Tagaytay City—During the Lenten recollection for members of the Divine Word Institute of Mission Studies (DWIMS) Alumni Association, Inc., and the DWIMS Tagaytay Chapter of the SVD Lay Mission Partners last February 17, 2024, an inspiring homily was delivered by DWIMS founder and first Director, Rev. Fr. Edgar G. Javier, SVD.
Earlier that day, as a solemn beginning to the Lenten recollection, Fr. Edgar Fr. Edgar's words resonated with the audience, setting the tone for a day of introspection and enlightenment.
At 3:00 PM, Rev. Fr. Samuel "Sam" Naceno-Agcaracar, SVD, Director of DWIMS and Rector of the SVD Tagaytay Community, presided over the Holy Mass at the Manus Dei Hall, with Fr. Edgar as homilist.
In his homily, Fr. Edgar wove together reflections about the Bible readings and personal anecdotes to illuminate the profound truths of the Lenten season. His reflections began with a poignant story from the first reading, drawing attention to the concept of the new covenant “written not on tablets of stone but within the hearts of believers.”
Fr. Edgar emphasized the significance of the heart as the dwelling place of the Lord, where seeds of mercy, compassion, and wisdom are sown.
Delving into the theme of confession and forgiveness, Fr. Edgar shared insights into the mystery of the Sacrament of Reconciliation, reflecting on the fears and hesitations that often accompany the act of acknowledging one's sins. “Many people are afraid to go to confession. I understand. It takes a lot of courage and humility to acknowledge one's sinfulness,” he said.
Through the story of St. Jerome and his dream encounter with the Lord, Fr. Edgar underscored the importance of surrendering everything, even our sins, to God in humility and trust, allowing for the transformative power of forgiveness and redemption to take root in our lives.
Fr. Edgar's journey through scripture continued with reflections on the love and sacrifice embodied in Christ's passion and death. Drawing from the Gospel reading, he illuminated the human fears and vulnerabilities of Jesus, along with the divine assurance of glory and redemption. His poignant retelling of Christ's sacrifice served as a reminder of the profound love that motivates and sustains the Christian faith.
As Fr. Edgar shared personal anecdotes and reflections on the transformative power of faith, attendees were invited to contemplate the enduring message of hope and redemption found in the Easter story. His recounting of powerful encounters with the crucified Lord, both in scripture and personal experience, offered a glimpse into the profound mysteries of faith and the boundless love of God.
In a moment of vulnerability, Fr. Edgar revealed that he experienced a “midlife (and) faith crisis” during his early years of priesthood. During this time of struggle, he shared that it was “climbing up the cross” and the image of “crucified Lord, smiling” that inspired him to continue his life as a priest with renewed vigor.
“We are the heart of Jesus. That's how it works. May we continue to be for mission,” he concluded.
As the attending DWIMS alumni and SVD lay mission partners departed from the Lenten recollection, they carried with them the enduring message of Fr. Edgar's homily, emboldened to live out their faith with renewed purpose and dedication to mission.