Montemaria is ‘sacred ground,’ not commercial
“Jesus took Peter, James, and John his brother, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. And he was transfigured before them … Then Peter said to Jesus in reply, ‘Lord, it is good that we are here.’” (Mt 17: 1-3)
Last March 16, I, too, was on a mountain consecrated to Mary when this Gospel was read and heard by around 10,000 Catholics. As I listened intently to the homily of Fr. Fernando Suarez, I uttered the words of Peter: “Lord, it is good that we are here.”
Montemaria has been the spiritual home of thousands of Marian devotees from the time the first Mass was celebrated there on March 13, 2010. March 16 was the fourth anniversary of the eucharistic presence in Montemaria, the source of spiritual food for Catholic pilgrims who commute every Sunday so they can receive Christ in communion.
Father Suarez announced during the Mass that the “last” Mass in Montemaria would be held on Easter Sunday (April 20). Thereafter, the 33 hectares will be returned to the donor, a corporation named after the Archangel Michael. Despite the unwarranted attacks on his person, he made the announcement with forgiveness and Ignatian indifference.
Ignatian indifference is about freedom from created things, and using only the goods of the earth for the common good, particularly the poorest of the poor and in accordance with God’s will. Father Suarez, nonetheless, extended his gratitude to the corporation for the four years that the Missionaries of Mary Mother of the Poor and companions were allowed to use the land for Masses, healing and conversion.
As one who has been graced by the priestly ministry of Father Suarez in Montemaria, I thank God and pray that the land where thousands of Catholics were blessed would be used appropriately. Montemaria is consecrated land. Even in its makeshift chapel, I have witnessed a community grow in their faith as they worship God in eucharistic celebrations. I have never seen so much faith in our people. With their eyes closed and bowed heads they turn to Mary to intercede on their behalf. This is such a moving sight to behold that even the hardest of skeptics will turn to God to pray that they may be healed of their unbelief.
Father Suarez always claims he is not the healer, but it is Christ Himself who heals because of our faith. Last Sunday, a father with his young son affirmed that his son was healed of leukemia. There are so many other miracles of healing attributed to faith strengthened by Father Suarez’s laying of hands and encouragement to believe in Christ’s healing power. To discredit the miracles in Montemaria is an affront to the Holy Spirit.
If indeed Montemaria will no longer be in Amuyong, the land where it once stood remains consecrated, for God has made His presence and power felt in that land. To change it from consecrated to commercial land is like pouring beer into the sacred chalice that is used for Mass.
—RENE OLIVEROS, PhD
