HASHTAGS FOR SEEKERS
A book of homilies by Msgr. Harold Anthony Parilla. Photo credits Amazon and the writer.
SELF-HELP
5/2/20262 min read
For the modern Catholic, sometimes the Sunday readings can feel distant, locked in ancient language and tradition. Msgr. Harold Parilla’s Hashtags for Seekers acts as a bridge, making the Word of God feel immediate and personal. As someone who has read it during a low point, I found it to be a refreshing and insightful guide that draws you closer to the Lord’s boundless love . The genius of the book lies in its ability to digest profound theological concepts into practical, bite-sized wisdom that speaks directly to the struggles of daily life.
What resonates most is how it validates the questions and longings we often keep to ourselves. As Cardinal Tagle notes in the foreword, Msgr. Parilla "unpacks the vitality of the Word of God in dialogue with some of our most real yet unrecognized questions" . For today’s believer, who is often overwhelmed by noise and negativity, the book offers a pathway to healing and rebuilding self-confidence. It’s a reminder that the Gospel isn’t a set of intrusive rules, but an attractive, living message meant for our specific moment—a "hashtag" meant just for us .
A Non-Catholic Perspective: Universal Wisdom in Contemporary Language
From an outside perspective, Hashtags for Seekers is less about denominational doctrine and more about a shared human journey toward meaning and happiness. The title itself suggests a contemporary approach to timeless questions, and the book delivers on that promise. It’s essentially a collection of reflections that use biblical narratives as a springboard to discuss universal themes like resilience, decision-making, and finding lasting contentment .
The most relevant lesson for any believer today—regardless of faith tradition—is the emphasis on making good decisions and finding happiness in ways that are both meaningful and lasting . The book doesn’t preach; it guides. It treats the reader as a genuine "seeker," offering stories and practical suggestions that feel like a conversation with a wise friend. For a non-Catholic, it provides a beautiful window into how faith can be a source of comfort and practical guidance, illustrating that the core principles of love, hope, and renewal are universal and accessible to anyone on a spiritual journey .