2022 BIRTHING HEAVEN's CRUMBS
Heaven's Crumbs Story
For the past ten years since I came to America, whenever I return to the Philippines to visit my family, I organize a little charity event for children and adults.
"Lord, even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master's table"
Mt. 15: 21-28
I am able to make this event possible from two sources: first, from my collected Christmas gifts (cash and in kind), and second, from "pa-baon" (a Filipino word meaning provisions of food or money given by friends to someone making a trip).
Pasalubong
Travelers pass on the kindness by bringing "pasalubong," a gift from their destination, to their families and friends back home. Both “baon” and “pasalubong” are very much a part of Filipino culture of giving.
"I came to realize that even the smallest gifts
when put together may become a blessing for many"
Following this rhythm of giving, the gifts I have received are the same gifts I share to those who are in need. I came to realize that even the smallest gifts when put together can become a blessing for many. Since I began this annual project with a steady stream of supporters and sponsors, I have decided to call this effort "Heaven's Crumbs".
Story of the Canaanite Woman
In this Gospel story, a Canaanite woman approaches Jesus to beg for mercy on behalf of her sick daughter.
“I have witnessed the miracle of turning these crumbs into blessings. No matter how small they are, they are big blessings, for they are crumbs from heaven”.
To test her faith; Jesus ignores her and says to her, "It is not fair to take the children's food and throw it to the dogs". She responds, "Lord, even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master's table". Her response impressed Jesus, and her daughter is healed. She begs, believing that even the tiniest crumb of Jesus' power could make a difference in her daughter's failing health.
Do not Throw Away your Crumbs
Many people who are blessed with luxuries throw their crumbs in the garbage, not realizing that the excess of their wealth and comfort can become a tremendous blessing when collected and gathered for people in need. Even crumbs can be a blessing too. For the past ten years, I have been collecting the tokens of people’s generosity so that when I go home, I can give them as "pasalubong" to my people who are in need. Enjoy and be inspired! May God bless you and keep you always!
Jollibee Meal Treat for Children
100 packed lunches for the children....with crispy chicken, and spaghetti. About 100 children enjoyed their meal and a lot of children's smiles brightened that day. One of the children came up to me before he left and said "pader, salamat po. Balik po kayo ulit". (Father, thank you and please come back again). At the end of their meal... of course there was the local ice cream for dessert for all to enjoy... and there was catechism too.
Gifts for Seniors
On this special day of giving, the hearts of Heaven's Crumbs overflowed with love and compassion as we reached out to our beloved senior citizens. We distributed essential groceries and bags of rice, ensuring they had sustenance and joy during these challenging times. Witnessing the smiles on their faces and the gratitude in their eyes brought warmth to our souls. Another 100 bags of rice, accompanied by heartfelt goodies, were also shared with adults, many of whom were seniors in need of support. Together, we created a day of nourishment, comfort, and care, spreading blessings that touched the lives of those we cherish dearly.
Thanksgiving & Praise to God
The central message of it all ... is Jesus in the Eucharist who is both the gift and the giver for He gives His very self to be broken so He can be shared to many. Feeding is not only for the body but also the spirit with peace and joy that come only from Jesus....