My Pope Philippines Magazine - May 2019

In this issue

They say that April showers bring May flowers, and even if we’re short on water these days, we can still find so many reasons to keep on blooming—especially in this issue, which is just bursting with happy thoughts and bright ideas. First off, we can find inspiration in Mang Nanie Guanlao, whose 24/7 library passion project has brought the joy of reading to so many bookworms, and the team of college students behind the Bathala Rocket Stove, an invention that has changed the lives of the Dumagat tribe. If you’re still in need of a pick-me-up, just turn to page 44, where our easy tips will help you nurture a fertile mindset that’s so vital for flourishing in all aspects of life. And of course, the merry month of May would not be complete without a tribute to mothers everywhere—as well as a very special mother to us all, Mama Mary! In fact, our dear Pope Francis even has a very special devotion to Our Lady (page 20) and encourages us all to seek her intercession. And because motherhood is truly an honourable calling, we’ve made it a point to honour selfless mothers everywhere with a gift guide full of super-thoughtful presents any mom would love (page 36). To tug on your heartstrings even more, we also give you an intimate glimpse into the mother-child relationships of personalities like Zsa Zsa Padilla and Karylle (page 32). Last but not the least, we bring you not one, but two patron saints of motherhood: St. Monica, whose steadfast faith was instrumental in the conversion of her son, St. Augustine, and St. Gianna Beretta Molla, who is considered as a modern-day, working mom saint. For indeed, with the ups and downs of life, it never hurts to have love, guidance, and support from above.