A man knelt down before Jesus and asked him, “Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus answered, “You must do all the commandments.” Seeing hope that he’s qualified, the man smiled and said, “Teacher, I am happy to tell you that I have observed all these from my youth.” Wow! Observing God’s commandments from his youth isn’t a joke. I’m sure the people around were wowed of his impressive response. But Jesus has something else to say. “You are lacking in one thing. Go, sell what you have, and give to the poor.” Then the man’s face fell, and went away sad, for he had many possessions.” (Mark 10:17-27) This gospel reminds me of Bishop Teofilo Camomot whose cause for beatification is now being processed. He is popularly known for his genuine service and generosity to the poor. When he was the parish priest of Talisay, Cebu many years back, he requested his parishioners to donate rice. But later his cook complained because the sacks of rice were repacked in kilos and given to the poor. Another witness disclosed that a tuba gatherer with tattered pants was surprised when Bishop Camomot gave his pants leaving him only wearing the priestly habit. And he was once held up by robbers on the road. But his wallet only contained 20 pesos. For robbers not to be frustrated he called them back and gave his Episcopal ring and pair of shoes. He said, “bulawan man ni puede ni ninyong ibaligya.” It’s gold you can sell it. The ring was later recovered from a pawnshop in Cagayan de Oro. It seems foolishness isn’t it? But you know what? One can only share a genuine compassion by becoming a fool. Yes. Saint Paul says, “If anyone among you considers himself wise in this age, let him become a fool so as to become wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in the eyes of God.” (1 Corinthians 3:18-19) >))+> “PRAYER FOR THE PROCESS OF THE BEATIFICATION OF THE SERVANT OF GOD BISHOP TEOFILO B. CAMOMOT” Almighty and ever-living LORD, it was Your grace and the love of You that made your servant, Teofilo Camomot, devote his life to Your service as priest and bishop, a life of self-abnegation, constant prayer, and generous love for the poor and the needy. Grant that his virtues provide a lasting example for all and merit the approval of the Church that he be raised to the altars. As a sign of Your benevolence to Your servant’s cause, we humbly implore You to bestow upon us this favour (mention petition) in the name of Jesus, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever. Amen.
Posted on: Mon, 03 Mar 2014 16:09:21 +0000