NFE 2020 News: Testimonies ~ “Just the Way You Are”

As I write, I am humming the song, “Just The Way You Are,” by Billy Joel. This line somehow sums up the Testimonies we have heard this wonderful Sunday NFE morning.

          Following the Talk of Kim Travero of Verbum Dei-Cebu, on Gifted to Give, we heard from four (4) of our young, talented Missionaries in Formation, namely: Gelo Balsita, Rudy Esmeralda, Mylene Capuras and Angelyn Enriquez who shared their personal experiences and ideas on giftedness. They likewise facilitated the Testimonies of Verbum Dei members from the different realities.

          Mylene intimated that to follow the Lord, is also to “just be who you are” for He accepts us, as we are. We can become bearers of light to others, too. Gelo for his part said, we can find ourselves when we give ourselves to others, just as Jesus did. While Angelyn mentioned faith as the greatest gift one could receive to get even closer to the Lord. Rudy cited simplicity in offering oneself to God despite weaknesses and struggles in life.

          Kharis Barbosa, a Verbum Dei Kid from Musuan, Bukidnon shared her “journey” with Jesus despite her young age. Although she loves receiving material gifts, she now gives thanks for becoming an active Verbum Dei Kid in her community and making Mt. 6:33 as her guiding verse - to seek first the Kingdom of God.

          Young professional, Carmela Badajos, was invited to the Verbum Dei community at a time she was having some crisis in life. With the concrete support and friendship of Verbum Dei -Pasig members, she now enjoys her life and is an active member of the community, giving testimonies and bringing even her family members to Verbum Dei.

          Alma Acuna, a working professional from Verbum Dei -Tagaytay enjoys the gifts she has received from God: a family with 3 kids, her profession as a mentor who has a graduate degree and her current affiliation as a growing follower of Jesus with the Verbum Dei community.

          Gabs Lanada, a Verbum Dei Youth from Pasig, gave a very honest and realistic testimony of himself admitting his imperfections and struggles with his young life. But, despite his doubts and insecurities, he continues to serve as a youth leader. He gave us some nuggets of wisdom by saying, “it’s ok not to be ok,” for God allows us to be who we are and still accepts us.

          Angel Paguia a VERBUM DEI-Cebu Teen, wowed listeners by her powerful testimony, that prayer can also transform young people; that we can also “jam with the Lord” and sing songs to inspire ourselves and others. “With a Smile” by The Eraserheads is her favorite song which she sung to the delight of her listeners.
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          Wow, this morning’s testimonies really made everyone’s day complete already. As the moderators said, don’t be scared to become a VERBUM DEI missionary in whatever circumstances you may be in because we are all gifts and gifted to give to others. Verbum Dei is a place for us all. “Come and see the goodness of the Lord.” (Psalm 34:8).