Easter is a time for renewal and hope. It is a reminder that in the hope brought about by our faith, darkness and death do not have the last say. A new life and a better tomorrow can be found if we work for them trusting in God. This message is significant for us Filipinos not only during our elections, but in our journey to become responsible citizens building a more just, compassionate, and loving society.
Our responsibility as citizens does not end in voting. Our Church invites us to embrace a better kind of politics rooted in compassion and solidarity through political engagement (Fratelli Tutti, Chapter 5). This kind of politics is not leader-centered but culture-centered. It emphasizes the importance of building a culture of participation and accountability in pursuit of the common good. It calls us to live out a faith that does justice. Voting, participating in meaningful dialogues, and promoting respect for human dignity are important aspects of the Church’s mission. Elections are only one part of our responsibility in advocating for good governance and engaging actively in political life.
This Easter, may this reflection-action guide help us to reflect on our responsibility as bearers of hope, not only through our vote, but in our perseverance to be active co-laborers with God in transforming our society. We invite you to read, ponder, pray, and act, so that with each step we take as a people, we see the growing light of new life for our nation.
These guides were prepared in collaboration with Christian Life Community in the Philippines (CLCP). ICSI and CLCP would also like thank the Theology Department of the Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU Theology Department) for their contributions in writing this reflection guide.
Click the image below to download the guide.
