Namesake

Archbishop Angel N. Lagdameo and I share the same birthday and it was special to attend his Mass for Bukas Loob Sa Diyos (Open in Spirit to God) in Rahway, NJ this evening. My middle name Angela also comes from my grandma’s name, Angelina, and the bishop’s. The brother of my father’s late father, I haven’t seen the bishop since my childhood visit to the Philippines. I greeted him with a big hug and, after being instructed by my father, diligently executed “mano po” (taking the hand of an elder and touching the back of the elder’s hand to your forehead; a sign of respect). When I entered the Divine Mercy Parish, I was overwhelmed by the number of Filipinos in attendance. Bishop Lagdameo’s homily on Christ and perseverance was meaningful, and he talked about the “Christian moment” when we are challenged to have faith and push on. At 70 years old, he certainly continues to push on with his youthful charisma, Lagdameo smile, and generous spirit.