By Shirley Lascano

When the confirmation of Pope Francis’ trip to the Philippines was announced, Filipinos in Brooklyn and Queens received the news full of hope, a year after the most devastating typhoon Yolanda hit our homeland. The resiliency and strength of the Filipinos are rooted in the deep faith. They believe that God will never abandon them, no matter what happens. With every challenge that come in life, the spirit of “bayanihan” – camaraderie – lifts the spirit of every Filipino whether near or far. This spirit is the greatest trait and character of being a Filipino!

On the outset, the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) received a message from the Vatican to keep the preparations at a minimal. From the news we hear through the Filipino channels, people have donated their time, talent and dedication to become a part of the pope’s visit. And thus the “bayanihan” spirit is again present not only during the challenges of calamities, but rather an outpouring of blessings to give back to their faith.

There will be many traditions for Pope Francis to witness in the Philippines. One of them is the “jeepney” trademark for his popemobile. Like Pope John Paul II who opted for an open mobile, Pope Francis will also ride on one.

The pope’s visit will concentrate his visit to the Yolanda survivors in the province of Leyte. During his itinerary, Pope Francis will spend time and eat with the people who represent Christ and he will celebrate Holy Mass with them.

A year after the disastrous storm, people are still suffering although some parts of the region may be seeing some signs of recovery. Still, it is difficult to see the situation of some of our fellow countrymen. Sometimes I wonder what happened to all the aid that flowed in from around the world?

There is also the question about the fact that Philippine President Benigno Aquino has yet to pay a visit to Tacloban, the hardest hit area of the typhoon. Does politics still play a role? On the other hand, do representatives of the city of Tacloban contribute to this lapse in judgment? Whatever might be the case, people should come first? Do “children” come first? Does humanity come first?

The pope’s visit and his message could be a wake-up call to the Philippines – the country, its government and its citizens.

I would love to be a part of this historic first visit of Pope Francis to my homeland. I think he is a wonderful inspiration to the people of the Philippines at a time when the country is suffering turmoil in many aspects of life and faith. His presence will highlight what today’s world is looking for. Not only in the Philippines, but the entire world is hungry and is searching for a forgotten sense of what humanity is all about and that is to see Christ in one another!

Shirley Lascano is a member of the Filipino Apostolate at St. Michael’s parish, Flushing.