Diplomats for a cause

In the name of charity, international ambassadors and their spouses grace the runway wearing pieces from SM Retail’s beloved brands

BY JOHN LEGASPI

Oct 26, 2024 02:04 PM 

Maintaining peace, fostering good diplomatic relations, and representing their home country’s values are some of the responsibilities of foreign ambassadors and diplomats. Apart from their work at the embassies, they are also known for immersing themselves in their host country’s heritage through various events, whether cultural or philanthropic. A testament to this is the “Diplomats For A Cause” charity gala.

Led by SHOM (Spouses of Heads of Mission) and SM Retail, the charity gala took place at the Grand Ballroom of the Marriott Hotel on Oct. 8, 2024, shining a spotlight on Filipino fashion and its potential to uplift marginalized communities. The diplomatic community, Filipino cultural identity, and MSME-driven retail ingenuity all came together to show their support as ambassadors, diplomats, and their spouses gamely took to the runway, modeling pieces from SM Retail’s Kultura, SM Fashion, AXCS, and Fashion Forum. 

Consul General Fortune Ledesma of Monaco wore a terno top and matching skirt, featuring intricate cutwork embroidery from Kultura; H.E. Constance See - Ambassador of Singapore, Silk cocoon embroidered top with inabel and piñasilk weaves overlaid on matching skirt from Kultura; and MME Indri P. Akyol - Spouse of Ambassador of Turkiye, wore the Kimona reinterpreted with matching overskirt in a graphic floral print from Kultura

Kicking off the style fest were foreign dignitaries in Kultura pieces. The ladies were visions of class and sophistication, wearing dresses with uniquely Filipino design elements. Spotted on the runway were terno pieces adorned with floral embroidery, while Filipiniana ensembles were made more striking with intricate lace skirts. The blazer-terno hybrid pieces merged the traditional with the contemporary through their sleek silhouettes and use of local textiles. 

H.E. Michel Monique M. Parys - Ambassador of Belgium, Barong with handwoven kalinga weave in Belgian flag colors from Kultura; H.E. Christian Halas Lyster - Ambassador of Norway, Barong with geometric-patterned embroidery from Kultura; Apostolic Nuncio Charles John Brown of Holy See, Vatican, Black and white contrasting embroidery on Barong from Kultura; and H.E. Kazuya Endo - Ambassador of Japan, Modern embroidered barong with mandarin collar from Kultura

The gentlemen looked dashing in barong attire. In addition to classic barong styles, the male foreign dignitaries showcased modern interpretations of this traditional piece, featuring vibrant local tapestries and bold designs with bright colors and various geometric and callado motifs.

Glamor reigned supreme on the runway as female guests modeled elegant gowns from SM Fashion Forum. Adding sparkle to their gowns were exquisite accessories from AXCS’s “Karutora” collection. 

MME. Maria Elena Urriste - Spouse of Ambassador of Argentina, Handpainted and beaded satin cape over matching terno gown from Kultura; Mme. Prof Dr. Denise Brühl Moser - Spouse of Ambassador of Switzerland, Elegant Gown by SM Fashion and Accessories from Karutora at AXCS; H.E. Dr. Titanilla Tóth - Ambassador of Hungary, Stunning blue gown from SM Fashion. Accessories by Karutora available at AXCS

It was captivating to see Philippine fashion apparel and accessories worn by foreign dignitaries. The event amply demonstrated the global reach of Philippine retail design. The foreign dignitaries enjoyed this brief departure from their “regular programming,” transforming into “United Nations of models.”

 Tessa Prieto and Gracie Go; Mme Roswitha Brieger Amb Johann Brieger of Austria

In addition to the fashion show, there was also a silent auction of Filipino artwork to support marginalized communities in the country. SHOM and the SM Group have done much to promote grassroots welfare, and this collaboration is just the latest effort. What was unique about the event was how it brought together foreign ambassadors and their spouses, heads of international institutions accredited in the Philippines, and ranking diplomats with their families—all ready to walk the catwalk in support of various advocacies. 

Ambassador of Japan Kazuya Endo, Kasue Salud, and Mme Akiko Endo of Japan

Over the years, SHOM has dedicated its efforts to vulnerable women, children, and persons with disabilities across the country. It was a natural fit for them to partner with the SM Group. With SM Retail and Kultura, not only was national cultural identity and homegrown fashion on display but there was also strong support for local artisan communities and MSMEs, which form an integral part of Kultura’s regular supply chain.

Bayanihan spirit is alive and well; will live on to the next generation

BY MANILA BULLETIN

Oct 26, 2024 07:53 AM 

 

The bayanihan spirit has again sparked kindness, generosity, and volunteerism even before weather disturbance ‘Kristine’ turned into a tropical storm, and yesterday, as a “severe tropical storm” raising wind signals in 43 areas as of 5 a.m., Oct. 25.

Our strong sense of community to offer help to strangers when disaster strikes has been cited as the spine that raises our resilience to return to our lives before a flood, earthquake or volcanic eruption.

That has been recognized at the recent Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (APMCDRR) hosted by the Philippines, Oct. 14-17, 2024, an event spearheaded by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR). “Kamal Kishore, the special representative of the UN Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction, called our country a ‘lighthouse to the world’,” wrote Manila Bulletin columnist, Antipolo Mayor Jun Ynares, who was one of the speakers.

“What impressed the UN official was what he called our country’s approach of “walking across sectors.” He was referring to the “inclusive” strategy of dealing with disasters where all stakeholders pitch in and help in order to mitigate the impact of adverse events triggered by climate change. He said the Philippines’ collaborative approach has put us ahead in disaster risk reduction initiatives. In a way, the UN official was paying tribute to our spirit and culture of bayanihan,” Ynares said in his column, “Bayanihan as disaster management model.”

On Oct. 23, after a night of strong winds and rains which caused flooding in the south, especially in the Bicol Region, we all woke to “bayanihan” in action.  In social media, the photos of people being rescued or negotiating deep floods transmitted the call for help. 

When former Vice President Leni Robredo, chairman of Angat Buhay Foundation and Kaya Natin Movement member, posted a call for help, donations in cash and kind flowed in. Among the first to respond was Bacolod-based Negrense Volunteers for Change (NVC) which immediately activated the production line of Mingo Meals, sending boxes of the nutritious meals to Naga City.  

Generous citizens immediately sent donations and 10 hours after the post, the Kaya Natin Movement for Good Governance and Ethical Leadership recorded more than ₱4 million in donations.  As of 8 a.m. of Oct. 25, the donations had reached ₱13.4 million.

More than two dozen non-profit organizations initiated fund raising drives and donations of food and dry goods for the victims of severe typhoon Kristine, which had dumped extraordinary amounts of rains in many areas after it developed into a tropical depression on Oct. 21 and made landfall in Isabela as a severe tropical storm on Oct. 23. It then crossed the northern part of Luzon toward the West Philippine Sea.

It is good to see the strong signs that the bayanihan spirit will live on to the next generation.  More than 30 youth groups and school-based organizations have activated fund-raising and volunteer drives to help victims of the typhoon from different sectors, like farmers, fiskerfolk, and indigenous people. Among them are the Agham Youth; Angat GenC; ASEAN Youth Advocates Network; Franciscan Youth- Tabontabon; Kaya Natin Youth-Lucena; Tulong Kabataan; Youth Advocates for Climate Action Philippines; Youth Ambassadors of Albay; and the Student Council Alliance of the Philippines (SCAP).

On the sidelines, away from social media, neighbors extended help to neighbors, offering spaces to sleep for the night, and sharing meals and warm clothing.
Amid the rage of nature, it was good to find the spirit of bayanihan still alive and well among us.

Mind, body, and soul

Understanding the fifth wall through dance at the Fifth Wall Fest

BY POCH EULALIA

Oct 26, 2024 08:43 AM

  

---

AT A GLANCE

• To see the human body move and bend in ways that seemed physically impossible was truly a surreal experience. 

When the human body moves, its sole purpose is to get us from point A to point B. In this fast-paced world, we set our goals to get tasks done as fast as possible. We are steadfast in continuing the daily grind, focused only on partaking of the hustle culture that puts food on our tables. When was the last time we ever got to sit down, take in the sights, and appreciate the earth’s bounty? Have we ever given ourselves the time to break through the fifth wall?

OLDEN BEAUTY Doña Sisang's home served as the venue for this year's Fifth Wall Fest

By now, we are more than likely aware of what it means to “break the fourth wall,” thanks to characters like Marvel’s Deadpool, Ferris Bueller, and Fleabag, who all break the fourth wall by constantly making remarks and acknowledging the audience. We can trace back the concept of the fourth wall down to French philosopher Denis Diderot. He visualizes the idea of the fourth wall keeping the audience separate from the performers. What then is the fifth wall?

 

For dance artist Madge Reyes, the fifth wall stands as an imaginary barrier that guests pass once they leave a venue after a cultural experience and return to their daily lives. Think of it as attending a concert, screaming to your heart’s content as you hear your favorite artist belt out the tunes you love, and heading back home after an electric night. You leave feeling changed, often for the better, as if you had been in a life-altering experience and can never go back the same. It’s this euphoric feeling that fuels the creativity behind her project, the Fifth Wall Fest.

MOVING EXPERIENCE Within the very confines of Doña Sisang's home, the art of dance fluorished as workshops were held to encourage people into expressing themselves through movement

Just recently, the Fifth Wall Fest held its fifth edition following the theme, “The body is home.” Starting out as an online format during the pandemic, the Fifth Wall Fest has since evolved to a literal “home” experience by having its venue take place at LVN Pictures president Narcisa “Doña Sisang” V. Buencamino-de Leon’s historic residence along Broadway Avenue in Quezon City and transforming it into the “Fifth Wall House.”

 

What unfolded over a recent weekend was a series of programs, shows, workshops, and art performances that left guests stunned and lost in another realm. Having the venue take place in the ancestral home added a layer worthy of curiosity, as it leaves guests curious not only about the happenings, but also the lives of those who lived there. Each room had different things going on throughout the two days. You either found yourself joining in the many dance workshops, led by the likes of the Alexander Whitley Dance Company, Alvin Collantes, featuring Hideki Ito, and Magis Creatives Spaces, prompting you to enter a daze and lose yourself to dance, or as an observer mesmerized over the activities lined up in the festival. In one of the rooms, dance films with art house vibes, both foreign and local, would play throughout the day in a nearly pitch-black setting. In each of these settings, to see the human body move and bend in ways that seemed physically impossible was truly a surreal experience. 

HAPAG KAINAN, mixed media, by Rinsfud, 2024

Also worth noting were the otherworldly art installations set up in various areas of the house. One particular piece that stood out was Hapag Kainan by Rinsfud. Displayed on a large table that acted as the stage where all forms of life gathered were an array of plants, fruits, and garlic symbolic of the stages of the ongoing transformation on our tables from the perspective of farmers, cooks, and the consumers (us, the audience). 

 

True enough, going through the happenings of the Fifth Wall Fest was quite an ethereal experience that continues to linger. It has left memories of a movement led by people who felt passionate about their craft and eager to share it with the world through an avant-garde format. Don’t miss out on the sixth edition that’s coming up and you might just leave the festival feeling like a changed person. 

How NightOwlGPT will protect endangered languages

BY ANNA MAE LAMENTILLO

Oct 25, 2024 05:03 AM 

NIGHT OWL

In the world today, a silent crisis is unfolding: the rapid extinction of languages. UNESCO estimates that approximately 40 percent of the world’s 7,000 languages are at risk of disappearing by the end of this century. This is more than just the loss of words and grammar; it is the loss of entire cultures, histories, and identities. As these languages fade, so too do the voices of the communities that speak them, along with the rich cultural knowledge they carry. 

In this critical moment, NightOwlGPT is stepping forward with a mission to preserve endangered languages and ensure that linguistic diversity continues to thrive in the digital age.

 

Language extinction

Language is much more than a means of communication. It is a repository of a community’s collective memory, encompassing its traditions, beliefs, and values. When a language dies, we lose not only a way of speaking but also a unique worldview, a piece of human knowledge that may never be recovered. 

This loss is particularly devastating for marginalized communities, who often find their languages pushed aside by dominant global tongues like English, Spanish, or Mandarin. 
Currently, nearly 3,000 languages are endangered, and every two weeks, one of these languages goes extinct. The factors contributing to this alarming rate of language loss include globalization, migration, and the adoption of dominant languages for economic or social mobility. 

In an increasingly connected world, speakers of minority languages may feel pressure to abandon their mother tongues in favor of more widely spoken languages. This is where NightOwlGPT comes in.

 

NightOwlGPT’s mission
 

NightOwlGPT is an AI-driven platform with a bold mission: to democratize AI technology and make it accessible to even the most marginalized communities. 

By focusing on language preservation, the platform seeks to protect the cultural diversity that is at risk of being lost forever. Through real-time translation, cultural competence features, and interactive learning tools, NightOwlGPT empowers users to not only communicate in their native languages but also pass these languages on to future generations.
At the heart of NightOwlGPT’s mission is the belief that AI can be a powerful tool for social good. The platform is designed to support endangered languages by offering real-time translations for languages like Tagalog, Cebuano, and Ilokano, with plans to expand to over 170 languages globally. 

By embedding cultural insights and language tips into its translations, NightOwlGPT goes beyond merely providing word-for-word conversions — it helps users gain a deeper understanding of the cultural context behind each language, fostering respect and appreciation for linguistic diversity.

 

The role of language 
 

Language is a critical component of cultural identity. It shapes the way people see the world, relate to one another, and maintain a sense of community. When a language disappears, the cultural fabric of a community begins to unravel, weakening the bonds of social cohesion and shared heritage. For indigenous peoples and other marginalized groups, language is often the last stronghold of their identity, a link to their ancestors and traditions. Losing that link can be disorienting, particularly for younger generations who may struggle to understand their heritage.

NightOwlGPT’s platform aims to reverse this trend by making endangered languages digitally accessible. Its interactive learning tools allow users to engage with their languages in meaningful ways, strengthening cultural continuity, and ensuring that these languages are not only preserved but actively used.

 

Solution for the future
 

NightOwlGPT recognizes that the preservation of endangered languages is not just about saving words — it’s about preserving identities, histories, and cultures. By democratizing AI and making its technology accessible to marginalized communities, NightOwlGPT offers a solution to the crisis of language extinction. The platform empowers individuals to protect their linguistic heritage while ensuring that the next generation can learn, use, and celebrate their native languages in an increasingly digital world.  

In a time of rapid change and growing digital connectivity, NightOwlGPT’s mission to preserve the world’s linguistic diversity is more important than ever.
 

Rita Ora to host 2024 MTV EMAs

 BY JONATHAN HICAP

Oct 24, 2024 07:49 PM

  

---

AT A GLANCE

• Benson Boone, RAYE, Shawn Mendes, Teddy Swims, and The Warning to perform

---

MTV confirmed that Rita Ora will be the host of the 2024 MTV EMAs, which will be broadcast live across the globe on Nov. 10 from Co-op Live in Manchester, United Kingdom. 

Ora will become the show’s first three-time host. 

“I’m over the moon that I get to be back with my MTV family hosting the EMAs for the third time! The EMAs stage has become like another home for me, and this year’s show in Manchester is going to be absolutely incredible! We’ve got an amazing lineup of music performances and plenty of surprises in store. We’re all ‘mad fer it!’” said Ora.  

ADVERTISEMENT

Rita Ora (MTV)

“The MTV EMAs are taking over Manchester and we can’t think of a better way to supersize this global music event than by bringing back fan-favorite, Rita Ora,” said Bruce Gillmer, president of Music, Music Talent, Programming & Events, Paramount, and the chief content officer, Music, Paramount+. “Rita’s infectious energy and talent are undeniable, and we’re absolutely certain she will elevate the show to new highs for fans around the world.”

Ora has cemented her status as a pop culture icon with a string of critically acclaimed hits. Her latest album “You & I” debuted at #1 on the UK Official Independent Albums Chart and features the US #1 Dance Radio track “Praising You (feat. Fatboy Slim),” which also held the #1 spot on Billboard’s Dance Radio/Mixshow Chart for five consecutive weeks.  

With over 10 billion global streams and 13 Top 10 UK singles, Ora’s distinctive sound and powerful collaborations across TV, film, culture and fashion continue to captivate her global fanbase.

MTV earlier announced the first line-up of global artists set to perform at the 2024 MTV EMAs:  

Benson Boone - Benson Boone has rocketed to global stardom with his intimate, diaristic style. His viral smash-hit “Beautiful Things” from his debut album 'Fireworks & Rollerblades' remains the most-streamed song in the world this year to date and is now certified 5X Platinum. Fresh off his MTV VMA win for “Best Alternative”, Boone now heads to Manchester to treat MTV EMA fans to a very special performance.

RAYE - singer-songwriter RAYE is bringing her silky smooth vocals to the stage for her debut solo MTV EMA performance. One of the brightest stars in music today, RAYE holds eight Top 20 UK singles, 5 billion global Spotify streams and the Double Platinum song, “Escapism.”, which was also the year’s highest-selling single from a female British artist.

Shawn Mendes - Multi-platinum, Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Shawn Mendes is set to make a highly anticipated return to the MTV EMAs. With the recent announcement of his forthcoming fifth studio album, Shawn, Mendes continues to captivate with his latest singles “Why Why Why,” “Isn’t That Enough,” and “Nobody Knows,” which reflect the inspiration drawn from his travels and personal experiences over the past few years.

Teddy Swims - Teddy Swims’ debut album “I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy” has resonated with fans around the world. Breakout 4x Platinum, Billboard Hot 100 Chart topping single  “Lose Control”, has helped propel Swims to new heights with “Part 2” to his album landing in January. Swims isn’t finished with 2024 yet, as he prepares to bring his powerhouse vocals to the MTV EMAs. 

The Warning - one of rock’s fastest-rising bands are set to make their mark on the MTV EMAs. As The Warning near the end of their headline world tour - having amassed hundreds of millions of streams and countless fans along the way - the Mexican-born sister trio now have their sights set on Manchester, hot off the success of their latest studio album “Keep Me Fed”.

(Photos from MTV)

Bush frontman Gavin Rossdale, plus screen stars Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Jodie Turner-Smith and Lucien Laviscount, will take to the stage as presenters.

The 2024 MTV EMAs will broadcast live on MTV in more than 150 countries. In Southeast Asia, the show will be available on-demand in Singapore (on Singtel TV), Malaysia (on Astro via On Demand and Astro GO, and Catch Up on Unifi TV), and in Indonesia (on First Media and Indihome) from Nov. 16. Additional airing dates are to be confirmed.  

The show will also be available in multiple international territories live on Pluto TV and on-demand on Paramount+ where the service is available. 

Fans can vote for their favorites across categories including "Best Asia Act," “Best Song,” “Best Artist,” “Best Collaboration” at www.mtvema.com until 6 a.m. SGT on Nov. 6.

Sanya Lopez and Ashley Ortega emotional on the issue of comfort women

BY ROBERT REQUINTINA

Oct 24, 2024 11:27 PM

  

---

AT A GLANCE

• Guest speakers urged the public to support the cause and help restore dignity to the survivors while proactively promoting peace.

---

Kapuso stars Sanya Lopez and Ashley Ortega share their thoughts on the issue of comfort women during the pandesal forum held at the Kamuning Bakery Cafe on Oct. 24.

"Pulang Araw" stars Sanya Lopez and Ashley Ortega admitted to shedding tears when they first learned about the issue of comfort women.

Sanya and Ashley shared their thoughts during an open forum, "Flowers for Lolas," sponsored by the 85-year-old Kamuning Bakery in Quezon City on Oct. 24. Both stars portrayed comfort women in the popular Kapuso primetime series.

"Napakabigat ng topic. Artista lang naman ako pero ramdam ko ang mga ipinaglalaban ng mga kababaihan natin," Sanya started as she got emotional. 

Sanya continued: "Sa totoo lang po, ganito rin ang naramdaman ko noong una ko silang nakasama. Sorry at emotional ako rito kasi totoong nangyari sa kanila ito noong World War II.

"Naimbitahan din ako sa isang organization para sa comfort women at nakakalungkot na dalawa na lang ang natira sa kanila roon.

"At nagsalita sila kung kailan nila matatanggap ang hustisya na nararapat para sa kanila. Konti na lang sila so kailan pa? Noong nakausap ko sila sobrang sakit sa puso na marinig yung kwento nila. Hindi po biro yun.

"Isa sa tumatak sa akin doon ay ang kwento ni Lola Isang. Sabi niya kapag nakikita ko yung mga kabataan ngayon, masaya siya. Siguro kung ako rin yung bata ngayon, ang saya-saya ko. Doon ko narealize sobrang swerte ng generation ko at hindi natin naranasan yung nangyari noon," Sanya also said. 

Sanya Lopez

Sanya mentioned that she was inspired to join the series after learning about the struggles of Filipino comfort women.

Ashley said she got nervous when the historical TV series was initially offered.

"I want to be honest na hindi talaga ako aware sa mga nangyari sa comfort women. But I am grateful na na-meet ko yung mga lola. I was heartbroken.

"Nag-iiyakan kami noon. Ngayon na ipinapakita ng 'Pulang Araw' ang storya ng comfort women, nakikita ko yung mga comments and they became aware of what was going on now.

"Ngayon lang nila nalaman na may ganito palang nangyari during World War II. Yun ng gusto talaga namin iparating sa mga hindi pa completely aware sa mga pinagdaanan nila.

"Now I am happy na yung mga students na nalaman na nila ang mga nangyari and I think it's about time. Para hindi maulit ang nangyari noon. 

"Kapag ginagawa namin yung mga eksena, hindi ko talaga maisip na nangyari yun. Masakit talaga sa puso. Pero I'm happy na naging voice ang 'Pulang Araw' at naging aware ang mga kabataan natin kung ano ang nangyari noong giyera," Ashley said.

Ashley Ortega

Wilson also commended Sanya and Ashley for their courageous portrayal of comfort women in the series and proposed a movie project for GMA on the same issue.

Set during World War II, “Pulang Araw” traces the intertwined lives of four childhood friends—Eduardo, Teresita, Adelina, and Hiroshi. As war ravages their homeland and Japanese forces occupy the country, their dreams, friendships, and loyalties are tested, leading them on a journey of self-discovery and resilience.  

Also in the same forum were Gabriela Congresswoman Arlene Brosas, Flowers for Lola's spokesperson Teresita Ang See, Lila Pilipina Director Sharon Cabusao-Silva, Malaya Lolas legal counsel Atty. Virginia Lacsa-Suarez, and activist Atty. Dennis Gorecho.

The same forum emphasized the need for collective action to honor comfort women victims, press for reparations, and ensure historical accountability. 

Guest speakers urged the public to support the cause and help restore dignity to the survivors while proactively promoting peace.

Even Christ had to pray

By Fr. Roy Cimagala

Chaplain

Center for Industrial Technology and Enterprise (CITE)

Talamban, Cebu City

Email: roycimagala@gmail.com

IT’S worthwhile noting that even Christ had to spend the night praying before he made that big decision of choosing his 12 apostles among the many disciples that he had at that time. (cfr. Lk 6,12-16) This could only mean that for Christ to be completely in union with the will of the Father, he had to pray.

There should be no doubt on our part that we too should learn how to pray not only from time to time but rather all the time, if we want to be completely in union with the will of God as we should. Christ is showing us the example, and we should just try our best to follow it. It’s what is proper to us.

Prayer should be like the breathing and the beating of the heart that we need to keep ourselves spiritually alive. It’s what would enable us to enter, start and keep sharing the very life of God as we are meant to do. Without prayer, we would put ourselves in an anomalous condition as we separate ourselves from the very source of our true identity and dignity.

We have to learn to pray all the time, converting everything into some form of prayer by doing it always with God and for God and not just by ourselves, motivated only by some earthly and temporal reasons. This is always possible and practicable because God has designed everything as a form to connect ourselves with him. It’s up to us to follow that design or not.

Ideally, everything should be an act of prayer, whether we are doing our sacred or mundane duties, whether things are good or bad for us, whether we are alone or in a crowd, etc.

Prayer should not be understood only in its sacred, solemn mode. It can lend itself to all the situations and circumstances of our life. It is practicable in any situation. We just have to develop the proper discipline which, of course, will require some training.

And just like any training, it at first has to be taught under a controlled environment. That is why, at the beginning we were taught as children to recite and put into memory some vocal prayers. We may not understand everything said there, but that at least initiates us to the practice of prayer.

Then further steps ought to be made. We have to learn how to exercise our faith, how to meditate and contemplate, how to find a proper place, time and even posture for it. And then how we can have presence of God the whole day, the rectitude of intention in all our actions, the habit of offering everything to God, and literally of conversing with God and discerning his will as we go on with our daily activities.

Let’s remember that without God who is our creator and source of all good things, we can only do evil. We would be like a branch cut off from the vine. We may manage to give an appearance of life and goodness, but without Him, we actually have and are nothing.

We have to be constantly aware that we cannot be simply on our own. We need God and we need to be with everybody and everything else. We have to overcome our tendency that we can afford to be isolated. We should never forget that we are always in communion and we need to make that communion alive and healthy. Prayer does that for us!