Tarlac, Tarlac Philippines
13 April 2009
Here in the Philippines the country has just finished Holy Week – 90 percent Catholic. The week has three days where businesses are closed – Monday, Thursday and Friday and there is not much done the rest of the week. Needless to say it is a week long holiday and everyone wants to get out into the provinces and mountains so the main roads will be a mess all week with all the extra traffic this reminds us of holiday travel in the US.
Two other interesting things that take place in the communities – one is that people will be along the roads carrying crosses that are very heavy. We see more resting as we travel than moving in the heat of the day. But they are very impressive crosses made out of good sized trees. The second thing is you will see young men in groups walking along whipping themselves across their back and their backs are bleeding.
Interesting enough with the main religion – Catholicism they do not observe the Sabbath day – it is just another work day for the people including Easter.
Easter weekend in the Philippines. Saturday and Sunday we were able to watch the delayed broadcast of April General Conference in the stake and district centers. Saturday started with Priesthood Session at 8 a.m. then an hour break between each succeeding session. We loved being able to listen to the brethren and sisters as they instructed us just as if we were back home. Saturday sessions were not well attended but Sunday morning session was full to running over. We were touched by Elder Holland’s remarks about the Savior and were uplifted to a higher understanding of his sacrifice for us. What a special two days.
We had a real contrast between our Easter and the dominate religion.
Elder NB & Sister MB
3 comments:
Boy, you two are sure experiencing some unique situations there. So happy to hear you were able to watch conference...it was incredibly uplifting and we were sad when the two days were over. Hopefully we can remember all that touched our hearts and we can live our lives more in accodance with the Lord's will. What a darling picture.
We actually, don't faint, dvr-ed conference. I thought it would be a good reference--easier than getting some to actually read when the articles are published!! Glad you are well--you look great. Love you--Cam & fam ;)
Those are the kind of Saturdays and Sundays you wish you could have every week! Such a spiritual high to listen to conference! And Elder Holland talk WAS magnificent! Love you much, Melissa
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