BISHOP NAVARRA BLESSES THE I.S. CHAPEL

Bishop Emeritus Vicente Navarra led the blessing of the Chapel at the Nuestra Seňora de la Salud Hall, August 19, 2019. He was joined by the Fray William Villaflor, OAR; Fray Cristituto Palomar, OAR; Fray Don Besana, OAR; Fray Persiuz Decena, OAR; Fray Jose Teodulfo Jadulco, OAR; Fray Ronel Gealon, OAR; Fray Amadeo Lucero, OAR,  and Fray Jazzy Jeff Montaňez, OAR.  The good Bishop in his homily said that the chapel is not just an added feature of UNO-R, but it is a sacred place dedicated to God and must only be used for the sole purpose to promote the awareness of His presence in the campus. He pointed out that the chapel should have a Holy water vase. The vase filled with Holy Water at the entrance of the chapel will remind everyone that they are entering a holy place.  The must always be reminded that this is a holy place and they have to be still and be silent. Bishop Navarra said that there are three sacred objects in this chapel – the Tabernacle, the Crucifix and the Altar.  The Tabernacle with the lighted lamp reminds us of the presence of the Lord God inside the Blessed Sacrament.  We have to see him with our eyes of faith. God is here to listen to you.  The Crucifix reminds you of the person crucified to save us from the slavery of sin.  He has redeemed us from the tyranny of this world.  He loves us and how can we love him in return? The Altar is the place where we could return the love of God for us. The altar is the place for our offerings. Enter this place even without Mass and as you look at the Altar, tell the Lord in silence.” Accept, O Lord, my humble offering. Bless me. The Bishop also said that the Chapel must always be opened for students to make long or short visits to the Lord.  Lastly, UNO-R is tasked to form students to be God-conscious men and women form their lifetime.