Words of God, Cebu City (2025)

15/10/2025

The disadvantages of hatred affect your mind, body, relationships, and spirit.

Here’s a clear breakdown:

🧠 1. Emotional and Mental Effects

Stress and anxiety: Hatred keeps your mind in a state of tension and anger.

Loss of peace: You find it hard to feel calm, joyful, or content.

Bitterness: It can make you negative and resentful, even toward innocent people.

Depression: Constant hatred drains emotional energy and may lead to sadness or hopelessness.

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❤️ 2. Physical Health Effects

High blood pressure and heart problems: Anger and hatred trigger stress hormones.

Weakened immune system: Your body becomes more prone to illness.

Sleep problems: Overthinking and emotional pain can disturb rest.

Fatigue: Hatred consumes energy, leaving you feeling tired and tense.

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👥 3. Relationship Effects

Broken friendships and families: Hatred pushes people away.

Lack of trust and communication: It builds walls instead of understanding.

Revenge or conflict: It may lead to fights, arguments, or even violence.

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🙏 4. Spiritual and Moral Effects

Distance from God (or inner peace): Most faiths teach love and forgiveness; hatred goes against this.

Guilt or regret: When hatred leads to hurtful actions, you may later feel remorse.

Loss of compassion: It blinds you from seeing goodness in others.

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🌱 Summary:

Hatred doesn’t destroy your enemies—it destroys you from within.
Replacing hatred with forgiveness, understanding, and patience brings healing and peace.

15/10/2025

Saint of the Day – October 16, 2025

Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque (1647–1690)

Virgin and Religious

Life Story:

Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque was born on July 22, 1647, in Burgundy, France. From a young age, she showed deep devotion to the Blessed Sacrament and had a strong love for prayer. After her father’s death, she endured years of suffering and mistreatment from relatives who managed the family’s affairs.

At age 24, she entered the Visitation Convent in Paray-le-Monial, France. There, she experienced profound mystical visions of Jesus Christ, who revealed to her His Sacred Heart — a symbol of His infinite love and mercy for humanity.

Between 1673 and 1675, Jesus appeared to her several times, showing His Heart surrounded by thorns and flames, saying:

> “Behold this Heart which has loved men so much, yet is so little loved in return.”

Through her confessor, St. Claude de la Colombière, her experiences gained credibility, and the devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus spread throughout the Church.

Despite suffering ridicule and disbelief from others, St. Margaret Mary remained humble and obedient. She died on October 17, 1690, and was canonized by Pope Benedict XV in 1920.

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Patronage:

Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Those suffering from heart illness

Converts and religious devotion

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Feast Day:

📅 October 16

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Reflection:

Saint Margaret Mary reminds us of Christ’s great love and desire for our love in return. Through devotion to His Sacred Heart, we are called to make reparation for sins and to grow in compassion and faithfulness.

15/10/2025

Daily Mass Readings for Thursday, October 16, 2025 (28th Week in Ordinary Time)

First Reading — Romans 3:21-30

> 21 But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, though testified to by the law and the prophets.
22 The righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction;
23 all have sinned and are deprived of the glory of God,
24 and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption in Christ Jesus,
25 whom God set forth as an expiation, through faith, by his Blood, to prove his righteousness because of the forgiveness of sins previously committed,
26 through the forbearance of God — to prove his righteousness in the present time, that he might be righteous and justify the one who has faith in Jesus.
27 What occasion is there then for boasting? It is ruled out. On what principle — that of works? No; rather on the principle of faith.
28 For we consider that a person is justified by faith and not by doing what the law tells him to do.
29 Do you think God is the God only of the Jews, and not of Gentiles too? Most certainly of Gentiles too,
30 for God is one and will justify the circumcised on the basis of faith and the uncircumcised through faith.

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Responsorial Psalm — Psalm 130:1b-2, 3-4, 5-6ab
Refrain: With the Lord there is mercy, and fullness of redemption.

1b From the depths I cry to you, Lord;
2 Lord, hear my voice; let your ears be attentive to the voice of my supplication.

3 If you, Lord, kept a record of sins, Lord, who could stand?
4 But with you there is forgiveness, that you may be revered.

5 I wait for you, Lord, my soul waits, and in your word I hope;
6 my soul waits for the Lord more than watchmen wait for the dawn.

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Alleluia — John 14:6

> Alleluia, alleluia.
I am the way and the truth and the life, says the Lord; no one comes to the Father except through me.
Alleluia, alleluia.

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Gospel — Luke 11:47-54

> 47 Woe to you who build the memorials of the prophets whom your fathers killed!
48 Consequently, you bear witness and give consent to the deeds of your ancestors, for they killed them and you do the building.
49 And that is why the Wisdom of God said, “I will send them prophets and apostles; some they will slaughter and persecute,
50 so that this generation will have to answer for every prophet’s blood that has been shed since the foundation of the world,
51 from the blood of Abel to the blood of Zechariah, who perished between the altar and the Temple.” Yes, I tell you, this generation will have to answer for it all.
52 “Alas for you lawyers who have taken away the key of knowledge! You have not gone in yourselves, and you have prevented others from going in who wanted to.”
53 When he left there, the scribes and the Pharisees began a furious attack on him and tried to force answers from him on innumerable questions,
54 lying in wait to catch him out in something he might say.

15/10/2025

What is Faith Healer?
A faith healer is a person who claims to heal others through spiritual or divine power, rather than through medical treatment or science.

Here’s a breakdown:

🔹 Meaning

A faith healer believes that God (or a higher power) works through them to cure physical, emotional, or spiritual illnesses. Healing is said to come through prayer, laying on of hands, holy water, or other religious rituals.

🔹 In Christianity

In Christianity, some people believe faith healing is a gift of the Holy Spirit, based on verses like:

“They will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover.” – Mark 16:18

Many Christians believe true healing comes from faith in Jesus, while others warn against false healers who use the name of God for money or fame.

🔹 Difference from Medical Healing
Faith Healing Medical Healing
Based on belief in divine intervention Based on science and medicine
Uses prayer, touch, or spiritual acts Uses doctors, medicine, and treatment
Works through faith and spiritual power Works through proven medical methods

14/10/2025

🌹 Life Story of Saint Teresa of Ávila (Saint Teresa of Jesus)

Feast Day: October 15
Born: March 28, 1515 – Ávila, Spain
Died: October 4, 1582 – Alba de Tormes, Spain
Canonized: 1622 by Pope Gregory XV
Declared Doctor of the Church: 1970 by Pope Paul VI

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👶 Early Life

Saint Teresa of Ávila was born as Teresa de Cepeda y Ahumada in Ávila, Spain, in 1515. Her parents were deeply religious, and she was the third of nine children. Even as a young girl, Teresa showed a strong devotion to God. At age seven, she tried to run away from home with her brother Rodrigo to become a martyr among the Moors, saying she wanted to “see God.”

After her mother’s death when Teresa was 14, she turned to the Blessed Virgin Mary for comfort, asking her to be her “mother.”

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🕊️ Religious Calling

When Teresa was about 20 years old, she entered the Carmelite Convent of the Incarnation in Ávila, despite her father’s initial objections. At first, convent life was comfortable and social, which distracted her from prayer and discipline. She later fell seriously ill and spent long periods reflecting on her spiritual life.

During this time, Teresa began to experience mystical visions and deep prayer experiences, which made her aware of how far she still had to go in her relationship with God.

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🔥 Reformation of the Carmelites

Teresa saw that many convents had grown too relaxed, losing the spirit of poverty and prayer. She felt called by God to reform the Carmelite Order, returning it to its original simplicity and dedication to contemplation.

In 1562, she founded a new convent called St. Joseph’s in Ávila, where the nuns lived in strict poverty, silence, and prayer. Despite strong opposition—even from within the Church—Teresa continued to found 17 new convents across Spain.

Her work inspired the reform of the Carmelite friars as well, in partnership with Saint John of the Cross. Together, they became known as the founders of the Discalced (barefoot) Carmelites, symbolizing humility and total trust in God.

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✍️ Her Writings

Saint Teresa was also a brilliant writer. Her works are among the greatest treasures of Christian mysticism and spirituality. Her most famous books include:

“The Life of Teresa of Jesus” – her autobiography and spiritual journey

“The Way of Perfection” – a guide for prayer and community life

“The Interior Castle” – a masterpiece describing the soul’s journey toward union with God

Through these writings, she taught that true prayer is “nothing else than a close sharing between friends; it means taking time frequently to be alone with Him who we know loves us.”

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🌿 Death and Canonization

Saint Teresa died on October 4, 1582, in Alba de Tormes, Spain, saying:

> “O my Lord and my Spouse, the hour that I have longed for has come. It is time to meet You.”

She was canonized in 1622 by Pope Gregory XV and declared a Doctor of the Church in 1970 by Pope Paul VI, becoming one of the first women to receive this title.

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💫 Legacy

Saint Teresa of Ávila remains a powerful model of faith, courage, and love of God. Her reform strengthened the Church, her writings continue to guide souls in prayer, and her life reminds us that holiness is reached through humility, perseverance, and trust in God’s mercy.

Her most famous prayer says:

> “Let nothing disturb you,
Let nothing frighten you,
All things are passing;
God never changes.
Patience obtains all things.
Whoever has God lacks nothing;
God alone Suffices.

14/10/2025

Daily Readings for October 15, 2025 (Memorial of Saint Teresa of Ávila) in English:

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First Reading: Romans 2:1-11

1 So no matter who you are, if you pass judgment you have no excuse. It is yourself that you condemn when you judge others, since you behave in the same way as those you are condemning.
2 We are well aware that people who behave like that are justly condemned by God.
3 But you — when you judge those who behave like this while you are doing the same yourself — do you think you will escape God’s condemnation?
4 Or are you not disregarding his abundant goodness, tolerance and patience, failing to realize that this generosity of God is meant to bring you to repentance?
5 Your stubborn refusal to repent is only storing up retribution for yourself on that Day of retribution when God’s just verdicts will be made known.
6 He will repay everyone as their deeds deserve.
7 Eternal life to those who, by perseverance in good works, seek glory, honor, and immortality;
8 but wrath and fury to those who are self-seeking and obey not the truth, but obey wickedness.
9 There will be tribulation and distress for every human being who does evil, the Jew first and then the Greek;
10 but glory, honor, and peace for everyone who does good, the Jew first and then the Greek.
11 For God shows no partiality.

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 62:2-3, 6-7, 9

R. Lord, you give back to everyone according to his works.

2 Only in God is my soul at rest; from him comes my salvation.
3 He only is my rock and my salvation, my stronghold; I shall not be disturbed at all.

R. Lord, you give back to everyone according to his works.

6 But be still, my soul; for God is my hope.
7 He only is my rock and my salvation, my stronghold; I shall not be disturbed.

R. Lord, you give back to everyone according to his works.

9 Trust in him, all you people; pour out your hearts before him — God is our refuge forever.

R. Lord, you give back to everyone according to his works.

Alleluia: John 10:27

My sheep hear my voice, says the Lord; I know them, and they follow me.

Gospel: Luke 11:42-46

42 The Lord said, “Woe to you Pharisees! You pay tithes of mint and of rue and of every garden herb, but you pay no attention to judgment and to love for God. These you should have done, without overlooking the others.
43 Woe to you Pharisees! You love the seat of honor in synagogues and greetings in marketplaces.
44 Woe to you! You are like unseen graves over which people unknowingly walk.”
45 Then one of the scholars of the law said to him in reply, “Teacher, by saying this you are insulting us too.”
46 And he said, “Woe also to you scholars of the law! You impose on people burdens hard to carry, but you yourselves do not lift one finger to touch them.”

13/10/2025

Sacramentals are sacred signs instituted by the Church (not directly by Christ) that prepare us to receive grace and help us grow in holiness. They are different from the seven Sacraments, which actually give grace by their very action — instead, sacramentals help dispose us to receive that grace with faith and devotion.

💠 Examples of Sacramentals:

Holy water – used for blessing and protection.

Sign of the Cross – a reminder of our baptism and faith in the Trinity.

Blessed medals (e.g., Miraculous Medal, St. Benedict Medal).

Rosary – used for prayer and meditation.

Scapulars – signs of devotion and commitment to prayer.

Crucifixes – symbols of Christ’s sacrifice.

Blessed candles, palms, ashes, and oils.

💒 Purposes of Sacramentals:

1. To sanctify our daily life (homes, meals, work, travel).

2. To drive away evil and give spiritual protection.

3. To remind us of God’s presence and the mysteries of faith.

4. To encourage prayer and devotion.

✝️ Who Can Bless Sacramentals?

Priests and deacons can bless most sacramentals.

Bishops can bless certain special objects.

Laypeople can use them, but not bless them (unless permitted in specific cases).

13/10/2025

The Seven Sacraments are sacred signs and channels of grace instituted by Jesus Christ to help us grow in faith and holiness. They are celebrated in the Catholic Church and are grouped into three categories:

🕊️ 1. Baptism

Purpose: Cleanses us from original sin and makes us children of God.

Effect: We become members of the Church.

Symbol: Water.

✝️ 2. Confirmation

Purpose: Strengthens and deepens our baptismal grace.

Effect: We receive the Holy Spirit in fullness.

Symbol: Chrism oil and the laying on of hands.

🍞 3. Eucharist (Holy Communion)

Purpose: Nourishes our soul with the Body and Blood of Christ.

Effect: Unites us more closely with Jesus and the Church.

Symbol: Bread and wine.

🙏 4. Penance or Reconciliation (Confession)

Purpose: Forgives sins committed after Baptism.

Effect: Restores our friendship with God.

Symbol: Words of absolution by the priest.

🩺 5. Anointing of the Sick

Purpose: Gives strength, peace, and healing to those seriously ill or near death.

Effect: Spiritual healing and sometimes physical healing.

Symbol: Holy oil (Oil of the Sick).

💍 6. Matrimony (Marriage)

Purpose: Unites a man and woman in lifelong love and service.

Effect: The couple becomes a sign of Christ’s love for the Church.

Symbol: Exchange of vows and rings.

✝️ 7. Holy Orders

Purpose: Ordains men to serve as deacons, priests, or bishops.

Effect: Gives spiritual authority to serve God’s people.

Symbol: Laying on of hands by the bishop.

13/10/2025

The life story of Saint Callistus I (Pope and Martyr) — a remarkable example of forgiveness, mercy, and redemption:

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🕊 Saint Callistus I – Pope and Martyr

Feast Day: October 14
Born: Late 2nd century, Rome, Italy
Died: c. 222 A.D., Rome
Patron: Gravediggers and cemetery workers

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👶 Early Life

Saint Callistus I was born a slave in Rome. His master, a wealthy Christian named Carpophorus, trusted him with money to invest. However, Callistus lost the funds in a failed business venture.

Fearing punishment, he ran away, but he was caught and imprisoned. Later, he was released but soon got into another conflict that led to his being sent to the mines in Sardinia, a harsh penal colony where many Christians suffered and died.

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🕯 Release and Service to the Church

Through the intercession of Marcia, the Christian wife of Emperor Commodus, several prisoners were released — including Callistus.

He returned to Rome and was taken under the care of Pope Zephyrinus, who recognized his intelligence and faith.
Pope Zephyrinus appointed him deacon and administrator of the Christian cemeteries on the Via Appia, which later became known as the Catacombs of Saint Callistus.

These catacombs became one of the most important burial sites for early Christians and martyrs.

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⛪ Becoming Pope

When Pope Zephyrinus died around 217 A.D., Callistus was elected as the 16th Pope of the Church.

As Pope, he emphasized God’s mercy and forgiveness. He taught that even serious sinners — such as those guilty of adultery or apostasy — could be reconciled through true repentance.

This teaching caused controversy. A priest named Hippolytus accused him of being too lenient and even declared himself the first antipope (a rival pope). Despite this opposition, Callistus remained firm in his belief that no sin was greater than God’s mercy.

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⚔️ Martyrdom

Under Emperor Alexander Severus, persecutions against Christians resumed.
Around 222 A.D., Pope Callistus was killed for his faith. Tradition says he was thrown into a deep well with a heavy stone tied around his neck in the Trastevere district of Rome.

He was buried in the Catacomb of Calepodius on the Aurelian Way.

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🌹 Legacy

First slave to become Pope — a symbol that holiness and leadership in the Church come from God, not social status.

Defended the Church’s teaching on repentance, forgiveness, and divine mercy.

The Catacombs of St. Callistus remain one of the most sacred early Christian sites in Rome.

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🙏 Prayer to Saint Callistus I

> O Saint Callistus, faithful servant and shepherd of Christ’s flock,
you taught that no one is beyond God’s mercy.
Help us to forgive as we have been forgiven,
and to trust in the boundless love of our Lord.
Pray for us that we may remain faithful even in trials.
Amen

13/10/2025

Daily Readings for Tuesday, October 14, 2025

Reading I — Romans 1:16-25

16 Brothers and sisters:
I am not ashamed of the Gospel.
It is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes:
for Jew first, and then Greek.
17 For in it is revealed the righteousness of God from faith to faith;
as it is written, “The one who is righteous by faith will live.”

The wrath of God is indeed being revealed from heaven
against every impiety and wickedness
of those who suppress the truth by their wickedness.
For what can be known about God is evident to them,
because God made it evident to them.
Ever since the creation of the world,
his invisible attributes of eternal power and divinity
have been able to be understood and perceived in what he has made.
As a result, they have no excuse;
for although they knew God
they did not accord him glory as God or give him thanks.
Instead, they became vain in their reasoning,
and their senseless minds were darkened.
While claiming to be wise, they became fools
and exchanged the glory of the immortal God
for the likeness of an image of mortal man
or of birds or of four-legged animals or of snakes.

Therefore, God handed them over to impurity
through the lusts of their hearts
for the mutual degradation of their bodies.
They exchanged the truth of God for a lie
and revered and worshiped the creature rather than the Creator,
who is blessed forever. Amen.

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Responsorial Psalm — Psalm 19:2-3, 4-5

R. (2a) The heavens proclaim the glory of God.

The heavens declare the glory of God,
and the firmament proclaims his handiwork.
Day pours out the word to day,
and night to night imparts knowledge.

R. The heavens proclaim the glory of God.

Not a word nor a discourse
whose voice is not heard;
Through all the earth their voice resounds,
and to the ends of the world, their message.

R. The heavens proclaim the glory of God.

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Alleluia — Hebrews 4:12

Alleluia, alleluia.
The word of God is living and effective,
able to discern reflections and thoughts of the heart.
Alleluia, alleluia.

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Gospel — Luke 11:37-41

After Jesus had spoken,
a Pharisee invited him to dine at his home.
He entered and reclined at table to eat.
The Pharisee was amazed to see
that he did not observe the prescribed washing before the meal.

The Lord said to him, “Oh you Pharisees!
Although you cleanse the outside of the cup and the dish,
inside you are filled with plunder and evil.
You fools!
Did not the maker of the outside also make the inside?
But as to what is within, give alms,
and behold, everything will be clean for you.”

Words of God

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