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TURNOVER OF CARMELITE PARISHES IN AGUSAN

Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur. On April 5, 2005, the Parish of St. Vincent

Ferrer in Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur was officially turned over to the Diocese

of Butuan during the fiesta mass. The Most Rev. Juan de Dios Pueblos, D.D. presided at

the eucharistic celebration and turn- over ceremony. After the homily, Fr. Artemio

Jusayan, O.Carm., the Commissary General, turned over the symbolic "key of

responsibility" to the priest-representative of the Diocese, witnessed by five priests of the

Diocese and a Pauline priest who co-presided in the celebration. The parishioners of

Patin-ay and from the neighboring parishes of the Carmelites also witnessed the turn-

over. The bishop expressed his gratitude to the Carmelites who were very much

involved in building of the Church of the Poor in the Diocese. The Bishop

acknowledged Fr. Dick Russo Endriga, O.Carm., the last Carmelite Parish Priest who

served the parish for some years and prepared the people for the turnover. Fr. Endriga in

a soft voice, expressed his gratefulness to his parishioners who journeyed with him in

good and in bad times. For the people of Patin-ay under Fr. Endriga’s care for a number

of years, the Carmelites will never be forgotten. This big event coincided with the

celebration of the parochial feast.

Bahbah, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur. Three days after the turnover of St. Vincent

Ferrer Parish, it was the turn of the Parish of St. Michael, the Archangel in Bahbah,

Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur. It was on April 8, 2005 that the parish was turned over to

the Most Rev. Juan de dios Pueblos, DD, the Bishop of the Diocese of Butuan. The
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same turnover rite was enacted as in Patin-ay, with a turnover of the "symbolic key of

responsibility" after the homily. The concelebrated mass was joined by the clergy of the

Diocese and other missionaries (SVD and MSC). It was a joint occasion since it was the

opening of the three-day BCC Congress. After the mass, Plaques of Recognition were

awarded to the Carmelites for their dedicated and exemplary service rendered by the

Order for forty and twenty nine years in Agusan del Sur and in Prosperidad respectively.

Bro. Arie Kuil, O.Carm was also cited for his untiring assistance in the construction of

the parish church of St. Michael the Archangel by the officers of the Parish Pastoral

Council. Heartfelt thanks and goodbyes were expressed by the Parishioners, the Diocese

and from the Order. What a great opportunity for the Order to become part of the history

of Prosperidad. . As the seeds have been sown in that soil, may they continue to blossom

like the flowers on Mt. Carmel.

Nationwide Walk for a Cause

May 7, 2005

The Carmelites and Friends of Carmel participated in the “Walk for a Cause”, 40 KM

on Saturday, May 7, 2005. The sponsoring group is in Venhuisen, The Netherlands. In

the Philippines, this annual tradition of Walk for a Cause is spearheaded by the Order of

Carmelites in support of the Formation program at all levels.

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Escalante Carmel. The friars and associates community led this year’s Walk for a

Cause for the support of the Carmelite Formation Program There were 108 participants

in the 8 kilometer walk.

Cebu Carmel. On May 7, 2005, the Cebu friars, lay Carmelite community, Carmel

youth, the pre-postulants, friends and neighbors joined the “Walk for a “Cause”. Twenty

five (25) people walked a total of 4 kilometers.

Agusan Carmel. The participants were members of our BCCs from our two parishes in

Agusan del Sur: Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in San Francisco and Our Lady of Rosary

Parish in Rosario, along with the faculty and staff Mount Carmel College, Carmel

Youth, Third Order Carmelites, parish youth and friends from Patin-ay and Prosperidad.

The total number of those who participated was two hundred and fifty (253). This was a

walk to remember for the participants for they gave support to the Carmelite Formation

Program and vowed to participate again in the next walk.

Cagayan de Oro. About 100 participants joined this years’ walk for a cause 2005. The

participants walked around P.N. Roa Sundvision and adjacent subdivisions, a total of

around 6 kilometers. They carried placards with slogans like: Peace not War, No to

EVAT, No to Drugs. Cristina and Marklim van Vugt organized this walk for a cause

2005 in Cagayan de Oro.

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Manila Carmel. Friars, student friars, co-workers, the Carmelites of Our Lady, the

novices, friends and supporters of YCPF took an early morning walk to Quezon

Memorial Circle. Altogether, the successful walk for a cause of 2005 in Manila alone

was participated in by 55 individuals This walk was organized in association with

friends in the Netherlands who annually observes this international walk. Funds from

this walk will go to aid the formation program.

Editorial Staff

Christian Buenafe

Sirenio Jaranilla

Ed Gerlock

Jofti Villena

Normie M. Lacanilao

Max Zapanta

Peter Kramer

Sally Castro

Sarah Bisuña

Artemio Jusayan
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Dick Russo Endriga

Rhen Caculitan

Digoy Bautista, Je.,

Gerald Flor Gutierrez

Junnel Ryan Denolo

Lorna van Vugt

Edgar Cayanan

Bernard Roosendaal

Christopher Exala

LEARNING AND UNLEARNING FOR INTEGRAL DEVELOPMENT

(A Look To Our Experiences In Austria )

By Bros. Rhen Caculitan and Rodrigo Bautista, O.Carm., both 4th year Theology

students at Inter-Congregational Theological, who joined Sandiwaan 2005)

“The journey must be interesting!” This was the very thought that came to our

minds when we had learned that we were chosen to be part of the exchange program. It

started when one of the members of our community thought that Austria was Australia!

It’s not because we don’t have a sense of geography, but that we heard very little about

Austria. We did hear a lot about the Vienna Boys Choir; the music of Amadeus Wolfgang

Mozart, of Johannes Bach, yet never heard of Austria! Well, these became the trivia as

we set forth on our journey on the day when our beloved Pope John Paul II died.
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Together with other three students (2 Franciscans and 1 Redemptorist), Rhen and I

prepared to foster greater solidarity with the so-called first world country of Austria.

Sandiwaan: An Exchange Program. Sandiwaan is literally translated as

“oneness in spirit” or “solidarity.” The concept is an exchange of experiences and ideas

through an inter-contextual theological dialogue by experiencing the contrast between our

life coming from the third-world and their life belonging to the first-world. That is what

Sandiwaan is all about! The idea sounds very simple, but, at the end of the program, we

found ourselves hoping to foster greater solidarity in the sense of sharing a common

aspiration that development would be integral, for both the Filipinos and Austrians. In

whatever we do, little efforts must be made so that the possibility of an international

solidarity might become more and more possible. The program was participated in by the

students of Inter-Congregational Theological Center (ICTC) in Manila, Philippines and

the Faculty of Theology of the University of Vienna, Austria. The exchange program was

for one month.

And the saga was about to begin….

Crossing the Border. We may just give traditional answers whenever someone asks us

how’s the experience in Europe. It’s traditional in the sense that it became a common

reply to such questions. It’s traditional in the sense that the answer ended a lot of

laughing. It bears to be called traditional, because it has truth, sense. For once in this life

we crossed the border when we were in Europe.

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The moment the plane (Lufthansa Airlines) took to the air it was the start of a 13

hour travel to Frankfurt, Germany and 1-hour travel to Vienna, Austria, our very

destination. Hours before the plane was to take off, there were scenes inside the airport.

Much had to be done, be supported, and discussed. But these were normal procedures,

some standard operating procedures in an international airport.

We are not sure if we shared the same feelings of excitement with other people on

that plane, or with our companions in the exchange program. However, it was just a

question, a question that we didn’t mind. For we knew that we had many reasons to feel

excited. It’s not only because this would be our first time to be out of the country, but that

it would also be our first time to be in Europe. We mean we would prefer going to

Europe than to America. (But we would bargain Europe for Israel. A joke!). It is not

because we were lucky to be chosen as representatives of our school but the meaning of

opportunity which knocks only once. Though we say that many are chosen but few are

called, the chance to be part of the elect is rare. We know we don’t need to be logical to

give the reason for our excitement. In the same way that one has to be hopeful amidst

despair, one has to be happy amidst suffering. What we mean is that there are plenty of

things that bring various reactions to situations, but at the end of the day the experience

brings one fulfillment and happiness.

Learning and Unlearning. The month long stay in Austria gave us a concrete picture

of our differences in so many ways: the gap between the rich and poor countries, unique

culture, amazing language, ways and costs of living, and much more. There was an

overwhelming reaction to the richness of their country and the kind of life which is
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abundant which many are experiencing and enjoying. The experience was also a great

opportunity of widening one’s horizon in seeing things vis-à-vis others’ context and

viewpoints. The exposure schedules made it possible to know and learn about the

situation of other people, points of view and influence; still nothing can compete with

concrete experience.

After seeing things in different ways, our experiences in Austria sharpened a

certain vision. It is vision which believes that all people around the world deserve a

quality and dignified life. A vision which believes in integral development. It is a vision

that advances aspirations for an integral development by making critical choices. It is an

optic that chooses to face the challenges of the times; exploitation, oppression, poverty,

deprivation brought about by globalization. And if the developed-countries realize how

much this globalization has damaged their poor neighboring countries, they would also

have a critical choice!

We are not alone! For there is a great possibility of walking together in fostering

greater solidarity among us. Our differences should be viewed as challenges for us to

work together. Our similarities can be the catalyst in opting to work hand in hand. And

the living remembrance of the people’s suffering may help us in overcoming difficulties

along the way! A month in Austria was both a learning and unlearning process in facing

the realities and challenges in life. It brings hope in one’s journey as we seek the face of

the living God in the midst of the people. It gives us courage and strength to go forward

on our journey. Our stay didn’t close the learning process, the opportunity of taking part

in the transformation of our society. Rather, it becomes a new beginning towards a

fruitful venture on what ought to be for every Filipino.

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We wish to thank all the people who became part of our one-month stay in

Austria. For making the experience wise and fruitful. We owe you a lot! And thanks for

that. We would like also to express our gratitude to the warm welcome and hospitality

of the Dutch province for making our stay meaningful and enriching. To Fr. Tjeu

Timmermans for his invitation, to Bro. Arie Kuil for accompaniment, to Frs. Marlon

Lacal and Rico Ponce, and to the members of various communities. Thank You Once

Again! Mabuhay!

Archival Management Workshop

From June 6th to June 9th, 2005, Bros. Arnulfo Alindayu, O.Carm., Titus Brandsma

Program Coordinator; Sr. Lurian Vincent Comaling, Carm.O.L.. Secretary of the Center

for Spirituality – Manila and Mrs. Normita M. Lacanilao from the Office of the General

Commissariat Secretariat attended the seminar-workshop on “Basic Course on Archival

Management for Catholic Educational Institutions, Formation Houses and Seminaries” at

Caleruega Retreat House in Nasugbu, Batangas.

About fifty one participants, composed of priests, nuns, archivist, librarians , curators,

school principals, diocesan chancery staff from the different dioceses and religious

congregations joined this four day seminar-workshop.

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Topics discussed were Basic Archiving, Archives Principles and Practices, Importance of

Archives in Catholic Educational Institutions and conserving films, photographs and

CD’s among others.

Balitaan

Cebu Carmel Community of San Alberto. On April 28, 2005, some lay Carmelites,

Carmel Youth and friends went to Escalante and bade goodbye to Frs. Toon Mol and

Emmanuel Vallega, both friars transferred to Escalante, Negros Occidental. It was a

mixture of joyful and sad moments for all of us. Nevertheless, we hope that Frs. Mol

and Vallega will continue their pastoral ministry in their new setting of Escalante

Carmel.

The following day, the whole group proceeded to Mambukal Hot Spring Resort in

Murcia, Negros Occidental. The Cebu visitors joined the welcome celebration for Frs.

Mol and Vallega spearheaded by the community and the parish of Escalante. It was a

very warm gesture of welcome for the two brothers. The Cebu entourage went home to

Talamban, Cebu City on May 1, 2005.

San Alberto Formation Center. May 16, 2005 saw the arrival of our college

seminarians: seventeen (17) first year students, two (2) transferees from other

congregations were also accepted to our College formation program. Twelve of them

are from Mindanao (Agusan del Sur, Agusan del Norte, ComVal Province, Davao and
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Surigao del Sur provinces); one from Bohol and Negros provinces; and five (5) from

Cebu province. All of the newcomers finished the two-week seminary orientation

which was concluded by a three-day retreat facilitated by Fr. Max Zapanta, O.Carm.

The second year, third year and fourth year seminarians likewise made their retreat with

Fr. Perfecto Adeva, Jr., O.Carm. in Tabuelan, Cebu.

Towards the end of May 2005, Frs. Perfecto Adeva and Dick Russo arrived in Cebu as

the newest members of the community with the first community meeting being held on

June 2, 2005. Fr. Dick Russo Endriga was elected Prior of the community. On June 14,

Bro. Edilberto dela Peña, a newly professed member of the Order joined the formation

community in Cebu.

This school-year 2005- 2006, the total number of college seminarians is forty seven (47).

17 first year, 17 second year, 9 third year and 4 fourth year. The seminarians undergo

their Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy at the Rogationist College Seminary.

At present, the seminary is undergoing minor repairs and repainting of the building.

Escalante Carmel. The summer pastoral immersion led by the O.Carm. Associates was

launched in the first week of April 2005. It lasted to the middle of May focusing on

the importance of immersion and mission in some Basic Christian Communities of Our

Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish in Escalante City. It was a fruitful and challenging effort for
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the Associates, parish workers, BCC leaders and parish pastors. There will still be a

deeper evaluation of the program for the deepening of experiences and future plans.

In early May, Frs. Emmanuel Vallega and Toon Mol transferred to Escalante from

Cebu. On May 9, Fr. Martin Pierik arrived from Manila and stayed until June 2 for his

summer vacation at the same time helping out with some masses for BCC fiestas. On

May 15, Fr. Pieirk celebrated his 61st birthday in Escalante with the members of the

Carmelite Family and few close friends.

From May 24 to 30, a week long Escalante City Fiesta was held with the theme:

“Ensuring the brightest future of the City by doing the best today”. This fiesta is a

combination of a traditional festival of the old town tagged as “manlanbus” (strike with a

club to catch fish in the sea) and the old devotion to the Holy Cross. The procession and

enthronement of the Our Lady of Mt. Carmel was also one of the highlights during the

opening day.

On the morning of May 30, a concelebrated mass was celebrated with Bishop Jose

Advincula of the Diocese of San Carlos as the main presider. In the afternoon of the

same day, President Gloria Macapagal- Arroyo paid a visit to our parish. She prayed in

the church and briefly chatted with the Carmelites. The visit was not well disseminated

for it was a private visit.

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In the first week of June, Fr. Reynold Caigoy attended the annual Convention of Mission

Directors of the Philippines in Baguio City as a representative of the Diocese of San

Carlos. Fr. Paul Medina, O.Carm., and Ms. Rizalina Ombi-on, aO.Carm., attended the

Regional Assembly of Rural Missionaries in the Philippines in Cebu City. In the same

week, Fr. Christopher Exala, O. Carm., also had meeting with the Formation

Commission also in Cebu City.

The parish organized a contextualized reflection held before every mass last Sunday,

June 12. Symbolic lighting of candles before the cross and intentions were pasted on it.

It was an act of solidarity with the Filipino people’s calling for vigilance and critical

understanding of the present issues confronting our society today.

Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish celebrated its 10th BCC Congress on June 18, 2005.

The theme for this year’s congress is “Ang GKK diha sa iyang Padayon nga Paglawig sa

pang-angkon sa Kinatibuk-ang Kalingkawasan Taliwala sa nagkalain-laing dagway sa

kahimtang,” It was a day of remembering, thanksgiving and challenge The main

activities during this celebration were the Election of officers of the Parish Pastoral

Council, discussions on the Constitution and By Laws, sharing and discussions on major

programs (WESTOY) and fellowship.

On July 24 of this year the Carmelite Family Negros gathering will be held in

Dumaguete City.
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Manila Carmel Community of St. Teresa of Avila.

Ongoing Formation. Frs. Sirenio Jaranilla, Christian Buenafe, Rico Sabanal and

Dionisio Ramos attended the four day course on the Rubrics in Liturgy held at San Beda

College under the supervision of the Benedictine Monks of Our Lady of Monserratt

Abbey, Paul VI Institute of Liturgy and the Graduate School of Liturgy of San Beda

College last April 12-15.

Friars’ Summer Assistance. For the whole month of May, Fr. Martin Pierik travelled

and assisted in the pastoral needs of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish in Escalante, Negros

Occidental. Fr. Christian Buenafe also helped facilitate in the evaluation and planning

of Our Lady of Rosary Parish in Rosario, Agusan del Sur last April 26 to 29 in

Buenavista, Agusan del Norte. The meeting was primarily conducted by the Parish

Pastoral Council officers and pastoral workers.

Titus Brandsma Lectures. Last May 6, 2005, Frs. Sirenio Jaranilla, Christian Buenafe

and Martin Pierik presented a talk to the Student Friars of O.Carm. and OCD on the

Life, Works and Mysticism of Titus Brandsma. Fr. Jaranilla offered some Historical

Sketches on the life of Titus using the slides on his life. Fr. Buenafe elaborated deeply on

the Works of Titus Brandsma, his special focus being the Lectures given by Titus

Brandsma. Fr. Pierik gave a scholarly talk on the Mysticism of Titus emphasizing the
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importance of his writings and interpreations. Likewise, a Bibliography on Titus’ work

was also presented.

Welcome Home. Fr. Pedro Manilag arrived last May 17 from the United States of

America. He finished his Graduate Certificate Course in Carmelite Studies from

Washington Theological Union in Washington D.C and is very thankful to the

Whitefriars Hall community and to the PCM province. Likewise, Fr. Esmeraldo

Reforeal arrived from Melbourne, Australia last June 22, 2005.

Community Chapter. The first meeting of the newly constituted community was held

on June 3, 2005. Eleven friars met and held their triennial election. The result of the

elections are: Fr. Martin Pierik, Prior and Fr. Sirenio Jaranilla, Subprior. Fr. Aristarco

Escobal, Bursar; Fr. Bernard Roosendaal, Chronicler and Fr. Gilbert Sabado, Liturgist.

Student Friary Community of St. Elias.

Year-End Retreat. The classes at the Inter-Congregational Theological Center (ICTC)

formally ended on March 17, 2005, while the Institute for Religious Studies (IFRS) on

March 18, 2005.

All Student Friars went to Baguio City last March 27 to 31 for their year-end retreat held

at the Little Flower Retreat Center. Fr. Martin Pierik, O.Carm guided and facilitated the

activities and processes throughout the retreat period. There was solemnity and silence in
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everyone’s heart throughout the retreat. It was an opportunity for the students to discern

what to do during summer and in preparation for their renewal of vows. A symbolic

liturgy and eucharistic celebration culminated the retreat. A community tour around

Baguio after the retreat was part of the ongoing bonding and fun towards community

building.

Friary Hosted Luzon Association of Religious Brothers Meet. The Carmelite

student-friars hosted a meeting of the Luzon Association of Religious Brothers (LARB)

last April 16 at the Titus Brandsma Center in preparation for the National Convention of

Religious Brothers in the Philippines in October this year. Bros. Arnold Alindayu and

Jerry Cañas., O.Carm., represented the Carmelite Brothers. The regional officers of

LARB are brothers from the different congregations: Marists, La Salle, Augustinian

Recollect, Capuchin, among others.

Bro. Benedicto Zaragoza, O.Carm.: Victim of Police Brutality. On April 7, 2005,

church people from various churches and denominations and progressive organizations

peacefully gathered infront of Our Lady of Remedies Parish Church in Malate, City Of

Manila. The group condemned the series of killings of activist leaders, journalists, and

Church people. Then, the prayerful assembly was violently dispersed by the Western

Police District (WPD). Carmelite Brothers Benedicto Zaragoza, Joel Comaling and Junel

Ryan Denolo, O.Carm were among those dispersed. Bro. Zaragoza sustained a cut on

his forehead and some bruises. The irony is, the police filed a case against Bro. Zaragoza

and others. A concerted effort with the Karapatan and the Promotion of Church People’s
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Response (PCPR) also filed charges and submitted to the Prosecutor’s office at Manila

City Hall. The community awaits the resolution from the Fiscal’s Office.

Summer Skills Development. Bro. Allan Hagoriles studied Webpage Designing and

Programing course at the AMA Computer Learning Center; Bros. Jerry Cañas, Realino

Hermo, Gerald Flor Gutierrez, Benedicto Zaragoza underwent an intensive live-in

seminar on Retreat and Recollection Facilitation at the Religious of the Virgin Mary

Summer Institute; Bro. Junel Ryan Denolo took up Piano Lessons at the University of

Sto. Tomas Conservatory of Music and attended a 5- day seminar Media Appreciation at

the Cultural Center of the Philippines. Bro. Domingo Beato, Jr. went home for family

integration in Catanduanes, Bicol. Bro. Gerald Flor Gutierrez studied Basic Photography.

In April, the student friars also took a refresher course in English language and

Accounting for Non- Accountants. Bro. Philip Rabosa finished his Clinical Pastoral

Education program at St. Lukes Medical Center on June 11, 2005.

New School Year Opens. The newly simple professed friars –Bros. Jonathan Serofia,

Joel Comaling , Rommel Esmeria attended a three-day orientation last June 7-9, 2005 at

the Inter-Congregational Theological Center. Bro. Joel Comaling joined the batch of the

incoming first year in ICTC for this school year. Classes for higher years had also

started.
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The ICTC has officially opened the new school year 2005- 2006 with a general assembly

and visioning last June 13, 2005. Regular classes followed the day after. Bros. Jerry

Cañas and Philip Rabosa registered at the Institute of Formation and Religious Studies

(IFRS); Bro. Arnold Alindayu at the University of Sto. Tomas (UST).

Welcome Home Brothers! Bros. Rodrigo Bautista, Jr. and Rhen Caculitan were back

from their European tour and arrived last May 21, 2005 from the Netherlands. They are

part of a group of five ICTC students who were selected to participated in the

SANDIWAAN Student Exchange Program, an exchange program between ICTC and the

Institute of Moral Theology and Ethics of the University of Vienna. They integrated

themselves into Austrian culture and church and had many new experiences and

discoveries, reflections and realizations from the month long stay in Austria that

strengthened their resolve for the Church of the Poor in the Philippines.

The two also had an opportunity to visit the Dutch Carmelite Province in the different

communities. Both had the chance to see, meet, and talk to our Dutch sisters and

brothers, and likewise experience Dutch culture and hospitality.

Spring of Carmel Community.

The novitiate community has a new hut in the middle of their garden. It is a good place

for small group sharing and consultation and/or for individual reflection. It was blessed
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on June 11, 2005 after the ceremony of acceptance of the new novices who will start their

canonical year of novitiate formation.

Fr. Peter Kramer, O.Carm., went with some of his relatives to Lourdes in France. He

was part a National Pilgrimage held from May 10-17, 2005 along with 1,600

participants. Among them were many volunteers, who took care of the sick or

handicapped pilgrims, accommodating them as nurses, attendants and especially helping

them in moving their wheel-chairs in order that all might participate in the various

celebrations.

June 11, 2005 was the official acceptance day for the new novices: Edgar Cayanan

(Montalban, Rizal), Baltazar Ronato (Quezon City), Froilan Verendia (Caloocan City),

Fernando Lopez (Tondo, Manila), Jess Alesna (San Francisco, Agusan del Sur), Clyde

Salitero (Tubigon, Bohol), Gerard Mercado (Toledo City, Cebu) Gilbert Billena

(Balingoan, Misamis Oriental) and Michael Condes (Kalookan City). The ceremony

was attended by the friars from the Teresa of Avila community. The Commissary

General, Fr. Artemio Jusayan, O.Carm., presided and accepted the nine novices for

the canonical year of their novitiate formation program.

Edgar Cayanan, O.Carm.is Chair of Exodus Batch 18th. Exodus begins! The 18th

batch of Exodus (Exchange of Dreams and ideas for Unifed Formation) have taken their

first step as novice representatives and formators from different participating orders and

Congregations have gathered for their initial meeting and planning activities at the
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Congregation of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary (SSCC) House in Scout Limbaga,

Quezon City. Bro. Edgar Cayanana, nO.Carm., was elected Chairperson for this year’s

Exodus Batch XVIII. Participating congregations in the Exodus program are the

Redemptorists, Montfort Missionaries, Dominicans Sisters of Our Lady pf Remedies,

Missionaries of the Sacred Heart, Daughters of St. Anne, Daughters of Wisdom, the

Hearts of Jesus and Mary and others. There are 48 novices who are expected to join in

this year’s batch.

A two-day orientation and getting to know activites were planned and set on June 30 and

July 1, 2005 at the Titus Brandsma Center. To the EXODUS Batch 18th, happy

journeying.

Profession of Vows.

On June 4, 2005, the Order of Carmelites in the Philippines was once again blessed when

four novices made their simple profession of vows, they are: Brothers Edilberto dela

Pena, Jaworski Linag, Jonathan Serofia, and Rommel Esmeria.

Bro. Alaindelon Balasabas, O. Carm., the lively and spirited friar pronounced his solemn

profession of vows to live as a Carmelite for the rest of his entire life.

Moreover, thirteen (13) student friars renewed their vows for another year; they are

Brothers Edwin Magbago, Benedicto Zaragoza, Arnold Alindayu, Rodrigo Bautista,

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Rhen Caculitan, Domingo Beato, Jerry Canas, Gerald Flor Gutierrez, Junel Ryan

Denolo, Allan Hagoriles, Realino Hermo, Philip Rabosa and Joel Comaling.

The Celebration of the Holy Eucharist was a meaningful one with the presence and

participation of the families, friends, classmates, and loved ones who came from the

different places in the Philippines and some all the way from Australia to attend the very

important celebration.

Bishop Jose Palma, D.D. of the Diocese of Calbayog, Samar was the main presider at the

Holy Eucharist. The Commissary General, Fr. Artemio Jusayan, O. Carm., was the

preacher and accepted the vows of the friars on behalf of the Prior General.

As a tradition, Fr. Peter Kramer, O.Carm., being the oldest member present, the Chapter

XIV of the Carmelite Rule. Fr. Christian Buenafe, O. Carm. read the assignments/

appointments for Bro. Alaindelon Balasabas and the newly professed friars.

After the Mass, a simple lunch was served to the guests. It was an opportunity for the

parents, relatives, friends and the Carmelites to integrate and be acquainted with one

another. A well prepared program followed with messages, song and dance numbers

took place in the evening.

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O.Carm.- OCD Integration

The Student Friars of both branches: the Order of Carmelite (O.Carm) and Order of

Carmelites Discalced (OCD) met last May 6-9, 2005 for the joint Spirituality Forum-

Integration held at Titus Brandsma Center, Acacia Street and Mark Horan Hall,

Broadway both in New Manila, Quezon City.

Fathers Sirenio Jaranilla, Christian Buenafe and Martin Pierik, O.Carm shared the life

and works of Blessed Titus Brandsma during the first day of the joint program. Sisters

Gertita Tacuyan and Jean Jordan of the Carmelite Missionaries (CM) presented

chronologically the life and works of Blessed Francisco Palau. While Sr. Edith Burgos,

OCDS shared the life and works and Mysticism of St. Edith Stein. All of the invited key

speakers highlighted the relevance of the topics for today.

The activities and interaction among O.Carm and OCD Student Friars were enriching

and inspiring. An outdoor sports was also organized to nourish not only the minds and

hearts but also to foster fraternity through sportsmanship in the afternoon of May 8. It

was full of fun.

A concelebrated Eucharistic liturgy summarized and concluded the four (4) day event.

Fr. Arne Bhoeme, OCD presided and Fr. Bernard Roosendal, O.Carm preached at the

mass which was followed by a sumptuous Agape at the OCD refectory and garden. It
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was a night of sharing joys, dreams, plans and visions towards further interaction and

collaboration. Keep it up guys!

TITUS BRANDSMA MEDIA CENTER CORNER

TBCMP and Community Development in Palawan

TBCMP sees the need for media education training of community development workers

to assist them in their work in organizing and mobilizing the community. Thus, TBCMP

developed a module on, “The State of Philippine Media and the Challenges for

Community Development Workers” and “Film Dialogue and Social

Conscientization.” These modules will aid community development workers on how

media influences and how it can be used to its maximum potential for their causes and

advocacies.

Attendees of the course were representatives from different NGOs in Palawan:. The

Environmental Legal Assistance Center, Inc. (ELAC), Palawan Conservation Corps,

Nagkakaisang Tribu ng Palawan (NATRIPAL), Bangsa Palawan-Philippines, Inc. (BPPI)

and Haribon Foundation Palawan. There were local government unit and youth leaders

who attended as they are local partners of the said NGOs. The seminar was held last

April 6-7, 2005 at Bulwagang Prinsesa, Puerto Prinsesa City, Palawan.

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Other Seminars

• Last June 1, 2005, TBCMP conducted the modular courses on “Teaching in

the Multimedia Age” and “Media and Spirituality through Film Dialogue”

to the elementary faculty and non- teaching staff of Colegio del Buen

Consejo in Pasig City. The school is administered by the Augustinian

Sisters of Our Lady of Consolation (OSA).

• At the Parish of the Our Lady of the Abandoned (POLA) in Hulo,

Mandaluyong City, a number of parish catechists were the beneficiaries of

the course “Teaching in the Multimedia Age” last June 19, 2005. The parish

is administered by the Mission Society of the Philippines.

‘Musta na ang Pinoy Media?’

Bros. Arnulfo Alindayu and Junel Ryan Denolo, O. Carm with Jofti Villena, program

coordinator of TBCMP attended a seminar-workshop on Basic Media Appreciation

entitled, ‘Musta na ang Pinoy Media?’ last April 26-30, 2005 at the CCP Dream Theatre.

This was organized by the Media Arts Division of the Cultural Center of the Philippines.

The facilitator was Ms. Minda Casagan and a set of CCP student volunteers.
 25

The seminar-workshop discussed the history and importance of print media, television

and radio and the telenovelas as a new religion. Facilitators were known media

practitioners in the field: Ms. Leah Manto-Beltran (KABAYAN), Prof. Josefina M. C.

Santos (UP broadcast professor), Ms. Jean Manipol-Lanzona (Line Producer, GMA 7)

and Dr. Clodualdo del Mundo, Jr. (Writer/Chairman of Dept. of Communication, La

Salle University).

During the last day of the seminar, TBCMP representatives were assigned to write the

synthesis/statement and present it to the participants of various workshops conducted by

CCP. Here are some of the excerpts:

“Transforming Pinoy media is rooted in the acceptance of the

true and sorry condition of the industry that is systemic and

which cannot be done by one or two efforts but collaborative

efforts of the owners and major decision-makers and, of course,

the audience.

…All together let us help each other and transform Pinoy media

to stop it from being a tool of oppression of the people but a tool

of empowerment and social transformation.”

TBCMP joins World Press Freedom Day celebration!

 26

Last May 3, 2005, TBCMP together with other media organizations; the

National Union of Journalists in the Philippines (NUJP), Philippine Center for

Photojournalists (PCP), Defense Press Corps, Metro Manila Radio Reporters

Organization (MMRRO), Press Fund for Filipino Journalists (FFFJ), Center for

Community Journalism and Development (CCJD), Antonio Zumel Center for

Press Freedom, College Editors Guild of the Philippines (CEGP) and University

of the Philippines College of Mass Communication students celebrated the

World Press Freedom Day thru a prayer rally.

It was intended to be a celebration of freedom but with eyes wide open, the

situation of the journalists in the Philippines is becoming worse as journalists

are killed one after another, making this country the second most dangerous

place for journalists, next to Iraq. This day was a day of condemnation for the

killings of journalists. The group showed solidarity by building a human chain

for press freedom and lighting of torches. An ecumenical liturgy was

prepared for all the martyrs of press freedom and each representative gave their

statement with conviction. Fr. Christian Buenafe was the presider of the liturgy

while the Carmelite student friars and other church people served as choir.

In support of this condemnation, TBCMP has prepared a statement on the

killings. Here are some of the excerpts:

 27

The Titus Brandsma Center – Media Program, the Carmelite

Media Ministry in the Philippines, together with the entire

members of the Order of Carmelites in the Philippines join the

world in condemning this shameful act of killing of media

practitioners; journalists and publishers.

We remind each one to respect and protect human life. In one

voice, STOP THE KILLINGS OF FILIPINO JOURNALISTS!

We urge our government authorities to act immediately to stop the

killings.

The complete statement can be found at www.tbcmedia.org.

TBA-Philippines on its third Award Season

Next year 2006 will be the Titus Brandsma Award-Philippines third season. For

this year, the award will focus on Community Communication.

The award will be given to two model communities which best exemplify the

spirit of unity, participation, vigilance, sustainability and the effective use of

communication in responding to local issues.

 28

A special award will be given to a community media who take effective

initiatives to connect with the communities they service via partnerships and

linkages.

This focus in this Award season was approved by the Titus Brandsma Awards-

Philippines Foundation Board of Trustees: Dr. Florangel Braid (Chair),

Carmelite Fathers Artemio Jusayan, Bernard Roosendaal, Christian Buenafe

and Ms. Carolina Malay. The launching of the Award season and the start for

the submission of nominees will be on November 15, 2005.

9th TOC NATIONAL CONVENTION

Led by TOC National Prioress Sister Nimfa Tangcuangco, Fr. Toto Sirenio

Jaranilla, O. Carm, TOC Spiritual Director, and Bro. Joe Generoso III, TOC National

Formation Director, Third Order Carmelite Priors/Prioresses, Formation Directors/

Directresses and guests from twenty-six TOC communities from the regions of Luzon,

the Visayas and Mindanao gathered in San Francisco, Agusan del Sur, last April 19 – 22,

2005 for the 9th TOC National Convention. The theme of the Convention was “Towards

a Deeper Involvement In Carmelite Ministries.” The four-fold ministries were

knowledgeably presented as follows: Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation by

Carmelite associate Atty. Carlito Ranoco; Carmelite Vocation Promotion by Fr. Gilbert
 29

Sabado, O. Carm; Confraternity of the Brown Scapular by Fr. Sirenio Jaranilla, O.Carm.

and the Young Carmel Philippines Foundation (YCPF) by Fr. Aristarco Escobal, O.

Carm). The workshops held after every presentation of a particular ministry proved to be

very fruitful in the sense that the objectives were enthusiastically answered by the

delegates with the promise to carry on.

An extremely confident Sr. Tancuangco presented her State of the TOC Report

before an eagerly interested audience. Her report, on computer power point, listed the

following significant issues and developments of the TOC during the last three years:

1. The RDS (Reading, Discussion, Sharing) Method of Formation and Study

Modules

2. Thematic Annual Retreats

3. Annual Fraternal Visits

4. Evaluation of Candidates for Reception and Profession

5. Systematization of Our Central File

6. Purging of Membership List Via Strict Implementation of the Rule on Attendance

7. Rite of Hermitage

8. Split of Bulacan Community

9. Philippine TOC Ministries

10. YCPF Ministry

11. Founding of New TOC Communities Since 2002 to present

12. Financial Status

 30

13. 2006 International Convention in Portugal (recently moved to Rome)

14. Future Plans for a Tertiary house

15. Policy on the Use of the National Fund

True to form, Sis Nimfa declared: “The TOC is a lifetime commitment for me,

and it should be a lifetime commitment for you as well.” She meant business.

In the same manner, cool, calm and collected Bro Joe sketched a highly

interpretive Profile of the present-day Lay Carmelite. He based his portrait on the

outcome of the mandatory one-day recollection of the TOC communities using the

Spiritual Preparation module prepared by Fr. Toto early in the year. Anchoring on the

joyful, sorrowful, glorious and luminous moments of our members, Bro Joe concluded

that “… today’s TOC (is) a person struggling to balance his time between family and

community… (who) values the importance of formation… that (indeed) there are those

who really have a calling…”

The keenly awaited elections for National Prior or Prioress and seven Regional

Coordinators provided the climax for the richly productive and orderly Convention. Sr.

Nimfa Tangcuangco was reelected National Prioress with more than a 2/3 majority votes.

The elected Regional Coordinators were Bro. Ruel Santos for Bulacan; Sr. Violy

Veneracion for Cabanatuan, Sr. Lucy Conejos for the Visayas and Sr. Rosalinda Moreno

for Mindanao, Sr. Erlinda Guivara for NCR Metro, Sr. Naty Santos for NCR North and

Sr. Rose Molina for NCR South.

 31

Deserving special mention is the bountiful generosity and cooperation of the

Agusan Carmelite community and TOC communities of San Francisco, Rosario and

Prosperidad without which the 9th TOC National Convention would certainly not be the

resounding success that it was.

YCPF

Meet Sarah!

Miss Sarah C. Bisuña is the Secretary of Young Carmel Philippines Foundation (YCPF)

secretariat. She started to work in YCPF office last June 11. She was born in Manila but

grew up in Rizal province. She is the second among a brood of four and finished her

Bachelor Science in Commerce major in Management degree from Far Eastern

University. Prior to YCPF, she worked in two different companies with almost the same

job specification before she joined the YCPF ministry. When asked why she decided to

transfer, she said: “I choose to work here at the foundation for I believe in their mission

and the values they are inculcating in the community.” Welcome to the family!

Mission Appeal 2005

 32

The YCPF Director, Fr. Aristarco Escobal, O.Carm. left the country last June 13 for a

Mission Appeal in the United States and Canada. He will be visiting the different

Carmelite communities and parishes in PCM and St. Elias provinces. Fr. Escobal will

join the other missionaries from Indonesia and Indian. His main areas are Buffalo and

Mane in New York which will keep him busy until August 31. After this, he will visit

Canada to established more YCPF networks.

2005 July Birthday Celebrants

JuLY

2 Flordeliza Libiran

3 Remedios Umarce

4 Melba Candy (USA)

Enjing Contreras

Helen Dinaya

5 Filomena Bagamasbad

6 Sr.Annie Delos Reyes,TOC

Myrna N. Gamboa

Antonio Petalcorin

7 Hydie Gumbol

Josie Palacio

8 Eddie Corvera

9 Julieta Tabora

Consolacion Joaquin
 33

Cirilo Brix

10 Francis Barrios (Canada)

11 Mely Sia (Canada)

Crisanto Cebrian

Leonor Aludo

Lourdes Mondejar

15 Sharon Bowman (USA)

16 Carmelita Hilario

Carmen Subsuban

Eugenio Sotelo

17 Marcelino Paduata

Edsel M. Basco (USA)

Emmanuel Paspas

18 Sally Cabellon (USA)

19 Julio Talahuron

Nestor Reazaso

20 Espie Lomosbog (USA)

21 Sr.Agnes Gonzales,TOC

Enrique Tangcuangco

Daniel Natindim (NY)

Tony Cabellon (USA)

Julieta Rasco (Canada)

22 Amalia Martinez (NY)

 34

Nemesio Abasola

23 Beng Sia (Canada)

24 Niceto Ranario

25 Sr. Bei Aromin, TOC

Orlando Torralba (NY)

Rolando Sanchez

Emily Jules G. Tomol (USA)

26 Fermina Repol (NY)

Erlinda Enriquez (Canada)

Noel Roy Agustin (USA)

28 Paz Victoria Tanada

Dr. Victor de Villa

Mercedes Pimentel (USA)

30 Abdon Nito Sulay

31 Sr. Fe Apostol

2005 AUGUST Birthday Celebrants

August

1 Dino Bartolome

3 Julieta Gregori (USA)

Aida Dela Cruz (Canada)

4 Mrs. Talahuron

Rebecca Aguilar (Canada)

Catherine Suarez
 35

Marie Santiago

6 Troy Buenafe

8 Dominic Guevarra

Esmeraldo Darantes (USA)

9 Hermana Juarez

11 May Agaran

12 Resty Aguilar

Clara Venerayan

Josephine Ambingan

14 Angelita Marcelo

Cynthia Camacho

Zenaida Juanitez (USA)

16 Purificacion Romero

Danilo De Joya Robles

17 Mari Barrios (Canada)

18 Ligaya Cunanan

19 Esther Noblega

Atty.Bombi Fernandez

20 Erlinda

Mercy Subibe

Joy Papas

21 Dr. Benjie Syguan,TOC

22 Norma Bartolo
 36

Julieta Valeriano

24 Samson Aurea

Rosario Baltazar

Ramon Lomosbog (USA)

25 Josefina Reynoso

Ying Ganotisi

27 Frederico Blanca

Jenil Dela Cruz (Canada)

29 William Quintero

Candida Ripolda (USA)

30 Rosa Santiago

Ofelia Mirandilla

Norma Martinez (USA)

31 Marie Kristine Ilagan

2005 SEPTEMBER Birthday Celebrants

SEPTEMBER

2 Danilo Uy

3 Mrs. Sotelo

4 Lilia Eustaquio

Fe Gayla

Zenaida Enalbes
 37

5 Teofoldo Serano

6 Virginia Guingon,TOC

Socorro Pedrosa

Delfin G. Sia, Jr. (Canada)

7 Mike Herrera (Canada)

Panfilo Basco

8 Mark Anthony Reyes

9 Carmen Domingo

David Consejo

Juanito Aguilar (USA)

10 Rudy Eugenio (USA)

11 Lucy Marte (USA)

Victoria Polayapoy

Rodelo Cadelina

Remedios Apao

Estela Caspino

12 Shirley Pantilag

Arnold Angeles (Canada)

Daisy Tejares

Rebecca Magdadaro

13 Lolita Buot

Rosalie A. Castro

15 Elbert Umila Jr.

 38

Rose Bautista (USA)

16 Julieta Gaspar, TOC

Helen Marquez, TOC

18 Nemia Ilustre (Canada)

20 Ricardo Mayormita

Arthur Pascua

Teopista Dipaling

Sofia Jarmin

21 Rolando Aquino

22 Rebecca Grande

Kristiana Rafaele Albana

24 Mercedes Santillan

Carol Moraleda

Fe Lim (NY)

Mercedes Brillantes (USA)

25 Marie Maczura (USA)

27 Roberto Tipones

28 Cheche Lynda Bongo

29 Jason Rea

30 Lourdes Sevalla

Lucita Tabaranga
 39

Positive View of Spiritual Life: Resurrection Must Follow Death

To reach this life of union a long way must be traversed. In the beginning, one striving

for recollection will see that a heavy fight against nature is necessary; much must die in

us in order that God may live in us free and unhindered. There is a life that in its first

degrees might rather be called a passing away. But Teresa will not see the way to the

union with God as a mere negative one; death must be a passing to a new life. While all

that is a hindrance to the kingdom of God in us is killed, at the same time the divine

Gardener must strew the seed of virtues and we should plant and look after the garden

of our heart, because by and by when the sun is high, the flowers will shoot up in that

garden as a revelation of anew spring time. For a great part, that care, that watering is

put in our own hands. Not only should we weed, but also plant and water.

Carmelite Mysticism

Historical Sketches

By Rev. Titus Brandsmam, O.Carm. p. 75