If you have lived for more than 6 decades the answer comes easy. That a senior citizen at 65 can still stand and walk easy, although slowly this time, Holy Week stands out as a timely way to go through the stations of the cross as if it were yours/mine. Gone is the cynicism of youth which ranges from asking Holy Week again? and for what?
One can celebrate Holy Week in a very simple and quiet way that staying home and just reading the Scripture or go somewhere conducive like Camiguin Island and whether in the sunken cemetery or White Island, ponder on God’s goodness and Omnipotence even as His Son, Jesus , was made to carry the Cross for the sake of saving us from sin.
Then there is El Salvador’s Divine Mercy Shrine . . .or other places that are sure to remind you of your mortality and need for salvation.
May this Holy Week, March 21-27, 2016 (March 21, 2016 being Holy Monday and March 27, 2016, Easter Sunday) bring us closer to what life is all about. Live to the fullest yet prepare for that Eternity we are meant to be . .
Others however, go to resorts or go on a tour to incorporate praying with bonding. For as long as it serves the purpose, every believer is free as wished.
It is providential that Independent vice-presidential bet Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero urged local government units (LGUs) to check the emergency preparedness of resorts and tour operators in their localities ahead of the anticipated deluge of tourists in the provinces during the Holy Week.
Escudero said LGUs should ensure that hotel and resorts are equipped with rescue facilities and their personnel are trained with basic life support to handle emergency cases and keep both local and foreign visitors safe
Last year, a local tourist was reported to have died of poisoning after stepping on a sea urchin while snorkeling in Coron, Palawan. A companion of the victim reportedly rued the alleged lack of knowledge and preparedness in first aid and emergency response of the local tour guides.
“A disaster can happen anytime so we have to ensure that our tourism frontliners and local resorts have basic life support skills for the safety of tourists,” the veteran lawmaker said.
Ultimately, faith is a personal relationship with your God. All the rest just facilitate the realization of a wish to become closer to God and loved ones.
So as to the question: Holy Week, again? and for what? Think again and think really hard for your own sake.