Every Christian is an Agent of Transformation
The Order of Malta Philippines held its monthly spiritual formation last July 11, 2019. Fr. Jean Marie Rollin “Tuzzi” Flores, superior provincial of the Society of St. Paul celebrated the Holy Eucharist and gave pointers on how to become agents of transformation during his homily.
Fr. Tuzzi, reflecting on the day’s gospel (Mt: 10-7-15), said the Kingdom of God is at hand when there are signs of transformation and renewal taking place.
Fr. Tuzzi, then echoed what he learned from Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle about the traits of Christians who answer the call of becoming agents of transformation and renewal.
“To be an agent of transformation, one needs to be a dreamer, not just a big dreamer, but to dream the very dream of God,” said Fr. Tuzzi.
For Fr. Tuzzi, the dream of God is to recover what was lost in sin and bring His people back to paradise.
Fr. Tuzzi also said that like a poet, an agent of transformation sees great things out of the ordinary, and the hand of God even in defeat and suffering.
Fr. Tuzzi remarked that in our present context, calling for transformation is a dangerous business.
“But salvation is only for those who hope…and it is only for the brave.”
Finally, Fr. Tuzzi said an agent of transformation loves in obedience to Christ’s command.
“At first, it is inconceivable for us to be commanded to love other people because we think love is a feeling. But true love is a decision and a commitment. That is Christ’s commandment of love.”
The Spiritual Formation for July was hosted by Doña Josephine Bantug and Ambassador Mercedes Tuason. The Order of Malta’s spiritual formation sessions date back to 1948 during the establishment of the Order in the country. A more intensive and regular spiritual formation started in 2007 upon the advice of Magistral Chaplains Msgr. Bong Lo and Fr. Genaro Diwa. Through the activity, the Knights and Dames are expected to appreciate their membership in the Order as a means of sanctification and spiritual revitalization.
