Youth members in Europe learn Filipino language basics

The seminar started with basic information about the Filipino language. The Philippines has eight major dialects: Bicolano Cebuano, Hiligaynon (Ilonggo), Ilocano, Kapampangan, Pangasinan, Tagalog, and Waray. The Filipino language is largely based on Tagalog.

Young brethren learned the days of the week, like Lunes (Monday), Martes (Tuesday), and so on. They also learned Filipino expressions in greeting people “Good morning!” (Magandang umaga!), “Good day!” (Magandang araw!), “Good afternoon!” (Magandang hapon!), and “Good evening!” (Magandang gabi!), among others.

Binhi members tried role-playing activities to practice and develop confidence in speaking and pronouncing Filipino words and phrases. Short quizzes also helped them remember what they studied.

“What especially motivated me to attend this activity was my desire to improve my Tagalog speaking skills. I’m not perfect in the language yet and I knew this activity would be a great help. Furthermore, I like to learn languages in general and it is much more fun with more people,” said Jenyflor Hemedez, Binhi president of the Local Congregation of Vienna Center, Austria.

“I think it is important to learn the Filipino language since it is the language used by the Messenger in these last days, Brother Felix Y. Manalo, to spread the words of God,” said Febe Ann Castro, a Binhi officer from the Local Congregation of Rjukan, Norway.

She added, “This kind of activity helps to strengthen the bond between the brethren even though we are far from each other and motivates us to remain active inside the Church.” ― With reports from INC News Section