•A3 Pope to bishops:

Be realistic, not
•B1Stewardship as caring
for one’s vote: A task
•C1 UGNAYAN
The News Supplement
of Couples for Christ
too political of citizenship

Revival of values for children’s Bishop to gov’t: Build

programs needed, says priest decent evacuation
A YOUNG priest from the Archdiocese of
Manila said that more television programs
centers
focusing on values and the rights of children THE government must build decent and
should be produced for broadcast. permanent evacuation centers in areas often
Fr. Jojo Buenafe of the archdiocesan televi- affected by natural calamities to ensure im-
sion station TV Maria lamented the shortage mediate availability of safe havens for disas-
of television programs for children that are ter victims, a Catholic bishop said.
centered on values. With the current situation, Baguio Bishop
“Gone are the days when Sesame Street Carlito Cenzon said he was unsure of the gov-
and Batibot were the ones being watch by ernment’s ability to mitigate catastrophic events
children,” he said. brought by typhoons and other calamities.
Buenafe was one of the 16 Filipino delegates “The government lacks long term plan-
Values / A6
October 26 - November 8, 2009 Vol. 13 No. 22 Php 20.00 Evacuation centers / A6

© CBCP Media

Saints’ holy lives a model

for all, says CBCP head
By Pinky Barrientos, FSP trudge to cemeteries on these days to pray for their dead loved ones.
CBCP president and Jaro Archbishop Angel Lagdameo said Church history is filled with stories of
AS the whole Christendom celebrates the feast of all saints, millions of Fili- people who have lived heroic lives as followers of Christ, men and women who have been proclaimed
pinos, whether here or abroad, troop to cemeteries to light a candle and pray by the Church as saints in heaven.
“Their lives of faithfulness to Christ and of holiness serve as models for the Christian community,”
for their dead. he said.
Catholic tradition celebrates the feast of All Saints on November 1, followed by a day dedicated to But he also said Filipinos now need not only look for models at the saints we know, even among
the poor souls in purgatory on November 2. Individually and as groups, people across the country fellow Filipinos who have lived exemplary lives.
Just like the saints, the heroes of our

Kidnapped Irish priest hailed by Pope

time possess qualities worthy of emula-
tion, Lagdameo said.
They can be models of morality, hon-
esty, uprightness, diligence and trust-
worthiness, the prelate added.
FATHER Michael Sinnott, an elderly Columban mis- to the world and in so doing face hardships and dif- To date, the motive behind the kidnapping is still Among others, he cited the country’s
sionary kidnapped in Southern Philippines, has won ficulties, and even persecution,” said Benedict XVI. unknown and no group has claimed responsibility national hero, Jose Rizal, as someone
praise for his courage from Pope Benedict XVI. “I think of, among others, Fr. Ruggero Ruvoletto, for it. who can stand as a model for everybody
In a tribute on World Mission Day last Oct. 18 in recently killed in Brazil, and Fr. Michael Sinnott, kid- The military authorities in Mindanao admitted in search of change and renewal not only
the Vatican, the pope hailed the frail 79-year old napped a few days ago in the Philippines,” he said. being in a quandary over the exact location of Fr. for oneself but also for the country.
priest’s work even in the face of terrible danger. On that occasion, the pope also assured the friends Sinnott and his abductors. The values that characterize the life of
Addressing a crowd of thousands, he recalled the and family of Fr. Sinnott for his immediate and safe The Pagadian City government has already of- these heroic people can serve as model
work of Catholic missionaries around the world who release. fered a P200,000 reward for information on his for everyone to imitate, the outgoing
serve the weakest people, sometimes at the risk of The frail Irish priest has been kidnapped at gunpoint whereabouts. CBCP president said.
their own lives. at his home in Pagadian City in Zamboanga del Sur
Aside from Sinnott’s case, he also particularly province last Oct. 11. Negotiations for release ongoing Memorial for unnamed saints
reflected on the recent murder of an Italian priest Fr. Sinnott has a heart condition and was not carry- At press time, negotiations for the release of kid- The celebration of All Saints’ Day hon-
killed in Brazil. ing his medication when he was taken. napped Irish missionary is ongoing, according to a ors those who have lived commendable
“I wish to remember the missionaries—priests, The Philippine Catholic hierarchy is hopeful that church official in Pagadian City. Christian life on earth and are now in
religious men and women, and lay volunteers—who the health condition of the priest would convince his “Negotiations are on going, I cannot give further heaven. Since not all the saints are given
have consecrated their existence to bring the gospel abductors to release him. Hailed / A6 Model / A6

RP jails like hell—bishop

FILIPINO prison conditions remain dismal and appears to be a position on justice system and respond to crimes based on church
‘We visit cemeteries to pray
for the dead, not to disturb
growing problem, a Roman Catholic bishop said. teachings.
Overcrowded prison cells, chronic underfunding and dismal
sanitary conditions inside prison are not new, only that the situ-
ation is getting worse, said Palawan Bishop
“We have to rethink our current criminal justice system and think
RP jail / A7 them,’ says Catholic Editor
Pedro Arigo. IN the month of November in which the universal Church
“Looking at our jails, it’s a hell hall,” Arigo tradition¬ally commemorates all of the faithful departed, visits
lamented. to the graves of loved ones has been a popular custom in the
The current situation, he said, is alarming Philippines.
and is wiping out any chance to rehabilitate But what the Catholic Church celebrates as a solemn commemo-
inmates. ration has turned into occasions of rather inappropriate pastimes
“If the situation is like that, it’s hard to expect such as gambling, drunkenness, noise-making, or simply the
that people inside prison be rehabilitated. The pur- senseless crowding of people that has led to road rage and shoot-
pose of correction can never be served,” he said. ing incidents.
According to him, effective measures must be Fr. Gerry S. Patio, editor of Theological Centrum Documentation
taken to ensure prison conditions are consistent Service (TCDS), said there is a need for a greater understanding
with the ideal standards at all stages of detention. of the Christian reverence for the bodies of the dead as well as of
Arigo chairs the prison ministry of the Christian death in general in the light of the promise of a future
Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philip- resurrection.
pines (CBCP). Patio, a Theology graduate of the Pontifical University of the
Holy Cross in Rome and with more than 10 years of pastoral work
Christian response experience behind him, has observed that in the Philippines, people
Aside from the miserable prison condition, are generally and openly pious and the state still respects, in some
© ECPPC-CBCP

the bishop of the Diocese of Puerto Princesa way, the religious heritage of the people.
said the justice system, in the aspect of reha- He said many people still observe commemorations such as
bilitation, is a total failure. All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day as shown in the vast crowds
He called on the government to “rethink” its Not to disturb / A6

Bishop appeals for waste-free ‘Undas’

play a constructive role towards curbing and garbage-free will help in building
crass consumerism that has sullied our citizens’ involvement and solidarity to
beautiful tradition of honoring the dead,” combat climate change. (Roy Lagarde)
Calonzo said.
GREEN Christmas, green Valentine’s, and cemeteries that are supposed to be hal- “Let us remember those who died “Our shared
green fiestas. Now, it’s green “Undas.” lowed grounds. in the storms and vow to honor their efforts to green
Kalookan Bishop Deogracias Iñiguez “The environmental lessons from the memories by preserving and protecting our choices and
said it’s about time to mark the yearly recent storms should not be ignored as our fragile environment to the best of practices—from
All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day free we carry on with our timeless tradition our ability,” said the prelate. sprucing up the
of piles of garbage. of remembering all the saints and our Environment group Ecowaste Coali- tombs to the actual
The celebrations, he said, calls for dear departed ones,” said Iñiguez. tion echoed Iñiguez’s concern, adding visit to the teeming
show of concern among the people for On the contrary, the CBCP official that the public should make the celebra- cemeteries—can
the environment while expressing their said, people should strive to observe tions a simpler one to avoid generating make this year’s
love for their departed ones these holy days with the health, safety unnecessary waste and pollution. Undas kinder to
All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day are and welfare of our people and the en- Manny Calonzo, Ecowaste Coalition the environment,”
special holidays as millions of Filipinos vironment in mind. president, said the bishop’s call for he added.
Illustration by Bladimer Usi

visit the tombs of their departed family “We owe it to all who perished from ecological stewardship was timely at Both the bishop
members and friends, bringing flowers the calamities to reform the way we this “crucial time of relief, remedy and and the environ-
and candles and offering prayers. have been treating Mother Earth, ensur- healing following the harrowing floods ment watchdog
But he said, the celebration is often ing that we hurt her no more with our and landslides.” believe that by
marred by wasteful practices and wasteful habits and harmful practices,” “The widely observed Undas offers keeping the observance
unabashed littering desecrating the he stressed. a concrete opportunity for everyone to of Undas austere, faith-centered,

www.cbcpnews.com/podcast www.youthpinoy.com www.cbcpnews.com

 World News
CBCP Monitor
A2 Vol. 13 No. 22
October 26 - November 8, 2009

‘Race toward WYD 2011 Madrid has

begun,’ declares Cardinal Rouco
MADRID, Spain, Oct. 26, 2009—Cardinal Antonio Maria Rouco Varela of Madrid greeted a large group of young
Catholics gathered at the headquarters of the World Youth Day 2011 organizing committee last Friday.
Cardinal Rouco Varela addressed the youth saying, “Today begins the race towards WYD, an extraor-
dinary event in which we will be able to experience the universality of the Church, in union with the
Pope…with more than a thousand bishops from all over the world, thousands of priests, consecrated men
and women, parents, boys and girls, and especially many young people from all over the world.”
Cardinal Rivera reminded the youth of the two great objectives of WYD:
The first, he explained, is to promote “a great encounter of young people with the Lord, that with their
faith they might make visible the theme of WYD, ‘Rooted and built up in Jesus Christ, firm in the faith’.”
The second objective is “to show the world the testimony of young people in the Church who demonstrate
that they know Christ and that following Him is the best path to give life meaning and to be truly happy.”
Cardinal Rouco encouraged those present, including leaders of the organizing committee, their
collaborators and many volunteers, to carry out their tasks with the dedication of St. Paul and to bear
difficulties and crosses with joy in order to achieve the goal.
This is “a grace as well as a great challenge for Madrid, which we take up with enthusiasm and a
spirit of service and humility,” the cardinal said. (CNA)

Church of England
bishop says ‘Anglican

© www.bluepanjeet.net
experiment is over’
LONDON, England, Oct. 26, 2009—Members of the traditionalist Speaking to the press during the event, the Right Reverend John response to the pleas of Anglicans who despair at the disintegra-
Anglican group Forward in Faith recently concluded their annual Hind, Anglican Bishop of Chichester, announced he is considering tion of their Church. “Anglicanism has become a joke because it
gathering, which was dedicated to discussing Pope Benedict's over- becoming a Roman Catholic. has singularly failed to deal with any of its contentious issues,”
ture to Anglicans. The general impression left by the conference was Hind, the most senior traditionalist in the Church of England, told said the bishop.
the “Anglican experiment is over,” a mood that was reinforced by “The Telegraph” that he is willing to sacrifice his salary and palace “There is widespread dissent across the [Anglican] Communion.
Bishop John Hind officially residence to join the Catholic Church. We are divided in major ways on major issues and the Communion
announcing he is ready to “This is a remarkable new step from the Vatican,” he said. “At long has unraveled. I believed in the Church I joined, but it has been re-
become Catholic. last there are some choices for Catholics in the Church of England. vealed to have no doctrine of its own. I personally think it has gone
The 2009 National Assem- I'd be happy to be re-ordained into the Catholic Church.” past the point of no return. The Anglican experiment is over.”
bly of Forward in Faith was The bishop said that he expects his previous ministry will be rec- In an emotional closing speech on Saturday, Bishop Broadhurst
held in the Emmanuel Cen- ognized in the Catholic Church, but stressed that the divisions in the used the metaphor of the frog and the boiling pot to describe the
tre, Westminster, London, Anglican Communion could make it impossible to stay. “How can the current Anglican status.
October 23-24. The Assembly Church exist if bishops are not in full communion with each other?” "The temperature at the pot has become intolerable, but the pro-
© www.diochi.org.uk

was originally scheduled be- he asked. cess of boiling started before the ordination of women… The truth
fore the Vatican announced During the conference, the Right Reverend John Broadhurst, who is, the tragedy for us is the Church of England has presumed. It's
its unprecedented move, but is the Anglican Bishop of Fulham and the Primate of Forward in presumed to know better than the tradition on many matters and
the issue dominated most of Faith, affirmed that “the Anglican experiment is over.” it's presumed to know better than Jesus Christ about some matters,”
the discussion. Bishop Broadhurst said that Pope Benedict has made his offer in he explained. (CNA)

Vatican begins dialogue with Society Taize leader notes good

relations with Russian orthodox
of St. Pius X
VATICAN CITY, Oct. 26, 2009—A meeting today
Thanks Pope for commitment to unity
MUNICH, Germany, Oct. 26, 2009—The leader of the ecumenical
between representatives of the Society of St. Pius X Taizé community has expressed his gratitude to Benedict XVI for
(SSPX) and officials from the Vatican identified the the Pope’s efforts and courage in promoting Christian unity.
doctrinal differences that still separate the Society Brother Alois Loser particularly noted the Holy Father’s
from the Roman Catholic Church. The gathering also work to bring unity with the traditionalist Society of St. Pius
served to identify the manner and structure of future X. He made this observation as he received the 2009 prize for
discussions between the two groups. ecumenism in the Catholic Academy of Bavaria.
Though Pope Benedict lifted the excommunica- He told ZENIT that the Pontiff’s efforts to reconcile with the so-
tion of four Lefebvrist bishops earlier this year, he ciety founded by Marcel Lefebvre is “an important initiative.”
also told the bishops of the world that “until the Brother Alois also expressed satisfaction with advances in
doctrinal questions are clarified, the Society has no Catholic-Orthodox dialogue. In that vein, he noted the relation-
canonical status in the Church, and its ministers— ship between the Taizé community and the past and present
even though they have been freed of the ecclesi- leaders of the Russian
astical penalty—do not legitimately exercise any Orthodox Church.
© www.sspx.org

ministry in the Church.” “We have good re-

Today the representatives of the SSPX and the Vati- lations,” he said. “Pa-
can agreed that they would focus their dialogue on triarch Kirill has been
the concepts of Tradition, the Paul VI missal, religious with us twice.”
© www.unitychurchofaustin.org

freedom, the relationship between Christian and non-Christian reli- in continuity with Catholic doctrine.
gions, Catholic principles of ecumenism, themes regarding the unity Losing energy
The themes will be examined over the next few months, probably
of the Church, and the interpretation of the documents of Vatican II As the Taizé leader
in bi-monthly discussions. (CNA)
accepted the prize, he
lamented the persis-

‘The 13th Day’ tells story of Fatima tent division among

Christians.
“What unites us is
SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 27, 2009─A new film on tius Press, said that "special viewings of the film much more important than what divides us,” he said. “Christians
Mary’s apparitions in Fatima is being offered are particularly impactful for catechesis and faith should not continue to lose energies in small wars, which at times
with an advance screening program for groups formation, as well as for basic, family-friendly occur even within the Churches themselves.”
before the DVD is available to the public in North entertainment." “While Christians live divided, the message of the Gospel
America. Organizations that participate in the advance cannot be understood,” he warned, adding that reconciliation
"The 13th Day" tells the true story of the May screening program purchase a one-year license, is “the heart of the Gospel.”
13-Oct. 17, 1917, apparitions to Lucia Santos and allowing them to show "The 13th Day" as often Brother Alois called for regular inter-confessional nights of
© www.aquinasandmore.com

her cousins, Francisco and Jacinta Marto. The as they want over a year. prayer for young people, “in important places,” such as borders,
film is based on the memoirs of Lucia after she Promotional materials such as posters, event prisons, and urban areas in crisis.
became a nun. planning guides, customizable postcard invita- The prize is a 10,000 euro ($16,328) award. The previous winner
Ignatius Press, the North American distribu- tions, Our Lady of Fatima prayer cards and T- was Cardinal Walter Kasper, president of the Pontifical Council
tor of the film, is offering dioceses, parishes, shirts are included. for Promoting Christian Unity.
schools and other organizations an opportunity Special features on the DVD include optional Brother Alois said the prize money will help fund a Taizé
to show "The 13th Day" before it is available to Spanish subtitles, a 24-page companion Col- project to print one million Bibles and distribute them in the
the public. lector's Booklet, as well as interviews with key People’s Republic of China. (Zenit)
Anthony Ryan, director of marketing for Igna- Fatima experts. (Zenit)

Condoms promote promiscuity and lead to

Asian bishops meeting takes place in Vietnam for the first time more HIV infections, says African bishop
HO CHI MINH CITY, Oct. 26, 2009—For nila in 1970 in the presence of Pope Paul VI, Xavier Osamu Mizobe, SDB, while the aux-
the first time ever a meeting of the Fed- despite active involvements of Vietnamese iliary bishop of Saigon gave a homily on the VATICAN CITY, Oct. 15, 2009—During his remarks at the Synod
eration of Catholic Bishops Conferences bishops in its activities, FABC has never been mission of Catholic evangelization. Of par- of Bishops for Africa taking place at the Vatican, Bishop Joseph
of Asia (FABC) has been held in Vietnam. able to hold any meetings in Vietnam. ticular significance in the course of the work, Shpandeni Shikongo of Capra, Namibia said condoms spread
The government allowed a seminar to take The meeting was opened with a Mass the intervention of Cardinal Jean Baptiste a “secular and relativistic vision of sexuality” and “encourage
place in Ho Chi Minh City October 22 to celebrated by Japanese Archbishop Francis Pham Minh Man of the host diocese, who promiscuity,” thus increasing the spread of AIDS.
26 attended by 40 cardinals and explained "The education for Chris- Speaking about the public health situation in Namibia, the
bishops from Bangladesh, India, tians to live the mystery of the Holy bishop explained that while the Church in that country does
Japan, Laos, Macau, Malaysia, Eucharist in the socio-economic everything possible to promote abstinence in the fight against
Philippines, South Korea, Sri context of Vietnam today”. this disease, she cannot compete with the government, “which
Lanka, Taiwan and Thailand , The objective of the seminar was is much better financed, has international advisors and access to
and Vietnam. the sharing of information, ideas, the national media: television, radio and newspapers. So it has
The authority’s gesture of open- innovations and technology tools in a greater influence than we do.”
ness however, rendered more stark the administration, education strat- Thus, the bishop continued, “a secular and relativistic vision
the contradiction with the theme of egies and social activities of Catho- of sexuality is spread. For the government, the primary concern
the seminar, which was "Catholic lic schools. The Vietnamese partici- is the prevention of infection and the main practical means of
Schools and Catechetical Centres as pants did their best to contribute to avoiding it is the condom: thus an unrealistic trust in its efficacy
venues of Eucharistic Faith Forma- the work, but their interventions is being promoted.”
tion in Asia" since the Vietnamese could not be in line with those of “The inefficacy of this means,” he explained, “is deliber-
Church is prohibited from taking others, since for decades Catholics ately ignored and explained in a vague manner. Thus pro-
part in the field of education. have been barred from the field of miscuity is encouraged, which leads to a greater number of
It should, however, be noted that education, which is monopolized infections.” (CNA)
since its first meeting held in Ma- by the state. (AsiaNews)
 News Features
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 13 No. 22
October 26 - November 8, 2009
A3

Pope to bishops: Be realistic,

not too political
VATICAN CITY, Oct. 25, 2009─There is a double danger
Says African Synod successfully
struck a balance
unrealistic world."
when speaking of social issues, says Benedict XVI. The "The discourse of a pastor must be realistic," the Pontiff affirmed.
first is to focus too much on politics; the second is to be "It must deal with reality, but from the perspective of God and his
unrealistic. Word."
The Pope said this Saturday at a luncheon held in the
atrium of the Paul VI Hall with those who participated In the middle
in the Second Special Assembly for Africa of the Synod "So this mediation involves, on one hand, being truly connected
of Bishops. with reality, attentive to speak of what is, and, on the other hand,
The three-week assembly, which gathered 33 cardi- to not fall into technically political solutions; that means indicating
nals, 79 archbishops and 156 bishops, considered the a concrete but spiritual word," he continued. "This was the great
theme "The Church in Africa at the Service of Reconcili- issue of the synod and I think, thanks be to God, we successfully
ation, Justice and Peace." resolved it."

© glanyrafoninn.files.wordpress.com
In addressing the synod participants, the Holy Benedict XVI noted in his address the nomination of Cardinal
Father noted the two-fold danger of choosing the Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson, the archbishop of Ghana and relator-
synodal theme, which "implies a strong political general of the synod, as the new president of the Pontifical Council
dimension." of Justice and Peace.
The Pontiff noted "that reconciliation, justice and peace "Thank you, your eminence, for accepting," the Pope said. "We
are not possible without a profound purification of the are glad that you will be with us soon."
heart, without a renewal of thought, a 'metanoia' (con- "The synod ends and does not end, not only because the work
version), without a newness that must come precisely goes forward with post-synodal exhortation," the Pontiff added.
from the encounter with God." "'Synodus' means common journey.
"But even if this spiritual dimension is profound and fundamental, the theme, to speak less of pastoral work and more about politics, “We continue on the same journey with the Lord, we go for-
the political dimension is also very real, because without political re- with a competence that is not ours." ward with the Lord to prepare the way for him, to help him,
alizations, these new things of the Spirit are not commonly realized," Benedict XVI pointed out the second danger: "that of retreating open the gates of the world so that he might create his kingdom
he continued. "Thus, the temptation could have been to politicize into a purely spiritual world, into an abstract and beautiful but among us." (Zenit)

‘Rise up!’ Pope Benedict tells Bishops seek

dialogue with Arroyo
Africa at close of Synod over aerial spray
MANILA, Oct. 23, 2009—Catholic bishops said
they will seek a dialogue with President Arroyo
VATICAN CITY, Oct. 25, 2009─ Pope Benedict nations… Moving testimony has demonstrated to Benedict XVI said he shared the joys of the
XVI’s homily for the close of the Synod of Bishops us that even in these most dark moments of human Christian communities, “which continue to grow to express their concerns to aerial spraying of
for Africa concluded the Lord of history does not history, the Holy Spirit is at work transforming in quantity and quality.” He added, “Naturally, pesticides in banana plantations.
tire of renewing oppressed humanity since the the hearts of victims and persecutors so that they the actual problems of Africa and the great need Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pabillo said
time of Moses. “Rise up, African continent, the recognize brothers.” of reconciliation, justice and peace were immersed all they want is to bring to Arroyo’s attention
land which received the Savior when as a child he The Pontiff directed the synod fathers to the in the Assembly.” concrete cases related to aerial dust cropping.
had to flee with Joseph and Mary to Egypt so as to example of the encyclical “Populorum progres- “Today I desire to address all the African popu- “We are hoping that the President will side our
save his life from the persecution of King Herod,” sio,” elaborated by the Servant of God Paul VI and lations, especially those that share the Christian concern, especially the demand of the affected
Pope Benedict proclaimed. which missionaries have realized and continue faith, so as to ideally entrust to them the ‘Final residents from Davao, to stop aerial spraying,”
Benedict XVI’s homily turned to Sunday’s first to realize promoting a respectful development of Message’ of the Synodal Assembly,” the Holy he said.
reading from Jeremiah. In the Book of Lamentations, Father continued. “Dear brothers and sisters who Along with them in seeking a dialogue with
there is an announcement of hope for the people hear me in Africa, I entrust in a special way to your Arroyo, said Pabillo, is a group of farmers and
of Israel, laid low by the invasion of the army of prayers the fruit of this work of the Synod Fathers indigenous peoples composing the environ-
Nebuchadnezzar, the devastation of Jerusalem and and I encourage you with the words of the Lord ment group Mamayang Ayaw sa Aerial Spray
the Temple and the deportation to Babylon. Jesus: You are the salt and light of the beloved (Maas).
In the Gospel, Jesus encounters along the road to African land!” The group came from Davao to Manila recently
Jerusalem Bartimaeus, who has lost his sight. “God The Holy Father concluded by recalling next to air their grievances against aerial spraying and
is light and creator of light,” the Pope explained. year’s Synod of Bishops for the Middle East, for to press for a ban on the practice, citing threats
“Man is the son of light, made to see light, but has which the “instrumentum laboris” will be pre- to communities around banana plantations in
lost his sight and wanders.” sented during his visit to Cyprus. Davao.
“Brothers, we give thanks because this ‘mysteri- After the Angelus prayer, the Pontiff extended Maas is primarily made up of residents around
ous meeting of our poverty and the greatness’ of his greeting to thousands of faithful gathered out- agricultural plantations who are protesting the
God is realized also in the Synodal Assembly for side of Milan, Italy’s cathedral for the beatification chemical drifts in their environment.
Africa, which today concludes,” he added. “God of Father Carlo Gnocchi: The protesters are currently taking refuge
has renewed his call: ‘Courage! Rise up…” “Father Gnocchi worked ‘to restore the hu- inside Caritas Manila compound in Pandacan
“And also the Church in Africa, through the local culture and locale. The Pope added, “After man person,’ gathering children orphaned and district, Manila.
bishops, come from all the Countries of the Con- more than forty years, this appears to be the only mutilated by the Second World War and offering Bananas are the second most abundant ex-
tinent, from Madagascar and the other islands, has logic capable of freeing the African people from them help and education. He gave his all until the ported crop in the Philippines. Mindanao region
received the message of hope and light to walk the the slavery of hunger and sickness.” very end and dying, donated his corneas to two produces 75 percent of the country’s yield.
way leading to the Kingdom of God,” the Holy Before the Angelus prayer, Pope Benedict spoke blind children. His work has continued to develop Philippine Banana Growers and Exporters As-
Father continued. “Bartimaeus becomes a witness of the rich reality of the local Churches presented and today the Father Gnocchi Foundation offers sociation (PGBEA) claims that the aerial spraying
to the light, giving a firsthand account of healing, by the Synod Fathers. Animated by the Word of rehabilitation therapy to needy people of all ages. ban will cause substantial economic damage to
renewal, regeneration.” God and the Eucharist, he explained, the Church While I greet Cardinal Tettamanzi, Archbishop the region.
“This is the Church in the world, a commu- works so that “no one is without the necessities to of Milan, and rejoice with the entire Ambrosian But Pabillo contend the health and welfare of
nity of persons reconciled, workers of justice and live and so that all can have an existence worthy Church, I make my own the theme of this beatifica- farmers and residents around the banana planta-
peace, ‘salt and light’ amid a society of men and of a human being.” tion: ‘Alongside life, forever.’” (CNA) tion should be given supremacy over business
interests.

Holy See decries increasing poverty

The Catholic hierarchy’s influence has been
instrumental for the successful campaign of
Sumilao farmers in 2008 to reclaim a vast agricul-
tural land in Bukidnon province that they insist
Calls for empowerment of the poor is rightfully theirs.
Same influence of the church also led to the ex-
tension of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform
NEW YORK, Oct. 23, 2009—The Holy The archbishop noted, "Between the Not over ing "some new rules and
Program (CARP) last August. (Roy Lagarde)
See is calling for the eradication of potential for recovery and continued He reported that malnutrition rates controls to ensure a less
poverty, pointing out that even after setbacks lie some discouraging statistics have increased by 11% over the past uncertain and traumatic
the global economy recovers, for many on the deterioration of public health, year, "primarily in developing coun- financial sector." law at the national and international
tries." The archbishop stated that his delega- levels.
"Even if an economic recovery is im- tion "looks with attention and interest "But this is not enough; we must
minent," the prelate stated, "for those at the proposed topic 'Legal Empower- promote a true human empowerment
who remain jobless the crisis is not ment of the Poor.'" of the poor and provide, even in condi-
over and its social and human costs He continued: "In fact, the implemen- tions of economic crisis, greater access
persist." tation of a national and international to education. This needs to go beyond
Thus he underlined the necessity of economic system that actually serves basic education or professional training,
working toward "a qualitative change the interests of the poor requires that both important causes of development,
in the management of international they be able to defend and promote their and concern the total formation of the
affairs" rather than simply establish- own rights in the context of the rule of person." (Zenit)

NGO: Mindanao tri-people live along well with

each other
© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media

dren’s rights, in one of the workshops held ation of women displaced by war and
Oct. 20 during the Signis World Congress also the protection issues that have to be
in Chiang Mai, Thailand. responded both by the government and
CHIANG MAI, Thailand, Oct. 21, She said the tri-people have their own MILF. It actually calls for both panels to
2009—Contrary to usual perceptions systems to address conflict, adding that heed the responsibility to really protect
that conflict in Mindanao is fueled by problems only arise when outsiders with the civilians,” she said.
religious conflict, Christians, Muslims vested interests come in and use the There are currently 700,000 internally-
and Lumads in reality live well with one resources of local people for their own displaced people in Southern Mindanao,
people the crisis will not be over. social welfare systems and education another, according to a non-government benefit. according to Oledan.
Archbishop Celestino Migliore, per- as well as a widespread sense of social organization. “Sometimes these elite would use the She said they are tapping the indig-
manent observer of the Holy See at the disintegration." The issue of religious discord to justify religious dimension to somehow justify enous people, women, children and
United Nations, stated this Thursday in Thus he pointed out that "the real the war in Mindanao is only created by the conflict in Mindanao but what we are youth in their peace-building efforts,
an address before the 64th session of the crisis" is "not the disruption of the in- some sectors to push their own agenda, doing as a civil society group is to really making sure that their voices are heard
U.N. General Assembly. ternational economic structures based said Radzini Oledan, an officer of the sit down, make spaces available for each in the peace process.
He underlined the renewed commit- largely on weak or even fictitious bases, Initiatives for International Dialogue, one to really dialogue with one another,” “There’s [a] need for the civilian popu-
ment to "eradicating the main structural but the sharp worsening of poverty in a Regional Initiator of the Global Part- said Oledan. lation to really assert their right to live
causes of poverty." a world already haunted by intolerable nership for the Prevention of Armed Oledan’s group links with the Church humanely considering that the war has
"Even the most optimistic outlook misery." Conflict (GPPAC). and other civil society groups in pushing taken the toll on human dignity and their
admits that recovery" from last year's "In addition," Archbishop Migliore GPPAC is a global civil society-led for the protection of women and children right to live with dignity,” said Oledan.
financial crisis "will be very slow," the noted, "those who bear the brunt of the network which seeks to build an interna- in Mindanao. The civil society groups Aside from linking with civil society
prelate acknowledged. crisis are only marginally mentioned tional consensus on peace-building and have drafted along with the Mindanao groups to advance their peace advocacy,
He added that "there is no guarantee in public discourse despite the fact that the prevention of armed conflict. Peoples’ caucus the women and civilian the NGO also takes the initiative to go
that there will not be any further shocks their numbers have skyrocketed and op- Oledan was one of the GPPAC pre- protection. down and partner with organizations
and setbacks, including those triggered portunities to reintegrate in the eventual senters on the issue of media’s role in “I think it is a significant contribution and communities to further their agenda.
by inappropriate use of measures ad- economic growth are rather scarce or peace-building and promotion of chil- to the peace process. It outlines the situ- (Pinky Barrientos, FSP)
opted to curb the effects of the crisis." even non-existent."
A4 Opinion CBCP Monitor
Vol. 13 No. 22
October 26 - November 8, 2009

EDITORIAL

Ending the Anglican ‘experiment’

AT first blush it may look like it was Pope Benedict XVI who
hammered the last nail to the Anglican crisis by issuing an Apostolic
Constitution that will allow former Anglicans to enter full visible
communion with the Roman Catholic Church while preserving
elements of distinctive Anglican spiritual patrimony.
On closer look, it was actually an opportune response of the Holy
See to mounting requests of the groups of Anglicans who wished
to enter communion with the Church. Or, better, it was a happy
consequence of a lengthy forty years or so of dialogue between
the Catholics and the Anglican Communion. The Anglican Roman
Catholic International Commission (ARCIC) and the International
Anglican Roman Catholic Commission for Unity and Mission
(IARCCUM) were at the forefront to make the ecumenical
dialogue to fruition.
The issue of reunification of Anglicans and Catholic is, of course,
nothing new ever since 450 years ago or shortly after King Henry
VIII bolted out of the Church and declared the Church in England
independent of Papal Authority. That has always been in the offing.

Illustration by Bladimer Usi

But in recent history it became more viable, or so it seemed, after
Vatican II with the Decree on Ecumenism (Unitatis Redintegratio,
n. 13) that sent comfortable signals: “Among those in which
Catholic traditions and institutions in part continue to exist, the
Anglican Communion occupies a special place.”
Coming home to the Catholic Church had been common to many
individuals and groups of Anglicans through the years. The
Anglican diocese of Amritsar in India, for instance, and some
individual parishes in the United States have come to terms with
Catholicism some decades ago—although maintaining yet an
Anglican identity under a “pastoral provision” adopted by the
Vatican’s Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith.
But for the traditionalist Anglican group called Forward in Faith,
this homecoming marks an end to “Anglican experiment”. And
this is largely due to the failure of Anglicanism to deal with any
contentious issues, according to Right Rev. John Broadhurst, the
Anglican Bishop of Fulham and the Primate of Forward in Faith. Abp. Angel N. Lagdameo, DD
“There is widespread dissent across the [Anglican] Communion.
We are divided in major ways on major issues and the Communion
All Saints’ and All
has unraveled. I believed in the Church I joined, but it has been
revealed to have no doctrine of its own. I personally think it has In and Out of Season Souls’ Days
gone past the point of no return. The Anglican experiment is over,”
confessed Broadhurst.
OCCURRING within the semestral break and recognized as holy unnamed, unknown or unrecognized saints, inhabitants of heaven.
Indeed, the “experimentation” made a turn for the worse when days are the Feast of All Saints (Nov. 1) and the Feast of All Souls The Feast of All Saints in November 1 compensates for the deficiency
some Anglicans have abandoned the tradition of conferring Holy (Nov. 2). The former are the men and women proclaimed by the in our celebration of the saints’ feast during the year.
Orders only on men by calling women to the priesthood and the Church as saints in heaven, the latter are those who are undergoing On November 2, we celebrate the souls of all our beloved dead,
episcopacy. Recently, some segments of the Anglican Communion purification in purgatory. friends and loved ones and also the forgotten ones. The catacombs
have departed from the common biblical teaching on human All Saints’ Day used to be known as Feast of All Martyrs, in in Rome attest to the early practice of praying for the dead; the per-
sexuality by the ordination of the openly homosexual clergy and particular the nameless martyrs of the first three centuries during secuted Christians would gather in the catacombs to pray for their
the blessing of homosexual partnerships. the persecution of the Church by the pagan emperors. This was dead with the belief that their prayers could somehow help the soul
Perhaps the real issue may even be deeper than the peripheral celebrated at first on the first Sunday after Pentecost, sometime in of their departed and thus deliver them from the state of purgatory.
challenges. Broadhurst explains: “The temperature at the pot the month of May. Pope St. Boniface IV in the 7th century rebuilt St. Paul prayed for the deliverance of his friend Onesiphorus (cf. 1
has become intolerable, but the process of boiling started before the Pantheon which used to be dedicated to “all pagan gods,” and Tim. 1/18).
the ordination of women… The truth is, the tragedy for us is the buried there instead the bones of many martyrs. The Fathers of the Church developed the concept of “purga-
Church of England has presumed. It’s presumed to know better The Pantheon was a gift to the Church from Emperor Phocas. tion of sin through fire after death.” The purification of the elect is
than the tradition on many matters and it’s presumed to know The feast of all the martyrs of the faith, all proclaimed as saints, was called “purgatory.” The Church believes that there is purification
better than Jesus Christ about some matters.” transferred to November 1, when Pope Gregory III in the 8th century of believers prior to entering heaven and that, prayers and Masses
dedicated a new chapel in St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. This time it of the faithful benefit those in the state of purgation. The Church
Without a doubt, this is a happy development. But his may even celebrated not only the martyrs but all saints. The celebration of All has no official teaching as to the place and duration and nature of
just be the tip of the iceberg of upcoming “adjustments” even Saints in November 1 was extended to the Universal Church in the this purification.
with the Catholic Church that instituted a “canonical structure” 9th century by Pope Gregory IV. All Souls Day is an opportunity to remember, to pray for and offer
to loosen up and accept the distinctive “Anglican spiritual and Not all of the saints are given a day each in the year to celebrate masses for our departed in the state of purification. In the Philippines
liturgical patrimony” which includes serious issues such as his/her feast. And so the designation of one day for all of them was it is an occasion to visit the cemeteries where our dead are “resting”
priestly celibacy. a practical and pastoral disposition. Our Church history is filled until the final call. The bringing of food for the dead is of pagan ori-
with stories of heroic faith of the disciples of Christ. Their lives of gin. In the Philippines, the custom includes the putting of lights and
faithfulness to Christ and holiness serve as models for the Christian ornamentals to decorate the graves of relatives. More important, of
Renewal of Faith-Communities, community. November 1 is a memorial day especially for the many course, are the prayers and Masses offered for the deceased.

Civil Society, Political Leaders Fr. Roy Cimagala

WE have to come together then as communities of faith, as we your
Bishops said back in 1986 after the Snap Elections of that year, to Novena for the dead
“pray together, reason together, decide together, act together,” form
groups of thinking and praying people—in our schools, seminaries,
Candidly Speaking
parishes, mandated organizations, lay movements, social action
groups, most especially in basic ecclesial communities which the TAKE it from us, Filipinos. When it comes family and ultimately the people of God, describe our life as a mathematical equation,
Rural Congress we will be holding this year looks to as a crucial to remembering and honoring the dead, we despite our differences and mistakes. we see death as the equals sign that connects
instrument in the forbidding task of rural development. do it in full force, even with great hoopla, We believe in the spiritual character of our and relates the left side, our life here, with
We zero in on what we say is the basic fault in our communities’ especially come November when a day, life that underlies our earthly existence. It’s the right side, our life hereafter. It summa-
political and social life: the subordinating of the common good extended into days, is dedicated for those this aspect of our life that enables us to be rizes our life here and determines the state
to private good. We see how this flaw in our national character who went ahead of us. above our earthly life’s wear and tear, and of our afterlife.
evinces itself in our community life. We need to seek ways and This, to me, is a great blessing, a strong in- to transcend time itself. We never lose this We have to keep nourishing our heart in
mean of correcting it in whatever way we can—but always dicator that in spite of our flaws and cracks in seed of our immortality despite our physi- this faith, especially now when the world is
according to the principles of active-non violence—together, character and culture, we have a vivid sense cal decay. bombarded with a dominantly materialistic
creatively and imaginatively, as we bishops exhorted in 1986. We of unity and family, theologically described Besides, if we go by the full extent of our and temporal outlook that holds death as a
have to form ourselves into real communities of faith-discernment as communion, among ourselves, both liv- Christian faith, we know that our life is al- period, the end of the book of life.
and -action. ing and dead. ways taken up by God himself, who wants My opinion though is that underneath an
Distance and transitions from here to the us to participate in his very own life. Our attention-grabbing layer of a Godless view
We ask this of explicitly Church groups. But we will ask it too of hereafter are no hindrance to us. In our heart life is never just our own. It’s always his of life held by a noisy group of unbelievers
all citizens who have a concern for the nation’s good, especially will always burn the belief that physical and ours. is a great mass of silent simple people, who
those who hold the reins of power, from Malacañang on to separation is no obstacle to our togetherness. Thus, death is not an end. It’s simply a still believe in our Christian faith. Sinners
Congress, provincial and municipal governments, all the way
We regard the whole of humanity as one big kind of change of residence. If we are to Candidly / A7
down to barangay councils. People in government—and as well
as all other civic and business groupings—can they too reflect
together in all manner of associations and look into themselves Sr. Mary Pilar Verzosa, RGS
Pondo ng Pinoy
to see if, in all their actuations, the demands of the common good
are in fact captive to merely personal and selfish interests? And if
they are, can they rise up to the challenge and decide themselves
to contribute to the general effort?
CBCP Statement: “Reform Yourselves and Believe in the
Love Life collections down
Gospel!”, 2008
IT was sad news that I received from the staff of Pondo ng Pinoy the children, to watch the coins in their container increase, knowing
when I visited the office at Pius Center, UN Ave last week. I was told that they have also developed their spiritual life in their offering, for
that collections for the Pondo ng Pinoy is much lower this 2009, com- the sake of Jesus and the poor.
www.cbcpmonitor.com pared with the previous years. That means, we have less allocations As the head of the Project Proposals Screening Committee, it has
[email protected] to give to the dioceses for the projects for the poor in their areas. given me much consolation to see that more and more parishes are
It is five years now since Cardinal Rosales with several Bishops giving attention to the poor in their area. Some of them have been
launched Pondo ng Pinoy at Folk Arts Center. There was a lot of very creative in organizing micro-financing (small loans for vendors,
enthusiasm then, and although the policies and programs were not fisherfolk, farmers, factory workers, etc.) vocational education for
yet very clear to us in the Board of Trustees, we have faithfully sat young men and women so that they could assist more effectively
and planned and promoted its Vision, Mission, Goals and Programs in the family income, community health programs, and housing.
so that from ten Dioceses, nine more have joined. More than P100 million have been released to these projects since
Pedro C. Quitorio Each member diocese has launched the program with the parish we started in 2004.
Editor-in-Chief priests, catechists, parish pastoral leaders, school heads and lay Our flag ship project, the Hapag-Asa, spearheaded by Ambas-
organization members attending. sador Howard Dee of Assissi Foundation, who is also a member of
Pinky Barrientos, FSP Kris P. Bayos Diocesan Pondo ng Pinoy Desk Coordinators have been commu- the Pondo Board of Trustees), reports that we have fed over 500,000
Associate Editor Feature Editor nicating with our office secretariat, getting the needed education severely malnourished children and the program is continuing in
materials and learning how to deposit the collections in the differ- more dioceses all over the Philippines, even if they are not members
Melo M. Acuña Laarni Bergado ent banks that have signed contracts with us. So that month after of the Pondo ng Pinoy.
Managing Editor Marketing Supervisor month, the collection was actually growing, giving us much joy that It has to be made clear to our people that Pondo ng Pinoy is not
we could also allocate more funds for projects. a calamity fund. (That is the mission of Caritas.) I have been asked
Roy Q. Lagarde Ernani M. Ramos
News Editor Circulation Manager Catechists, school teachers and parishioners were repeatedly lately what we are doing to address the devastating effects of Ondoy
reminded about the spirit of the Pondo ng Pinoy—that the act of and Pepeng. We put emphasis on development projects, therefore, it
Laurence John R. Morales Marcelita Dominguez dropping the twenty-five centavo coin is simply the concrete symbol is a challenge to our church leaders to plan projects with long term
Layout Artist and Online Editor Comptroller of the small good deed that one had done for the day. As Cardinal assistance to our poor and not only for the duration of the calamity.
Rosales passionately explains—no one is so poor that he/she cannot Guidelines for submitting Project Proposal can be obtained form our
The CBCP Monitor is published fortnightly by the CBCP Com- do that small good deed and drop a small coin, and the rich should secretariat at Pius Center, UN Ave, Manila tel 527- 8113.
munications Development Foundation, Inc., with editorial and not drop large amounts if they have not done a small good deed for This is a call to all our readers—please be faithful in dropping
business offices at 470 Gen. Luna St., Intramuros, Manila.
P.O. Box 3601, 1076 MCPO. the day. Big donors of course could donate to other foundations, but your “crumbs” , the 25 centavo coin, and submit to your parish
Editorial: (063) 404-2182. Business: (063)404-1612. not into the Pondo ng Pinoy fund. Regularity and intentionality that church every Pondo ng Pinoy Sunday (last Sunday of the Month).
ISSN 1908-2940 develops into good habits, then into good character is a basic concept Remember, .25 a day will only amount to P7 a month. Is that too
of Pondo ng Pinoy. And how wonderful for the people, especially much to ask for the good of our needy brothers and sisters?
 CBCP Monitor
Vol. 13 No. 22
October 26 - November 8, 2009
Opinion A5
Fr. Rolando V. de la Rosa, OP
Bp. Guillermo V. Afable, DD
Eros
Posthaste DADITAMA
YOU might be surprised to know that Pope Benedict XVI mentions means a powerful urge or drive; it also means suffering.
the word eros more frequently in his first encyclical letter Deus This classical understanding of Eros as inseparable from passion
Caritas Est than Sigmund Freud did in all his works before 1920.
It is unfortunate that today Eros has been unmercifully equated
teaches us a deep insight about love—the creative force of love can
only be sustained by passion. I am reminded of Mel Gibson’s movie:
Laiko: apostol ng
with eroticism and sexual perversions, thanks to Alfred Kinsey and
self-styled sex gurus who came after him. The Kinsey Report docu-
mented many forms of erotic activities and lumped these together
“The Passion”, a most literal depiction of the passionate love of an
“erotic God” who willingly endures unspeakable suffering—for us,
his beloved.
bagong milenyo
as sex, minus the meaning and mystery inherent in the sexual act. Eros deteriorates into a whimsical, childish Cupid in the absence of I HAD the privilege of taking part in the Sangguniang Laiko’s 16th
Kinsey was a zoologist. He viewed the sexual act just like any his brother, Anteros. Without the willingness to sacrifice and to suffer National Biennial convention and the Laiko Regional gathering
other activity in the animal kingdom. Eros was thus equated with for the sake of the beloved, love becomes an effete feeling or fatal in Luzon on Oct 16-18, 2009 in San Fernando, Pampanga, with its
impersonal, unromantic, piston-like love which Tom Wolfe likens attraction. When expressed in sex, it becomes just another activity theme: The Laity: changing self and society with Jesus and Mary.
to a baseball game: “the boy reaches first base when he kisses the for pleasure and convenience, without commitment, without regard This marks my first ever participation in the national convention
girl; second base, he touches her; third base they go all the way; for consequences. No wonder, consequence-less sex and sex-less and also completing my third participation in the Laiko regional
and home base means learning her name.” T.S. Eliot offers a more procreation have become quite popular among the young. They were gathering in Visayas, Mindanao and Luzon.
succinct version of eros: “the love that we feel between the desire brought up to believe that love and sex are trivial playthings. As a bishop from Mindanao and a member of the Episcopal
and the spasm”. The Pope declared in his encyclical: “God, the universal principle Commission on the Laity, it has been truly a privilege for me to
Sigmund Freud actually attempted to rehabilitate the word eros of creation is, at the same time, a lover with all the passion of a true come together, pray together, reflect together with our Catholic
in his 1920 book entitled Beyond the Pleasure Principle. Freud used love.” This means that God is not only the cold and rigid prime mover Laity from all over the country, whose mission in the renewal of
eros as synonymous NOT with sexual pleasure, but with the life force of the scholastics that pushes everything into motion; He is the pas- the temporal order is being accentuated in our country for the
that conquers the death instinct. For Freud, the pleasure principle is sionate lover who pulls or attracts everything towards Himself. last few years culminating in this year’s celebration of the Two
self-defeating. Seeking pleasure for its own sake leads to death. Hearts of Jesus and Mary for peace building and lay participa-
Pope Benedict carefully retrieves the original meaning of eros and Deus Caritas Est reminds us that eros is a force that pulls a person tion in social transformation.
restores it to respectability. As the title Deus Caritas Est suggests, to move beyond himself. It is eros that moves a man and woman to I would like to express my thanks to Bishop Roberto Mallari
the encyclical is about love. But he did not just talk about love in “go beyond” their selfish interests in order to commit themselves and Bro. Banjo Serrano, Co-Chairmen of the Local working
its most sublime form—charity (Latin: caritas / Greek: agape). With to each other’s welfare. It is eros that drives a person to give up his committee in the Archdiocese of San Fernando for the program
masterful pedagogy, he began with something more familiar to us: convenient lifestyle to serve others. It is eros that impels people to live they prepared for the delegates. I was truly given an up close
eros. Although love is one powerful force, it has two inseparable and die for a cause, a belief, or an ideology. Eros, as the philosopher and personal glimpse of the collaborative work of Laity and
dimensions: eros and agape. In God, the two are identified; but in Plato describes it, is the yearning for self-transcendence. Clergy in Pampanga, as they creatively allowed us to experi-
us, eros has to grow into charity. Benedict XVI’s encyclical beautifully summarizes all the foregoing ence vicariously 18 years later, the Pinatubo experience in the
The Pope used the word eros not in the sense of Kinsey or Freud, in one sentence: “Eros is rooted in man’s very nature. It drives us Lord’s Ascension Parish, as we saw and heard and felt the
but in the classical sense. Although he did not make reference to transcend ourselves.” St. Augustine wrote that ultimately, eros laity’s determination, together with their priests to rebuild
to Greek mythology, it is obvious that his description of eros is naturally drives men towards God because no earthly pleasure can the Parish of San Guillermo in Bacolor from the devastation
influenced by it. In Greek mythology, Eros is the god of love, the ever satisfy our deepest longing. In his Confessions, he puts this more of the lahar, as we sat and marveled at the beauty and artistry
creative force that breaks old forms to make new ones. Pictured in clearly: “Our hearts are restless until they rest in God.” We experience of centuries-old Santiago Apostol Church in Betis, as Father
many modern paintings as a chubby, mischievous, winged child the transformation of eros into charity when we see our restlessness Deo Galang passionately and illustratively shared with us the
with bow and arrow (Cupid in Roman mythology), Eros matured not as a mere natural or inherent drive towards satisfaction but, in Pampanga 2007 Election: a Pastoral Experience.
and reached his full potential only when his brother Anteros (Pas- the words of Francis Thompson, “shade of God’s hand, outstretched All of the above were ushered in on the very first day of the
sion) was born. The word passion, as its Latin etymology suggests, caressingly”, as he draws us to love Him who loved us first. convention with a taste of the unique Kapampangan experience
of the Crusade of Penance and Charity, its history and the ac-
tual procession with the Virgen delos Remedios and Sto. Cristo
Jose B. Lugay del Perdon. It was indeed an apt way to introduce us a special

Laiko’s rebirth
experience of the faithful of the local Church.
Thank you very much to all those who made these possible
Laiko Lampstand for us specially under the leadership of the beloved Archbishop
Aniceto, fondly called Apo Ceto, for the very warm and heart-
felt welcome and hospitality in Pampanga despite the threats of
INSPIRED by PCP II’s Acts and Decrees, the society considering the subsequent corrup- reaching out, that is, holding the conventions inclement weather.
incumbent President of LAIKO in 1992, An- tion at high places—the scandalous NBN- in Visayas and Mindanao, had to be repli- For this particular national convention and Laiko gathering in
tonio delos Reyes, chose the themes for the ZTE affair and the fertilizer scam during cated in Luzon. With the energetic President Luzon, a hymn was composed titled Laiko: Apostol ng Bagong
National Laity Week celebrations for the 3 the 2004 elections. There was no let up by of the Archdiocesan Council of the Laity, Milenyo, which was written by Jose Erwin Nucum who gladly
successive years focused on the Church of the CBCP in reminding the faithful, to elect men Banjo C. Serrano and the full time efforts of offered it to the Sangguniang Laiko ng Pilipinas to be its official
Home, the Church of the Poor and the Church of moral integrity. both LAIKO President Linda Tacorda and hymn. In it, the mission of the catholic laity is clearly declared—
of the Future. The Church of the Home, i.e., LAIKO’s National Director, sensitive to the Overall Convention Chairman, EVP Ed Laikong dakila, pinagpala ka! Sa basbas ng Poong Maykapal,
the Christian family, is the concern of the the needs of the time, supported the partici- Tirona, the program pushed through suc- tinawag kang maging alagad ng pagbabago ng sambayanan. Yes,
Episcopal Commission on Family and Life, pation of LAIKO’s members as Observers cessfully in spite of the recent calamities may our catholic laity truly become agents of change and clean
the Church of the Poor is the outreach of the in the government’s procurement process of Typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng and the up the way we do politics. As we know it is not enough to get one
social action and services of the Commission as decreed by Republic Act 9184. This led threat of the upcoming Typhoon Ramil. good Governor to do the work. Many, many more warm bodies
on Social Action, Justice and Peace while the to the formation of the Advocacy for Good The delegates from Luzon, Visayas and from all walks of life are needed to do the job. May Erwin’s song
Church of the Future, the evangelization of Governance group, supporting LAIKO’s Mindanao who were invited to the Biennial truly inspire many more lay people to commit themselves for
the youth, is the apostolate of the Episcopal involvement in social transformation. To Convention took time to discuss in groups, change. Thank you Erwin for your gift to Laiko.
Commission on the Youth. It is no wonder drum up LAIKO’s move for social trans- the current issues related to the theme “The Indeed, as in Jaro, Iloilo and Malaybalay, Bukidnon, I again
then that some parishes just paid lip service formation the following theme was chosen Laity: Changing Self and Society with Jesus encountered in Pampanga the emerging Catholic Laity, informed,
to LAIKO’s recommended themes for the for the National Laity Week celebration in and Mary.” The inspiration for this theme is formed and brave of heart in responding to the challenges of
celebration of the LAIKO Week. In short, Jaro: “The Laity: Primary Agents of Change the CBCP’s pastoral statements on the “Year Church renewal and the daunting task of renewing politics in
the activities for the LAIKO’s National Laity Towards Honesty and Integrity for Good of the Two Hearts for Peace Building and this country.
Week themes were duplication of the services Governance.” With the full support of CBCP Lay Participation in Social Change” issued I am truly edified by the vitality and dedication our Laity to
of other CBCP Episcopal Commissions. President Archbishop Angel V. Lagdameo, on July 12, 2009. fulfill their mission in the Church and in the world. However,
Lay organizations, movements and as- LAIKO for the first time went out of Manila In spite of the typhoon, and the sudden everywhere, the challenge for them remains to be the engage-
sociations, which consist of half of LAIKO’s to hold the forum—first Regional LAIKO illness of the main speaker, Fr. Catalino Are- ment of the temporal order to permeate it with the Gospel values.
organization also called LOMAS in Visayas Assembly in the Visayas held in the Arch- valo, S.J., the show went on with success. This is particularly evident in the sphere of politics where most
and Mindanao were looked upon as doing diocese of Jaro. The affair was so successful Bishop Pablo Virgilio S. David, Auxiliary of our catholic laity find themselves inadequate or have found
its own thing and not supporting the pro- that it gave LAIKO the drive to replicate Bishop of San Fernando, a former student a comfortable dichotomy between their faith and politics. But
grams of the diocese. (An example of this the experience in the Luzon and Mindanao of Fr. Arevalo, creditably substituted for Bishop Pablo David, in his simple, clear and provocative talk
came out during the question and answer Regions and dwell on the people’s concerns his mentor—with great success; well ap- on the Mission of the Laity in the Church, moved the delegates
period). Hence the bishops of the concerned about governance, the destruction of envi- plauded by the LAIKO participants. He in mysterious ways, because indeed it was no longer Bishop
dioceses veered away from supporting pro- ronment and what LAIKO as a group can explained the “Role of the Laity in the Ambo moving us it was God himself through him. Thanks,
grams of Sangguniang Laiko ng Pilipinas, do realizing the strength of being together World” very clearly and dovetailed this Bishop Ambo.
the umbrella organization of the LOMAD when supporting advocacies for the com- into the laity’s needed participation in The national convention was highlighted by the election of the
and the DCL’s. Some of the dioceses did not mon good. The success of the Laity forum principled politics. new board of trustees and the new set of officers for 2010-2011,
form Diocesan Councils of the Laity. They in the Visayas in 2008 was duplicated when The participants’ exposure trip to the headed by the next president Edgardo J.T. Tirona of the Society
preferred to operate with their existing Di- LAIKO celebrated its Regional meeting in parishes of San Fernando gave the delegates of St. Vincent de Paul. I was very happy to learn that our very
ocesan Pastoral Councils which include the Mindanao, Diocese of Malaybalay, with from all over the Philippines the extent of own Bro. Solomon Badoy of the Archdiocese of Cotabato was
officers of Lay Organizations who invari- the theme, “The Laity: Servant Leaders of the tragedy of the Mt. Pinatubo eruption elected executive vice president for Mindanao, who also currently
ably headed the Temporalities and Family Renewal: True to the theme, the Mindanao and the Filipino’s bayanihan spirit, the same heads the interim lay core group of Mindanao. Rest assured that
Life Committees of the WESTY structure laity, inspired by the clergy, did one bet- spirit recently shown by our kababayans in here in Mindanao and Daditama particularly, you have a friend
of the parishes. ter in the area of principled politics which the Typhoon Ondoy and Pepeng disasters. and supporter. God speed!
The CBCP’s pastoral statements after PCP was the new mandate of CBCP. The BEC- The visit to San Guillermo Parish was The 16th Laiko national convention was a fitting culmination
II became more focused on the ills of Phil- Mindanao’s communities of disciples were capped with a tour of a collection of the old of my very formative and enriching journey with Laiko headed
ippine society from the time of the People given written guidelines on the desired church’s images along the corridors of the by Ms. Linda Tacorda, President with the laiko Board of Trust-
Power revolution to the ouster of Marcos, the selection process for candidates. They even lahar-inundated church, where only one ees and the CBCP Episcopal Commission on the Laity, under
dictator, up to the Hello Garci scandal of the published a pamphlet, Talitha Kuom, a vot- third of the original building was above the leadership of Bishop Gabby Reyes of Antipolo together
incumbent President. The longest pastoral ers’ guide specially written for those who ground. Still the Pampangueños, rebuilt with the other members: Abp. Lagdameo of Jaro, Bp. Odchi-
statement, a 60 page write-up on Philippine were previously voting according to the whatever was above ground, preserving the mar of Tandag, Bp. Pacana of Malaybalay, and Bp. Villena of
politics by then CBCP President Oscar Cruz command of their landlords or bosses. archaelogy—the atmosphere of the original Bayombong. With them I have had a singular opportunity to
seemed to have no effect at all on Philippine The successful experience in LAIKO’s Laiko / A6 touch base with the Catholic lay leaders all over the country.
It has been a privilege journeying with you all. For comments:
[email protected]
Fr. Carmelo O. Diola, SSL

Lessons from the flood Quote in the Act

Spaces of Hope
“I wish to remember the missionaries—priests, religious
ONDO is a term of endearment in the Visayas. Modify the ending— It is no mere coincidence that the first 11 chapters of Genesis talks men and women, and lay volunteers—who have
and Ondoy becomes even cute. about God’s original plan and the beginnings and spread of sin; and consecrated their existence to bring the gospel to the
Typhoon Ondoy, however, was neither endearing nor cute. that chapter 7-9 deal with Noah and the great flood. Man’s broken- world and in so doing face hardships and difficulties,
Leaving in its aftermath the worst flooding in Metro Manila and its ness spills over into nature. St. Paul notes this when he writes that
environs in 40 years, Ondoy was a nightmare of death and destruc- “the world itself will be freed from its slavery to corruption and
and even persecution.”
tion. A month’s volume of rain had fallen in a period of 9 hours and share in the glorious freedom of the children of God. Yes, we know Pope Benedict XVI, paying tribute to Catholic missionaries
much of this water had nowhere to go. that all creation groans and is in agony even until now” (Romans scattered around the world during the celebration of World
A well-researched article by Gemma Mendoza (“Flooding in 8: 21-22). Human enslavement and freedom find expression in and Mission Sunday on October 18 in the Vatican; where he hailed
Metro, Who is to Blame”) notes: “Climate change, population pres- with the environment. kidnapped priest Fr. Michael Sinnott’s work even in the face of
sure, and the fact that proper urban planning is bogged down by Man’s intrinsic connection with the earth is the context of last Sun- terrible danger.
politics and corruption in government exacerbate matters. And even day’s reading from Genesis 2. Man (“adam”), derived and formed
without these factors…about a fifth (of) Metro Manila is naturally from humus (“adamah”), is painstakingly and loving fashioned by “The souls in purgatory need our prayers more than the
flood prone.” There is a confluence of factors. God. Man has godlike powers when is asked to give names to other distracting music and party atmosphere that characterize
The article cites a study showing that floods in Metro Manila have creatures. Out of his ribs comes a suitable partner. From the soil, to our current way of remembering the dead.”
become more numerous and destructive. Ground water extraction, other living beings, and to other human beings—we are all part of a
population pressures, and erosion due to rampant logging and web of relationships that need to be respected and nurtured. Archbishop Angel Lagdameo, president of the Catholic Bish-
quarrying in the outskirts of the metropolis have contributed to the The flood offers many lessons. A nation of compassionate people ops’ Conference of the Philippines; on the practice of playing loud
situation. Siltation has reduced the water-holding capacity of Laguna may be emerging, one sharing a common experience of pain and music and doing other inappropriate activities in cemeteries on
All Souls’ Day.
de Bay by as much as 64 percent. suffering but one that is also beginning to understand, reason, and
Garbage clogs the natural passageways (“esteros”) of water with act together in the face of crises. Only a truly loving, concerted,
21 thousand squatter families living in these areas and urban dwell- and decisive response—already seen in the stories of heroism and “I’m much better off than many others and God has been
ers daily dumping the equivalent of 600 truckloads of garbage in inspiring action in the spirit of volunteerism—from all of us, can kinder to me than I deserve.”
these waterways. Many private subdivisions, commercial buildings, mitigate such disasters. 93-year old Fr. James Reuter, SJ, former Executive secretary of
and even schools clog or alter these waterways. Yet such crisis-driven volunteerism is only the first step. Daily CBCP Commission on Social Communications and Mass Media,
Poverty, human irresponsibility, greed, and poor choices—as acts of good citizenship and good leadership are needed—with our while confined at the Our Lady of Peace Hospital following days
much as topography and climate change—have to do with the Christian faith to fuel and sustain our efforts. Only then will other of battling from pneumonia.
recent calamity. Ondoys be tamed. Only then will we build a nation.
 Local News
CBCP Monitor
A6 Vol. 13 No. 22
October 26 - November 8, 2009

US help sought in kidnap case

COLUMBAN missionaries have asked the US government’s help spanning the two Lanao provinces in Central Mindanao.
for the safe release of an Irish Catholic priest kidnapped in Southern
Philippines last Sunday.
Columban missionaries working in the US said the help of the
It said it has also imposed a naval blockade in the coastal areas to
prevent the abductors from slipping away.
Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesman Lt. Col. Romeo
Simulation of polling precinct
Obama administration might actually work to safely recover Fr.
Michael Sinnott.
In a letter sent to US Secretary of State Hilary Clinton, the mis-
Brawner said the military has already identified four of the six
suspects, allegedly members of a criminal syndicate that had been
involved in kidnapping in the region, who snatched Sinnott from
highlights PPCRV anniversary
sionaries said they fear for the safety of the 79-year old priest as his home in Pagadian City. IN celebration of the 18th founding anniversary of the Parish
Philippine government forces started its rescue operation. Foreign and local missionaries have a history of being targeted by Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV), a simulation
“We ask that all peaceful measures be taken to locate Fr. Sinnott Islamic militants in Mindanao region. of the Precinct Count Optical Scan (PCOS) voting process was
and negotiate his release,” the letter to Mrs. Clinton read. In 1998, priest Luciano Benedetti was seized by gunmen but was conducted at the Manila Cathedral School in Tondo, Manila on
Same letter was also sent to Philippine Ambassador to the US, freed 10 weeks after. October 24.
Willy Gaa. Another Italian missionary, Giuseppe Pierantoni, was abducted Dubbed as the “Pagbabago Ako Mismo. Boto Ko ang Sagot,”
“We ask that you respond in all due haste, as Fr. Sinnott has a by armed men in 2000. He escaped six months later. the activity was facilitated by the Commission on Elections
heart condition and is, as far as we know, without his medication,” Others were not as lucky. Filipino priest Rhoel Gallardo was (COMELEC) of the 2nd district of Tondo and the Smartmatic-
it added. kidnapped by Al Qaeda-linked Abu Sayyaf militants along with 50 Tim.
They noted that the Irish priest has lived for 40 years in the school children on Basilan Island in 2000. Organizers said about 40 voters participated in the mock activ-
Philippines, and one of his most recent ministries has been in The children were later rescued, but Gallardo was tortured to ity on the usage of the PCOS machine.
school for children and young adults with special needs in Pa- death. Vulnerable sectors from the 2nd district of Tondo such as the
gadian City. In 2007, gunmen abducted Italian missionary Fr Giancarlo Bossi overlooked youth, persons with disabilities and the underserved
The Philippine military have started to close in on the kidnappers from the Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions. He was freed more poor are the expected attendees of the gathering.
of Sinnott following reports that they were spotted in the jungles than a month later. (Roy Lagarde) Dignitaries who graced the anniversary were Msgr. Claro Matt
Garcia, Director of the Manila Cathedral School, Auxiliary Bishop
Model / A1 Broderick Pabillo, Chairman of the CBCP’s National Secretariat
for Social Action, Justice and Peace (NASSA) and COMELEC
Chairman Jose Melo.
PPCRV was founded in October 1991 as a response of the laity
to the call of the Church for transformation of society.
Among those that strongly supported the foundation of PPCRV
were the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP);
then Manila Archbishop Jaime Cardinal Sin; Ambassador Hen-
rietta de Villa; then Atty. Artemio Panganiban; Atty Reynaldo
Pacheco and Dr. Zenaida Rotea. (Kate Laceda)

Evacuation centers / A1
ning. There should be at least decent evacuation centers so that it
would be easy to convince disaster victims to vacate their homes,”
Cenzon said.
He said telling the public to go to evacuation centers whenever
necessary will never be easy as long as the people “dreaded”
the idea.
The church official said evacuation centers, especially in Northern
Luzon region, have insufficient facilities such as toilets.
The government, through the National Disaster Coordinating
Council (NDCC), currently uses school buildings, multipurpose
facilities, and even churches as temporary evacuation centers.
Cenzon also said that a properly planned relocation sites should
be put in place so that evacuation will not be necessary anymore
every time there is an impending calamity.
The NDCC has asked residents in landslide-prone areas in Ben-
guet and Mt. Province to go on pre-emptive evacuation and head
© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media

to safer grounds as typhoon “Ramil” inched closer to Northern

Luzon last week.
The region is still in the process of recovering from the devastation
brought by typhoon “Pepeng” recently with a number of landslides
that claimed hundreds of lives.
He noted that some of the residents have just returned from
their homes after being forced to evacuate during the onslaught of
With few more days left before the celebration of All Saints’ and All Souls’ Day, some have started visiting the graves of loved ones buried at the Libingan ng mga
typhoon “Pepeng”. (CBCPNews)
Bayani in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Values / A1
a specific feast day, the Church for practi- Church’s teachings that the soul of anyone and decorating graves of loved ones with who attended the Signis World Congress in Chiang Mai, Thailand
cal and pastoral reasons has designated a who had died needs to be “purified” before lights and other ornaments, aside from the held from Oct. 17-21.
particular day to celebrate all the saints in it can enter heaven. usual candles and flowers. Interviewed at the sidelines during the congress, the priest said
heaven. But he added the Church “has no official Lagdameo said it is very important to “there should be a revival of values and virtues” with regards to
“November 1 is a memorial day especially teaching as to the place and duration and have prayers and masses offered for the media productions intended for children.
for the many unnamed, unknown or un- nature of this purification.” deceased. He said the theme of the convention was very relevant to the
recognized saints, inhabitants of heaven,” “The Church believes that there is purifi- “The souls in purgatory need our prayers Philippine situation today “because we really have to focus on our
Lagdameo explained. cation of believers prior to entering heaven more than the distracting music and party children in preserving their rights since they will be the future of
He said putting aside a day during the and that, prayers and masses of the faithful atmosphere that characterize our current our church and the future of the whole world.”
year to celebrate all the saints make up for the benefit those in the state of purgation,” he way of remembering the dead,” he said. The world congress had reflected on the theme: “Media for a
“deficiency in our celebration of the saint’s said. In some cemeteries and memorial parks, Culture of peace: Children’s rights, tomorrow’s promise.”
feast during the year.” Lagdameo noted that it was the Church families stay for three days to keep vigil. “In terms of productions, based on the workshops that I attended
Fathers who expounded the idea of “purga- Prayers and chants recited for the dead of- there is, I believe, this empowerment of our children,” Buenafe
Feast of all martyrs tion of sin through fire after death.” tentimes compete with the noise of endless said.
Historically known as the feast of all mar- “All Souls’ Day is an opportunity to chatter of people and loud music coming He noted that back home, most of the productions even if they are
tyrs, in particular the martyrs during the remember, to pray for and offer Masses to from karaokes. made for children, “are mostly leaning towards sex and violence.”
persecution in the early centuries, All Saints’ our departed in the state of purification,” Although the fiesta-like celebration is a When asked if it means TV Maria will soon come out with quality
Day used to be celebrated on the first Sunday he added. manifestation of the thought that the de- TV productions, he quipped, “That’s what we are hoping for.”
after Pentecost. The practice of praying for the dead dates ceased are already in heaven, Lagdameo “With regards to our productions, a lot of time we tried to
It was later transferred to November 1 back to the time of early persecutions of said still “it is good to observe a subdued see them what they would do and what should be the outcome,
during the time of Pope Gregory III who, Christians. Then Christians would gather in atmosphere in the cemetery so that those and to see and hear what they can contribute based on their
in the 8th century dedicated a new chapel catacombs to pray for their dead believing who want to pray can pray well.” experience and based on what they want to share with the
in St. Peter’s Basilica and for the first time that their prayers would deliver the soul of “It is good to observe a religious atmo- children—children teaching children and even children teach-
celebrated the feast for all the saints. the dead from purgatory. The significance sphere especially in catholic cemeteries,” ing adults,” he said.
The celebration was later extended to the of praying for the dead is also mentioned he stressed. Buenafe said the world convention “really set the fire in our
universal Church by Pope Gregory IV in the in Scriptures. “My advice to the faithful is to offer spe- hearts so that we can inflame in our hearts the gospel of our Lord
9th century. cial prayers to the dead on these days. It Jesus Christ through the mass media of communication.” (Pinky
Bringing food and other practices is the most important thing we can do for Barrientos, FSP)
All Souls’ Day Current practices being observed during them more than anything else,” the prelate
Lagdameo explained that it is part of the feasts are bringing of food for the dead added. Laiko / A5
church. It is the reliquary of the famous Santino’s Bro (the cruci-
Not to disturb / A1 fied Christ in the TV series “May Bukas Pa”). LAIKO delegates
flocking to the cemeteries in All Souls' Day, TCDS dedicates Acceptance of Death, which know what to say or do. So this were also welcomed to the St. James the Apostle Parish Church
those days. some of its monthly issues on concludes the novena.” booklet will help take away that in Betis, Guagua, Pampanga by Archdiocesan Council President
He added that the govern- Purgatory and the importance "To me, it captures the ideal awkwardness." Banjo and the parish priest followed by a sharing on “Evangelizing
ment, no matter under whose of offering prayers for the dead over-all attitude we should Second, "it will help deepen Politics: Pampanga 2007 Election a Pastoral Experience” by Rev. Fr.
administration, facilitate the and other related topics like have toward death, putting it our faith and enhance our piety Deogracias Kerr S. Galang.
commemoration of these Chris- Cremation. in a good light, like a friend or for the dead, providing us with The term of LAIKO’s president is limited to two years. We give
tian traditions by declaring Patio said that every issue of sister and not a hunter eager to appropriate thoughts, words credit to President Linda Tacorda, who practically spent all these
these days as public non-work- the Documentation Service is hunt us down," he said. and gestures. It can give more two years away from her Teresiana responsibilities. She devoted all
ing holidays and by providing monographic, that is, dedicated The TCDS former editor cited meaning to our commemoration her time to convince the dioceses that LAIKO is here to serve them
assistance of police and other to a concrete topic, oftentimes of that even in these high-tech of the dead, freeing us also from and to work harmoniously as a team with the other commissions
agencies to help maintain public current interest in the Church times, devotionals like Novena traces of superstition that unfor- of CBCP for the betterment of the Philippine Church. We hope that
order. or society. The publication is for the Dead are still relevant. tunately have also found their what she left behind is LAIKO’s rebirth which will be continued by
Patio also observed that, on meant to be an excellent re- First, "because often our way into our practices through the new board for 2010–2011. We congratulate the following new
the other hand, many people source for personal enrichment goodwill for the dead is not the years. It is a good material LAIKO officers who will be reporting to a new National Director
must have forgotten the true and to prepare conferences, adequately supported by solid to have when visiting wakes or of LAIKO, Bishop Jesus Mercado, recently appointed by CBCP to
meaning of these commemo- talks and homilies. devotional acts. Precisely be- cemeteries, celebrating death take over the ten-year termer, LAIKO National Director, Bishop
rations as seen in the lack of In the same vein of All Saints' cause of this, many of us find anniversaries or All Souls’ Day." Gabriel Reyes.
atmosphere of prayer in the Day and All Souls' Day, Patio ourselves clumsy. We do not (Fr. Mickey Cardenas)
visits to cemeteries and other also presented another cat- Sangguniang Laiko ng Pilipinas
similar occasions such as wakes echetical tool and devotional, Hailed / A1 Board Members (2010-2011)
or funerals. a booklet titled, Novena for the details at this time,” Fr. Gilbert Hingone, spokesperson of the Diocese
The very purpose why the Dead, compiled by Fr. Fernand of Pagadian City, said in a statement. President : Mr. Edgardo J. Tria Tirona
Church calls the people to gath- Cruz, S.T.D., and published He said the ransom was never discussed during the first negotia- Executive Vice –President : Atty. Aurora A. Santiago
er together is for them to pray by Theological Centrum. The tions between the emissaries of the kidnappers and representatives V.P. Ecclesiastical Province of Manila: Mrs. Estelita A. Macalagu-
and to console one another and booklet puts together not only from the diocesan clergy. im
to meditate together about the prayers and readings but also Reportedly, the local Church and the captors made their first V.P. Luzon: Dr. Amelita Dayrit-Go
meaning of God being with us relevant Christian doctrine contact October 26. V.P. Visayas: Mr. Antonio C. Galaraga
whether in life and or in death. about death. Hingone refused to talk about the identities of the abductors and V.P. Mindanao: Mr. Solomon T. Badoy
But the way things are, Patio Fr. Roy Cimagala, TDCS for- insisted the Church’s paramount concern now is the delivery of Treasurer: Mr. Manuel D. Recto
said, it seems that these gather- mer editor, has observed that medicine for the ailing missionary and his eventual release. Secretary: Ms. Ma. Julieta F. Wasan
ings have turned into reunions “the Novena for the Dead is a “Medicine for Fr. Michael is on its way through an emissary,” he Auditor: Mr. Danilo H. Arroyo
at best, or gambling or drinking booklet meant to help strength- said without giving other details. P.R.O.: Atty. Jose T. Tale
sprees at worst. en our faith in Christian death, He instead asked the people to pray and continue praying “for the
"We visit cemeteries to pray giving us a clear picture of the immediate and unconditional release of Fr. Michael.” Trustees:
for the dead, not to disturb why and wherefore of our life Meanwhile, Fr. Patrick O’Donoghue, MSSC, Fr. Sinnott’s Superior Ms. Nida M. Ruiz
them," Patio stressed. and death here on earth.” refused to comment on the report. Judge Candido P. Villanueva
To support the Church's effort Cimagala added that “a very He said he has not received any word about the reported nego- Engr. Victorino V. Lahoz
to re-evangelize popular occa- interesting part of the Novena tiations as of Tuesday afternoon. (Roy Lagarde/Edwin Fernandez/ Mrs. Gertrudes E. Bautista
sions such as All Saints' Day and for the Dead is the prayer called, Melo M. Acuña) Mrs. Zenaida F. Capistrano
 Diocesan News
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 13 No. 22
October 26 - November 8, 2009
A7

Briefing Legazpi residents up

Shun politics, bishop prods new deacons
OZAMIZ CITY—Archbishop Jesus Dosado called on newly-
ordained deacons to live in obedience to their ordinary and not
get involved in partisan politics as they entered in the rank of
ordained ministers. Three Theology graduate from the Saint
Mary Theologate Seminary, Gango district were ordained dea-
in arms vs casino
LEGAZPI CITY—The Alyansa Kontra Casino will not rest until all
forms of gambling in the city and the province of Albay are totally
to build it in a luxury resort in the adjacent municipality of Bacacay.
He added that he has already requested the help of the Vicarial
cons in a ceremony led by Dosado at the Immaculate Conception eradicated. SAC and that of SAC Bacacay to help their coalition in monitoring
Cathedral, Oct. 6. (Wendell Talibong) This was the statement of Fr. Ramoncito Segubiense in an inter- the developments of the issue from their end and at the same time
view over Radio Veritas Legazpi recently. conduct similar activities to block the plan.
People need catechesis on RH bill—Calapan prelate Segubiense, who heads the diocesan Social Action Center (SAC), Meanwhile, Segubiense pledged to call for a meeting on the issue.
CALAPAN CITY— For others it may be “no big deal” due to said there will be no let-up in their group’s campaign now after In addition, Segubiense vowed to look into reports that more than
lack of catechesis, but for the church it is something that needs they discovered plans to establish a casino in the province are be- 10 gambling stalls (colored games, ping-pong, etc.) are operating
discussion and serious concern. Calapan Bishop Warlito Cajan- ing revived. behind the fiesta flea market in the heart of downtown Legazpi
dig said the lack of concern from ordinary Catholics shows they It will be recalled it was this alliance that virtually stopped the launch- making the feast of St. Raphael Archangel an excuse.
are not aware of the doctrines of the church on the sanctity of ing of a high-class gambling establishment at the newly-built business Anti-gambling advocates believed these stalls will likely continue
life. (Fely Sevilla) hub near the port of the city in the later part of July this year. to operate well into the Christmas season if left unchecked.
After a series of aggressive media campaign, forums and direct con- The Alyansa Kontra Casino is a group of anti-gambling advocates
Columbans renew trust on crisis committee over rescue frontations, that proposal was finally withdrawn by its proponents. led by the Diocese of Legazpi and representatives from other faith-
efforts Segubiense said information reached his office about the plan to set up based organizations, NGOs, academe, militant groups and concerned
PAGADIAN CITY—The Columban Society in the Philippines the casino has again been revived and that the promoters are planning citizens. (Joey B. Garalde)
has reiterated its trust and support on the Crisis Management

P200k reward up for info

Committee chaired by Gov. Aurora Cerilles over rescue ef-
forts of kidnapped Fr. Sinnott. It said the letter of American
Columbans asking help from the US government did not mean
to doubt the capability of the Committee but was done out of
fraternal concern for the immediate release of their confrere.

on Sinnott’s location
(Wendell Talibong)

Palawan Vicariate hosts IP Sunday Celebration

TAYTAY, Palawan—The Diocesan Social Action Center-
Apostolic Vicariate of Taytay that seeks to uplift the quality of PAGADIAN CITY— The local government add to the cash reward.
life of the poor and marginalized sectors in Northern Palawan here has approved a reward of P200, 000 Informants may contact the Task Force
hosted the Vicarial Indigenous Peoples’ Sunday Celebration for any information that would lead to the Zebra hotlines: (062) 2154-4360 and (062)
last Oct. 25, at the diocese’s mission center. The vicariate said immediate release or rescue of abducted 2154-4361.
the event was aimed to create responsiveness among the non- Columban priest Fr. Michael Sinnott. Cerilles has appealed to anybody who
indigenous population in the area about the history, ethnicity The reward was approved by Mayor has information on the whereabouts of Fr.
and customs of the indigenous peoples in Northern Palawan. Samuel Co and will be released to rightful Sinnott to contact the Task Force Zebra
(Kate Laceda) recipients through the local crisis manage- hotlines.
ment committee activated for the crisis. Armed men kidnapped Fr. Sinnott in Pa-
Police denies alleged location of kidnapped priest The giving of reward is contained in a gadian City last Oct. 11, but no group has so
TUBOD, Lanao Del Norte—PNP Provincial Director S/Supt. resolution by the city government and was far came forward to claim the responsibility
Minoy Darimbang of Lanao del Norte has denied reports that Fr. recommended to the Crisis Management for the incident.
Sinnott is being held captive by his abductors in Brgy. Payong, Committee chaired by Zamboanga del Sur The Moro Islamic Liberation Front denied
Sultan Naga Dimaporo. Darimbang said the report has never Gov. Aurora Enerio-Cerilles. involvement in the abduction and had of-
been confirmed by any reliable resource even by Lanao Governor The resolution stressed that the informa- fered to help secure Sinnott’s release.
Khalid Dimaporo. (Wendell Talibong) tion on the location of Fr. Sinnott must in- Crisis management spokesman and Zam-
clude a “proof of life” and that it may lead boanga del Sur public information office
CBCP conducts migrants’ awareness seminar in Bacolod to his safe release. chief Allan June Molde earlier said they are
BACOLOD CITY—The CBCP’s Commission on Migrants and Co said they are also appealing the help “very, very worried" over the priest’s health
of any civic organizations that may wish to Fr. Michael Sinnott condition. (Wendell Talibong)
Itinerant People has conducted a Diocesan Awareness Seminar
on Migrants’ Apostolate. Organized by the Commission on

Bishop calls for disaster preparedness,

Migrants of the Diocese of Bacolod, the seminar was held last
September 26-27, 2009 at the Redemptorist Hall in Bacolod City.
The Social Costs of Migration and Strengthening Migrant Family

environmental protection
Affairs through Reintegration were among the topics tackled.
(Kate Laceda)

Priest says being prophetic means to animate

community CALAPAN, Oriental Mindoro— informal settlers who were heavy rains and floods. Mass, a power point presenta-
DAVAO CITY—“Biking priest” Fr. Amado Picardal said it is “How prepared is Mindoro rendered homeless by the pre- Gariguez said it will do no tion be made on the basics of
not enough that a priest becomes prophetic; most importantly, Oriental for disasters?” This vious typhoons. harm for everyone to study their natural calamities and disaster
he must animate the community at the parish and the BECs was one of the questions raised She was quoted saying some respective land use plans to pre- preparedness.
level to be truly prophetic. He said that a priest must eventually by Calapan Bishop Warlito Ca- families who were relocated vent construction of homes in the Ordinances may be passed
influence or convince others to make a prophetic stance since jandig during a meeting with to safer grounds returned to identified critical areas. to prevent the construction of
the prophetic mission is not the monopoly of the clergy. (Mark provincial officials last Oct. 12 at what has been described as “This is the appropriate time homes in flood-prone and other
S. Ventura) Provincial Capitol, this city. “danger zones.” to study the land use plans and critical areas, he added.
The prelate said there are areas Fr. Edu Gariguez, a repre- involve their respective commu- The towns of Naujan, Vic-
Parish priests take lead in rehab programs in Calapan which used to be wa- sentative of the church and nities in their future activities,” toria, Baco and this city have
URDANETA CITY—As local residents begin to recover from terways but now host buildings Alyansa laban sa Mina (ALA- he said. their respective critical areas or
the floods that brought untold miseries last week, Urdaneta and even public markets. MIN), said there are local gov- Provincial Administrator hazard zones.
Bishop Jacinto Jose said rehabilitation programs will have to He called on government offi- ernment units without disaster Adel Abas said the church A bigger forum has been
be designed by various parishes through their respective Com- cials not only to focus on disaster preparedness programs. and the people need to work scheduled for the end of October
mittees on Service with their parish priests. “We have decided preparedness but introduce re- He suggested that local gov- together making it easy for where the four local government
to raise funds for our rehabilitation program but we will not medial and corrective measures ernment officials meet with government to coordinate in units will be represented along
hand out cash to the flood victims,” the 58-year old prelate for the malpractices done to the church leaders to review their the distribution of relief goods with church officials of Apostolic
said. (Melo Acuña) environment. municipal disaster mitigat- during emergencies. Vicariate of Calapan to discuss
Provincial Social Welfare ing plans and study their re- Vice Governor Maria Estrella specific strategies to prevent loss
Officer Teresita Umbao said spective geo hazard maps to Aceron suggested that after of human lives and properties.
Isabela Prelature holds pastoral assembly
there is a need to attend to the pinpoint critical areas during every celebration of the Holy (Fely Sevilla)
ISABELA, Basilan— The Prelature of Isabela, preparing for its
Golden Jubilee as a local church in 2013, held its Third Pastoral Candidly / A4
Assembly with over 100 participants from its various parishes, also, no doubt, but struggling to love God ting it in a good light, like a friend or sister the dead, providing us with appropriate
Oct. 9. With special emphasis on the “signs of the times,” the just the same. and not a hunter eager to hunt us down. thoughts, words and gestures. It can give
assembly reflected on the community’s and society’s concerns. Thus, I was happy to take hold of a booklet It helps us to understand that with Christ’s more meaning to our commemoration of the
Isabela Bishop Martin Jumoad emphasized that “if there is re- titled, Novena for the Dead, compiled by Fr. work of redemption that culminated with his dead, freeing us also from traces of supersti-
newal within, then, there can be renewal in the church.” (Melo Fernand Cruz and published by Theological death on the cross, the sting of death itself has tion that unfortunately have also found their
M. Acuña) Centrum of Manila that puts together not been eliminated. In its place is the balm of our way into our practices through the years.
only prayers and readings but also the rel- salvation, a very Christian outlook on death. It certainly can help in creating a proper at-
evant Christian doctrine about death. Truth is, often our goodwill for the dead is mosphere on these occasions that often have
It can strengthen our faith in Christian not adequately supported by solid devotion- seen the proliferation of rather inappropriate
death, giving us a clear picture of the why and ary acts. Precisely because of this, many of pastimes like card games and mahjongs.
wherefore of our life and death here on earth. us find ourselves clumsy. We do not know In short, with this booklet and all the other
This, to me, is becoming a real necessity, given what to say or do. similar ones, we can expect to improve and
the ignorance and confusion engulfing us. This booklet will help take away that awk- mature in our understanding of death.
The reflections are gathered from a wide wardness. I consider
RP jail / A1
variety of writings from saints and Church it a good material to
teachings that surely will guide us in our have when visiting of other alternatives the Christian way,” said Bishop Arigo.
tribute to the dead. There are several cita- wakes or celebrat- The church has been advocating “restorative justice” which gives
tions from St. Augustine and St. Josemaria ing death anniversa- emphasis on restitution rather than retribution.
Escriva. ries or the All Souls’ The CBCP official said restorative justice is concerned neither with
A very interesting part is the prayer called, Day. blame and punishment nor with forgiving and forgetting but telling,
Acceptance of Death that concludes the I t w i l l d e e p e n repenting, forgiving and healing.
novena. To me, it captures the ideal over-all our faith and en- “The goal of restorative justice is to change wrongdoers and,
attitude we should have toward death, put- hance our piety for insofar as possible, to make wrongs right,” he said.

Need to overhaul justice system

May They Be One Bible Campaign The country’s criminal justice system need to be overhauled to
The May They Be One Bible campaign turned one year old on September give prisoners and convicts the chance to lead new lives.
30 in a celebration of prayers. The MTBO prayer, both in English and Tagalog, Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines’ Episcopal
was disseminated nationwide via text brigade. On October 14, four MTBO Commission on Prison Pastoral Care Executive Secretary Rodolfo
Advisory Committee members led by Bishop Broderick Pabillo paid a courtesy Diamante said the current economic crisis drives people to commit
call to Cardinal Gaudencio Rosales at the Arzobispado. The group expressed crimes, especially crimes against property.
appreciation for the Cardinal’s encouragement and warm support for the na- “Poverty leads people to commit crimes and if you have a corrupt
tionwide Bible Campaign which was launched in September 2008.
system, then the poor would always land in jail,” Diamante said.
Target No. of Bibles for Distribution for 2009: 100,000 cps. Diamante said there is a need to create a separate executive entity
No. of Bibles Distributed (from January-September): 69.118 which may be called the Department of Corrections to address the
concerns of minors in conflict with the law, detention prisoners and
1. RTPV (Tagalog) — 35,063 cps convicted prisoners.
2. TEV (English) — 10,000 cps He said the proposed department will take responsibility over
3. BPV (Bicol) — 1,001 cps
4. RCPV (Cebuano) — 15,239 cps facilities under the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, the
5. HPV (Hiligaynon) — 4,999 cps provincial jails under the provincial governors and the national
6. RIPV (Ilocano) — 2,457 cps penitentiary and its penal farms, including the women’s correctional
7. PnPV (Pangasinense) — 351 cps which fall under the Department of Justice.
Diamante said most executives lack the political will to address
TOTAL 69,118 cps the concerns of the justice system. He lamented the fact that most
Parishes/Communities covered: 223 politicians would rather pursue their personal interests over good
Key distribution areas in September: Bukidnon, Manila, Cubao, Iba, Zambales, governance.
Nueva Viscaya He added that there are 86 units of diocesan prison pastoral care
volunteers across the country.
Total Funds Needed for Printing and Transport of Bibles in 2009: P 5M He also acknowledged their sincere dedication to help prisoners
Amount raised from September 2008 - September 2009: P 1,300,470 in their respective areas. He said each unit has a membership of 20
Total amount to be raised: P 3.5M
to 100 volunteers. (CBCPNews)
 A8 People, Facts & Places CBCP Monitor
Vol. 13 No. 22
October 26 - November 8, 2009

Catholic Media practitioners

gather for world congress munication, relayed the Holy Father’s message to the
participants.
The pope underscored the significance of the congress’
theme, saying that “it is important to hear their [children]
voices and learn from them… [and] see them as protago-
nists of the present.”
Reflecting on the theme in his opening address, Signis
World president Augustine Loorthusamy noted that
the congress’ theme made the assembly different from
previous gatherings.
He said that as professional communicators “we are
© Pinky Barrientos, FSP / CBCP Media

© Pinky Barrientos, FSP / CBCP Media

morally bound to open up opportunities for our young to
express themselves and to help us see the world we have
created through their eyes, their frame of reference.”
True to its theme, the congress had involved young
students from the city’s Catholic schools in the prepara-
tions and Congress’ proceedings.
“You will see many young people creatively and ac-
tively involved here,” Loorthusamy said. “You will see
them in action and we encourage you to interact with
them,” he added.
A group of Filipino delegates joined hundreds of Catholic media practitioners in the 2009 Signis World Congress held in Chiang Mai, Thailand, October 17-21. The convention of Around 100 children from three Catholic schools in
Signis World or World Catholic Association for Communication has brought together 568 media professionals from 69 countries around the world.
the city have participated in the workshops facilitated
HUNDREDS of Catholic media professionals gathered at Chiang Mai, Thailand on October 18-21 by three educators from Philippine Association of Media Education (PAME) headed by Signis Philip-
for the worldwide convention of Signis, also known as the World Catholic Association for Com- pines’ president Delia Hernandez.
munication. Aside from the 100 Chiang Mai students who joined the children’s workshops, some 2,000 children
Reflecting on the theme “Media for a Culture of Peace-Children’s rights, tomorrow’s promise”, the from 40 countries around the world also participated in the convention by sending handkerchiefs with
Signis World Congress, held in Asia for the first time, had participants of 568 media professionals their hands imprinted on them.
coming from 69 countries. The handkerchiefs, which Loorthusamy said, tell a story on the children and their rights, were sewn
The world congress opened on October 18 with a solemn Eucharistic celebration presided by the together as streamers and hung at the convention halls during the congress.
Apostolic Nuncio to Thailand, Archbishop Salvatore Pennacchio at the Hotel Empress Convention “This priority concern for children is also aimed at enabling media professionals from across the
Centre in the historic city of Chiang Mai. world to examine, explore and plan activities taking into account the perspectives of children, children’s
The opening of Signis Congress incidentally coincided with the universal church’s celebration of rights and the media,” said Loorthusamy.
World Mission Sunday. “In the end, we need them more than they need us. We need their imagination and involvement to
Highlighting the importance of the event, the nuncio in his homily told participants that opening the help us seek peace in the world,” he added.
congress on the day of World mission Sunday “is a fitting way of living your commitment of proclaim- Among the participants were 70 priests and 150 religious sisters involved in the ministry of com-
ing the good news.” munication coming from the continents of Europe, Africa, America, Asia and Oceania.
In a video message, Cardinal Claudio Celli, President of the Pontifical Commission on Social Com- Sixteen of the Congress’ participants came from the Philippines. (CBCPNews)

Ateneo student joins video

journalists at world convention
Markings
AWARDED. Sr. Bernardita D.
A YOUNG student from a Catho- and experiences related to the Dianzon, FSP, and Sr. Clothilde
lic university in the Philippines event. de las Llagas, FSP with Cardinal
joined a group of video journal- They videotaped all the activi- Sin Book Award during the 31st
Catholic Mass Media Awards held
ists that did coverage of the daily ties during the day, did editing October 14, 2009 at the San Carlos
activities of the international con- in the evenings and showed the Seminary Auditorium, Makati City.
gress of Signis World in Chiang production before the start of the Dianzon was cited as Emerging
Mai, Thailand. day’s plenary. Author and her book Glimpses of
Paul and His Message as Best
Maria Carmina Jingco, a legal The group presented a video Book in Spirituality. De las Llagas’
management student from Ate- production showcasing the con- book on media literacy titled A-Z to
neo de Manila University was one gress’ commitment to promote Looking at the Media was named Best Book for Youth and Children. The
in the group of neophyte video a culture of peace and the rights Cardinal Sin Catholic Book Awards is conferred by the Asian Catholic Com-
municators, Inc. an organization of Catholic book publishers established
journalists invited and trained by of children through the media to by the late Jaime L. Cardinal Sin to deserving book authors and publish-
Signis World to cover the five-day the assembly at the conclusion of ers whose work promotes total human development, Gospel values, and
world event. the congress on Oct. 21. Filipino Culture through the effective use of the latest communications
Jingco said the experience of While honoring the young technology in book publishing. His Excellency Most Reverend Edward
© Fr. Noel Osial, SDB

Joseph Adams, Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines was the guest of

working with people of various journalists for their commitment honor and speaker. He spoke on this year’s CMMA theme “Promoting a
cultures had been an enriching and dedication to their work dur- Culture of Respect, Dialogue and Friendship in the Digital Generation,”
event for her. ing the congress, the organizing based on the message of Pope Benedict XVI for World Communications
As the director of the team she committee took note of the excel- Day on May 24.
said she tried not to impose her lent program of the association INSTALLED. Fr. Joel Victorino as parish priest of Transfiguration of Christ
thoughts and ideas as her team Organizers of Signis World Congress gave citations to young veejays at the closing
ceremony of the congress on Oct. 21.
to involve young people in the Parish at Barangay San Roque, Antipolo City; October 18, 2009. Most
members “have great ideas too.” world event. Rev. Francisco de Leon, Auxiliary Bishop of Antipolo presided the instal-
At least 10 young people 18 to 22 years old from six Asian countries Jingco said producing videos is just a hobby for her. But her expe- lation rites which were concelebrated by diocesan and religious priests
representing Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Philippines rience in the congress showed that pursuing her hobby could make of Antipolo diocese.
and India comprised the group of neophyte video journalists trained a difference in the life of other people. ELECTED. Delia Hernandez, president of Philippine Association of Media
by Signis to cover the congress “It’s an opportunity for me to make a change in the world,” she Education (PAME) and Signis Philippines, as secretary of Signis Asia in
“It’s a good avenue to get the word out to other people,” said said. “In our school in Ateneo, with all the lots of things happening, an election held during regional meeting of delegates to Signis World
Jingco of the world gathering. we are often asked to do something…” she added. convention at Chiang Mai, Thailand, Oct. 22, 2009. At least 16 members
of Signis Asia representing countries of Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Cam-
“At least everyone will be informed through this. It’s a world Reflecting on the congress’ theme, she admitted a feeling of sad- bodia, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Macau, Vietnam,
congress, so people are representing their respective countries. At ness with the situation of poor children in the Philippines, saying Bangladesh, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Myanmar, Japan and Korea were
least when they go back to their countries and they are involved in that “there should be something out there for them.” present during the election. First time to be elected as an officer of Signis
the media, they can find ways to express the theme,” she added. “In the Philippines, there are a lot of children in the streets. We Asia, Hernandez will serve a term of 4 years until 2013. Hernandez has
been serving as a transition president of Signis Philippines. She took over
The global assembly of World Catholic Association for Commu- need to protect them. We should have programs that would answer the post from Fr. James Reuter, SJ who resigned because of advanced
nication, known as Signis World, had tackled the theme “Media for the needs of these children. It’s really sad that they can’t enjoy their age and ailing health. There are about 15 institutional members of Signis
a Culture of peace: Children’s rights, tomorrow’s promise.” childhood, that they can’t have a good education. When they grow Philippines. PAME which conducts leadership training and media literacy
As video journalists, the group covered the daily activities of the up, it’s like they don’t have a purpose in this world. We have to give is one of them.
congress and did interviews of participants regarding their insights them some sort of hope,” she said. (CBCPNews) CELEBRATED. Sr. Nora Otacan, 25th anniversary of religious profession,

Prelate endorses Pro-life’s youth congress

October 26, 2009. His Excellency, Most Rev. Leopoldo Jaucian, SVD,
led the concelebrated thanksgiving Mass at the Immaculate Conception
Cathedral, Lantana St., Quezon City. A member of the Sisters of St. Ann,
Otacan serves as the Executive Secretary of the Episcopal Commission on
Mutual Relations Between Bishops and Religious of the Catholic Bishops’
Conference of the Philippines.
THE chairman of the Episcopal Commis- hearts of the young people towards imbibing ful and sacred. All of us are thus called to
sion on Youth (ECY) of the Catholic Bish- and promoting a pro-life lifestyle through a cherish and stand up for life.” CELEBRATED. Signis World, the World
ops’ Conference of the Philippines, Bishop series of talks and testimonies, workshop- “Let this be a day where we accompany Catholic Association for Communica-
Joel Baylon said the Pro-Life’s youth sharing, and a concert of live performances,” our youth towards re-discovering the tion; culmination of the year-long com-
memoration of its 80th anniversary of
congress held at the Parks and Wildlife the incoming Legazpi bishop said. value of life, and thus choose to be persons existence, at the closing ceremony of
Amphitheatre in Quezon City last Oct. 24 The prelate added that through this noble of life. Let me then strongly encourage Signis World Congress in Chiang Mai,
will help the Church to promote a “pro-life undertaking, “we hope that more people, you to come to this gathering along with Thailand, October 21, 2009. Signis
way of life” among the young laity. especially among the young, become deeply your fellow young people,” he added. World was born from a merger of Unda
(International Catholic Association for
“This congress would open the eyes and aware and convinced that life is truly beauti- (Kris Bayos) Radio and Television) and OCIC (International Catholic Organization for
Cinema and Audiovisual) which both began in 1928. The global conven-

Jaro archdiocese warns public Asian Church leaders in Davao for assembly
tion was attended by close to 600 Catholic communicators all over the
world. Sixteen participants came from the Philippines. The world congress
reflected on the theme “Media for a Culture of Peace: Children’s rights,
tomorrow’s promise.” It involved 100 children from Chiang Mai Catholic

of fake priests, seminarians

ASIAN Church leaders numbering almost 300 from 17 countries schools who participated in various workshops held especially for them.
including a few from Europe have gathered for the 5th Assembly of Some 2,000 children from 40 countries around the world also participated
Asian Church leaders with the Archdiocese of Davao as the host. in the convention by sending handkerchiefs with their hands imprinted on
them. The handkerchiefs were sewn together as streamers and hung at
THE Commission on Social Communications of the Archdiocese of Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines Archbishop Edward Joseph the convention halls during the congress.
Jaro has issued a statement warning the public of fake priests and Adams presided the opening mass on Oct. 20 at the San Pedro
seminarians requesting funds for religious purposes. Cathedral. DIED. Fr. Carlos Van Ooteghem, CICM,
The assembly was considered a big event in Asia since it gathered 84, at Quezon City, Philippines; October
“The Commission on Social Communications of the Archdiocese 19, 2009. Born in Belgium, Fr. Ooteghem
of Jaro (warns the public) of fake priests and seminarians performing leaders who are engaged in promoting a special methodology of has worked as a missionary in the Philip-
Roman Catholic rituals and obtaining fund,” the statement said. building basic communities, it was learned. pines since the 1950’s. He served as As-
According to the statement, the commission of the archdiocese The method is known as ASiPA or Asian Integral Pastoral Ap- sistant Parish Priest and eventually Parish
proach, a program of the Office of Laity (OL) of the Federation of Priest in Pasig, Rizal from 1950-1972. He
advised the public to take caution of a man carrying “an image of was a member of the CICM Provincial
the Our Lady of Perpetual Help” that he alleges to have come from Asian Bishops Conferences (FABC). Council, later became Vice-Provincial and
Barcelona, Spain. Held at St. Francis Xavier Regional Major Seminary and College eventually Provincial Superior of CICM-
The archdiocese suggests that when one is not sure about the identity Seminary in Catalunan Grande, Davao City, the assembly’s main Philippines from 1967-1979. Fr. Ooteghem
focus was for the participants to share community building projects also served as Parish Priest and Assistant
of a man posing as a priest, a “celebret” must be demanded of him Parish Priest in Paco, Metro Manila from
A “celebret” is a letter or an instrument (in some diocese it looks and experiences in the context of the Eucharist and the Word of 1980-1994. He also served as chaplain of
like an ID with the bishop’s signed letter at the back) which a bishop God. the Young Christian Workers of the Arch-
gives to a priest that he may obtain permission in another diocese The participants, thirty of them bishops, had the opportunity to diocese of Manila. Upon his retirement in
to say mass. visit basic communities or Gagmayng Kristohanong Katilingban 1994 until the time of his death, he stayed
(GKK) in Davao and in Tagum City. at the CICM Home Sweet Home Residence in Quezon City.
It also serves as a proof that the priest is free from canonical
censures. The growth of GKK started in Tagum Diocese some 40 years DIED. Sr. Ma. Josefina J. Rafanan, RVM, October 24, 2009. Brother John
The commission also declared that the clergy in the Jaro archdio- ago through the efforts of the Maryknoll missionaries. (Mark S. Punto, SSP, October 25, 2009.
cese “do not go around offices to solicit funds.” (Kate Laceda) Ventura)
 Pastoral Concerns
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 13 No. 22
October 26 - November 8, 2009
B1
Vatican note on establishing personal ordinariates for Anglicans
Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, October 20, 2009
WITH the preparation of an Apostolic spiritual and liturgical patrimony. Under provides for the ordination as Catholic Apostolic Constitution seeks to balance proposal the Church wants to respond
Constitution, the Catholic Church is the terms of the Apostolic Constitution, priests of married former Anglican on the one hand the concern to preserve to the legitimate aspirations of these
responding to the many requests that pastoral oversight and guidance will be clergy. Historical and ecumenical the worthy Anglican liturgical and Anglican groups for full and visible unity
have been submitted to the Holy See from provided for groups of former Anglicans reasons preclude the ordination of spiritual patrimony and, on the other with the Bishop of Rome, successor of
groups of Anglican clergy and faithful in through a Personal Ordinariate, whose married men as bishops in both the hand, the concern that these groups and St. Peter.”
different parts of the world who wish to Ordinary will usually be appointed from Catholic and Orthodox Churches. The their clergy will be integrated into the These Personal Ordinariates will be
enter into full visible communion. among former Anglican clergy. Constitution therefore stipulates that Catholic Church. formed, as needed, in consultation with
In this Apostolic Constitution the The forthcoming Apostolic the Ordinary can be either a priest or Cardinal William Levada, Prefect of local Conferences of Bishops, and their
Holy Father has introduced a canonical Constitution provides a reasonable and an unmarried bishop. The seminarians the Congregation for the Doctrine of the structure will be similar in some ways to
structure that provides for such corporate even necessary response to a world- in the Ordinariate are to be prepared Faith which has prepared this provision, that of the Military Ordinariates which
reunion by establishing Personal wide phenomenon, by offering a single alongside other Catholic seminarians, said: “We have been trying to meet the have been established in most countries
Ordinariates, which will allow former canonical model for the universal though the Ordinariate may establish requests for full communion that have to provide pastoral care for the members
Anglicans to enter full communion with Church which is adaptable to various a house of formation to address the come to us from Anglicans in different of the armed forces and their dependents
the Catholic Church while preserving local situations and equitable to former particular needs of formation in the parts of the world in recent years in a throughout the world. “Those Anglicans
elements of the distinctive Anglican Anglicans in its universal application. It Anglican patrimony. In this way, the uniform and equitable way. With this Vatican / B7

Stewardship
as caring for
one’s vote:
A task of
citizenship

© Noli Yamsuan /RCAM

love for fellow humans as one good in his community? It is true registers one’s true choice; more inspire people by their example
IN our previous reflection on stewardship loves oneself comes in only as that there are many anomalies and important than the tally and of a simple and humble life. It is
we mentioned stewardship as the prudent the second commandment. In the more wrong things around the registration of the collected votes remembered that a society that
management rather than the absolute use of words of Jesus, “whatever you do society one lives in. But let no one is one’s stewarding or guardedly wishes to remain at the service
to the least of the brethren you underestimate the influence and registering a well thought of and of every citizen at every social,
objects and things. The prudent use and reverent do to me.” the hopes of the great number that much prayed for vote. Election economic and cultural level of
care of both God-provided and human-earned loves his or her country. And they is a treasured privilege for the society must have the common
resources are the responsibilities of stewardship. Patriotism as a Virtue of Love of show this when they unite with citizen to become part of good good as its primary goal. (CSDC
Country and Respect for Every the vision in their flag, sing their and honest governance. It is the 165). With very good reasons do
To abuse or to overuse these resources can only Filipino anthems or chant their hymns citizen’s task to give the country people in a nation seek leaders
harvest tragic consequences for the irresponsible Love for country is ultimately or kundiman. Filipinos love the an honest, moral and humble who will serve them and work for
and improvident user. love for fellow humans. Every Philippines. leadership. the common good of every one,
human person is born in a St. Thomas of Aquinas said In the Parable of the Steward and not just for the exclusive good
The backlash of the twin or sold in order to elect an community where s/he grows that love for one’s fatherland is and the Master who went away of some privileged few. People
typhoons (Ondoy and Pepeng) immoral and corrupt leader and and develops some of the a special form of charity called for a long journey, the Lord assemble and agree to live and
with the unmanaged flow of officials have been responsible values, imbibes the traditions, piety. Through piety every person asked, “Who, then, is the wise work in close collaboration with
water called flashfloods three for the destruction of Philippine the friendship and loyalty that has the obligation to love God in and trustworthy steward whom others in order to achieve together
weeks ago, more than prove to all, economy and much of our influence him/her. We are part the highest level and to love one’s the Master will place over his as a group what they could not
both massive planning urban and cultural values. of that goodness that is in our parents and one’s fatherland in household to allot food at the attain single or separately.
development and stewardship as It is right, p r o p e r Election is putting together the
the prudent use and management therefore, t i m e ? ” minds and desires of people to
of all resources, including the to consider (Luke 12:42). express with a single vote what
disposal of waste and garbage stewardship Obviously, they envision as good and humble
that accompany residential and for one’s vote it must be leaders to guide, serve and inspire
industrial operations. as a serious the faithful them. The wonder of an election
The prudent management obligation of steward and is its ability to express one desire,
or use of whatever we deal every Pilipino, the servants, one vision that millions can join
with is evidenced by the tragic just as it is for the in and support. In an honest
consequences even in human a serious Lord Jesus election, people believe that the
abuse of the available resources obligation of concluded exemplary lives of leaders can
in nature. The misuse of one’s them to care the teaching answer to the noble desire of
right in the management of a for nature’s story by many and can make even more
thing, or even in the choice of resources. saying, millions enjoy what rightly
people who will manage the To care for “Much will belongs to them under the dream
resources of a country is subject the country’s be required of a common good for all.
© Dennis Dayao/CBCP Media

also to individual exercise of n a t u r a l of the person Like it or not, the voters own
stewardship. resources entrusted their future, no matter how their
t h r o u g h with much, elected leaders perform or fail,
Stewardship as Caring for One’s stewardship and still once their votes are cast. As we
Vote: A Task of Citizenship is not much more will be face the coming May elections,
Each and every citizen should different from demanded let us learn from the mistakes,
steward his/her vote because the sacred duty of the person the selfish calculations and our
it is its participation as citizens to provide the entrusted limited vision of easy satisfaction
in making political choices, country with with more” of the past.
guaranteeing the possibility of leaders who are morally upright country. Love for country is not the second level together with its (Luke 12:48).
electing and holding accountable and honest individuals. necessarily devotion to its leaders. citizens and friends of the nation. The Steward and Two Perennial
those who govern them. (CA, It must be said that every Love for country or Patriotism (S. Thomas, Summa Theol. 2a2ae, Stewarding One’s Vote Issues
46. CSDC, 406). We now see that person as citizen of his country is love of one’s community Q 100.A1). It is easier to develop Can stewardship (mabuting The moment the Filipino
stewarding one’s individual vote accepts a task to care for the where we discover that we have love for one’s country and become pamamahala) be exercised people can approach Election
that could be misused, sold and good of the nation and the rest imbued much of the values in patriotic when each and everyone regarding a single vote of the Day with a steward’s mind
compromised is just as important of his countrymen. Thus every our culture as Pilipino, like Fear accept their accountability to its Filipino citizen? Election is the and heart, weighing not the
and necessary as stewarding Filipino citizen accepts the duty and Love of God, religiosity, community or country. only chance for the Filipino to popularity but the moral qualities
the resources of nature and to care for the good of country. hospitality, industry, helpfulness What then is the person’s have a direct hand in the selection of the candidates and deciding
the integrity of creation. The Love for country is diametrically (bayanihan/pahina), compassion, devotion to the country? of persons, who as servant- ultimately for their well thought
imprudent use of the natural against love for God. In fact, if celebration (fiestas), respect, Stewardship over one’s vote, leaders will be entrusted with of, better prayed for choice
resources brought death to many one truly loves God, s/he must reverence for elders, cheerfulness, one’s singular choice in any the country’s governance and of candidates, the voters can
residential areas of cities and also love their fellow humans songs, loyalty, etc. election is part of that devotion. the management of the national claim with hope, “Atin ang
barangays (as seen recently), because love for God is the first Why should a person be The important thing is not only resources (both God-given and kinabukasan.”
just as the vote that is misused and greatest commandment; but pessimistic when there is much to make sure that automation man-earned) who can lead and Stewardship / B7
B2 Updates CBCP Monitor
October 26 - November 8, 2009
Vol. 13 No. 22

Towards personal ordinariates for

former Anglicans: The question of
a married clergy (Part I)
By Fr. Jaime B. Achacoso, the household. reasserted the age-old tradition The Possible Ordination of
J.C.D. The Council of Trent reasserted in its canon 277, §1: Clerics are Married Former Anglican

Venerating
the absolute impossibility of obliged to observe perfect and Clergy
contracting marriage for clerics perpetual continence for the sake The Vatican announcement
LAST 20 October 2009, the bound by sacred orders or of the Kingdom of Heaven and states that the forthcoming
Congregation for the Doctrine of for male religious who had therefore are obliged to observe Apostolic Constitution provides

relics at Mass
the Faith—the former dicastery solemnly professed chastity and celibacy, which is a special for the ordination as Catholic
of Pope Benedict XVI—surprised declared the nullity of marriage gift of God, by which sacred priests of married former
the world with an announcement so contracted. ministers can adhere more easily Anglican clergy. What is the
of a forthcoming Apostolic to Christ with an undivided heart reach of such a provision, as far
Constitution that would pave Priestly Celibacy was confirmed and can more freely dedicate as the age-old Catholic discipline
(Father Edward McNamara, professor of liturgy at the Regina the way for the establishment by Vatican II, the Code of Canon themselves to the service of God regarding priestly celibacy is
Apostolorum university, answers the following query:) of personal ordinariates for Law and the Recent Popes and humankind. concerned?
groups of Anglican clergy and In our era, Vatican Council For his part, John Paul II— Even before the publication of
Q: In our community when we celebrate a saint’s feast faithful in different parts of the II—in the Decree on the in the Apostolic Exhortation the Constitution, we can already
day, and we have a relic of the saint present at the Mass, world, who have expressed their Ministry and Life of Priests, Pastores Dabo Vobis (25.III. forestall useless speculations in
we offer the faithful an opportunity to venerate the relic wish to enter into full visible Presbyterorum Ordinis, 1992), n.44—presented celibacy the wrong direction with the
at the end of the Mass. There seems to be a disagreement communion with the Catholic n.16—reaffirmed the close as a radical Gospel requirement following observations:
regarding the rubrics for how this should be done. I was Church. The announcement went connection between celibacy that especially favors the style a. This is a concession to
always told that the proper veneration for the relic of a saint on to say that “the forthcoming and the Kingdom of God, of spousal life and springs from allow the ordination of married
is a genuflection on one knee if it is the actual feast day Apostolic Constitution provides seeing in the former a sign that the priest’s configuration to Jesus men. In fact, this is not the
of the saint; otherwise it is a profound bow. Someone told a reasonable and even necessary radiantly proclaims the latter, Christ through the sacrament of first time that such is allowed,
me that the genuflection on one knee is only for the relic response to a world-wide the beginning of a new life to orders. even in the Catholic Church
of the True Cross. Could you please clarify this matter as phenomenon, by offering a whose service the minister of The Catechism of the Catholic of Latin tradition. We have
I am unable to find the answer anywhere? Also, is it true single canonical model for the Church is consecrated. Church of 1992 reaffirms the to remember that the Code of
that the faithful may receive a plenary indulgence if they the universal Church Canon Law allows the
receive the blessing of a newly ordained priest and that this which is adaptable to ordination of married
may be obtained anytime during that priest’s first year of various local situations men as permanent
ordination?—E.M., Bloomington, Indiana and equitable to deacons—wherever
former Anglicans in its the permanent
A: According to the rules for genuflection contained in the universal application. diaconate has been
Ceremonial of Bishops, No. 69, and the General Instruction It provides for the established by the Holy
of the Roman Missal, No. 274, the genuflection, as the most ordination as Catholic See with prior petition
solemn sign of liturgical reverence, is “made by bending the priests of married of the Episcopal
right knee to the ground, signifies adoration, and therefore former Anglican Conference—
it is reserved for the Most Blessed Sacrament, as well as clergy.” provided he has
for the Holy Cross from the solemn adoration during the Suffice it to say that completed at least 35
liturgical celebration on Good Friday until the beginning at the mention of the years of age and has
of the Easter Vigil. ordination as Catholic the consent of his wife
“During Mass, three genuflections are made by the priest priests of married (c.1031, §2). That this
celebrant: namely, after the showing of the host, after the former Anglican is a concession is clear
showing of the chalice, and before Communion. clergy, the old question from the very tenor
“Certain specific features to be observed in a concelebrated of priestly celibacy of the canons, and by
Mass are noted in their proper place (cf. above, nos. 210- has again come into the fact that historical
251). public scrutiny. In fact, and ecumenical
“If, however, the tabernacle with the Most Blessed some commentators reasons preclude the
Sacrament is present in the sanctuary, the priest, the deacon, have immediately ordination of married
and the other ministers genuflect when they approach the interpreted this move as men as bishops—
altar and when they depart from it, but not during the the beginning of what the fullness of the
celebration of Mass itself. could be a relaxation of priesthood—in both
“Otherwise all who pass before the Most Blessed Sacrament the Catholic Church’s the Catholic and
genuflect, unless they are moving in procession. unflinching tradition Orthodox Churches.
“Ministers carrying the processional cross or candles bow requiring celibacy for b. However, this
their heads instead of genuflecting.” its clergy. does not imply
Although no longer mentioned in current legislation, the Hence, reserving for the permission for
custom of making a genuflection before a publicly exposed the succeeding issues of ordained clerics to
relic of the True Cross or another relic of the Passion CBCP Monitor the other marry. The canonical
remains in force. Indeed, the abovementioned practice of important aspects of impediment for
genuflecting to the cross on Good Friday and Holy Saturday this new ecclesiastical marriage arises from
most likely began in Jerusalem with the veneration of the circumscription (i.e., the reception of
True Cross. personal ordinariates), Holy Orders. This is
In the extraordinary form of the Roman rite there is a let us first take care of clearly stated in c.1087:
wider use of the genuflection. For example, during liturgical the red herring that has Persons who are in
functions the altar cross receives the same genuflections been once more foisted holy orders invalidly
as those accorded to the reserved Blessed Sacrament. in front of the unwary attempt marriage.
The pope and others such as cardinals, bishops and some reader: the possibility Thus, a person who
other ecclesiastical dignitaries were also reverenced with of Catholic priests is ordained—whether
a simple genuflection albeit only within the confines of getting married. he is unmarried or
their jurisdictions. married—is thereby
There are also some genuflections made on pronouncing The Rule on Priestly canonically impeded
certain words, such as when remembering the Incarnation Celibacy dates to from contracting any
during the Nicene Creed on Christmas Day and on the feast Apostolic Times future marriage.
of the Annunciation. The extraordinary form has many The reason for In the case of a
more such incidences than these two days. the repeated re- married former
Outside of the liturgy, popular piety has several occasions examination of the Anglican cleric, his
for making genuflections. For example, many Catholics ecclesiastical rule on possible ordination as
have the custom of making a genuflection during the Way priestly celibacy stems a Catholic priest would
of the Cross at the words “We adore you, O Christ, and in great part from not nullify his existing
we bless you, for through your Holy Cross you have saved a wrong notion that marriage or bind him
the world.” it is a human law to renounce his wife.
Regarding the mode of venerating relics, there are few of relatively recent It would, nevertheless,
recent norms except the prohibition of placing them upon origin. I distinctly impede him from
the table of the altar for public veneration (Ceremonial of remember having to getting married again
Bishops 866, 921). The classical 1962 ceremonies manual firmly correct a well- in the future, should
in Italian by Ludovico Trimeloni, recently reissued, states known cleric who his present wife pass
that it is good, but not obligatory, to make a bow of the affirmed—during a away.
© Pinky Barrientos, FSP/CBCP Media

head toward relics of saints that are solemnly exposed for TV discussion some Likewise, an
veneration. He also states that all relics, including those of years ago—that the unmarried former
the Cross, should not receive the kind of veneration usually canon law on priestly Anglican cleric, should
reserved only to exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, celibacy did not come he be ordained as a
such as removing any head covering and incensing from into existence until the Catholic priest, would
a kneeling position. 11th Century. be impeded from
According to present practice, if a relic is present in the In fact, the Church’s getting married in the
presbytery during Mass, it may only be incensed at the solemn Magisterium future. This is further
beginning of Mass after incensing the altar. In general, has been constant in stipulated by c.1037
however, the veneration of saintly relics should be kept enforcing ecclesiastical which states—An
separate from the Mass. For example, it is possible to have celibacy from the start. unmarried candidate
a relic present in the presbytery during Mass, but it would The Synod of Elvira (ca.300-303) Pope Paul VI, in his encyclical same doctrine: All the ordained for the permanent diaconate and
not be correct to conclude the Mass by blessing the people prescribed in canon 27: A bishop, Sacerdotalis Caelibatus of ministers of the Latin Church, a candidate for the presbyterate is
with the relic. After Mass, however, the celebrant could like any other cleric, should 24.VI.1967, debunked the with the exception of permanent not to be allowed to the order of
return from the sacristy after removing his chasuble and have with him either only one objections raised against the deacons, are normally chosen diaconate unless in a prescribed
direct some devotional prayers toward the saint, bless the sister or consecrated virgin; it is discipline of celibacy. By placing from among men of faith who rite he has assumed publicly
faithful with the relic, and offer the possibility of them established that in no way should emphasis on its Christological live a celibate life and who before God and the Church the
coming forward to kiss it. he have an extraneous woman; in foundation and appealing to intend to remain celibate ‘for the obligation of celibacy.
Trimeloni states that nothing is said when blessing with canon 33 the Synod declared: The history and to what we learn sake of the Kingdom of Heaven In summary, we are dealing
a relic of the Passion. When blessing with a relic of a saint following overall prohibition for from the first-century documents (n.1579). with a dispensation from the
the celebrant may use an appropriate formula such as: bishops, presbyters and deacons about the origins of celibacy and Finally, Pope Benedict XVI, requirement of celibacy towards
“Through the intercession of St. N. may Almighty God and for all clerics who exercise a continence, he fully confirmed in his Apostolic Exhortation ordination as Catholic priests of
bless ….” Likewise, when offering the relic to be kissed, the ministry has been decided: they its value. Sacramentum Caritatis (22. those already-married Anglican
celebrant may also use a suitable formula although it is by must abstain from relations with The 1971 Synod of Bishops, II.2007) categorically states: clerics who wish to continue
no means obligatory. For example: “Through his Passion their wives and must not beget both in the pre-synodal program “I reaffirm the beauty and the their ministry in the personal
and Cross (or through the intercession of St. N.) may God children; those who do are to Ministerium Presbyterorum importance of a priestly life lived ordinariates which may be
free you from all evil. Amen.” be removed from the clerical (15.II.1971) and in the final in celibacy as a sign expressing established to accommodate
Trimeloni notes that all should kneel during the blessing state. document Ultimis Temporibus total and exclusive devotion to former Anglicans who wish to
with a relic, even for that of a saint. Perhaps this custom is The First Lateran Ecumenical (30.XI.1971), affirmed the need Christ, to the Church and to the come into full communion with
what led our reader to believe that a genuflection was in Council of 1123, states in its to preserve celibacy in the Latin Kingdom of God, and therefore the Catholic Church. We are
order in venerating the saint’s relic on his feast day. canon 3: We absolutely forbid Church, shedding light on its confirm that it remains obligatory not dealing with a dispensation
Finally, regarding the incorrect belief that a plenary priests, deacons or subdeacons to foundations, the convergence of in the Latin tradition. Priestly from those who are ordained
indulgence is attached to a new priest’s blessing, we cohabit with concubines or wives motives and the conditions that celibacy lived with maturity, joy as Catholic priests—whether
addressed this issue in our column of May 8, 2007. and to cohabit with women other encouraged it. and dedication is an immense unmarried or married—to
than those whom the Council of The new Code of Canon Law blessing for the Church and for subsequently marry after
Nicea (325) permitted to live in of the Latin Church of 1983 society itself (n.24). ordination.
 Diocese
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 13 No. 22
October 26 - November 8, 2009
B3
San Roque Cathedral

By Fr. Adrian M. Magnait spiritual, catechetical and physical, the presence of the Apostolic Nuncio principal focus of the new diocese is to the Diocesan Clergy should work hand
for the celebration of the Rite of to the Philippines, Archbishop Antonio establish pastoral programs, institutes, in hand with the Religious and Lay
Liturgical Reception and Canonical Franco, and of other Bishops, both in the organizations and activities, which will leaders.
A Historical Perspective Possession of the Diocese of Kalookan; Roman Catholic Church and Protestant cater to the needs and spiritual yearnings
At the beginning of the Third Christian g) Schema for the proposed Diocesan Churches, Clergy, Religious, and of her people. To accomplish this will Church of the Poor
Millennium, Pope John Paul II challenged ministries and organizational structure; Christ’s Lay Faithful. require a more active participation from The problem of poverty is prevalent
the Church with the words of the Lord h) Schema for the proposed diocesan the ranks of the lay people. as evinced by the proliferation of urban
Jesus in the Gospel of St. Luke saying: pastoral program, vision and mission, Territorial Area of the Diocese The creation of a new diocese calls for poor communities in the diocese. Hence,
appointments of clergy, administrative The Diocese of Kalookan is composed the participation and support of the Christi this requires that the Church should
Duc in altum! These words ring out for and financial plans; and i) Composition of Caloocan City—South, Malabon fidelis laici. The Laity of Kalookan diocese work harder to respond to the needs
us today, and they invite us to remember of the diocesan heraldry. City and Navotas City. It is bounded responds to this call for service through of the poor and sincerely address the
the past with gratitude, to live the present Thus, the clergy envisioned the new in the North by Valenzuela City; in the their devotion and love for the Church as challenge of becoming truly a Church of
with enthusiasm and to look forward to the diocese as empowered by the love of Jesus East by Quezon City; in the South by they actively participate in her ministry of the Poor, especially by implementing the

Diocese of Kalookan
future with confidence: “Jesus Christ is the formation of Basic Ecclesial Communities
same yesterday and today and for ever” (BECs). Moreover, the continuation and
(Heb 13:8). John Paul II, Novo Millennio
Ineunte #1
IMPORTANT FACTS intensification of the delivery of social
services and human developmental
IMPORTANT FACTS: programs to the poor by the Social
The late Jaime Cardinal L. Sin, DD, Services and Development Ministry
then Archbishop of Manila, responded Bishop ……………………………………………. 1 (SSDM) should be a priority concern in
to this challenge of the Holy Father Priests: budget allocation.
by embarking on a monumental re- Diocesan ………………………………………… 22
Religious ………………………………………… 14
organization of the archdiocese—the New Structures
Guest Priests …………………………………… 18
creation of five new dioceses! Male Religious Institutes ……………………..…. 5 The spiritual good and welfare of the
Female Religious Institutes ………………….…. 13 People of God requires the installation
The District Preparations Educational Institutions: of the necessary structures, formation
On January 14, 2003, with the Colleges and Universities ……………....…….. 16 programs and systems to facilitate
appointment of Most Rev. Teodoro Secondary Schools …………………....………. 53 implementation of the diocesan pastoral
C. Bacani, Jr., then District Bishop of Elementary Schools ………………....………… 110 plan, taking into serious consideration
KalMaNa, as the First Bishop of the newly Pre-Schools ……………………….....…………. 110 the admonitions of the Holy Father
created Diocese of Novaliches, Cardinal Social and Charitable in Novo Millennio Ineunte to work
Sin appointed Rev. Msgr. Boanerges A. Institutions …………………………..…………. 39
seriously for the pastoral revitalization
Lechuga as District Head and instructed of the Church.
him to “kindly work as a team and These new structures would require
prepare the faithful for the creation among others the implementation of the
of the new diocese.” Thus, entrusted Manila; and in the salus animarum. They become, in a very appropriate provisions of PCP II and
with such important mission, Msgr. West by Manila special way, partners with the Bishop, his PCM II. Thus, it is highly recommended
Lechuga embarked on the enormous Bay. The diocese Clergy and the Religious, in the work of that parishes in the Diocese consider the
task of preparing the establishment of has 26 parishes, evangelization and proclamation of the establishment of the various ministries
the Diocese of Kalookan. divided into five Good News of salvation. mentioned by the Councils.
Msgr. Lechuga rallied the clergy of Vicariates. As regards the methodology, the
the district, the diocesan, religious and A Young Church Diocese may also consider applying
guest priests, to unite together towards Why a new The Diocese of Kalookan has several the more contemporary approaches
a common vision and goal—becoming Diocese? poor parishes, a number of which are of Collaborative Parish Ministry and
a local church. Salus animarum relatively young. Out of the total 26 Stewardship Ministry with the following
On February 27, 2003, Archbishop – The salvation of parishes, 12 were created just within key characteristics of: Dialogue,
Antonio Franco, the Apostolic Nuncio souls is the first and the past two decades at the time of its Participation and Co-responsibility.
to the Philippines, met the clergy of the foremost reason for establishment as a diocese. This means
district at the San Jose Academy, Navotas, the reorganization that half of the parishes in the diocese are A Challenge and a Gift
Metro Manila, to discuss pertinent issues of the Archdiocese young and are still struggling to become The admonitions from the Apostolic
connected with the establishment of the of Manila and the truly stable. Obviously, the challenge Letter Novo Millennio Ineunte of John
Most Rev. Deogracias Iñiguez, DD
diocese. The clergy were able to express creation of the here is to continue building up the Paul II: Duc in altum! reverberates in
to the Papal Nuncio their sentiments on new Diocese of Church, to install necessary programs our hearts and minds as a CHALLENGE
the planned diocese and Archbishop and the grace of the Holy Spirit, to sail Kalookan. Cardinal Sin himself requested and structures and to fortify the various and as a GIFT. A challenge because of
Franco, in turn, encouraged the clergy forth with faith and courage accompanied Rome that new dioceses should be faith communities in the diocesan, the enormous task before us; but more
to continue with their preparatory work by Mary to cast its net so that a bountiful created out of the archdiocese in order vicariate and parish levels. Appropriate so, a gift because this task of being a new
so as to effectively prepare the district harvest maybe reaped for the Glory of to cater more effectively to the pastoral assistance must be provided to the diocese will certainly usher in a new
in becoming a local church. God and the salvation of souls. welfare and spiritual good of the People struggling young parishes. Big and springtime for the Church, spurs new
Thus, inspired by the encouragement of God. Obviously, the rapid growth of stable parishes should support the small growth in Her mission and ministry and
from the Nuncio, the clergy joyfully Announcement and Canonical population, with more than 11 million and poor parishes. re-invigorates the People of God towards
and harmoniously worked as a united Establishment Catholics under the pastoral care of one a more mature life of faith.
presbyterium to prepare for the coming On June 28, 2003, during Mass of the archbishop is simply enormous. Creating Priority of Evangelization Work Finally, we looked into the history of
of the First Bishop of Kalookan. Everyone Pope’s Day celebration presided by His new dioceses will enable the bishop to There is a need to intensify the the Diocese, not just a mere rundown
was entrusted with an appropriate Excellency Archbishop Antonio Franco, take care of his flock more efficiently and evangelization work, especially in the of events that has transpired in the
responsibility and by July 2003, through His Eminence Jaime L. Cardinal Sin, effectively—for the greater glory of God urban poor areas. Likewise, there is past five years. More importantly, the
their joint effort and pooled contributions, D.D., formally announced the creation and the salvation of souls! a need to establish more institutions historical perspective should allow us
they have accomplished the following: a) of the new Diocese of Kalookan with Furthermore, the creation of the new dedicated to the formation of the laity, to see that the Catholic Faith is not just
Renovation of the Bishop’s residence; b) Most Rev. Deogracias S. Iñiguez, Jr., DD diocese will usher a new springtime and with the Clergy and Religious an abstract idea, an ideology or concepts
Renovation of the San Roque Cathedral; as first Bishop of the diocese. for the Church as it will allow more to form an authentic Community of we believe in and profess, but a faith
c) Construction of the temporary The Rite of Liturgical Reception and participation in the Church ministry Disciples as envisioned by the Second that is lived. A living faith for which our
Chancery; d) Construction of the Canonical Possession of the Diocese from various sectors: Clergy, Religious Plenary Council of the Philippines predecessors has sacrificed their lives for
temporary pastoral center to house of Kalookan were held at the San and Laity. Their leadership potentials (PCP II, 1991). Similarly, to undertake and struggled against various challenges
the offices of the diocesan ministries Roque Cathedral, Caloocan City on will be given opportunities to develop a massive campaign for catechetical and trials to bring to us now this gift of
and apostolates; e) Construction of the August 22, 2003. Bishop Iñiguez was and be exercised for the service of instruction is of paramount importance. a Community of Christ’s Disciples – the
Galilee clergy house; f) Preparations, solemnly installed by Cardinal Sin in God’s people. Consequently, the In this primordial work of the Church, Church we love!
 Features
CBCP Monitor
B4 Vol. 13 No. 22
October 26 - November 8, 2009

By Bishop Jose C. Sorra, and responsibly fill the earth, responsibility over all the other and values-reformed political Greed, and Sloth. said, “It is good.”
DD to cultivate it and take charge creatures, God saw everything leaders, whom an equally To quote once again St. Paul: 3rd DAY: Man gazed at
over all the living irrational that He had made, and behold, mature electorate can assuredly I cannot even understand my the forests and mountains on
creatures with care and respect, it was very good. then choose from. own actions. I do not do what the earth. They were tall and
SCRIPTURE scholars tell us as being the handiwork of the The stress indicates that Otherwise, let’s just then I want to do, but do what I green. And man said, “Let
that using poetic and symbolic Creator. this natural goodness of the carry on with this reflection hate; this indicates that it is us cut trees to build things
imagery, the two distinct It’s indeed interesting to note earlier created creatures receive and see for ourselves what had not I who do it but sin which for us and export them for
accounts of creation in Genesis that every after a day’s creation their added dignity from their actually and really happened resides in me…and the desire business profit.” And men did
(1:26-28; 2:4-25) described (of inanimate and animate relationship with the created to our hapless forebears – to to do right is there but not the and became very rich. And
how in the beginning, God irrational creatures) from the human person for whose use learn from. power to do it (Rom 7:15, 17, the forests grew thin and the
created man in His divine 1st Day through the 5th, God (not abuse) they have been Death. The other consequent 18). Incidentally, the Pinoy mountains became denuded
image; male and female He the Creator always looked back created (Vatican II, Apostolicam punishment due to Original Kundiman song, Sapagkat and turned bald. And man said,
created them. Then God blest and saw that it was good. But Actuositatem, 7 ). Sin is Death, even as in the ako’y tao lamang is the favorite “It is good.”
them in marriage, enjoining after creating Man on the sixth Then and there, man and wife beginning God had forewarned lyric of the tipsy and the 4th DAY: Man saw the
them to be fertile, procreate day and entrusting to him the enjoyed an intensely intimate the first couple: From the tree of pervert. animals leaping in the fields

God wept over modern man’s

broken dreams
Prelature of Isabela
holds Pastoral Assembly
By Sr. Ruth R. Diaz, SFIC

THE Prelature of Isabela de Basilan held its 3rd Prelature of

Isabela Pastoral Assembly (PIPA III) last October 9-11, 2009 at
the Querexeta Formation Center, Isabela City, Basilan Province.
“BELIEVE…GREATER THINGS CAN BE DONE”. (John 14:12)
was the theme of the said assembly. It pursued the following
objectives: 1) Review and assess PIPA III recommendations,
structure and roles/functions in relation to the Prelature
Pastoral Plan (PIPA I) and its relevance to the present of
the Church; 2) Discern and deepen its understanding of our
identify as a Church and its mission in Basilan realities (from
PIPA II objective); 3) Articulate and implement revisions and
resolutions identified as necessary to make it responsive to
the present needs and challenges of the Prelature.

www.abc-people.com
Our assembly was blessed with the affirming presence
of Archbishop Romulo Valles, DD from the Archdiocese of
Zamboanga. He boldly emphasized the collective efforts of
every bishop to support one another especially in the case of
our prelature which is one of the Suffragans of the Metropolitan
Church of Zamboanga. We were likewise delighted with the
presence of Fr. Willy Samson, SJ, as our resource person. love and friendship with God, Knowledge of Good and Evil, Separation from each other: and big and small fishes
He further brought us into reflection of the realities and who is love, and an exceedingly you shall not eat; the moment The woman whom you put here playfully swimming in the sea,
paradoxes of life in the light of the Spirituality of the Modern happy and peaceful love-life, you eat from it, you are surely with me gave me fruit from And man said, “Let us trap the
World. In his sharing, we were challenged to go out of our for God was then the center doomed to die (Gen 2:17). And the tree, and so I ate it (Gen animals for food so we can eat
comfort zones to be able to share in the mission of Christ and of their lives. God, however, as St. Paul also wrote: Just as 3:12). In fear and shame before and drink and get merry, or
the Church… to be active participants of this said assembly exposed the couple to the through one man, sin entered God, he angrily blamed and shoot them for sport, and catch
for the betterment of the Church of Basilan, Mindanao, the test—if only to test their love the world and with sin death, accused “the woman”! Sadly, the fishes, big and small, with
Philippines and the world. and loyalty to Him. death thus came to all men gone now was the endearing nets and with dynamite for
During the assembly, delegates had the chance to listen and You certainly will not die. inasmuch as all sinned (Rom sweet nickname of Honey or big money.” And the greedy,
share their hopes, talents as well as the challenges with greater No, God knows well that the 5:12). Death, however, is to be Darling. And short-lived, too, glutton man did. Then he said,
hope and dynamism. One of the meaningful experiences of moment you eat of it your eyes understood here more than just was their mutual gift-giving of “It is good.”
the delegates was the encounter with God and one another will be opened and you will be physical dying, corruption or one’s total self and their initial 5th DAY: Man felt and
through the liturgical celebrations and rituals. We have been like gods who know what is decay, which ultimately turns blissful experience of a happy breathed the cool clean breeze
blessed indeed with God’s sustaining presence. good and what is bad, argued into dust, for man is dust and to honeymoon then that could in his nost r ils. And ma n
Moreover, we have been inspired and challenged by our the Snake (Gen 3:4-5). dust he shall man return. have lasted ever-thereafter. said, “Let us burn our wastes
beloved bishop, Most Rev. Martin S. Jumoad, DD, when he Disgracefully, Man gave in Death also means that Man Unfortunately, for Cain and or refuse, and make more
gave emphasis on the aspect of renewal. He said if there is to the temptation, willfully has been completely divorced Abel, who rather became more vehicles, sports-cars, jeepneys
renewal within, then, there can be renewal in the church. This abusing his God-given gift of or separated from his intimate of a hapless victim of their and buses.” And man did.
is what we continue to hope and struggle for as a church. Freedom by naively opting to relationship with God, which parents’ Godless parental role- And the air became polluted
But we never lose hope in the name of faith and love despite deny and not acknowledge then triggered the separation modeling. God said to Cain, and dense with smoke and
persecutions, violence even up to the point of giving up our his being but a creature of and alienation of himself Where is your brother, Abel? carbon. Then super-typhoons
life. May this assembly be a venue to renew, to empower, to God. In effect, Man proudly from oneself, from each other, He answered, I don’t know; and floods swamped towns,
develop and to sanctify, he said. declared independence from and from Nature. (Cf. Fr. J. am I my brother’s keeper? cities and villages, inundating
The assembly provided us the atmosphere of re-visiting our God, brushing God aside, and M. Dimaculangan, Who is (Gen 4:9). houses and vehicles in the
Vision-Mission and re-reading of the Prelature Pastoral Plan making himself now—“like Love?). Cain’s bloody story was but streets and devastating crops
and certain decrees. Resolutions and recommendations were gods”—the Center of his Separation from God: I heard the first irreparably damaged in the fields. And man felt
articulated for more relevant responses as we move onward life—thus, Man became SELF- your voice in the garden and I chain-link to the main that quite sad. Anyway, he said,
with much love and dedication. CENTERED, the euphemism of was afraid because I was naked, was Adam who broke faith “It is good.”
Following are the resolutions and recommendations: ORIGINAL SIN. so I hid (Gen 3:10). Servile with God—thus, soon the son 6th DAY: Man saw many
That Basic Ecclesial Communities (BEC) are to be appreciated Our Church teaches that we fear of God is the result of sin. tragically broke faith, too, with kinds of people on the earth—
not just a “mere” program but as a way of life that would were all born with said Original And sin blurs the mind from his brother whom he murdered different race, color and creed.
bring out one’s potentialities as a person and as Christians, Sin—Mary, the Mother of the seeing God, who is Truth and (Gen 4:10). Thereafter, followed And man said, “Let us create
empowering the lay as the proactive partner of religious Son of God, was the only one weakens the will from loving the tidal wave of even more GOD in our own image and
men and women, deacons, priests, and bishops in realizing spared. However, through the God and fellowman with hatred and violence that likeness. As we think, so He
an integral human development and a more mature faith in redemptive merits of Jesus authentic love. flooded the world. The chain of thinks; as we hate, so He hates;
God permeated by His love; Christ, this Sin is washed Separation from Self: Who biblical sin stories, as narrated as we kill, so He kills. Similarly,
That liturgical celebrations and sacraments must be properly away and forgiven through told you that you were naked? by the inspired biblical writers, let’s make bombs and missiles
taught to every parishioner especially the children and the baptism; but not its consequent “In the beginning”, that is, simply showed that mankind and wage jihad and war when
youth who are more prone to the lure of the secular mass punitive effect—the SELF- before their fall, they were had not learned the lesson that misunderstandings arise.”
media and modernized, materialistic world; CENTERED ORIENTATION naked and were not ashamed the cycle of sin leads eventually “Moreover, let’s solve global
That Social Action, Justice and Peace Program in the prelature of man, which is the root cause (Gen 2:24). They were at peace to the bad guys’ tragic death. poverty through contraception
be enlivened with more passion and compassion by becoming of his inordinate Self-Pride, with their own body. They did Separation from Nature: and legalized abortion and
more responsive to the signs of the times; Greed (for power /money), not experience rebellion from Because you have listened to euthanasia, and let’s promote
That Formation of every Christian especially the lay leaders Lust (for mundane pleasures, their orderly instincts, nor did your wife, and have eaten from gender-equality through same
be given due attention, the same with the formation of the particularly of the flesh for they feel awkward before God the tree of which I forbade you sex marriage. And man did.
religious and the clergy; its own sake) Dishonesty or ashamed of themselves naked to eat, cursed be the soil because Then abortion clinics and
That tithing will have to be promoted in every parish as (graft and corruption), Anger, in the presence of each other. of you! … With sweat on your missile sites checkered the
part of our collaborative social responsibility and stewardship Vengeance, Violence, Murder Rather, they mutually saw in face you will eat your bread… landscape of the earth. And
towards the church temporal sustainability; proper education (guns and goons) and you their original innocence and (Gen 3:17-19). Sin, indeed, leads man said, “It is very good.”
and common understanding be undertaken for an effective name it. nakedness their communion of us down a broad way street but 7th DAY: Man rested. And
and appropriate response of the Christian community; But, thanks and praises to persons in which, through their that ends up in the inevitable there was a horrible noise,
That after identifying these above-named pastoral concerns our Divine Lord and Savior, masculinity and femininity, destruction of ourselves and of rumbling and confusion on the
and to be guided properly by the declaration and decrees of who came down to redeem and they become a gift for each other our man-made world. face of the earth. Fire consumed
PIPA I, a Monitoring Team is hereby necessitated immediately pick us up from our Fall and, (John Paul II’s No. 13 Address Have you ever heard of God the beautiful earth, suicide-
to effectively promulgate, implement and /or revisit those by His Power, Word and Life, at the General Audience of 2 weeping? Read this story: In the bombers blasted countless
declarations and decrees; has showed us how to help January, 1980). beginning was the earth. And it innocent people to death, and
That the roles and functions of the Monitoring Team be ourselves save ourselves. After the Fall, however, they was beautiful. Man lived upon bloody jihads and wars were
properly imparted to this assembly to be able to recommend Accordingly, talk of “political had to cover their bodies—an the earth. But PRIDE prodded waged between ethnic groups
to our local ordinary qualified persons to compose this team reform” might be a waste of admission of their lost sense him to create his own new and and nations. Then there was a
before its closure; saliva, time and money and of human dignity and of modern world: deafening SILENCE.
That the Monitoring Team will have to study the pastoral will amount to naught—unless original innocence. They were On the 1st DAY: Man said, The blackened, devastated
plan of the prelature as well as the Declaration and Decrees and until Man (Everyone) no longer at ease and at home “Let us build skyscrapers and Mother Earth was now flattened
of PIPA I to be guided properly in their activities and be able goes back to his tainted and with themselves—an alienation expressway.” (A classic sample and wounded, and in agony she
to disseminate and promote them to every catholic in the weakened human roots; so, of the human spirit from its was New York’s rammed-down worshipped and pleaded for
prelature. in light of his damaged past, body. Why…? Twin Trade Center buildings of mercy with her ONE TRUE
Finally, it was resolved that the Monitoring Team will meet he could again start to reflect, Because, as earlier said, 9/11). And so man covered the GOD. And God saw all that Man
immediately to help run the pastoral work of the prelature discern, repent, make amends, Original Sin obfuscated man’s earth with steel and concrete. had done. And in the silence of
more attuned to the demands of the present realities. as he gets down to a firm intellect from knowing God, And man became very proud the smoldering ruins—
On the last phase of the assembly, the 150 participants of resolve: that, in faith and by the truth about himself and and said, “It is good.” GOD WEPT….
the 3rd Prelature of Isabela Pastoral Assembly (PIPA III) were God’s grace, he will honestly others, and also weakened his 2nd DAY: Man looked up Meanwhile, we can just
sent back to the parishes/schools by Bishop Jumoad, bringing strive to turn himself and his will to control the urge of the on the clear blue waters of perhaps wait and brace
with them the significant events of PIPA III. family around—180 degrees flesh; otherwise known as the the earth. And man said, “Let ourselves up! For Mother Nature
As a prelature, we are looking forward to another important (to begin with), then reach Concupiscence of the flesh, us dump our sewage and all when hurt—boomerangs!
historical event which will lead us to face new challenges but out to neighbors. Only then which is man’s inordinate waste-matter into the waters.” (The above narrative is the
with greater courage and enthusiasm. We are journeying perhaps will in due time emerge inclination to temptations to And so man did. The ocean and author’s paraphrase of the original
towards our 50 years of being Church on October 12, 2013. exceptionally responsible, the Seven Deadly Sins of: Pride, rivers became murky and the literary piece: “God Wept” by M.
qualified presidential wannabes Lust, Anger, Gluttony, Envy, fishes started to die. And man Link, S.J. and G. Maloney, S.J.).
 Statements
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 13 No. 22
October 26 - November 8, 2009
B5

‘Achieving food security in times of crisis’

‘This Apostolic
Constitution is one
consequence of
ecumenical dialogue’
Joint statement of Anglican and Catholic archbishops
on the establishment of personal ordinates for Anglicans
wishing to enter into full visible communion with the
Catholic Church

TODAY’S announcement of the Apostolic Constitution

is a response by Pope Benedict XVI to a number of
requests over the past few years to the Holy See from
groups of Anglicans who wish to enter into full visible
communion with the Roman Catholic Church, and are

www.catbalogan.gov.ph
willing to declare that they share a common Catholic
Message of His Holiness Benedict XVI to Mr. Jacques Diouf, Director faith and accept the Petrine ministry as willed by
Christ for his Church.
General of FAO, on the occasion of World Food Day 2009 Pope Benedict XVI has approved, within the
Apostolic Constitution, a canonical structure that
provides for Personal Ordinariates, which will allow
former Anglicans to enter full communion with
Mr. Jacques Diouf, of creation are limited: they therefore require peoples. It will therefore become a reality,
the Catholic Church while preserving elements of
If the celebration of World Food Day recalls responsible attitudes capable of encouraging the hence a security, if adequate development
distinctive Anglican spiritual patrimony.
the foundation of the FAO and its action in sought-after security, thinking likewise of that is guaranteed in all the different regions.
The announcement of this Apostolic Constitution
the fight against hunger and malnutrition of future generations. Thus profound solidarity The drama of hunger in particular can only
brings to an end a period of uncertainty for such groups
in the world, it stresses above all the urgent and farsighted brotherhood are essential. be overcome by “eliminating the structural
who have nurtured hopes of new ways of embracing
need for interventions on behalf of all who The realization of these objectives entails causes that give rise to it and promoting
unity with the Catholic Church. It will now be up
are without daily bread, in so many countries, a necessary change in lifestyle and mindsets. the agricultural development of the poorer
to those who have made requests to the Holy See to
because of inadequate food security. It obliges the international community countries. This can be done by investing
respond to the Apostolic Constitution.
The actual crisis that is hitting all sectors of and its institutions to intervene in a more in rural infrastructures, irrigation systems,
The Apostolic Constitution is further recognition
the economy without distinction is particularly appropriate and forceful way. I hope that such transport, organization of markets, and
of the substantial overlap in faith, doctrine and
harshly affecting the world of farming, whose an intervention may encourage cooperation in the development and dissemination of
spirituality between the Catholic Church and the
situation is becoming dramatic. This crisis with a view to protecting the methods of appropriate agricultural technology that
Anglican tradition. Without the dialogues of the past
demands that Governments and the different cultivating the land proper to each region can make the best use of the human, natural
forty years, this recognition would not have been
elements of the International Community and to avoiding a heedless use of natural and socio-economic resources that are more
possible, nor would hopes for full visible unity have
make decisive and effective decisions. resources. I also hope that this cooperation readily available at the local level” (Caritas
been nurtured. In this sense, this Apostolic Constitution
To guarantee people and peoples the will preserve the values proper to the in Veritate, n. 27).
is one consequence of ecumenical dialogue between
possibility of overcoming the scourge of hunger rural world and the fundamental rights of Faithful to her vocation to be close to
the Catholic Church and the Anglican Communion.
is to assure them concrete access to adequate, those who work the land. By setting aside the most deprived, the Catholic Church
The on-going official dialogue between the Catholic
healthy food. Indeed, this is a practical privileges, profit and convenience, it will promotes, sustains and participates in the
Church and the Anglican Communion provides the
expression of the right to life which, although then be possible to achieve these objectives efforts made to enable each people and each
basis for our continuing cooperation. The Anglican
it is solemnly proclaimed, all too often remains for the benefit of the men, women, children, community to have access to the necessary
Roman Catholic International Commission (ARCIC) and
far from being implemented fully. families and communities that live in the means to guarantee an appropriate level of
International Anglican Roman Catholic Commission
The theme chosen by the FAO for World poorest regions of the planet and are the food security.
for Unity and Mission (IARCCUM) agreements make
Food Day is: “Achieving food security in most vulnerable. Experience shows that In expressing these wishes, I renew to you,
clear the path we will follow together.
times of crisis”. It is an invitation to consider even advanced technical solutions lack Mr Director-General, the expression of my
With God’s grace and prayer we are determined that
agricultural work as a fundamental element efficiency if they do not put the person first high esteem and I invoke an abundance of
our ongoing mutual commitment and consultation
of food security and consequently as fully part and foremost, who comes first and who, in divine Blessings upon the FAO, upon the
on these and other matters should continue to be
of economic activity. For this reason, farming his or her spiritual and physical dimensions, Member States and upon all the personnel.
strengthened. Locally, in the spirit of IARCCUM, we
must have access to adequate investments is the alpha and the omega of all activity.
look forward to building on the pattern of shared
and resources. This topic calls into question Rather than an elementary need, access to From the Vatican, 16 October 2009
meetings between the Catholic Bishops Conference of
and makes clear that by their nature the goods food is a fundamental right of people and BENEDICTUS PP. XVI
England and Wales and the Church of England’s House
of Bishops with a focus on our common mission. Joint
days of reflection and prayer were begun in Leeds in
2006 and continued in Lambeth in 2008, and further
meetings are in preparation. This close cooperation will
continue as we grow together in unity and mission,
in witness to the Gospel in our country, and in the
Church at large.

+ Vincent Gerard Nichols (Catholic Archbishop

of Westminster)
© Mark Christian Ribaya

+ Rowan Williams (Anglican Archbishop)

London, 20 October 2009

Press Statement on
Fr. Sinnott
SOME press and other media reports today are saying
that the kidnappers of Fr. Michael Sinnott have made
© Dennis Dayao/CBCP Media

contact with his Columban Superiors. One report went

so far as to say that this contact was by way of a “phone
call, made yesterday by an emissary of the kidnappers”.
I find these reports disturbing and distressing. They
are inaccurate and I cannot understand why they
would be published without verification.
May I clarify that I personally have had no contact
with anyone claiming to be one of the kidnappers or
representing them. Nor am I aware of any member of

‘For too many children, the right to life is denied’

the Missionary Society of St. Columban having contact
with the kidnappers or their representatives.
Together with the Bishop, clergy and people of
Pagadian, all who love Fr. Mick and all those who are
Statement of Archbishop Celestino Migliore, permanent observer of the Holy See at the concerned for his welfare, we are anxiously waiting
for some news of Fr. Mick’s health and situation. At
United Nations, on the promotions and protection of the rights of children; delivered before 79, Fr Mick needs urgent medical attention.
The Bishop of Pagadian, Msgr. Cabajar is the
the 64th session o the U.N. General Assembly liaison person between the Church and the Provincial
Task Force set up to ensure the safety and to obtain
Mr. Chairman, International consensus has last decade more than two million munitions; that they lack the safe release of Fr. Mick. His role is not that of
As we consider the promotion grown as governments have children have been killed in the sufficient food and housing; that “negotiator”.
and protection of the rights of become more aware of the need course of armed conflict; six they are deprived of schooling; I realize that these reports may be published in
children, we also commemorate to protect all children. In this million have been left disabled, that they become sick with AIDS, good faith and in the hope that Fr. Mick’s release is
the adoption of the Convention regard, my delegation encourages tens of thousands mutilated malaria and tuberculosis without imminent. But inaccurate statements, from whatever
on the Rights of the Child, an all States that have not yet done by antipersonnel mines, and access to medicines; that they source, can cause confusion among the public and
important instrument aimed at so to join in furthering the legal over 300,000 recruited as child are sold to traffickers, sexually further anxiety and pain to those close to him. They
protecting the rights and interests protection of children by ratifying soldiers. exploited, recruited into irregular can also be unhelpful to the efforts to obtain his speedy
of children. or acceding to the Convention In our discussions on ending armies, uprooted by forced and safe release. We would, therefore, like to appeal
In the course of the past twenty and the Protocols and calls for a violence against children we displacements, or compelled into for understanding from everyone to be very cautious
years the Convention has been correct application of these legal cannot but call to mind that for debilitating work. and discreet about issuing public pronouncements.
ratified or acceded to by almost instruments which entails respect too many children the right to life Eliminating violence against May the God of Peace bless all our efforts to bring
two hundred States; the Optional for the inherent right to life of all is denied; that prenatal selection children demands that the state Fr. Mick safely home.
Protocol on the involvement of children. eliminates babies suspected to and society support and enable
children in armed conflict has been A recent UNICEF report have disabilities and female the family to carry out its proper Rev. Patrick O’Donoghue
ratified by almost 130 countries; comes with good news: the children simply because of their responsibility. Governments must Regional Director
and the Optional Protocol on the global under-five mortality has sex; that oftentimes children assume their rightful role to protect Philippine Region
sale of children, child prostitution decreased steadily over the become the first victims of and promote family life because Missionary Society of St. Columban
and child pornography has been past two decades. However, famines and wars; that they the family has obvious vital and October 16, 2009
ratified by over 130 countries. statistics also tell us that in the are maimed by unexploded For too / B7
 Ref lections
CBCP Monitor
B6 Vol. 13 No. 22
October 26 - November 8, 2009

The widow’s gift: An example of Christian response

32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year B (Mark 12:38-44) November 8, 2009
By Msgr. Lope C. Robredillo, SThD In today’s Gospel, Mark tells us of them, part with his riches, the
the story of Jesus’ denunciation poor widow gave all she had.
of the scribes and his observation Having much wealth, the man
IN the Gospel of the previous Sunday, we on the crowd who put their depended on it; and his wealth
noted that in the Old Testament, the people’s money into the treasury of stood in the way to discipleship.
the temple. What is of much On the other hand, the widow
response to God’s initiative is expressed in relevance to us is the second, had nothing to lean on except
their keeping of his commandments which, where a poor widow put in God himself; and it was easier
according to Jesus’ summary, are summed two small coins, for this story is for her to give everything she
up in the one commandment of loving God connected with the point stressed had. For Mark, this illustrates
in the Gospel last Sunday. the truth that only a truly poor
with all of one’s heart, mind and strength, This pericope considered as an person can walk in the footsteps
and of loving his neighbor as himself. independent story—probably of of Jesus. Wealth is a hindrance to
it. A poor one, on the other hand,
entrusts himself totally to God to
care for him.
In the second contrast, the story
of the poor widow immediately
follows Jesus’ denunciation of
the scribes: “Beware of the scribes
who like to go around in long
robes and accept greetings in the
marketplaces, seats of honor in the
synagogues, and places of honor at
banquets. They devour the houses
of widows and, as a pretext, recite
lengthy prayers” (Mark 12:38-
40a). For Mark, the scribes were
people who were knowledgeable
about the commandment of love
of God and neighbor, and it is for
this knowledge that they were
accorded honors at banquets,
marketplaces, and presidential
www.catholic-resources.org

tables. And yet, they did not

www. biblicalmites.com
put into action their knowledge
of the law. Indeed, instead of
showing God’s love by giving to
the poor, they exploited them, like
the widows whose houses they
devoured. On the other hand,
almsgiving—that Mark used in the widow might not have been
Fr. Russel Bantiles writing his Gospel, the widow as knowledgeable about the law

COGITO
represents what is best in the as the scribes, yet, she took it to
piety of the Old Testament. She heart. Instead of exploiting others,
placed all her two copper coins which she could not do, she gave
in one of the thirteen trumpet- everything to God. She trusted in
shaped receptacles for offerings him, not wealth. Indeed, she could

A life well lived in the Court of Women in the

Jerusalem Temple. In doing so,
she demonstrated, poor though
have kept the other coin, and gave
only one to the temple treasury,
but she did not.
she was, her love for God out of Both contrasts make it clear that
her whole heart, soul, mind and all men are capable to responding
READING a very thought-provoking book achievements, etc. today make decisions based on feelings, not strength. She gave all she had to to God’s generosity by being
of our professor, a Spanish philosopher If you think the past (especially your past) so much on rational deliberations. live on (Mark 12:44). generous in love. A person, no
Alejandro Llano, titled “La vida lograda” (A is better than the future (especially your Worst, the movements of one’s emotions In addressing his followers, matter how poor, like the widow,
life well-lived), I could not help but dedicate future) and if you keep on saying that the (which are fluctuating) are interpreted as a however, Jesus appropriated this has always something to give.
a few moments digesting his ideas. I thought days past are better-off than today and that sign of the right thing to do, the guide of one’s story as a lesson of discipleship. But an even more important
I might as well provoke you, my dear readers, tomorrow will be worse (especially when decision-making. “What’s important is I feel To begin with, in the Old point is that the greatness of
to think, so I decided to share these thoughts you say it with the certainty of the sun good,” said one friend of mine over the net. Testament, a woman was a one’s response is not seen in
with you. shining every morning), then, I’m sure you And I responded: “To feel good is the least; dependent creature, either on the amount that is given, for a
are already old. what’s important is to be good.” her husband or her father. But wealthy man can always give
*** *** she could not inherit from her from his surplus. Rather, what
“Examinar qué es lo que me hace crecer “Para saber lo que debemos hacer, hemos *** husband, and in the early period is decisive in the generosity of
en cuanto persona y qué es aquello con lo de hacer lo que queremos saber” (In order “Hay que discutir las ideas y no criticar a of Israel’s history, she was part one’s response is the amount that
que yo mismo me puedo dañar y malograr to know what we should do, we should do las personas” (We should discuss and criticize of the inheritance of the eldest is left. Hence, Jesus’ comment on
mi vida” (Examine what makes me grow as what we want to know.) ideas not persons). son. We mention this to indicate the poor widow: “Amen, I say to
a person and what is that which harms me It may appear like a word game. But its People will not be motivated to correct how poor the widow was at the you, the poor widow put in more
and turns my life into a waste.) message is very simple: let’s put into practice their errors if criticisms are directed against time of Jesus. In using this story, than all the other contributors to
It’s another way of expressing what what we know (or want to know). “By their person (we call it “argumentum ad Mark was able to present two the treasury. For they have all
Socrates declared long time ago: “An nature, man desires to know”, says Aristotle. hominem”) rather than towards their errors contrasting pictures: the poor contributed from their surplus
unexamined life is not worth living”. It is And man wants to know only the good (at or mistakes. A student is better motivated widow and the rich man (Mark wealth, but she, from her poverty,
part of our human nature to keep ourselves least, what is good for him) for, as the same to study more if you tell him: “Your answer 10:17-32), and the poor widow has contributed all she had, her
away from harm and to cling to what keeps philosopher says, “no man willingly does to this mathematical problem is wrong and the scribes (Mark 12:38-40). whole livelihood” (Mark 12:44).
us whole and fulfilled. Yet, the difficulty wrong.” because the formula you used lacks one Whereas the man who wanted This is what discipleship really
nowadays is that most harmful things However, it’s useless to know anything if element”, rather than “Bobo ka kasi!” (You’re to follow Jesus and who was entails. Like the poor widow, we
present themselves under the guise of what our knowledge does not lead us to action, if stupid!). rich could not, after having been have to give up everything to
is pleasurable and comfortable. our knowledge does not tell us what to do. In our politics, in our movie industry, challenged by the Lord to get rid follow Jesus in his footsteps.
“In order to know what we should do, we even in our neighborhood, in our workplace,
*** should do what we want to know”. we can observe a lot of “argumentum ad
“Es joven toda aquella, todo aquél, para hominem” in our comments on one another.
quien el futuro presenta mayor interés que *** What is worst, we get used to it to the point
el pasado” (Young is he or she to whom the “Lo decisivo no es sentir; lo decisivo es that we could not distinguish anymore an
Bishop Pat Alo

ENCOUNTERS
future is more interesting than the past.) pensar” (What is decisive is not to feel but argument (or a criticism) against an idea
The old ones say: “The problem with the to think.) from that which is against a person. When
youth is that they always talk about their If only the majority would base their life’s our friend tells us that we are wrong in saying
future—their dreams, plans, ambitions, decisions on what they have thought of that Noynoy Aquino is running for president,
fantasies, etc”. Then, the youth replied: “The rather than what they felt, a lot of problems at times we immediately react saying: “Ibig
problem with old people is that they keep (especially emotional and relational ones) mong sabihin sinungaling ako?” (So you
on remembering their past—adventures, would be avoided or solved. But most people think I’m a liar?)

Bo Sanchez

SOULFOOD
The deepening process
Define your greatest achievements IF our spirituality is that superficial, it means we have
overlooked certain aspects; because a thing is said to be good
when it possesses the normal characteristics, bad when an
element is lacking.
MY favorite pastime is spending Now don’t get me wrong. I really proud of? time for something that others In this respect, it’s no use pointing accusing fingers at others,
a day in a bookstore. consider it an achievement that Here they are: would consider completely which will not solve the problems. What has been lacking in
Intellectually, it invigorates I wrote best-selling books. I’m When I visit my 82-year old unproductive… the conscience education of our people, or what wrong ideas
me. not ashamed of that. In the same father, and just sit beside him, But this too is one of my have been disseminated therein?
Emotionally, it refreshes me. way that I consider having my and hold his hand tenderly. And greatest achievements. Maybe we just need to remind about certain principles
Spiritually, it inspires me. article published in Reader’s because he has lost most of his And after a long day, I catch that are found in God’s unerring word. For example, the
And financially, it saves me Digest a nice feather in my cap. language skills, we don’t talk my wife slumped by the couch, following.....”Do unto others what you want others do unto
money! Because I don’t have to Or being able to preach God’s much. Instead, we smile, touch, tired from a day of house chores, you” (Mt. 7:12). God’s word asks us to do our good deeds,
buy the books I read. I just read Word all over this planet. Or laugh, embrace, and enjoy each and I quietly stand behind her, not for show or to gain human admiration if we are to gain
it in the store! (Shhhhhh. Can we writing for the number one other presence. kiss her, say “thank you” to her, the reward of our Father in heaven who sees everything
keep this our little secret?) Catholic Inspirational Magazine That, my friends, is one of my and give her a loving shoulder and knows all things (cf. Mt. 6:1-34). In this same chapter,
Somewhere in the bookstore is in Asia for the past eleven greatest achievements. massage… God assures us He will provide for our needs, so long as
the Bestsellers List. I like looking years. Or helping start dynamic And when I’m b eat ing That would be high up in “My we trust in Him firmly and seek to do His will. “Seek ye
at that too because it gives me organizations such as Anawim, deadlines, very busy writing Greatest Achievements” list. first the kingdom of God and live His righteousness and all
an idea of the popular trends in and Shepherd’s Voice, and articles on my computer, and And when I visit friends, or other things shall be provided for. Does He not provide for
society, the thoughts that fuel Light of Jesus Community then see my little son playing on even just call them by phone, or the birds, the plants, the flowers.....how much more for you,
people’s minds and actions. and its Counseling Center. the floor. And I decide to leave write them letters. o people of little faith?” (cf. Mt. 6:25-34).
But recently, I get embarrassed Or composing worship music my chair and sit on the floor I consider those times my Yes, people have to deepen their faith and trust in God who
looking at this list. through the past twenty-two with him. And I get a ball and greatest moments. takes care of those who trust in Him. To deepen means to
Because my name regularly years. roll it towards him. He giggles They define who I am. make an effort of faith and trust even amidst the various trials
appears on it! They’re nice achievements, and rolls it back towards Daddy. Not my books. of this transitory life. Have they ever been disappointed, who
(People might catch me looking yes. And I roll it back to him. And he Not my organizations. trust in God and His beloved Son Jesus Christ, Our Savior
at that list and say, “Gosh, Bo is But I’m sorry, they’re not my rolls it back to me. You get the Not my songs. who came down to earth to be near us, His people? He had
really vain. He likes reading his greatest achievements. idea. I waste thirty-five minutes Not my preaching. said: “I myself will shepherd My people....” (Ezk. 34:11-16).
name up there.”) Do you want to know what I’m of my precious “executive” But my love.
 Social Concerns
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 13 No. 22
October 26 - November 8, 2009
B7

Land to feed the foreigners is famine for Filipinos

By Fr. Shay Cullen being acquired by rich nations to grow Any Filipino growing food on that
food, not to produce and sell back to land, public or otherwise will be forced
the poor of the developing nation who off if they refuse to move out that could
WORLD poverty, hunger, violence, own the land but for their own people. cause widespread social unrest and
disease and great social injustice are They will feast securely while the poor play into the hands of the Communists.
traced to the unequal distribution of the will continue to starve. The corrupt China is trying to get 1.24 million
greatest source of national survival and politicians of the developing nations, hectare here also. Qatar is negotiating a
sustainability ─ land. Land produces many of them land owners, are giving deal with President Macapagal-Arroyo
food, water, forests, minerals, living away public lands by long term lease to get 100,000 ha. Saudi Arabia bought
space and manufacturing sites. It is to foreign buyers. These are lands that 500,000 ha in Tanzania. The Democratic
what sustains all life and all creatures ought to be distributed to the rural poor Republic of the Congo is closing an
and all living things. Land is life and to farm and grow food and prosper. 8 million hectares land sale to South
without it humans cannot survive and You can be sure that some of African businessmen.
lead a life of dignity, decency and have these officials are getting handsome Land leasing to foreigners might
a love of the planet. kickbacks under the table as pay-offs be one dirty trick to circumvent land
Land, owned and controlled by the for the foreigners to make the deals go reform in the Philippines which has
ruling elite is power over the poor who through. When they can allow foreign only distributed 6 million hectares
are mostly tenant farmers, crop-sharers, investors and sex tourists to exploit, during the past 15 years. There is much
farmhands and all totally dependent traffic and buy and sell the bodies more to be shared out to the millions
on the landlords. The landlords can of children and women here with of landless poor.
astutely exploit the insecurity, hunger impunity, then leasing the sovereign Only a handful of rich families,
and sickness of the poor through lands to foreign nations that rightfully politicians, and tycoons own or control
patronage and turn it into votes for belong to the Filipino people is just a most of the private arable land in the
the family dynasty to retain political push over. They will get away with Philippines while the majority go
power indefinitely. it also. landless and hungry. For example, 7
No wonder the rich and wealthy hang Already 20 million hectares, half the out of 10 peasants still do not own land
on their vast estates and haciendas and size of the arable land of all Europe has while less than 1/3 of landowners own
resist every kind of land reform. No been already sold. Africa is a prime more than 80% of agricultural land.
wonder too that giant multinationals target. South Korea got 700,000 hectares Not only has the land reform project
corporations and even other sovereign in the Sudan, one of the poorest nations (CARP) failed .Only a fraction (17%)
© Roy Lagarde/CBCP Media

nations covet land in the developing on the planet and is getting 94,000 ha of the 1.5 million hectares of private
world. Their greed is becoming in Mindoro, here in the Philippines for lands has been fairly redistributed to
insatiable and they are devouring 25 years. When they got 1.3 million the tenants who worked the land. To
more and more land across the globe hectares in Madagascar on a 99 year lease out land to feed rich foreigners
in the great international land grab of lease, there was a quick coup and the while Filipinos go landless and hungry
the century. sitting president as overthrown. The is a policy of utter disaster and immoral
According to the UN and global new government rescinded the deal. at that. There will be a terrible price
analysts, at least 30 million hectares are Politicians beware. to pay.

Stewardship / B1 Vatican / B1

But what precisely is the future they want to a fortunate few, while leaving millions of satisfaction of whatever is righteous. who have approached the Holy explore the possibility of union
to claim? Where do they start? The good and others not only on the margins of progress but The time has come, we pray, that elections See have made clear their desire with the Catholic Church under
prudent steward looks around and considers in living conditions far below the minimum should be approached by the citizens with a for full, visible unity in the one, the banner of an Anglicanism
what is currently available, before s/he even demanded by human dignity … And how steward’s mind and heart who values prevail holy, catholic and apostolic “reunited but not absorbed”.
weighs the future. When selecting new leaders, can we remain indifferent to the prospect over self-seeking motivations. Church. At the same time, they At the Second Vatican Council
the first to be considered are the main issues of an ecological crisis which is making vast This time when the individual Filipino, have told us of the importance hope for union was further
in the land. Issues? areas of our planet uninhabitable and hostile acting as the steward, registers that one well- of their Anglican traditions of nourished when the Decree on
Poverty and corruption are not only to humanity?” (NMI 50, 51). thought of vote, s/he makes that decision that spirituality and worship for their Ecumenism (n. 13), referring to
big issues, they are perennial issues in the Then there is now more corrupt practice already binds the country’s future. faith journey,” Cardinal Levada communions separated from
Philippines no matter what governance or that is not just prevalent in Philippine society Kapag ginamit ang pag-boto bilang said. the Catholic Church at the time
whoever makes the governance that the people but is frighteningly almost imbedded in mabuting pamamahala, magiging atin The provision of this new of the Reformation, stated that:
have. The truth is that poverty has escalated people’s culture. You see this everywhere, and kinabukasan, sapagka’t natuto nang structure is consistent with the “Among those in which Catholic
and spread so fast recently that latest surveys poverty in the midst of corrupt leadership magpahalaga hindi sa pera kung hindi commitment to ecumenical traditions and institutions in part
show that nearly half of the Filipino families and governance. Graft and corruption is sa dangal ng Pilipinong Mamamayan at dialogue, which continues to continue to exist, the Anglican
consider themselves poor today, while 42% of freely discussed and debated on television Kristiyano! be a priority for the Catholic Communion occupies a special
Manila families remain poor. The breathing talk-shows, radio-commented on air, talked God-fearing persons who are moral and Church, particularly through the place.”
picture of poverty is seen everywhere—in the about and made fun of by drivers and their those not given to vice/s and who are reverent efforts of the Pontifical Council Since the Council, Anglican-
squatter areas, esteros and canals, stilt and passengers; nearly everybody has an idea of life and are consistently the friends of the for the Promotion of Christian Roman Catholic relations have
carton houses, beggars and peddlers weaving of what corruption is in the country. The poor are readily the ones the stewards should Unity. “The initiative has come created a much improved climate
through moving traffic, sidewalks littered with quotation from George E. Taylor as cited easily trust. from a number of different of mutual understanding and
sleeping bodies at night. Alas, how have we by Samuel Huntington best described what Other considerations like money, groups of Anglicans,” Cardinal cooperation. The Anglican-
become so calloused to these sights of suffering politics and corruption are in the Philippines. popularity, force, propaganda, and deceit Levada went on to say: “They Roman Catholic International
as a Christian community and nation? “Politics is a major industry for the Filipinos; played much destruction in elections of the have declared that they share Commission (ARCIC) produced
The late Pope John Paul II of happy memory it is a way of life. Politics ia the main route to past and has prolonged the misery of the the common Catholic faith as it a series of doctrinal statements
made this statement in his Apostolic Letter power… More money can be made in shorter country until the present. To repeat their is expressed in the Catechism over the years in the hope
(Novo Millennio Ineunte) for the closing time with the aid of political influence than use in an election does not only put off the of the Catholic Church and of creating the basis for full
of the Millennium Jubilee nine years ago, by any other means … In all societies the peace and development of people, they accept the Petrine ministry as and visible unity. For many in
and although he was addressing the whole scale of corruption increases as one goes prolong and compound the suffering of the something Christ willed for the both communions, the ARCIC
world, we can consider this as addressed up the bureaucratic hierarchy or political Filipino People. Church. For them, the time has statements provided a vehicle
to the Philippines, particularly after seeing ladder.” (Samuel Huntington, Political Order Be a good steward of your only one vote! come to express this implicit in which a common expression
local poverty in our land today after two in Changing Societies, p. 67) God love and bless you all! unity in the visible form of full of faith could be recognized. It is
recent typhoons, Ondoy and Pepeng to The mutual reaction between the two is communion.” in this framework that this new
boot. “Our world is entering the new such that as corruption increases, poverty (Homily delivered by His Eminence Gaudencio According to Levada: “It is the provision should be seen.
millennium burdened by the contradictions worsens. In every election blame and counter B. Cardinal Rosales, Archbishop of Manila at the hope of the Holy Father, Pope In the years since the Council,
of an economic, cultural and technological accusation are exchanged endlessly without Eucharistic Celebration during MAGPAS 3 on Benedict XVI, that the Anglican some Anglicans have abandoned
progress which offers immense possibilities the real issues being confronted to the October 17, 2009, St. Paul University, Manila.) clergy and faithful who desire the tradition of conferring Holy
union with the Catholic Church Orders only on men by calling
will find in this canonical structure women to the priesthood and
For too / B5
the opportunity to preserve those the episcopacy. More recently,
organic links with society. Civil enough the importance of the but instead are complementary application of child participation Anglican traditions precious some segments of the Anglican
society also has an important role family in the life of each and principles derived from the it must always be remembered, to them and consistent with Communion have departed from
to play in supporting the family every child and that all legislation nature of the human person. as is affirmed in the Convention, the Catholic faith. Insofar as the common biblical teaching on
and counteracting all forms of regarding children must take into This year the General Assembly that States Parties are called to these traditions express in a human sexuality—already clearly
violence against children. For account the indispensable role of continues its consideration of “respect the responsibilities, distinctive way the faith that is stated in the ARCIC document
its part, the Catholic Church’s parents, for children are born of the right of children to express rights and duties of parents … to held in common, they are a gift “LifeinChrist”—bytheordination
over 300,000 social, caring and a mother and father, and into the their views freely in all matters provide, in a manner consistent to be shared in the wider Church. of openly homosexual clergy
educational institutions work fundamental community which is affecting them and so rightly with the evolving capacities of the The unity of the Church does and the blessing of homosexual
daily to ensure both education the family. Not surprisingly, the focuses on the importance of child, appropriate direction and not require a uniformity that partnerships. At the same time, as
for children and provide the Universal Declaration of Human truly hearing them. All children guidance in the exercise by the ignores cultural diversity, as the the Anglican Communion faces
reintegration of abused and Rights has rightly affirmed that need to be respected fully in their child of the rights recognized in history of Christianity shows. these new and difficult challenges,
neglected children into their “the family is the natural and inherent dignity for they are fully the Convention” (Article 5). Moreover, the many diverse the Catholic Church remains
families if possible, and into fundamental group unit of society human beings. The Convention On this occasion the Holy See traditions present in the Catholic fully committed to continuing
society. and is entitled to protection by on the Rights of the Child does once again reaffirms its constant Church today are all rooted in the ecumenical engagement with
At times, in deliberations on society and the State” (Article 16,3), not explicitly include an article concern for the well-being and principle articulated by St. Paul the Anglican Communion,
the promotion and protection of and that, relatedly, “motherhood on a specific right to participate. protection of all children and in his letter to the Ephesians: particularly through the efforts
the rights of the child, there can and childhood are entitled to Nonetheless, the Convention their families and continues to ‘There is one Lord, one faith, one of the Pontifical Council for the
unfortunately be a tendency to special care and assistance” and does contain articles that take call all States to do the same baptism’ (4:5). Our communion is Promotion of Christian Unity.
speak in terms of the relationship “all children, whether born in or into account the participation with renewed urgency since all therefore strengthened by such In the meantime, many
between the child and the state out of wedlock, shall enjoy the of children, for example, in children deserve to grow up in a legitimate diversity, and so we individual Anglicans have
while inadvertently minimizing same social protection” (Article expressing their views and stable and healthy environment in are happy that these men and entered into full communion
the role of parents. In this regard 25,2). These affirmations are not having these views heard (Article keeping with their dignity. women bring with them their with the Catholic Church.
my delegation cannot emphasize concepts imposed from the outside 12). In considering the concrete Thank you, Mr. Chairman. particular contributions to our Sometimes there have been
common life of faith.” groups of Anglicans who have
entered while preserving some
Background information “corporate” structure. Examples
Since the sixteenth century, of this include, the Anglican

CBCPMonitor
when King Henry VIII declared the diocese of Amritsar in India, and
Name _________________________________________________ Church in England independent some individual parishes in the
(Family Name) (Given Name) (Middle Name) of Papal Authority, the Church United States which maintained
of England has created its own an Anglican identity when
doctrinal confessions, liturgical entering the Catholic Church
SUBSCRIPTION RATES Mailing Address _______________________________________________ books, and pastoral practices, under a “pastoral provision”
_________________________________________________ often incorporating ideas from adopted by the Congregation
the Reformation on the European for the Doctrine of the Faith and
The CBCP Monitor is published fort- Phone No.: ________ Fax No.: ________ E-mail: ___________ continent. The expansion of the approved by Pope John Paul II in
nightly by the CBCP Media Office, with Mode of Payment British Empire, together with 1982. In these cases, the Catholic
editorial and business offices at 470 Anglican missionary work, Church has frequently dispensed
 Check/PMO enclosed  Cash Payment eventually gave rise to a world- from the requirement of celibacy
Gen. Luna St., Intramuros, Manila. PO wide Anglican Communion. to allow those married Anglican
(Payable to: CBCP Communications Development Foundation Inc.)
Box 3601, 1076 MCPO Throughout the more than 450 clergy who desire to continue
• Domestic years of its history the question ministerial service as Catholic
1 Year Php 500.00 _____________________________ of the reunification of Anglicans priests to be ordained in the
2 Years Php 900.00 Signature and Catholics has never been Catholic Church.
• Foreign: Asia far from mind. In the mid- In the light of these
1 Year US$ 55.00 nineteenth century the Oxford developments, the Personal
Movement (in England) saw Ordinariates established by the
• All Other US$ 80.00 a rekindling of interest in the Apostolic Constitution can be
PLEASE SEND TO: Catholic aspects of Anglicanism. seen as another step toward the
CBCP Monitor, P.O. Box 3601, Manila, Philippines In the early twentieth century realization the aspiration for full,
470 Gen. Luna St., Intramuros, Manila, Philippines | Tel (632) 404-2182 • Telefax (632) 404-1612 Cardinal Mercier of Belgium visible union in the Church of
Or e-mail this at [email protected] entered into well publicized Christ, one of the principal goals
conversations with Anglicans to of the ecumenical movement.
 B8 Entertainment CBCP Monitor
Vol. 13 No. 22
October 26 - November 8, 2009

Moral Assessment Technical Assessment

 Abhorrent  Poor
 Disturbing  Below average

 Acceptable  Average

 Wholesome  Above average

 Exemplary  E
xcellent

In 500 Days of Summer, Tom non-linear fashion, the viewer is Title: 500 Days of Summer
(Joseph Gordon-Levitt) is an enabled to seriously analyze how Cast: Joseph Gordon-Levitt,
architect too timid to pursue his a past event affects and effects Zooey Deschanel, Geoffrey
career, so he’d rather be a writer a present malady—something Arend, Chloe Moretz, Mat-
of greeting cards. Summer (Zooey which involves the viewer in the thew Gray Gubler
Deschanel) begins work as the characters’ lives. By Day 500 it Director: Marc Webb
new assistant to Tom’s boss. He is becomes clear why things turn Producers: Mason Novick,
smitten the moment he spots the pert out the way they do, and we can Jessica Tuchinsky, Mark
Summer walking down the office on only hope the characters in the Waters, Steven J. Wolfe
her first day of work, unaware she’s story see it as clearly as we do. Screenwriters: Scott
being noticed. Tom’s chemistry Screenwriters Scott Neustadter Neustadter, Michael H.
doesn’t remain one-way for long, and Michael H. Weber certainly Weber
as Summer notices and likes his show a good grip on a love affair’s Music: Mychael Danna, Ron
looks, so one day she makes her twists and turns, which good actors Simonsen
move over the copying machine. Deschanel and Gordon-Levitt give Editor: Alan Edward Bell
In no time at all he falls in love with justice to. The combination of Genre: Comedy/ Drama/ Ro-
her, but while she has let him deep those factors must have delighted mance
into her world, sees no one else but director Marc Webb. Cinematography: Eric Steel-
him, and says she is perfectly happy 500 Days of Summer is a movie berg
with their relationship, she wants that begins by telling us how the Distributor: Fox Searchlight
nothing permanent—only to enjoy love story will end and is about how Location: Los Angeles, USA
her life and her youth. Summer’s clueless the lover is till the end. Running Time: 95 mins.
apparently casual attitude towards MTRCB rates it PG 13—CINEMA Technical Assessment: 
love baffles and then frustrates Tom. would be inclined to label it an adult
Sometime around the middle of 500 film, due to its attempt to treat the Moral Assessment: ½
days serious trouble begins which theme deeply. The presence of CINEMA Rating: For mature
later on leads to a break up. But Tom a pre-adolescent girl as a “love viewers 18 and above
wouldn’t fall out of love and is in fact adviser” to an older man doesn’t
determined to get her back. make it innocent or acceptable. is what 500 Days of Summer
500 Days of Summer opens on Sex is a given here (and in fact is tries to say. Things and people
Day 488 and then jumps back and the main factor in the attraction are not always what they seem:
forth, with each episode annotated between the lovers)—and, like while some people may be easy to
and marked as “Day…” It is an an airborne virus, is not a good read, others may be the opposite
ingenuous approach to telling thing for young people to “catch”. of the image they project. People
a story that allows an incisive There is a big lesson here about hide behind masks without even
look into how love relationships the need to be attentive to signs being aware of it. Experience tries
“go wrong”. Billed as a “romantic and signals, especially where it to teach us, but does experience
comedy” this one is anything but concerns emotions. People like season us? Perhaps the hero here
light and laughable. In fact, through to see what they want to see will know after 100 days of .. uh…
the recollection of events in a when it comes to love, and that autumn?

MAC en COLET Ni Bladimer Usi

Buhay Parokya Look for the images of Pope

Leo XIII, All Saints, and a
Candle.(Illustration by Bladimer
Usi)
Title: Ang Laro ng Buhay
ni Juan
Cast: Ray An Dulay,
Angeli Bayani, Nico
Antonio, Richard
Quan, Ace Ricafort,
Perry Ecano
Director: Joselito Altare-
jos
Producer: Beyond the
Box
Screenwriters: Joselito
Altarejos, Peping
Salonga, Lex Bonife
Genre: Drama
Location: Manila
Running Time: 100
mins.
Technical Assessment:
 ½
Moral Assessment:
½
CINEMA Rating: For mature viewers 18 and above

Nakapagdesisyon na si Juan (Ray An Dulay), na kilala rin ng

karamihan bilang Erwin, na bumalik na sa kanyang probinsiya sa
Masbate upang alagaan ang kanyang inang maysakit at tuluyan
nang talikuran ang buhay sa Maynila. Magpapaalam siya sa
kanyang mga kapitbahay at sa kanyang kinakasamang si Noel
(Nico Antonio). Bagama’t lantaran ang pakikipag-relasyon ni Juan
sa kapwa lalaki, ay hindi naman lantaran ang kanyang trabaho
bilang live sex performer sa isang tagong gay bar sa Maynila.
Ang araw ng kanyang pag-alis papuntang Masbate ay ang huling
araw na rin ng kanyang trabaho. Matapos ang gabi ng kanyang
huling live performance at makuha ang kaukulang bayad dito, ay
nakapagdesisyon na siyang talikuran ng permanente ang ganitong
uri ng trabaho. Matapos niyang magbakasakali sa Maynila ng
tatlong taon ay kung anu-anong trabaho na rin ang pinasok niya
ngunit hindi niya nakuha ang suwerteng inaasam. Ngayong buo
na ang loob niyang talikuran ang mapaglarong siyudad, manalo
na kaya siya sa kanyang pagtaya sa bagong kapalaran?
Payak kung maituturing ang kuwento ng pelikula na sinundan
lamang ang isang araw sa buhay ng isang taong nais magbagong-
buhay. Ngunit ang kapayakang ito ang nagpahatid at naglahad
ng epektibong kuwento ng mga taong ang buhay ay nakatago sa
dilim. Kitang-kita ang pagkakaiba ng buhay ni Juan sa araw at gabi.
Isang tipikal na kuwento ng mga taong nasadlak sa kahirapan at
may hanapbuhay na hindi nila kayang ipagmalaki. Maganda at
totoong-totoo ang eksenang ipinakita sa pelikula. Malinaw ang
pagkakalahad ng kuwento na hitik sa simbolismo. Mahuhusay din
ang mga nagsiganap na bagama’t mga hindi kilala at hindi malalaking
pangalan sa industriya ay nagawang magampanan ang kanilang
papel nang makatotohanan. Maganda ang direksiyon ng pelikula
sa kabuuan dahil na rin sa naging matapat ito sa mga katotohanan
ng lipunan na bihira na lang mapansin ng karamihan.
Marami ang katulad ni Juan – mga nagbakasakali sa Maynila
ngunit hindi nagtagumpay. Dalisay kung titingnan sa kabuuan ang
pagkatao ni Juan. Bagama’t nakipagrelasyon sa kapwa lalaki,
ipinakita naman na tapat siya kung magmahal at mapagmalasakit sa
kapwa. Sa kabila ng kanyang hanapbuhay bilang live sex performer
ay mabuti pa rin siyang anak sa kanyang ina at mabait din siya
sa kanyang mga kapitbahay. Yun nga lang, sadyang mapaglaro
ang tadhana sa mga tulad ni Juan kung kaya’t nasasadlak sila
sa mga hanapbuhay na hindi nila buong-pusong ginusto. Dapat
silang unawain sa halip na husgahan. Ngunit nakababahala pa rin
na nagiging katanggap-tanggap na sa lipunan ang pagsasama ng
dalawang lalaki na parang mag-asawa. Hindi kailanman magiging
panghabang-buhay ang ganitong relasyon at makasisira ito sa
pagbuo ng pamilya. Hindi rin dapat gawing dahilan ang kahirapan
upang masadlak sa prostitusyon at gawaing nakasentro sa
tawag ng laman. Pero kung tutuusin ay biktima lamang ang mga
katulad ni Juan ng sitwasyon. Katulad ng ipinakita sa pelikula,
hindi ang mga gaya niya ang tunay na masasama kundi iyong
mga taong pinagsasamantalahan ang kasawian ng iba. Labis na
nakakababaha rin ang ilang ipinakitang eksena ng hubaran sa
pelikula lalo na ang pagtatalik ng lalaki sa kapwa lalaki. Bagama’t
malinaw sa konteksto ng pelikula na ito’y isang naiiba at madilim
na mundo, maari pa rin itong magpadumi sa utak ng manonood
at makaimpluwensiya ng pag-iisip ng mga kabataan. Kaya’t
nararapat lamang ang pelikula sa mga manonood na may gulang
na 18 pataas.
 CBCP Monitor
Vol. 13 No. 22
October 26 - November 8, 2009
C1

The News Supplement of

Couples for Christ

Relief Operations
Continue at CFC Center
By Zeny Gimenez
ALMOST a month after the onslaught of twin typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng, re-
lief operations continue unabated at the CFC Center. Donations also continue
to pour in, already reaching more than P5 million as of press time, not counting
donations in kind.
The operations may be considered small, compared with efforts launched by big organizations but CFC’s work
is more focused – on CFC members (and there are many of them in Metro Manila and in the northern provinces)
and on GK residents. But the devastation was so vast and the demand for assistance so great that CFC has had to
accommodate requests from many other sectors and groups.
Many brethren from abroad have dug deep into their pockets, immediately remitting funds they have collected
from their members and families. These were most welcome during the early days when the need to send the
much needed basic items was greatest. The government of Malta also contacted CFC, and has committed to send
relief goods.
The focus of relief operations, now that the floods have abated, is now on rehabilitation, on helping those who
have lost their homes and belongings rebuild their lives. The International Council has asked leaders in Metro
Manila and in the provinces to make an in-depth assessment of the needs of affected people in their respective
areas, so that the work can be shifted to this more pressing work that has more long-lasting effects.

Top and bottom photos to the right show the extent of devastation wrought by the recent destructive typhoons. Left photo: CFC workers at the Home Office pack goods for distribution. Middle photo: Percy Andrada, area director of Baguio-Benguet (in orange
t-shirt) supervises the unloading of relief goods from the Center. Right photo: CFC fulltime worker Dict Jadulco and Jun Dujunco, area head for Baguio-Benguet, survey the damage.

CFC Defines Guidelines

for CFC GK Work
THE Couples for Christ International Council (IC) issued a state- tions does not mean that it is abandoning the
ment last October 12, 2009, defining and clarifying the guidelines GK villages. As the statement emphasized,
and directions that would govern CFC’s work with the poor and “Those residents in GK villages who have
the relationship between CFC and GK. been served by CFC will continue to benefit
This was in response to unsettled issues and concerns in the GK from this continued commitment of CFC.”
sites, “particularly in the areas of cooperation with GK Commu- The guidelines and directions, honed
nity Development Foundation, Inc. (GK) and the dual and parallel over more than a year of discussions with
leadership that has developed (in the sites).” The IC explained GK leadership under the facilitation of the
that these form the broad framework for the work that lies ahead Ateneo de Manila University led by its
for CFC as part of the community’s commitment to help uplift the President, Fr. Bienvenido Nebres, SJ, were
lives of the brethren. According to the IC this will pave the way presented to both GK and Ateneo on the
for “CFC to expand its work with the poor to respond more fully first week of October. But, the IC lamented,
to Christ’s call.” “the leadership of GKCDFI has rejected our
CFC’s work with the poor, under the umbrella of CFC ANCOP, position. We believe though that the work
includes such programs as Food, Livelihood, Health, Education cannot be further delayed, the confusion on
and Community Building (which essentially is the work of GK). the ground cannot be made to linger some more, and the affected Council. In making such identification, the CFC local area leader-
The IC emphasized that all these are founded upon Gospel values, poor cannot be made to suffer. Hence, we believe CFC should move ship should consider such factors as funding source, preference of
pastoral formation and capability building. The IC also pointed out on in the way we think best under the circumstances.” donors and partners and how best the interest of the poor may be
that this work will benefit not just residents in GK villages but will The following are the guidelines and directions: served in the specific site.
be introduced to migrant workers and their families, prisoners and 1. CFC shall continue to manage GK sites/villages currently 2. GK sites so identified as CFC-managed shall be run and oper-
their families, persons with disabilities, and other poor beneficiaries manned and operated by CFC, as determined and identified to ated by CFC in all aspects. Thus, CFC-managed sites will follow
identified by CFC’s local area leadership. be such by the CFC local area leaders, i.e., the local area council the CFC line of authority in both operational and pastoral matters.
However, the IC reiterated that CFC’s embarking on these direc- or governance team, with final approval of the CFC International A CFC-managed site shall be identified by naming it “CFC GK Vil-

Joe Tale is Elected to Laiko Board

lage,,” which may also include the name of the donor(s).
3. CFC members may volunteer to serve in GK sites not managed
by CFC and still maintain their membership in CFC. They shall
continue to be under the pastoral care of CFC.
4. For CFC-managed sites, CFC will be accountable only for funds
CFC Chairman Joe Tale was elected to the 15-member Laiko Board of
actually received by CFC serving in the said site. In this regard, all
Trustees during the Laiko biennial national conference held last October
CFC-managed sites shall be subject to audit to establish account-
16-18 in San Fernando, Pampanga. The term of the new Board is for two
ability.
years, commencing on January 2010.
5. The CFC IC shall issue guidelines regarding funds for CFC-
This is the first time that CFC is represented in the Board of Laiko (Sang-
managed sites.
guniang Laiko ng Pilipinas), the umbrella organization for Catholic lay
6. The CFC local area leadership may welcome visits of GK Na-
organizations in the Philippines. Laiko, formerly known as Council of the
tional workers in CFC-managed sites with prior coordination and
Laity of the Philippines, is under the Catholic Bishops Conference of the
clearance.
Philippines’ (CBCP) Episcopal Commission on the Lay Apostolate (ECLA).
7. Participation of CFC members in any GK event shall be subject
Bishop Gabriel Reyes of the diocese of Antipolo is the incumbent and
to guidelines of the local CFC area leadership.
outgoing chairman of ECLA. The incoming chairman, effective December
2009, is Bishop Jesse Mercado of the diocese of Paranaque.
In reiterating that CFC is not abandoning the work with the poor
Joe was also designated as the PRO during the board meeting and election
and the work of GK, the IC also stressed that “we are not asking
that followed. The new president of Laiko, and current Executive Vice-
CFC members to choose between CFC and GK, because CFC, as
President, is Edgardo Tria Tirona of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. The
stated, will continue to be involved in the work of GK, as an element
outgoing President is Linda Tacorda of the Teresian Association.
of its expanded work with the poor. If it is a choice to be made, it
The CFC delegation to the biennial conference consisted of IC members
is whether one serves in a CFC-managed GK site or in other sites
Joe Tale, Joey and Tess Arguelles and Lito and Linda Tayag as well as
managed by GKCDFI or its other partners. These are all GK sites,
Willie and Winnie Madarang, CFC leaders from the Metro Manila South
no matter who manages them; and all CFC who serve in any site
B sector.
can remain as CFC members.”
 C2 Ugnayan CBCP Monitor
Vol. 13 No. 22
October 26 - November 8, 2009

By Joe Tale, CFC Chairman

The Signs of the

Times
“JESUS said to the crowds, “When you see (a) cloud rising in the community has responded by standing firm, by keeping still, by a allow the face of Jesus to more clearly emerge.
west, you say immediately that it is going to rain – and so it does; deepening of our prayer life, by continuous soul-searching through As individuals, we are all probably facing our own personal
and when you notice that the wind is blowing from the south you planning sessions and workshops, by a deeper sense of our oneness storms, our own struggles and even with our best efforts, with the
say that it is going to be hot – and so it is. You hypocrites! You with each other and with our God. We have been led to repentance, best of intentions, we encounter obstacles and oppressions. What
know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and sky; why do and continue to be cognizant of our sinfulness and imperfections. are these saying to us? We need to be reminded that we are indeed
you not know how to interpret the present time?” Luke 12:54-56 But we too can have a prophetic role to play. engaged in a spiritual battle. Ephesians 6:12 tells us: “For we are
So, as a community, how else should we respond to the signs of not fighting against human beings but against the wicked spiritual
This verse is particularly apt for our present time, as we still the times? By our witnessing of the love and grace of God! Mat- forces in the heavenly world, the rulers, authorities, and cosmic
reel from the magnitude of the devastation brought by the recent thew 5:13-15 speaks of our needing to be “salt” and “light.” To be powers of this dark age.” Thus we are enjoined to “put on the armor
typhoons, as we shudder at the doomsday scenarios of a parched, salt implies several things: One is that salt is useless if it remains that God gives you so that you will be able to stand up against the
denuded planet and a disease-infested people. But beyond the signs on the kitchen shelf. For it to be useful, it must be mixed in with Devil’s evil tricks.” And to “stand ready, with truth as a belt…with
of bad weather and predictions of doom, what is the Lord trying to something. For us to be salt, we need be immersed in the work that righteousness as your breastplate… carry faith as a shield… and
tell us? How are we to respond to everything that is happening to needs to be done. We cannot be salt, we cannot have any influence, accept salvation as a helmet.”
us, as a nation, as a community, as individuals? if we just sit back, apart from the work, unaffected by it. Two, is The three verses above formed the spiritual mooring for the plan-
The flooding and landslides that hit our country, particularly that it takes only a little salt to give flavor to a great volume, much ning that Metro Manila Mission leaders had. While coming from
Metro Manila and the northern provinces, have been unprecedented like it takes only a little leaven to make the dough rise. We might different parts of the Bible, there is really a valuable thread that
in scope and in the severity of damage. We all need to do our part in take pride in our big membership, which we indeed praise God for, connects all three verses. How wonderfully these passages are truly
helping in the relief and rehabilitation of those affected. However, but we are really just miniscule in relation to the total. Nonethe- connected! As Bro. Jimmy Santiago shared in his beautiful reflection,
beyond this, we also need to ask, is there something more that we less, we can be salt wherever the Lord has placed us and we can these three verses really form a congruent message from and of the
need to do? I am reminded of Chronicles 7:14 which says: “If they bloom wherever we are planted. Third, as Bro. Mannix Ocampo Trinity, with God the Father speaking in Chronicles, Jesus speaking
pray to me and repent and turn away from the evil they have been reflected, is that to be salt of the earth is to die to self. Salt does not in Matthew and the Holy Spirit speaking in Ephesians.
doing, then I will hear them in heaven, forgive their sins and make retain its qualities when it is added to food. Rather it disappears, God’s hand has been continually preparing and equipping us,
their land prosperous again.” We heard this verse in the aftermath of and allows itself to be used to draw out the qualities of the food. as we go through the different phases of our community’s his-
Edsa 1, of Edsa 2 and the verse is even inscribed in perpetuity at the When we are salt, we allow our selfish motives to disappear and tory. When we look at the historical perspective, we can see that
Edsa Shrine. However could it be that our growth in the first 25 years, our
we have not done enough repentance great strides in family and social
and prayer? It is important that we renewal, was to show us that God’s
read on through verse 19 which says grace working in us is able to move
“But if you and your people ever dis- us as one great army for Him in the
obey the laws and commands I have fullness of our vision and mission.
given you and worship other gods, But then, we needed to be corrected/
then I will remove you from the land disciplined so that we can be prepared
that I gave you, and I will abandon this to do something greater that the Lord
temple that I have consecrated as the has in store for us. We believe we are
place where I am to be worshipped. now led to yet another phase, and that
People everywhere will ridicule it and is to share God’s gifts to us, to the
treat it with contempt.” How dire the world. Let us respond and rekindle
consequences of not being repentant our prophetic role as a community.
enough! What would it take for our Jesus asks us to interpret the
country to reflect on these words and present time. Let us do so in deep
to be moved to collective repentance, prayer, rooted in God’s Word. Let us
so that we can indeed take possession steadily move forward, being faith-
of the healing and prosperity that the ful to our vision, mission and goals.
Lord promises? Let us share with the world the gifts
We too have our own share of that the Lord gave us in Evangeli-
storms in our community. It has been zation, Pastoral Formation, Family
three years since we were thrust into Renewal and Total Christian Libera-
a maelstrom of difficulties, much of tion. Then, wherever we are, united
it rooted in relationships and in the in the community where we belong,
basic interpretation of how we are to we can indeed be salt and light to
live out our vision and mission. Our Bishop Amando Samo, bishop of Micronesia visited the CFC Center and said Mass for the staff. He is shown with the IC members after the Mass. today’s society and the world.

By Joe Yamamoto, CFC Director

Heart of a Soldier
(for Christ)
IN past articles, I wrote about the vari- of us. They are Joshua, Caleb, Gideon are to teach every soldier the value of dressed and understood what it would because he believed and followed the
ous facets of the life and work of CFC and David. listening and following commands and take for the soldiers to stand up for chain of God’s care- respecting and
leaders as supposed to be lived particu- Joshua, the son of Nun, belonged to learn to act as a team. Joshua’s effective- battle and have the conviction to win. following the leaders chosen to guide
larly in community. In whatever capac- one of the twelve tribes of Israel and be- ness was qualified by his obedience to He was a military leader, a brother and and direct them.
ity and role, their behavior and attitude came the heir to the prophet Moses. We Moses and the leaders of the tribes of a caring comrade in arms. As the Israelites ventured into the
as well as their actions come from the all know that Moses did the seemingly Israel. When he led the Israelite troops, AUDACITY is about courage, par- desert during their wanderings, they
very core of who they are- i.e. from the impossible task of leading the Israelites he did so in obedience to the leader- ticularly when ‘under fire’ and other had to fend off hostile tribes and face
HEART. The role of a CFC member as out of Egypt into the Sinai Desert and, ship of those placed above him and adverse circumstances. The dictionary them in battle after battle. Whether the
a soldier for his Christian faith is the in the process, broke the four hundred to the commands of the prophets. One defines audacity as boldness and fear- enemies were Amalekites or others,
subject of this article – not the profes- years of slavery and captivity under who wants to learn from the example lessness. It is derived from the Latin Caleb was always AUTHENTIC in his
sional trained for battle but rather the the yoke of the oppressive pharaohs. of Joshua should very well take note root word ‘audax,’ to be BOLD. The stand and in his discharge of duties and
citizen soldier who is expected to rise It was however, the fate and destiny of that his mentorship under Moses was reference to the audacity of Joshua will responsibilities. There was no insinua-
in defence of the very life of the com- Joshua to finally lead God’s people in not short but spanned four decades, not be complete without mentioning tion or mention of Caleb’s insecurity or
munity and its constituents. In short, a crossing the river Jordan to Canaan, the about the length of the Sinai Desert how he led the soldiers of Israel in the hesitation in serving Moses and later,
soldier for Christ. Promised Land. The unique and special wanderings. unorthodox way of breaching the walls Joshua. He was secure in his posture
Why and how do we even cite a sol- role of Joshua is highlighted in the SINCERITY - Joshua was SINCERE in of Jericho and subsequently destroying as a faithful co-servant.
dier as a role model for a CFC leader? way Moses changed his name from the his commitment to the people of God. the city and its army. At that instance, Joshua could always rely on Caleb,
As an evangelizing community, we can original Hoshea ( Salvation) to Joshua He gave a candid and truthful assess- a decisive and stunning victory was for the latter was not only available
relate to our usual role models of fish- ( Jehovah is Salvation). ment of the land beyond the mighty Jor- achieved by the Lord’s army under the but was likewise very LOYAL. Loyalty
ermen and shepherds but certainly not The sum of the leadership examples dan, the dangers as well as the bounty courageous leadership of Joshua. emanates from faithfulness. Loyalty de-
fighting soldiers. Nevertheless, there is of Joshua is spelled JOSHUA- good and the great potential waiting to be Any reference to the life and times of fines the ‘esprit de corps’, i.e. the spirit
a facet of CFC leadership that requires Judgment, Obedience, Sincerity, Humil- claimed. As leaders in the contemporary Joshua and his contributions will not of the group, without which there is no
the attitude of being a soldier. ity, Understanding and Audacity. setting,sincerity and honesty are a must be complete unless the role of Caleb is cohesion nor unity of purpose.
In 1985, at the beginning evangelistic As a leader, he displayed the qual- even for modern day Christians likewise mentioned. Little is known of ENCOURAGING refers to the pos-
thrust of CFC , the prophetic call to ”win ity of exercising JUDGMENT, good HUMILITY is a necessary attribute Caleb other than that he was the only ture and attitude of a leader that seeks
the world for Christ through Couples judgment, in fact. When confronted of all leaders, particularly in Christian other scout who agreed with Joshua in to draw the best out of his people. It
for Christ” was issued. Since then, that with the presence of the ‘giants’ in communities. God cannot use anyone his assessment of the threats and po- goes beyond the image of a coach or
call has become a mission order to be Canaan, the Promised Land, he looked according to His Divine Purpose if the tentials of the Promised Land Twelve a trainer who stands by the side of an
faithfully and dutifully implemented beyond the threat and saw that they one called is not humble enough to be scouts were sent to spy the Promised athlete and goads him or her to exert
by everyone. could be defeated in battle under the malleable in His hands. After all, our Land across the Jordan but only two some more in search of a win. It is re-
Winning requires so many things and right conditions. He refused to be in- role model is our Lord., the paragon of were courageous enough to disagree ally about understanding and caring for
part of that is holding on to ‘territories’ timidated by the external appearance humility. Joshua, for all his prowess in with the other 10! what is best for his people. It is good to
won over in the task of evangelization. of power and might of the enemy but battle, remained humble and waited Caleb, the son of Jephunneh, was a know that encourage comes from the
It is pretty much like an occupying army was confident and dependent instead on the Lord by waiting faithfully on Kennizite, a tribe of people descended root words “en” or in and ‘cor,’ i.e.
tasked with providing care except that on the faithfulness of the Lord. His gift Moses. After forty years of accompa- not from Israel ( Jacob) but from Esau, the heart. To encourage is to be able
CFC takes care of the spiritual rather of acting on good judgment helped him nying Moses and the people of God in the older brother. He was by the side to touch the heart of the person being
than the temporal concerns. lead the Israelites and win victories their desert wanderings, only Joshua of Joshua in all of the decisive battles cared for. It would not be farfetched to
In the Bible, particularly in the Old with them. and Caleb remained out of the twelve waged by the army of Israel. An ul- think that Caleb must have given hearty
Testament, there were many Godly OBEDIENCE – To learn to lead ef- scouts. Side by side, the two of them timate accolade to the role of Caleb encouragement to Joshua especially in
heroes who were used by God to wage fectively, one must have discipline finally helped execute the long-awaited was the privilege of joining Joshua in the heat and the thick of battles that they
war and win His battles. Not one and obedience. Leaders become good Jordan crossover. the final push for the crossover to the jointly waged.
of them came from a family lineage leaders only after they have learned to UNDERSTANDING is an endearing Promised Land. BRAVERY – Caleb had this quality
LAYOUT BY LAURENCE JOHN R. MORALES

of professional soldiers, nor even of practice the principles and rudiments quality of leaders that is acquired after The letters of his name can help in abundance. In ordinary Christian
prominent pedigrees, except perhaps of followership. In short, a good leader learning well from life experiences and characterize Caleb. He was Commit- life, courage and bravery are called
Joshua who became a military leader starts off as a good follower. One who distilling these into the pool of wisdom. ted, Authentic, Loyal, Encouraging for especially when confronted with
out of necessity. But all of them were leads must be positively sure that the Unlike the wisdom that was solely giv- and Brave. difficult decisions. A brave Christian
mightily used by the Lord to serve His rank and file of soldiers will follow en to Solomon, ordinary human wisdom To achieve anything, one must have is expected to take the right course of
purpose and change the course of his- the commands, do exactly as told and and understanding come from relating COMMITMENT to the cause, to the action despite the difficulty, and even a
tory consequentially. execute their mission orders faithfully to people over time and circumstances. vision, to the mission, to the peoples, possible unpopularity of the decision. A
Across the broad expanse of the his- and thereby achieve the prescribed ob- As leaders, we must patiently lead our to the leader. To accomplish God’s Christian leader is expected to act cor-
tory of the survival struggles of the jectives. constituents by being accessible warm plan, he must be committed to the rectly and righteously regardless of the
people of God, the lives and examples The purpose of the monotonous pa- bodies that the members can relate to Lord and to people placed over him. circumstance.
of four men provide inspiration for all rade drills and the demanding marches and learn to trust. Joshua correctly ad- Caleb was not insecure in his role (Part 2 to follow in next issue.)
 CBCP Monitor
Vol. 13 No. 22
October 26 - November 8, 2009
Ugnayan C3

Earth Spirituality
By Arnel Santos
THE Mission Core Group (MCG) of Couples for Christ gathered
on October 20, 2009 at Xavier Gymnasium, San Juan, Metro Ma-
nila, to hear the lecture of Most Rev. Dinualdo Gutierrez, D.D.,
Bishop of Marbel, on “Earth Spirituality.” This was a timely
subject, in the aftermath of typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng.
Bishop Gutierrez emphasized the spiritual grounding for our
relationship with planet earth. He issued the clarion call, “Peo-
ple of God, there is time, there is time…” to act and “respond
to earth so that there will be harmony and development.”
Bishop Gutierrez pointed out the seven (7) principles in
relating with our planet and nature.
1. A “communion of subjects” -- The dream is for a united
“uni-verse”.
2. “Interconnectedness” -- for nature is “so integrated into
the dynamics of society and culture.”
3. “Differentiation,” -- where every person is “irreplaceable
but nobody is indispensable.”
4. “Innerness,” -- as nature has its own inner energy to sustain
all forms of life, and this is still evolving and developing.
5. The principle that God created the universe, especially
earth, for man’s benefit. Bishop Gutierrez stressed that, “nature
is the expression of a design of love and truth. Nature speaks to
us of the Creator and His love. Hence, do not destroy it.”
6. The “precautionary principle” -- Our actions might cause
irreversible harm to our environment.
7. “Intergenerational justice and solidarity,” -- which stresses
that “the environment is God’s gift to everyone. In using it,
we have to be responsible towards the future generations and
humanity as a whole.”

Bishop Gutierrez concluded his talk by challenging everyone

that “those responsible [for harming the environment] must
Bishop Dinualdo Gutierrez poses for a souvenir photo with the members of the International Council after the teaching night. do penance.”

Stories of Triumph Amid the Floods

Carried In His Arms water coming out of the faucets. Fortunately, we
had a cistern. And so we started the backbreak-
ing task of dredging the mud and trying (often
leave the house.
It was Bing who sensed that the flood would
enter our house. She began bringing house items
We had to get out. And I have to swim, I thought
horribly. Fortunately, Dindi saw one of our sofas
floating by, grabbed hold of it and passed it on to
By Arnel Santos in vain) to make appliances submerged for days, and documents to the second floor. I was initially me for support. We were good to go.
work again. Fortunately, many people came – my not too concerned because our home is a two Once outside, the strong currents took us and
sister Arlen and Bing’s brothers, Cart and Nonoy, storey structure elevated about one and a half brought us to the middle of the street. We wor-
among others. meter from the road. It was where the neighbors ried that the current would take us straight to
As my cars were indisposed, my office partner sought refuge during the typhoon in 1990s during the river. Dindi was stirring, trying to go against
lent me his Starex van and driver for the day; which the Cherry Hill tragedy occurred. It is one the current, but she was getting tired. Then an
then his Altis car for the next few days; and our of the most massive and highest structures along inexplicable thing happened -- the current shifted
friend, Josie’s Honda CRV car, for the next two Corona St. and brought us back towards the house, near the
weeks. My own car is a 2000 Nissan Sentra and When floodwater entered, Bing was proven garage. I hooked my foot at the top of the gate and
our other car is a 1996 Nissan LEC. After Ondoy, right. And how she wished she was wrong. I pulled the others towards me. But the roof was still
Bing and I were on the road, riding a chauffeur- immediately dismantled the computer, the stereo too high! Another miracle—the van parked in the
driven Starex, then a brand new Altis and then, components, and the keyboards. Most importantly, garage moved towards us and floated. We climbed
a pristine white CRV. Surviving Ondoy in style? I turned the main electrical switch off. up on the van’s roof and from there we were able
Not so. This was extravagance. An experience of More important than the things were of course, to clamber up to the house roof. We were saved but
God’s extravagant love. the kids. I could only imagine what could have not really. It was 2:30 in the afternoon and there
Monday was my first time to see the devasta- happened if we were not there. was no rescue in sight.
tion. The village was ruined. Flashy cars covered The Feast of the Guardian Angel has been an I desperately hoped our parents were some-
Arnel’s son Emil tries in vain to clean up even as the flood in mud, trucks hanging on fences, shattered glass annual Ateneo tradition since the time, as the where safe—our last update came from our
still submerges their lower floor windows, wrecked metal gates, expensive house- story goes, when Ateneo students survived an neighbor who managed to call my parents. They
ON Saturday, September 26, 2009, typhoon Ondoy wares and appliances abandoned, and people, my earthquake and came out of the rubble unscathed were already at the village gate but could not enter
came and wreaked havoc over Metro Manila. Our neighbors -- on an exodus away from the village. and safe, protected as they were, by their guard- because of the high water.
village, (Village East Executive Homes in Cainta) I wept deep inside when I heard about the ian angels. On September 26, 2009, the guardian They have a different story to tell and it was an
was completely submerged, destroying our number of people dead, those missing, and those angels were again busy at work, not only at the even greater struggle for them, especially since
ground floor and our cars, and forcing the seven in evacuation centers, aside from the kinds of Ateneo, but right inside our home. my dad, Rey, has cancer and is no longer strong
of us – my father, my wife, my two children-- Emil, properties destroyed. All those tribulations in a It’s truly a wonderful thing being in a caring enough to do the impossible – to physically come
12 years old and Psalma, 3,-- househelps Mayang day of rains, while my family and I were just being community. During that week, I received many for us. When we were rescued (not until more than
and Jonalyn -- to be stranded at the second floor inconvenienced by second floor living. calls, all of them offering help in one way or twelve hours later, at 4 AM the following day), it
for three days. Tuesday afternoon, fellow CFC leaders Demy another – to fix my cars, to replace my damaged would be only then that we would know the extent
We had not thought to stock up on food. What and Jean Aquino came over for a visit. They appliances and kitchen utensils, to give cash of their suffering.
we had was rice, a few canned goods and behold, brought pastries and cleaning aids and materials. outright.
two dozen duck eggs and crabs brought by my Demy, an engineer, checked our electrical system; By Saturday, I was back to normal, meaning al-
cousin Editha the day before. Who would ever just in time, because MERALCO was doing their ready giving CFC talks. In those talks, I could not Rey’s Story
believe that we were Ondoy victims? My family rounds to replace the electric meters submerged contain what was all along in my heart. I blurted
survived the “ordeal” with what -- delectable duck by flood. By Tuesday evening, we had our elec- out how God intervened in everyone’s personal By Rey Peralta
eggs and delicious crabs? tricity back. biographies and deliberately made everything
By Sunday afternoon, September 27, 2009, we Demy told me about Nanding Conejo, one of fall into place, just for us to have the privilege of SUZETTE and I parked the car along Katipunan
ran out of drinking water and the food would no our sector leaders, who went to our village from gathering in an activity where we could testify to road and walked three kilometers through hip-
longer suffice. The flood outside was still chest- his house in Tondo, carrying tire interiors turned God’s goodness in our lives. God moved his loving deep floodwaters, braving strong currents until we
deep. We saw the villagers wading through the into rubber boats. He was bringing food and water. hands for us to have that encounter with Him. The got to the main gate of Provident Village. There,
murky water to look for food…in vain. The near- The military, however, did not allow him to enter least we could do was seize the chance and bask we were stopped -the water inside the village was
est open stores, I was told, were in the vicinity of the village; it, instead, confiscated his improvised in God’s presence. already about 10 feet high.
Cubao. Hence, it was back to our kneeling position rubber boat, and sent him home. Seeing that the water was still rising, we decided
to seek help from above. I asked Demy if Nanding has relatives in our ***** to cross the street to the laundry shop where we
At 5 PM, an answered prayer. We had an un- village. He said: “None. The food was for you begged the owner to let us go up to their second
expected visitor. It was my brother, Jong, and my
cousin Renan. They were drenched with rain and
flood water, walking more than five kilometers
and your family. The improvised rubber boat was
meant to rescue you. He could not contact you. So,
he just decided to come.”
Our Long Ordeal floor. Once we were safely there, the flood rose
even higher, carrying away all the vehicles below.
It was 6 PM, more than 6 hours since our last com-
from LRT Station in Santolan to our house. I felt a lump in my throat, was choked by it, Pia’s Story munication with our daughters. Soaking wet, there
They looked more like the Ondoy victims than and I fell silent. That Saturday was the height of was nothing we could do but pray the rosary. We
us. Except that they were the ones bringing the the flood in the village, the most dangerous time. By Pia Peralta stayed up all night long, praying together with the
pork steak, fried fish, rice, and drinking water. I would understand if Nanding was rescuing his other people who had sought refuge with us.
Perfect timing or God’s hand? family. But it was just us, fellow leaders in CFC. “PLEASE clear the skies, please clear the skies...” The following day at around 2 AM, the military
While the arrival of the food saved us, the bring- Why risk his life for us? That was the prayer I repeatedly uttered as the rescuers with rubber boats started arriving. Suzette
ers were soon retracing their steps in flood water We could also have lost everything in the ground night deepened and every drop of rain began to and I begged them to please go to our house, but
and dangerous roads, walking five kilometers floor, had Bing and I not been in the house that feel like small pebbles on our backs. We were all they prioritized the children, the sick and the old.
again, just to make it safely back home. This was Saturday. What made us stay was our son, Emil silent -- my sister, our two helpers and I--trying to We waited. The water by the main gate was now
plain and simple, compassion, the uniquely family who, weeks before, had asked us to block off fight the cold as we huddled together on top of the below our knees, but inside the village it was still
norm of self-sacrifice, risk-taking and love-driven that day for Ateneo Grade School’s Salu-Salo, an roof of our house. The only shield we had was about 10 feet high.
action. annual school fair to commemorate the Feast of prayer. The only consolation the fact that we were At around 4 AM, we saw the rescue teams bring-
There were no more floods by Monday morn- the Guardian Angel. But since the village was lucky to be alive after the events of the day. ing out a lot of children and old people – but then
ing. But there was mud all over. There was also no already flooded early that morning, we could not It was a cloudy morning on the 26th of Sep- they started to bring out the bodies of the dead.
tember, 2009 when my parents and little brother, It was horrible. All I could think about was my
Miko, left for Ateneo Grade School’s Family Day daughters. Where were they? Were they some-
activity. where safe?
It started raining around 9 AM. It was 11:30 AM Then, wonder of wonders, praise God, there
when my sister Dindi noticed the flooded streets they were on another rubber boat! It was truly an
in front of the house. We’ve had worst storms emotional moment. We could only thank God
before, I thought. The water will subside. But the profusely for this miracle of seeing our daughters
rain would not stop. and our two helpers safe.
Twelve o’clock. The water finally reached the But their story was not over. According to
first floor. We started transferring appliances, them, during the entire time they were on the
books and other things from the first floor to the roof, a white bird stayed right with them. While
next elevated floor. Dindi was constantly on the other birds were flying from place to place, this
phone talking to my parents about our current particular bird stayed where it was, seemingly to
situation, and she was relaying their instructions keep them company. Another miracle? Another
to me. “Uuwi daw sila,” Dindi said. sign of God’s wondrous love and providence? We
One o’clock. The water was slowly climbing definitely think so.
up the steps towards the elevated floor. We im-
mediately rushed to transfer appliances up to the
second floor. We went back down for the TV but
it was too heavy. In a span of minutes, we were
submerged up to our waist. Everyone was panic-
stricken. “Pia!” I heard Dindi cry out. She was
shaking horribly. “Nakuryente ako…” It turned
out she was trying to turn off the circuit breaker
as instructed by my parents and got a surge of
electricity. Her phone was suddenly dead. All
communication was lost. I knew we couldn’t stay
in the house. We needed to climb up to the roof.
But there was no way to reach that through the
second floor. I realized the only way to get outside
Joe Yamamoto, together with the area leaders of Leyte, recently paid a courtesy call on Archbishop Jose Palma of the was to swim through the main door, but we only
archdiocese of Palo, Leyte.
had minutes until the flood shuts the opening. Suzette and Rey Peralta
 C4 Ugnayan CBCP Monitor
Vol. 13 No. 22
October 26 - November 8, 2009

Curacao Holds MER 1 CFC Zamboanga Del

Sur Turns 17
CFC Pagadian City–Zamboanga del Sur celebrated its 17th anniversary last October
17-18, 2009 with the theme: “Running the Race to Win.”
One of the highlights during the anniversary was the groundbreaking and
blessing of the proposed CFC–Provincial Mission Center situated at B. Aquino
St., San Jose District, Pagadian City. The lot was donated by spouses Ben and
Sally Amoroso. Ben is a former member of the CFC Provincial Council and cur-
rently the Health Provincial Coordinator. Fr. Carding Pintac, parish priest of San
Jose Parish, blessed the lot in the presence of the Area Council: Jun de los Santos,
Provincial Area Director, Charles Zambo, Gerry Nebria and Undo Torres. Also
present were Caloy and Meriam Subang, Regional Head of Western Mindanao
and acting Regional Head of North Central Mindanao and Pempe Deguilmo, the
Provincial Area Head of Zamboanga del Sur. This is the third Provincial Mission
Center established in Mindanao.
Bong Bautista, the Provincial Area Director of Agusan del Norte and the concur-
rent Provincial Area Head of Surigao del Norte, emphasized full commitment and
obedience to God’s call of evangelization.

By Beth Santayana Simon, Fr. Morrison and the generous help of CFC USA.
Sharier and Miriam Dorand, area leaders of Curacao, were
CFC members from Curacao and St. Maarten were treated to a all praises for the retreat, saying, “The talks were fantastic,
weekend of talks, prayers and fun during the Marriage Enrich- everything was marvelous. Now we can truly continue to
ment Retreat (MER 1) held last October 2 to 4 at the Carmen’s build up CFC in Curacao.”
Guest House at Seru di Orashon in Curacao. Curacao also Wilfred and Barbara Evertsz, area leaders of St. Maarten,
hosted the 11th CFC Caribbean Conference last August. echoed this sentiment. “The MER I was truly a blessing for
Glen and Beth Santayana, country coordinators for the Caraib- all who attended. It really made us look at our marriage in
bean, traveled to Curacao to give some of the talks. Sister Therese, a different way and made us realize the things that we used
CFC fulltime worker and missionary based in Trinidad, initiated to take for granted. This is something that every married
and coordinated the weekend retreat with the assistance of Fr. couple should experience.”

CFC Bataan Celebrates 20th Anniversary

By Emmy Pineda adobo and pinakbet. The food tasted would have been no leaves to harvest by
much better than ever as everyone, the time the typhoon had passed.
AT the height of Typhoon Ondoy, last including CFC International Council The highlight of the celebration was
September 27, CFC Bataan celebrated member Rouquel Ponte, CFC Bataan the concelebrated Thanksgiving Mass,
its 20th anniversary at the Tomas Del Area Head Jimmy Ilagan and his wife which was officiated by Archbishop-
Rosario College (TRC) campus, located Lorna, gamely used their bare hands elect Soc Villegas at 1:30 pm. Before the
in the heart of the City of Balanga. The final blessing, the CFC Bataan brethren
and ate in standing position along both
event had for its theme “Championing sides of 70 long tables lined up with ba-
broke into singing of the “Happy
Christ Twenty Years and Beyond”, Birthday” song for Fr. Soc as an
in line with this year’s global theme advanced greeting for his birthday
of CFC – “Moving Forward in the following day. As Fr. Soc will
Christ.” be officially transferring to the
It was a flurry of exciting festivi- Archdiocese of Dagupan-Lingayen CFC Zamboanga leaders are shown during the groundbreaking: Left to right: Jun delos Santos,
ties that included different sports- in November 2009, an audio-visual PAD; Ben Amoroso; Pepe Vitor; Fr. Carding Pintac; Caloy Subang, RAH; Charles Zambo; Pempe
themed activities, friendly competi- presentation was shown as a fitting Deguilmo, PAH; Dodong Cabarillas; Dens Omay and Gerry Nebria.
tions and a wide assortment of fun farewell tribute to him for all the love

Cebu Archdiocese Holds

for the members of the CFC and its and support he gave to CFC Bataan.
Family Ministries who attended Jimmy presented to Fr. Soc a Plaque
the whole-day affair. All 11 towns of Recognition given by CFC Bataan
and the lone city of the province as a testament of the community’s
were represented by the attendees
covering all age brackets. Each
CFC chapter’s delegation arrived Archbishop-elect Soc Villegas shares a light moment
gratitude and love for the Most
Reverend Monsignor.
A Praise Parade followed right
Clergy-laity Conference
in a motorcade of cars, jeepneys and with CFC Bataan leaders. after the Mass, participated in by Archdiocese has planned for 2009-
mini-buses which were gaily decorated nana leaves. The boodle feast required all the CFC chapters and the Family
By Arnel Sacris
2010 commemorating the following
with balloons or flaglets in the respec- almost 300 pieces of fresh banana leaves Ministries. COUPLES for Christ was given the occasions:
tive CFC Cluster’s assigned colors. lined on top of the long tables, and these Rouquel Ponte gave a very inspiring honor of spearheading the first ever • 75 years of Cebu being an Archdi-
Brethren from Saysain, Bagac shared were originally scheduled for harvest anniversary message and led the entire Archdiocesan Clergy-Laity Confer- ocese (April 28, 2009-April 28, 2010)
joyfully and victoriously how they were on the day before the celebration – a assembly in praying over the five broth- ence held last August 18 at the Cebu • Year of the Priest (June 19, 2009 –
able to make it, despite being stopped Saturday since the celebration falls on a ers who form the Area Council. Grand Convention Center. June 19, 2010)
by a landslide along the way. Sunday. Brothers from the SOLD Min- Everyone agreed that the celebrations About 1,200 participants from • Year of Two Hearts (of Jesus and
The fun-filled morning was capped istry joyfully shared that they decided were a resounding success, in spite of religious organizations, covenanted Mary) for Peace Building and Lay
by a boodle feast during lunch. Every- to harvest the banana leaves on Friday the typhoons, the rains, floods and land- communities, movements; business- Participation in Social Change (June
one shared their rice, chicken and pork instead, a wise move indeed since there slides wrought by Typhoon Ondoy. men and professionals; sectoral and 19, 2009 – June 19, 2010)
civic groups; government officials In his keynote speech, His Emi-

CFC Nigeria Celebrates 10 years and heads of agencies, programs

and projects were invited to this
gathering.
nence, Ricardo J. Cardinal Vidal,
expressed his great joy at the vast
gathering and his hope that this is
CFC Nigeria held its first ever anniversary celebration on the their homes private, so it was also momentous for CFC Onit- The theme of the conference was the start of bigger gatherings in the
occasion of the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the sha when they opened their homes and hearts to 23 delegates ‘Bonding for Growth in Grace as a years to come. The cardinal led the
community in the country. The celebration was initiated by from CFC Lagos. This is a uniquely Filipino and CFC culture Body of Christ” and was held as part concelebration of the Holy Eucharist
Boy and Radel Guinto, on their first year as a missionary couple, that has now been transplanted to Africa. of the multi-celebrations that the at the end of the conference.
and James Umeh, CFC Nigeria National Council director. They More than 250 members came from Lagos, Nnewi and host
were ably supported by the generous and dedicated leaders of Onitsha where CFC Nigeria was established 10 years ago.
Onitsha, Lagos, and Nnewi. Because it was the first time, there Ricky Cuenca, Regional Coordinator of West Africa, who
were many struggles, and even the threat of cancellation, but started the first CLP in Onitsha, came for the celebration, joined
in the end, the anniversary became a momentous event of joy by Jerry Tanigue, Nigeria Country Coordinator. Ricky, in his
in celebrating God’s gift of CFC to the Nigerians. anniversary address, ceremonially passed on the CFC torch to
The Nigerians have a cultural reservation about keeping the local leaders. In his message, Jerry exhorted everyone to
persevere in the whole work of evangeliza-
tion that has to be fuelled by their uncondi-
tional commitment and self sacrifice.
Fr. Barth Ogumelu who has been the
spiritual director and chaplain of CFC On-
itsha from its birth till now was present to
reaffirm his untiring support, announcing
that he will continue to be a part of CFC in
strengthening its apostolate work around
the archdiocese of Onitsha.
The concelebrated thanksgiving Mass at
the Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity was
a joyous occasion, with the beat of drums
and African dances highlighting the com-
munity’s firm resolve to live up to their
covenant with Our Lord.
After the Mass. Fr. Barth prayed over
the new Nigeria governance team headed
Cardinal Vidal delivers the homily at the conference.
by James Umeh. The event was concluded
with the pray-over and blessing of the CFC
Boy Guinto leads the Nigerian brethren during the Mass Offertory procession. Nigeria leaders by Fr. Barth Ogumelu.
CFC Gets New Spiritual Directors
The CFC Cooperatives Federation Mutual Aid System COUPLES for Christ has a new core of spiritual directors, one for each of the
major island groups. They are: Bishop Ramon B. Villena, DD, of the diocese of
UNKNOWN to many CFC leaders the meaning of sharing and caring to become a member, Bataan) The Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya (for Luzon), Bishop Leonardo Y. Medroso, DD, of
and members, Couples for Christ in the community. For only P30.00 biggest membership is from CoFC the diocese of Tagbilaran, Bohol (for Visayas) and Bishop Honesto Ch. Pacana, SJ,
through the various Coops for Christ contribution whenever a member Quezon, followed by CoFC Iligan and DD, of the diocese of Malaybalay, Bukidnon (for Mindanao).
Primaries and the CFC Cooperatives dies, the family of a CFC member left CoFC Cebu. The goal is to double Bishop Gabriel Reyes approved their designations in his capacity as Chairman
Federation has been providing death behind gets a benefit of P50,000.00. membership and to encourage all of the CBCP’s Episcopal Commission on the Lay Apostolate (ECLA)
benefits for CFC members of the Mu- This amount is enough to provide a CFC Provincial Areas with CoFC Bishops Villena and Pacana are currently members of the ECLA while Bishop
tual Aid Benefit Program. Started by decent burial for our brother or sister primaries to become members of the Medroso was also formerly a member of this commission.
CoFC MM in February of 2002, the in Christ and to give a quick financial system and open the benefits to all The bishops, in fulfilling their role as spiritual advisers, will provide CFC spiri-
MAB has provided close to 5 Million relief to the family. This is true com- CFC members. tual direction as a private association of the lay faithful on a national basis. The
Pesos in benefits to 141 deceased munity in action. Since the establishment of the local area leadership will still continue to seek spiritual direction from the bishops
members as of Dec 2008. In 2009, the CFC Coop Federation Federated MAS in April of 2009, the and priests in their areas.
The most recent beneficiary of the brought the Mutual Aid Benefit Pro- families of nine members who have
MAB was Felimon Toquib, Jr., cluster gram closer to the provinces by feder- died, coming from CoFC Iligan, CoFC
head of CFC Bukidnon North who was ating the program itself. Now called Quezon, CoFC Camarines Norte,
killed in a motorcycle accident just a the CFC Mutual Aid System, there are and now CoFC Bukidnon, received
few weeks ago. His son, who was 18 Coops for Christ Primaries who are P50,000.00 each.
with him, is still in a critical condition. members of the system. (Quezon, Iligan We encourage all CFC members
Under the Mutual Aid System, Jun’s City, Cebu, Agusan del Norte, Iloilo, St. to join the Mutual Aid System now
family will receive P50,000.00 death Vincent Ferrer, Davao City, Camarines through the Co-ops for Christ Primary
benefit and an additional P50,000 due Norte, Camarines Sur, Cavite, Palawan, in your province. The CFC Coops
to the accidental cause. Antique, Southern Leyte, Zamboanga Federation is now under the umbrella
The Mutual Aid System and MAB Sibugay, Zamboanga City, Misamis of CFC ANCOP.
is CFC’s way of bringing to reality Oriental, Bukidnon, Rizal, and soon
Bishop Medroso Bishop Pacana Bishop Villena