HEALTH IS WEALTH

Last August 26, 2023, the St. Matthew Province held a virtual conference on Health. Dr. Edna Lao gave the talk as she imparted her expertise in the said field. Present at the conference was the Provincial Superior, Fr. Orville Cajigal, provincial councilors, and religious confreres within the province. Fr. Jorge Casaberde aided the activity as the moderator, assisted by some of the postulants.

The virtual talk was an initial response of the province on the alarming health issues experienced by some of the religious. It primarily aims to inform and discuss with the members of the province what could be the reasons behind the health crises. From sharing the chemical intakes, extreme productions, and compositions (e.g., creatinine, cholesterol, etc.) to the observance of a healthy and balanced diet, Dr. Edna Lao encouraged everyone to do a careful, yet unstrict intakes of food especially fried and sugary foods, as well as alcohol. Likewise, Dr. Lao emphasizes her role as to only inform and not to convince everyone, hence leaving the subsequent actions to the hands of the members.

After the talk, the fathers raised questions that further substantiated the topic, especially on heart problems, food control, alcohol intake, etc. Afterward, Fr. Orville gave his words of gratitude and acknowledgment to everyone involved in the virtual talk on health. Then, Fr. Ronaldo Paulino, the Provincial Councilor on Formation, gave his closing remarks which highlighted the spiritual framework of one’s purpose to care for the body. The activity ended with a virtual group photo.

Everyone longs for the longevity of his/her life. However, it would never be realized without proper actions. Henceforth, the preservation of one’s health lies in one’s conviction that we have the primary duty to take care of our borrowed human bodies. Looking forward to more health talks!

Article: Postulant Ryan Bongcac