Church: Selfless love needed, not just romantic love

MANILA, Philippines — Officials of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) reminded the faithful to focus not only on “romantic love” but also on “selfless love,” especially now that a lot of Filipinos are struggling because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Fr. Jerome Secillano, CBCP public affairs committee executive director, said the best way to celebrate Valentine’s Day is to “express the love that brings out the best in everyone,” aside from the usual dating and other romantic expressions of love.

“This Valentine’s Day, let’s not only focus on romantic love. What everyone needs right now in this time of crisis is a love that brings out the best in each one, a love expressed in service and charity, in forgiveness and mercy. It is a selfless love that focuses on promoting the interest of all,” he said.

Manila apostolic administrator Bishop Broderick Pabillo echoed Secillano’s sentiments as he urged the faithful to spread the kind of love that cares for others, especially those who are in need.

“Love is giving, not getting. Do not use people for oneself,” he said.

Pabillo also urged the faithful to know the difference between “love” and “lust” as he emphasized that “there is self-control in real love,” especially now that a lot of the younger generation misinterpret lust for love.

Asked how he described Valentine’s Day in the time of COVID-19 pandemic, Pabillo said true love overcomes difficulties as it gives one the courage to push on in spite of the difficulties.

For Quiapo Church parochial vicar Fr. Douglas Badong, Valentine’s Day should be celebrated by spreading love and not hate and that “lovers must express their love and not lust.”