By Hector Pascua, ABS-CBN European News Bureau
VIENNA, Austria – Young Filipino members of the Filipino Catholic Chaplaincy recently staged a Christmas musical play in Vienna.
Members of the Youth Ministry of the Chaplaincy performed in “Jesus of Nazareth,” a musical play about the birth of Jesus Christ.
“We want to inspire and uplift the spirits and the hearts of the youths, as they play the nativity scenes,” said Fr. Ely Dalanon, parish priest of the Filipino Community.
Sr. Claire Marie Obrero, leader of the Filipino Catholic Youth Ministry, is hoping to encourage the youth to play a more active role in the church and community.
“The Filipino Chaplaincy in Vienna aims to empower the young people to live as disciples of Jesus Christ in our world today. Through their responsible participation in the life, mission and work of the chaplaincy, we would be able to foster personal and spiritual growth of each young person,” Sr. Claire told ABS-CBN News.
“Christmas is remembering the birth of Christ, who is God’s greatest gift to mankind. While we receive God’s gift in our lives, let us also receive His invitation to give ourselves as gift to others. Sharing one’s talent is just like sharing your gifts to others,” a youth participant told ABS-CBN News.
Fr.Antonious, OSB, an Austrian Priest who watched the play, commended the young Filipinos for giving a professional presentation.
“Their performance was musical, well balanced and confident. And I must say, these Filipino youths are the one that our church needs. I want to affirm the words of the Pope during the closing Mass of World Youth Day 2011 in Madrid that the faith of the youths is very much alive also their creative charity and the energy of their hope. Indeed their presence and fine performance of the Nativity of Jesus renews, rejuvenates and gives new energy to the Church,” said Fr. Antonious.
