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The Gift of Life: The Gospel according to Richie
Raul L. Locsin
HR
I came across this book The Gift of Life while undergoing an encounter retreat in Antipolo recently. Actually it was the last day of our community retreat and there was a makeshift stand selling books and religious items near the dining hall. I was on my way for lunch when I saw this book displayed among the other books. What immediately struck me was the name Richie Fernando on the front cover page.
Richie Fernando, hmm… that name sounds familiar. I first saw his name on an album of the cassette tape "Friends in the Lord" by the Jesuit Music Ministry. Later on, I saw that there was a video about the life of Richie Fernando, S.J. entitled Greater Love.
Who was he? What did he do that generated so much love and respect from his friends, and his family and his other family, the Jesuits? There was that much curiosity in me to know that I didn't think twice about buying the book. Normally I don't like reading biography or autobiography of other people but this was an exception.
The book is a collection of stories pieced together to give us a glimpse of Richie's life and whom he was to those who have known him. Family members, friends from his schooldays, other friends of Richie and from his second family, the Jesuits, contributed most of the stories.
Richie's life seemed like the ordinary. Like the stories on his growing years, getting a good education, getting a degree, dreams and ambitions he wanted to pursue. The stories are inspiring and heartwarming, some are funny, and some may even evoke memories and tears.
But beyond the ordinariness and the routine of life, Richie strived for something more. He was a person conscientious and sensitive to the needs of the less fortunate. More than the sense of pity, he translated his experiences with the poor into finding meaning on his life.
Though he was not sure at first if he had the calling to become a priest. He nonetheless overcame his vulnerabilities, his fears and the numerous obstacles that could have discouraged him from discerning what God's plan for him. With the grace of God and with the right company, he left the comfortable life and chose a different and difficult path.
During the formation years and up to the last moment of his life, he lived a life of service to others. Yes, abruptly he died so young but all whom have known him agreed that he lived life to the fullest. He who treasured his life offered it as a gift for others. Indeed, a precious gift that is only possible through following Christ.
After reading the book, the story of his life is soul-provoking. This is not your ordinary feel good book or chicken soup for the soul. For beyond and in between the lines that you read about the retelling on the life of Richie, tells of another story mirroring that of our Lord. Words that became flesh : "There is no greater love than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends." John 15:13.
And that is the Gospel according to Richie Fernando, S.J.
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