The GUARDIANS Prayer

The GUARDIANS Prayer is a profound and meaningful invocation that holds deep significance for the members of the Philippine GUARDIANS Brotherhood, Inc. (PGBI) organization. It serves as a spiritual guiding light, encapsulating the core values, principles, and aspirations that define the organization’s mission to serve, protect, and uphold the dignity of the Filipino people.

Understanding the Meaning of the Prayer

The prayer begins with a heartfelt plea to God: “GOD Teach Us to be.” This opening emphasizes humility and recognition that the virtues and qualities essential to the GUARDIANS can only be truly cultivated through divine guidance. It sets the tone for a life committed to moral excellence and self-improvement.

Key Themes and Their Significance

1. Courage Without Overcoming by Fear

The prayer asks God to teach the GUARDIANS to be courageous and not overwhelmed by fear. In the context of their role, this signifies facing dangers, challenges, and uncertainties with bravery, yet maintaining moral integrity. It encourages members to act decisively and confidently, trusting in divine strength rather than succumbing to intimidation or despair.

2. Discipline with All, Regardless of Status

“Discipline with the lowly and high” underscores the importance of fairness, respect, and consistency in conduct. It reminds GUARDIANS to uphold discipline uniformly, demonstrating humility and justice whether dealing with the vulnerable or the powerful. This fosters trust and integrity within the community and reinforces the ideal that service is rooted in fairness.

3. Brotherhood Across Divides

“Brotherly among friends and enemies” highlights the value of unity, compassion, and brotherhood, transcending differences and conflicts. For GUARDIANS, this reflects a commitment to reconciliation, understanding, and peace—even toward those who may oppose or challenge them. It embodies the Filipino spirit of “bayanihan” or communal unity.

4. Righteousness in the Face of Creed

This line emphasizes standing firm on moral principles irrespective of personal beliefs or affiliations. It advocates for integrity and righteousness, guiding GUARDIANS to act ethically and uphold justice, even when faced with conflicting loyalties or creed.

Attributes the Prayer Calls For

a. Ingenious Protector of the Helpless

GUARDIANS are called to be resourceful and compassionate defenders of those in need, embodying ingenuity in protecting the vulnerable.

b. Dauntless Advocate of the Filipino

They are to be fearless champions of the Filipino people’s rights, dignity, and welfare, promoting national pride and unity.

c. Custodians of Liberty and Oneness

The prayer underscores loyalty to the ideals of freedom, liberty, and national unity, emphasizing that service is rooted in love for country.

d. Selfless Service

Expecting no thanks or special treatment, GUARDIANS are reminded to serve with humility, sincerity, and a sense of duty that transcends personal gain.

e. Loyalty and Temperance

Loyalty to the country and its values is paramount, coupled with a gentle, mild demeanor in times of anger or tears, demonstrating emotional strength tempered by compassion.

f. Nobility in Victory or Defeat

The prayer encourages humility and nobility regardless of outcomes, recognizing that true greatness lies in dignity and integrity.

g. Sincerity and Humility

Members are urged to serve without pretense or pride, embodying genuine commitment and humility.

The Final Supplication

“Grant us the wisdom to know the way, the light to show the way, the strength to go the way” is a humble plea for divine guidance. It acknowledges that the path of service is complex and challenging, requiring wisdom to discern right from wrong, light to illuminate the correct course, and strength to persevere.

Overall Significance

For the Philippine GUARDIANS Brotherhood, Inc. (PGBI) members, this prayer encapsulates their vow to uphold justice, integrity, and patriotism. It is more than words; it is a spiritual blueprint inspiring them to be courageous, disciplined, compassionate, and noble in their duties. The prayer serves as a constant reminder that their strength and resolve ultimately come from divine guidance, empowering them to serve their country and fellow Filipinos with humility, sincerity, and unwavering faith. “In essence”, the GUARDIANS Prayer is a sacred invocation that reinforces the organization’s commitment to moral excellence and national service, fostering a sense of unity, purpose, and divine blessing for all members dedicated to safeguarding the Filipino spirit. – GSM