Uncertainty
by Jesa Christine Capagal
If you ever watched the story of “Pocahontas” or the movie “A New World”, this story won’t be unfamiliar to you. There was once this missionary who tracked down Indian folks residing in the forest. After her mission, she was accompanied by a group of natives on her way home. Along their way, they came across a river with a big log to walk through to get to the other side. This scene gave the missionary the shivers. She was so afraid. She asked them if there is another way they could trail to get to the other side. They responded with a “Yes” and explained that they have to climb down the falls at the end of the river and walk a few miles further to get across. Then, the Indians told the missionary that they had to spend a night in the forest if they would go that way. Finally, they just decided to cross the river on that big log. As the missionary stepped on the log, her heart pounded harder with each step. She couldn’t help but stare down until one of the Indians held her hand lightly. She never thought that with that light touch, she would be at ease to cross the river. It was on the other side that she realized if she had slipped, the way the native had hold her hand wouldn’t be enough to grip her so she won’t fall. But that soft and certain touch gave her confidence to cross the river.
God gave us the options to choose from in order for us to decide. However, in life it isn’t always easy. Circumstances that often we say God’s instructions aren’t clear will express that God just gave us a soft but certain light. A small hope but if we see life through God’s light, life would be certain that for us waiting for Him would have a place in His promised kingdom.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Mama Mary -Through the Years
Mama Mary -Through the Years
by Pureza D. Lacuesta
During my childhood days, I always waited eagerly for those Sundays when my father would take me with him to attend special celebrations for the Blessed Mother, which were usually highlighted with public adoration and a procession.
My first devotion was to our Lady of Lourdes. Since my parents loved our Lady so much, I was influenced by them and tried to imitate them. Every night, my spinster aunt led the rosary and made us kneel throughout the prayer. If we got a little lazy to sustain the kneeling position, or else, yawn, she would pinch our buttocks and we were forced to assume the kneeling position.
Since I was a bit naughty in my young years, I was sent to study at the Colegio de la Inmaculada Concepcion, right in our town of Pototan, which is the Mother House of the Hijas de Jesus in the Philippines. It was run by the Spanish nuns who were very strict and emphasized the teaching of religion, plus its practice. Every Thursday, we were taught the doctrine and were made to study and understand the gospel for the coming Sunday. Every part of the Mass was repeatedly explained to us and proper behavior in Church was always emphasized.
Our Lady of the Inmaculada Concepcion was and still is, the Patroness of the school. Every December 8, which is her feast, we have the altar-decorating contests, the singing of the “Mil Albricias” and “poesias”. As I look back through the years, my eyes fill with tears as I remember how the nuns, leaving their home in pain, did their utmost to form us into fervent devotees of Mama Mary. We, in the High School level were trained as catechists.
I grew fervent in my devotion to Mary and when the icon of Our Lady of Fatima from Portugal was brought to Pototan in 1949 through the efforts of our Mayor, we were made to pray to her in groups and my love for her grew to big proportions. I wanted to do something for her. I knew that in God’s own time, I would be able to do it.
In 1950, my dream materialized. My husband, who was a Mary devotee himself, made arrangements with then Msgr. Ciceron Martirez to start a Rosary Crusade in Barangay Igang, Pototan. This launched our family apostolate. Picking up the momentum with the late Msgr. Salvador Esmero and with the support of Archbishop Piamonte, we went to the other towns and even in the city to spread the devotion to the Holy Rosary. Calumpang became our seat in the city with the help of the Parish Priest, and Bro. Bert, Sis. Delia, Sis. Puring, Bro. Edwin, and Bro. Nelson.
Today, I’m too old to go to the mountains for the apostolate. My prayer now is: “Please letme spend therest of my days doing my apostolate through my pen, oh Lord.”
Before I write my oration and declamation pieces, I always invoke the Holy Spirit to give me light and to influence my article, so that through indirect means, I can still be His little instrument through Mary.
by Pureza D. Lacuesta
During my childhood days, I always waited eagerly for those Sundays when my father would take me with him to attend special celebrations for the Blessed Mother, which were usually highlighted with public adoration and a procession.
My first devotion was to our Lady of Lourdes. Since my parents loved our Lady so much, I was influenced by them and tried to imitate them. Every night, my spinster aunt led the rosary and made us kneel throughout the prayer. If we got a little lazy to sustain the kneeling position, or else, yawn, she would pinch our buttocks and we were forced to assume the kneeling position.
Since I was a bit naughty in my young years, I was sent to study at the Colegio de la Inmaculada Concepcion, right in our town of Pototan, which is the Mother House of the Hijas de Jesus in the Philippines. It was run by the Spanish nuns who were very strict and emphasized the teaching of religion, plus its practice. Every Thursday, we were taught the doctrine and were made to study and understand the gospel for the coming Sunday. Every part of the Mass was repeatedly explained to us and proper behavior in Church was always emphasized.
Our Lady of the Inmaculada Concepcion was and still is, the Patroness of the school. Every December 8, which is her feast, we have the altar-decorating contests, the singing of the “Mil Albricias” and “poesias”. As I look back through the years, my eyes fill with tears as I remember how the nuns, leaving their home in pain, did their utmost to form us into fervent devotees of Mama Mary. We, in the High School level were trained as catechists.
I grew fervent in my devotion to Mary and when the icon of Our Lady of Fatima from Portugal was brought to Pototan in 1949 through the efforts of our Mayor, we were made to pray to her in groups and my love for her grew to big proportions. I wanted to do something for her. I knew that in God’s own time, I would be able to do it.
In 1950, my dream materialized. My husband, who was a Mary devotee himself, made arrangements with then Msgr. Ciceron Martirez to start a Rosary Crusade in Barangay Igang, Pototan. This launched our family apostolate. Picking up the momentum with the late Msgr. Salvador Esmero and with the support of Archbishop Piamonte, we went to the other towns and even in the city to spread the devotion to the Holy Rosary. Calumpang became our seat in the city with the help of the Parish Priest, and Bro. Bert, Sis. Delia, Sis. Puring, Bro. Edwin, and Bro. Nelson.
Today, I’m too old to go to the mountains for the apostolate. My prayer now is: “Please letme spend therest of my days doing my apostolate through my pen, oh Lord.”
Before I write my oration and declamation pieces, I always invoke the Holy Spirit to give me light and to influence my article, so that through indirect means, I can still be His little instrument through Mary.
Church and BEC Culture
Church and BEC Culture
Excerpts from the booklet, “Church and BEC Culture)
Msgr. Joemarie S.Delgado
Evangelization is the Church’s deepest VOCATION and MISSION.1 The CHURCH exists to PROCLAIM the GOOD NEWS of the FATHER’S LIFE in JESUS CHRIST through the HOLY SPIRIT to the World in order for it to attain SALVATION.
When the Church evangelizes, she acknowledges that her whole life is CENTERED in the TRINITY. She originates from it, is sustained by it, and is directed towards full COMMUNION with it at the end of time! The TRINITY is the source and pattern of the Life of the Church.2
The Church actualizes this Trinitarian Life in her Life of COMMUNION and MISSION.
This is mainly concretized in the Local Church today in her efforts to build and sustain Communion of Communities through the promotion of UNITY in faith, hope, and love in, through, and around the Hierarchy; enhancement of DIVERSITY of roles and charisms of priests and lay in the building up of the Church; recognition of EQUALITY in DIGNITY of all the baptized; and consistent SHARING and PARTICIPATION in the Mission of Salvation as identified and pursued by the Christian Communities.3
The primary resource, thus, from which the movement of renewing the life of the Church would come, is not external but internal to the various levels of her life. There is an inner dynamism of the Trinitarian Life at work in the Church (parish/diocese) – with the direct participation of the hierarchy and laity – transforming the Church’s life into a deeper experience of Communion and Mission! In this regard, the renewal of the life of faith of the community from within becomes truly empowering for it makes everyone a “stakeholder” in the mission of Evangelization.
Through all this, our conviction is that, as the Parish integrates the culture of BECs (which, by the way, does not come along at all easy) she is renewed in her fundamental life as a Church. BEC thus, is not a “foreign element” or an “appendix” but is a birthright in the Church. Her becoming into a communion of small communities is a genuine growth towards maturity in faith. The sustainability, thus, of BEC is vital as it is growth promoting for the life and ministry of the Local Church. It is a challenge for us to promote essential elements of BEC Culture, and help bring about a paradigm of partnership and co-responsibility through structures to sustain BECs through the following elements:
Four Elements of BEC Culture
The creative movement of evangelization in the Parish starts from what is basic – the home and neighborhood. With the chapel perhaps as its center, families in the neighborhood organize themselves into clusters of cells, building their life with more pronounced marks of the Church of Communion.
UNITY (Pakikipagka-isa) in Faith, Hope and Love in, through and around the Hierarcy; DIVERSITY (Pakikipag-ugnayan sa iba) of roles and charisms of the lay and clergy in the building of the Church. EQUALITY in DIGNITY (Pakikipag-kapwa) of all the Baptized. SHARING and PARTICIPATION (Pakikipagdamayan/Bayanihan) in the Mission of Salvation.
1. Pakikipagka-isa (Paghiliusa): Coming from various social classes, families in the neighborhood are organized into cells growing in personal relationships, in cooperative planning, and in the joy of celebrating together the sacraments, especially the EUCHARIST. Moreover, they are organically linked with other cells to the wider life and ministry of the Parish around their Parish Priest. This neighborhood community is usually facilitated by a regular meeting in one of the houses of the members led by their own local leader, where they pray the scriptures as a family. Such regular “faith-sharing” where hearts are opened, unique charisms are recognized and appreciated; conflicts are resolved; consensus for actions are done; and resources are shared bring different families together to an experience of deep communion and sharing in the neighborhood, the parish, and beyond. (cf. Eph 4:5, Phil 2:1-5, 1Cor 12, Lumen Gentium #4)
2. Pakikipag-ugnayan sa iba (Paghili-angot/Paghili-ugyon): In this neighborhood community, a variety of roles and charisms are discovered, recognized and respected. Therefore each one is encouraged to share, contribute, and cooperate with the thought that what he has is no lesser a gift than the others. Each contribution is an essential part in the completion of a more integrated and wholesome experience of community life. Within the neighborhood cells, there is hope of a rich display of charisms for leadersip and ministries in the areas of catechesis, worship-devotion, service, temporalities or finance, etc. (cf Eph 4:1-16, Jn 17:20-23). Bringing out these charisms, even if the neighborhood is poor, is a significant sign that indeed there are hidden treasures from within our poverty. These riches shall become part of the foundation of a community growing in the experience of being empowered and part of the resources to be shared to the Parish Community.
3. Pakikipag-kapwa (Pagpakigbagay): The experience of meeting Jesus in person through personal or common prayer and sharing serves as the anchor in recognizing the presence of the risen Lord in their midst and in one another. Among members, self-respect as well as deep respect ad compassion for each other, regardless of social condition, is recovered and corresponding resources are generously channeled to sustain community life. “Knowing” Jesus this way raises their conviction that all belong as one, to “His Body” and He is truly the foundation of their life in the community (cf Gal 3:28, Lumen Gentium #32, Mt 23:8-12, James 2:2-4)
4. Pakikipagdamayan/Bayanihan (Pagbinuligay/Pagdagyaw): Being transformed in the process, members see to it that te lonely, sick, downtrodden, and impoverished in their neighborhood experience not only “prayer and praising” but the caring love of the Lord through them, His present-day disciples. Indeed, they have become convinced that Christian life is not a life lived in comfort zones but in being involved in the affairs of their local Church, environment, justice and a wider range of other social issues, putting into action the love they have received from Christ by serving one another, especially the poor, downtrodden, oppressed and lost. (cf. Acts 2:42-47, Acts 4:32-35/Acts 15:2-23, Gal 2:11-14, Mt 18:15-18)
At these marks of Christian life see light in the “grass roots”, we have examples of the “wheat” growing healthier than the “weeds”. CONVERSION towards a deeper Christian life is taking place and becoming the core-experience of the community, graced by God, through the efforts led by the members of the community. We see here, not only the birthing but the developing and the fostering of the paradigm of “Co-Responsibility and Partnership”. Here, we have a dynamic sign that an evangelized community is turning more concretely into an empowered, evangelizing “Community of Compassion”.
_______________
1Cf. Evangelii Nuntiandi, Apostolic Exhortation of His Holiness Pope John Paul VI on the Modern Wrld. p. 14.
2Cf. Second Vatican Council, Dogmatic Constitution on the Church, Lumen Gentium, #4, par. 2.
3Ibid. #4, pars. 30-34.
Msgr. Joemarie S.Delgado, M.A.
Excerpts from the booklet, “Church and BEC Culture)
Msgr. Joemarie S.Delgado
Evangelization is the Church’s deepest VOCATION and MISSION.1 The CHURCH exists to PROCLAIM the GOOD NEWS of the FATHER’S LIFE in JESUS CHRIST through the HOLY SPIRIT to the World in order for it to attain SALVATION.
When the Church evangelizes, she acknowledges that her whole life is CENTERED in the TRINITY. She originates from it, is sustained by it, and is directed towards full COMMUNION with it at the end of time! The TRINITY is the source and pattern of the Life of the Church.2
The Church actualizes this Trinitarian Life in her Life of COMMUNION and MISSION.
This is mainly concretized in the Local Church today in her efforts to build and sustain Communion of Communities through the promotion of UNITY in faith, hope, and love in, through, and around the Hierarchy; enhancement of DIVERSITY of roles and charisms of priests and lay in the building up of the Church; recognition of EQUALITY in DIGNITY of all the baptized; and consistent SHARING and PARTICIPATION in the Mission of Salvation as identified and pursued by the Christian Communities.3
The primary resource, thus, from which the movement of renewing the life of the Church would come, is not external but internal to the various levels of her life. There is an inner dynamism of the Trinitarian Life at work in the Church (parish/diocese) – with the direct participation of the hierarchy and laity – transforming the Church’s life into a deeper experience of Communion and Mission! In this regard, the renewal of the life of faith of the community from within becomes truly empowering for it makes everyone a “stakeholder” in the mission of Evangelization.
Through all this, our conviction is that, as the Parish integrates the culture of BECs (which, by the way, does not come along at all easy) she is renewed in her fundamental life as a Church. BEC thus, is not a “foreign element” or an “appendix” but is a birthright in the Church. Her becoming into a communion of small communities is a genuine growth towards maturity in faith. The sustainability, thus, of BEC is vital as it is growth promoting for the life and ministry of the Local Church. It is a challenge for us to promote essential elements of BEC Culture, and help bring about a paradigm of partnership and co-responsibility through structures to sustain BECs through the following elements:
Four Elements of BEC Culture
The creative movement of evangelization in the Parish starts from what is basic – the home and neighborhood. With the chapel perhaps as its center, families in the neighborhood organize themselves into clusters of cells, building their life with more pronounced marks of the Church of Communion.
UNITY (Pakikipagka-isa) in Faith, Hope and Love in, through and around the Hierarcy; DIVERSITY (Pakikipag-ugnayan sa iba) of roles and charisms of the lay and clergy in the building of the Church. EQUALITY in DIGNITY (Pakikipag-kapwa) of all the Baptized. SHARING and PARTICIPATION (Pakikipagdamayan/Bayanihan) in the Mission of Salvation.
1. Pakikipagka-isa (Paghiliusa): Coming from various social classes, families in the neighborhood are organized into cells growing in personal relationships, in cooperative planning, and in the joy of celebrating together the sacraments, especially the EUCHARIST. Moreover, they are organically linked with other cells to the wider life and ministry of the Parish around their Parish Priest. This neighborhood community is usually facilitated by a regular meeting in one of the houses of the members led by their own local leader, where they pray the scriptures as a family. Such regular “faith-sharing” where hearts are opened, unique charisms are recognized and appreciated; conflicts are resolved; consensus for actions are done; and resources are shared bring different families together to an experience of deep communion and sharing in the neighborhood, the parish, and beyond. (cf. Eph 4:5, Phil 2:1-5, 1Cor 12, Lumen Gentium #4)
2. Pakikipag-ugnayan sa iba (Paghili-angot/Paghili-ugyon): In this neighborhood community, a variety of roles and charisms are discovered, recognized and respected. Therefore each one is encouraged to share, contribute, and cooperate with the thought that what he has is no lesser a gift than the others. Each contribution is an essential part in the completion of a more integrated and wholesome experience of community life. Within the neighborhood cells, there is hope of a rich display of charisms for leadersip and ministries in the areas of catechesis, worship-devotion, service, temporalities or finance, etc. (cf Eph 4:1-16, Jn 17:20-23). Bringing out these charisms, even if the neighborhood is poor, is a significant sign that indeed there are hidden treasures from within our poverty. These riches shall become part of the foundation of a community growing in the experience of being empowered and part of the resources to be shared to the Parish Community.
3. Pakikipag-kapwa (Pagpakigbagay): The experience of meeting Jesus in person through personal or common prayer and sharing serves as the anchor in recognizing the presence of the risen Lord in their midst and in one another. Among members, self-respect as well as deep respect ad compassion for each other, regardless of social condition, is recovered and corresponding resources are generously channeled to sustain community life. “Knowing” Jesus this way raises their conviction that all belong as one, to “His Body” and He is truly the foundation of their life in the community (cf Gal 3:28, Lumen Gentium #32, Mt 23:8-12, James 2:2-4)
4. Pakikipagdamayan/Bayanihan (Pagbinuligay/Pagdagyaw): Being transformed in the process, members see to it that te lonely, sick, downtrodden, and impoverished in their neighborhood experience not only “prayer and praising” but the caring love of the Lord through them, His present-day disciples. Indeed, they have become convinced that Christian life is not a life lived in comfort zones but in being involved in the affairs of their local Church, environment, justice and a wider range of other social issues, putting into action the love they have received from Christ by serving one another, especially the poor, downtrodden, oppressed and lost. (cf. Acts 2:42-47, Acts 4:32-35/Acts 15:2-23, Gal 2:11-14, Mt 18:15-18)
At these marks of Christian life see light in the “grass roots”, we have examples of the “wheat” growing healthier than the “weeds”. CONVERSION towards a deeper Christian life is taking place and becoming the core-experience of the community, graced by God, through the efforts led by the members of the community. We see here, not only the birthing but the developing and the fostering of the paradigm of “Co-Responsibility and Partnership”. Here, we have a dynamic sign that an evangelized community is turning more concretely into an empowered, evangelizing “Community of Compassion”.
_______________
1Cf. Evangelii Nuntiandi, Apostolic Exhortation of His Holiness Pope John Paul VI on the Modern Wrld. p. 14.
2Cf. Second Vatican Council, Dogmatic Constitution on the Church, Lumen Gentium, #4, par. 2.
3Ibid. #4, pars. 30-34.
Msgr. Joemarie S.Delgado, M.A.
Friday, January 23, 2009
Noypi
"Noypi"
by Rev. Fr. Philip Vincent S. Sinco
On January 22, 2009, we started the Annual Pilgrimage in preparation for the Fiesta Celebration of our Parish. Our first stop was Brgy. Desamparados and we started everything with an interactive game- we divided them into three groups and we asked them to build a church using the materials we indicated in the proceedings of the game. We were so happy with the outcome of the activity because we came up with significant learnings that coincided with the invitation we presented to the participating families who committed themselves to receive the “urna”1. It is actually an initiative of the parish to establish basic ecclesial communities as we head on to the realization of our three-year pastoral program.
Looking back, I can’t help but recall those experiences I had in the parish where I was assigned several years ago. Indeed, the establishment of BEC became an avenue where people rediscovered faith, hope and love in their personal lives and these were made possible through our weekly faith sharing. I have mentioned before in my column that I was assigned in a slum area somewhere in Novaliches and I’d like to share one significant apostolate experience that awakened my senses to the importance of having a Basic Ecclesial Community in a particular baranggay.
This is what I wrote in my weekly ministry log:
July 23, 2006
The Philippine music scene is now having a “renaissance” with the rise of novelty/alternative bands whose songs reflect the artist’s view on life, love and survival. These became an instant hit for most Filipinos because one could easily identify himself with the lyrics. I personally like “Noypi” by Bamboo since it is very patriotic and timely especially nowadays where most of us are rather apathetic toward the condition of our country. More so, my experiences in the ministry would also affirm the core message of the song.
Tingnan mo iyong palad
Kalyado mong kamay sa hirap ng buhay
Ang dami mong problema, nakuha mo pang ngumiti
Noypi ka nga, astig
We arrived at the parish earlier despite the heavy rains. I was confident this time because I have prepared well for our usual BEC prayer session. When we arrived at the area, we waited for some group members to arrive and I had a hearty conversation with one of the coordinators. She was telling me about her struggles in life and how she managed to survive despite the many problems she encountered. She wasn’t able to attend last week’s session because she accompanied her siblings to Tanay, Rizal in order to check their ailing father. She admitted to me that in the past, they had a lot of grievances against him, but seeing him after long years of separation was enough to alleviate the hurts and the pains. I was inspired by her story because it was all about forgiveness and reconciliation. During our sharing, I asked the group to recall those instances where they learned how to sacrifice in order to uphold something which they truly value in their lives. I was happy because they were getting more spontaneous compared to the previous weeks. One particular testimony caught my attention. A woman, probably in her late forties shared to the group the recent ordeals in her family. She and her husband have no means of living. Her eldest son, who assumed the responsibility of being the breadwinner, got sick of an unexplainable disease. She wanted him to have a medical check up and be admitted in a hospital but they don’t have money to pay the bills. They were even having difficulties in sustaining their everyday food table. The only consolation she got was the support given to her by her neighbors, who at times, offer her some goods like food and clothes. Another story that struck me was the one told by the secretary of the group whose life was torn by the frequent arguments of her parents, which turned out to be very physical because in the latter, they were already beaten up harshly either by their father or mother. Although this time, she was able to free herself from the agony by leaving their place in Samar, nevertheless, the memories would still haunt her. Her consolation at the moment was her job as a factory worker that helped her make ends meet.
Upon listening to their stories, I thought all the while that the session would end up emotionally draining but I was bit surprised that they haven’t lost their cheerful mood, showing me that optimism that their experiences may be harrowing but it didn’t define their future. They just “charged it to experience”. I was deeply moved when they said that they were fully aware of their situation yet they never lost hope. Probably, this is the reason why they can still manage to smile, proof that we Filipinos value life so much that we find means of maintaining our joy amidst the sorrows. No wonder, we were considered as one of the happiest people on this planet because at times, instead of drowning ourselves with despair and misery, we can only laugh at our problems. I know that this reality has its own negative implications, but placing it in a proper context could teach one how to find meaning in his or her existence. I believe that the lyrics I’ve placed above are very appropriate for what is happening in our society.
Sinisid ko ang dagat, nalibot ko ang mundo
Nasa puso ko pala hinahanap kong pulo
Ilang beses na akong muntikang mamatay
Alam ko ang sikreto kaya’t nandito pa’t buhay
Sabi daw nila may anting-anting ako
Pero ‘di nila alam na ang Diyos ang dahilan ko
It is very striking on my part that profound faith in God has always been the battle cry of those who shared their experiences in the group. It is inspiring to hear testimonies on how their sad plights have encouraged them to establish deep relationship with the Father. They were telling me that somehow, prayer was responsible in preserving their sanities although there were instances that they were on the verge of losing everything. This conviction made me affirm that we Filipinos are indeed very religious people, not for the reason that we are always present in most church liturgies and devotions, but God becomes real as the problems we face each day and we cling to Him in times when we could no longer hold ourselves. We have always believed that God has this magnanimous and abiding force that moves us beyond our physicality and we turn to Him when the going gets rough.
Looking back at my various experiences in the apostolate, I still have a lot of reasons to be thankful for being born in this country imbued with rich cultural and religious heritage. Our history would attest that we have endured so much. The strife still persists. However, at the end of the day, though confronted with so much turmoil in the government and society , aggravated by various reactions of people toward the current status of Philippine economy and politics, I continue to give myself a deep sigh and say; “I’m still proud to be a NOYPI”…
1 An “URNA” is actually an image of Our Lady of Candles encased in a wooden box. This is usually given to the member-baranggays of the parish with the purpose of creating “celdas”. A “celda” should have at least fifteen (15) households wherein the image will be transferred every night and the household who will accommodate the “Urna” of Our Lady should pray the Holy Rosary. Aside from praying the Rosary, the “celda” also schedule a weekly faith sharing at the house of a family where the “urna” is situated. This was again re-introduced for the purpose of establishing Basic Ecclesial Communities.
by Rev. Fr. Philip Vincent S. Sinco
On January 22, 2009, we started the Annual Pilgrimage in preparation for the Fiesta Celebration of our Parish. Our first stop was Brgy. Desamparados and we started everything with an interactive game- we divided them into three groups and we asked them to build a church using the materials we indicated in the proceedings of the game. We were so happy with the outcome of the activity because we came up with significant learnings that coincided with the invitation we presented to the participating families who committed themselves to receive the “urna”1. It is actually an initiative of the parish to establish basic ecclesial communities as we head on to the realization of our three-year pastoral program.
Looking back, I can’t help but recall those experiences I had in the parish where I was assigned several years ago. Indeed, the establishment of BEC became an avenue where people rediscovered faith, hope and love in their personal lives and these were made possible through our weekly faith sharing. I have mentioned before in my column that I was assigned in a slum area somewhere in Novaliches and I’d like to share one significant apostolate experience that awakened my senses to the importance of having a Basic Ecclesial Community in a particular baranggay.
This is what I wrote in my weekly ministry log:
July 23, 2006
The Philippine music scene is now having a “renaissance” with the rise of novelty/alternative bands whose songs reflect the artist’s view on life, love and survival. These became an instant hit for most Filipinos because one could easily identify himself with the lyrics. I personally like “Noypi” by Bamboo since it is very patriotic and timely especially nowadays where most of us are rather apathetic toward the condition of our country. More so, my experiences in the ministry would also affirm the core message of the song.
Tingnan mo iyong palad
Kalyado mong kamay sa hirap ng buhay
Ang dami mong problema, nakuha mo pang ngumiti
Noypi ka nga, astig
We arrived at the parish earlier despite the heavy rains. I was confident this time because I have prepared well for our usual BEC prayer session. When we arrived at the area, we waited for some group members to arrive and I had a hearty conversation with one of the coordinators. She was telling me about her struggles in life and how she managed to survive despite the many problems she encountered. She wasn’t able to attend last week’s session because she accompanied her siblings to Tanay, Rizal in order to check their ailing father. She admitted to me that in the past, they had a lot of grievances against him, but seeing him after long years of separation was enough to alleviate the hurts and the pains. I was inspired by her story because it was all about forgiveness and reconciliation. During our sharing, I asked the group to recall those instances where they learned how to sacrifice in order to uphold something which they truly value in their lives. I was happy because they were getting more spontaneous compared to the previous weeks. One particular testimony caught my attention. A woman, probably in her late forties shared to the group the recent ordeals in her family. She and her husband have no means of living. Her eldest son, who assumed the responsibility of being the breadwinner, got sick of an unexplainable disease. She wanted him to have a medical check up and be admitted in a hospital but they don’t have money to pay the bills. They were even having difficulties in sustaining their everyday food table. The only consolation she got was the support given to her by her neighbors, who at times, offer her some goods like food and clothes. Another story that struck me was the one told by the secretary of the group whose life was torn by the frequent arguments of her parents, which turned out to be very physical because in the latter, they were already beaten up harshly either by their father or mother. Although this time, she was able to free herself from the agony by leaving their place in Samar, nevertheless, the memories would still haunt her. Her consolation at the moment was her job as a factory worker that helped her make ends meet.
Upon listening to their stories, I thought all the while that the session would end up emotionally draining but I was bit surprised that they haven’t lost their cheerful mood, showing me that optimism that their experiences may be harrowing but it didn’t define their future. They just “charged it to experience”. I was deeply moved when they said that they were fully aware of their situation yet they never lost hope. Probably, this is the reason why they can still manage to smile, proof that we Filipinos value life so much that we find means of maintaining our joy amidst the sorrows. No wonder, we were considered as one of the happiest people on this planet because at times, instead of drowning ourselves with despair and misery, we can only laugh at our problems. I know that this reality has its own negative implications, but placing it in a proper context could teach one how to find meaning in his or her existence. I believe that the lyrics I’ve placed above are very appropriate for what is happening in our society.
Sinisid ko ang dagat, nalibot ko ang mundo
Nasa puso ko pala hinahanap kong pulo
Ilang beses na akong muntikang mamatay
Alam ko ang sikreto kaya’t nandito pa’t buhay
Sabi daw nila may anting-anting ako
Pero ‘di nila alam na ang Diyos ang dahilan ko
It is very striking on my part that profound faith in God has always been the battle cry of those who shared their experiences in the group. It is inspiring to hear testimonies on how their sad plights have encouraged them to establish deep relationship with the Father. They were telling me that somehow, prayer was responsible in preserving their sanities although there were instances that they were on the verge of losing everything. This conviction made me affirm that we Filipinos are indeed very religious people, not for the reason that we are always present in most church liturgies and devotions, but God becomes real as the problems we face each day and we cling to Him in times when we could no longer hold ourselves. We have always believed that God has this magnanimous and abiding force that moves us beyond our physicality and we turn to Him when the going gets rough.
Looking back at my various experiences in the apostolate, I still have a lot of reasons to be thankful for being born in this country imbued with rich cultural and religious heritage. Our history would attest that we have endured so much. The strife still persists. However, at the end of the day, though confronted with so much turmoil in the government and society , aggravated by various reactions of people toward the current status of Philippine economy and politics, I continue to give myself a deep sigh and say; “I’m still proud to be a NOYPI”…
1 An “URNA” is actually an image of Our Lady of Candles encased in a wooden box. This is usually given to the member-baranggays of the parish with the purpose of creating “celdas”. A “celda” should have at least fifteen (15) households wherein the image will be transferred every night and the household who will accommodate the “Urna” of Our Lady should pray the Holy Rosary. Aside from praying the Rosary, the “celda” also schedule a weekly faith sharing at the house of a family where the “urna” is situated. This was again re-introduced for the purpose of establishing Basic Ecclesial Communities.
Radiating the Light of God’s Kindness!
Radiating the Light of God’s Kindness!
by Bp. Gerardo A. Alminaza, D.D.
I attended last January 20-21, 2009 our 74th UST Alumni Priests’ Association Homecoming which we celebrated at the threshold of UST’s 400th year celebration in 2011. This school year is also our Alma Mater’s 80th anniversary as the Interdiocesan Seminary of the Philippines. As one of the two new Thomasian bishops, I presided at the Eucharist on the first day together with ten alumni-bishops including my classmate who is now apostolic nuncio in Haiti and close to 200 alumni-priests and professors including Fr. Gualberto Susaya, one of our silver jubilarians. The mass was in honor of our UST Martyrs and Saints: the Martyrs of Japan (5) and Vietnam (4), and the Martyrs of the 1936 Civil War in Spain (4) plus our saintly Filipino bishops of the Philippine Church – namely: Bishop Alfredo Versoza (ordained priest for the Archdiocese of Vigan and former Archbishop of Lipa) and Bishop Alfredo Ma. Obviar (ordained priest for the Archdiocese of Lipa and former Bishop of Lucena). Indeed we have a rich heritage of saints and great legacy of martyrs!
I preached on our theme, “Thomasian Clergy: Radiating the Light of God’s Kindness.” It is both an affirmation and a challenge; a statement of fact and an invitation to deeper conversion. According to Fr. Enrico Gonzales, OP during his conference with us, kindness is “charity which touches us or charity in action.” A good illustration of what kindness can do and how we can radiate the light of God’s kindness is the classic story of Victor Hugo, Les Miserables.
The lead character, Jean Valjean commits a petty crime of stealing a loaf of bread to feed his sister’s hungry family, and is sent to a harsh prison for 19 years for this crime. When he gets out of prison, he is not prepared to support himself and he commits another crime, against Bishop Digne who offered him hospitality in his convent. Valjean tries to steal from the Bishop, but in return, he is not punished, but given another chance by the compassionate Bishop. The only condition on his second chance is to use it to improve his life. Such kindness of the Bishop creates a profound and lasting transformation in the life of Valjean. He goes to a small town (Montreuil sur Mer), where he uses his new found wealth to help the town by rebuilding its industries providing many jobs for the people. He also saves the daughter of the prostitute, Fantine, taking her into his house as his own daughter. Jean Valjean becomes mayor of the small town and is gracious and generous to all its citizens. He is a much loved mayor, not pretentious, but a humble servant of the people. In all of his actions, he is generous and kind, especially to Cosette, the prostitute’s daughter. Because of the Bishop’s kind action towards him, he in turn radiates the light of God’s kindness to others.
How have we experienced God’s loving kindness in our life? How have these experiences shaped or influenced our being instruments of God’s compassion and kindness to others? Who are God’s instruments in making us feel God’s kindness? There is so much fear of terrorism around the world today. Is this because there is not enough kindness shown around us? Is it because we have not been touched enough so we don’t know how to be kind? No wonder then that our present Holy Father Benedict XVI wrote at the start of his pontificate his first encyclical on Deus caritas est, God is Love! St. Paul in his first letter to the Corinthians describes love right away as being patient and kind. For often in our personal and pastoral experience, “being kind is much more important than being bright,” because sometimes what a person needs is not a brilliant mind that speaks and is able to explain well, but a patient heart that knows how to listen and understand, thus radiating God’s kindness. Anyone being touched by God’s loving kindness cannot but be changed, transformed, converted and become more loving and kind.
Let the words of Mother Teresa of Calcutta inspire us: “Spread love everywhere you go: first of all in your own house. Give love to your children, to your wife or husband, to a next door neighbor. Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression of God's kindness; kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile, kindness in your warm greeting.” Let us radiate to others through our forthcoming Fiesta celebration the light of God’s kindness….
by Bp. Gerardo A. Alminaza, D.D.
I attended last January 20-21, 2009 our 74th UST Alumni Priests’ Association Homecoming which we celebrated at the threshold of UST’s 400th year celebration in 2011. This school year is also our Alma Mater’s 80th anniversary as the Interdiocesan Seminary of the Philippines. As one of the two new Thomasian bishops, I presided at the Eucharist on the first day together with ten alumni-bishops including my classmate who is now apostolic nuncio in Haiti and close to 200 alumni-priests and professors including Fr. Gualberto Susaya, one of our silver jubilarians. The mass was in honor of our UST Martyrs and Saints: the Martyrs of Japan (5) and Vietnam (4), and the Martyrs of the 1936 Civil War in Spain (4) plus our saintly Filipino bishops of the Philippine Church – namely: Bishop Alfredo Versoza (ordained priest for the Archdiocese of Vigan and former Archbishop of Lipa) and Bishop Alfredo Ma. Obviar (ordained priest for the Archdiocese of Lipa and former Bishop of Lucena). Indeed we have a rich heritage of saints and great legacy of martyrs!
I preached on our theme, “Thomasian Clergy: Radiating the Light of God’s Kindness.” It is both an affirmation and a challenge; a statement of fact and an invitation to deeper conversion. According to Fr. Enrico Gonzales, OP during his conference with us, kindness is “charity which touches us or charity in action.” A good illustration of what kindness can do and how we can radiate the light of God’s kindness is the classic story of Victor Hugo, Les Miserables.
The lead character, Jean Valjean commits a petty crime of stealing a loaf of bread to feed his sister’s hungry family, and is sent to a harsh prison for 19 years for this crime. When he gets out of prison, he is not prepared to support himself and he commits another crime, against Bishop Digne who offered him hospitality in his convent. Valjean tries to steal from the Bishop, but in return, he is not punished, but given another chance by the compassionate Bishop. The only condition on his second chance is to use it to improve his life. Such kindness of the Bishop creates a profound and lasting transformation in the life of Valjean. He goes to a small town (Montreuil sur Mer), where he uses his new found wealth to help the town by rebuilding its industries providing many jobs for the people. He also saves the daughter of the prostitute, Fantine, taking her into his house as his own daughter. Jean Valjean becomes mayor of the small town and is gracious and generous to all its citizens. He is a much loved mayor, not pretentious, but a humble servant of the people. In all of his actions, he is generous and kind, especially to Cosette, the prostitute’s daughter. Because of the Bishop’s kind action towards him, he in turn radiates the light of God’s kindness to others.
How have we experienced God’s loving kindness in our life? How have these experiences shaped or influenced our being instruments of God’s compassion and kindness to others? Who are God’s instruments in making us feel God’s kindness? There is so much fear of terrorism around the world today. Is this because there is not enough kindness shown around us? Is it because we have not been touched enough so we don’t know how to be kind? No wonder then that our present Holy Father Benedict XVI wrote at the start of his pontificate his first encyclical on Deus caritas est, God is Love! St. Paul in his first letter to the Corinthians describes love right away as being patient and kind. For often in our personal and pastoral experience, “being kind is much more important than being bright,” because sometimes what a person needs is not a brilliant mind that speaks and is able to explain well, but a patient heart that knows how to listen and understand, thus radiating God’s kindness. Anyone being touched by God’s loving kindness cannot but be changed, transformed, converted and become more loving and kind.
Let the words of Mother Teresa of Calcutta inspire us: “Spread love everywhere you go: first of all in your own house. Give love to your children, to your wife or husband, to a next door neighbor. Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression of God's kindness; kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile, kindness in your warm greeting.” Let us radiate to others through our forthcoming Fiesta celebration the light of God’s kindness….
The Fisherman
The Fisherman
by Jesa Christine Capagal
One day, a fisherman was having a peaceful time while fishing at his pond. In an instant, a three-headed monster came out of nowhere and tossed the boat way up high along with the fisherman that he didn’t had a chance to run away. The three-headed monster ripped the boat apart and opened up his wide mouth ready to eat his man meal.
Then the fisherman cried out, “Oh, God! Please save me from my distress! Please, my Good Lord! Hear me out!” Then the scene suddenly stopped and as the fisherman was suspended into thin air, the sky cleared off and a virtuous voice was heard.
“My dear child, I came to save you and I always will. But from my aching heart, I tell you. Before all these things happened, you didn’t believe in me”.
“Oh, God. Please give me a break! Awhile ago, I didn’t believe in three-headed monsters either” said teh fisherman.
This is all what matters most- to believe in God and submit ourselves in His caring hands. We are all co-creators of God and it is through Him that we can say: “My life isworth living for!”.
by Jesa Christine Capagal
One day, a fisherman was having a peaceful time while fishing at his pond. In an instant, a three-headed monster came out of nowhere and tossed the boat way up high along with the fisherman that he didn’t had a chance to run away. The three-headed monster ripped the boat apart and opened up his wide mouth ready to eat his man meal.
Then the fisherman cried out, “Oh, God! Please save me from my distress! Please, my Good Lord! Hear me out!” Then the scene suddenly stopped and as the fisherman was suspended into thin air, the sky cleared off and a virtuous voice was heard.
“My dear child, I came to save you and I always will. But from my aching heart, I tell you. Before all these things happened, you didn’t believe in me”.
“Oh, God. Please give me a break! Awhile ago, I didn’t believe in three-headed monsters either” said teh fisherman.
This is all what matters most- to believe in God and submit ourselves in His caring hands. We are all co-creators of God and it is through Him that we can say: “My life isworth living for!”.
BAG-O NGA PANUGOD Rehabilitation Update
BAG-O NGA PANUGOD
Rehabilitation Update
Natapos na ang pagpanghatag sang materyales sa onse (11) ka mga barangay sa ciento sinquenta y ciete (157) ka pamilya nga “totally damaged”. Bahin pa ini sang mga panimalay nga nahalitan sang bagyo “Frank”.
Ang Chapel sang Barangay Lourdes isa man sa naguba sang bagyo “Frank”. Ang gastos para sa materyales pagakuhaon sap undo sang Bag-o nga Panugod. Ag mga pumuluyo nagabuligay dagyaw para matukod liwat ang chapel. Ini ginapamunuan sang ila Brgy. Kapitan nga si Jessie Casumpang kag sang iya mga kagawad, upod sa ila mapisan nga barangay coordinator. Kabay mabalay liwat ini nga chapel, agud matipunan sang mga tumuluo sa amo nga barangay bilang isa ka pamilya nga may paghiliusa, pagbinuligay, paghiliugyon kag paghigugma sa isa kag isa.
Ang aton rehabilitation committee nagpaninguha gid para matigayon ini nga mga hilikuton sa pagpamuno sang aton mapisan nga Rehabilitation Coordinator Ms. Emma Victoria kag ang priest in-charge Rev. Fr. Andy Esperancilla.
Liwat nga ginapasalamatan sang Kura Paroko sini nga parokya ang mga may buluwanon sing tagipusuon nga naghatag sang ila bulig kag pagsuporta.
Rehabilitation Update
Natapos na ang pagpanghatag sang materyales sa onse (11) ka mga barangay sa ciento sinquenta y ciete (157) ka pamilya nga “totally damaged”. Bahin pa ini sang mga panimalay nga nahalitan sang bagyo “Frank”.
Ang Chapel sang Barangay Lourdes isa man sa naguba sang bagyo “Frank”. Ang gastos para sa materyales pagakuhaon sap undo sang Bag-o nga Panugod. Ag mga pumuluyo nagabuligay dagyaw para matukod liwat ang chapel. Ini ginapamunuan sang ila Brgy. Kapitan nga si Jessie Casumpang kag sang iya mga kagawad, upod sa ila mapisan nga barangay coordinator. Kabay mabalay liwat ini nga chapel, agud matipunan sang mga tumuluo sa amo nga barangay bilang isa ka pamilya nga may paghiliusa, pagbinuligay, paghiliugyon kag paghigugma sa isa kag isa.
Ang aton rehabilitation committee nagpaninguha gid para matigayon ini nga mga hilikuton sa pagpamuno sang aton mapisan nga Rehabilitation Coordinator Ms. Emma Victoria kag ang priest in-charge Rev. Fr. Andy Esperancilla.
Liwat nga ginapasalamatan sang Kura Paroko sini nga parokya ang mga may buluwanon sing tagipusuon nga naghatag sang ila bulig kag pagsuporta.
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