I am not a very religious person but every Sunday, I always see to it that I'll be able to attend a mass no matter how busy I am. It is because I am used to it. If I'm not able to attend a Sunday mass, the feeling of guilt will haunt me for the rest of the week and it is really a different feeling if you miss a Sunday mass.
I always make sure that we go to church as a complete family, me, my wife and daughter. Bringing a 2 year old baby to church can be distracting. They tend to run around, play and everything but it is still acceptable because they don't know yet what we are doing. But last Sunday was different. We were not able to attend mass together because I need to go somewhere to attend to something. We finish our job at around 6 and the last mass in our parish is only until 5 so I attended mass in the Basilica del Sto. Niño at 7. I thought that my meeting with God will be solemn for I don't have to worry on anything because baby is not around. But I was wrong. I realized that there are many more distractions that time. I know I was at fault there because I did not fix my attention to the mass but I really find it hard to focus when people in front or at the back of you are talking. Or, you see someone wearing NSFW clothes. Or, you see sweethearts publicly displaying their affection to each other. I am not against lovers going to church. In fact, I'm in favor for this since it will strengthen their relationship because God is their center but, for Christ's sake, please respect everyone who tried to be modest in front of God. You really will loose focus, I tell you if you see this.
I am not convincing everyone to not go to church. As a matter of fact, I would love to convince someone to go to church because it is our obligation. But, please, if you go to church can you atleast dress modestly? You are having an audience with God so it is imperative that you dress appropriately. I did not say, wear a business attire but something presentable. Also, if you go to church, can you atleast refrain from talking to your friends? A mass lasts only for an hour. People are trying to have a solemn audience with God.
I am not trying to look very good here. I am a man and I make mistakes. I'm not perfect like all of you. But, I am making this rant in behalf of everyone who tries to have a solemn encounter with God.
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