(Photo by Nico Balagtas)
My mom died when I was 10 years old, I felt so bereft and alone. My maternal (and favorite grandmother) also died a few months later. At Grade 4, I had days when I would refuse to go to school or I would escape from our school bus and leave to wander around the neighborhood.
I felt angry at God for taking away my mom at such a young age. I was angry at Him for leaving me to fend for myself and for my sister. My dad did not go home for two years after this (he is a seaman). I felt so alone.
Music was my only solace during this time. My mom used to sing with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Choral. And I felt closest to her when I would sing or when I would hear the songs during mass.
I felt angry at God for taking away my mom at such a young age. I was angry at Him for leaving me to fend for myself and for my sister. My dad did not go home for two years after this (he is a seaman). I felt so alone.
Music was my only solace during this time. My mom used to sing with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Choral. And I felt closest to her when I would sing or when I would hear the songs during mass.
At the Simbang Gabi of Year 2011 (Photo by Nico Balagtas)
And so, I always felt that music was my bridge way to heaven. I joined the Apostleship of Prayer Youth. We are a mixed group of High School Students, College Students, Young Professionals, and Senior members who already had families. I started as one of the youngest in the bunch. I was one of altos who didn’t really know her notes and who didn’t want to sing out loud. But there were people who pushed me to do better, who believed in me, and who even gave their endorsement for me to become an officer. It has been seven years of service, sacrifice, friendship, love, and blessings.
APY members... the young and the young at heart
APY looks to the future (Photo by Nico Balagtas)
Next year, our current president will pass on the baton to me. I will have my chance to ensure that this organization continues to be a home for young people like me. Young people who are lost, confused, angry at God, and alone. I want to create an organization that uses music as prayer, as an inspiration, and as a way to speak to the world.
the more the merrier! (Photo by Nico Balagtas)
Through the losses I incurred, I have gained so much. God has emptied me from my pride, my sinfulness, my greed and has filled me with His grace and His love.
When I sing for our different engagements (our regular Sunday mass at 5:30 pm, Caroling, weddings, and even wakes), I am reminded of St. Augustine’s words, “He who sings, prays twice.”
May our songs continue to be God’s voice in our parish community.
When I sing for our different engagements (our regular Sunday mass at 5:30 pm, Caroling, weddings, and even wakes), I am reminded of St. Augustine’s words, “He who sings, prays twice.”
May our songs continue to be God’s voice in our parish community.
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