Bacolod Bishop Vicente Navarra reminded the youth in the diocese to value truth, honesty, good morals and decency in their lives and to nurture their faith, as the country marked the National Youth Day yesterday.

Navarra also called on the youth to be mature and responsible in their actions, and to be prayerful, in his homily during the first day of the Misa de Gallo at the San Sebastian Cathedral in Bacolod City .

Noting the large number of youth who attended the 3:30 a.m. mass at the cathedral yesterday, he reminded them of their duties as Christians to cultivate their faith through meaningful activities and habits.

He also encouraged them to get involved in church activities organized by the Diocesan Youth Commission which is tasked to strengthen the foundation of the youth's faith through holistic endeavors.

The bishop also challenged parents to be role models of their children and to reflect on the wisdom of the words “The family that prays together, stays together”.

He said parents should protect their children and ensure that they grow physically, emotionally and spiritually.

Reflecting on recent incidents that victimized young people, the bishop said it is the absence of prayers that alienate a person from God, making him unafraid to commit sin.

As the nation prepares for Christmas, it will be meaningful if one integrates sacrifices in the observance of traditions such as attending the Misa de Gallo, he said.*NAB

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