FIRST RESPONSE

Last month, a diverse group of Southeast Asians gathered for the interactive Humanitarian Aid & Disaster Relief course. We are grateful for God’s providence, that flowed through the facilitators from Caritas Philippines and the participants who spent their weekend learning how to help those who suffer.

Among the participants, seen laughing in the leftmost corner of the image above, is Fr. Arnold Abelardo, CMF, from the Philippines. He is the director of Ako Ang Saklay ('I am the crutches'), a non-profit organisation focused on alleviating poverty and illness in a holistic way to empower women, youth, and persons with disabilities.

As a Christian, Fr. Arnold shared that the first response when reaching out to people who suffer is that of compassion, gentleness, and offering one's life:

 “Our first response is not so much about, 'Oh, I have this. I have that.' It should be that of love and compassion – to be able to see Jesus in those who suffer – and with that, to recognise the dignity of every person.

Because of the disaster and calamity, perhaps there are family members who get lost or sick, or [their] house, property and job was affected. The most important response is that spirit of solidarity – to see where the people are and to respond always with respect – not out of arrogance or because I have money, but to be able to use my person, life, resources, time, treasure, and talents to uplift another.

We have been created by God in His image and likeness, so when we look at those who suffer, we look at them with love and compassion because they have the same dignity and are created in the image and likeness of God. Always respond with the heart, with love. Sometimes we say, 'I don’t have it'. No. When you respond, God will provide because He will never abandon you.”