Week 12 - 

Last week was a slow week, it being Holy Week here in the Philippines.  We did not participate in the festivities, but felt the effects of the celebration.  Everything pretty much came to a stand-still, especially on Friday, when everything was closed.  Saturday night, starting at 11:00 until sunrise, there was a continual fireworks display.  Pretty hard to sleep for sure!  
      This picture is from a newspaper, but depicts some of what went on.

Filipino devotee Ruben Enaje shouts in pain as he stays nailed to a cross to re-enact the crucifixion of Jesus Christ in San Pedro Cutud village, Pampanga province, northern Philippines on Friday, April 18, 2014. AP

Editor’s Note: The annual commemoration of Holy Week—marking the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, which begins on Palm Sunday, climaxes on Jesus’ crucifixion on Good Friday and culminates in the joyful celebration on Easter Sunday of the resurrection—and its pious customs observed in Roman Catholic tradition also find expression in the mainstream Protestant denominations and evangelical churches.

How members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints celebrate Easter Week - Click on Easter Week Activities

After attending Church, we finished our Easter Sunday by sharing a traditional American Easter dinner.  It consisted of ham, Randy potatoes (I discovered how to make my own sour cream using cream cheese and thinning it with milk) salad, rolls, veggies and assorted desserts.  It was interesting that the Filipinos in attendance, weren't that impressed with our meal, much like we aren't with their traditional meals. 

On Monday, while coming back to the apartment from shopping, we came upon this man who is by our corner each week.  He sometimes uses a rock which sticks out of the wall as a pillow.  He is usually sleeping, but this time was awake and sitting in the gutter.  We couldn't tell if he has legs but I don't think he does.  I felt impressed to stop and give him some pesos and a picture of the Savior.  As we drove away, he kissed the picture and held it close. Talk about a humbling experience.  I think I take way too much for granted.  It was a great experience to close Holy Week and being away from family at Easter.

We want everyone to know:

• Because Christ was resurrected, there is no sting in death.  We will live again.
• The Savior has taken upon Himself our sins and given us the power to become like Him if we will repent and keep His commandments.
•  He feels our pains, sorrows, disappointments, sadness, and all the heartache we feel, but we can find peace through Him.
• We believe in and worship the Living Christ.
• We are most desirous that our children, grandchildren, extended family and all those whom we love will learn of Him, and strive to be like Him.  

         Have a good week.  Remember who you are! and Keep on Keepin' On!  We love you!