Coleen D.

Macas BSA – 1

REFLECTION PAPER
500 Days to 500 Years of Christianity
The essence of Christianity revolves around the life, death and Christian beliefs on the resurrection of
Jesus. Christians believe that God sent his son Jesus, the messiah, to save the world. They believe Jesus was
crucified on a cross to offer the forgiveness of sins and was resurrected three days after his death before
ascending to heaven.
Marking Christianity’s 5th centenary in the Philippines is not just an ecclesial celebration, but also a
celebration of who we are as a people and nation. Everyone should remember that Christianity and the Church
is an integral part of the history and culture of the Philippines. The introduction of Christianity on Philippine
shores is generally linked to the celebration of the first Holy Mass, and Butuan City, and Limasawa, Southern
Leyte, both claim to be the venue of this historical religious rite. Thus, the church and Christianity is an integral
part of the Philippine history and culture. It is for this reason that the 5th centenary celebration is not just a
Church celebration, but deserves the recognition and appreciation of the State and the nation.
The countdown towards 500 years’ anniversary of the First Mass over held on land conducted by
foreigners that happened at Limasawa on March 31, 1521 was off to rousing start at the sprawling capitol
sunken garden grounds here Sunday afternoon, November 17, 2019. Attended by an estimated crowd of over
5,000 religious pilgrims coming from all over the Diocese of Maasin comprising the whole of Southern Leyte
and the six towns of Leyte province. The historic event was widely seen as the introduction of Christianity not
only in the Philippines but also in the Far East. A grand parade starting at the Maasin Cathedral in the central
park of the city to the capitol area, featured a float shaped like a ship, and the revered Sto. Nino icon that arrived
earlier from Cebu. This was followed by a Holy Mass officiated by Msgr. Precioso Cantillas, the diocesan
bishop and a short commemorative program. Other highlights to usher the upcoming event 500 days from now,
on March 31, 2021, was the lighting of a torch that signified the formal preparation of the provincial
government in support of the Church led rites, and a Sinugdan festival dance depicting the Spaniard’s arrival
and holding of the Mass. After all of these, the awaited fireworks happened lasting about five minutes.
As a youth, we can do a lot to continue the Christianity. We can make a difference by living Christian
life every single day. There are many ways you can give back and make a difference as a Christian youth. Be a
good example for other youth. As Christian youth, you should lead by example. Everything you do in your life
should reflect the goodness of God. Be patient and kind. You need to love every single day with the right
attitude. This is a fundamental commandment that Jesus gave during His time on Earth. Reach out to people
who are shunned by others. Jesus showed love to people who were treated negatively by others or regarded
lowly by society. Keep studying your faith. Share your faith if you think it will help others.
Do not ever be discouraged about what other say. Be firm in your beliefs. To make a difference in other
peoples’ lives, first change yours.