(CACTUS News | New Manila, Quezon City, Feb 8, 2026). The original Latin root of the English word blessing is the verb benedicere (from bene, meaning “well,” and dicere, meaning “to speak”), which literally means “to speak well of” or “to wish well.” From the same root come words such as beatification and beautiful, as well as the name Beatriz, all of which carry the idea of blessedness. In the Gospel, we encounter the famous Beatitudes. We may describe them as beautiful attitudes: even amid suffering, hardship, and misfortune, Christians are called to persevere with confidence in Christ. The Beatitudes remind us that blessedness is not the absence of trials but the presence of God in the midst of them. In some Bible translations, the word blessed is rendered as “happy” or “fortunate.” To be blessed, therefore, is to receive a happiness and good fortune that come from God. Among Filipinos, blessings hold a special place in our culture and faith. We ask God's blessing upon our homes, vehicles, tombs, examination pencils, and even ourselves on birthdays and anniversaries. Through these blessings, we express our belief that God's grace accompanies us and provides both material and spiritual gifts. Recently, the newly established Provincial House of the Order of Discalced Carmelites was blessed by Bishop Elias Ayuban. Ironically, one might think that the house of governance, where the Provincial Superior resides, would have been the first community to be established. History tells us otherwise. As the Province grew, other communities were founded first before the Provincial House finally came into being. The community is composed of Fr. Joey Mabborang, OCD (Provincial Superior), Fr. Danilo Lim, OCD (Community Superior), and the members Fr. Chito Reyes, OCD, Fr. Bing Madelo, OCD, Fr. Junjun Agruda III, OCD, Fr. Nathaniel Maravilloso, OCD, Fr. Haluendo Amit, OCD, and Fr. Dominic Pham Dinh Phu, OCD. The community is blessed with a wealth of experience, as most of its members have served in various administrative and leadership roles. Because this is an entirely new foundation, they have had to begin almost from scratch in terms of financial and material resources. Yet despite these challenges, blessings have come from many places. Benefactors, friends, and family members have generously shared their support. Furniture, household items, kitchenware, vehicles, and especially financial assistance continue to arrive. Truly, God's blessings are overflowing. May all those who share their blessings be blessed in return. May we become a blessing to one another as well.