Can you recognize them? No, they are not inmates! These men and women in uniform and military haircut are trainees of the Philippine National Police. They are our “far away” audience, even if our media center is only a two-minute drive from their camp. Some of them do not really know us, while others find it difficult to visit our media center due to their hectic schedule.
Last March 10, 2013, fourth Sunday of Lent, we had a book display at the chapel of Camp Ola in Legazpi City. Our audience belonged to the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police. Some members of their families, who come from the different parts of our country and are residing inside the camp, were also with them. Most of those who attended the nine o’clock Sunday morning Mass are trainees of the PNP. As we can see in the picture, they were very eager to see our books, audio visuals, mini media and religious articles. They were very happy to have something to ponder upon these days.
Our arrival was very timely, since it was Lenten Season, a time for spiritual renewal. Three days before the book display, Fr. Alfredo Macua, the camp’s chaplain, had announced our mission during the Mass. We are grateful to him, because he encouraged them to have good reading materials for their spiritual growth. Before we went back home, Fr Alfredo invited us to come regularly.
Their desire to quench their thirst for God has inspired me more to serve Him in the field apostolate.