UST RECTOR Fr. Herminio Dagohoy, O.P. reminded Thomasians that anticipating Christ’s second coming is the real meaning of Advent, during his homily in the opening Mass for this year’s Paskuhan festivities.
“During Advent, we are asked not only to look backwards in Jesus’ coming as man but at the same time, look forward in bigger anticipation of the coming of God’s kingdom when He returns,” Dagohoy said.
Dagohoy also said giving away presents is not the focus of Christmas.
“How easy it is for us to value material gifts and give them away as presents, but that is not the imperative of Christmas. For us to appreciate the need, joy and hope that Advent brings in our life, we have to see how far we have estranged ourselves from God,” Dagohoy said.
Dagohoy explained that Advent season is a call for Christians to “celebrate and cheer up.”
“There are times when it appears as though there is nothing to cheer about… [B]ut the Advent season gives us a reason to celebrate and cheer up,” he said.
“If you know how to remember and not to forget the blessing that we have received, we have all the reason to thank God,” Dagohoy added.
An Agape for the Thomasian community and the lighting of Christmas displays, led by Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso, followed the Mass.
The UST Christmas Concert, titled “Christmas Around the World,” will be on Dec. 5.
The Paskuhan concert is slated on Dec. 20. with reports from Charm Ryanne C. Magpali
