An 8-Minute Sunday Homily Is Enough, Says Philippine Bishop to Clergy

Presiding over the Chrism Mass at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral of Cubao in the National Capital Region of the Philippines, Bishop Elias Ayuban, CMF, called on his clergy to rediscover their identity and mission.

“The most powerful homily is the witness of our life,” he said, adding with a touch of humor, “An 8–10-minute homily is good enough on Sundays.”

During the liturgy, Bishop Ayuban blessed the Oil of the Sick, the Oil of Catechumens, and the Sacred Chrism, elements essential to the life of the Church, particularly in the sacraments of baptism, confirmation, ordination, and the anointing of the sick.

The Diocese of Cubao, though geographically small, is known for its notably high concentration of religious congregations, making the gathering a visible sign of unity among diverse religious communities and diocesan clergy.

Addressing the priests, Bishop Ayuban stressed that the sacraments are not possessions of the clergy but gifts entrusted to them for the faithful.

“We are not the proprietors… the faithful have the right to receive them fully, reverently, and generously,” he said, emphasizing that no one should be deprived of the sacraments because of poverty.

The bishop also underscored the importance of prayer in priestly life, describing it as essential rather than optional.

“If we lose prayer, we lose our center. But if we remain rooted in prayer, we remain in Christ,” he said.

Reflecting on priesthood as a lifelong relationship with Christ, the bishop reminded the clergy that their vocation is ultimately an expression of love.

“The priesthood is… an officium amoris, an office of love,” he said.

He encouraged priests to be remembered not for their talents or achievements, but for their love for the people they serve.

“What matters most is that we love as Christ loves,” he added.

Bishop Ayuban also spoke about obedience as an offering of one’s freedom for the sake of mission, affirming the unity of the clergy with their bishop and with God.

Turning to the lay faithful, he expressed gratitude for their continued support and prayers for priests.

“Thank you for loving your priests… Please continue to pray for us, that we may remain faithful to the promises we renew today,” he said.

Ending his homily on a light yet heartfelt note, the bishop invited the faithful to express their love for their priests.

“Even without tarpaulins or flowers… say it from your heart: ‘We love you, Father!’” he said.

The Chrism Mass remains one of the most important liturgical celebrations in every diocese, highlighting both the unity of the Church and the shared mission of clergy and laity in continuing Christ’s work.