obedience. All of them looked so radiant in their light-blue-green habit topped with white hood. There was additional white veil like that of a bride.

I saw them all closely during the offering. They were all exhibiting a peaceful and serene smile. You could feel their inner joy and satisfaction. They all look so triumphant after making their vows. It must have taken them many days and night s of prayers, meditations, introspections to make a very important decision. It is heartwarming to know that there are still women like them whose vocation is to serve God through the people.

During this age of materialism it is martyrdom to enter the convent. Of course their vow is only for one year. This is probably the final test before they are eventually married to Christ spiritually. With their white veils held in place by white garland, they looked like choir of angels about to render a heavenly song.

During the homily, the officiating Bishop said: "You will not really see the Holy Face of Jesus until you look closely at all the faces of the people specially the very poor".