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A Pastoral Letter of the CBCP on the occasion of the 400 Years of Catholic Education in the Philippines
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Ugnayan
The News Supplement of Couples for Christ
Vol. 16 No. 5
Php 20.00
THE head of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines scored the governments fuel subsidy program, saying that it will not help the motorists.
Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma, CBCP president, said that what transport sector needs is not a palliative response but a direct action to help the motorists regarding the oil price hikes. We do not encourage short solution totally. We encourage them to think of long term solution. So we need programs or real solutions for the problem of our country, said Palma. He said that the Aquino administrations Pantawid Pasada program is not the answer to the problems faced by the motorists and also does little to provide relief to the public. The CBCP head instead called on the government to set aside its dole-out mentality and take utmost priority on long term solutions to
the countrys problems. According to him Filipinos, especially the poor, do not need hand-outs for their sustenance.
Remove overpricing, VAT Labor group Kilusang Mayo Uno earlier called on the government to remove the overpricing in oil products as a way to reduce prices. Overpricing in petroleum products was estimated to be around P9.00 per liter last August. The group also urged to the government to remove the 12 percent Value-Added Tax on oil if only to cushion oil price hike impact. In a Feb. 22 press statement, the Department of Energy said it is in the process of reloading 1, 200 pesos to beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pasada program for public utility vehicles (PUJs). The DOE noted that since there were about 100,000 cards issued. Some cards will be loaded earlier than others. The agency added that reloading will be based on plate numbers starting from plates ending in zero until nine. News bulletins will
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Migration and Evangelization is the theme chosen by Pope Benedict XVI for this years World Day of Migrants and Refugees. The Catholic Church in the Philippines observes National Migrants Sunday every First Sunday of Lent to acknowledge not only the growing number of Filipinos leaving the country in search of a living but also of their becoming agents of evangelization.
WHILE proponents of the Reproductive Health (RH) bill insist that access to free birth control is what the countrys poor people need to improve their lot, the measure actually shows a low regard for the poor, say those who reject the bill. Despite a recent statement made by a feminist group admitting that the bill is neither pro-poor nor pro-women, more Filipinos are opposing the bill because they now realized that RH legislation actually discriminates against the poor. Those against the bill pointed out that the measure shifts the burden of addressing the citizens concerns from the government to the people, and by keeping the number of poor people to a minimum not by providing opportunities for advancement, but by conditioning the poor to think that their poverty makes them undeserving and incapable of raising children beyond a certain number. Why waste money on something that is counterproductive when we should focus on using the budget on what is so obviously
needed? The masses need quality education, jobs and basic needs. The laws we already have on family health need to be enforced before we even try introducing new methods, said CJ Manzano, a photographer. The government desperately needs to upgrade medical facilities that are accessible to the poor. They need to improve the standards of living for the masses, not prevent them from being born! he added. The RH bill, whose Senate and House versions are still the subject of interpellations, proposes the earmarking of P3 billion per year for its implementation. Sen. Pia Cayetano, however, revealed during floor debates last year that the Department of Health (DoH) has asked for P13.7 billion for the bills implementation for 2012 alone. Though no breakdown has been provided by the bills sponsors, a huge chunk of the budget is expected to be poured into the procurement, promotion and distribution of birth control drugs and devices which includes keeping them in steady supply in
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all sectors of society, not just a select and influential few, Pabillo said. It is not true development when the powerless populations are harassed, threatened and live
in insecurity due to imminent, forced and deceptive land grabbing, putting their livelihood and social security of their generation into question, not to mention the
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ROME, Italy, Feb. 24, 2012Over 100 former Anglicans from the British Isles concluded a pilgrimage to Rome Feb. 24 in thanksgiving for the creation of the Personal Ordinariate of Our Lady of Walsingham. It has been quite poignant because almost all of the people who are with me were not Catholics until Easter last year, Monsignor Keith Newton, the head of the U.K. ordinariate told CNA on Feb. 24. The ordinariate was established last year by Pope Benedict XVI to give Anglicans the possibility of entering into communion with the Catholic Church while still preserving their distinctive Anglican patrimony. Now they have come to the center of Catholicism, theyve come to the tombs of Sts. Peter and Paul to pray and to give thanks, and I think theyve been genuinely moved by this, really, Msgr. Newton said of his fellow pilgrims. The Personal Ordinariate of Our Lady of Walsingham already has 57 priests and over 1,000 members throughout England, Wales and Scotland. This Eas-
World News
ter it will receive another 200 lay people and 20 priests into the Church. Wonderful is not a strong enough word to express what we all feel at being together here, said Father Len Black, the homilist at a Feb. 24 morning Mass in St. Peters Basilica. Fr. Black was a Scottish Episcopalian minister for 30 years. I am certain that, like me, this week you have all experienced the feeling of coming home, he told the congregation in the basilicas Chapel of St. Joseph. Nowhere can we truly experience this other than being here, so close to the place where the apostle Peter gave his life for the faith and where his successors have guarded the faith for generations. On Wednesday the group was personally welcomed by Pope Benedict XVI during his weekly audience in the Vaticans Paul VI Hall. In return the pilgrims stood and sang the hymn Praise to the Holiest, which was composed by Blessed John Henry Newman. The 19th century Anglican cleric turned Catholic cardinal is the ordinariates patron. I think our musical heritage is as strong part of our patrimony, said 28-year-old Michael Vian Clark to CNA after todays Mass. He became Catholic in 2007 and is now the Director of Music at Buckfast Abbey in Devon, England. His highlight of the week was attending Mass at the basilica of San Giorgio in Velabro, which was Cardinal Newmans titular church in Rome. It was very, very moving for us to celebrate Mass there with some of the texts Blessed John Henry might have known, but also, importantly, to use two of his hymns as the offertory and post communion, which was really moving and touching in that particular place. He said that even though Bl. John Henry Newman would not have thought that would ever be possible here we are and it happened. With little money and no church buildings being given to them by the Bishops of England & Wales, it seems to have been a difficult but happy first year for the U.K. ordinariate. Weve had to live by faith and, in
CBCP Monitor
February 27 - March 11, 2012
Vol. 16 No. 5
Monsignor Keith Newton and other members of the Personal Ordinariate of Our Lady of Walsingham pose in St. Peters Basilica.
the end, God has provided, said Msgr. Newton. None of us are hungry, none of us
have nowhere to live. God will provide, and I think weve just got to trust him. (CNA)
Vatican Briefing
Pontiff calls for end to Syria violence
During his Angelus address on Feb. 12, Benedict XVI made an urgent appeal for an end to the bloodshed in Syria. In recent days there have been many victims, some of them children. I recall them all in my prayers, just as I do the wounded and those who are suffering the consequences of an increasingly worrying conflict, he said. I also renew my urgent appeal to put an end to the violence and bloodshed and, finally, invite everyone particularly the Syrian authoritiesto favor the paths of dialogue, reconciliation and commitment to peace, the Pope continued. (Zenit)
Big families are sign of optimism, says pontiff
Benedict XVI on Feb. 15 offered words of encouragement for families with many children. At the end of the general audience, he greeted representatives of the National Association of Large Families. In todays social context, families with many children are a witness of faith, of courage and of optimism, for without children there is no future, he said. The Holy Father added that he hopes adequate social and legislative measures for the safeguarding and support of larger families will continue to be promoted, since these families constitute a source of wealth and hope for the entire country. (Zenit)
Vatican finances also seeing economic crunch
The number of people following Pope Benedict XVI on Twitter has increased 400 percent over the last 24 hours. On Feb. 23 his account had 2,500 subscribers, but today that figure is at more than 12,500 and is rising. It is quite incredible, said Monsignor Paul Tighe, Secretary of the Pontifical Council for Social Communications, to CNA on Feb. 24. And not just the numbers who are now following the Popes Tweets but also the number who are then re-Tweeting his message to others. Its great. The dramatic upsurge in interest in the Popes Twitter presence coincided with the beginning of Lent on Feb. 22. (CNA)
Bioethicist welcomes Popes call for ethical infertility treatments
Pope Benedict XVIs call for more research into ethical treatments for infertility as an alternative to in vitro fertilization is being applauded by a leading Catholic bioethicist. The Pope is quite right when he says that IVF is a profit making business they make a lot of money and their success rates are not great, Dr. Edward Furton of the National Catholic Bioethics Center told CNA on Feb. 27. The profit motive here is not good. There are lesser known, more ethical, more effective methods which are being ignored because these labs are making money telling couples that IVF is the best or only option. (CNA)
Youth catechism is best selling Catholic book worldwide
The co-creator of the Churchs catechism for young people has revealed that its now the top selling Catholic book in the world. The latest figures show that Youcat has sold 1.7 million copies worldwide. Its been a great success in nearly every country where it has been published, said German publisher Bernard Meuser in a Feb. 23 interview with CNA. For example, it is number one in Spain, number one in America, and number one in Germany along with the Popes latest book. (CNA)
Pope begins retreat, encourages prayer, fasting, charity
rejected the rule, along with a promised change purportedly shifting the burden to insurers. In their letter, Cardinal Dolan and Bishop Lori confirmed that Health and Human Services original ruleforcing religious groups to underwrite the preventive services directly, rather than contracting to provide them through premium payments to insurershad become law without change. The mandate to provide the illicit services remains, they wrote. The exceedingly narrow exemption for churches remains. Despite the outcry, all the threats to religious liberty posed by the initial rules remain. Those initial rules drew public condemnation from over 180 Roman Catholic and Eastern Catholic bishops in the U.S., as well as 53 of the countrys Eastern Orthodox bishops and thousands of other religious leaders. Cardinal Dolan and Bishop Lori thanked the U.S. Catholic bishops for their remarkable witness of our unity in faith and strength of conviction during this past month. We came together, joined by people of every creed and political persuasion, to make one thing resoundingly clear: we stand united against any attempt to deny or weaken the right to religious liberty upon
Pope Benedict XVI asked Catholics for their prayers as he began his weeklong Lenten retreat Feb. 26. Before reciting the Angelus prayer at midday with visitors in St. Peters Square, he also prayed that all Catholics would embrace the spirit of this holy season, through prayer, fasting and almsgiving. Congolese Cardinal Laurent Monsengwo of Kinshasa was chosen to preach the retreat Feb. 26-March 3 for Pope Benedict and top Vatican officials in the Redemptoris Mater Chapel inside the Apostolic Palace. The cardinals topic was to be Communion of the Christian with God. (CNS)
Vatican diplomat attends Friends of Syria summit
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A Vatican diplomat attended an international summit seeking an end to Syrias yearlong civil war. Archbishop Michael L. Fitzgerald, apostolic nuncio to Egypt and the Holy Sees delegate to the Arab League, was an observer at the so-called Friends of Syria meeting Feb. 24 in Tunis, Tunisia, said the Vaticans top spokesman, Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi. The meeting of representatives of about 60 Western and Arab states called for an immediate ceasefire and demanded that Syria open humanitarian corridors. The nations also pledged to increase aid and to set up relief depots in areas along the Syrian border. (CNS)
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The Holy Sees finances are supported by donations from the faithful, such that the Vatican too feels the worldwide economic crisis. A communiqu Feb. 17 stated that the cardinals expressed satisfaction at the forecast results but not failing to make known their concern at the prevailing general crises, which has not spared even the general economic system of the Vatican. This is evident above all as regards the Holy See, which receives indispensable subsidization from the free offerings of the faithful. The Council of Cardinals for the Study of the Organizational and Economic Problems of the Holy See noted profound gratitude for the support the faithful give, often anonymously, to the universal ministry of the Holy Father, and exhorted them to continue this good work. (Zenit)
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CBCP Monitor
Vol. 16 No. 5
February 27 - March 11, 2012
News Features
themselves and their lives to that of Christ, including those who had fallen away from the Church. The Pope said that the participation of the whole community emphasizes that redemption is not available to only a few, but to all, through the death and resurrection of Christ. The time leading up to Easter is a time of metanoia, a time of change and penance, a time which identifies our human lives and our entire history as a process of conversion, which begins to move now in order to meet the Lord at the end of time, he said. Pope Benedict noted that the Church calls the 40 days leading up to Easter Quadragesima. And it does so with a clear reference to Sacred Scripture, where the number 40 often symbolically used to express a time of expectation, purification, and return to the Lord, he taught. The Pope said that the Christian liturgy of Lent is meant to spur a journey of spiritual renewal and time more focused on learning how to imitate Jesus, who showed Christians how to overcome temptation with the Word of God. The Pope asked those at todays audience to note how God sustained his people, even in the wilderness. After their exodus from Egypt, for example, God preceded the Jewish people in a cloud or a pillar of fire, ensured their daily nourishment showering manna upon them, and bringing forth water from rock. It was in many ways a time of the special election of God or, added the Pope, the time of first love, of a people for their God. But time spent in the desert can also be the time of the greatest temptations and dangers, Pope Benedict observed, pointing out that this happened to Jesus but without any compromise with sin. Jesus always sought moments of solitude to pray to his Father but it is in those moments he was most assailed by temptation and the seduction of devil. It was there, for example, that he was offered another messianic way, far from Gods plan. Just as this dynamic is found in the Old and New Testaments, the Pope said, it can also be found in the condition of the
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pilgrim Church as it makes its way through the wilderness of the world and history. This wilderness is made up of the aridity and poverty of words, life and values, of secularism and the culture of materialism which encloses people within a worldly horizon and detaches them from any reference
to the transcendent, he said. It is in such an atmosphere that the sky above us is dark, because it is veiled with clouds of selfishness, misunderstanding and deceit. At the same time, the wilderness can become a period of grace for the Church, because we have the certainty that even
from the hardest rock God can cause the living water to gush forth, water which quenches thirst and restores strength. Pope Benedict finished by saying that this hope in Gods power should sustain the Church and each Christian during the following 40 days. (CNA/EWTN News)
Catholics must know truth if they are to share it, pope tells cardinals
VATICAN City, Feb. 17, 2012If objective truth does not exist, there is no compass and we wont know where to go, Pope Benedict XVI told members and almost-members of the College of Cardinals. An awareness of the truth of the revelation of God in Jesus Christ makes life rich and beautiful and is essential for sharing the Christian faith with others, the pope said Feb. 17 at the end of a daylong meeting of the College of Cardinals. The pope thanked Cardinal-designate Timothy M. Dolan of New York, who gave the days main presentation on missionary activity and the new evangelization. The pope said the New York prelates talk was enthusiastic, joyful and profound. In his morning address to the group, which included most of the 21 other churchmen who were to be made cardinals with him Feb. 18, Cardinaldesignate Dolan said secularism has had an easy time spreading through many traditionally Christian cultures because so many Christians do not know their faith and do not grasp the truth it teaches. While the New York prelate did not downplay the challenges the church faces in reviving the faith of its members and bringing the Gospel to those who have never heard it, he delivered his assessment with his characteristic smile and broad gestures, telling Pope Benedict and the cardinals that evangelization requires joy and love. When I became the archbishop of New York, a priest told me, You better stop smiling when you walk the streets of Manhattan or youll be arrested, he said, but he still believes Christians must show the world that faith is saying yes to everything decent, good, true, beautiful and noble. The meeting was attended by 133 prelates, including at least 20 of the 22 who were to receive their red hats from the pope the following morning. During the morning session, Pope Benedict did not address the assembly and was not one of the seven participants who commented on the presentation by Cardinal-designate Dolan, although the pope did laugh when the New York archbishop made fun of his speaking Italian like a child. The morning session also featured a brief presentation by Archbishop Rino Fisichella, president of the Pontifical Council for the New Evangelization, on plans for the 2012-2013 Year of Faith. The pope spoke at the end of the evening session, after another 20 cardinals and cardinals-designate had taken the floor to speak. Pope Benedict told the assembly that the teachings of the Second Vatican Council were important for rediscovering the relevance of Jesus and of faith today, and he echoed Cardinaldesignate Dolans call for a true renewal of catechesis to combat what has been defined as religious illiteracy. In his morning presentation, Cardinal-designate Dolan said that when Cardinal Angelo Sodano, dean of the College of Cardinals, asked him to be the main presenter, he hinted that he did so because New York might be the capital of secular culture. New Yorkwithout denying its dramatic evidence of graphic secularism is also a very religious city, he said, where even those who boast of their secularism exhibit an openness to the divine and have questions about God. While secularism is invading every aspect of daily life, the New York prelate said, it also is true that most people, on some level, still question the ultimate meaning of life and still ponder the idea of God. Even a person who brags about being secular and is dismissive of religion has within an undeniable spark of interest in the beyond, and recognizes that humanity and creation is a dismal riddle without the concept of some kind of creator, he said. The cardinal-designate said those people dont want to be considered objects of missionary activity, but Christians have an obligation to help them maintain their search for meaning in life. Humility, joy and love are key to the success of the evangelization efforts of the church and its members, he said. Triumphalism in the church was dead after the Second Vatican Council, he said, but so was confidence. Catholics recognize that they and their church need conversion, too, he said. And, they must be convinced that what they are sharing with others is not a doctrine, but the person of Jesus. At the same time, because Jesus is the truth, Catholics must make a commitment to combat catechetical illiteracy, he said. True enough, the new evangelization is urgent because secularism has often choked the seed of faith, but that choking was sadly made easy because so many believers really had no adequate knowledge or grasp of the wisdom, beauty and coherence of the truth, he said. Cardinal-designate Dolan said that on the eve of receiving his red hat from the pope, he also had to speak of the fact that Christians are called to love and serve the church and their neighbors, even to the point of shedding their blood if necessary. The cardinals, he said, are but scarlet audiovisual aids for all our brothers and sisters, who also are called to be ready to suffer and die for Jesus. Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi, Vatican spokesman, did not release the names of the 27 cardinals who intervened in the discussion, but he summarized the points that were made. Several of the cardinals, he said, spoke about the difficulties evangelizing in their specific countries or cultures. Mention was made of the growing number of Christians in China, despite the difficulties, presumably with government control over religion; about interreligious dialogue and the fight against poverty in India; the important role of popular religious devotions for evangelization in Latin America; and about secularisms attempts to marginalize religion in the West. Participants insisted on the importance of ecumenism for fostering a common Christian witness to the faith, on the continuing relevance of the Second Vatican Council as a guide for the church today and on the value of Christian joy and holiness for evangelization, he said. (CNS)
as created in the image and likeness of God and who deep down has basic needs that only God can fully satisfy," he said. "Social and spiritual concerns are both present; one is not separated from the other, but rather, they are dimensions of the one same integral development of the human person and society," the cardinal said. In his speech to the group, the pope said a huge obstacle in proclaiming the Gospel is hedonism, "which has contributed to making the crisis of values in people's daily life spread to the family and how people make sense of one's life." The increasing problems of pornography and prostitution are symptoms of this "serious social malaise." The church must also pay close attention to the current culture and work diligently in helping "the light of the Gospel insert itself in the cultural
milieu" so as to enlighten it and prevent "false cultures" that de-humanize people from taking hold. Pope Benedict said the church needs to pay close attention to the family, which, as the domestic church, "is also the strongest guarantee of the renewal of society." The family safeguards traditions, customs, habits, and rituals of faith, and can have a big impact on fostering vocations, he said. The current mentality of materialism can have a negative effect on vocations, but the family is also a pivotal player in the formation of the young, he said. As the church, family and other institutions work together in raising the next generations, the pope asked the bishops to pay special attention to young people's "human and spiritual growth, encouraging them also to do volunteer work, which can have educational value." (CNS)
Noli Yamsuan/RCAM
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EDITORIAL
Opinion
Its more fun
CBCP Monitor
February 27 - March 11, 2012
Vol. 16 No. 5
WOULD that everything were all right with the Philippine Government, with Philippine Democracy, with the People of the Philippines! Would that the Legislature enact needed and relevant laws, the Executive able and satisfactorily implement them, and the Judiciary accordingly act on their violations! Would that there be equality and separation of powerin truth and in factamong the said three branches of government! Would that the Philippine Constitution be not merely a nice paper to read but really a basic document for the government to abide with and for the people to live by! Then, the Philippines would be a blessed country and the Filipinos a fortunate people. On the ground, the Philippine Government does not seem to be of the people, by the people and for the peoplebut of the politicians, by the politicians and for the politicians. The Legislative Department rests primarily immersed in but partisan politics and consequent political alliances. The Executive Department remains dawdling and inept in its mandatory agenda for the common good and public welfare of the citizenry. The Supreme Court is getting more perceived as anything but supreme in the interpretation and application of the laws of the land. To say that such an adverse composite phenomenon spells social disaster for the country and misery for people is one big understatement. Something is wrong with a country that is not simply divided by islands and regions but also by different ideologies plus separatist movementsnot to mention the division of certain sectors of Philippine society in terms of the colors of humdrum yellow and dangerous red. This is not even pointing out the division of the Filipinos into mega rich and pitiful poor families, into very powerful and truly powerless individuals. This is neither even making mention of the fact that the agricultural/industrial development of the country remains but a dream of long standing that the Philippine economy rests at the mercy of foreign capital or multinational companies. The order of things are certainly not going too well when all government attention and effort, agencies and public funds are concentrated on the on-going Impeachment Process perceived to be initiated by the Chief Executive against the Chief Justice. There is now in effect an ably dividing Executive Department resulting into a divided people. There is indeed more fun in the Philippines if fun equals long winded rhetoric and dole-out or palliative developmental programs that are not meant in any way to strengthen economic fundamentals; if fun means unabated criminality be it day or night in the country especially in Metro Manila; if fun is the profound enigma of the statistical findings that there are less poor but more hungry Filipinos, then the over-all conclusion is really more fun.
Pastoral Companion
OVER the past two months since Dec. 16-17 when Typhoon Sendong wrought widespread destruction throughout our city of Cagayan de Oro, the archdiocese has been addressing three major concerns. First among these are the ongoing relief and rehabilitation efforts for the evacuee families. So far about 1,400 families have moved to 18 transitory shelter sites. Another 1,800 families are still staying in two public school buildings, several barangay covered courts, and two church halls. International organizations like the International Office for Migrants, Plan International, Catholic Relief Services, etc. have all pitched in to provide tents, bunkhouses, or locally made huts for the temporary shelter of families. These kinds of shelter have been designed to last for three to six months or even for more than a year. Meanwhile the city government has started to develop its nine hectares in Calaanan for permanent housing units. Likewise Xavier University has been working out its plans for permanent housing on its five
hectares in Lumbia. In all, these two sites can accommodate about 1,500 families. But there is still need for more sites for permanent housing for the remaining 3,000-4,000 families whose houses have been washed away. The archdiocese and other groups from the private sector have been assisting government agencies to identify possible sites that could be donated or purchased for housing units. Our Social Action Center is also planning to develop an area of several hectares for permanent housing. Many civil society organizations, including churches, schools, and NGOs, continue to coordinate with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) regional office in providing for the needs of the affected families. Many of these families are starting to repair or rebuild their houses in areas that are not declared as no-return zones. Periodic family visits for post-trauma counseling and medical monitoring are being done by various groups. Parish priests and ministry workers of the archdiocese have also scheduled
They lied to me
THEY lied to me were the words of Luana Stoltenberg, guest speaker at the Nurses for Life Forum on Dealing with abuse and pregnancyrelated trauma last February 24. Over 200 nursing students and registered nurses listened to Luana and Kay Painter, her co-speaker, relate how the legalization of abortion in the USA has made it so easy for them to obtain abortion out of convenience and in their own word, selfishness. Luana was only 17 years old when she had her first abortion. She ran away from home to avoid further abuse from her alcoholic father, and got into drinking, drugs and sex. She describes how in her first abortion, she was told that what she was carrying was only bloody tissues, it was legal, and it was going to be a simple procedure. She and her boyfriend then drove to the abortion facility (she refuses to call it a clinic), got on the cold metal table, and with no anesthesia, they ran the vacuum aspirator to suction out the parts of the baby bit by bit. After that, she was told to get cookies and juice in the next room, but she was so distraught that all she wanted to do was get away from that place where so many more young teens were waiting for their abortion. On the way home, she was writhing in pain and bleeding. She did not think she would survive the night, but she did get up alive. However, a part of her inner self had died. She continued to live a promiscuous life, had two more pregnancies and abortion, and attempted suicide three times. It was only after a few years, when her mom called
Love Life
her to tell her that she and her dad had been touched by Christs forgiveness and that Jesus would forgive her too, that she returned to her family and to a life in Christ. She is now married to a godly man, and since the abortions had totally destroyed her fertility, they adopted a two-year old boy from India who is now 23 years old and is working in the US Air Force. Kay, on the other hand, was 39 years old with two teen aged daughters and hard-working husband when she had the abortion. She had the flu so she went to a doctor. He casually said she was pregnant. Exclaiming in surprise that she couldnt be pregnant at her age, the nurse replied that she could choose to have the abortion as it is legal. And if she had it soon, it was still just tissues, not a baby. Kay admits in her sharings that the nurses and doctors told her what she wanted to hear in her own selfish world, instead of encouraging her to go on with the pregnancy. She had the saline instillation methoda high concentration of salt solution was injected into her uterus in order to burn the babys lungs and skin. The baby came out whole but dead after a couple of days. She saw the baby dumped into a garbage can beside her bed. For years she had nightmares of that sight and tried to commit suicide two times. In desperation, she cried to the Lord to give her another chance and she would be a good mom. She did have a son after two years, raised him up well, but since she had withdrawn from her relationships with her daughters and
Love Life / A6
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Candidly Speaking
Pedro C. Quitorio
Editor-in-Chief
Missionary migrants
at how to minister to these faithful and the other people involvedtheir families left behind, their host countries, etc. Some structures and offices have been put up with their corresponding personnel, and some programs and campaigns now start to be carried out. Still, a lot more need to be done. At the moment, what I can think of first of all is how to know this sector more intimately, more personally. These faithful should not just be statistics. Great effort has to be made to know them really well. The Church effort cannot just be bureaucratic in nature, though for sure an amount of bureaucracy is needed. Just imagine the kind of coordination work to be done. But the church ministry has to know the person, helping him in his spiritual needs.
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The CBCP Monitor is published fortnightly by the CBCP Communications Development Foundation, Inc., with editorial and business offices at 470 Gen. Luna St., Intramuros, Manila. P.O. Box 3601, 1076 MCPO. Editorial: (063) 404-2182. Business: (063)404-1612.; ISSN 1908-2940
A HAPPY confluence of events is taking place these days. Our bishops have just declared this year as Year of Mission. They have also declared a National Migrants Sunday. The Pope declared a Year of Faith starting this October. In the same month, Blessed Pedro Calungsod, the Cebuano young catechist, will become the second Filipino saint. A common thread puts them together. Filipino migrants, who continue to be abundant through the years, need to be missionary, and live their faith, giving witness to it wherever they are. Somehow, Saint-to-be Pedro Calungsod embodied these ideals well, even heroically, since he suffered martyrdom for it. There are many nice anecdotes of how Filipino workers abroad have enlivened church life in their new communities, bringing with
them popular devotions to the Sto. Nino, our Lady, etc. But there are also many sad and disturbing stories. To be sure, every Christian faithful is a missionary. Thats the inherent character of a Christian. Whether one goes abroad or remains in the country, he is always a missionary. Unfortunately, this truth is still unknown to many, and so a lot of catechesis is needed in this regard. But obviously, we now need to look with special interest into the lot of our many Filipino overseas workers and migrants. Aside from being many, they are now posing a different kind of challenges. We have to brace ourselves for these new developments. Whether we like it or not, this phenomenon will go on, since this is the inevitable trend. The Philippine Church is now looking
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 16 No. 5
February 27 - March 11, 2012
Opinion
Pro Bono What will end all the debates?
Part 2
for good: all persons born in the United States, regardless of color or previous condition of servitude, were declared citizens of the United States. Persons. With dignity. With rights. Today, they even become President. Turn to another lens: Hitlers abject hatred for Jews. They were not even second class. They were not persons. They were dregs whose only entitlement, if ever there was any, was to extermination. In Auschwitz, hunds had more fun than personen. Here and now: the conceived human. There is denial that the unborn is a personuntil he completes a journey to his mothers womb. Translation: Implantation is when life begins. Before that, there is no protection. Before that, there is no right of the unborn. Before that, he is not a person. From 1857 to the Fourteenth Amendment, it took eleven years. Here, we have a 1987 Constitution but 25 years after, we cannot even invoke Article II Section 12 effectively to banish a reproductive health agenda. The Implantation lie is todays Dred Scott of the unborn. That makes the RH bill the worst proposal ever foisted on the Filipino people. And while the maleficent agenda persists, the indiscernible unborn languishes as a non-person amid the impotence of Article II Section 12. And with RH choices that precisely inhibit his implantation, there is nothing that will ever implant. There is also nothing to ever protect. Therefore, Article II Section 12 is utterly meaningless. Are you kidding me?
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Fr. Carmelo O. Diola
Atty. Jo Imbong
IT is a simple syllogism that goes like so: First premise: Article II Section 12 of the Philippines Constitution acknowledges the right of the unborn to protection from conception. Second premise: Only persons have rights. Therefore: The unborn is a person. That should end the debate. But no, take a look at this: If President Barack Obama had lived in the turbulence of racial bigotry in America in Year 1857, he would not be considered a person. For no less than the Missouri Supreme Court in a manifestly partisan decision in Dred Scott v. John F.A. Sandford gave its imprimatur to the pro-slavery doctrine that slaves (who were blacks) were private property. They were considered chattels, like horses.
Pedigree breeds had more fun than people. Black slaves from Africa were brought to America by ships under conditions that you would not consider even for animals sold for slaughter. It took three months to cross over. Buyers waiting a hundred meters away at the wharf know the ships are nearby because of their wafting odours. By the time the ships dock, more than half of the load has perished. They were not persons. They were simply, lost goods. The Dred Scott decision is still considered by American legal and constitutional scholars to be the worst decision ever rendered by the Supreme Court. It took a Civil War and the Civil War Amendments to overturn Dred Scott. Subsequently, in 1868 the Fourteenth Amendment abolished slavery
the trial, surprisingly gushed forth, Nakaka-in love si Cuevas! Never thought someone so old could be so sharp! Ang galing-galing niya, who cares about his hairdo! The clown could be bald for all I care, but for mea child at hearta circus wouldnt be complete without a magician. Magic tricks so enthrall me that even though I have cracked a few of them I havent given up guessing how the others are done. Rabbits materializing from empty hats, scarves and coins being pulled out of someones ears, a deck of cards disappearing and reappearing in the magicians handall these never fail to entrance me. So, when classified bank documents materialized out of thin air at a congressmans driveway, or reached the trial court through a mysterious female dwarf another circus prop, by the wayI couldnt help but gasp in awe, OMG, I just looove magicians! And they amuse me even more when their gags backfire on them, exposing them as the real clowns! Besides clowns and magicians, what makes the circus such a fascinating experience for me are the big catsthe tigers and the lions. Seeing these carnivores behave in a manner unnatural to themsuch as keeping still on minuscule stools or rolling over like puppies on command, jumping through flaming hoops, and doing other acts in the name of showbizconvinces me that these beasts do possess an intelligence superior to that of some humans who sometimes behave like beasts. It behooves me then to question: what is it about an impeachment trial that turns some Honorable Gentlemen into big catssnarling, growling, and baring their fangs as though going for the kill? Wherever that feline ferocity is directed, I commiserate with the witnesses who under examination have no choice but to cooperate. They must be the acrobats and tightrope walkers in the circus, compelled to perform without prior training. If big cats and acrobats are there to create suspenseful moments in a circus, audiencefriendly animals are also employed to relax spectators. Other Honorables basking in their two minutes of glory in the proceedings strike me as such: chimpanzees that provide laughs (with their clever lines); nimble seals that impress us (with their legal bravado); well-trained dogs that amuse us with hu-
Duc in Altum
THE Filipinos all over the world rejoiced when Pope Benedict XVI announced that the canonization of our very own Blessed Pedro Calungsod will be held on October 21, 2012. The most happy are the officers, trustees and members of Sangguniang Laiko ng Pilipinas or Laiko (formerly Council of the Laity of the Philippines) because Blessed Pedro Calungsod is one of their patron saints, together with San Lorenzo Ruiz. As National President of Laiko, this representation felt the need to devote this column to him, so people will know more about him. The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines has created the Executive Council for the canonization of Blessed Pedro Calungsod. It is chaired by His Eminence Ricardo Cardinal Vidal, co-chaired by Most Rev. Archbishop Jose Palma. Among the members of the Council is Most Rev. Julito Cortes, Auxiliary Bishop of Cebu, chair of the Commission on National Celebration in Manila. Rev. Fr. Marvin Mejia is the head of the National Secretariat while Monsignor Dennis Villarojo is the Chair of the Commission in Cebu Celebration. Who is Blessed Pedro Calungsod? Most helpful are the information about him which we gathered from his website; we are reproducing the data here, with some edits: Pedro was a young boy from the Visayas; he was a catechist, who went with the Spanish Jesuit missionaries from the Philippines to the Ladrones Islands, later named the Marianas, in western Pacific in 1668 to evangelize the Chamorros. Despite the hardships in the island where the boy catechist and the missionaries crossed wild jungles, climbed high cliffs, suffered severe typhoons, lack of provisions, they continued on with their mission, to evangelize the natives; they were blessed with many conversions. Envious of the popularity of the missionaries among the natives, a Chinese Quack spread the talk that the baptismal water of the missionaries was poisonous. Since some of the sickly infants who were baptized died, many believed him. The sorcerers and young male prostitutes began
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Local News
CBCP Monitor
February 27 - March 11, 2012
Vol. 16 No. 5
Building homes for typhoon victims may take some timeCRS official
FOR both government and private agencies helping typhoon victims get back to their feet again, building new homes for disaster victims does not come easy. Even as government, faith-based groups and non-government organizations have been seriously looking into the problems faced by some 5,800 families in need of relocation, building new and safer homes for them may take some time to accomplish, according to Joe Curry, country representative of Catholic Relief Services. Our efforts are focused on the Sendong typhoon victims emergency response and recovery since December and will continue to work with the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro and Xavier University until June (2012), Curry told CBCPNews. While the government has appropriated a substantial amount for the victims shelter requirements and private donors have already come forward to help, land acquisition remains a problem. But though it may take time for the government and various agencies to build homes Curry said it will be eventually solved. He said its good for Xavier University to have donated five hectares for housing purposes but only 500 families would be accommodated in the property. We have 5,800 families in need of relocation so it may take some time, Curry added. He explained while a piece of land may be bought, it has to be prepared for housing, and building homes may also take sometime. In some disaster areas building new homes take at least two years as in the case of typhoon victims in Isabela province in northern Luzon. Curry said the Catholic Relief Services in the Philippines is into the third phase of their assistance after focusing on water and sanitation concerns in evacuation centers. He said water supply was cut-off due to the flash floods but has now been restored. They later went into a clean-up phase in certain areas in Cagayan de Oro and has been successful with the volunteers from the archdiocese after completing over 8,000 work days in the clean-up and debris removal and now moving into transitional shelter. Curry said while there are a lot of agencies and groups extending assistance to the typhoon and flood victims, close coordination among them has maximized every form of assistance intended for the local residents. He added that the CRS has served 3,000 families with their basic water requirements, 500 others gained from casual work or food-for-work program while several thousand families have already benefitted from their clean-up activities. We look forward to serving 1,200 families with transitional homes worth at least P14,000 each, Curry explained. The government has estimated some 5,800 families are in need of relocation. There are 1,800 families in evacuation centers and 1,000 families living in tents in the peripheries of the city proper. Curry said while they also wanted to extend their help to Iligan City residents, their budget and donations from partners have limited their activities to Cagayan de Oro City. Asked of the difference between Filipino local government officials and other governments provincial governors and mayors, Curry said the barangay captains and mayors have been most helpful. The local governments provide immediate response to disaster victims faster than their other ASEAN counterparts, he said. However, he added that local government officials should do what they could to help their constituents return to their normal lives. (Melo M. Acua)
Farmers group asks Aquino Bishop to students: Keep out of frats to implement CARPER in full
FARMERS under the Task Force Mapalad (TFM) asked the Palace to shower them genuine love by implementing land distribution nationwide, quickly. In a statement sent to CBCPNews, TFM said that as they wish President Benigno C. Aquino III to find the love of his life, they too wish that Mr. Aquino would also give them the love of their lifethe land that they till. It is the only thing that matters to our forefathers, ourselves, our children and our childrens children, a part of TFM statement read. TFM-Negros president Alberto Jayme said, they are not asking too much but only asserts their right to land, which actually enshrined in the Constitution and the primary reason that the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law was extended. He also said that the Department of Agrarian Reforms (DAR) performance in terms of land acquisition is quite dismal. Based on the DARs latest records, in 2011 it has acquired and distributed at least 41 percent of all CARPable lands, with five percent in Negros; 32 percent in Davao; 25 percent in North Bukidnon; and nine percent in South Bukidnon. Jayme also said that the farmers have nothing left to lose as they already risked
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and even sacrificedtheir lives in the name of agrarian reform. Meanwhile, the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines National Secretariat for Social Action, Justice and Peace (CBCPNASSA), one of the primary movers of extending the CARP implementation with reforms, had reaffirmed its support to the farmers by asking the President to devote his time and energy in eliminating the roots of social conflict all over the country, that is, the control of the few to the agricultural and industrial lands. In a Mass he officiated at the picket line of the farmers from TFM in DAR compound last February 14, CBCP-NASSA chief and Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo has reminded the President not to waste much time and money impeaching one man, that is Chief Justice Renato C. Corona, when the majority of the Filipino people are experiencing hunger, poverty and hopelessness. He also scored the President in focusing on the squabbles of the few, while he seems to neglect the implementation of CARPER or the Comprehensive Agrarian Reforms Extension with Reforms that will benefit more than half million longoppressed Filipino farmers. (Noel Sales Barcelona/CBCPNews)
A CATHOLIC bishop advised students not to join fraternities and sororities especially those with dangerous initiations. Bishop Deogracias Iiguez of Caloocan said the recent death of San Beda law student Marvin Reglos from an alleged hazing incident showed risks in joining fraternities. He acknowledged that maybe not all initiations are dangerous, but stressed that enough have already been publicized to let the
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public know many are not safe. If an organization has things like hazing, (students) should avoid it, Iiguez told Manila archdiocese-run Radyo Veritas. We are also appealing to the youth to carefully examine organizations that they want to be with, added the head of the Committee on Public Affairs of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippine. Retired Archbishop Oscar Cruz believes that all fraternities can have
the potential to be great and can affect community positively with the right leaders. Having a fraternity is not bad because its a brotherhood but let it not come to the extent that someone is hurt or killed, Cruz said. Investigations are ongoing into the death of Reglos, 25, who succumbed from multiple wounds and bruises obtained from an alleged hazing rites of Lambda Rho fraternity. Another Church official,
meanwhile, called on the government to regulate fraternities and sororities in schools. It is sad that this incidence was committed by young men with brilliant minds but with brutal hearts, said Fr. Conegundo Garganta of the CBCPs Commission on Youth. Thus, I believe, the government must by all means exact the law that will regulate fraternities and sororities to secure safety of students, he said. (CBCPNews)
see beyond the external meaning of life, he added. The prelate also invited the young faithful to gather their friends and attend together summer camps and leadership conferences being organized by the parishes near them and youth organizations in their community to make their summer vacation more
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meaningful. While it is great to be with friends on vacation, it is also fulfilling to be with them in attending summer camps, youth conferences or Bible study classes, which are alternative activities this summer where they can even learn a lot from, he added. (YouthPinoy)
Immigrants from various countries, including Filipinos trooped over the weekend to Largo Castello and marched the streets leading to the Prefecture near the crowded San Babila, tourists favorite shopping district. The protesters led by the Confederazione Unitaria di Base (CUB), braved the near-freezing temperature to show their vehement opposition to the new rule which they described as quite unfair and unacceptable. One of the protest leaders identified as Baye Diouf, president of CeSaim (Centri per lo Sviluppo dell Associazionismo e dellImprenditoria dei Migrante) said the governments decision to impose taxes on immigrants is sheer discrimination. All migrants who renew their permit to stay must now pay more than 100 Euros. We say this is discrimination because the only country in the world that creates tax only for migrants is Italy. So today, we are making this manifestation, Diouf was quoted as saying.
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He added Italys economic crisis must not be shouldered by the migrants alone. New fees, exemptions Immigrants applying for the first time for a Permit of Stay or those renewing a permit valid for a period from three months to a year must pay 80 Euros effective January 30 this year. A fee of 100 Euros will be charged immigrants applying for either Permit of Stay or renewal permit valid for a period ranging from one year to a maximum of two years. Immigrants applying for long-term residence permit (Carta di Soggiorno) are required to pay 200 Euros. These fees exclude the 27.50 Euros for the electronic Permit of Stay, 14.62 Euros for the revenue stamp and another 30 Euros for the postal fee. Migrants who apply for a Permit of Stay for two years will have to spend 127.50 Euros. The new tax is not applicable to mi-
nor children, including those arriving in Italy for family reunification, those arriving for medical treatment and persons accompanying them. However, Permit of Stay for political asylum, humanitarian and subsidiary protection, updates and conversion are not taxed. It was learned half of the amount about to be generated from the new tax will be used to finance the deportation of irregular immigrants while the other half will be utilized by the Ministry of Home Affairs to maintain public security, to fund Immigrants Offices at the Prefectures and to implement the integration agreement (accord di integrazione). Sit-ins have begun last February 10 in Udine, Padova, Milan, Bergamo, Genova, Napoli, Reggio, Calabria, Palermo, Siracusa, Agrigento, Catania, Mesina, Trapani, Enni and Caltanisetta. In Rome, the sit-in will be held at Piazza San Apostoli. (Ruel de Lunas) ing the interest of foreign investors, enriching the few while sacrificing the interest of the poor, Pabillo stated. He also denounced the injustice and human rights violation inflicted on the local communities with the construction of projects, including absence of consultation and consent of the affected people, legalized land grabbing and eviction, and violations of various national legislations, such as CARPER law, IPRA and the Local Government Code of 1991. (CBCPNews/NASSA)
and caused the severe siltation of its riverbed. The outlying barangays of Taglimao, Canitoan, Iponan, Bulua, and Barra have experienced the widespread overflow of this river. Other tributaries affecting the barangays of Cugman and Agusan also need to be safeguarded. It is in this light that we support the implementation of a total logging ban and a moratorium of mining activities that disturb the topsoil. There are reports that some of these mining activities in the hinterlands of Lumbia and Dansolihon parishes involve large-scale dynamiting and excavation of the soil, which are then loaded onto dump trucks to ports for shipping to another country. Inevitably, the loose soil from the excavations is washed down the river. Much of the sad experience of the flood survivors was coping not only with the sudden rise of water but also with the admixture of thick mud and debris that added density and pressure against any object along their path. Aerial photos of some of these mining sites indicate the irreversible damage to the environment already done by these extractive activities. It is unconscionable for city officials to adopt a businessas-usual attitude for mining permits to continue. At the very least multi-sectoral monitoring teams should be allowed to verify on the ground the effects of these mining activitieswhether small-scale or large-scale. We have already experienced the disastrous effects of severe flooding on the citys households in January 2009 and December 2011. Invoking the precautionary principle, it is the mining firms that have the burden of proof in showing that their activities are not detrimental to the common good. We likewise need a full disclosure of the identities of these mining firms, their allotted areas, and contribution to the local economy. And this constitutes our third major concern for Good Governance understood in terms of an active and participatory citizenry on the one hand and a responsive government on the other hand. Transparency and accountability are hallmarks of
good governance. Questions from several quarters have been raised about the lack of coordination among relief agencies, especially during the first few days after the calamity. The preoccupation with political party affiliations has restricted the offer of more assistance to the affected communities. There are now reports that even the manifestations of civil dissent have been stifled. The Gising Barangay Movement has pointed out the critical role of barangay and city officials as the first line of defense in extending assistance to the flood victims. The complete listing of sitio residents could have facilitated the identification of affected families. Disaster preparedness and long-term city planning could have mitigated the dire consequences of allowing households to stay along the rivers own waterways. The ongoing tasks of identifying and developing relocation sites for permanent housing have to be done in an impartial and non-politicized manner. These are issues being raised today by concerned citizens. The archdiocese itself as a church institution does not engage in partisan politics. The pulpit should be used to proclaim the Word of God, and not the words of men. On the other hand, we appeal to both the authorities and all Cagayanons to allow the democratic process to prevail in the responsible exercise of the basic freedoms of speech, assembly and participation in public affairs. We encourage the Catholic laity, including our religious lay organizations, to form widening circles of discernment to discuss, pray over, and address together these pending issues that involve environmental justice and the common good as well as the sustainable development of our city. Following the legacy of St. Augustine, patron of the city and the archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro, the City of Man has to be built in consonance with the moral principles of the City of God. (A homily delivered during the Opening Mass of the Annual Convention of Diocesan Clergy of Mindanao, 13 February 2012)
environmental destruction that comes with this socalled development, he stressed. He said that the right to progress, insofar as community development is concerned, becomes acceptable only if it is inspired by moral values that consider the integral development of people, and if the advancement of the few will not be a cause of the suffering of many. Pabillo also stressed that if the lands, covering around 11,900 hectares will be appropriated for the economic zone, many
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indigenous peoples in San Ildefonso Peninsula will be displaced from their ancestral domains. As the project will convert wide tracks of irrigated and productive lands in Casiguran for other purposes, the farmers will be deprived of their livelihood and food security in the province will be jeopardized, the bishop said. The fisher folk s will likewise be displaced from their source of income when the coastal areas will be populated with high-end luxury
resorts and facilities, like the airport now being constructed, Pabillo further said. We are one with the residents, indigenous peoples, farmers and fisherfolks we met in Bianoan, Casiguran and Disigisaw, San Ildefenso and Cozo in Aurora, in calling for the repeal of RA9490/10083 that allows the Aurora Pacific Ecozone and Freeport Authority (or APECO) to increase its scope of coverage from 500 to 12,427 hectares, and to grant extensive powers to private enterprise clearly uphold-
husband in order to keep her secret, he divorced her and her daughters ran away and got into drugs. It was when she had a nervous breakdown that the psychiatrist told her to go to a Christian counselor. It was a pastor on his fourth stage cancer that gave her so much of his time in helping her return to the Lord that she finally recovered.
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Luana and Kay courageously speak of their secrets in order for more women (and men), to realize the evils of abortion and its devastating effects not only on the dead baby and a wounded mother, but the long term effects on the father of the baby as well, which is often more promiscuity as they see women as objects of
sex and the use of violence and drinking in order to numb their own guilt and pains. Luana and Kay cry outWhen will the lying to women stop? All of us are affected by each abortion in the world. Let us all unite in stopping this evil soon! Read the reflections of Luana and Kay on their own experiences. officers and trustees, led by their National Spiritual Director Most Rev. Jesse Mercado, Bishop of Paraaque, for a successful strategic planning held at the Canossa House of Spirituality in Tagaytay. Facilitators were Zeny Capistrano and Jin Reyes. Birthday greetings to Laiko Trustees Gigi Bautista, Mario Cruz and Joe Tale; birthday greetings also to Fr. Tim Guarin, Marie Masangkay and Bea Lim of the Diocese of Kalookan and Tess Lara of San Ildefonso Parish.
*** To start the devotion to Blessed Pedro Calungsod, we quote here the Prayer for Special Intentions to Blessed Pedro Calungsod, which we also gathered from his website: My Lord, in your grace, you have shown through your servant, Beato Pedro Calungsod, the sublime prize of following you. Through his martyrdom, you have shown us that age and race will not hinder us from serving and loving you. His youthful fervor in defending the faith earned him the
title to be called blessed. Thus, in confidence, I humbly call unto him to pray with me, and to intercede for this urgent favour (make a request) and that through his glorious life, I may try to emulate him, together with Mother Mary, who have without reserve said yes to your will. Amen. *** Twenty-eight years ago, the CBCP issued a very strong Pastoral Letter which denounced the massive fraud during the 1986 Snap Election. Thereafter,
the military and the civilian, led by then Gen. Fidel Ramos and Defense Sec. Juan Ponce Enrile, took a stand to defend freedom. The rest is history, EDSA People Power Revolution. Let us remember that the legacy of EDSA should not be forgotten. The right to freedom is not absolute; it has the corresponding responsibility and obligation, lest chaos and anarchy prevail. *** Congratulations to Laiko
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 16 No. 5
February 27 - March 11, 2012
Diocesan News
JARO, ILOILO CityThe National Shrine of Our Lady of Candles in Jaro archdiocese is forming a migrants ministry that would initiate projects and spearhead pastoral programs to take care of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). Jaro Auxiliary Bishop Gerardo Alminaza made the announcement in his weekly column in Candle Light, the official publication of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Candles, as the Church marked National Migrants Sunday, February 26. The bishop noted that Iloilo ranks 20th nationwide and 2nd in the Visayas region among the top 50 providers of OFWs. The increasing number of Visayans leaving abroad for work has challenged the Archdiocese of Jaro, particularly the parish of Our Lady of Candles to strengthen its migrants ministry. Alminaza observed that in some Philippine dioceses with active migrant ministries, the Holy Mass is regularly celebrated for OFW families, fellowship and other religious activities are organized for their spiritual advancement, teachers and guidance counselors in Catholic schools teach children to be aware of and value the sacrifices of their migrant parents. I personally believe that this ministry is of great importance and demands our urgent response as a caring local church community, he said. I want this ministry to be one of our parishs priorities. Let us take a proactive response against the disadvantages of migration to the family, the domestic church, and the basic unit of society, Alminaza said. Despite high remittances and improved economic life it brings, the psycho-social costs of migration are way too high. Among the psycho social effects are infidelity of spouses, breakdown of families, early marriages among migrants children, incest, gambling, threatened family
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relationships, materialism and various types of vices are experienced by migrants and their dependents. Following the theme of this years Migrants Sunday, Migration and the New Evangelization, the parishs OFW ministry hopes to empower migrants and their families as missionaries of faith. Alminaza encouraged his parishioners, especially family members of OFWs, to take an active part in this ministry as a concrete application of the 2012 Lenten message of Pope Benedict XVI: Let us be concerned for each other, to stir a response in love and good works. (Heb 10:24). May we overcome through our Lenten discipline, the spiritual anesthesia which numbs us to the suffering of others as illustrated by the parable of the Good Samaritan (cf. Lk 10: 30-32) and of the rich man, Dives, and the poor man, Lazarus (Lk 16:19), the Bishop stressed. (Fr. Mickey Cardenas)
The number of Visayans leaving abroad to seek for greener pastures prompted the parish of Our Lady of Candles in the Archdiocese of Jaro to reinforce its migrants ministry by providing formation programs to OFWs and their families left behind.
Briefing
1,400 youth join Bacolods annual Dagyaw event
Carrying placards, students from Catholic and public schools in Vigan join in procession to promote true love and dignity of life, February 14.
with messages that expressed their deep respect for Love and Life while praying the holy rosary. The activity culminated with a Eucharistic celebration presided by Nueva Segovia Archbishop Ernesto Salgado together with Auxiliary Bishop David William Antonio as homilist and concelebrated by eight other priests. In his homily, Bishop Anto-
nio explained briefly but emphatically the Catholic Bishops Conferences 6-point call to strongly reject the RH agenda and choose life. Although not around, Ilocos Sur Congressman Ryan Singson left a message of support which was read to the participants before the final blessing was given. Singson made clear his position that his experiences as a
husband and father to his little daughter are more than enough reasons to make firm his stand that he is Pro- Life. He claimed that even before he became a congressman, he was already a staunch believer in the dignity of marriage and held a high respect for life. The women religious said they continue to inform and educate the people in the archdiocese on the dignity of life and the fallacies of reproductive health bill. They said the event will be followed by formation sessions to be given to faculty, students and members of mandated organizations with the hope of forming a core group to continue their advocacy towards the promotion of deep respect for Life. On Feb. 27, an initial session was conducted at the auditorium of St. Paul College of Ilocos Sur with Dra. Telly Somera as resource speaker. (Sr. Cecilia Sto. Tomas, SPC)
CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
BACOLOD CityAround 1,400 young people flocked the stadium of University of Negros Occidental Recoletos for a night of praise and worship in this years Dagyawan annual gathering organized by the Diocesan Commission on Youth on Feb. 18-19. Already in its 8th year, the annual event is geared in affirming the youth of their importance in the Church, according to Diocesan youth director Fr. Arnold Deletina. Dagyaw has invited the young people of the diocese to stand up and be recognized, to come forward and take their rightful place in the Church that often struggles to enter into a living dialogue with the young people, said Deletina. (Epi Ma. Kassandra Dajao)
Guingona bats for a comprehensive disaster management plan for Mindanao
CAGAYAN DE ORO CitySenator Teofisto TG Guingona III batted for the crafting of a comprehensive disaster management plan for Mindanao, noting that what happens in one place in the island affects other places. It is now time to have a Mindanao island-wide disaster management plan. Disaster and calamities such as typhoons and storms no longer spare Mindanao. What happened in one place also affect others, he said at the sideline of the Mindanao Disaster Risk Reduction Summit which opened here, Feb. 18. Guingona, who calls the province of Bukidnon home, said that the environment in Mindanao is interconnected and as such, one citys or provinces disaster management plan should be related to the plan of its neighbors. (Bong D. Fabe)
Chevron must be held accountable on La Union oil spill
public health centers nationwide to make them accessible to the poor. RH bill treats poor as merely lustful beings Parang napakahilig lang talaga sa sex ng mga mahihirapganoon ang treatment ng RH Bill sa poor. Kasi parang sinasabi ng mga proponents, kaya mahirap ang poor kasi marami sila, at marami sila dahil mahilig sila sa sex. Kaya para maiwasan ang pagdami nila ay hindi dapat sila manganak, kaya contraception dapat (Its like the poor are nothing but sex-fixatedthats the way the RH bill is treating the poor. The proponents seem to be saying that the poor are impoverished because they are many, and that they are many because they are always having sex. So to avoid swelling their numbers, poor women shouldnt give birthhence,
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they should contracept), observed Jose Descallar, Buhay Party List staff. He pointed out that everybody schooled or notis capable of practising self-mastery and understanding matters such as dignity, sobriety, and nature of sexuality. And the poor have the same dignity as the rich and elite, and to think otherwise would be discriminatory and unchristian, Descallar said. Calls for the passage of the RH bill from poor themselves dont necessarily mean anything significant, he said. Hindi naman nila naiintindihan talaga [ang bill]. Nabasa ba nila yun? (They dont really understand the bill. Have they read it?) Descallar pointed out, adding that they are unlikely to have read it, as is the case for majority of Filipinos. That the bill is not written in the vernacular makes
understanding it more difficult for them, he continued. Poor people cant learn? Those who reject the RH bill also say that the poor should even be offended by what the government assumes them to beincapable of learning and of controlling their impulses. It is an insult to Filipinos, especially to our poor, because it appears that we have no capacity to learn the more virtuous path of responsible parenthood. The insult is further aggravated by making this bill an excuse for our governments lack of vision and lack of will to eradicate poverty by enabling people to help themselves through proper education, health and job creation, dentist Ricardo Boncan pointed out. (CBCP for Life)
ANTIPOLO CityThe Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas wants Chevron be held accountable for the 10,000 liters (2,641.72 US gallons) of automative diesel oil (ADO) spilled at the Poro Point Pier, in San Fernando City, La Union last February 21. Despite the thorough cleanup of the oil mess, Pamalakaya said that the oil spill could have affected the quality of the water in the area, that would endanger fishes and other marine species there. (Noel Sales Barcelona)
Pasig to conduct diocesan youth ministry fellowship
PASIG CityThe Pasig Diocesan Youth Ministry (PDYM) will conduct a youth fellowship on March 10, Saturday, from 4 to 5 p.m. at the Youth Formation Center of the John Paul II building in Pasig City. Ella Alfaro, events head of PDYM said that the priority objective of the fellowship is to equip youth ministers become more effective and qualified in serving the young. She added that the event hopes to gather youth ministers from different youth ministry setting like parishes, schools, and organization/movements, and come together for a common experience that will lead to a more cohesive and unified diocesan youth ministry. (Jandel Posion)
Seafarers group gathers 6K signatures for MLC ratification
be issued announcing the cards reloaded. The fuel subsidy program, which started in May last year, is an interim measure of the government to cushion the impact of high fuel prices particularly to the public utility jeepney operators. Unjust The Church People-Workers Solidarity (CWS) has earlier called on the government to listen to the demands of the transport sectors and worked for the realization of the common good. Oil price has increased more than 20 times since January 2011,
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and this is causing added burden not only to drivers and operators but to workers, peasants, fisherfolks, and their families, said Jaro Auxiliary Bishop Gerardo Alminaza, one of the CWS convenors. Transport groups claimed that spiraling oil price increases is a result of the monopoly of the Big 3 (Shell, Petron and Caltex) and the governments deregulation policy. Ibon, an independent research institution, said that increases in oil prices are driving inflation. In a situation where workers receive very little wages, the unabated oil price hikes erode the value of our workers income
since prices of basic commodities also shoot up. The effect is far worse for workers whose jobs and incomes are both irregular, added Alminaza. The bishop also expressed concern on reports that both oil companies and the government are raking in billions in profits and revenues at the expense of the ordinary consumers. According to Ibon Foundation, the profits of the oil firms since 2001 have totaled to P141.7 billion in 2010. The Philippine government has also been getting revenues of P48 billion pesos annually or a total of P239.6 billion in the last five years due to the 12 percent
VAT on oil, according to a study by Ibon. Profit at the expense of the poor is immoral and unjust. The Church is very clear in its teachings that the well-being of our toiling brothers and sisters should come first before profit, said Alminaza. Government must regulate oil industry to moderate the greed of private oil firms. The welfare of the majority must be prioritized, he also said. Alminaza said the government must heed the calls for the review of the oil deregulation policy and for the removal of VAT on oil products.
ANTIPOLO City, Feb. 26, 2012The seafarers welfare group, International Seafarers Action Center (ISAC) Foundation, Inc. is scheduled to transmit, anytime, to concerned government agencies more than 6,000 signatures they gathered to have the 2006 Maritime Labor Conventions (MLC 06) ratified. The group is hoping that the signature campaign would help concerned agencies make-up their minds and start the ratification process of the said important legal instrument. (Noel Sales Barcelona)
Contractual labor to blame on sudden rise of unemployment in PH
How and where can we find them? Perhaps, churchmen should closely monitor the pertinent government offices that process their papers, getting data like names, address, etc., and start figuring out how to get in touch with them. We should not wait for them to come to church, but rather, with delicacy and naturalness, we go to them. Another basic source of information are the local parishes, chapels and chaplaincies that have direct contact with the faithful. Once someone is known to go abroad to work or to migrate, the churchmen should already start to act. Do we already have agencies to take care of this? Direct, personal contact is of course indispensable, but the supporting structures should also be available. Without
duplicating what government agencies and other groups can do, the Church should focus on what her distinctive contribution isspiritual assistance. Ministering to these migrants and overseas workers requires different strategies. A more pro-active approach is needed. As much as possible, we have to know the concrete details of their personal and family circumstances as well as their spiritual conditions. We have to go down from the generics, and from theories and principles. The idea is to spiritually prepare the person planning to migrate or work abroad. He should be reminded of his Christian duties and as much as possible help him to live them. He should be told of what to expect in his new country of destination.
Then we have to see what to do with the families left behind. They also need to be taken care of. Obviously they can be made part of the general attention given to everyone, but some distinctive assistance should be lent to them, given their special situation. There are many things that can and should be brought up for consideration by everyone and especially by the Church leaders. Hopefully special events like Year of Missions, Year of Faith, Day of Migrants, etc., can occasions these considerations. We also have to think of what to do with foreigners who are coming to our country in droves, like the Koreans. We should never forget that all our efforts here should be based on prayer, sacrifice and genuine personal sanctity.
QUEZON CityAnakpawis Partylist blamed contractual labor on the sudden rise of unemployment in the Philippines, as shown by the latest survey of the private statistics firm, Social Weather Stations. Anakpawis executive president Joel Maglungsod in a statement said that the 24 percent unemployment rate is but a proof of the failed labor policies being implemented by the Benigno C. Aquino III administration, which includes contractual labor. The SWS survey states that 10 percent of the labor force lost jobs in 2011 due to retrenchments, seven percent of which were due to unrenewed contract. Victims of company closure and termination represent the two and one percent of the unemployed in 2011, respectively, the survey said. (Noel Sales Barcelona)
HK OFWs welcome suspension of OEC fee requirement
ANTIPOLO CityThe United Filipinos in Hong Kong (Unifil-HK) celebrates their initial victory over the issue of overseas employment certificate (OEC) for Filipino workers there. In a statement, Unifil chair Dolores Balladres said that Labor Attach in Hong Kong Manuel Roldan had announced, in a forum organized by overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in HK last February 12, that presenting proof of payment from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) would no longer be needed in asking for the OEC. Clearly, this is a victory of the campaign of OFW groups in HK to remove pre-conditional fee requirements to get an OEC. We do, however, want it to be more official and urge the DOLE or the POLO to issue an order stating such, said Balladres. (Noel Sales Barcelona)
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TO facilitate busy people to experience a spiritual exercise during the season of Lent in the midst of their hectic lives, the Catholic Church is offering an online retreat. Organized by the Media Office of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines, the virtual retreat is a new feature of this years CBCP Visita Iglesia Online. But the Church said that an online retreat is no substitute for spending a few days in a Lenten atmosphere; although the online retreat is meant for people who, for one reason or another, cannot do that. Msgr. Pedro Quitorio, CBCP media director, stressed that making a retreat still makes demands on the individual. According to him, the Church can provide the material, but it is still the person, who must make the retreat that will be made available online starting the first week of Lent.
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 16 No. 5
Markings
APPOINTED. Pope Benedict XVI has named Dumaguete Bishop John Du, 57, as the new archbishop of Palo. Du will now take the title of Archbishop-designate ahead of his official installation soon, succeeding Archbishop Jose Palma who was transferred to the Archdiocese of Cebu in October 2010. Papal nuncio to the Philippines Archbishop Guiseppe Pinto relayed the news of the Dus appointment to the Media Office of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines. Du was born on Oct. 18, 1954, in Bantayan, Cebu. He was ordained priest on June 1, 1979. In 1997, Pope John Paul II appointed him Auxiliary Bishop of Cebu. He was appointed Bishop of Dumaguete on April 21, 2001. Currently, the archbishop-elect is CBCPs treasurer and chairman of the CBCP Pension Plan. CELEBRATED. Sr. M. Victoria Joson of the Religious of the Good Shepherd (RGS) celebrated her golden jubilee of profession on February 19, 2012 in Maryridge, Tagaytay City. Joson entered the Postulancy on September 14, 1961, received in the Novitiate on April 24, 1962, and made her first profession of vows on April 24, 1964 in Los Angeles, USA. She had her final profession on May 11, 1969 in Quezon City. She served as coordinator of St. Euphrasia, group mother at St. Domitillas, counsellor/teacher in Maryridge and Heart of Mary Villa. She also served as a missionary to Hongkong, Mauritius, Angers and Paris in France, and to Genoa and Milan in Italy. Her ministry includes ministering to adolescent girls, migrant women, engagement in community development and pastoral work. CELEBRATED. A community of lay consecrated women known as the Emmaus Dialogue Community (EDC) has celebrated its 25th year of foundation last February 8. Founded in 1987 as a Catholic lay private association of women, the members dedicate their lives for the mission of dialogue and peace between Christians and Muslims. The community was officially given recognition as a lay association by the Archdiocese of Zamboanga in 1996. The EDC has the Beatitudes as their Rule of life, taking inspiration from the Biblical story of the two disciples who walked with Jesus on the road to Emmaus. CELEBRATED. Heart of Mary Villa marked its 55th year of foundation last February 8, 2012 with a Eucharistic Celebration led by Fr. Jose Mario Francisco, SJ at the Good Shepherd Chapel in Quezon City. The occasion was graced by the presence of adopting parents, their children, former residents of HMV, Good Shepherd Sisters and mission partners. Until 1957, the Heart of Mary Villa was known as the Charter Residence established by the Good Shepherd Sisters (RGS) within the property of the Archdiocese of Manila as a haven, refuge and home for unwed mothers. On May 2, 1957, the building was inaugurated and blessed by then Manila Archbishop Rufino J. Santos and the place was called Heart of Mary Villa. The institution provides accompaniment and care for unmarried pregnant women and facilitates adoption of infants and babies. INAUGURATED. The Vincentian-run Adamson University unveiled a commemorative mural at the Saint Vincent (SV) building to mark the institutions 80th founding anniversary, Feb. 11. Unveiling the mural were university president Fr. Gregorio Baaga Jr., C.M. and former university president Fr. Jimmy Belita, C.M., together with university officials and invited guests. Each panel of the mural depicts significant chapters and figures in Adamsonthe era of the Adamson family, when they first established the school; the era of the Vincentian priests and brothers, after the turnover of ownership in 1964; and the image of St. Vincent de Paul, founder of the congregation of the Vincentian priests and brothers and now AdUs patron saint. Artist Derick Macutay who was commissioned by the university started working on the mural last December 2011 after doing research and presenting several studies using oil on canvass to bring to life AdUs colorful history. Organized by the 80th Founding Anniversary Socio-Cultural Committee through University Museum and Archives director Mr. Raul Agner, the unveiling preceded the AdUs 78th Grand Alumni Homecoming. DIED. Sr. M. Carmel Medalla RGS (Carmelita Milano Medalla), 92, passed away on February 19, 2012 after 61 years as a Good Shepherd nun. Born on December 17, 1919, Medalla made her first profession of vows on September 8, 1952 in Los Angeles and her final profession of vows on April 24, 1956 in Quezon City. She was assigned as a teacher in Baguio from 1952 until 1965 and together with her companions established the apostolate with the indigenous peoples in the Cordillera. She served as local leader of the community from 1966 to 1972. She was later reassigned in Sta. Ana, Manila to minister with urban families through the Kaunlaran Multi-Purpose Center.
among others. They have to study and prepare for the rigors of daily requirements. They have to be physically and mentally ready for those, he added, citing common complaints of past WYD pilgrims.
Garganta admitted that there are still no requirements set yet for applications to be pilgrims for the WYD, adding that no communication has been made yet between the ECY and the WYD 2013 organizers in Brazil. (YouthPinoy)
www.wydcentral.org
ECMI Chairman and Maasin Bishop Precioso Cantillas welcomes families of migrants who joined the celebration of National Migrants Sunday in Cebu City, February 26.
Filipinos to be deployed overseas annually. Dubbed by the government as modern-day heroes, OFWs keep the Philippine economy afloat with billions of remittances sent annually. But ECMI also pointed out the psycho-social effects of migration to both OFWs and the families they have left behind.
The psycho-social effects include being caught up in civil war, victimized by drug smuggling, affected by natural calamities, and execution. Despite the danger they face abroad, they would rather stay [there] rather than go home without a means of livelihood, ECMI stated. ECMI said the only way to stop Filipinos from leaving the country
is for government to provide better livelihood alternative at home. Until this is addressed and achieved, the Church has a moral obligation to guide and prepare them in their migration journey. Celebrated every first Sunday of Lent, this years National Migrants Sunday was organized by the Archdiocese of Cebu. (Ronalyn Regino/CBCPNews)
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CBCP Monitor
Vol. 16 No. 5
February 27 - March 11, 2012
Pastoral Concerns
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Teach them to observe all that I have commanded you. (Matthew 28:20)
A Pastoral Letter of the CBCP on the occasion of the 400 Years of Catholic Education in the Philippines
Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. (Matthew 28:19-20)
DEAr People of God, Go, make disciples, baptize, teach. These are the operative words in the command of Jesus before he left the apostles. From this comes the evangelizing mission of the Church; a mission grounded on the mystery of the Holy Trinity. To the Church is given the power to preach and to teach; a task that has been accepted by the apostles and handed on to the Fathers of the Church, Doctors of the Church, philosophers, theologians and missionaries. The Church faithfully fulfills this mandate she has received from her divine founder of proclaiming the mystery of salvation to all men and of restoring all things in Christ. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations . . .Teach them all I have commanded you. These words of Jesus resonate once again as we take stock of 400 years of Catholic Education in the Philippines. In view of this, I invite you, dear brothers and sisters, to a closer look at the evangelizing mission of the church made possible by Catholic Education. A Brief Survey of Catholic Education in the Philippines This same occasion allows us to look back on the beginnings of Catholic Education in our country. We recall the very first school opened by the Augustinian missionaries in Cebu after their arrival in 1565 and the initiative of the Franciscans to provide primary instruction upon their arrival in 1578. * We recall Bishop Domingo Salazar, O.P. who in the year 1581 expressed to the King of Spain the need for a college to educate priests, which later opened in 1596 as the Jesuit-run College of San Ignacio in Manila. Likewise, Colegio de San Ildefonso in Cebu founded by the Spanish Jesuits in 1598 * We remember the year 1611, 400 years ago, when Archbishop Miguel de Benavides, O.P., and the Dominican Fathers established the University of Santo Tomas; and in 1632, the Colegio de San Juan de Letran both in Intramuros, Manila. We rejoice with UST, the oldest University, in the celebration of its 400 years of continued existence and service in the field of Catholic Education. * We remember the year 1632, when Colegio de Sta. Isabel, the first womens college, was opened. This college is now run by the Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul who arrived in 1862. We remember also how in 1868 they went to Naga City to open a college for girls, and to establish the very first Normal School for Women in the Philippines on September 18, 1872 at the instance of Bishop Francisco Gainza, O.P. * We remember the year 1859, some 150 years ago, when the Jesuits returned and opened the school called the Escuela Municipal de Manila located right across the San Ignacio Church in Intramuros. This was the very first Ateneo campus. * We remember the year 1862, 150 years ago when the Vincentian Fathers came to the Philippines by virtue of the 1852 Royal Decree of Queen Isabel II of Spain in order to administer the Conciliar seminaries of Manila, Naga City, Cebu City, Iloilo City and Vigan and to take care of the religious and scientific instruction of the diocesan seminarians and lay students in Colegio Seminarios. * We remember the year 1904, 107 years ago, when the first Sisters of St. Paul de Chartres opened the first Paulinian school in Dumaguete, Negros Oriental. * We remember the year 1906, 105 years ago, when the first four German Benedictine sisters and one novice from Tutzing, Germany founded St. Scholasticas College. * We remember the year 1911, 100 years ago, the Brothers of the Christian Schools, known as La Salle Brothers, opened their first school in the Philippines on General Luna Street in Manila. * We also remember the beaterios which likewise provided formation and some instruction for girls. * We look back also 70 years ago, the year 1941, when these Catholic education institutions organized itself into an association called the CEAP (Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines) to be able to collectively respond not only to urgent educational issues but also societal issues. CEAP was born upon the inspiration of Bishop Michael J. O Doherty with Msgr. Jose Jovellanos as the first President. Without doubt, Catholic Education in the Philippines has a long and rich history. Many of our heroes and significant personages in the church and country are a proof of this. It is not an exaggeration to say that Catholic Education laid the foundations of education in our country. Thus, we cannot but remember with gratitude the heroic missionaries who begun the task of education in the faith. Their contribution was not limited to Catholic Education but included even the other sciences and disciplines. We may cite for example their ethnographic and scientific studies, the grammar and catechetical books like the Doctrina Cristiana which not only instructed us with the Church doctrines but also preserved our dialects. Such is no mean contribution to our society and culture. Indeed, at great cost and sacrifice our forebears were inspired by the teaching of the Church to establish schools which enriched mankind and responded to the needs of time and place. (Ex Corde #65) The Nature of Christian Education It is undeniable that today we benefit from these foundations of Christian Education whose aim is the formation of the human person in the pursuit of his ultimate end and of the good of the societies of which, as man, he is a member, and in whose obligations, as an adult, he will share. (Gravissimum Educationis #1). Christian Education is tasked to develop harmoniously the persons physical, moral and intellectual endowments so that they may gradually acquire a mature sense of responsibility in striving endlessly to form their own lives properly and in pursuing true freedom as they surmount the vicissitudes of life with courage and constancy. (Cf. GE # 1) Yet, Christian education does not merely strive for the maturing of a human person as just now described, but has as its principal purpose this goal: that the baptized, while they are gradually introduced the knowledge of the mystery of salvation, become ever more aware of the gift of Faith they have received, and that they learn in addition how to worship God the Father in spirit and truth (cf. John 4:23) especially in liturgical action, and be conformed in their personal lives according to the new man created in justice and holiness of truth (Eph. 4:22-24); also that they develop into perfect manhood, to the mature measure of the fullness of Christ (cf. Eph. 4:13) and strive for the growth of the Mystical Body; moreover, that aware of their calling, they learn not only how to bear witness to the hope that is in them (cf. Peter 3:15) but also how to help in the Christian formation of the world that takes place when natural powers viewed in the full consideration of man redeemed by Christ contribute to the good of the whole society. (GE #2) Christian Education is not selfseeking. It is not given for the purpose of gaining power but as an aid towards a fuller understanding of, and communion with man, events and things. Knowledge is not to be considered as a means of material prosperity and success, but as a call to serve and to be responsible for others. (Ex Corde Ecclesiae #56) The Contribution of Catholic Education From the nature of Christian Education and from what has been done in the course of history, we cannot deny that we have benefited from it. In fact, it is not an exaggeration to say that the establishment of schools in our country has laid the foundations of education in our country. The brief historical survey earlier cited does not speak of all of the four centuries accomplishment of Catholic Education in the Philippines. It is a happy thing, that the Catholic School is still very much present and felt, not without challenges however. There are about 1300 Catholic schools spread all over the Philippines, offering different levels of education and types of formation. These schools, while relying mainly on their own resources and efforts, strive to provide decent classrooms and facilities so as to offer quality education even in remote towns and barrios. There are a number of these which have consistently been among the top schools not only in the country but also around the globe. At great cost and without necessarily incurring the government any burden, the Catholic schools recruit, train and sustain their personnel. Advanced studies and researches are pursued again at the expense of these same schools, thereby contributing to the advancement of society. In fact, Catholic schools have been a major contributor to the professional sector of our country. It is not altogether surprising then that quality education is almost always appended to Catholic schools. Furthermore, a number of these schools are not exclusive to Catholics, but serve peoples of other faiths; others are dedicated to out of school youths, to the handicapped, to cultural minorities, and those in the periphery. With the significant shortage of classrooms and teachers in public schools, Catholic schools assist the government in providing education to the rest of the citizens who opt for Catholic education as well as those who cannot be accommodated in public schools. Citizens, in choosing to be educated to Catholic schools, waive as it were their right to a free education, so that others may avail of it. Catholic schools by raising their own resources assist the government in providing employment and saving financial resources. One can only imagine what if these Catholic schools would close at the same time. Will the government be able to absorb all the students and provide the same quality education many of these schools provide given the present circumstances in public schools? In the Context of the Local Church In the context of the local church, the Catholic schools provide a stable and systematic evangelization. It will be remembered that when the threat of domination of other faiths accompanied by movement towards schismatic independence emerged, it was the establishment of parochial schools that became the solution. These schools, especially the seminaries, became the training ground of dedicated Catholics. Innumerable are the products of Catholic schools who have served the country and the church. Still at present, many graduates of Catholic schools serve in different lay ministries in the local churches. A number of them have taken leadership in the parishes and communities. The schools continue to make their resources, personnel and students of schools readily available to support programs and activities of the diocese. The outreach programs of many a Catholic school lead to the benefit of communities in dioceses and parishes, even to non-Catholics. They are a ready resource in times of calamities and social concerns. We do not intend to enumerate everything Catholic schools are doing. Yet we can ask: How will the local church be without the Catholic school? What will the country be without Catholic schools? Present-Day Context and Challenges As we note the contributions of Catholic Education, we also note present realities that challenge and even threaten Catholic Education. There exists a general perception that Catholic Schools are wealthy or are only for the wealthier social classes. At the mention of Catholic Schools, many would easily think of big universities or schools. This is a phenomenon that is also true in other countries. In some countries Catholic schools have been obliged to restrict their educational activities to wealthier social classes, thus giving an impression of social and economic discrimination in education. But this occurs only where the State has not weighed the advantages of an alternative presence in their pluralistic society. From such nearsightedness considerable difficulties have arisen for Catholic schools. (The Catholic School #21) The truth is, however, even for the CEAP, the biggest educational institution in the country, out of its more than 1300 schools, there are more than 900 small, struggling mission schools spread in different parts of the Philippines, whose teachers work with missionary spirit. Many of these same schools rely on their meager resources as they strive to provide quality education to the marginalized in far flung areas. A number of these, especially in Mindanao, serve students of other faiths. There is the challenge of the continuing trends of decreasing enrolment and the increasing migration of teachers from private Catholic schools to public schools. The free or low cost of public education and the ever increasing salaries in public schools have a huge impact to Catholic schools. They lose students year after year to public schools and some teachers suddenly leave in the middle of the school year when asked to report for work in the public school where they have pending application. This is occasioned not only by economic factors, but also by the seeming depreciation of the distinctiveness of Catholic Education. With the increasing secularist and pragmatic mentality, Catholic values are no longer seen as relevant by Catholic families. These economic and cultural factors put many a Catholic School in a dilemma as its survival is threatened. In the secular and postmodern
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Paul Quiambao
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Updates
CBCP Monitor
February 27 - March 11, 2012
Vol. 16 No. 5
the Old and New Testaments use to represent the salient moments in the life and faith of Israel. It is a number that expresses the time of waiting, of purification, of return to the Lord, of knowledge that God is faithful to His promises. This number does not represent an exact chronological period of time, marked by the sum of its days. rather, it indicates a patient perseverance, a long trial, a sufficient length of time to witness the works of God and a time when it is necessary to decide to accept ones responsibilities without further delay. It is a time for mature decisions. The number 40 first appears in the story of Noah. This just man, on account of the flood, spends 40 days and 40 nights in the ark, together with his family and the animals that God had told him to take with him. And he waits another 40 days, after the flood, before touching down upon dry land, saved from destruction (cf. Genesis 7:4,12; 8:6). Then, the next stage: Moses remains on Mount Sinai, in the presence of the Lord, for 40 days and 40 nights, to receive the Law. He fasts the entire time (cf. Exodus 24:18). For 40 years, the Hebrew people journey from Egypt to the Promised Land, a fitting time to experience the faithfulness of God. And you shall remember all the way which the Lord your God has led you these forty years in the wilderness your
clothing did not wear out upon you, and your foot did not swell, these forty years, Moses says in Deuteronomy at the end of the 40 years of migration (Deuteronomy 8:2,4). The years of peace Israel enjoys under the Judges are 40 (cf. Judges 3:11,30); but once this time has passed, they begin to forget Gods gifts and to return to sin. The prophet Elijah takes 40 days to reach Horeb, the mountain where he encounters God (cf. 1 Kings 19:8). For 40 days, the inhabitants of Ninevah do penance in order to obtain Gods pardon (cf. Genesis 3:4). Forty is also the number of years of the reign of Saul (cf. Acts 13:21), of David (cf. 2 Samuel 5:4-5) and of Solomon (cf. 1 Kings 11:41), the first three kings of Israel. The Psalms also reflect the biblical significance of the 40 years; for example, Psalm 95, the passage we just heard: O that today you would hearken to His voice! Harden not your hearts, as at Meribah, as on the day at Massah in the wilderness, when your fathers tested me, and put me to the proof, though they had seen my work. For forty years I loathed that generation and said, They are a people who err in heart, and they do not regard my ways (verses. 7c-10). In the New Testament, before beginning His public ministry, Jesus retires into the desert for 40 days, neither eating nor drinking (cf. Matthew 4:2); His nourishment is the Word of God, which He uses
as a weapon to conquer the devil. The temptations of Jesus recall those which the Jewish people faced in the desert, but which they were unable to overcome. For 40 days, the Risen Jesus instructs His disciples before ascending into Heaven and sending the Holy Spirit (cf. Acts 1:3). With the recurring number of 40, a spiritual atmosphere is described which remains relevant and valid. And the Church, precisely through these days of Lent, intends to preserve their enduring value and to make their efficacy present for us. The Christian Liturgy during Lent seeks to promote a path of spiritual renewal in light of this long biblical experience, above all for the sake of learning to imitate Jesus, who during the 40 days He spent in the desert, taught us to conquer temptation with the Word of God. The 40 years of Israels wandering in the desert presents ambivalent attitudes and situations. On the one hand, it is the season of first love with God, and between God and His people, when He speaks to their hearts, pointing out to them the path to follow. God, as it were, had taken up His abode with Israel; He went before them in a cloud and a column of fire; each day, He provided for their nourishment by making manna descend from the heavens and by making water gush forth from the rock.
Therefore, the years Israel passed in the desert can be seen as the time of their being especially chosen by God and of their clinging to Him: the time of first love. On the other hand, the Bible also portrays another image of Israels wandering in the desert: It is also the time of the greatest temptation and peril, when Israel murmurs against her God and wishes to return to paganism and to build her own idols, out of the need she feels to worship a God who is closer and more tangible. It is also the time of rebellion against the great and invisible God. This ambivalence, a time of special closeness to Godthe time of first loveas well as a time of temptationthe temptation to return to paganismwe surprisingly rediscover in Jesus earthy sojourn; naturally, however, without any compromise with sin. After His baptism of penance in the Jordanwhen He takes upon Himself the destiny of Gods Servant, who renounces himself and lives for others and takes his place among sinners in order to take upon himself the sin of the worldJesus goes into the desert and remains there for 40 days in profound union with the Father, thus repeating the history of Israel, all the rhythms of the 40 days or years I mentioned. This dynamic is a constant during the earthly life of Jesus, who always seeks moments of solitude in order to pray to His Father and to
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 16 No. 5
February 27 - March 11, 2012
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Fr. Soc Mesiona, MSP, executive secretary of Episcopal Commission on Mission and National Director of PMS discussed about possible collaboration in promoting mission awareness among the faithful during the Year of Mission.
permits a specified diocese, region, nation, or religious institute to honor with public cult under the title Blessed a Christian person who has died with a reputation for holiness. Written testimonies of the missionaries and of the Mariana natives were gathered to document the martyrdom of Padre Diego. Naturally, the documentation could not but mention also his lone companion in martyrdom, the boy from the Visayas, Pedro Calungsod. However, due to the difficult situation at that time and the eventual suppression of the Jesuits in the 18th century, the
Prefecture and was separated from the old Diocese of Cebu. On 14 October 1965, Guam became a diocese by the name of Diocese of Agaa. On 8 March 1984, Agaa became an archdiocese. In 1981, when Agaa was preparing for its 20th anniversary as a diocese, the 1673 beatification cause of Padre Diego Lus de San Vitores was rediscovered in the old manuscripts and taken up anew until Padre Diego was finally beatified on 6 October 1985. It was his beatification that brought the memory of Pedro to our day. The Archdiocese of Cebu, where
Pedro belonged by ecclesiastical jurisdiction, also started to process his beatification cause in 1994. The endeavor was rewarded when, on 5 March 2000, Pedro Calungsod was beatified by Pope John Paul II at Saint Peters Square in Rome. In his homily during the beatification, the Pope said, From his childhood, Pedro Calungsod declared himself unwaveringly for Christ and responded generously to his call. Young people today can draw encouragement and strength from the example of Pedro, whose love of Jesus inspired him to devote his teenage years to teaching the faith as a lay catechist. Leaving family and friends behind, Pedro willingly accepted the challenge put to him by Fr. Diego Lus de San Vitores to join him on the Mission to the Chamorros. In a spirit of faith, marked by strong Eucharistic and Marian devotion, Pedro undertook the demanding work asked of him and bravely faced the many obstacles and difficulties he met. In the face of imminent danger, Pedro would not forsake Fr. Diego but, as a good soldier of Christ, preferred to die at the missionarys side. Today, Blessed Pedro Calungsod intercedes for the young, in particular those of his native Philippines, and he challenges them. Young friends, do not hesitate to follow the example of Pedro, who pleased God and was loved by him and who, having come to perfection in so short a time, lived a full life. The feast of Blessed Pedro is celebrated every 2 April, the anniversary of his martyrdom. If the date falls within Holy Week or Easter Week, the feast is observed on the Saturday before Passion Sunday as was 2 April in 1672. The Vatican is now about to include the name of Blessed Pedro Calungsod in the Canon or list of Saints. By canonizing some of the faithful, i.e., by solemnly proclaiming that they practiced heroic virtue and lived in fidelity to Gods grace, the Church recognizes the power of the Spirit of holiness within her and sustains the hope of believers by proposing the saints to them as models and intercessors. The saints have always been the source and origin of renewal in the most difficult moments in the Churchs history. Indeed, holiness is the hidden source and infallible measure of her apostolic activity and missionary zeal. (Catechism of the Catholic Church n. 828) A more detailed account on Blessed Pedro Calungsod is provided in the manual I. Leyson, Pedro Calonsor Bissaya: Prospects of a Teenage Filippino, The Archdiocese of Cebu, 2000.
www.letcebu.blogspot.com
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By Fr. Deogracias Aurelio V. Camon, MA
Features
CBCP Monitor
February 27 - March 11, 2012
Vol. 16 No. 5
THE John Paul II National Institute for Studies on Marriage and the Family in Bacolod City successfully hosted a National Conference attended by the Directors and Executive Officers of the Commission on Family and Life as well as by members of the Clergy, Graduate students and professors last February 13-17, 2012. For this year the National Conference has the theme Blessed John Paul IIs Nuptial Theology: A Call to Family Ministry, Agenda for Humanity. The Most rev. Vicente M. Navarra, D.D., Bishop of Bacolod, Most Rev. Gabriel V. Reyes, D.D., Chairman of the CBCP Episcopal Commission on Family and Life (ECFL), Most Rev. Camilo D. Gregorio, D.D., Bishop-Prelate of the Prelature of Batanes, Most Rev Juan De Dios Pueblos D.D., Member of ECFL and Fr. Melvin Castro, Executive Secretary of the ECFL, graced the National Conference with their presence. The Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines, Most Rev. Giuseppe Pinto, D.D., celebrated the Opening Mass in San Sebastian Cathedral on February 13, 2012. Pinto in his homily noted that the National Conference is a concrete testament to the unrelenting commitment of the Catholic Church in the Philippines to uphold the truths regarding family and life. Towards the end of his homily, Pinto memorably mentioned that during these days, let Bacolod be the Nazareth of the Philippines, in order to live a page of the Gospel in our families and in the family of the Church. The words of the Apostolic Nuncio ring true for the Diocese of Bacolod. More than just being the host-diocese of the John Paul II National Institute for Studies on Marriage and Family, the Diocese is very active in the fight against the RH Bill by launching last year a massive Caravan for Life which traversed the whole island of Negros. There are also ongoing awareness campaigns and the
establishment of Centers for the Churchaccepted Natural Family Methods in the Diocese. Rev. Fr. Jose Granados, Vice President for the Central Session of Pontificio Istituto Giovanni Paolo II Per Studi Su Matrimonio E Famiglia in Rome, was the conferences keynote speaker. Granados affirmed that in the perspective of Blessed John Paul II the issue of marriage and the family is the crucial point for the new evangelization of society. He noted that in the Philippines marriage is much more stable and its existence is covered by the laws which made the Filipinos look upon the family as a resource and not as a problem. However, he observed that the country is also being threatened by the problems affecting the family across the globe. On a positive note, Granados believed that the Philippines can export to the world a more healthy culture of the family. Discussing on the prevalence of secularism, Granados mentioned that many people no longer believed in God which resulted to the superficiality of the present generations attempt to build a society without setting the foundations on a common search for common roots and essence of human life. Granados cited that one of the greatest problems of our age is that many people have
stopped believing in love and its capacity to regenerate the human being and transform society. Furthermore, he mentioned that care for human love is at the center of the Churchs concern. This is concretized in the Churchs mission to evangelize the family. He insisted that the Church does not protect the family due to its tradition or faith but because the Church finds in the preservation of the family the good of the human society. Other speakers during the conference were the professors of the John Paul II National Institute for Studies on Marriage and the Family; Fr. Ronald Quijano, SThD, the Academic Dean of the Institute presented the Nuptial Mystery in the light of Blessed John Paul IIs Catechesis on Human Love in the Original Divine Plan and Nuptial Theology: Philosophical Anthropological Foundation; Fr. Nitodel Soriano, SThL, Ph.D. talked about the Pastoral Challenge and Implications of the Nuptial Theology in the Light of Familiaris Consortio; Fr. Noli Blancaflor, SThL, shared his Reflections on Veritatis Splendor of Blessed John Paul II: A Call to Authentic Christian Moral Action; Irma Donna Echaus, EdD, tackled the topic Pope John Paul II Institute at the Service of New Evangelization, research and
Family Ministry; and Msgr. Victorino Rivas, JCD, the Director of the Institute discussed about the Identity, Vision, and Mission of John Paul II Institute in the Philippine Context. Msgr. Victorino rivas explained that the Institute serves as a vehicle for evangelization with the vision that coming from the family and the Basic Ecclesial Communities the Institute will assist the Church (as it) moves toward a new approach to carry out its mission on integral evangelization and discipleship. At the same time the Institute promotes the thrust of connecting every pastoral concern with family as the subject and object of evangelization in the light of the nuptial mystery and theology as an expression of the New Evangelization. It is also of note that as part of the 31st Anniversary of the Blessed John Pauls visit to Negros in 1981, the Bacolod City Council passed a resolution declaring February 1320, 2012 as Blessed John Paul II Week. It also recognized the numerous historic landmarks; notable among these is the John Paul II Tower in reclamation Area that celebrated the Popes historic visit in Negros. Last February 15, 2012, the John Paul II National Institute accepted in a formal turnover rite the use of the
Esteban Ancestral House along Lacson St. Bacolod City to serve as the Centro Giovanni Paulo II Research Center. The Esteban heirs and the Diocese of Bacolod entered into a renewable 25 years usufruct agreement. Another support facility for the National Institute, the Giovanni Paulo II Retreat and resort Center was opened in Brgy. Punta Taytay, Bacolod City. All these are testimonies to the growing interest in the legacy of John Paul II among the faithful in the Diocese. At the end of the National Conference, the 150 delegates coming from 33 Dioceses, together with around 25 professors and graduates of JPII National Institute for Studies on Marriage and Family affirmed the importance of Family Ministry. They observed that there is a need to orient and integrate all pastoral programs towards the families finding their inspiration in the words of Blessed John Paul II that proclaimed the future of the world and of the Church passes through the family (Familiaris Consortio # 75). It was a common sentiment among the participants that the National Conference revitalized their zeal and commitment to the Family Ministry appreciating more fully the important role of the family for the welfare of the nation.
RECENTLY the Exodus formation program held a one-day forum on Prostitution and Human trafficking. Exodus (EXchange Of Dreams in a Unified Struggle for a Relevant Formation) is an inter-congregational formation program for those entering religious life (novices). The group is composed of approximately 80-100 novices from all over Asia and beyond. Formations are held monthly on various topics such as prayer, ecology, performing arts for mission, healthy intimacy and pastoral responses to poverty. It was decided to organize a whole day formation to highlight the issues of prostitution and trafficking and provide a forum for reflection and discussion. The venue was the Sisters of Saint Annes Convent in New Manila, Quezon City. The main objectives of the forum were to inform religious novices belonging to the Exodus program about these issues, to help them reflect on the contribution of their specific charism in these areas, and to sensitize and empower us as Church to be able to help and respond. The opening remarks were given by Fr. James McTavish, a Verbum Dei priest and organizer of the conference. He opened the discussion with a challenging observation made by a visitor: The tragedy of the Philippines is this: in one of the worlds loveliest countries, some of the worlds most beautiful girls are being sold for money to some of the worlds ugliest men. The first talk, titled Prostitution in the Philippine contexta pastoral response was given by Jonathan Nambu of the Samaritana Transformaiton ministries (see www.samaritana.org). Mr Nambu, an American citizen, shared that some descriptions such as entertainment, sex work, hostessing, worlds oldest profession, guest relations officer are not helpful as they make prostitution invisible, legitimate, or trivial. rather, prostitution is actually the sale of persons, most often women and children, for profit and the sexual gratification of another. It is in fact a violation and exploitation of basic human rights and human dignity. Prostitution is not merely a single act where a person is bought for sex but is actually a system composed of the socalled three Bs: the Business,
Other pastoral aspects stressed were the need to provide a safe community for women who were being rehabilitated from prostitution, and that the program offered has to be holistic, participatory and empowering. The urgent need to challenge and address structures in society that allow the market to proliferate was emphasized. Following this overview of prostitution, a woman gave a very powerful and moving testimony of how coming from a poor family, she had been duped into coming to Manila and working in a bar before ending up in prostitution. She shared the slow, painful but eventually victorious journey of rehabilitation and exit from prostitution. She now works in ministry encouraging and supporting other prostituted women to begin new lives. The second resource speaker was Ms. Jean Enriquez, Executive Director of the Coalition Against Trafficking in Women-Asia Pacific (see www.catw-ap.org). Her talk
similar to slavery, involuntary servitude or removal of organs. When a person is trafficked, the consent of the victim is irrelevant because of the power imbalance involved. Ms Enriquez stressed that trafficking would not happen without the sex industry. This is because the trafficking of persons ensuresthesteadysupplyofpersons to the prostitution industry. The people who should be prosecuted are the recruiters and exploiters but in reality women and children are the ones shamed and stigmatized i.e. victims are penalized, not the buyers or the people selling them. As such, there is an urgent need to address the demand as much as the supply. Trafficking treats women and children as commodities not persons. Typically women trafficked for prostitution are from poor and/or big families, victims of incest and/or domestic violence, 13-30 years old, from rural areas and children of prostitutes. Worldwide, trafficking is a $7 billion per year industry. It is fueled
malesexbuyers.Themoredemand there is, the more incentive there is for the recruiters and traffickers. At the root of this demand is the perception of sexuality. Often masculinity is viewed as power over women, especially young women. This is reinforced by the portrayal of women in pornography. Ms Enriquez asserted that societys view of manhood needs to be redefined. She also noted that often, many men go to prostitutes to avoid the responsibility associated with relationships. In reality, prostitution and sex trafficking is violence against women. Women are conditioned by the media and often their families to base their self-worth on their appearance i.e. that they are sex objects. Many women involved in prostitution have suffered from sexual abuse within their families. Women in prostitution are sexually and physically abused by both the managers/pimpsandbythebuyers. Buyers behavior is often influenced by the violent pornography that
shown very courageously fighting against the system, teaching the children how to take photographs. The result is a moving human drama of someone who is trying to do something. The forum participants listened to a powerful song called Speak my Word. The song is about the fact that we cannot just sit around silent and do nothing. The lyrics go Look at you now, are you all right with what you see? This aint what its supposed to beIs it enough not to care just because you are not there? Is it enough to be far and safe? Is it enough to live with ease and not give a damn to others needs? Is it enough to mind your own? We were reminded that as Church we have a prophetic voice and task and that the need to speak out is urgentto speak out in defense of many victims of prostitution and to speak out to denounce a society which largely accepts the injustice of prostitution with little protest. A priest, Fr. James Reuter, once commented that in Philippines when the trees are threatened, people voice their indignation, when the fishing stocks are in danger the people protest, when land is sold unjustly there is a surge of resentment but when our beautiful girls are sold for money, the great rank and file of our people do not move. The closing remarks were given by Fr James McTavish hoping that the forum had opened our eyes to this reality and given us insight into how as Church we could do something. We were reminded that although some groups are tackling these challenging issues we could still do more as Church as a whole. At times what is lacking is coordination and perhaps what is needed is to set up a National office or Ministry to foster, channel and focus efforts to combat the evils of trafficking and prostitution. The words of Fr. Reuter were shared to us: Each of us has an obligation, in conscience, to reach out to our people, to those who are in need. The poor girl trapped in prostitution is the bottom of the barrelthe one most desperately in need. Each of us can do something! If only we would try! If only we would try. It is time for change. The meeting closed at 3 p.m. with a prayer imploring the Holy Spirit to guide those working to combat the evils of trafficking and prostitution and asking the help of the Virgin Mary to inspire many NGO and Church workers to keep fighting the good fight.
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CBCP Monitor
Vol. 16 No. 5
February 27 - March 11, 2012
Statements
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Statement on the Corona Impeachment Proceedings
IN Mark 4:22, Jesus said, Whatever is hidden away will be brought out into the open; and whatever is covered up will be uncovered. This year, the Church celebrates the Year of Faith with the motto: Living truth in charity. I am praying with the Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI for truth to be held supreme Since God is love, truth is expressed in charity, and charity in turn reveals the truth. Likewise, the Holy Father reaffirmed the need for a profound conviction of the truth of Gods revelation in His Son Jesus Christ, because if there is no truth, we have no compass and do not know where to go. Life can be rich and beautiful only if there is truth. This conviction for truth makes it possible for the Church to re-evangelize humankind today. Thus, I am praying that the Philippine Senate as an impeachment court against Chief Justice Renato Corona will unravel the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. I am praying that the impeachment court exhaust all available means to ferret out the whole truth. Furthermore, I am praying that the court remain vigilant and prevent any attempt to suppress, hide or dilute the whole truth. I am praying that the senator-judges, as elected servants, look at the truth from the point of view of the sovereign people of the Philippines, their Boss. Therefore, I am praying that they become aware of any personal, political or other vested interests that might becloud their lenses as jurists. I am praying that the final verdict would always be for the Common Good, never for the benefit of just a few. I am praying that the final verdict is reached as early as possible. Therefore, if there is enough evidence to warrant a fair, just and loving decision, I pray that this final verdict be pronounced the soonest possible. I am praying that after giving a swift, objective, and propeople decision on the impeachment proceedings, the senatorjudges and the members of the House of Representatives, as an act of charity, return immediately to their respective legislative houses so that the many bills that are for the Common Good are passed after sufficient study, and with reasonable speed. May the Holy Spirit of Wisdom, Justice and Love guide us. May Mary, our mother and all the saints support us. In the Holy Spirit, BISHOP GERARDO ALMINAZA, DD Auxiliary Bishop of Jaro/ Head Convenor of the Visayas Clergy Discernment Group (VCDG) February 21, 2012
aside our gold and put on ashes. We beg pardon from the Lord. Let this jubilee renew us. Let this golden year make us new. Gold we have none And Peter said, Silver and gold have I none, but what I have, that I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, get up and walk! (Acts 3:6) The jubilee is a time for mission. Celebration without contrition is triumphalism. Contrition without courage is lame. Let this jubilee year be a year of courage for the mission of the Lord. We will not be afraid to have neither silver nor gold. Gold and silver we have none! I hope we will be able to say that with conviction. Our first and only power is the Lord and our first and only way to the Lord is love. We must pray but it is not enough to pray. Our prayer must make us think and talk and listen and act and be like Jesusthat is the apostolic action that we need in the Church. Any pastoral action or assembly that does not come from prayer will fail. Any prayer that does not lead us to apostolic charity will wither. Love without service is mere sentimentalism. Service without prayer is social activism. We have a dream. We dream of a church renewed. Gold and silver we have none but we are a people who believe profoundly in the love of Almighty God. We are a people poor in the things of the world but courageous in the faith we profess. We stammer
when we speak but we pray fervently from the heart and we teach with zeal and conviction. We are ourselves are a people in need but we serve generously disinterested in rewards. We are more than a million Catholic faithful but we are close to all and each one is friend of everyone. Our real gold is God. Our gift of gold is our love. Year of Grace We are opening a year of grace. It is a blessed time to celebrate and blow our trumpets for the Lord. This is a time of grace to seek forgiveness and share forgiveness with hearts humble and contrite. The year of grace is a year of hope. We look beyond our horizon and see beyond the rainbow a renewed and revitalized Church courageously and boldly proclaiming Gods love and joy. We entrust this year to Mary Help of Christians whose guiding hand has brought many of our young men to the altar as priests of her Son. As we now break the ground for the construction of the theology seminary, may our Mother guide us, give us courage and bring us to live for Jesus her Son. From the Cathedral of Saint John the Evangelist, +SOCRATES B. VILLEGAS, DD Archbishop of Lingayen Dagupan February 16, 2012
www.rcald.org
Pastoral Letter
MY dear brothers and sisters in Christ, Stewardship is discipleship, this is the theme for Alay Kapwa 2012. Alay Kapwa means offering (alay) to our neighbor (kapwa). Alay Kapwa is the Lenten evangelization-action program to raise social consciousness about the plight of the poor and the marginalized in imitation of Jesus who offered Himself for us poor sinners. It is also the time of the year designated to raise funds for social services and programs of the Church for the poor. As we successfully did last year here in the Archdiocese of Manila and our suffragan dioceses, we will again be supporting and implementing Alay Kapwa not only during Palm Sunday but throughout the 40 days of Lent. We will take up a special second collection for Alay Kapwa for six (6) Sundays, from February 26 to April 1, 2012 (i.e., February 26, March 4, 11, 18, 25 and April 1). The funds gathered for Alay Kapwa during these six Sundays will be used as emergency funds for crisis and calamities both from natural and human causes all over the country, as was done for the victims of Sendong recently. I also encourage all parishes to sponsor booths for our social services and development
ministry, so we may inspire more possible donors for our Caritas programs for the poor. We should ask: what can I do in order that others may be saved and that for them the star of hope may rise? Then I will have done my utmost for my own personal salvation as well (Spe salvi, 48). And, as the First Letter of John (3:18) tell us, Let us not love with words or tongue but with actions.
On our road to Easter, our Lord Jesus Christs ultimate triumph, let us also claim victory over our sufferings through the transformative power of charity and the maternal care and prayers of Mary. May God bless you always! + LUIS ANTONIO G. TAGLE, DD Archbishop of Manila Chairman, Caritas Manila
www.caritas.org.ph
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Ref lections
CBCP Monitor
February 27 - March 11, 2012
Vol. 16 No. 5
Jesus, Peter seemed to think that the new age has dawned for all. For this reason, he offered to build three tents as a way of saying that he wanted Jesus to anticipate the future when God will dwell with men. This object of hope is echoed by Paul: Indeed, we know that when the earthly tent in which we dwell is destroyed we have a dwelling provided for us by God, a dwelling in the heavens, not made by hands but to last forever. We groan while we are here, even as we yearn to have our heavenly habitation envelop us (2 Cor 5:1-3; see also
rev 21:1-3). But God did not allow Peter to eternalize his peak experience at the mountain: it was not yet the parousia, but simply its foretaste. Thus, speaking from the clouds, he said to the disciples, including Peter of course, that they have to listen to Jesus (Mark 9:7). And what words of Jesus they are to listen to? In Marks theology, it is this: If a man wishes to come after me, he must deny his very self, take up his cross, and follow me. Whoever would preserve his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and the
gospels will preserve it. What profit does a man show who gains the whole world and destroys himself in the process? What can a man offer in exchange for his life? If anyone in this faithless and corrupt age is ashamed of me and my doctrine, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes with the holy angels in his glory I assure you, among those standing here there are some who will not taste death until they see the reign of God established in his Fathers glory (Mark 8:34-9:1). But in listening
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temples of the All-Holy God, our persons may become shrines of false gods and idols. Our lives may be turned into a deadly liturgy to pride, lust, selfishness, aggressiveness, greed . . . This saddens our Lord much more than the sight of the traders and moneychangers he chased away from the Temple of Jerusalem. This Lent, in our quest for a new and fuller life, we are invited to re-awaken to the sacredness of our persons and of every human person, especially the baptized. This is the time for a thorough purification from all profanations and unbecoming presence of idols in our lives. This is the time for a restoration of the masterpiece of Gods love to its original splendor. This is the time for a re-dedication of ourselves to the Source of all Holiness, in order that everything that is in us may become a hymn of glory and praise to the Triune God.
ENCOUNTERS
Twisted values
WHEN people give more importance to the means rather than to the end or goal, we might call that twisted thinking or a form of twisted values. When legislators make laws to exterminate human life (by way of contraceptives and abortion), its also a form of twisted thinking. Why? Because human life is the very first right of man, to which all other rights are subordinated. This is why the rH Bill is creating so much reaction in society because it tends to pressure towards actions that are contrary to a well-formed conscience, specifically one that respects mans first right: life. You cannot force people to act against their conscience, especially in relation to moral good or evil. We might just simply remind people what Gods infallible truth reminds us ofSo always treat others as you would like them to treat you; that is the meaning of the Law and the Prophets (Mt. 7:12; Prov. 3:27). Laws that run contrary to divine truth wont oblige us since they are not conducive to the ultimate good of man. Since we must endeavor to avoid being enslaved to money lest it become our cruel master, we can quote here a word of one business analyst, Robert Townsend, whose book Up the Organization came out once in the bestseller list. Money, like prestige, if sought directly, is almost never gained. It must come as a byproduct of some worthwhile objective or result which is sought and achieved for its own sake. Lets look at the nation today. When the leaders try to make a name for themselves by picking on others faults and defects to build up their own ego prestige, or making money promoting pornographic education or birth control devices, thats not a positive way of service to society nor even a successful venture but one tending towards downfall and self-destruction. In all our policies of love and service to God and country lets always take the positive side in line of the Gospel: Do not judge, and you will not be judged; because the judgments you give are the judgments you will get, and the amount you measure out is the amount you will be given. Why do you observe the splinter in your brothers eye and never notice the plank in your own? How dare you say to your brother, Let me take the splinter out of your eye, when all the time there is a plank in your own? Hypocrite! Take the plank out of your own eye first, and then you will see clearly enough to take the splinter out of your brothers eye (Mt. 7:1). Jesus says it clear in the gospel: Beware of false prophets who come to you disguised as sheep but underneath are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their life and deeds as you know a tree by its fruits (Mt. 7:15).
WHATEVER
www.holyjeepers.com
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 16 No. 5
February 27 - March 11, 2012
Social Concerns
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manipulative bookkeeping and smart tax lawyers that could take up to ten years and even then they can show a loss. The Alliance to Stop Mining said in a newspaper advertisement recently, ..while the mining corporations use the Philippines as a milking cow, the owner of the natural wealth only gets dog food. In other words mining is of no economic advantage to the Filipino people. This is the serious injustice facing the nation that has to be addressed. The mining companies will claim otherwise. If they will open their books, bank accounts, (especially the dollar accounts) and tax records to the public then we might see the truth. Lets see what they earn considering the astronomical high prices for mineral commodities on the world market today. The government, elected by the people to address this issue among others, does not treat the people as dogs and to prove it, the President will issue a Executive Order (EO) to bring this tax free exploitation to an end and impose at least a 20 percent tax on large scale mining and end the corruption and environmental destruction caused by the irresponsible mining industry. However the passing of the new mining law is the best solution. In a previous article I pointed to the abandoned open-pit mining operation in San Marcelino where Benguet Corp. operated for years, a huge crater remains,
a mountain has been destroyed with its bio-diversity and an entire valley has been left abandoned and poisoned. The open-pit mining operation in Tampakan, South Cotobato is so huge you could fit two Empire State buildings one on top of the other in it according to the Alliance to Stop Mining. The Filipino people are demanding a total halt to the rampant and out-ofcontrol massive irresponsible mining operations that are destroying the environment and bring no benefit to the people or the nation. Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pabillo said the mining law of 1995
should be repealed and the proposed new Peoples Mining Bill passed by Congress. That is the increasingly loud cry of the people from all over the country. The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) representing the voice of 125 Bishops has supported this unequivocally. The bishops called for a halt to large scale mining until this new law is passed. In an ecumenical move Catholic and Protestant Bishops made a statement: We the Ecumenical Bishops Forum, express alarm over the wanton abuse of natural resources by the transnational mining corporations
with their local cohorts in South Luzon region, especially Bicol. They went on to say: Destructive mining is blatantly unethical, unjust and senseless for it exacerbates poverty, causes dislocation of the livelihood of the people, and threatens the base of life and life itself, the bishops said. There we have it, the plain bald truth. The way the minerals are extracted is detrimental to the environment; the earnings for the people are zero. The proposed new law must be passed to make mining a responsible industry that protects the environment and gives just and fair benefits to all.
culture that seems to disregard the need for faith, we are confronted with a society that offers varied and often conflicting ephemeral values. Thus, Pope Benedict has spoken of the great educational emergency, the increasing difficulty encountered in transmitting the basic values of life and correct behavior to the new generations, a difficulty that involves both schools and families and, one might say, any other body with educational aims. More than ever before, a Catholic schools job is infinitely more difficult, more complex, since this is a time when Christianity demands to be clothed in fresh garments, when all manner of changes have been introduced in the Church and in secular life, and, particularly, when a pluralist mentality dominates and the Christian Gospel is increasingly pushed to the side-lines. (TCS #66) Sense of Mission Despite these, the foundational philosophy of Catholic education which is in service of the faith has continued on. While these challenges pose a threat to the existence of some of our schools, they have not lost sight of the vision of Catholic education. They have remained as potent means of quality education where Religion is the core of the curriculum an effective contribution to the development of other aspects of personality (TCS #19). Catholic Education strives to remain faithful to its mission of providing complete education which necessarily includes a religious dimension. religion is an effective contribution to the development of other aspects of a personality in the measure in which it is integrated into general education (TCS #19). Apart from providing an integral and holistic formation, it is one that aims at a dialogue of culture and faith. The education in the faith which Catholic Education provides, in the words of Pope Benedict, nurtures the soul of a nation. Thus, Catholic Education is beneficial not only for Catholics but for the entire country. The mission continues. In todays context, we see the signs of hope in the rise of parochial and diocesan schools. recently, we have more diocesan priests being trained to develop the parochial and diocesan school system. It is not to be forgotten that some of the great founders
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of religious congregations were diocesan priests. These diocesan priests founded institutes whose life and mission were on Catholic Education. Eventually, some of these schools started by religious congregations or organizations were turned over to the dioceses. Even the first president of the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP), Msgr. Jose Jovellanos, was a diocesan priest. Moreover, society can take note from the Catholic school that it is possible to create true communities out of the common effort of the common good. In the pluralistic society of today, the Catholic school, by maintaining an institutional Christian presence in the academic world, proclaims by its very existence the enriching power of the faith as the answer to the enormous problems which afflict mankind. It is called to render a humble loving service to the Church by ensuring that she is present in the scholastic field for the benefit of the human family. A Call to a Fervent Renewal Brothers and Sisters, our grateful recollection of the grace of 400 years of Catholic Education is an opportune time, not to withdraw, but to rediscover once again the original mission of the Catholic schools. The words of Jesus resound once again: Go, teach them to observe what I have commanded you. It is a time to renew the mission with fervor. This call for fervent renewal is a challenge to Catholic schools to become the locus of the encounter with Christ. In the school the loving truth of the Gospel must be proclaimed. It is not only informative but also performative, that is creative and life-changing. (Spe Salvi #2). This fervent renewal is a rediscovery of the ideals of Jesus. This calls us to make saints of our students. In this regard, the words of the Holy Father are instructive: Christianity is not a new philosophy or a new form of morality. We are only Christians if we encounter Christ, even if He does not reveal Himself to us as clearly and irresistibly as he did to Paul in making him the Apostle of the Gentiles. We can also encounter Christ in reading Holy Scripture, in prayer, and in the liturgical life of the Church, touch Christs heart and feel that Christ touches ours. And it is only in this personal relationship with Christ, in this meeting with the Risen One, that we are truly Christian. (Pope Benedict XVI)
This renewal means going back to the spirit of the establishment of Catholic education where the synthesis of knowledge, culture and faith are evident. This, in turn, must lead to the production of right and morally upright citizens. This means not only the formation of the mind but of the heart. It is education that provides moral compass which directs them to the proper actions. The integration of faith and life will help students overcome their individualism and discover, in the light of faith, their specific vocation to live responsibly in a community with others; to commit themselves to serve God in their brethren and to make the world a better place for everyone to live in (TCS #9). It is an intensification of the imperative to reach out and to serve others. Even among Catholic schools, there are many possibilities of helping one another. This renewal is a challenge to redirect energies towards the transformation the school community into an authentic Christian community where the presence of Jesus is felt and experienced. It is a call to make the positive values of our faith stand out and energize our policies, systems and structures. In another way of speaking, that the gospel be the motive of the schools modus vivendi et operandi. Thus, every Catholic educational institution is a place to encounter the living God who in Jesus Christ reveals his transforming love and truth (cf. Spe Salvi, #4). This relationship elicits a desire to grow in the knowledge and understanding of Christ and his teaching. In this way those who meet him are drawn by the very power of the Gospel to lead a new life characterized by all that is beautiful, good, and true; a life of Christian witness nurtured and strengthened within the community of our Lords disciples, the Church. (Pope Benedict, Meeting with Catholic Educators) The ecclesial dimension of the task of renewal, that Catholic Education form people to have a passion for the church and that Catholic Educational institutions think with the church sentire cum ecclesia. For ultimately, the same institutions are at the service of the church both universal and local. The Prophetic Dimension of Catholic Education This renewal, sincerely and
fervently done, cannot ignore the prophetic dimension of Catholic Education. It is impossible to think of Catholic Education as divorced from the Word of God, the Logos. This involves a deep examination of presentday realities in the light of faith. This allows the church to think critically about issues. The Word in prophetic life must criticize and energize. Catholic Education enables the educational community to see the world as charged with the power of God. It is transformative. It announces the good news and denounces that which is not life-giving. It seeks to build a culture of peace and love. It challenges anomalous and evil structures. Thus, the Catholic Educational community and its graduates must be witnesses to the power of the Word and should strive to transform society. Catholic education as prophetic means consecration to the cause of truth. The present age is in urgent need of this kind of disinterested service, namely of proclaiming the meaning of truth, that fundamental value without which freedom, justice and human dignity are extinguished. (Ex Corde Ecclesiae #4) This means assiduous search for the truth and fidelity to the same truth. This is a bold aspiration in the present time, for it is typical of the incoherence of modernity that it can harbor contradictions. On the one hand it dehumanizes, on the other it deifies. This prophetic dimension of education highlights the necessity for dialogue between faith and reason. Faith devoid of reason risk becoming superstition and blind prejudice. Reason inattentive to faith risks solipsism, self-absorption, detachment from reality. (Pope Benedict XVI) Finally, this prophetic dimension includes a deep appreciation of the Catholic tradition particularly in the field of education. It is a retrieval of the sense of mission and inspiration from many great men and women, saints, who have transformed societies, countries because of their zeal for education and formation of the human person. They, imbued by the gospel and motivated by the charity of Christ, transformed communities, nations, even continents. From these we draw inspiration, as we are called to revisit the significant role of Catholic Education in our
country. This, at the same time, gives us a sense of pride of being Catholics, a pride tempered by the humble recognition that it is the Lord who accomplishes things through us. Set Forth with Faith! Dear Brothers and Sisters, we wish once again to quote the assuring words of Jesus: Lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. These words provide hope for Catholic Education in the Philippines as it sets forth towards the future with faith. The frontiers of science and technology are vast. The society and the globe are rapidly changing. We and the young are faced with the digital age, information explosion, relativism, consumerism, and destructive exaltation or profanation of the body and of sexuality and all their implications. We are constantly barraged by varying and contradicting views of progress. These may eventually lead to fragmentation and dissipation of the spirit of the young. Such fragmentation, will consequently lead to the weakening of the soul of a nation. While the future seems uncertain, Catholic Education in the Philippines, assured by the Lord Jesus, sets forth with faith. It will continue to proclaim the good news of Jesus in this fastchanging world in season or out of season. Authentic progress cannot risk the human person. While scientific and technological discoveries create an enormous economic and industrial growth, but they also inescapably require the correspondingly necessary search for meaning in order to guarantee that the new discoveries be used for the authentic good of individuals and of human society as a whole (Ex Corde #7). Catholic Education, faithful to the social teaching of the Church, will continue to strive towards total human development. The task of Catholic Education is vast and seemingly daunting but it is not simply a concern of one sector. It is in fact a collaborative duty of all the members of the church and of the community. Thus, we, your bishops, appreciative and supportive of Catholic Education, express our gratitude to those who support Catholic education. We thank the government, as we pray that it may find ways to support private education. We appreciate the sense of
mission of teachers as we hope that they will continue to see their profession as a call to the fullness of life. We thank parents for their partnership and collaboration. We thank the alumni for their loyalty and support to their alma mater. We thank the administrators of schools and Catholic Educational associations for the tireless service in Catholic Education. We thank you pupils and students. You are not simply recipients of Catholic Education. You shape Catholic Education. Participate fully and take the most advantage of the formation that is given to you, always bearing in mind that the end goal of Catholic Education is being conformed to Jesus, the great Teacher. Conclusion Dear faithful, thank you for your prayers. We ask you to continue to pray and support Catholic Education in all its forms. May we all, borrowing the words of Blessed John Paul II, ardently search for truth, unselfishly transmit it to the young and to all those learning to think rigorously, so as to act rightly and to serve humanity better. (Cf. ECE #2) In closing, we re-affirm the validity and the necessity of our Catholic Schools for what will the Philippines be without Catholic schools? Brothers and Sisters, we remember with gratitude all those who worked for Catholic Education for more than 400 years; we renew with fervor our commitment to the continuing task of the Supreme Teacher; and assured by the same Lord Jesus, we look towards the future filled with hope and we set forth in faith knowing that in the last analysis success in any venture does not come from trust in our own solutions but from the trust in Jesus who allowed Himself to be called Teacher (TCS#93) and who exhorts us Teach them to observe all that I have commanded you. We sincerely wish all those involved in the task of Catholic Education our sincere prayers as we impart our Episcopal blessings. For the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines +JOSE S. PALMA, DD Archbishop of Cebu President, Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines 29 January 2012
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to Jesus, we have to do so like Abraham, who gave up human assurance (Gen 22:1-2) because we can rest assured in God (Rom 8:38-39). What assurance? It is that if we wish that God dwell with us, if we wish to be dressed in white, then we have to follow Jesus in his suffering (Mark 8:34-35). The sharing and the eternalizing of Peters experience at the mountain is given to those who deny their very self, and
take up their cross. Indeed, if we do, we will not even taste death, and we shall attain that experience even here on earth (Mark 9:11). In view of this, and in the light of the transfiguration of Jesus, the sufferings and failures in our life with Jesus are thus given a new perspective. If we suffer and fail with him, we do not experience simply bad moments that we could have avoided all the better.
No, they are rather part and parcel of Christian life, of discipleship. They are, so to speak, constitutive elements of the experience of Gods glory (1 Pet 4:14). In our sufferings and failures for and in Christ, God is already pitching his tent among us, and we are already wearing the white garment, even as Jesus himself was recognized as the Messiah as he hung on the cross (Mark 15:39).
He made sure to make them part of the zone of His love. He taught them to pray, to embrace sacrifice, to live virtue and to become fishers of men. I guess, Jesus comfort zone was doing what His Father wanted Him to do in the first place. Wow! How about you, honey, whats your comfort zone? I dunnuh, he scratched his head.
But after that you said about Jesus, I think my prayer and heart can be His comfort zones anytime. Thats really nice, son, she smiled. Keep it up, and always make your prayer and heart pure and joyful. Mom? Yes, dear? So whats your comfort zone? Hit the shower, young Neanderthal!
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Entertainment
Moral Assessment
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 16 No. 5
Technical Assessment
THE Descendants is set in Hawaii and follows the unpredictable journey of an American family at a crossroads. Matt King (George Clooney), a husband and father of two girls, must re-examine his past and navigate his future when his wife goes into coma due to a boating accident off Waikiki. He awkwardly attempts to repair his relationship with his daughters perky 10-year-old Scottie (Amara Miller) and rebellious 17-year-old Alexandra (Shailene Woodley)while wrestling with a decision to sell his familys land handed down from Hawaiian royalty and missionaries. Matt and his King cousins own some of the last priceless virgin parcels of tropical beach in the islands. When Alexandra drops the bombshell that her mother was cheating on her husband at the time of the accident, Matt has to take a whole new look at his life, not to mention his legacy, during a week of momentous decisions. With his girls in tow, he embarks on a haphazard search for his wifes lover. Along the way, in
encounters alternately funny, troublesome and transcendent, he realizes hes finally on course toward rebuilding his life and family. Based on the novel by Kaui Hart Hemmings, The Descendants has a snappy screen play by its own director Alexander Payne and Nat Faxon & Jim Rash. Others in the acting ensemble are Beau Bridges, Robert Forster, Judy Greer, Matthew Lillard, Nick Krause, Mary Birdsong, rob Huebel and Patricia Hastie. Clooneys award-winning Matt King is a flawed individual finding his way through a world of lunacy, bittersweet emotion and surprises; he is neither a hero nor anti-hero, not the man he would like to be. rather, Matt King is a man grappling with some of the worst news, most difficult people, and most impossible decisions of his life. Close family ties are among the values highlighted in this movie. The bond between the father and his daughters is also emphasized to show that while tragedy, a death in the family,
TITLE: The Descendants CAST: George Clooney, Shailene Woodley, Beau Bridges, Judy Greer, Matthew Lillard, Robert Forster DIRECTOR: Alexander Payne SCREENPLAY: Alexander Payne, Nat Faxon, Jim Rash PRODUCED BY: Jim Burke, Alexander Payne, Jim Taylor CINEMATOGRAPhY: Phedon Papamichae EDITING: Kevin Tent LOCATION: United States RUNNING TIME: 115 minutes TEChNICAL ASSESSMENT: MORAL ASSESSMENT: Cinema Rating: For viewers 14 years old and above
and the discovery of a betrayal may lead to pain and bitterness, the same suffering may also strengthen the character of those left behind. In the last scene the characters do no talk but it is pregnant with symbols and body language no words can equal. A most satisfying film for families to watch.
MAC en COLET
Ni Bladimer Usi
Buhay Parokya
Look for the images of Blessed Pedro Calungsod, Chalice veil and Blessed John Paul II. (Illustration by Bladimer Usi)
TITLE: The Vow CAST: Rachel McAdams (Paige Collins), Channing Tatum (Leo Collins), Sam Neill (Paiges Father ), Jessica Lange (Paiges Mother), Jessica McNamee (Gwen) DIRECTOR: Michael Sucsy GENRE: Drama, Romance LOCATION: Toronto, Canada & Chicago, USA RUNNING TIME: 104 minutes TEChNICAL ASSESSMENT: MORAL ASSESSMENT: Cinema Rating: For viewers 14 years old and above
SYNOPSIS : A newlywed couple recovers from a car accident that puts the wife in a coma. Waking up with severe memory loss, her husband endeavors to win her heart again.
TITLE: This means war CAST: Reese Witherspoon (Lauren Scott), Cris Pine (FDR Foster), Tom hardy (Tuck henson), Till Schweiger (heinrich), Chelsea handler (Trish), Abegail Spenser (Katie), Angela Basset (Collins) GENRE: Action & Adventure, Romance, Comedy LOCATION: Vancouver, Canada RUNNING TIME: 120 minutes TEChNICAL ASSESSMENT: MORAL ASSESSMENT: Cinema Rating: For viewers 18 years old and above
SYNOPSIS: The worlds deadliest CIA operatives are inseparable partners and best friends until they fall for the same woman. Having once helped bring down entire enemy nations, they are now employing their incomparable skills and an endless array of hightech gadgetry against their greatest nemesis ever - each other.
Vol. 16 No. 5
CBCP Monitor
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On Friday, February 17, the normally tranquil city of Tagbilaran, Bohol became busy as around 6500 delegates coming from different countries all over the world gathered in the Carlos P Garcia Sports Complex for the 19th Singles for Christ Great God ICON (International Conference). The three-day event started with the sports competition, held after the opening worship led by Arbie Padilla, SFC fulltime worker for Metro Manila. Competitions in basketball, badminton and the Great God Amazing Panglao Race were then conducted simultaneously, providing great fun for all. Neil Balite, CFC Provincial Area Director of Bohol, welcomed the participants, as did Governor Edgar Chatto who invited everyone to see Bohols scenic spots. Shok Ariola, SFC International Coordinator, pressed the gigantic remote control marking the opening of the 19th SFC ICON. The Loboc Youth Ambassadors then presented amazing musical renditions ranging from Michael Jackson songs to the Star Wars theme. Noli Manuel, missionary to the Middle East, gave the first talk: GREAT GOD. Noli said that we can live a great life by being GRATEFUL in all things, by being READY for the mission, by being EXCITED for the future, by being ASSURED of Gods providence and by TRUSTING God completely. Noli enjoined the SFCs to not settle for the mediocre but always aspire for what God deems best for you. The ICONs first night ended with a closing worship
Mesiona shared during his homily that the only way to go is to be truly humble. He added that Mary, in her Magnificat, proclaimed Gods greatness, but she did not see Gods greatness using the worlds standards but through the eyes of faith. Using a combination of rap, personal stories and laugh out loud humor, Fr. John Paul Del Rosario (pictured above), or Fr. Rap-rap as he is commonly known,
FOR some Singles for Christ (SFC) members, the pre-SFC International Conference (dubbed Icon) activity is like a reunion, a time to reconnect with brothers and sisters, after months of just communicating via social networking sites. But, at this years pre-Icon, there was another dimension to the reconnecting part. Over a hundred SFC brothers and sisters geared up for this years SFC Voluntourisms Great EcoAdventure in Calape, Bohol last February 15 to 17, 2012.
gave the second talk: Theres Something About Mary. He talked about how we are all called to mirror Mary`s beauty - a beauty that comes from being FAVORED and LIVING out this favor. He added that Marys beauty mirrors the love of God for the world a universal love that embraces all. Para kanino ka bumabangon? was the opening question of Rea Santos of CFC West A, for the third talk Mary, Me? Rea said that Mary is the perfect disciple to follow. Rea shared her conviction that becoming like Mary is choosing God and trusting Him completely. Sharers Pat Ballecer, Julius Comia, Jojit Villar and Mike Santos affirmed that its only through choosing God and trusting Him completely that they were able to overcome their difficulties, heal their pains and become victorious in God. As the session came to an end, the delegates were asked to write their own prayer and drop it in the intercessory box. Goi Villegas, YFC Metro Manila Head ended the night with a powerful worship. Bishop Leandro Medroso celebrated
the Holy Mass for the SFC ICON on Sunday. He explained that the modern sickness of emptiness is experienced because we do not have God. This void can be filled only by God but oftentimes, sin keeps us from letting God fill that void. He encouraged everyone to pray and to pray even harder. He also reminded everyone to receive the sacraments regularly especially Holy Communion. Winding down the 19th SFC ICON with the fourth talk Proclaim the Greatness of the Lord, Shok Ariola encouraged everyone to live a life that will allow others to experience Christ by proclaiming the greatness of the Lord through the way we speak, we dress, and the way we live our life. Minnie Juan, a household head who is actively serving in her parish, shared how she proclaims Gods greatness through service despite being blind. Scott Lanete, a former YFC UP Manila Campus President and now the youngest congressman in the Philippines, proclaims Gods greatness through leading. Lastly, Athena Imperial, an SFC member who is currently the Ms. Earth Water International title holder, proclaims Gods greatness through the way she lives her life. She described how on the pageant coronation night, she surprised people backstage because she prayed aloud, "Sa gabing `to, Kayo ang lumalaban para sa akin! (Tonight, You are the one fighting for me)." Ariola ended the weekend with a simple but powerful message - Even as ordinary people, we are called to live out the Magnificat boldly everyday. Adrian Enaje, SFC Full Time Worker for Metro Manila and the ICON event head, led the praisefest that officially ended the conference.
After sharing their realizations and lessons with one another, and closing the weekend activities with a powerful worship, the pre-Icon volunteers went to Tagbilaran City for the SFC ICon. They knew though that the spirit of volunteerism does not end in Calape, Bohol. Every delegate would bring home experiences and lessons learned to their respective mission areas their chapters, their communities, their homes and continue to serve wherever and whenever God would call them.
are experiencing blessing upon blessing, affirmation after affirmation in all areas of our life and mission. We see before us a wider field of harvest for the Lord, the ANCOP Chairman said. Eric Villanueva gave a session on The Habits of Effective Relationship Generosity, Maturity, Trust and Empathy. He said that developing these habits will be key to the success of our programs as we establish relationships with ANCOP partners and beneficiaries. Eric De los Reyes led the discussion on CFC ANCOPs work with the poor. Elmer
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By Melo Villaroman, Jr., CFC Director
Ugnayan
By Joe Yamamoto
CBCP Monitor
February 27 - March 11, 2012
Vol. 16 No. 5
ANCOP President Eric de los Reyes (second from right) accepts a check from NE Luzon regional head Eric Ylagan as Elmer Cadiz (extreme left) and Rudy Lubis look on.
Program, ANCOPs flagship project, were thoroughly discussed by Efren Tompong who also explained the requirements and rules/guidelines under the program. Eric Ylagan, Northeastern Luzon Regional Head, stressed the importance of the ANCOP programs as a way to proclaim the greatness of God among
the poor. Rizal Ting defined the goals/ objectives and expectations from the congress. Eric de los Reyes talked about ANCOP directions, programs and updates on the CSP, community development (shelter), health and livelihood. On livelihood, he presented the interconnectivity and linkages of the different provinces with and
through the CFC Covenanted Enterprise (CACE). Elmer Cadiz and Rudy Lubis spoke of their involvement with ANCOP livelihood through the trading of grains between Isabela Norde (NORDE) Grains Trading Company and Batangas. The congress was highlighted by the signing between NORDE (represented by Elmer Cadiz) as CACE livelihood enterprise with ANCOP (represented by Eric de los Reyes). In compliance with the CACE agreement, a check for P6,000.00 was issued to CFC ANCOP representing NORDEs ten (10) percent contribution from its operating profit. Another check for the same amount was given to Couples for Christ as 10% tithe contribution from the company. The participants were instructed to conduct their provincial team planning on the implementation of ANCOP programs in their respective areas this year. Eric Ylagan delivered the prayer for empowerment to all the participants, a fitting ending to the short but fruitful ANCOP congress.
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 16 No. 5
February 27 - March 11, 2012
Ugnayan
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By Jun Uriarte
By Lance Fernandez
HUNDREDS of leaders of Couples for Christ and its family ministries gathered at the Christ the King Parish, Green Meadows, Pasig last February 21, 2012 to hear Bishop Broderick Pabillo, D.D., Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Manila, speak of the Churchs Verbum Domini. The teaching began with a presentation by the host sector, Central A and a powerful worship led by Voltz Lizardo, KFC Coordinator for CFC-Central A. The Verbum Domini is the Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation of Pope Benedict XVI. Since the time of Pope Paul VI, synods are conducted every four years among selected bishops from around the world to discuss a certain topic. Synods are conducted to consult bishops on improvements for the Catholic Church and to deepen the collegiality among the religious. Synods are also considered as official teaching of the Church and are passed on to the laity. The synod on the Verbum Domini was attended by 253 bishopdelegates from around the world. Out of this number, Europe had the biggest delegation with 90 followed by the Americas with 62. The African continent had 51 delegates while Asia and Oceania had 41 and nine delegates
is the source of guidance and inspiration for Catholics. The Verbum Domini also clarified that the Word of God is greater than the concept of the Holy Bible. Rather, the Word can be divided into seven facets. The first element of the Word of God is the Logos or the Word as stated in John 1:1 and Verbum Domini 1. The second is the voice of creation wherein the early believers knew and felt God even though they could not read or write. The third is the word of men and women such as the prophets, apostles and saints throughout salvation history. According to Bishop Pabillo, the fourth meaning of the Word of God is Jesus Christ which is the Incarnate Word. The fifth meaning pertains to the living
tradition of the Church while the sixth nature of the Word of God refers to the Holy Bible which is the written word. The seventh nature of the Word of God is the conscience of the believer. Throughout the teaching, Bishop Pabillo pointed out key parts of the Verbum Domini. On Verbum Domini 7, he mentioned that the Catholic religion is not limited to the Holy Bible but includes all facets of the Word of God. He added that these manifestations of God's Word exist because they are all part of God's plan to advance His cause on Earth. Bishop Pabillo also mentioned that Christianity is not acquired by performing certain beliefs but through the encounter with Jesus which is the center of the cosmos and of history. Jesus should be the
CFC Participates in Pregnancy Support Services of Asia (PSSA) 1st Regional Conference and Training
By Allison Gozun and Tina Santiago-Rodriguez
SOME 130 participants gathered at St. Michaels Retreat Centre in Antipolo City on February 3 to 5, 2012, to attend the Heart to Serve - 1st Regional Conference and Training organized by Pregnancy Support Services of Asia (PSSA), in partnership with the CBCP Episcopal Commission on Health Care; and in cooperation with Heartbeat International, the Commission on Family and Life of the Archdiocese of Manila, Serve Life Philippines and Couples for Christ (CFC). CFC leaders Mon Santiago, CFC South Asia Regional Head, and CFC Church Integration Office (CIO) Coordinator Clarke Nebrao were part of the organizing committee. CFC volunteers, mainly from the CFC Gift of Life Ministry headed by ministry core team members Aldy and Joy Katigbak and Charly Laiz were also tapped to serve in the secretariat, music ministry, logistics, liturgical and program committees. The conference was aimed at increasing awareness about the urgent need for pregnancy help centers (PHC) and the resources that PSSA can offer to expectant mothers in crisis. With its theme, Heart to Serve, the weekends focus was on equipping volunteers to love and serve the mothers and their unborn babies, and those who had undergone or been involved in abortions, through Christ-centered counseling. Participants included volunteers and members from the Family and Life Commissions/Committees of different parishes, vicariates and dioceses in Metro Manila and the nearby provinces (specifically: Batangas, Albay/Legaspi, Daet, Sorsogon, Cabanatuan, San Jose, Antipolo, Pasig, Pasay, Makati, Mandaluyong). Also present were representatives from various organizations and groups involved in the pro-life (or, as PSSA terms it, life-affirming) work. These included Serve Life Philippines, Buhay Party List, Tahanan ng Pagmamahal Orphanage, the Grace To Be Born pregnancy crisis center and Central Luzon University. On Friday evening, Fr. Joel O. Jason, STL (Commissioner of the Commission on Family and Life of the Archdiocese of Manila) provided participants with insights on the value of human life, and Gods divine plan in its creation, with reference to Blessed John Paul IIs encyclical, Evangelium Vitae. Saturday morning began with the keynote address from Mr. Jor-El Godsey, Vice President for Affiliates of Heartbeat International. He stated that abortion is a gospel issue, and that pregnancy health centers have opportunities for intervention and prevention for women who are considering abortion, or reconciliation for those who have already suffered one. Participants were then educated about pregnancy, from physiological events to emotional and practical concerns, including ways of approaching specific situations. The LOVE Approach in counseling was discussed in detail by PSSA board members Ms. Lucita Tagle and Mrs. Naomi David. The Celebration of the Holy Eucharist prior to lunch on Saturday, led by Most Rev. Rolando Octavus Joven Tria Tirona, OCD, D.D., Chairman of the Office of Laity and Family of the Federation of Asian Bishops Conference (FABC), helped affirm the participants about the importance of including the Lord in the work that He has called them to do. The sessions on Saturday afternoon included training on how to deal with positive test and negative test clients, given by Mrs. Naomi David and Ms. Carol Angeline Perez, respectively. Ms. Perez also talked about the importance of introducing sexual integrity programs to clients and potential clients, especially young people at risk of getting pregnant outside of marriage. PSSA board member Dr. Orpah Marasigan, DVM, meanwhile, talked extensively about how to deal with clients with post abortion syndrome (PAS). The rector of the Pontifical Filipino College, Fr. Greg Gaston, also graced the event to give some encouraging remarks to those gathered. On the last day of the conference, Mrs.
Lily Perez, the founder and president of PSSA, giave the session on HEART i.e. Healing the Effects of Abortion Related Trauma. PSSA board members, Serve Life leaders and Doctors for Life members Dr. Nestor and Therese Lumicao, then gave participants step-bystep guidelines on how to set up a PHC. Dr. Marites Echavez shared how she was converted to the life-affirming work. From inserting IUDs into mothers, she and her team have now taken on the work of removing IUDs and helping mothers and families in need through the Little Bethlehem Birthing Center. Mr. Jor-El Godsey gave the participants important pointers and reminders on how to start the work for pregnant women in crisis. He emphasized that the most crucial things needed were prayer, people and practical support. Most Rev. Patrico Abella Buzon,
SDB, D.D., Chairman of the CBCP Episcopal Commission on Health Care, led the Sunday Eucharistic Celebration, which fittingly coincided with Pro-Life Sunday. Bishop Buzon applauded those gathered for their commitment to the work for life, and encouraged all to move forward in faith in the fight against the culture of death, especially against the RH Bill. He particularly commended CFC for its mission to promote the Lords work. Before the conference ended, participants were given time to make and present their initial action plans, as part of the conference output. For more information about Heartbeat - Pregnancy Support Services of Asia (Heartbeat - PSSA), please log on to www.heartbeatasia.com.
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By Bernie Cuevas
BY the second day of CFCs MindanaONE: United in Love and Hope, we fully grasped THE GREATNESS of Gods plan for the massive work to bring the CFC fullness of life in Christ through our partnership with public schools. MindanaONE: United in Love and Hope is the first CFC ANCOP Comprehensive school-based response for Sendong Victims. It was launched in Balulang Elementary School in Lower Balulang, Cagayan de Oro City on February 25, 2012, which fittingly coincided with the EDSA 1 anniversary. The CFC family in CDO came together to make the MindanaONE Project a reality with the help of ANCOP and the Cornerstone Team from Manila led by Ruel Aguirre of the Evangelization and Missions Office (EMO), Bernie Cuevas, Cornerstone Coordinator, and Rizal Ting, ANCOP COO. The Balulang community was hard hit by ceiling high raging flood waters that destroyed homes. The flood waters also damaged the elementary school walls, the classrooms and everything in it including chairs, tables, books, school supplies and computers . Of the 1,800 student population, 8 children are still missing and only one body was recovered. The calamity left a fearful group of families feeling uncertain about the future. The preparation for the launch of MindanaONE received an exciting boost when no less than Apl.de.ap of the Black Eyed Peas made an appearance in Balulang Elementary School last February 24 as his own group also broke ground for the construction of a new 2-story school building in the same school. He shares with us a common passion in the belief that education is the key out of poverty. Upon the request of Michael Shok Ariola, SFC Head, he gamely enjoined all Singles for Christ to give back to the community especially in rebuilding the school. The activity started with the praying of the rosary. The volunteers were then divided into various working groups. Some were involved in clean up, the others in perimeter fence repair, plastering, demolition, gardening and training for Cornerstone facilitators for Kids and High School Values Formation, Reading Tutorials and Parenting Formation. One of the biggest group of volunteers came from Handmaids of the Lord members who came in Ang Ganda MO shirts and immediately took charge of the gardening and attended the various facilitators trainings. The SFC, YFC and KFC were well represented. Couples for Christ leaders in CDO led by Jun Waga and Jinggoy Acebu spearheaded all the activities, preparations and coordination with school principal Mrs. Anita Gomez who was also a CFC member and Barangay Captain Alfredo Carcosa who helped set up the stage for the program. All together, about 600 volunteers came to join in the activity. Some came from Iligan and even from the Middle East. We were all amazed to see the Balulang community members, both Christian and Moslem, also participating in the rehabilitation of their own school. The older children helped to clear up the debris by using the debris to fill up the low areas that accumulated water every time it rained. The parents were also seen sweeping the grounds. At the end of the day, after all the demolition, plastering, gardening and other activities, the school ground was so clean and neat. The first day ended with a beautiful healing concert by the Joshua Band led by Mike Serapio whose group drove all the way from Davao to give their all and glorify the Lord and His healing power during the concert. The principal shared during the concert about the devastation in Balulang and how the Lord has been their source of strength and hope. She ended by saying that with Couples for Christ behind the school, she felt that she was nakasandal sa pader (standing on firm ground). Sunday morning was devoted to the
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 16 No. 5
Family Fair. The day started with a mass followed by the various social services for the school children and their families. CFC partnered with the Philippine Dental Association for the dental mission. The CFC doctors and nurses did their part in doing medical consultations. Massage therapists trained through ANCOP Livelihood also made their services available. But what was most exciting for the children, more than 600 of them, was the viewing of a childrens movie highlighting teamwork and obedience. The movie was followed by a teaching on values from the film. What really excited the children was the culminating activity a Jollibee party complete with food, fun games, dancing and the arrival of the Jollibee mascot. The two-day activity was seen on cfcevents.co.cc through live streaming and real time reporting in CFC social media accounts. The team received some on line donations right on the spot for the ongoing rehabilitation program. The MindanaONE is a blessing of the Lord that allowed all CFC and the various family ministries in CDO to come together in love and commitment to help those in need and to extend the love of God to the victims of Typhoon Sendong. It was also a wonderful ex-
perience for our bigger community to fellowship and bond with each other while sharing the joy of serving and seeing CFC and all its Ministries working together as one. We see MindanaONE as a model for CFC for a school based community building, right in line with our massive mission to build the church of the home and the church of the poor. The launch is just the beginning of our long term commitment to the school through the CFC ANCOP Cornerstone and Scholarships Program. The school principal of the High School has in fact appealed to CFC and ANCOP for help in the replacement of the computers for their Information Technology Unit. This can also become our entry for our e-learning thrust to bring the KHAN Academy modules as enhancement tutorial materials in science and math for High School students. CFC and ANCOP continue to accept donations for the victims of calamities. MindanaONe will also be launched in PNROA, another school in CDO which is the catchment school for the children in the tent city, and in Iligan on April 21. We also pray for an opportunity to reach out to the victims of the earthquake in Negros Oriental using the same model.
Fr. Max Gatela, (front, second from right), pose with LDP attendees and Program Head Joe Yamamoto (extreme right).
Fr. Gatela highlighted that by the time of the Pentecost, the apostles were already community and as such, were ready to receive the Holy Spirit. The challenge, thereafter, was to expand the very same community and bring it to the ends of the world. In the process, leaders came out, elected by Christ Himself, so that the communitythe body of Christ will continue to be the living presence of Christ in our world. Fr. Gatela concluded that a leader may be brilliant, but without relationality, he cannot lead. It is relational-
ity that sustains all the other gifts that God has given us. Prior to the lecture, CFC Executive Director Melo Villaroman, described the LDP as a priceless gift we in CFC should open fully and make full use of. A leaders workshop, facilitated by Roland Arrogante, was also conducted. The session was capped by a talk by CFC International Council member and LDP Head Joe Yamamoto on the Biblical Model of Leadership Multiplication, which was followed by the Sacrifice of the Holy Mass, celebrated by Fr. Gatela.
By Beth Comahig
devastating floods brought by typhoon Sendong and later to Negros Oriental after a strong earthquake damaged the water system. The flood and earthquake victims could not believe that muddy water could be converted into pure water which, as one astounded victim exclaimed, was tastier and cleaner than their usual water supply. Together with Couples for Christ International Council, ANCOP Global will become the prime mover for clean water in disaster areas anywhere in the Philippines in cooperation with Lifesaver.
AN estimated 300 members of CFC and its Family Ministries from the Metro Manila East A sector gathered at the Sienna College of Taytay Gym for the On Fire Sector Evangelization Rally, which began with a motorcade coming from the different areas covered by the four CFC clusters. Chito Cubacub, CFC East A Family Ministries Head, formally opened the afternoon activity with worship. George Campos, CFC East A Sector Head, then gave the welcome exhortation, emphasizing the response of
Catholic Church. New generation (of leaders) Fullness (in embracing not just personal relationship with the Lord, but the work with the poor) International (the global nature of CFC) Relevant life and formation. (our communitys pastoral formation and unique lifestyle) Effective governance and stewardship. (the need for leaders to practice Christian leadership, responsibility and accountability) The event ended with the Holy Eucharist, celebrated by Fr. Gino Santos.
By Lisa Santiago-Bobiles
THE annual CFC Brunei Leaders Conference, an echo of the CFC Leaders Conference that is usually held in the Philippines during the month of January, was held on February 5, 2012, at the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption (COLA) parish in Bandar Seri Begawan, attended by over a hundred CFC Brunei community leaders from all over Brunei. CFC Bruneis Spiritual Director, Bishop Cornelius Sim, anchoring on the communitys chosen theme from Luke 1:46,