Pagiging Pag-asa: A Lenten Recollection for BuCor Employees

On April 11, 2025, the Philippine Jesuit Prison Service (PJPS), in partnership with GMA Network, held a meaningful and soul-stirring event at the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) National Headquarters. Designed as a spiritual pause during the Lenten season, the event featured a special screening of the GMA Drama Special Green Bones followed by a Lenten Recollection entitled “Pagiging Pag-asa.” Held at the New Conference Room of the BuCor-NHQ, the morning began with the much-anticipated screening of Green Bones — a powerful and emotionally charged story that explores the intricate layers of justice, forgiveness, and personal transformation. For BuCor employees who walk daily within the corridors of incarceration, the film’s themes struck a personal chord. It served as a mirror, reflecting the unheard stories of those behind bars and the quiet, courageous acts of redemption that often remain unseen. The film ignited silent reflection among the audience, opening hearts to deeper questions about the nature of justice, the potential for healing, and the mission of those called to serve in our nation’s correctional system. Immediately following the screening, a sacred silence settled into the room as the community entered into the Lenten Recollection. Facilitated by Fr. Erwin “Bok” Arandia, SJ, the recollection carried the theme “Pagiging Pag-asa” — Becoming Hope. Fr. Bok’s message invited everyone to pause and realign with their inner purpose, to find strength in their humanity, and to see themselves not just as workers in a system, but as bearers of compassion, understanding, and light. Through scripture, personal reflection, and shared silence, the participants were reminded that in their daily labor — often unseen and unacknowledged — they too become signs of hope for the people they encounter. For many, it was more than just a break from routine. It became a sacred space to reconnect with the spiritual dimension of their work and their own Lenten journey. PJPS extends its heartfelt gratitude to GMA Network for graciously allowing the screening of Green Bones within the prison community. As we journey through Lent, may we all be reminded that to serve is to love, and to love is to bring hope. Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam. #PJPS #BuCor #LentenRecollection #GreenBones