Don’t be mediocre, bishop tells youth

Don’t be mediocre, bishop tells youth

Bishop Honesto Ongtioco of Cubao speaks during this year’s Singles & Youth Faith on Fire at the Araneta Coliseum on June 30. JOSELLE DELA CRUZ

By Joselle Dela Cruz

July 3, 2018

Manila, Philippines

A Catholic bishop urged the youth not to be “mediocre” in their faith that should be shared to others by giving witness through their example.

Speaking at this year’s “Relentless 2: Singles & Youth Faith on Fire” (SYFOF) at the Araneta Coliseum on June 30, Bishop Honesto Ongtioco of Cubao encouraged the youth not to conform themselves to a mediocre life but instead grow in Christ.

“We have no reason to be mediocre in our faith. We should instead show to the world how we live our faith,” Ongtioco said.

The bishop said he is glad that many young people are active in their faith, which according to him, is a sign that the Church has a bright future.

“Because of your presence, I know you care for the faith,” he said.

Organized by The Lord’s Flock (TLF) Catholic Charismatic Ministry for seven years now, the worship conference was aimed at reintroducing the youth to the “relentless love of God” through talks and music.

Techie Rodriguez, founder of TLF, reminded the young people that as part of today’s church, they have a duty to bring their joy and optimism to the world.

“We see in all of you a vibrant and dynamic Church that will face the challenges of the Philippine Church in the present and in the coming generation,” said Rodriguez.

“A dynamic and vibrant Church will also assure all of us a continuously re-peopling of our Church. We have already seen the Churches in Europe and in other developed countries that have died as the senior citizens like me disappear year after year without youth, replenishing them,” she added.