Lagdameo urges parents, teachers to teach the children to read the Bible
Jaro Archbishop Angel Lagdameo encouraged parents and teachers to teach the children to read the Holy Scripture as "the mind of today's youth is working contrary to God's teaching."
In his homily last Wednesday in honor of the feast of St. Anne in Molo district, Lagdameo said the best legacy that each parent or teacher could give the children is teaching them to read the Bible. The youth need to know the word of God by reading the Bible. "Ignorance of the Bible is ignorance of Christ," said Lagdameo.
This year's theme for the 232nd patronal fiesta of St Anne focused on children -- "Kabataan: Bugay nga Balaan, Gugma sang Ginikanan, Paglaum sang Simbahan."
Archbishop Lagdameo officiated the anticipated mass for the feast of St. Anne held yesterday. Most Rev. Antonio Ledesma of Cagayan de Oro was the main celebrant in the con-celebrated mass.
He said the children of today are leading the life which is not in accordance with God's will. Often times they have a diverse faith, ideology and needs. Lagdameo stressed there is a need to save the youth from all forms of immorality as they are the country's future leaders. The new president will come from them and they should possess the qualities of a good leader -- a leader with integrity, credibility and responsibility towards the nation.
Lagdameo added, parents and teachers should give the children a chance to have their own Bible. It is less expensive compared to their shoes, he said. The archbishop also stressed that the children's television viewing should also be limited.
They (parents and teachers) should also be a good example to the children. They should motivate the children in reading the Scripture. The word of the Lord should serve as children's lamp to their feet and light to their ways, said Lagdameo.
Lagdameo said children should reflect and meditate on the word of God. They must learn to talk to God by praying. A continuing prayer will make them realize, that God is friend and father. The youth are hungry for prayers, said Lagdameo.
Reading the Bible must be accompanied by action. It should be word and action. Children should also appreciate the presence of God as light to their existence, said Lagdameo.