Karl Gaspar’s passion for the subject matter is evident throughout the book, as he skillfully guides the readers on a captivating journey of discovery
FOR the second part of our review of Karl Gaspar’s Diwang Balaan Banal/Banal A Decolonial Discourse on Pinoy Spirituality, I will delve on the Chapter: the Praxis arising out of a Pinoy Spirituality discourse.
Here, Karl discusses the compelling social issues in the country and the church’s challenges and responses.
The author advances the thesis that while it is true that religious ministers do not engage in partisan political activity that is the proper domain of the laity, neither can they renounce the political dimension of life itself.
He said there should be constant attention to the common good and concern for integral human development.
He believes there is a need to ask what is hindering the fullness of the citizens. What are the problems for most Filipinos?
One problem identified was the pandemic, the human rights. Many church encyclicals address these problems. But how do we concretize these?
Pope Francis urges us to create a different culture, and rediscover our vocation as citizens of our own nations and of the world.
Rediscovering our vocation as citizens of our own nations and of the world is an important concept in today’s interconnected and globalized world.
It involves recognizing and embracing our roles and responsibilities as members of both local and global communities, and actively engaging in the betterment of society at various levels.
At the national level, rediscovering our vocation as citizens means actively participating in the political process, staying informed about important issues, and exercising our rights and responsibilities as voters.
It involves taking an interest in the well-being of our nation, advocating for positive change, and holding our leaders accountable.
By actively engaging in the affairs of our nation, we can contribute to shaping policies and initiatives that promote justice, equality, and social progress.
Ensure human rights through development, work toward better kind of politics.
Education and Awareness: Development efforts should prioritize education and awareness regarding human rights.
By fostering a culture that values and respects human rights, societies can create a strong foundation for justice and equality.
Poverty is closely linked to the violation of human rights.
Effective development strategies should focus on eradicating poverty and reducing inequalities to provide individuals with access to basic necessities such as food, clean water, healthcare, and education.
Establishing a robust legal framework that upholds human rights is crucial. This includes ensuring an independent judiciary, access to justice, and protection against discrimination, violence, and exploitation.
Empowering Marginalized Groups. Development efforts should prioritize the empowerment of marginalized groups such as women, ethnic minorities, indigenous communities, and persons with disabilities.
This involves addressing systemic barriers, providing equal opportunities, and amplifying their voices in decision-making
Ensure the process of dialogue, which is a crucial aspect of effective communication and problem-solving.
It involves the exchange of ideas, thoughts, and perspectives between two or more individuals or groups.
To ensure the success of a dialogue, several key factors need to be considered:
Active listening is a fundamental skill in dialogue.
It involves paying full attention to the speaker, understanding their message, and demonstrating that you are engaged in the conversation. It is important to avoid interrupting, genuinely understand the speaker’s perspective, and respond appropriately.
Dialogue requires participants to approach the conversation with respect for each other’s ideas and opinions, even if they differ from their own.
Open-mindedness is essential for fostering an environment where diverse perspectives can be shared without judgment or prejudice.
And finally, surrender totally to God.
In the context of Filipino spirituality, surrendering to God can help individuals develop a deeper connection with their faith and cultivate a stronger relationship with the divine.
It encourages humility, trust, and reliance on God’s guidance and wisdom. Surrendering can also provide a sense of peace and contentment, as individuals release their worries and burdens to a higher power.
This is the only way by which Filipino spirituality can have an impact on our lives.
In the final chapter of the book, Karl reflects on the spirituality of the Filipino nation beyond the 500 years of Christianity in the Philippines.
He sees the need for church personnel to be in solidarity with the indigenous peoples as they struggle for self-determination.
The book is a thought-provoking book that delves into the rich and vibrant indigenous spiritual traditions of the Philippines.
The book aims to shed light on challenges faced by church workers as they navigate the distinct practices of Filipino indigenous spirituality.
Karl Gaspar’s passion for the subject matter is evident throughout the book, as he skillfully guides the readers on a captivating journey of discovery.
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