46^th FOUNDING ANNIVERSARY MASS CELEBRATED BY FR. AQUINO

Fr. Ranhilio Callangan Aquino, University Chaplain and Consultant delivered a powerful homily during the Mass of the 46th Founding Anniversary of the Cagayan State University, urging the community to prioritize people above all else. Drawing from the Gospel, Fr. Aquino emphasized the importance of treating others with compassion and humility, rather than seeking recognition and accolades for oneself.

In his homily, Fr. Aquino highlighted the hypocrisy of the scribes and pharisees, who sought praise and honor for their actions rather than genuinely caring for those around them. He challenged the university community to reflect on their own actions and consider how they treat the least among them, including COS and JO providers and students.

Fr. Aquino questioned the motives behind the pursuit of titles and distinctions within the university, urging faculty members to focus on the well-being and growth of their students rather than personal vanity. He emphasized the importance of serving others with the privilege and knowledge that they have been given, in line with the law of evangelical justice.

On the feast day of St. Anthony of Padua, known for his dedication to teaching and preaching the truth with zeal, Fr. Aquino encouraged the CSU community to follow in the footsteps of the saint by loving the Lord through their interactions with others. He reminded them that true honor comes from recognizing the face of God in the weakest and most vulnerable members of the CSU community.

As CSU celebrates its 46th anniversary, Fr. Aquino’s homily is a powerful reminder to prioritize people over achievements and to strive for genuine compassion and humility in all actions. By following the example of St. Anthony and seeking to honor God through service to others, the CSU community can truly embody the values of love and respect that are at the core of the university.