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Pope charges new bishops to boldly proclaim the faith

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Building up the Body of Christ and Strengthening our Faith through the New Evangelization

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A Supplement Publication of KCFAPI and the Order of the Knights of Columbus

The Cross

CBCP agency presses for FOI bill passage

PRESIDENT Benigno Aquino IIIs muchvaunted straight path campaign would remain a slogan if the government would not pass the Freedom of Information (FOI) bill. In a statement, the social action arm of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines wondered why Aquino has not certified the FOI as an urgent measure if only to eliminate corruption in the government. According to the CBCPs National Secretariat for Social Action Justice and Peace (NASSA), the measure adheres to the prinFOI / A6

Bishop warns of digital poll fraud in 2013

By Jandel Posion

September 24 - October 7, 2012

Vol. 16 No. 20

Php 20.00

ABOUT 52 million voters will choose a new set of national and local leaders in the countrys second nationwide automated elections next year, a system that is still being questioned by various sectors.
Unresolved questions about the conduct of the first automated polls in 2010 has been giving way to mounting doubts over the integrity of the system, amid allegations of digital fraud. As the May 2013 election approaches, politicians and even technology experts still doubt the process, fearing that voting machine glitches and delays in transmission of results could lead to cheating. For the National Secretariat for Social Action, Justice and Peace (NASSA) of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines, there is better reason to be more apprehensive of possible poll fraud. Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pabillo, NASSA chairman, believes that the Commission on Elections, using the Precinct Count Optical Scan (PCOS)

machines, cannot be able to stop election fraud due to the systems lack of accuracy. The accuracy of votes is definitely not possible due to defects of the Smartmatic technology, which can lead to an electronic dagdag-bawas (vote padding and shaving) scheme, Pabillo said. The bishop is concerned that the PCOS of Smartmatic International, during a mock election at the House of Representatives last July, had failed to meet the 99.995 percent requirement in the terms of reference (TOR) of the poll body. He said the voting machines only registered 99.787 percent accuracy rate. Even more disturbing, he added, is that the auditing done by different information technology groups showed that the actual accuracy rate is only 97.215 percent or 557 errors in 20,000 vote-marks. The difference would surely affect contested positions with small margins, especially in local positions, said Pabillo. He also said that one of the flaws in the method used by Smartmatic in determining the total sum of variance, instead of reflecting the absolute value of individual variance for each candi-

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Fr. Edu Gariguez, executive secretary of the CBCPs National Secretariat for Social Action, joins various coconut farmers in marching to the Supreme Court from Caritas Manila to press the high tribunal to reverse its ruling awarding a block of shares in San Miguel Corp. to President Benigno Aquino IIIs uncle, Eduardo Cojuangco Jr., instead of giving it in favor of the coconut farmers; 20 September 2012.

Manila archdiocese prepares for Year of Faith

THE Archdiocese of Manila prepares for the upcoming celebration of the Year of Faith on October 11, declared by Pope Benedict XVI, by giving an orientation-seminar about the celebration and the new evangelization. Almost 700 priests, religious nuns from various congregations and lay people under the archdiocese attended the orientation about the celebration and the upcoming activities that they themselves will re-echo to their parishes and communities. In his talk, Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Tagle said the Year of Faith marks the 50th anniversary of Vatican II and the 20th anniversary of the catechism of Catholic Church. He also stressed that there are three points to ponder for the celebration: what the people believe in, what the people celebrate and faith that is lived. The archbishop explained that faith must be received over and over. Faith is known, celebrated and lived. Because our only weapon is faith and we want to engage the world in a rational sharing on the content of faith. The celebration of faith is something the world can benefit from, Tagle said. Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pabillo, giving a run-through of major activities of the archdiocese from October 2012 to November 2013, said that the celebration of the Year of Faith is part of the 9-year preparation of the Catholic Church for the celebration of 500 years of Christianity in the country in 2021. The celebration for the said year will deepen our knowledge of the Christian faith; appreciates the value of the Christian faith; to be committed to the faith and to live it out and to share the faith to others, Pabillo said. He added that the celebration targets Church active people, un-churched Catholics, un-committed Catholics and the non-Christians and non-Catholics. Pabillo encouraged the participants to visit the website of the archdiocese for the Year of Faith which is www. yearoffaith.ph and its facebook page www.facebook.com/yearoffaith. The archdiocesan celebration of the Year of Faith has the theme Tanging kay Kristo; Manalig Sumampalataya, and will go on from October 11, 2012 to November 24, 2013. The orientation seminar was held at the San Carlos Seminary in Guadalupe, Makati City on September 24. (Jandel Posion)

Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Tagle explains the significance of the celebration of Year of Faith to the members of the clergy, religious and laity who attended the orientation seminar at the San Carlos Seminary on Sept. 24.

Bishop prays for SCs change of National Laity Week launch inspired by Phls next saint heart on coco levy case BLESSED Pedro Calungsods the New Evangelization.
A CATHOLIC bishop called on the Supreme Court to revisit its ruling on the coco levy case as he pray for the change of heart among magistrates on the issue. Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pabillo believes that farmers are the rightful owners of the multi-billion coco levy funds and not businessman Eduardo Danding Cojuangco. What we are praying is the change of heart and change of mind of our justices in the Supreme Court. That change in their decision would depend on how their views will change, Pabillo said. The church official made the statement during his homily at a Mass with nearly 2,000 coconut farmers from Luzon at the Caritas Manila compound, September 20. One of our best weapons is prayer. Let us pray for our justices, he added. Those who are in power are seemingly doing nothing thats why we need to call their attention and wake them up. Pabillo chairs the National Secretariat for Social Action, Justice and Peace of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the PhilLevy / A6

Jandel Posion / CBCP Media

Aquinos solution to jueteng just another fiascoCruz

THE Aquino administrations alternative to curb jueteng will only be used to cover up the multi-million peso underground lottery, retired Archbishop Oscar Cruz said. Cruz said that replacing the small town lottery (STL) with another form of legal gambling supposedly to end jueteng is doomed to fail. I am certain, this will be just another fiasco, said Cruz, a vocal critic against gambling. President Benigno Aquino III on September 7 said his administration will stop STL operations and will replace it

Msgr. Dennis Villarojo, over-all chairman of the Cebu Celebration of the Canonization of Pedro Calungsod talks about the life and examples of the young Filipino martyr as an inspiration for todays laity.

life and example colored the launch of National Laity Week on September 23 as lay leaders listened on how ordinary people should answer the call for new evangelization. According to Laiko National President Atty. Aurora Santiago, Calungsod, together with San Lorenzo Ruiz, gives Filipinos a moving example of what it means to serve as a lay person. Whatever God has asked him to do, he will obey, Atty. Santiago said in an interview. Some 200 lay leaders, mostly from the Archdiocese of Cebu and the Visayas, learned how Calungsods example can be lived out today through Msgr. Dennis Villarojo, P.C.s talk on Blessed Pedro Calungsod and

Msgr. Villarojo is the Team Moderator of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Parish and Over-all Chairman of the Cebu Celebration of the Canonization of Pedro Calungsod. A response from the laity was channeled through Dr. Amelita Dayrit-Go, Laiko vice-president for Luzon who gave a reaction to the talk. On the local level, Fe Barino, Archdiocesan Council of the Laity Committee on Education chairman, also gave a response. Bishop Jesse Mercado was also present to give the keynote address on the theme Building up the Body of Christ and Strengthening Our Faith through New Evangelization. The event was held at the Mariners Court in Cebu City. (Nirvaana Ella Delacruz)

Statement of Abp. Jose Palma on the ivory issue

Illustration by Bladimer Usi

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LET it be made clear that the Church supports the ban on ivory (PD, 1979 and CITES, 1990) as it is consistent with her doctrine on stewardship of creation. (On a personal note, may I point out my being a co-signatory on PETAs Free Mali movement.) The Church does not condone ivory smuggling or other illegal activities, although in the past, ivory was one of the materials used in the adornment of litur-

gical worship. While these ivory artefacts crafted long before the ban are considered the cultural heritage of the Church, in no way does she encourage the use of ivory for new implements. The Church is also aware of the gravity of the crime of pederasty. In recent pronouncements, the Church has stated her regret for the failure to address the problem in a more decisive and effective

Photo Courtesy of Maribel Descallar

way. Cultural practices have contributed to the misunderstanding of the problem. The principles stated above should guide us in resolving the matter concerning the alleged involvement of Msgr. Cristobal Garcia in the illegal ivory trade, always bearing in mind the right of the person concerned for a fair and just hearing. The account given by National Geographic
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Roi Lagarde / CBCP Media

World News Charity reports increase in poverty, 12 Muslim artists from Kosovo give Benedict XVI a painting inequality in Spain
September 24 - October 7, 2012

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CBCP Monitor
Vol. 16 No. 20

MADRID, Spain, Sept. 21, 2012 Catholic charity Caritas chapter in Spain has issued a new report showing that poverty, inequality and social injustice are on the rise in the European country. The findings were presented on Sept. 20 in Madrid by the secretary general of Caritas, Sebastian Mora, and the coordinator of the study team, Francisco Lorenzo. Caritas says that since the economic crisis began in Spain, the number of people who have received assistance from the agency has risen sharply from 370,251 people in 2007 to 1,015, 267 in 2011an increase of almost 174 percent. The report says the main causes of the increase include

growing unemployment, which drastically reduces the economic opportunities families have, and cutbacks in entitlement programs. Between 2007 and 2011, Caritas has seen the biggest increase in requests for food assistance, followed by requests for clothing and house aid. In 2011 the agency spent over $42 million in aid for those in need. Caritas Spain also provides aid to one-third of illegal immigrants in the country. Half of those who request for aid from the agency are immigrants, and approximately 130,000 of them are in irregular situations. Considering that some studies estimate there are nearly 500,000 illegal immigrants in Spain, Cari-

tas reports that it is providing aid to one-third of the total. Mora said that since a new law went into effect on Sept. 1 denying health care to illegal immigrants, Caritas has seen a greater presence of persons with this profile asking for health care

assistance at parishes. He called it a grave social injustice that immigrants in Spain have to live in fear. The government did not weigh the measure appropriately, Mora said, and this has caused great uncertainty. (CNA)

Names of Synod Fathers released by the Holy See

VATICAN City, Sept. 18, 2012Here is the list of Synod Fathers that Pope Benedict XVI has named for the upcoming XIII Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops which will take place from October 7-28 on the theme of The New Evangelization for the Transmission of the Christian Faith. Cardinals: Cardinal Angelo Sodano, dean of the College of Cardinals. Cardinal Joachim Meisner, archbishop of Cologne, Germany. Cardinal Vinko Puljic, archbishop of Vrhbosna-Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Cardinal Polycarp Pengo, archbishop of Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania and president of SECAM/SCEAM (Symposium of the Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar). Cardinal Christoph Schonborn O.P., archbishop of Vienna, Austria. Cardinal George Pell, archbishop of Sydney, Australia. Cardinal Josip Bozanic, archbishop of Zagreb, Croatia. Cardinal Peter Erdo, archbishop of Esztergom-Budapest, Hungary and president of CCEE (Council of European Episcopal Conferences). Cardinal Agostino Vallini, His Holiness' vicar general for the diocese of Rome. Cardinal Lluis Martinez Sistach, archbishop of Barcelona, Spain. Cardinal Andre Vingt-Trois, archbishop of Paris, France. Cardinal Oswald Gracias, archbishop of Bombay, India and secretary general of FABC (Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences). Archbishops: Patriarch Francesco Moraglia of Venice, Italy. Archbishop John Olorunfemi Onaiyekan of Abuja, Nigeria. Archbishop Hector Ruben Aguer of La Plata, Argentina. Archbishop Antonio Arregui Yarza of Guayaquil, Ecuador, president of the Ecuadorian Episcopal Conference. Archbishop John Atcherley Dew of Wellington, New Zealand, president of FCBCO (Federation of Catholic Bishops' Conferences of Oceania). Archbishop Jose Octavio Ruiz Arenas, secretary of the Pontifical Council for Promoting New Evangelization. Archbishop Jose Horacio Gomez of Los Angeles, U.S.A. Archbishop Carlos Aguiar Retes of Tlalnepantla, president of CELAM (Latin American Episcopal Council). Archbishop Bernard Longley of Birmingham, England. Archbishop Ricardo Antonio Tobon Restrepo of Medellin, Colombia. Archbishop Luis Antonio G. Tagle of Manila, Philippines. Archbishop Filippo Santoro of Taranto, Italy. Bishops: Bishop Javier Echevarria Rodriguez, prelate of the Personal Prelature of Opus Dei. Bishop Dominique Rey of Frejus-Toulon, France. Bishop Menghisteab Tesfamariam M.C.C.J., eparch of Asmara, Eritrea. Bishop Benedito Beni dos Santos of Lorena, Brazil. Bishop Santiago Jaime Silva Retamales, auxiliary of Valparaiso, Chile and secretary general of CELAM. Bishop Luigi Negri of San Marino-Montefeltro, Italy. Bishop Alberto Francisco Sanguinetti Montero of Canelones, Uruguay. Bishop Enrico Dal Covolo S.D.B., rector of the Pontifical Lateran University in Rome. Reverend Fathers: Fr. Julian Carron, president of the Fraternity of Communion and Liberation. Fr. Renato Salvatore M.I., superior general of the Clerks Regular Ministers to the Sick (Camillians). Fr. Heinrich Walter, superior general of the Schoenstatt Fathers. Fr. Jose Panthaplamthottiyil C.M.I., prior general of the Carmelites of Mary Immaculate. (Zenit)

VATICAN City, Sept. 21, 2012 At the end of the Holy Father's General Audience on Wednesday, 12 young artists of the Muslim faith from Kosovo, gave Benedict XVI a painting and a message for the Holy Fathers official collaborators. The painting, titled Universal Face, was created by Fatos Kabashi. The painting also contained a message to the Pope from the 12 artists saying, With affection, to his Holiness Benedict XVI. The 12 Kosovar artists are in Rome as authors of paintings in a collective exhibition of the Libreria Editrice Vaticana. The exhibition commemorates the 15th anniversary of the death of Mother Teresa of Calcutta. In a message sent to the organizers and authors of the exhibition, Michael L. Giffoni, the first Italian ambassador in Kosovo, wrote: In presenting an exhibition of artists from Kosovo

inspired in the extraordinary figure of Blessed Mother Teresa, one cannot but begin with a few, precise, touching and vibrant verses: I am like a little pencil in the hands of God, nothing else. It is He who thinks. It is He who writes. The pencil has nothing to do with all this. The pencil must only be able to be used. Enclosed in these few words, Giffoni continued, is an exemplary life, a model of perfection and absolute dedication at the service of the Lord to help those in need [] Thinking of this teaching and trying to put it into practice [], Im pleased to think that at a certain point in the painting of one of the authors, entitled Flight from Reality, each one of us can see in the compact blue background a small luminous point: its the light of Mother Teresa, her example of life for the Lord and for all of you, the ambassador concluded. (Zenit)

www.mole.my

Kirkuk, young Christians hold day of fasting for peace after a bomb attack on cathedral
KIRKUK, Iraq, Sept. 22, 2012 At least 150 young people, joined by other faithful, spent today in prayer and fasting to overcome violence, after a bomb exploded in front of the Chaldean cathedral. On Sunday, September 16, a bomb hidden in a bag exploded at 20.45 at the door of the Cathedral of Kirkuk, while Benedict XVI concluded his visit to Lebanon. The Chaldean archbishop, Msgr. Louis Sako, was in Beirut to receive from the pope's hands the apostolic exhortation Ecclesia in Medio Oriente. The Pope's visit to Lebanon coincided with widespread tension in the Islamic world, resulting from an anti-Islam film, deemed blasphemous against Muhammad. The explosion in front of the Chaldean cathedral caused only material damage. Since September 21 was appointed an International Day of Peace, a group of young people launched day of fasting on Saturday, a holiday in Iraq, asking for peace in the city of Kirkuk and across the country. The day also had moments of prayer. Speaking to young people, the archbishop said the Church in Iraq, is, according to the words of St Paul: ... afflicted, but not crushed (2 Cor 4:8). And he praised the idea of combining prayer and fasting, according to the teaching of the Gospel, in which Jesus says that some demons cannot be driven out except by prayer and fasting (cf. Matthew 17:20). The 150 young people, together with other believers ended the day by participating in the Eucharist together. (AsiaNews)

Vatican Briefing
1st hearing scheduled for Vatileaks suspects

Credo Domine wristbands commissioned for Year of Faith

ROME, Sept. 21, 2012The forthcoming Year of Faith, said Cardinal Napier of South Africa, is meant to remind the faithful that each and every one of them is called to proclaim the Gospel anew by living and professing our faith. As the Church prepares to begin the Year of Faith in just about three weeks time, Cardinal Wilfrid Napier of the Archdiocese of Durban, South Africa wrote a letter to encourage parishes to take this as an opportunity to engage in evangelization and help bring about a renewal of the faith. In the apostolic letter Porta Fidei, Pope Benedict XVI announces the year of faith, which will begin on October 11, 2012. The Holy Father speaks about the need to rediscover the journey of faith, calling for the whole Church to 50th anniversary of the opening of the Second Vatican Council. For this reason, the Holy Father called for a General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops which will explore the theme: The New Evangelization for the transmission of the Christian Faith. This is a timely reminder, writes Cardinal Napier, that each of us is called to use this time of spiritual grace to proclaim the Gospel anew by living and professing our faith in our parishes, our homes, our families, our religious communities, our schools and even our workplaces. Pope Benedict also calls on the faithful to profess the Creed publicly during this Year of Faith. In an initiative for the Year of Faith, Cardinal Napier commissioned Father Desmond Royappen to design a wristband which displays the ancient Christian symbol of a fish along with the words: Credo DomineI Believe. These wristbands will be accompanied by a card upon which is written a prayer for the Year of Faith on one side, with a statement of commitment on the other, all translated into English, Afrikaans, Zulu, Sotho, Xhosa, Setswana, Portuguese, French and Italian. Cardinal Napier said that the wristbands are a wonderful way of reminding us to keep our commitment to our faith, as well as to identify ourselves as Catholic who have made a special pledge to be faithful during this Year of Faith. Let us band together, he concludes, to celebrate the Year of Faith as one big Catholic family. (Zenit)

The trial for both suspects involved in the recent Vatican document leaks scandal has been scheduled for the end of September. In a communiqu released Sept. 17 by the Vatican press office, Giuseppe della Torre, president of the Tribunal of Vatican City State, issued a decree stating that the first hearing of the trial of Paolo Gabriele and Claudio Sciarpelletti will take place on the morning of Sept. 29. The hearing will take place in the audience hall of the Tribunal of Vatican City State. The parties concerned have been notified of the decree, the statement read. (Zenit)
Pontiff appeals for peace in Syria

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Cardinal Napier of South Africa

Diocese publishes open letter on social policy

HONG KONG, Hong Kong, Sept. 21, 2012The Hong Kong Catholic Diocese today published an open statement in two local newspapers urging the newly elected government and legislative council to implement more just and family-friendly policies. The statement, which appeared in Chinese and English language daily newspapers, called on the government to reassess policies on population rise, housing, medical care, education and welfare for Hong Kong residents. Among the primary concerns raised by the Church was growing poverty. The statement noted that there are currently more than one million people in Hong Kong living below the poverty linemost of them elderly residents. To eliminate the widening rich-poor disparity, the statement called for reforming land and housing policies to assist local citizens in purchasing residential flats and introducing an income subsidy scheme for people who have jobs but live in poverty and do not get social security assistance. The diocese advised the government to work with religious groups and other nongovernment organizations to build social networks and social capital to achieve improvements to livelihoods. Father Dominic Chan, the dioceses vicar

seek friendship with Jesus Christ, who is the one who gives us the abundance of life. [The Pope] reminds us to be light that cannot be hidden, as well as witnesses of faith who are not afraid. Cardinal Napier notes that the Year of Faith coincides with the

Benedict XVI made a strong appeal for peace in Syria and the Middle East Sept. 16, just as he entrusted to the people of the region his own reflections on the necessary steps to bring an end to the conflicts. You know all too well the tragedy of the conflicts and the violence which generates so much suffering, he said. The Holy Father said that those who wish to build peace must cease to see in the other an evil to be eliminated. (Zenit)
Italian publisher to have Jesus of Nazareth Vol. III out by Christmas

general, told ucanews.com that the statement targeted the new government and all residents of Hong Kong. Social matters are also Church matters, so we have to express our views in a concrete way, he said. We hope to get a positive response from the government so that the grassroots can enjoy a more secure life. The diocese said the open letter was a new initiative to make public its position on government policies through secular media. A similar advertisement addressing universal suffrage was published in secular newspapers in February. (UCAN)

The Vatican Publishing House announced on Sept. 21 that it has made an agreement with the Italian publisher Rizzoli for the third and final volume of Benedict XVIs book on Jesus. This last portion of the work is expected in Italy by Christmas. It was announced last month that the Pope had completed Volume 3, on the infancy of Jesus. The Vatican Publishing House gives Rizzoli the mandate to sell the rights to Volume 3 throughout the world. In Italy, the book will be published as a joint edition of the Vatican Publishing House and Rizzoli. (Zenit)
Internatl conference examines meaning of marital union

Cardinal Nguyen Van Thuan, a good citizen and a noble pastor, remembered in Vietnam
HO CHI MINH City, Sept. 21, 2012A Mass concelebrated by seven priests, with the participation of more than two thousand faithful in the Cathedral in Ho Chi Minh City on the 10th anniversary of the death of Cardinal FX. Nguyen Van Thuan, was also attended by some relatives of the late cardinal. Father Joseph, of the cathedral of Notre Dame, recalled the cardinal who was head of the archdiocese of Saigon, even in difficult situations, though he was not physically close to the faithful and the priests of the archdiocese, he always cared for our souls. Anyone who came into contact with him has been forever changed in the way they live. Father Dominic Trng Kim Hng, who studied under the Cardinal at the major seminary Xuan Bich from 1964 to 1965 described how the cardinal wanted to improve the lives of all. Although imprisoned for 13 years by the communist government he never blamed anyone, he hated no one and had no vindictive feelings towards our brothers. His behavior profoundly impressed those who watched him and thanks to his loving care, some Communist officials have been baptized and have become good Catholics and good citizens. Father Joseph said that the cardinal's motto was Gaudium et Spes, joy and hope. It is also the name of the Vatican II constitution, in which the Church clearly states that it does not see the world as hostile, dark, fearful, and neither excludes nor condemns it, but in which the Church opens to dialogue with all and in all social situations. Cardinal Van Thuan said that dialogue means meeting and understanding one another, creating a path of hope and joy of life. That is why he chose the motto Joy and Hope, because he was always able to see hope. Through dialogue, Christ helps us to hear the voice of God. The relatives of the cardinal described his good character: he was simple, sociable, interested in people and did not hate anyone. A Communist official said that he was a living saint. He taught us that when you go to church, pray, close your eyes and listen to the Word of God. The Cardinal - many young people told AsiaNews - was a holy person, a noble and virtuous pastor. (AsiaNews)

Scholars at a two-day conference in Rome explored the beauty of Gods plan for the marital union and the importance of this union for individuals and society as a whole. The goal of the conference is to examine, to analyze what the conjugal union really is, said Father Jose Granados, of the Pontifical John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and Family, which organized the conference at the request of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. Held September 20-21, the international colloquium focused on The Language of the Body and the Conjugal Union. It featured experts in the fields of psychology, sociology, philosophy, theology and scripture, and examined different aspects of the conjugal union and its profound importance. (CNA)
Catholic organization launches online multimedia portal

Catholic media network Aleteia.org has launched a new website to present a collection of the best print and multimedia content from Catholic organizations across the globe. Aleteia. org, which is a project of the Foundation for Evangelization through the Media, aims to promote a global conversation on faith, life and society for all truth-seekers through the Internet. Launching in English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, Italian and Arabic, Aleteia is just one part of the foundations response to the Popes call to bring the New Evangelization into the digital world. The website will act as a platform for all things Catholic, featuring print, video, radio and news from partners worldwide. (CNA)

CBCP Monitor
Vol. 16 No. 20
September 24 - October 7, 2012

Pope charges new bishops to boldly proclaim the faith

VATICAN City, Sept. 20, 2012Pope Benedict called on a group of newlyconsecrated bishops to boldly present the Gospel to everyone, so that they encounter Christ and the faith becomes stronger around the world. In keeping with Jesus command to the apostles, Pope Benedict told the bishops that he is asking them to boldly invite the people from every walk of life to an encounter with Christ and to render more solid the faith. Evangelization, in fact, is not the work of some specialists, but of the entire People of God, under the guidance of the Pastors, he added. His comments were made the morning of Sept. 20, at a conference organized by the Vaticans Congregation for Bishops. Each year, new bishops who were appointed in the past 12 months make a pilgrimage to Rome and attend a conference to learn about their new role as shepherds. The pilgrimage is meant to help them to experience communication and communion with their brothers in the episcopate and to strengthen their ties to the Pope. Pope Benedict focused on the New Evangelization for much of his talk. In opening his statement he referenced the upcoming Year of Faith and General Synod on the New Evangelization, as well as the 50th anniversary of the Second Vatican Council. These events are opportunities for the bishops to strengthen the faith of which they are teachers and heralds, he said. Interestingly, Pope Benedict pointed to Vatican II as the precise beginning of the New Evangelization, which aims to reintroduce the faith to historically Christian countries and societies. He quoted Blessed Pope John XXIII at the opening of the council, who said, it is necessary that this certain and unchangeable doctrine, which must be faithfully respected, be both deepened and presented in a way that meets the needs of our time. While bishops are the shepherds and leaders in their dioceses, Pope Benedict said, all of their faithful are called to evangelize. Each believer, in and with the ecclesial community should feel responsible for announcing and witnessing to the Gospel. The bishops were called upon to form their people in doctrine, spirituality and holiness so that when they evangelize, their testimony is more credible. The Pope also urged the bishops to be mindful of those who do not yet have the faith, being ready to give reason for their hope to those who are in search of faith or the ultimate meaning of life. He also stressed the importance of the faith being properly adapted to each culture it encounters, so that it is explained in a way that is systematic and organic and responds to the questions posed by our globalized and technological world. In regards to their priests, Pope Benedict exhorted the bishops to act as loving fathers to them by supporting, encouraging and forgiving them. He reminded the bishops that they must also care particularly for the poor and suffering, and must be first of all servants of God. The Bishop, the first witness of faith accompanies the journey of be- Pope Benedict XVI makes his way through St. Peters Basilica in lievers offering the July 2012. example of a life lived in trusting in God. faith, must live in the presence of the He, therefore, in order to be an Lord, as a man of God, the Pope said. authoritative teacher and herald of the (CNA/EWTN News)

News Features

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Christians, Muslims must give joint witness for peace, pope says Vatican synod to examine when divided
VATICAN City, Sept. 19, 2012Pope Benedict XVI said his three-day trip to Lebanon convinced him that now is the time for Christians and Muslims to bear witness together against violence and in favor of dialogue and peace. In Lebanon, he said, Muslims welcomed me with great respect, and their presence at each of his public events gave me an opportunity to launch a message of dialogue and cooperation between Christianity and Islam. I believe the time has come to give a sincere and decisive witness together against divisions, against violence and against war, the pope said Sept. 19 at his weekly general audience. Reviewing his Sept. 14-16 trip to Lebanon, the pope told an estimated 7,000 people gathered in the Vatican audience hall that the relaxed and constructive climate of meetings with Lebanese religious leaders, government officials and crowds made up of Christians and Muslims was a strong sign of hope for the future of humanity. The general audience opened with the reading in six languages of a passage from the Gospel of St. John: My peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Pope Benedict said that despite the current tensions in the Middle East, particularly because of the continued fighting in Syria, he was strongly committed to making the trip because I was convinced that a father must be alongside his children when they face serious problems. I was motivated by a deep desire to proclaim the peace the Lord left his disciples. Lebanon's tradition of different religions not only coexisting in peace but working together for the good of the country must be treasured, strengthened and seen as an example for the whole region, the pope said. In the face of the dramas and sufferings that continue in the Middle East, he said he wanted to show his support for the legitimate aspirations of the region's people. I am thinking in particular of the terrible conflict tormenting Syria and causing thousands of deaths and a

Christians can preach together

VATICAN City, Sept. 20, 2012The potential power, but also the limits, of an ecumenical proclamation of the Gospel and defense of Gospel values is likely to be a key topic during October's world Synod of Bishops on the new evangelization. The ecumenical focus will be particularly sharp Oct. 10 whenat the personal invitation of Pope Benedict XVIAnglican Archbishop Rowan Williams of Canterbury will deliver a major address to synod members. While popes have long invited other Christians to be fraternal delegates and make brief speeches at the synods, Pope Benedict has begun a tradition of inviting important religious leaders to deliver a major address. In 2008, Orthodox Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople and Chief Rabbi Shear-Yashuv Cohen of Haifa, Israel, addressed the Synod of Bishops on the Bible. Another rabbi and two Muslim leaders gave speeches at the 2010 special synod on the Middle East. Bishop Brian Farrell, secretary of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, said the invitations demonstrate the pope's recognition that the challenges facing religious belief itself and church life are common no church, no religion is an islandand we need one another and can learn from one another. In addition, he said, ecumenical and interreligious cooperation shows the world that we are together in promoting the values of belief and the moralethical values that we stand by. Ecumenical cooperation is crucial when trying to transmit the faith in the modern world and to re-propose Christianity in areas, especially Europe and North America, which had a Christian tradition, but are becoming increasingly secularized. The mission that the Lord entrusted to the Apostles, to preach the Gospel to the ends of the earth, has not been fulfilled mostly because of divisions among his followers, Bishop Farrell said. The beginnings of the modern ecumenical movement usually are traced to a 1910 conference of missionaries who had the experience of being seen as preaching against each other instead of preaching Christ, he said. The missionaries recognized the scandal they were causing as they exported their divisions to Asia, Africa and other parts of the world. The missionaries saw their work being undermined by their own divisions, which they increasingly acknowledged were violations of the will of Jesus that his followers be one, the bishop said.

Pope Benedict XVI greets pilgrims as he arrives to lead his general audience in Paul VI hall at the Vatican Sept. 19.

flood of refugees fleeing in a desperate search for safety and a future. At a general audience attended by dozens of groups of high school and university students from around the world, Pope Benedict said he was especially touched by the festive atmosphere that marked his meeting Sept. 15 with young people from Lebanon and surrounding countries. Watching young Christians and Muslims celebrat-

ing together in great harmony, I urged them to build together the future of Lebanon and the Middle East, and to oppose together violence and war. Agreement and reconciliation must be stronger than the temptations of death. The pope said he returned to Rome convinced that sincere faith and a desire to do God's will can and must be the basis for social harmony because faith in God gives birth to true peace. (CNS)

Anti-mining groups storm intl mining conference

MANILA, Sept. 18, 2012Various environmental groups stormed Sofitel Hotel in Pasay City this morning, at the opening of the International Mining Conference organized by the Chamber of Mines in protest of the issuance of the Environmental Compliance Certificate for the Tampakan Mining Project. About 500 protesters from environmental organization and human rights advocates asserted that the government should never have issued the ECC to the Sagittarius Mines Inc. (SMI) and Xstrata, owners of the Tampakan Mining Project because it is a disaster waiting to happen. The groups said that the protest is just a part of their one week actions to condemn mining in the country that according to them had put the countrys future in a bad shape. Disaster to happen In a press forum, Jaybee Garganera of the Alyansa Tigil Mina (ATM) said that Tampakan is a disaster that is waiting to happen because it lies above a number of fault lines, which alone is enough to reject the project given its risks to communities and indigenous peoples. The past was Marcopper, now is Philex, maybe Tampakan will be next. History will tell us even if mining companies will promise that their mining project will be the best, they cannot face the wrath of nature, he said. In the past, Rapu-Rapu was showcased as the flagship but spilled, currently Philex is the poster boy but is experiencing tailing spill, then three years from now Tampakan is going to be the flagship mining project. It will become a disaster that is waiting to happen, he added. The group emphasized that the country cannot afford another mining tragedy to happen. Support In support of the anti-mining solidarity week, the Haribon Foundation also issued a press release stressing on the adverse effect of mining on the environment. Mining has threatened and destroyed some of the very sources of life in the country, fragile ecosystems located in an archipelago, the inner workings of which we barely understand and yet we get so much from in terms of ecological services, including water, fresh air, protection from natural hazards, and capture and storage of greenhouse gases, they said. The foundation pointed out that despite the claims of mining industry that there is life in mining, what is really seen is the death of people and the environment. Haribon expressed its full support for the call to Stop the greed, no to large scale mining and Stop the destruction, increase the budget for protection. The group also reiterated the call to repeal the Mining Act of 1995 through the passage of an Alternative Minerals Management Bill or Philippine Mineral Resources Act of 2012. (Jandel Posion)

NASSA probes tailing pond leaks

MANILA, Sept. 18, 2012 The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP)-National Secretariat for Social Action (NASSA) together with the Climate Change Congress of the Philippines (CCCP) organized an independent probe to gather information on the impact of mine leaks in mining operations of Philex Mining Corporation in Benguet province last Monday. In the regular press briefing in Intramuros today, NASSAs Fr. Edu Gariguez informed reporters that the group gathered data and information from the communities affected by the Tailings Pond 3 (TP3) leaks in the companys mining operation in Benguet which was discharged into the Balog River last August 1, followed by three more major occurrence of tailings leaks up to August 30. The real issue here is the non-toxicity of the tailing spill. But their operation was halted because of the high rating of their Total Suspended Solids (TSS) from the allowable standard of 50 milligram per liter where the water can be declared as clean. But their TSS level in that station reached 89,710 as compared to the 50 milligrams allowed, thats so big. And the other station reached 4,704 milligrams per liter, Gariguez said. In a press release, Itogon Mayor Oscar Camantiles said that tailing leaks have affected the livelihood of more than 34 families living downstream of the Agno River in the villages of Pangbasan, Pao and Daynet. The group learned from the local government that Philex Mines has not complied with safety standards for the building and operation of TP3 and the illegal construction/excavation of spillways at dams 2 and 3. Other issue surfaced such as the non-completion of the mining company for its operation without a business permit from the Itogon municipality and for not paying its accumulated tax obligations. It was also learned that the company attempted to plug the leak by using bulldozers and other heavy equipments but it failed to contain the leakage. Gariguez furthered that the results of the fact finding mission with recommendation on how to address the problem will soon be released to the public. The fact finding mission were composed of the CBCP-NASSA, CCCP, Philippine Miserior Partnership Inc. (PMPI), Peace Foundation, Integrated Rural Development Foundation, Katribu Indigenous Peoples Partylist, and Cordillera Peoples Alliance. Meanwhile, the Association of Major Religious Superior of the Philippines (AMRSP) through its executive secretary also expressed its stand against mining. Fr. Marlon Lacal, O. Carm. said that AMRSP is currently supporting the anti-mining campaign and rejects Executive Order 79. Lacal also said that they support, together with the bishops, the enactment of House Bill 4315 or the peoples mining bill. The group is pressing for an end to the militarization in mining areas, even as it denounces the destruction of the environment caused by big companies and mining companies in the country. (Jandel Posion)

Meanwhile, among some Catholics in the early 1900s, there were the beginnings of a spiritual interest in the idea of prayer for Christian unity, he said, but the quantum leap in the Catholic Church's commitment to ecumenism came with the 1962-65 Second Vatican Council. Bishop Farrell said the change in the church's attitude reflected an education of the bishops at the council, because most of the bishops came with the kind of theology that considered our Protestant brothers and sisters, and the Orthodox to a certain degree, as just outside the church. Through discussions and studies at the council, he said, the bishops gained a new perspective: We have a common faith in Jesus Christ, we have a common baptism, and this is already a huge element of real communion in the faith. The ecumenical task, embraced by the Catholic Church, involves prayer and dialogue to move that communion from imperfect to perfect, he said. Until the process is complete, however, there will be some limits to the possibilities for ecumenical cooperation in evangelization, because Catholics, Orthodox, Anglicans and other mainline Christians aren't just inviting people to profess faith in Jesus Christ, but to live that faith in his body, the church. There is a kind of superficial ecumenism that says, it doesn't matter what church you belong to, Bishop Farrell said, but the Catholic Church and most of its dialogue partners reject that view. Because Christians aren't passing on some Gospel of their own making, but a faith they have received, sharing one's faith means sharing one's belonging to a particular community that has given me that faith. It means sharing the conviction, in conscience, that the Gospel comes to me in its fullness in this particular community, the bishop said. The role of the church and, in fact, the definition of what it means to be fully church is at the heart of the ongoing, sometimes difficult, theological ecumenical dialogues, he said. For the Catholic Church, Bishop Farrell said, We can't work for a common minimum denominator; nor can we say, let's keep our differences and just accept one another as we are. We have to aim at whatever is required for the fullness of incorporation into Christ and into the one church he founded. But where is that church? he said. That is the question that will trouble us until Christian disunity becomes Christian unity: not uniformity, but true, grace-filled communion in faith and Christian living. (CNS)

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Sottos faux pas not plagiarism lawyer

MAKATI City, Sept. 19, 2012After the long-drawn out hullabaloo over Sen. Vicente Sotto IIIs apparent lifting of entire passages from several sources for a speech, an Ateneo lawyer categorically said that what Sotto did is not plagiarism after all. Political, not academic Ateneo de Manila Law School professor Atty. Jemy Gatdula cited the nature of Sottos speech, which was political and not academic; and the lack of intent on Sottos part to deceive. History has been replete with people making oratorical speeches, political speeches wherein they actually borrow from certain sources without necessarily attributing it, he explained. Atty. Gatdula, who specializes in economic and international law, mentioned how John F. Kennedys most iconic sound biteAsk not what your country can do for you, but rather what you can do for your countrywas not even originally his. Depending on the source, the original quote belonged to Gen. Omar Bradley whom Kennedy never gave credit to. A more recent example is US President Barack Obama who quoted his friend in a speech but did not attribute it. Intent to deceive According to Atty. Gatdula, what further separates Sottos case from outright intellectual dishonesty, like in the case of Defence Minister Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg and vice president of the European Parliament Silvana KochMehrin, who allegedly plagiarized passages on their theses, is the intent to deceive and the academic nature of the work in question. Guttenberg and Koch-Mehrin both resigned over the allegations last year. Merriam-Webster defines plagiarism as stealing and passing off (the ideas or words of another) as ones own. This qualifier further deflates the plagiarism issue, because, according to Atty. Gatdula, at the beginning of Sottos turno en contra on the RH Bill, the senator mentioned none of what he will be talking about is original and that all his points come from various sources. While attribution was done sloppily, there was no intent on Sottos part to pass off other peoples work as his own, which is a determining factor in plagiarism. It could be a lapse of memory, but thats certainly not an act of dishonesty, Atty. Gatdula explained. (Nirvaana Ella Delacruz)

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A4
EDITORIAL

Opinion

CBCP Monitor
September 24 - October 7, 2012

Vol. 16 No. 20

Challenges of the new evangelization

EVANGELIZATION, of course, is a continuing concern of the Church. Its a mission inherent in her very nature, since the Church is a pilgrim Church. The Church is in some kind of a travel, a dynamic process that involves forming people in all their variety of conditions to be the People of God, the family of God, in perfect communion of life and love with God and among ourselves. Thats the goal. It involves the living transmission of the entire faith, and not just parts of it, and everything else that goes into the making of a breathing and working Christian life. Yes, it entails inculcating the doctrine and truths of faith in an organic way. But to be sure, evangelization is not just an intellectual affair carried out simply by giving classes, receiving talks, listening to sermons, etc. Still the intellectual aspect of evangelization is, of course, very significant. Those involved in itfirst the clergy and then the consecrated, religious as well as other committed lay peoplereally have to master the doctrine of the faith in such a way that they have it at their fingertips and able to explain it well anytime to anyone. This is still a big challenge. For it is observably true that many priests are not yet well-formed in terms of doctrinal grounding. Not only are there many still in their amateur stage and very sophomoric in their preaching. There are quite a number who are confused if not mistaken in some areas. This is not to mention the many inconsistencies in their life and ministry that often give rise to scandals that turn off people en masse. It might be good to look into the formation given in seminaries and to also see if the continuing formation for priests and others is truly working. The usual problem here is that the formation is in many instances shallow, irregular, and incomplete. Its not integral. If its fiery in one part, its cold as dead in the others. Thus, one can see a priest who is very active in social concerns but is rather asinine in spirituality. Or vice-versa. The formation of priests and other evangelizers is one challenge in the new evangelization. The other and bigger challenge is how to deal with a people who have become increasingly secularized and Godless. There are already many analyses made on this phenomenon. Big things, like the scourge of relativism, are posed as one major cause. It seems many people are now stuck with a very harmful attitude of believing in themselves more than in a superior being. And this has led to a fragmented view of things that has become the new normal nowadays. Each one can be on his own, or some consensus can be made, but going to God is now largely considered pass. Its now man, not God, who holds the key to reality, to what is true and false, good and evil. This is now the new ethos, the new spirit of the world that challenges the evangelizers.

Community of Dialogue Vision of Church in Vatican II

POPE Paul VI guided the Church during the final three sessions of the Second Vatican Council (1963-1965). In his first encyclical Ecclesiam Suam (1964), the pope proposed an image of the Church that became concretized in the Council documents. He noted that the spirit and practice of dialogue should characterize all levels and activities of the Church today. The pope envisioned this dialogue as a series of four concentric circles. The central circle concerns all Catholics and the need for dialogue within the Church itself. A second wider circle embraces all Christians (the task of ecumenism). A third circle of dialogue concerns all religious people (commitment to interreligious dialogue). The fourth and widest circle embraces all humanity. This brief article reflects on circles two, three, and four. Ecumenism. Vatican II in its decree on ecumenism, Unitatis Redintegratio, expressed reverence for other Christian Churches, noted the salvific importance they have, and acknowledged that they possess true elements of the Church of Christ. The Council said that people of both sides were to blame (UR 3) for the sin of disunity in Christs body. Genuine ecumenism requires fidelity to our beliefs coupled with an appreciation of the true values and faith found in other Christian bodies. Unfortunately, Catholics have often been hostile and defensive toward other Christian Churches, especially toward Protestants. Both sides frequently forgot what united them as Christians and only focused on divisions. Interreligious Dialogue. A

Fr. James H. Kroeger, MM

Living Mission
Vatican II Perspectives
short but very significant Vatican II document is Nostra Aetate, the declaration on other religions. It speaks about how Catholics should relate to the followers of other living faiths (e.g. Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism). The Catholic Church rejects nothing that is true and holy in these religions. The Church, therefore, exhorts her sons and daughters, that through dialogue and collaboration with the followers of other religions, they recognize, preserve and promote the good things, spiritual and moral, as well as the socio-cultural values found among these people (NA 2). This interreligious dialogue recognizes truth and goodness in other faiths; yet, Catholics do not compromise their own beliefs. The Church seeks for a mature balance in her relations with other believers. Church-World Dialogue. The Council asserted that the Church must be genuinely involved with secular society. The motive for social involvement is eloquently and poetically expressed in the opening sentence of Gaudium et Spes (The Church in the Modern World): The joys and hopes, the griefs and anxieties of people of this age, especially those who are poor or in any way afflicted, these are the joys and hopes, the griefs and anxieties of the followers of Christ (GS 1). In short, we all are brothers and sisters in this world. Since the Council, Church involvement in social questions has grown, spurred by papal social teaching documents such as The Progress of Peoples (Paul VI, 1967), Sollicitudo Rei Socialis [On Social Concern] (John Paul II, 1987), and Caritas in Veritate [Integral Human Development] (Benedict XVI, 2009).

The competence and role of the Church in political matters

THE general principles that govern the disciple-communitys intervention in the political order are the following: a) but at all times and in all the places the Church should have true freedom to preach the faith, to proclaim its teachings about society, to carry out its task among men without hindrance, and to pass moral judgments even in matters relating to politics, whenever the fundamental rights of man or the salvation of souls require, (Gaudium et Spes, 76); b) In order to achieve their task directed to the Christian animation of the temporal order, in the sense of serving persons and society, the lay faithful are never to relinquish their participation in public life, that is, in the many different economic, social, legislative, administrative and cultural areas, which are intended to promote organically and institutionally the common good. (Christifideles Laici, 42) The Churchs competence in passing moral judgment even in matters political has been traditionally interpreted as pertaining to the clergy. Negatively put, the clergy can teach moral doctrines covering politics but cannot actively involve themselves in partisan politics. In practice, religious men and women are also included in this prohibition. The 1987 Synod of Bishops reiterated this line of thought noting how it is the part of pastors to enunciate moral principles regarding the political order and action while it is the laitys at act in direct political action according to those principles That pastors have competence in the moral principles governing politics and that laity have competence in active and direct partisan politics is a good rule of thumb to follow. Pastors, besides having a teaching function, are also the foci of unity in Church communities of all levels and for them to take active part in partisan politics, in the wheeling and dealing that it entails, would tend to weaken their teaching authority and destroy the unity they represent and protect. (Acts of the Council, Nos. 338-342) Acts and Decrees of the Second Plenary Council of the Philippines, 1991

Teresa R. Tunay, OCDS

and thats the truth

MOTHER Church is much too big for just a handful of progressive NGOs or dissident Catholics to topple. For the depopulist objective to succeed in a country, the State must be made to lead the attack against oppositionists such as the Catholic Church. To impose a Godless contraceptive mentality on a God-fearing nation, foreign RH champions couldnt have picked a more qualified ally than a head of state who happens to be Catholic and a happy-go-lucky bachelor at 52. Like the elite supporters of the depopulation ideal, he has wealth to protect, an image to boost, and an unearned reputation for righteousness inherited from parents hailed as heroes by a nave population (thanks to the machinations of minds akin to those behind NSSM-200). Reportedly a non-churchgoer in spite of his purported friendships with some Jesuit priests and Carmelite nuns, this president who once said I dont care if the Church hates me for my position on RH is brazen enough to equate Reproductive Health with

RH Attacks Mothers
Conclusion
subsequently compelling her to deal alone with the consequences of tampering with her reproductive organs. Because its the woman who possesses a womb, depopulation and RH advocates know they must work on her. If they can get a woman to embrace the contraceptive mentality, pushing their agenda would be easier. The RH campaign perpetrating the overpopulation myth has mothers and potential mothers as the prime target, aimed at persuading them through cleverly presented facts to enjoy sex more without getting pregnant. First, to make a woman fear pregnancy, she is given the fact that in our country 11 mothers die daily from childbirthso, who would want to risk her life by getting pregnant? She is also fed with flattery when assured that she is empowered by her informed choicethus, convinced by the fact that the contraceptives are safe and will protect her from the burden
And Thats The Truth / A6

Responsible Parenthood. The nervelifting a phrase from a Papal Encyclical to justify the purchase of contraceptives drugs and devices! If this is not a blatant attempt to deceive, it can only mean this leader is hopelessly ignorant and spinelessqualities not possessed by statesmen who can lead their nations to greatness. A mans greatness may also be measured by the way he values his mother; or if he is in a position of power, by his discernment of which higher power to obey. Between Reproductive Health and Mother Church, which leads to a peoples wholeness and well being? Mothers. Reproductive Health is ninetynine percent about woman, mothers and potential mothers. Only condoms and vasectomy are for the man; the rest of contraceptive commodities and procedures being peddled are for use of the woman. Pills, injectables, IUD, patches, tubal ligationeverything is designed for the woman, placing the weight of pregnancy prevention on her shoulders,

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The Popes Lebanon visit

LITTLE has been said about the Popes recent Lebanon visit in our local press. I suppose we are too concerned about our burning local issues to be distracted by some news about the Pope. But theres actually something of importance and of universal relevance to say about this papal trip. And that is what the Pope managed to attract rousing, even rapturous welcome and attention from the people in a region severely torn by conflict and violence. He seemed to click with the Muslim crowd in a way no world leader today could. This, in spite of the fact that the visit coincided with some unfavorable conditions. For one there is that current rage in the region because of a video that denigrated the Prophet Mohammed and that has resulted so far with the killing of an American ambassador. Then you have Syria that is practically going down into flames now. It also coincided with the anniversary of an ugly event, the massacre by Christian militiamen of some Palestinians and Shiites in Beirut 30 years ago. Thats, of course, a very emotional memory. Then lets recall also that the Pope himself ruffled the Muslim world back in 2006 when in an academic address, he said something the Muslims considered to be a smear against Prophet Mohammed.

Fr. Roy Cimagala

Candidly Speaking
But this time, its a different atmosphere. The Pope was even welcomed by the leaders of one of the most uncompromising Muslim sects. One of the Muslim exponents of co-existence welcomed the Holy Father with the kindest words, saying, any harm done to a Christian is a wrong done to all Muslims, and every attack on a church is an attack against all mosques. The crowds that attended the Papal activities were large. All these indicate that in spite of the worrying developments in the region, there are also some good ones taking place, albeit in some quiet way, typical of what is truly good compared to our own different versions of what is good to us. Lets thank God for this. But the Pope managed to attract this attention also because of the message of peace and hope that he brought. He proposed a way forward to a society composed of very different elements. In his own words, he said that to promote a future of peace and solidarity, the people must work to ensure that cultural, social and religious differences arrive through sincere dialogue at a new fraternity, where what unites them is the shared sense of the greatness and dignity of every person, whose life must always be defended and protected. These words remind me that what usually unites us in spite
Candidly Speaking / A7

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Editor-in-Chief

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The CBCP Monitor is published fortnightly by the CBCP Communications Development Foundation, Inc., with editorial and business offices at 470 Gen. Luna St., Intramuros, Manila. P.O. Box 3601, 1076 MCPO. Editorial: (063) 404-2182. Business: (063)404-1612.; ISSN 1908-2940

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CBCP Monitor
Vol. 16 No. 20
September 24 - October 7, 2012

Opinion
The Prophetic Mission of the Church under Martial Rule
were groups of bishops who came out with statements critical of Martial Law. The Association of Major Religious Superiors of the Philippines (AMRSP) constantly came out with statements denouncing abuses of the dictatorial regime. The AMRSP formed the Task Force Detainees (TFD) to follow up the cases of political detainees and work for their release. At a time when the freedom of the press was suppressed, the AMRSP operated the Ichthus which provided news and information during the early years of martial law. Marcos failed to ride on the 1981 visit of John Paul II to legitimize his dictatorial rule. The pope exercised his role as conscience to a society where oppression, injustice and inequality prevailed. When Marcos called for a snap election, the Church supported the NAMFREL and when it was clear that Marcos cheated, the CBCP denounced this and declared that his rule was without moral basis. The call of Cardinal Sin to support people power and the presence of priests, religious and lay people with their religious symbols at EDSA assured a peaceful transition to democracy. In all of this, the Church exercised her prophetic mission. The Church through the clergy, religious and lay people played a significant and central role in the struggle against the dictatorial role. This is a contribution that cannot be forgotten or ignored. Just because the dictatorial regime is long gone, it does not mean that the Church has stopped exercising her prophetic role. The Church continues to announce the message of life, justice, peace and the integrity of creation. The Church continues her role as conscience of society as she denounces the various manifestation of the culture of death: poverty, inequality, the destruction of the environment (through mining and logging), the lack of respect for the right to life (especially of the unborn), the ongoing armed conflict, extra-judicial killings. Those who accuse the Church of being a conservative and reactionary institution are misinformed or ignorant of the Churchs prophetic mission. The Church cannot be marginalized or eased out from the public sphere. She cannot be silenced nor will she remain silent. In season or out of season, under whatever form of government or administration the Church will always carry out her prophetic mission.

A5
Fr. Carmelo O. Diola

Fr. Amado L. Picardal, CSsR, SThD

Along The Way

FORTY years ago, President Marcos declared Martial Law and inaugurated a dictatorial regime that lasted for fourteen years. At that time, the Catholic Church in the Philippines was in the process of implementing the reforms initiated by Vatican II seven years earlier. The first Mindanao-Sulu Pastoral Conference held in 1971 had just started promoting the formation of Basic Ecclesial Communities (known as Gagmayng Kristohanong Katilingban) in Mindanao. Social Actions Centers were being established in most of the dioceses after the 1968 Rural Congress. Many dioceses had their own radio stations. The largest peasant movement (the Federation of Free Farmers) was thriving under the leadership of Catholic lay people and with the support of priests and religious. Political groups and movements with Catholic/Christian inspiration had sprouted: Christian Social Movement, Khi-Rho, Kasapi, Lakasdiwa, KDSP, etc. Community Organizing Programs were initiated in urban and rural poor areas with the support of priests and religious. Thus, at the time Martial Law was declared, the Catholic Church was just awakening to her social role in Philippine society and addressing the social issues such as poverty, inequality, injustice and corruption. While other institutions in society, such as the political parties, the press, and other civil society groups were dismantled or silenced, the Catholic Church remained steadfast. The closure of diocesan radio stations and the arrest and imprisonment of some priests, religious and seminarians did not stop the Church from carrying out her social mission. In urban and rural areas, members of BECs continued to gather in their chapels and homes to reflect on the Word of God and on their concrete situation. This broke the culture of silence and created spaces of resistance. Many joined rallies and demonstrations to protest human rights violations and demand for an end to the dictatorial rule. Tagged by the military as threats to national security, many BECs endured military harassment and some of their organizers and leaders were imprisoned or killed. Many priests continued to preach against the abuses of the dictatorial regime and some of them had to pay with their livessuch as Fr. Godofredo Alingal, SJ and Fr. Rudy Romano, CSsR. There

Spaces of Hope Faith matters

I WAS attracted to the movie since I enjoy cooking, replied Bishop Edwin de la Pena when I asked the Marawi clergy what they thought about the Danish movie Babettes Feast. I have seen the movie countless times before with friends and students. The 1988 film, in broad terms, is about how good food brings about meaningful changes in relationships. It is the spiritual through the bodily. A priest-friend used to say that, if he had the power, he would give the films director an honorary doctorate degree in theology. Bishop Edwin has a most hopeful crew of priests, moving on despite tremendous challenges posed by the ministry of Christian presence in a predominantly Muslim area (95% Muslim). The Prelature of St. Marys in Marawi has eight priests, five religious sisters, six parishes and one chaplaincy at the Mindanao State University. Even the term Prelature of St. Marys (not Prelature of Marawi) already belies some cultural sensitivities. As I listened to each priest share his story, I saw in my mind a movie reel, each frame, in and of itself, seemingly static yet, when viewed over time, is actually a moving picture. The picture is one of hope. A priest noted how they look for common religious values in support of social change. Sharing common human joys, like eating and swimming with Muslims also helps, added another. Another one, already 20 years in Marawi, observes wider roads, shorter brownouts, and a town still awake by 8 or even 10 am. Fear is not as pervasive as before, he claims. One priest hopes that Christians who live or study in Marawi would strive to be messengers of good news when they go home, focusing on positive, not negative, experiences. Challenges continue, from the lack of potable water, power supply, and fragile peace and order to the pervasive influence of clans in political affairs. The prelatures Peace Learning Centers (PLC) offer oasis of hope as Muslim and Christian children interact while learning the basics of nursery and kindergarten. In addition, the desire for good governance could be a starting point for joint effort between Muslims and Christians where leftist orientation has proven sterile. I marvel at their staying power and could only imagine the challenges Christians face. The image of the late Bishop Bienvenido Tudtud, first bishop of the prelature, comes to mind. He was a cousin of my late father, both tracing their roots to Mabolo, Cebu City, although I never met him and only recently saw his picture. Bishop Benny disarmed those he met with his signature: Maayong good morning! It was Pope Paul VI who had assigned him to Marawi. It has been 25 years since he died in a plane crash that left no trace of him. Before we parted ways, Bishop Edwin introduced me to his Dulaw Tea Extract that has ingredients grown by local Muslim farmers. This economic arrangement has, in turn, advanced the cause of dialogue. Bishop Benny did leave some trace of himself in the active Christian presence in Marawi. *** But it is not only among bishops and priests that faith matters. I was recently involved in the Lead PNP Award for the most outstanding chief of police in our country. The award is now on its third year and this years recognition includes the flavor of leaders with initiative. Initiative is a highly-valued trait especially in government where people tend, having security of tenure, to focus on mere compliance and even appearance of compliance. But, then again, government workers do not have a monopoly of this tendency. From a pool of more than 1,700 chiefs of police all over the country, the Lead PNP award received nominees which a technical working group whittled down to the top 5. One police officer has to content with terrorists and dangers from improvised explosive devise; his team has developed a system for dealing with such threats. Another is a handson leader who participates in the actual apprehension of criminals. A third developed a very effective system for making the police presence felt thereby reducing crimes. A fourth apprehended a high-school classmate who was involved in a high-profile case. All were already winners in their own right. For the first time, however, the award went to the youngest (29 years old) and the lowest ranking (police inspector) of the five finalists, and for any finalists for that matter. Inspector Norman Nuez is the police chief of Danao, Bohol, and erstwhile insurgency hotbed. He impressed the selection committee for his clear grasp of the situation and the initiatives he had undertaken to address these. One even involved helping the local mayor draft an ordinance that helped in the traffic situation. All the finalists have a deep sense of God and of their calling as public servants. Norman had been part of the first batch of trainees of the Values and Leadership School (VLS) in Regional Training School 7 in 2005 under the leadership of then PCSupt. Samson Tucay. Faith matters. *** As the Archdiocese of Cebuand the whole Philippine churchprepares for the canonization of Blessed Pedro Calungsod, one is reminded that faith involves personal choices whose implications have a public face. The proposed bill of a party list seeking to relegate religion as a purely private affair is only the tip of the iceberg. In a book titled, Why We Should Call Ourselves Christianswith foreword by Pope Benedict XVIauthor Marcello Pera (an Italian politician and professor of political philosophy) brilliantly points out what he calls The Secular Equation. It goes like this (with liberal synonymous with modern): 1) The liberal state is secular; 2) the liberal state is nonreligious; 3) the liberal state transfers religion to the private sphere, or the liberal state excludes religion from the public sphere; and 4) the liberal state professes a secular religion. In short, according to this view, faith does not or should not matter in public affairs. The very well-funded proponents of the RH bill definitely have a well-orchestrated communication plan wherein the above equation comes into play. Opinion formers, decision makers, and other gatekeepers respond, as if on cue, to the tune of church bashing and other diversionary tactics when the church make a prolife stand. How many indeed are misled by half-truths, sweeping generalizations, and innuendos. There is a general disregard for the demographics of the population winter, one high-profile lawyer saying that he does not have competency on this (so why doesnt he study the matter?) and a member of a covenanted community emailing me that Singapore and the Philippines cannot be compared (forgetting that many other developed nations have an aging population). To my mind, the root has to do with what the late Jesuit philosopher, Bernard Lonergan, had to say regarding the general bias: Common sense almost invariably makes that mistake; for it is incapable of analyzing itself, incapable of making the discovery that it
Spaces of Hope / A7

Remembering the Filipino Saints

CEBU City. As of press time, the Board of Officers and Trustees of Sangguniang Laiko ng Pilipinas (Laiko), headed by its National President and writer of this column, Atty. Aurora A. Santiago, and National Spiritual Adviser Most Rev. Jesse Mercado, Bishop of Paraaque and Chairman of CBCP Episcopal Commission on the Laity, are now in Cebu City in solidarity with the Archdiocesan Council of the Laity of Cebu led by its President Atty. Paterno Acabodillo and assisted by its Vice President Engr. Nida Ruiz. The Laiko Board graced the launching of the National Laity Week (celebrated from September 23 to 29, 2012) and the General Assembly of the Cebu Archdiocesan Council of the Laity on September 23 at Mariners Court, ALU Compound, Cebu City. Laiko Auditor Zeny Capistrano delivered the Invocation, Laiko VP for Visayas Nida Ruiz acknowledged the guests and delegates, Rev. Msgr. Rommel Kintanar welcomed them, Cebu Auxiliary Bishop Most Rev. Julito Cortes gave the Inspirational Message, Atty. Aurora A. Santiago delivered her message, Most Rev. Jesse Mercado was the keynote speaker, Rev. Msgr. Dennis Villarojo, P.C. talked about Blessed Pedro Calungsod and the New Evangelization, Archdiocesan Council of the Laity Education Committee Chairman Fe Barino and Laikos VP for Luzon gave the Laymens answer to the call. The occasions highlight was the Concelebrated Mass where Most Rev. Jose S. Palma, D.D., Archbishop of Cebu and CBCP President, was the Main Celebrant. The National Laity Week is celebrated in the week of the Feast of San Lorenzo Ruiz, the first Filipino Saint. The theme Building up the Body of Christ and Strengthening our Faith Through New Evangelization is pursuant to the exhortation of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI who declared October 11, 2012

Atty. Aurora A. Santiago

Duc in Altum
was facilitated by Fr. Marvin Mejia and Ms. Marge Matthu. Many thanks to His Eminence not only for the delicious snacks and photo opportunities but also the political stories he told us which only those close to him will ever know. Daghang salamat Cardinal. *** Laiko invites everyone to the Closing Ceremony of the National Laity Week at UST, Espaa, Manila on September 28, Feast of San Lorenzo. Registration starts at 1:00 p.m. Part I is the Concelebrated Mass to be presided by Most Rev. Luis Antonio Tagle, Archbishop of Manila. Part 2 is the Symposium at 3:30 p.m. Atty. Aurora A. Santiago will deliver the Inspirational Message. Rev. Fr. Catalino Arevalo, SJ, and Prof. Joan Christi Trocio will talk about Lay Spirituality. Most Rev. Jesse Mercado will give the Closing Remarks. Part 3 is the presentation of San Pedro Calungsod Musicale: Scenes from Martyrdom at 6:00 p.m. Tickets are distributed for free by Laiko office. The 29AD Musicionaries of Couples for Christ was commissioned by the National Commission on the Canonization of Blessed Pedro Calungsod to come up with a musical to honor Blessed Pedro. Mr. Bob Serrano and Nonong Sampang are the Musical Directors, directed by Sev Sarmenta. The Musicale is an adaptation from the musical play Scenes from a Martyrdom by Msgr. Rudy Villanueva. Makisig Morales will play the role of Blessed Pedro. *** The Council of the Laity of Kalookan, in cooperation with Caritas-Kalookan, will conduct Medical Mission at San Ildefonso de Navotas Parish on September 30 from 8 a.m. to 12Noon. *** We request the readers to pray for the
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(50 years after Vatican II) to November 24, 2013 as the Year of Faith. San Lorenzo Ruiz and Blessed Pedro Calungsod, soon to be canonized on October 21, 2012 as the second Filipino saint, are the patron saints of the laity. *** Atty. Santiago talked about The Laity as Persons Co-Responsible in the Essence and Action of the Church. She shared what she learned in the 6th international assembly last August 2012 sponsored by International Forum of Catholic Actions in Romania where the role of the laity as co-responsible in the functions of the Church was discussed. She also mentioned the message of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI on the co-responsible function of the laity in the Church; that the laity are persons co-responsible in the reality of the essence and action of the Church. The Pope said For this reason, it is important to consolidate a mature and committed laity, able to give specific contribution to the mission of the Church, in respect of the ministries and works that each and every one has in the life of the Church and always in cordial communion with the Bishops. She also shared with the delegates the blessings given by the Pope to the delegates because the Pope said that he also extends his Apostolic Blessing to those whom the delegates meet in their daily apostolate. *** Laiko thanks the Cebu Archdiocesan Council of the Laity for the warm welcome and hospitality given to the Laiko Board of Officers and Trustees. Special thanks to Ms. Fe Barino, who hosted the Laiko Board Meeting in her very beautiful house. Many thanks to Mayor Paz Radaza of Lapu-Lapu City for hosting the sumptuous breakfast for the Laiko Board. We also thanked His Eminence, Ricardo Cardinal Vidal, for his warm hospitality when the Laiko Board paid courtesy call. This

Fr. Francis Ongkingco

Whatever
JOSEPH ran out of the Church looking for his mother. He had just gone to his first confession in preparation for first communion. His face undoubtedly showed so much excitement to receive Jesus soon. Ma! Ma! he called out to her waving both hands wildly in the air. Comin, honey! she replied as she paid the ice-cream vendor. Ice-creamcream! Cream! Joseph jumped and thumped both feet on the pavement. Ma! Ma! Here you are, dear, Alice handed him the ice-cream cone. She waited, but was disappointed to see that he immediately gobbled up his cold treat. Oh, huhsorry, mama, the boy stared at the half-eaten cone. Forgot, thank you Its alright, honey, she embraced Joseph who was born with Down syndrome. The symptoms, however, were very slight and Joseph possessed notable intellectual and communicating skills. Remember the flying kiss, its more important, Seph. Yesyes, flying kiss! Joseph, wiped his ice-cream stained fingers on his pants and blew a kiss flying into the air. What a wonderful angel kiss, dear, Alice said. Thank you, mama, he embraced and kissed his mother. Did I hear you say something about an angel kiss, Alice? Diana asked. Yes, I taught it to Joseph so he could prepare better for first communion, Alice proudly said. But thats the first time Ive heard of such a thing, Diana said. You can say I invented it, Diana dear, Alice smiled at her high school friend. I know, but perhaps you could teach it to me as well so that I have something more for my Peter when he also receives first communion. Well, I suppose youve heard how saints really dealt with their angels, right? I dont really recall much from our religion classes back in high school with Sister Angelique, Diana explained. Its quite simple, Alice said. Let me explain while we wait

Angel Kisses
for the school bus to pick us all up. *** So the saints habitually dealt with their angels, you say? Yes, Alice confirmed. Some did it rather explicitly like letting them go ahead when they opened a door, others would give a space for them wherever they sat, and others would silently greet their angels and the other peoples angels. Wow! Somehow, Ive already forgotten all that, Diana lamented. Dont you remember how Sister Angelique encouraged us to give our angels a name? You know, Im ashamed to say that I dont, Diana blushed. Its alright, its never too late anyway, Alice said. Now, what about the angel kisses? Its another way to help Joseph materialize his spiritual life. Materialize? Diana didnt understand. May I ask if Sister Angelique flunked you in religion? Alice jokingly asked. Verrrry fuuunnnny, Diana smirked. Angels are spiritual beings. You cant see, smell, nor touch them. But theres no harm and in fact, theyre very happy if you materialize, that is, to make your dealings with them more concrete. Sending them a flying kiss is one example. Thats sooo cute, Alice, Diana exclaimed. But how is this supposed to help with our childrens first communion. It will help very much! A kiss? No, I meant what the children will be reminded about when they send a flying kiss to their angels. And what would that be, Alice? Its quite amazing that angels were created for one sole purpose. Ill ask Sister Angelique to raise your grade if you can answer me this one. How can you even say anything like that when dear Sister Angel has already been gone some fifteen years? I know, Diana. Dont you want to pass the final exam of your life? Alice grinned.
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Local News

CBCP Monitor
September 24 - October 7, 2012

Vol. 16 No. 20

Natl Museum declares Sto. Domingo Church as national treasure

THE Santo Domingo Church in Quezon City will officially be declared as National Cultural Treasure by the National Museum on October 4. Fr. Clarence Victor Marquez, OP, director of the Institute of Preaching, said the occasion will coincide with the traditional enthronement ceremonies of the canonical image of Nuestra Seora del Rosario, La Naval de Manila. The original church structure, which was of gothic architecture, was previously located within Intramuros, Manila and managed by the Dominican Order. It was reconstructed again after it collapsed in 1589 but this time it was made up of concrete. In 1960s, the Santo Domingo Church was relocated to Quezon City after getting a lot of destruction during the Second World War. It also became the new national shrine of the Our Lady of the Holy Rosary of La Naval de Manila. Since it is a shrine accessible to many residents of the city, the church became
www.knapsack.weebly.com

Remind students about Martial law, gift of democracyCEAP

TEACHERS of public and private schools should make it a point to remind students that 40 years ago, the Philippines was placed under Martial Law and that Democracy was a valuable gift Filipinos will risk their lives for. Fr. Gregg Banaga, president of the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP), said it is important to remind the youth about their elders sacrifice to attain freedom from dictatorship and tyranny. Banaga, who was a student of Adamson University in 1972 when then President Ferdinand Marcos signed Proclamation No. 1084 and placed the country under Martial Law, recounted the atmosphere of fear and uncertainty prevalent during the Martial Law era. It is important to remind students about the Martial Law because the freedom we are enjoying today is not enjoyed in the past and a lot of people risked their lives for this freedom, he said. Schools should also be in the forefront of remembering the lessons of Martial law so that students will value democracy and not take it for granted. Let it be a warning to students not to take democracy for granted. If you dont guard it, one day you will lose it and you will long for it, he said. Banaga also urged Filipino youth to guard the freedom that you are enjoying today so that the future generations can also enjoy it. (YouthPinoy)
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Faade of Santo Domingo Church. The main altar inside the church has the mosaic of St. Dominic at the center.

a melting pot of devotees from different places. In December 1971, the autonomous Philippine Dominican Province was created, and the church was placed under the care of the Filipino Dominican priests, who accepted the responsibilities

of the parish two and a half months later. On February 23, 1972, the Santo Domingo Church was canonically established and was declared a parish church. From among the clergy assigned to the parish, a priest is elected and recommended to the local bishop for

appointment. For the parishioners, the church is not only a cultural treasure but also a refuge of the poor. During typhoons and floods, many families run inside for shelter and stay there for several days. (CBCPNews)

Audio Bible spreads good news to Filipinos

NO time to read the Bible? Now you can download it in your smartphone, laptop or mp3 player and listen to it anywhere you want. An audio Bible currently available in English and two Philippine languages, is now available in CD format from the Philippine Bible Society (PBS). This is the groups way of making the Scripture widely accessible to people, said San Fernando Auxiliary Bishop Pablo David amid a decreasing readership and knowledge of the Bible. David chairs the CBCPs
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Episcopal Commission on Biblical Apostolate, which has long been working with PBS, an interfaith organization, in promoting Bible literacy in the country. We know that not everyone is interested in reading thats why we also promote this audio Bible, David said. This is also part of our Faith comes from Hearing campaign because we also agreed that faith comes from hearing so we also promote this audio Bible, he said. The audio Bible, which also comes in Tagalog and Cebuano, has mp3 version so that

people can upload it in their cellphones, play it on a regular mp3 or CD player. In the works is another audio Bible, this time in other local dialects such as Waray-Waray, Bicol, Pangasinan, Ilocano, and Hiligaynon, added David. The recording work is still ongoing for the other languages. Pretty soon well make it available in all Filipino languages, he said. A recent survey by the National Book Development Board (NBDB) revealed a decline in the number of Filipinos into reading from 92 percent in
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2007 to 88 percent in 2012. However, David said it is not cause for alarm. All we need to do is to adjust to the new culture because the learning process of the people is changing, he said. This means we have to take advantage of the new culture of learning and that is through audio visual, the bishop added. People will be using a lot their cellphones, IPAD, the digital technology and we consider this a good development although for us its still best if you have a hard copy of the Bible, he said.

In 2006, the PBS already created an e-Bible, an electronic version of the Bible, as a response to concerns that the Scriptures will be left behind in a world that is moving so rapidly. If we are truly to engage our present society in the Word of God, we have to do it through all positive media that reach them, and one of these is, of course, the computer, it said. The PBS also started using anim on mobile phones in 2008 to popularize the Bible, and give children and teens the spiritual boost they need. (RL/CBCPNews)

ippines (CBCP). After the liturgical celebration, the nearly 2,000 coconut farmers from different provinces in Luzon marched to the Supreme Court, also in Manila, and demanded full recovery of the hefty funds. The farmers also filed a complaint with SCs Committee on Ethics and Ethical Standards over the controversial April 12, 2011 ruling awarding with finality to Cojuangco the coco levy funds invested in 20 percent shares of San Miguel Corporation (SMC). Atty. Marco Antonio Luisito Sardillo, a Manila-based volunteer lawyer of the farmers, said the decision was based on SCs interpretation that the 20 percent share is not ill gotten. He, however, said that it totally contradicts the SCs decision in January 2012 where it ruled that another block of SMC shares representing 27 percent or 33,133,266 of the total capital stock of the company belong to the government to be used for the coconut industry and the farmers. The challenge really is there a law referring to ill-gotten wealth? We are not trying to argue with the SC about the interpretation of the law but thats just the really the
And Thats The Truth / A4

issue here, Sardillo said. The coco levy fund is a massive multi-billion peso largesse created by levies imposed on coconut farmers in the 1970s that were channeled to corporations owned by people close to the late President Ferdinand Marcos. The farmers were also assured of development of the coconut industry and a share in the investments. Martial law is over but coco levy plunder continues, as attempts to recover the levy are constantly being thwarted by the rich and powerful, Maribel Luzara, a farmer leader from Bondoc Peninsula, said in Tagalog. A separate letter from the Nassa was also delivered personally by its executive secretary Fr. Edu Gariguez to the Ethics Committee calling for investigation on the 2011 decision. We request that the Ethics Committee investigate this matterconsidering that this error has given rise to the anomalous decision in the case of Republic vs. Cojuangco, said Gariguez in his letter. We trust the Court will find its investigation, the answers that our 3.4 million countrys coconut farmers seek, he also said. (RL/ CBCPNews)

with a new game to fight jueteng. Cruz said that Aquino might be referring to the Loterya ng Bayan that will also be managed by the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO). Just like the much-ballyhooed STL, however, he said it will only end up being a front for jueteng operators and a cash cow for corrupt government officials.
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According to him, many STL operators act as dummies for jueteng operators, using their PCSO ID cards if caught by authorities. He said that jueteng is a profitable business that operators cannot but favor the illegal numbers game than the Loterya because it has taxes to pay while jueteng income is all theirs. The Loterya will only be used for jueteng operations

because these bets are more profitable than the legal lottery, he said. Cruz reiterated that the g overnment can st amp out jueteng if Aquino wants to. He said Aquino only has to say the word rather than legalize jueteng. This has long been said that since we cannot stop jueteng, lets legalize it. This is a very shallow approach to this vice, he said. (RL/ CBCPNews)

eternal repose of the soul of our dear friend and CBCP Monitor co-columnist Sr. Pilar Verzosa, RGS. She died after suffering severe stroke while giving a talk on natural family planning to nurses, midwives and therapists at De La Salle University Medical Center in Dasmarias, Cavite Hospital. Sr. Pilar turned 68 on September 24. *** The participants to Laikos 10 days Pilgrimage on the Canonization of Blessed Pedro Calungsod are requested to submit documentary requirements for the issuance of Italian/Schengen Visa to allow them to join the pilgrimage. Please contact Joseph or Kate at LAIKO Building, 372 Cabildo Street, Intramuros, Manila; Telephone No. 527-5388; Fax No. 527-3124; Cel No. 0919-863-4218, email: laiko_phils@yahoo.com.ph. *** Happy Birthday to my nephew Roberto Enrico Imperial on his birthday today; to my sister Flordeliza S. Imperial and nephew Marc Glenn Rosales tomorrow and my other nephew Paulo Roberto Santiago on the 29th. Happy Birthday also to Atty. Pat Acabodillo, President of Archdiocesan Council of the Laity of Cebu.

ciple of transparency and accountability. It is an important component to appropriately ensure the flagship governmental advocacy on Matuwid na Daan (righteous path), said NASSA national director Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pabillo. Unless the President sees the urgent need to pass the FOI bill, his campaign (for a straight path of governance) is only a slogan, and has no firm basis, he said. In the NASSA statement, the church agency also urged Aquino to exert more effort and influence on his allies in Congress to ensure the immediate passage of the bill. We urge Speaker Feliciano Belmonte, Jr. to immediately direct their respective chairpersons of the Committee on Public Information to conduct committee hearings
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on the said bill, said Pabillo. He added that both Houses of Congress should deliberate and decide on the bill before the 15th Congress ends. Malacaang, however, responded that the passage of the FOI bill already lies in the hands of the Congress. Pabillo also emphasized that lack of access to information systematically subjects the marginalize sectors to become vulnerable to exploitation and manipulation by bad elements in the society. Without access to information, these sectors as well as other sectors in the Philippine society gain no knowledge as to what government plans. They would be unaware of the projects and contracts the national and local governments make for

them, he said. The passage and enforcement of the FOI would be a great service to the people; it empowers people with a new tool of information, especially the poor; it promotes social justice by giving the opportunity for social auditing of previously inaccessible public information, all geared towards the pursuit of common good, added Pabillo. It is high time, the NASSA said, for the passage of the bill, which has been discussed and debated for the last 14 years, if Malacaang is serious in its anti-corruption drive. Why is Malacaang not following-up the calling of hearings if there is nothing to fear about the legislation? Pabillo asked. (CBCPNews)

of unwanted or ill-timed pregnancy, she chooses her contraceptive mode and revels at her newfound sex life. She can now claim equal footing with the man: what the man can do, she can do, toohave serial partners and indulge her libido to the max! This supposedly liberating scenario is meant to lure mothers and mothers-to-be, promising them total enjoyment and full emancipation from male tyranny. Havent you ever heard of ssssssafe ssssssex? it hisses to woman, Fulfill yourself, you need never become a mother if you dont want to! The sweet talk is so calculated as to make the woman bite of the RH apple, so to speak. Its the same drama in the Garden of Eden being restaged in our country: seduce the woman and youll ensnare the man as well. Through lies, and more lies. The Enemies of Truth are determined to sow more seeds of deception earlier, at 5th Grade in schools, with the RH Bills idea of sexuality education. Their target: tomorrows parents; their bait: freedom from parental authority. Again, its the girls potential mothersthey will especially instruct to be modern and scientific about their wombs. In the name of informed choice, schools are set to change a girls moral compass from being configured to the Creators heart

to being programmed as a pleasure tool for creatures. Ssssssafe ssssssex Poison in the mind at Grade 5th will welcome poison in the womb at 4th year high, if not earlier. Elsewhere in academe, RH finds adherents among Catholic university professors who apparently regard academic freedom as a supreme value, even over and above loyalty to the Magisterium of the Catholic Church. It seems hard to believe that such learned persons, judging by the content of their published statements, would be oblivious to the moral implications of foisting a Reproductive Health law upon our people. How can they overlook the bitter lessons of a demographic winter in countries that had decades earlier succumbed to the pragmatism offered by RH and violated nature? Is it really possible that for all their sophistication these professors would fail to perceive that by the six-year indoctrination of girls the spirit of RH actually aims to kill their maternal instinct? In the same ilk are the physicians whose statements of support for RH reveal loyalty to something other than their Hippocratic Oath. Isnt there even one true psychologist among them who could point out the shortcut between contraception and abortion, or the

link between abortion and war? Even a little nun who worked in the slums of Calcutta saw the connection and asked, If we accept that a mother can kill her own child, how can we tell other people not to kill one another? The attack on Mothers rages on, secretly, as RH Bill 4244 in the Philippines undergoes a period of amendment. As this piece is being written a pall of silence hovers over the battleground, but it is no secret that as before, executive and legislative powers may be abused, the voice of prudence drowned by the clinking of silver coins from distant sources, and the bill pushed down the matuwid na daan of the railroad track. That sounds ridiculously funny yet so real. Sowill it then spell doom for Mother Nature, Motherland, Mother Church and Mothers? No, no, no, no. There is one Blessed Mother who is impervious to any assault, and She will crush the head of the RH serpent. We all know who She is, for even infidels, atheists and the vilest of sinners cringe in Her Presence. We invoke that Presence, and it is graciously granted to us. All that is asked of us believers is to remain under all circumstances docile as She was and still is to the will of God. And the gates of hell shall not prevail against our lupang hinirang. And thats the truth.

date, the value cancels out when added with other negative and positive value of variance. Smartmatic and even the COMELEC have not bothered to explain the accuracy issue. Calls of IT and electoral advocates to look into their findings have been ignored, Pabillo lamented. According to him, even the House Committee on Suffrage and Electoral Reforms (CSER) appeared disinterested to entertain the analysis of the result of the mock election. Instead of opening doors for citizens participation to improve the automated election, COMELEC chose to be exclusive and defend Smartmatic in every way, he said. The church official emphaIvory / A1

sized the need to address such issues in order to avoid a repeat of the mistakes in 2010. What matters most, he also said, is for the automated electoral process not only to bring quick results but also accurate and credible counting. Despite the questioned result of the mock polls, COMELEC chairman Sixto Brillantes said it still met the requirements they have provided. Random manual audit already has human intervention. That is not what was guaranteed by Smartmatic. Naturally, Smartmatic vouched for the accuracy of the machines, that they will not misread the votes, said Brillantes. Once an oval is shaded, the machine requires the 50 percent

threshold; otherwise it will not be counted. But if done by a human, it cannot be determined anymore if it is 50 percent or not. That is where the variance comes in, he said. Pabillo called on President Benigno Aquino III and Congress to re-examine the qualifications of the PCOS machines that will be used in the 2013 elections. He also urged the public to be vigilant in making sure that next years polls would be clean, authentic and responsible. Good governance starts with election of candidates, Pabillo said. We want the counting of votes to be accurate and reliable, and not just fast, to protect the sacred right and will of the electorates.

Magazine needs to be assessed as to its veracity, considering that the article smacks of bias against religious practices. In regard to the matter of Msgr. Garcias past, the case has been elevated to the Holy See and it has initiated the investigation into it long before the present controversy erupted. I have also fulfilled the Holy Sees instructions regarding submission of documents and acting upon related consequences.

We likewise need to clarify the claims made by the author of the article on the supposed perception of the religious icons among Filipinos. While it is true that icons are venerated by us because through them we are able to tangibly express our faith in God and our devotion to the saints, in no way does the Church teach that these icons are in fact God Himself or the saints themselves. Any encouragement

promoting such idolatry is contrary to Church belief and must be purified. In this situation, I pray through the intercession of Blessed Pedro Calungsod, that the Lord will strengthen our people that they remain steadfast in their faith, persevering in their search for the truth, fair in seeking justice and charitable in every way. +JOSE S. PALMA, DD Archbishop of Cebu

CBCP Monitor
Vol. 16 No. 20
September 24 - October 7, 2012

Diocesan News
BASCO, Batanes A Catholic bishop has appealed for aid for Batanes province, which is experiencing supply shortage of some basic commodities caused by recent typhoons that hit the area. Batanes Bishop Camilo Gregorio said that recent bad weather conditions have prevented the trips of cargo ships, which bring supplies to the area located at the northernmost tip of the country. He said the province particularly needs more supply of basic needs like rice, sugar, and petroleum products.

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Thats why we are suffering here but we will be able to overcome this, Gregorio said on Sept. 14. We also thank those who are helping us here to alleviate our inconvenience. Responding to the appeal of the bishop, the Caritas Manila said it would immediately send aid to the province. Fr. Anton Pascual, Caritas Manila executive director, said they would coordinate with the affected diocese to address the needs of the people of Batanes. (CBCPNews)

End to illegal logging sought in Basilan

ISABELA CITY, BasilanA Catholic bishop appealed on the government to look into the rampant illegal logging in the watershed of Lamitan City, Basilan. Isabela Bishop Martin Jumoad said the government should protect the watershed from any encroachment and other illegal activities that would compromise the 13-hectare forest reserve. This is alarming. We are hoping that this will be stopped. We are calling on our provincial officials to send people that will investigate this matter, Jumoad said on Sept. 11. The bishop said many people are also afraid that the illegal cutting of trees may cause flash floods in Basilan province. He also called on the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to intervene on the issue to stop further damage of the areas particularly in the villages of Arko and Libertad Lomoton. We are already very concerned about this because we already have a problem here on flooding and now theres illegal logging, added Jumoad. So I am calling again the attention of DENR and the ARMM provincial government I hope that they will investigate these illegal logging activities, he said. Lamitan City Mayor Roderick Furigay earlier said that at least six hectares of the watershed in Brgy. Arco alone were found to have been denuded. According to him, they already have requested the DENR to secure the area by building a detachment to stop the illegal logging. Furigay said a local investigation is also ongoing to prosecute those behind the illegal activity. (CBCPNews)

Batanes bishop appeals for aid

Briefing
Cebu Youth Commission to hold leadership seminar

CEBU CityA leadership seminar organized by the 8th district of the Commission on Youth of the Archdiocese of Cebu together with the Family of United and Empowered Leaders (FUEL) will be held at the Archdiocesan Youth Center in Cebu City on September 29 and 30. Titled Developing Effective Leaders (DEL), the seminar aims to inform the participants what true leadership is; to help them realize what it takes to become effective leaders; and to encourage them to develop themselves into great leaders of their organization. (Jandel Posion)
Interfaith groups hold 1st Davao Peace Fair

Bishop Martin Jumoad

Calungsod FaceBook page garners more than 3k likes

CEBU City After launching the online prayer network Barkada ni Pedro in the social networking site Facebook, it already garnered more than 3,000 likes or prayers. The Facebook page established by the Cebu Archdiocesan Youth Commission in honor of the soon-to-be saint Pedro Calungsod was launched last August 6 to provide a meeting place where people who need someone to pray for them can meet people who want to pray for their intentions. According to ACY Cebu, aside from more than 3,000 likes, they already received more than 2,000 prayers; a month and a half after the fan page was launched. If the cyberspace is connecting people, prayer is also connecting us to everyone and to God. If Pedro
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FILE PHOTO

Calungsod were alive today, he could have been a Facebook user too, youth commission chair Msgr. Arthur Navales said. Those who are interested to join the online community, you may visit barkada ni Pedro at www. facebook.com/barkadanipedro and click the like button. There are two activities that they can do, to pray and to be prayed for. One can post a prayer intention in the field write something, which is transformed into a pray box and for those who want to commit to pray for a persons intention, they can simply click the like button of the posted

DAVAO CityVarious interfaith groups joined non-government organizations (NGOs) and the military from Eastern Mindanao Command in celebrating the 1st Davao Peace Fair to commemorate the International Day of Peace last September 21. Declared by the United Nations in 1981, the International Day of Peace gives every people a venue to celebrate simultaneous planetary progress for peace. Activities such as art crafting, essay writing, peace forum, cultural presentations and peace concert graced the fair. Davaos 1st Peace Fair was held at the SM City Davao Annex Activity Center with the theme Sustainable Peace for a Sustainable Future. (MJ Olea/Jandel Posion)
Annual gathering fosters unity among Bicol clergy

intention, organizers said. A 6 p.m. Mass every Friday is devoted for the offering of the prayer intentions posted in the Facebook page, they also said. The mass, tagged as the Tambayan ni Pedro, since his favorite hang-out is the mass, is being celebrated at the Cebu Archdiocesan Youth Center (beside the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral at the back of the Cathedral Museum), organizers added.

They are also encouraging all young people to join them in praying for others and be united through prayers. Calungsod was doing a missionary work in Guam in 1672 when he was killed at age 17. Blessed John Paul II beatified him on March 5, 2000. He will be canonized in Rome this coming October 21 by Pope Benedict XVI and will be the 2nd Filipino Saint following St. Lorenzo Ruiz in 1987. (Jandel Posion)

NAGA CityThe Union of Bicol Clergy (UBC) met for their annual gathering at the Holy Rosary Minor Seminary in Naga City last September 11 to 13. Aimed to foster unity and camaraderie among the clergy in Bicol region, the annual gathering brings the priests into a deeper understanding of the unity of faith through a shared vision of the priesthood, appreciate the gift of faith through fellowship and association with colleagues in the ministry, and to share the blessing of faith through priestly witnessing and spirituality. Activities during the three-day affair include seminars on Photography, Computer Basics and Troubleshooting, as well as sports activities. (CBCPNews)
Seminarians gather for Philosophy days

KALIBO, AklanAround 280 seminarians, priests and lay formators gathered from Sept. 24 to 26 at the Sto. Nio Seminary in Numancia, Aklan and discussed issues relevant to seminary formation. Set on September 24 until 26, the annual Philosophy Days has participants coming from the seven Major seminaries of Western Visayas. Focusing on the theme Philosophical Studies: Its Relevance and Necessity to Seminary Formation, participants revisited Churchs teachings on philosophical Studies, that seem to be declining in this post-modernistic age with Msgr. Adolfo Depra, Ph.D. a professor of the Sto. Nio seminary as the main speaker. (CBCPNews)
Liturgists National Meeting re-echoes liturgical renewal

Youre really nasty, just because you remember all that religion stuff. Of course not! Religion isnt about remembering or memorizing things. Thats only in the beginning. The exciting part is living what we know. So are you ready for the answer? Okay, Diana conceded. Angels were created to guide us to Heaven. Saints would say that the greatest failure for an angel although its not their fault since its our choice to go up or down is that the person they are entrusted with ends up in Hell.
Spaces of Hope / A5

Thats horrible! Diana brushed away the goose bumps from her arm. So dealing with our Angels makes them very happy, because doing so makes us more aware of their presence and we ask their help so that we may truly take advantage of all the graces we need to go to Heaven. And holy communion? Oh, I almost forgot. Since their mission is to get us to Heaven. Theres nothing here on earth closer to Heaven than worthily receiving God Himself in the Eucharist. That really makes them very

happy. Alright, but I dont get the flying kiss part yet, Diana said. Why dont you ask Joseph? Joseph, why do you make a flying kiss to your angel? Diana asked the boy who was sitting meekly beside his mother. Flying kiss to say, thank you, Joseph said softly. What else, dear, Alice prodded her son. Flying kiss to give angel kiss of Jesus in me after communion.

BACOLOD CityVarious liturgists across the country gathered for the 27th National Meeting of Diocesan Directors of Liturgy at the Bacolod Pavilion Hotel from September 10 to 13 with the theme, The Constitution on the Liturgy and Its Impact on the Philippine Church. Hosted by the Diocese of Bacolod, the convention was attended by around 190 diocesan directors of liturgy, clerics, religious and lay faithful. Some 82 local observers from the parishes of the Bacolod were also present at the event. The meeting featured a series of lectures celebrating 50 years of the liturgical reforms ushered in by Vatican II through the document, Sacrosanctum Concilium, and a book launched by Fr. Anscar Chupungco, OSB. (ADSUM Bacolod)
Laguna youth to conduct 1st youth congress

too is a specialized development of human knowledge, incapable of coming to grasp that its peculiar danger is to extend its legitimate conCandidly Speaking / A4

cern for the concrete and the immediately practical into disregard of larger issues and indifference to long-term results.

Even the concrete and immediately practical issues of poverty reduction and maternal health are ultimately a question of ap-

plying resources to where they are needed and making sure corruption does not get in the way. Yes, faith matters.

SAN PABLO CityThe San Pablo Youth Commission (SPYC) of the Diocese of San Pablo in Laguna will hold the 1st diocesan youth congress in preparation for the celebration of the Year of Faith that will start on October 11, 2012. According to Robson Tagle, a core-group member and the social media head of SPYC, the event is their response to the call of the Mother Church, which is to activate the faith of the young. He added that the youth congress is different from other youth events in the diocese because this will be the first time that parish based youth and youth organizations present in the diocese will gather to discuss faith based youth issues. (Jandel Posion)

of our sharp differences in politics, social position and religion, is when we have natural disasters. There, we dont talk about differences. We just help one another. But we dont have to wait for disasters to put us together. We have to learn to build unity and genuine fraternity with or without disasters, and especially when we move forward to national and world progress and development. This, of course, will need some fundamental requirements. There has to be unconditional respect for the dignity of the person, always acknowledging his transcendental destiny and not just his earthly, temporal and material welfare. This will stretch our patience to infinity as we unavoidably traverse through our differences. There has to be genuine religious freedom that is the antithesis of intolerance, discrimination and bitter zeal. This means we have to be filled up with unconditional love for one another if we truly love God or Allah or whatever it is that one considers as God. True religious freedom allows sincere differences in our religious beliefs, but also knows how to resolve these through cordial dialogue and respect for the others no matter how convinced we may be that they are wrong. Then, of course, life in all its stages, from conception to natural death, should be respected if peace is to be attained. The Pope said it well when he said: If we want peace, let us defend life. How can we have peace when there is already fear of life by contracepting and aborting totally defenseless babies? The attitude for contraception and abortion is already the very germ that can grow into the monsters of hatred, suspicion, envy, violence and terrorism. The Pope also said that we should foster stable families and that instead of hoarding on weapons, we should rather make a growing stock of good ideas and creativity about ways of how to handle our differences well. This is the challenge of all of us today.

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People, Facts & Places

CBCP Monitor

September 24 - October 7, 2012

Vol. 16 No. 20

Archbishop Tagle named for evangelization synod

MANILA Archbishop Luis Antonio Tagle is one the Synod Fathers appointed by Pope Benedict XVI for the upcoming assembly of bishops on the New Evangelization. Tagle will join 34 other cardinals, bishops and representatives of different religious orders and charisms within the church when they meet with the pontiff from October 7 to 28 in the Vatican. This also means that the Manila archbishop will already be in the Vatican during the canonization of the soon-to-be second Filipino saint, Blessed Pedro Calungsod, on October 21. There are only two Asians in the group, which will be composed of 10 cardinals, one patriarch, 11 archbishops, eight bishops and four priests. The other Asian prelate is Mumbai Archbishop Oswald Gracias, secretary general of the Federation of Asian Bishops Conferences (FABC). The 13th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops will address the theme The Evangelization for the Transmission of the Christian Faith. The gathering will be guided by a working document, issued June 19, which is the result of more than a year worldwide consultation among church leaders. Part of the document states that New Evangeliza- Archbishop Luis Antonio Tagle gestures while delivering his homily during the celebration of 8th anniversary of Pondo ng Pinoy at the UST Quadricentennial Building in Manila, tion must provide September 1, 2012. an adequate response to the signs of the times, which we express our identity and aims to foster the unity and to the needs of individuals and the meaning of our lives. cooperation of bishops around people of today and to the new Established by Pope Paul VI the world with the Holy See. sectors with their cultures through in 1965, the synod of bishops (RL/CBCPNews)

Laiko organizes pilgrimage for Calungsods canonization

Italy; Montserrat, Spain; and Monaco in the French Riviera. Atty. Santiago explained that anyone who wants to join the pilgrimage has to attend the catecheses on Blessed Pedro Calungsod to know more about the life and example of the young martyr, whom together Filipino pilgrims joining the Laiko-organized with San Lorenzo pilgrimage will witness Blessed Pedros canonization first-hand in the Eternal City, Rome. Ruiz, will be the patron of the laity A SPECIAL pilgrimage orga- of the Philippines. Paraaque Bishop Jesse Mernized by the Council of the Laity of the Philippines (Laiko) will cado, who is also the Chairman bring lay Filipinos to Rome on of the CBCP Episcopal ComOctober 18 for Blessed Pedro mission on the Laity, will be the pilgrimages chaplain. Calungsods canonization. Pilgrims who have signed up According to National Laiko President Atty. Aurora Santiago, for the pilgrimage come from some 45 pilgrims have initially Manila, Quezon City, Batangas, registered for the pilgrimage, among others. Most of the pilgrims come which is scheduled to take them from the Cursillos in Christianaround Italy until October 27. An extended pilgrimage is ity and the Catholic Womens also open until October 31, League. For inquiries, contact the which will include visits to Marian pilgrimage sites all over Eu- Laiko Office at (02) 527-5388. rope like Lourdes, France; Milan, (Nirvaana Ella Delacruz)

Noli Yamsuan / RCAM

Filipino youth urged to volunteer for WYD

THE Filipina who represented the Asian youth through a question and answer session with Pope Benedict XVI during the last World Youth Day (WYD) in Spain has invited fellow Filipino youth to attend the upcoming event in Brazil, not only as pilgrims but also as volunteers. Kritzia Santos, who was one of the five young Catholics given the rare opportunity to directly ask the Holy Father on youth issues during the WYD 2011 vigil at Cuatro Vientos airbase, was a part of the International Volunteers Department of the WYD as a member of apostolic lay movement, Regnum Christi, in Manila. In an interview with YouthPinoy, Santos said volunteer work for WYD will be a lot but making a contribution to the event through little or big tasks will be an avenue for ones faith to be in action. I have never been a WYD pilgrim, but being a WYD volunteer has been one of the most amazing things in my life! You will be able to experience how Jesus works through the little and big tasks that need to be done. You will be able to see how each one contributes to their love for Jesus through the efforts we have as one. The faith will be in action, and the whole catholic community becomes one big family, she said. Volunteer perks Santos added that unlike the pilgrims, volunteers get to see the events happening first hand through the special passes that they are given to access different activities, even those that are limited to very few audiences. Meeting and befriending other international volunteers are also part of the volunteers perks. The language barrier will be a challenge but Santos said that with God, nothing is impossibleeven communicating with non-

Cubao diocese urges youth to join WYD 2013

CUBAO Bishop Honesto Ongtioco has called on young people in his diocese to join the World Youth Day 2013 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. In a letter sent to parish priests, college presidents, campus ministers, religious superiors and young people Ongtioco said the diocese has decided to organize its own delegation so that they can journey together as a local Church of Cubao with committed and vibrant young people. We hope that young people will take advantage of this opportunity to rediscover, renew and share their faith and experience of God, Ongtioco said. As we journey during this year of faith, may your faith be enriched by this important event of the World Youth Day 2013, whether you actually go to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil or just join the participants in spirit, the bishop added. The Cubao delegation also released its timeline for WYD 2013 in the official website www. mycubao.org: Sept. 7, 2012: Start of sub-group registration; Oct. 13, 2012: Deadline for the subgroup registration; Oct. 20, 2012: Start of individual application; and Start of the submission of participation cost; Nov. 10, 2012: Sub-group orientation; Feb. 9, 2013: Deadline for individual application; Feb. 11, 2013: Subgroup leaders meeting; April 6, 2013: Deadline of submission of participation cost; June 28-29, 2013: Preparatory sessions; July 6-7, 2013: Delegation preparatory session; July 14-16, 2013: Departures for Brazil; July 17-21, 2013: Missionary Week (Augustinian of the Assumption, Sao Paulo, Brazil); July 23-28, 2013: World Youth Day 2013 proper; July 29, 2013: Delegation re-entry session; July 30-Aug. 3, 2013: Pilgrimage to St. Rose of Lima, Peru. (Jandel Posion)

English speaking international volunteers. I found myself spending my days in the JMJ (Jornada Mundial de la Juventud) office which became home for me and my co-volunteers. It was where we learned to appreciate the diversity in cultures, from learning to say hello in different languages, to adapting to the working styles of our coworkers from morning till night preparing for the big week, she recounted. Save, solicit, prepare The financial requirement of going to Rio de Janeiro for the WYD may be a tough challenge for both pilgrims and volunteers but Santos urged Filipinos to start saving and writing to sponsors and donors as preparation for the upcoming WYD that is scheduled on July 23 to 28, 2013. I would like to invite all Filipinos who can to try to go to WYD, because even if not everyone will be able to meet the Holy Fa-

ther, you will definitely meet Jesus through all the pilgrims, volunteers and your host families. The spirit that everyone has is a spirit that can never be replaced. The joy of the youth and how we are all one family in faith is so beautiful to witness and be part of, she said. Santos also encouraged parishes, schools and youth communities to set up activities parallel to the WYD for the benefit of those who could not come. If you are really not able to go, I strongly advise you to help encourage schools, universities, youth groups and parishes, to organize an event in your area to be one with the WYD celebrations. No matter how far away we are, Jesus is always connected to each one of us, especially through prayer, the Eucharist and love, she said. Registration of both pilgrims and volunteers can be processed online via http:// www.rio2013.com. (YouthPinoy)

www. wydcentral.org

Markings
INVESTED. Fourteen seminarians of the Sacred Heart Seminary in the Diocese of Bacolod had their clerical investiture on September 7, 2012. The seminarians who were invested were: Sem. Gerardo L. Caro, Jr. of Our Lady of Miraculous Medal Diocesan Shrine, Mansilingan, Bacolod City; Sem. Mike Bernard S. Caudal of San Diego Parish, Silay City; Sem. Michael Angelo G. Cubos of San Sebastian Parish, Bacolod City; Sem. Alexander D. Daguob of San Nicholas de Tolentino Parish, Talisay City; Sem. Kent C. Erdao of St. Roch Parish, Tanza, E.B. Magalona; Sem. Ulysses L. Fernandez of San Pedro Bautista Parish, Dos Hermanas, Talisay City; Sem. Giovani G. Garde of Our Mother of Perpetual Help Diocesan Shrine, Bacolod City; Sem. Gerald John B. Magbanua of Sacred Heart Diocesan Shrine, Bacolod City; Sem. Eddie Vicente V. Marquino of St. Mary Magdalene Parish, Hinigaran; Sem. Robert Kristoffer A. Nobles of Our Lady of Victory Parish, Victorias City; Sem. Rommel Falc G. Palivino of Immaculate Conception Parish, Murcia; Sem. Jeffrey S. Premaran of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish, Miranda, Pontevedra; Sem. Carl Anthony S. Quinto of Immaculate Conception Parish, Concepcion, Talisay City; and Sem. Lierry John B. Rebus of San Diego Parish, Silay City. Bishop Vicente Navarra presided the Mass with the Rites at the Sacred Heart Diocesan Shrine. CELEBRATED. The Daughters of Charity (DC) and the Damas de la Caridad celebrated the 52nd Foundation Anniversary of St. Vincents Home (SVH) on September 19, 2012. The event coincided with the 150th Anniversary of the Presence of the Daughters of Charity in the Philippines. With the theme Honoring 52 Years of Gods Magnificent Providence, a solemn concelebrated Mass was held at 9:30 a.m. at the SVH Chapel presided by Bacolod Bishop Vicente M. Navarra, D.D. Various activities were held during the occasion, including a fun walk with the lolos and lolas on September 16, the Blessing of Herbal and Organic Gardens on September 17, and the launching of Mother and Child Feeding Program on September 21. A psycho-spiritual talk on Creative Love Energy was also given on September 22, by Sr. Leticia Garcia, DC. The festivities culminated in the celebration of the feast of St. Vincent de Paul on September 27, with a Eucharistic Celebration at 10 a.m. in the same venue. DIED. Italian priest Fr. Giancarlo Bossi who was kidnapped in Mindanao in 2007 and was freed after 40 days in captivity died on September 23, 2012 in Italy. The missionary from the Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions (PIME), who had been struggling with lung cancer for a year, died in the Humanitas clinic in Rozzano sul Naviglio in Milan. Bossi, who stayed in the Philippines for 32 years, was born in Abbiategrasso in Milan on February 19, 1950. He entered PIME in Genoa in 1973, and took his perpetual vows on February 3, 1978 and was ordained a priest March 18, 1978. Bossi was in the news worldwide last June 2007 after armed men belonging to breakaway group from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front kidnapped him in Payao, Zamboanga Sibugay. During his month long captivity, Pope Benedict XVI made an appeal to his kidnappers and prayed for him. After his release on July 10, 2007, Bossi was brought back to Manila and was never assigned back again in Mindanao. Bossi returned to Italy the following month, where he had the opportunity to meet Benedict XVI during a gathering between the pontiff and the Italian youth in Loreto where he spoke about his ordeal. Upon his return to the Philippines in January 2008, Bossi said, I am happy to be back. He then wanted to return to Payao in Mindanao where he was kidnapped, but the bishops stopped him. Bossi settled at the PIMEs main headquarters in Paraaque for a year, before moving on to a mission in Western Mindoro.

Prayer encourages vocation, say local vocation directors

PRAYER is the weapon of every vocation promoter, according to local vocation promoters in New Manila area. Being in the vocation ministry is not easy, but with prayer, it serves as a weapon that will help us achieve a fruitful ministry. And with prayer, God will really send vocations, said Sr. Dideth Moralde, CM during the SPARK eventa fellowship night for vocationsheld at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish Shrine in Quezon City, In an interview with YouthPinoy, Moralde, who is the vocation director of Carmelite Missionaries, said that it is actually God who calls the young to religious life and they are just mere instruments that serve as bridge between the youth and God. Fr. Ramsom Rapirap, OCD, in his opening remarks during the event also reiterated Moraldes sentiments. He said the National Gathering of Vocation Directors in General Santos last April has challenged him and fellow directors to think of approaches on how to enflesh the theme Creating a Culture that Witnesses and Awakens Vocations in the Local Church. This was still a question to me not until July, when the Singles for Christ (SFC) invited me to take part in their Luzon-wide conference in Lucena. It was also an opportunity for us to promote vocation. Together with Sr. Dideth Moralde, CM, Sr. Rowena Remulta, DSA and Bro. Clinton Farrugia, MSSP, we had some sharing and asked each other about the importance of prayer in our ministry as vocation promoters, Rapirap said. The priest said the inspiration to organize a night of fellowship for young people was borne out of meeting and sharing faith with fellow vocation directors. It was just an inspiration to organize the youth, aspirants and young religious information to gather together for one night just to pray and share their vocation story, so that the young people we are ministering would be inspired also and be informed what really is religious life and to guide them on what path they are called to, Rapirap said. He hopes the activity could enkindle the fire within the young to heed their call for religious life. All of us are called in specific and unique vocation, but what we need to do is to try to ignite and let that spark inflame so that it would be burning in our hearts. Burning to drive us to serve not only our fellow youth, but the Church and the whole community, he added. One of those who shared the story of religious vocation was Rev. Chin Sin Wee, a Carmelite deacon. Deacon Chin Sin Wee was a former businessman in Malaysia who converted to Catholicism. He entered the Carmelites two years after his conversion. Held September 7, SPARK: an evening of prayer, renewal and fellowship, was a night of prayer for vocation which aimed to share the importance of prayer for the vocation ministry and to ignite the vocation for religious life of the young participants. Almost 500 young people, aspirants, nuns, brothers and priests from 20 religious communities and youth groups within the area attended the event. (Jandel Posion)

Priest urges students to avoid plagiarism

A CATHOLIC priest called on the youth, especially students to avoid plagiarizing others works and respect intellectual property rights. Fr. Conegundo Garganta, CBCP Youth Commissions executive secretary urged students to avoid plagiarism and should always acknowledge the author or writer of the copied texts or phrase. Students must be taught, from elementary to college, on the importance of acknowledging the source of texts, statements, etc., that they will use in their assignments or projects. They must be taught that [it is unethical to plagiarize] and original authors dont absolutely prohibit using their work but are asking to be acknowledged, he said. I see it fair when someone attributes the original writing or text [to its author], whether in books or in any medium the composition was interpreted. I cannot say absolutely that this can lessen the act of plagiarism but a simple acknowledgement or attribution, is the least they can do to give respect to the original author, he furthered. Meanwhile, the National Youth Commission (NYC) through its chairman, USec. Leon Flores III reminded students that plagiarism is wrong. Flores emphasized that through seamless flow of information now provided especially by the internet, copy-pasting of ideas and some other forms of publications, it is important not to overlook the ethical practice of attribution to the original author. We should resist the temptation to copy-paste without proper attribution because that is still tantamount to stealing. Call it by any other name, but using someones work without attribution is stealing, he said. (Jandel Posion)

CBCP Media

CBCP Monitor
Vol. 16 No. 20
September 24 - October 7, 2012

Pastoral Concerns

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Building up the Body of Christ and Strengthening our Faith through the New Evangelization
(The Keynote Address of Most Rev. Jesse Mercado, bishop of Paraaque and Chairman of the Episcopal Commission on Lay Apostolate, at the opening of the National Laity Week, held in Cebu on September 23, 2012)

Lay and Church leaders led by Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma, CBCP president, and Paraaque Bishop Jesse Mercado, chairman of the Episcopal Commission on Lay Apostolate came together to celebrate the shared mission for new evangelization at the opening of National Laity Week 2012.

Context 1. The world in which Christs disciples are called to witness to the Gospel of life today is marked by rapid change. Some changes are ephemeral, others endure for generations. Yet what makes these changes today special is the spirit of post-modernism that pervades not only the young but even some of their elders. This post-modern spirit is discernible not only in the eclectic and contextualized renderings of classical traditional musicfor example, by Grace Nono who hails from Agusan. It is also felt in the ways we deal with the information overload that is the boon of globalization, public education, mass communication, social networking and Wikipedia. Professor Randy David spoke to us bishops of three ways of thinking: traditional, modern and postmodern. The Philippines is considered a traditionally Christian country in which our origins, culture, nation and destiny are interpreted and projected in fairly stable Christian terms. Modernity distinguishes the spheres of the spirit and of nature, recognizes the separation of Church and State based on a proper understanding of their respective competences. Postmodernity questions all this and takes for granted the fragmentation of reality, the illusion of authority and the primacy of authentic experience. Some see postmodernity in the loss of a sense of the sacred, the breakdown of the family and the negative prejudice against authority.1 Do we see all this as a threat against Christian faith? Or as an opportunity for Christian mission? I submit that we must get our act together and focus on the mission entrusted to us by Jesus: we must keep ourselves updated (aggiornamento) so that we can engage our fellowmen and women and build the Catholic communio that Christ sends into missio. 2012 is a Year of Grace 2. We mark on 11 October 2012firstthe 50th anniversary of the opening of the Second Vatican Council andsecond the 20 th anniversary of the promulgation of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, the opus magnum of Blessed Pope John Paul II. The Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, has thus called for a Year of Faith a summons to an authentic and renewed

conversion to the Lord, the one Saviour of the world2. Twenty years after the Second Plenary Council of the Philippines, we still remember those fiery catch phrases: community of disciples, Church of the poor, renewed integral evangelization and lay empowerment. We recall them and we discern that they are ever more relevant, especially today, exactly four weeks away from the canonization of the first Visayan martyr, Blessed Pedro Calungsod. A young mana teenager!whom we will finally number among St. Stephen, the first martyr; Sts. Charles Borromeo and Robert Bellarmine, the patron saints of catechists; Sts. Francis Xavier and Thrse of the Child Jesus, the patron saints of missionaries How cool is that?! Questions for a new evangelization 3. The Year of Faith will begin with the XIII Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops which will discuss The New Evangelization for the Transmission of the Christian Faith in order to usher the whole Church into a time of particular reflection and rediscovery of the faith3. Evangelization is the ordinary task of the community of Jesus disciples: proclaiming and bearing witness to the Christian life through liturgy, catechesis and works of charity: faith is professed, celebrated, lived and prayed. New evangelization, as Blessed Pope John Paul II explained, is not merely re-evangelization. It is new in its ardor, methods and expression4. Together with the coming Synod of Bishops, let us ask the following questions: How do we proclaim Jesus and His message of the Fathers Reign in language understandable to the people of our times? One hears of the increasing number of attendees in many renewal movements and even of born again Christian groups. What are they doing that we are not doing? High School and College students find our messages and preaching boring and unappealing. What do we do to make our preaching come alive? A company spends millions of dollars to sell its new product. How do we sell the Gospel today that will evoke a positive response for the people? Howdowebuildcommunion

in the church, especially in matters of morality? How can we promote a Catholic consensus regarding the RH bill? How do we connect more positively with Christians of other denominations without engaging into debates and even apologetics? How can the Church in the Philippines be a more missionary Church, sending missionaries to countries all over the world? Strengthening the Christian faith The new evangelization has one goal: to draw every Christian to a more intimate relationship with Jesus. The heart of the Christian message is not a set of doctrines and moral codes or liturgical rituals. The heart is the God-man, Jesus Christ. We must rediscover the heart of evangelization: the experience of Christian faiththe encounter with Jesus Christ, God the Fathers Gospel to humanity, which transforms us, gathers us together and introduces us, through the gift of the Spirit, to a new life, already experienced by us in the present, precisely in our being gathered as the Church. This new life is the cause of our joy which compels us, as witnesses and joyful heralds of the gift received, to travel the streets of the world, awaiting the fulfillment of the Kingdom of God. Thus, opportunities of encountering Jesus must be provided by the Church. Or rather we, including Priests and Bishops, must learn to recognize the Spirit who is providing us these opportunities through renewal movements, mandated organizations, BECs, youth ministries, etc. A Spirit-led and Spirit-filled dialogue is key: dialogue with the young, dialogue with the family, dialogue with the poor. Building up the Body of Christ How do we package the Gospel today? What methods must the Church use in order to appeal to the masses of the people? First, renewal of the clergy is paramount in the agenda of the new evangelization. In every historical event of great Church renewal, the renewal of the clergy takes front seat. This includes deepening priestly spirituality and equipping clergy with communication skills and management competence. Second, the new evangelization builds on the

laitys greater commitment and willingness to be the vanguard of the Church. Integral faith formation is therefore essential to all members of the Church: lay, religious and clergy5. Third, missio ad gentes: the health of the local Church is visible and felt in its willingness to send missionaries abroad. Fourth, the future of the Church rests on the young people of our times. Just like Blessed Pedro Calungsod, the young, especially teenagers, are challenged to take responsibility for their own formation in faith and for the evangelization of their peers. Together with their parents, teachers and elders, young people can evangelize the future Church today! The Primacy of Grace in the Church Let us step back and take a deep breath. Let us go back to catechesis and prayer and the challenge to form men and women of the Spirit. I have noticed that the following draw people to the Gospel, help them listen to the Word and confirm them in the faith: the witness of joy in the life of Catholics, even in the midst of persecution; the authenticity and credibility of the life of clerics; and the experience of God in prayer (yes, even in the liturgy and especially in the liturgy). All this naturally inspires people to engage in charity in the family, among friends and colleagues, in civil society, etc. Charity does begin at home, but there is also social and political charity that makes us love the common good6, it makes us effectively seek the good of all people, considered not only as individuals or private persons but also in the social dimension that unites them 7. It is this charity that urges us to respect the dignity of human persons, defend the sanctity of human life from conception to natural death, promote the natural family as God willed it, and work for justice, peace and the integrity of creation. After the family and the parish, the privileged locus of this joyful charity is the BEC, the new way of being Church. The new evangelization and catechesis How do we equip ourselves for true Charity in the new evangelization? Integral

evangelization calls for integral faith formation, integral catechesis! Forming in Catholics a conscience that is capable of sentire cum Ecclesia (thinking with the Church means listening to the Word of the Father, feeling with the heart of Christ, committing ourselves with the force of the Spirit) Integral faith formation equips laypersons and clerics to discern the truth from the latest mere theological speculation or the latest masks of anti-Christian ideologies. Catechesis has to be integral because many forms of biblical catechesis reduce Revelation to what the most recent biblical expert can draw from the Bible through the historico-critical method only. This is hardly enough and the people feel it. For Pope Benedict XVI , we must balance the historico-critical method with an exegesis that respects the unity and divine inspiration of Sacred Scripture. The Fathers of the Church, the witness and writings of martyrs and saints, the liturgies and theologies of all the Churches (Latin and Eastern)... we have to be brave enough to draw from the whole of Sacred Tradition. Otherwise, Christian living risks breathing only with one lung instead of two. Without reference to the cloud of witnesses8, Christianity is reduced to an idea and preaching to the latest fad in psychology that does not really widen our horizons nor open our hearts for deeper friendship with Jesus. Many people experience that when Christianity becomes an idea, it simply competes in the marketplace of ideas; but when martyrs and saints show us that Christianity is a relationship (prayer), it turns the marketplace into a pulpit whether for the silent majority or the little flock. The new evangelization and prayer The Church has always lived in the world. Despite not being of the world, the Church has taken in what is good in the world. But the world has always been materialistic and secularising. We dont expect it to be otherwise. The major religions, in various ways, have borne witness to the spiritual ground of human existence and have served as the memory of God in humanity. The new areopagi (areas of new evangelization, e.g., Internet, social justice) pose new challenges, but would they really change the dynamic of

Revelation and faith? The 24hour news cycle, the apparent immediacy of social networking, the ascendancy of the scientific method, the resurgence of elitist ideologies (sometimes masquerading as populist fundamentalism) and the various aspects of post-modernity... these challenge Catholics to greater transparency and accountability. Accountability: we must be ready to give a respectful and gentle account of the hope that is in us9. Transparency: our joy and our witness must be so authentic that we can almost expect the rewards of a good evangelizer: in the world to come, eternal life; in this world, the hundredfold and persecution10! My brothers and sisters, the Catholic Church lay men and women, consecrated brothers and sisters, priests and bishops is known in the Philippines as the conscience of the nation and the foundation of a culture of service and life. In order to build the Body of Christ and strengthen our faith for the New Evangelization, that conscience has to be fully catechized and that foundation must be Christian prayer. Daghang salamat kaninyong tanan. Blessed Pedro Calungsod, pray for us. +Jesse e. Mercado, D.D. Bishop of Paraaque Chairman of the Episcopal Commission on the Laity

FOOTNOTES 1 For example, how easily did people believe the headline Pajero bishops? And yet, no bishop received a single Pajero. What they received were mere utility vehicles, some were even second- and third-hand. Moreover, they used the vehicles for bringing aid to the poor, transporting the sick and other charitable endeavors. There is a negative prejudice against people in authority, whether in government or in religion. 2 Apostolic Letter motu proprio data Porta fidei for the indiction of the Year of Faith, 6. 3 Ibid., 4. 4 Discurso a la Asamblea del CELAM, 9 March 1983. 5 Cf. NCDP. 6 Paul VI, Address to the Food and Agriculture Association on the twentyfifth anniversary of its foundation (16 November 1970). 7 Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church, 207. 8 Letter to the Hebrews 12:1. 9 cf 1 Peter 3:15 10 Cf. The Gospel according to Mark 10:30.

Photo courtesy of Maribel Descallar

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Votive offices in the Liturgy of the Hours
(Father Edward McNamara, professor of liturgy at the Regina Apostolorum University, answers the following query:) Q: I am a seminarian and I just started praying the Liturgy of the Hours. My question is: Are there votive Liturgy of the Hours akin to votive Masses? Would it be acceptable, for instance, to pray the office of the Sacred Heart on liturgically free first Fridays? I dont remember anything in the instruction, and the book only seems to have an office of the Blessed Mother for Saturday as far as anything resembling a votive office in the back. I asked three priests at the seminary and got three different answers. -- M.S., Rome A: This topic is dealt with in the Introduction to the Divine Office, especially in Nos. 245-252. This text says: 245. For a public cause or out of devotion, except on solemnities, the Sundays of the seasons of Advent, Lent, and Easter, Ash Wednesday, Holy Week, the octave of Easter, and 2 November, a votive office may be celebrated, in whole or in part: for example, on the occasion of a pilgrimage, a local feast, or the external solemnity of a saint. 246. In certain particular cases there is an option to choose texts different from those given for the day, provided there is no distortion of the general arrangement of each hour and the rules that follow are respected. 247. In the office for Sundays, solemnities, feasts of the Lord listed in the General Calendar, the weekdays of Lent and Holy Week, the days within the octaves of Easter and Christmas, and the weekdays from 17 to 24 December inclusive, it is never permissible to change the formularies that are proper or adapted to the celebration, such as antiphons, hymns, readings, responsories, prayers, and very often also the psalms. In place of the Sunday psalms of the current week, there is an option to substitute the Sunday psalms of a different week, and, in the case of an office celebrated with a congregation, even other psalms especially chosen to lead the people step by step to an understanding of the psalms. 248. In the office of readings, the current cycle of sacred Scripture must always be respected. The Churchs intent that a more representative portion of the holy Scriptures will be read to the people in the course of a prescribed number of years applies also to the divine office. Therefore the cycle of readings from Scripture that is provided in the office of readings must not be set aside during the seasons of Advent, Christmas, Lent, and Easter. During Ordinary Time, however, on a particular day or for a few days in succession, it is permissible, for a good reason, to choose readings from those provided on other days or even other biblical readings -- for example, on the occasion of retreats, pastoral gatherings, prayers for Christian unity, or other such events. 249. When the continuous reading is interrupted because of a solemnity or feast or special celebration, it is allowed during the same week, taking into account the readings for the whole week, either to combine the parts omitted with others or to decide which of the texts are to be preferred. 250. The office of readings also offers the option to choose, with a good reason, another reading from the same season, taken from The Liturgy of the Hours or the optional lectionary (no. 161), in preference to the second reading appointed for the day. On weekdays in Ordinary Time and, if it seems opportune, even in the seasons of Advent, Christmas, Lent, and Easter, the choice is open for a semi-continuous reading of the work of a Father of the Church, in harmony with the biblical and liturgical context. 251. The readings, prayers, songs, and intercessions appointed for the weekdays of a particular season may be used on other weekdays of the same season. 252. Everyone should be concerned to respect the complete cycle of the four-week Psalter. Still, for spiritual or pastoral advantage, the psalms appointed for a particular day may be replaced with others from the same hour of a different day. There are also circumstances occasionally arising when it is permissible to choose suitable psalms and other texts in the way done for a votive office. Therefore, while these norms allow for wide latitude in adapting the office to special circumstances, their application would require a certain familiarity with the intricacies of the book and a certain level of theological and liturgical formation. There are also fewer options for votive offices in the Liturgy of the Hours than there are for votive Masses in the Roman Missal. One reason for this is the general preference for maintaining the full four-week cycle of psalms as far as possible. Therefore the above norms would suggest that votive offices be used above all for pastoral reasons and less so for motives of personal devotion such as on first Fridays. Another probable reason is the historical development of the Divine Office with respect to the Mass. Participation in the Liturgy of the Hours rapidly became the almost exclusive province of clergy and religious. Mass, by its very nature, is destined for all Catholics. It was therefore quite natural that, over time, people would be more likely to request a specific Mass according to their devotion than a particular office. Indeed, the very concept of a votive Mass is one which does not correspond to the canonical office of the day but is offered for a votum, or special intention. Ritual Masses and funerals would also be considered votive masses in a broad sense. There are already some traces of Masses celebrated for such special intentions in the writings of St. Augustine, although the term votive Mass first appears in liturgical books around the middle of the fifth century. Votive offices first appear several centuries later, usually corresponding to the devotion of religious orders. These were briefer supplementary offices to be prayed outside of the canonical hours in honor of the Trinity, Mary, the saints, the Holy Cross, for the dead, etc. It was these supplementary votive offices, rather than the Divine Office itself, which became popular with the educated laity in medieval times. Thus were formed the illustrated manuscripts called Books of the Hours, if in Latin, and primers, if in English. A particular form of votive office, the Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, was particularly diffused and was even an obligatory addition to the Divine Office for some religious orders. These prayer books were among the most popular of the Middle Ages, and many manuscripts are still extant. Over the course of several reforms of the Roman breviary a few votive offices, above all those dedicated to Mary, the saints and the dead, entered into the official text. Logically however, these were far less than those of the missal. The present missal distinguishes between Masses for various needs and occasions and votive Masses. The first class refers to formulas that implore graces for a wide range of ecclesial or civil circumstances, whereas votive Masses are celebrated in honor of the Divine Persons, of Mary, and of the saints. It would appear that only the latter form would be subject to a votive office alongside the office for the dead. There are no specific offices in the breviary that correspond to the missals Masses for various needs and occasions.

Updates

CBCP Monitor
Vol. 16 No. 20
September 24 - October 7, 2012

Academic Freedom in a Catholic University: The Ateneo Question

(Part III: The Juridic Safeguarding of Catholic Doctrine)
truths definitively proposed by the Universal Magisterium (either solemn or ordinary) to be believed as formally revealed i.e., contained in the sources of Revelation. This paragraph appropriately confirms and is provided for in c.750,1 of Code of Canon Law: Those things are to be believed by divine and catholic faith which are contained in the word of God as it has been written or handed down by tradition, that is, in the single deposit of faith entrusted to the Church, and which are at the same time proposed as divinely revealed either by the solemn Magisterium of the Church, or by its ordinary and universal Magisterium, which in fact is manifested by the common adherence of Christs faithful under the guidance of the sacred Magisterium. All are therefore bound to avoid any contrary doctrines. 2nd Category of truths: De fide tenenda. The formula further states: I also firmly accept and hold each and everything definitively proposed by the Church regarding teaching on faith and morals. The faithful are obliged to give accept and hold these truths not insofar as these belong to Revelation, but insofar as they are being definitively proposed by the Church. assent of faith, is to be paid to the teaching which the Supreme Pontiff or the college of bishops enunciate on faith or morals when they exercise the authentic magisterium even if they do not intend to proclaim it with a definitive act; therefore the Christian faithful are to take care to avoid whatever is not in harmony with that teaching. To put teeth to otherwise theoretical precepts, the Holy Father Benedict XVI promulgated the much-publicized Norms on Delicta Graviora on 21.V.2010, which dealt with the more serious crimes (1) against the faith, (2) against the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist, (3) against the Sacrament of Penance and (4) of sexual abuse of minors by clerics. What hugged the limelight were the provisions regarding the sexual abuse of minors by clerics, but of more interest to us now are the provisions regarding the first category of the so-called delicta graviora, which are as follows: Art.2 1. The delicts against the faith referred to in Art.1 are heresy, apostasy and schism according to the norm of cc.751 and 1364 of the Code of Canon Law, and cc.1436 and 1437 of the Code of Canons of the Eastern Churches. 2. In the abovementioned

By Fr. Jaime Blanco Achacoso, J.C.D.

AT the core of the apologia pro academia sua of Ateneo de Manila University President Fr. Jose Ramon Villarin, S.J.and related articles of Fr. Bernas, SJare two fundamental errors: (1) the failure to appreciate the identity of the Catholic University, and (2) the failure to appreciate the infallible nature of the Catholic Churchs teaching regarding the intrinsic immorality of contraception. In the previous installment of this long article, we had seen the constitutive characteristics of the Catholic identity of a Catholic University, as articulated in the document Ex corde Ecclesiae; we had also seen how the behavior of the 192 faculty members of the Ateneo de Manila and the subsequent apologia of their President, fall quite short of such an identity. Before tackling the second error in the concluding installment of this long article, I would like to dwell on the juridic safeguarding of the doctrine of the Faith. This answers the question of what the Church specifically the bishop of the diocese, within whose jurisdiction the AdMU liescan do as regards the Ateneo Question. Canon Law has the adequate juridic safeguards for the authenticity of the Gospel message and its propagation. This safeguarding is anchored on three institutions, which have enjoyed re-formulation in recent years. The Professio fidei On 9.I.1989, the S.C. for the Doctrine of the Faith published new formulas for the Professio Fidei and the Iusiurandum fidelitatis in suscipiendo officio nomine Ecclesiae exercendo, which were approved by the Roman Pontiff in a special Rescript dated 19.IX.1989. The Code of Canon Law stipulates that the following persons are obliged to make a profession of faith personally in accord with the formula approved by the Apostolic See (c.833): 1 all persons who take part with either a deliberative or consultative vote in an ecumenical or particular council, in a synod of bishops, or in a diocesan synod; 2 those promoted to the sacred college of cardinals; 3 all persons promoted to the episcopacy and those equivalent to a diocesan bishop; 4 the diocesan consultor; 5 vicars general, episcopal vicars and vicars judicial; 6 pastors, the rector of the seminary, the professors of theology and philosophy in seminaries, those to be promoted to the order of deacons (emphasis added); 7 the rector of an ecclesiastical or Catholic university at the beginning of his term of office, and teachers in any university who teach disciplines which deal with faith or morals (emphasis added); 8 the superiors in clerical religious institutes and societies of apostolic life, in accord with the norms of the constitutions (emphasis added). Applied to the Ateneo question, these means all the Jesuit priests (6 above), whoever among the 192 AdMU professors are teaching courses that touch on faith and morals (e.g., sociology, psychology, history, philosophy, history, economics, law, as per 7 above), and of course the Jesuit Provincial (8 above). The Local Ordinary can enforce this requirement. Canonical Definition of Assent and Penalization of Unlawful Dissenti.e., Heresy. The Professio Fidei enumerates three specific kinds of propositions that the Magisterium teaches and to which the believer is obliged to adhere. 1st Category of truths: De fide credenda. The formula states: With firm faith, I also believe everything contained in the Word of God, whether written or handed down in Tradition, which the Church either by a solemn judgment of by the ordinary and universal Magisterium sets forth to be believed as divinely revealed. These are

It was for the safeguarding of this category of truths that a 2 was added to c.750 of the CIC 1983 through the Motu Proprio Ad Tuendam of 1998: Furthermore, each and everything set forth definitively by the Magisterium of the Church regarding teaching on faith and morals must be firmly accepted and held, namely those things required for the holy keeping and faithful exposition of the deposit of faith; therefore, anyone who rejects propositions which are to be held definitively sets himself against the teaching of the Catholic Church. The typification of the corresponding delict was also made by making the corresponding modifications in c.1371, 1 to refer to the new c.750,2: The following are to be punished with a just penalty: 1 a person who, apart from the case mentioned in c.1364, 1, teaches a doctrine condemned by the Roman Pontiff, or by an Ecumenical Council, or obstinately rejects the teachings mentioned in c.750, 2 or in c.752 and, when warned by the Apostolic See or by the Ordinary, does not retract. It is to this category that the Church teaching on the intrinsic immorality of contraception belongs. Thus, anyone who knowingly rejects the Church teaching regarding the intrinsic evil of contraception sets himself against the teaching of the Catholic Church and is guilty of heresy. 3rd Category of truths: Finally, the formula states: Moreover I adhere with submission of will and intellect to the teachings which either the Roman Pontiff or the College of Bishops enunciate when they exercise their authentic Magisterium, even if they do not intend to proclaim these teachings by a definitive act. This paragraph has its c o r re s p o n d i n g l e g i s l a t i v e expression in c.752 of the Code of Canon Law: A religious respect of intellect and will, even if not the

cases referred to in 1, it pertains to the Ordinary or Hierarch to remit, by norm of law, if it be the case, the latae sententiae excommunication and likewise to undertake a judicial trial in the first instance or issue an extrajudicial decree, with due regard for the right of appeal or of recourse to the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. Thus, the delicts against the faithheresy, apostasy and schismare not reserved to the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, but rather fall under the competence of the local Ordinary. Thus, it is perfectly within the competence of the bishop of the diocese where the Ateneo belongs to undertake a judicial trial in the first instance, or to issue an extrajudicial decree of excommunication for the more grave delict of heresy, against any professor (priest or layman) denying the intrinsic immorality of contraception by supporting the RH Bill which is essentially pro-contraception. All these of course depend on whether or not the doctrine on the immorality of contraception is indeed definitive Catholic doctrine (which we shall tackle in the final and concluding part of this article). The Mandatum On 15.VIII.1990, John Paul II issued the encyclical Ex corde Ecclesiae, which in his own words was meant to be a magna carta for Catholic Universities and similar schools of higher educationin the same way that he had issued the Apostolic Constitution Sapientia Christiana for the Ecclesiastical Universities and Faculties on 15.IV.1979. The following extensive quotations from Article 4 (The University Community) of the dispositive part of that document are selfexplanatory:

1. The identity of a Catholic university is essentially linked to the quality of its teachers and to respect for Catholic doctrine. It is the responsibility of the competent authority to watch over these two fundamental needs in accordance with what is indicated in Canon Law. 2. All teachers and all administrators, at the time of their appointment, are to be informed about the Catholic identity of the institution and its implications, and about their responsibility to promote, or at least to respect, that identity. 3. In ways appropriate to the different academic disciplines, all Catholic teachers are to be faithful to, and all other teachers are to respect, Catholic doctrine and morals in their research and teaching. In particular, Catholic theologians, aware that they fulfill a mandate received from the Church, are to be faithful to the Magisterium of the Church as the authentic interpreter of Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition. 4. Those university teachers and administrators who belong to other churches, ecclesial communities, or religions as well as those who profess no religious belief, and also all students, are to recognize and respect the distinctive Catholic identity of the university. In order not to endanger the Catholic identity of the university or institute of higher studies, the number of non-Catholic teachers should not be allowed to constitute a majority within the institution, which is and must remain Catholic. 5. The education of students is to combine academic and professional development with formation in moral and religious principles and the social teachings of the Church; the program of studies for each of the various professions is to include an appropriate ethical formation in that profession. Courses in Catholic doctrine are to be made available to all students. On the other hand, the Code of Canon Law specifies the responsibility of the Conference of Bishops and the diocesan bishops in this regard, in c.810, 2: The conference of bishops and the diocesan bishops concerned have the duty and right of being vigilant that in these universities the principles of Catholic doctrine are faithfully observed. Finally, the responsibility of the diocesan bishop is further specified in the institution of the mandatum to teach, in. c.812: It is necessary that those who teach theological disciplines in any institute of higher studies have a mandate from the competent ecclesiastical authority. Conclusion From the foregoing discussion, it should be clear that the Bishop of the diocese has the authority to make the AdMU toe the line as far as the Church teachings on a host of doctrinal and moral issues (the intrinsic immorality of contraception is just one of them; the intrinsic immorality of homosexuality and proper liturgical praxis could be others), by putting into play any of the following mechanisms provided by Canon Law: Enforce the oath of fidelity requirement for all professors teaching matters touching on faith and morals. Enforce the requirement for a mandate from the Bishop for anyone to teach theology. Of course, such a mandate would be premised on having to pass a qualifying examination on doctrinal orthodoxy. Enforce the Bishops right (and obligation) to oversee the Catholic identityaccording to the parameters set forth by Ex corde Ecclesiaein the AdMU campus. Initiate a judicial processor simply issue an extra-judicial decreeto apply the automatic excommunication that open dissent to the teachings of Humanae vitae regarding the immorality of contraception implies for a Catholic, after due warning. [To be concluded.]

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CBCP Monitor
Vol. 16 No. 20
September 24 - October 7, 2012

Year of the Missions

it is what Christ did on earth. This mission is a task entrusted by Christ to the Church, Mesiona said. The Gospel has to be proclaimed to all nation, men and women of all ages, according to the Churchs Magisterium. So far, the mission in our times is still very far from what God has desired. And in our country, there are still areas that need missionaries, he added. Mesiona pointed out that with the advent of the new evangelization, the four pillars of mission should be focused, such as: the involvement of the lay people, brothers and sisters in the faith, priests, seminarians and men and women religious; bringing good news to the poor, that the Church here must become a Church for and with the poor; reaching out to all those who have drifted from the Catholic faith and have joined other sects; and lastly, the awakening or re-awakening in faith, forming and animating in Christian life our young people in both urban and rural areas. He introduced the PMS that aims to promote vocation and increase the missionary consciousness of all the baptized. He also discussed the four missionary societies namely: Propagation of Faith, St. Peter the Apostles, Missionary Union and the Holy Childhood. (Jandel Posion)

B3

Manila catechists deepen missionary awareness

AS part of the ongoing formation of all catechists in the Archdiocese of Manila, 253 catechists and 9 coordinators from the Catechetical Foundation of the Archdiocese of Manila (CFAM) held a workshop at the San Carlos Pastoral Formation Complex in Makati City last July 20. Pontifical Mission Societies (PMS) National Director Fr. Socrates Mesiona, MSP, talked about mission as the primary task of the Church. The heart and soul of the Church is mission and its task is to preach the Good News to the world and to make Jesus be known to all. Mission on the other hand is a call, the vocation for all baptized persons because

Fr. Socrates Mesiona, MSP, and Mr. Anthony Dameg of the Pontifical Mission Society (PMS) together with different head Catechists of the Archdiocese of Manila at a workshop held at the San Carlos Pastoral Formation Complex last July 20.

(Lifted from the book of Fr. Ildebrando Jesus Alio Leyson titled Pedro Calonsor Bissaya: Prospects of a Teenage Filipino)
THE accounts of the martyrdom of Padre Diego Luis de San Vitores refer to Pedro Calungsod as his dichoso compaero not only because merecio la dicha de acompaar al Venerable Padre en su muerte, but also because habia profesado constant [ la fe] hasta la muerte. Pedro Calungsod murio gloriosamente por la fe as a buen Soldado de Cristo, and thereby logro la palma del martirio. Having died ahead of Padre Diego, he was considered as Padre Diegos precursor en el Cielo. Since Pedro Calungsod and Padre Diego had been companions both in life and in death, and since both of them underwent the same ordeal, some documents explicitly consider them together as a pair of martyrs and their remains as equally venerable: I due venerabili corpi dagli stessi uccisori furtono Seppelliti nel mare. (The two venerable bodies were buried in the sea By the same assassins. Martyrdom 12, p. 88) la chapelle bastie, et une Croix elevee dans Iendroit ou les deux martyrs avoient repandu la Plus grande partie de leur sang. (The chapel was build and cross was Raised in the place where the two martyrs had shed a great part of their Blood. Martyrdom 10, p. 85) In reality, however, the fame of martyrdom of Padre Calungsod would be overshadowed by that of Padre Diego even though Padre Calungsod was the first one to offer his life for the Faith and was Padre Diegos precursor en el Cielo de su martirio. But such would be the wish and happiness of Pedro Calungsod, whose life was characterized by a hidden dedicated humble service to God and to his fellowmen. Besides, there may be no doubt that Pedro Calungsod learned much from, and was himself also inspired by the exemplary life of Padre Diego. A memory lost in the past On 2 May 1672, one month after the death of Pedro Calungsod and Padre Diego, the ship San Diego made its first return to Guam only to find out that the two missionaries that it had brought to that island four years back were no more. However, it received the honor of bringing to the Philippines the good tidings of the martyrdom. When news of Padre Diegos death reached Manila, there was a great celebration, with the ringing of church bells and general rejoicing, faith overcoming grief, for the knowledge of Padre Diegos glory dried the tears of those who loved him. The College of the Society of Jesus went to the Manila Cathedral to sing the Te Deum. On the night of 10 June 1674, there was a display of fireworks and the ringing of church bells in Madrid, and on the following day a high Mass was celebrated. Meanwhile, in the Visayas, there was no ringing of church bells nor any singing of the Te Deum for Pedro Calungsod. The people merely continued with their dayto-day chores. Were the family of Pedro Calungsod informed about his death? Did the Jesuits care to show the tiniest gesture of gratitude and comfort to the generous and grieving parents of the boy who faithfully assisted the Jesuit superior of Mariana Mission up to the point of shedding his blood? We do not know. Does the fact that no Jesuit ever bothered to write down much information about Pedro Calungsodabout his family, his exact provenance, his background reflect a certain kind of indifferent attitude of the Jesuits towards their secular indio assistants? Not necessarily. Perhaps, it was not the custom of the time. Sometime in June 1674, the military commander of the Mariana Mission, Don Damian de Esplana erected a chapel on the very spot where Padre Diego was martyred. He also planted a cross on the spot where his blood had been burned, which is at the front of the chapel. He did this because he had so promised during an illness of which he was cured through the intercession of Padre Diego. This chapel and holy place were visited by some Jesuits who arrived in the Marianas on 4 June 1675. They kissed and reverenced the holy ground and gave thanks to God for permitting them to see that fortunate soil where the blood of the first apostle to these islands had been shed. On 9 January 1673, ten months after the death of Pedro Calungsod and Padre Diego, the first Process of the Cause for the Beatification of Padre Diego took place in Guam. Other successive Processes of the Cause for the Beatification of Padre Diego were held in Mexico (1676-1679), Manila (1676-1677) and Toledo (16881689). However, due to the suppression of the Society of Jesus in the 18th century, the Cause fell into oblivion and was taken up again only in the recent past. On 6 October 1985, Padre Diego was finally beatified by Pope John Paul II. Again, the martyrdom of Padre Calungsod did not receive the same attention as that of the Jesuit Superior of the Mariana Mission, Padre Diego; not even in Cebu where Pedro Calungsod was mentioned by witnesses during the Rogatorial Process there for the Beatification of Padre Diego on 12 November 1676 and on 25 January 1677. Had [Pedro Calungsod] belonged to a Religious Order, immediately after his death his brothers in Religion would have started the normal process that has been followed in cases of martyrs of led to emulate him and give the praise to our Father in heaven. Sixteen out of the forty documents from the 17th and the 18th centuries on the martyrdom of Padre Diego explicitly report also the martyrdom of Pedro Calungsod. When these documents were presented during the final Process of the Cause for the Beatification of Padre Diego in 1981, the case of Pedro Calungsod was also proposed but never included in that said processaccording to the VicePostulator of the said Cause, Fr. Juan Ledesma, S.J.it might have delayed the Process of Padre Diegos Beatification Cause. N e v e r t h e l e s s , t h e re c u r re n t mentioning of Pedro Calungsod in the Documentation of the Cause for Padre Diegos Beatification has finally brought the memory of that Filipino lay catechist and martyr to our day. After the Beatification of Padre Diego in 1985, interest for the Beatification of Pedro Calungsod started to develop in the Philippines, especially in the Archdiocese of Cebu in the Visayas, to which the young martyr belonged (at least by ecclesiastical jurisdiction). Although the documents give only very scant information about the past life of Pedro Calungsod as these only recount his death along with Padre Diegos, there was no serious want in order to process the Cause for his Tribunal and established the Commission of Experts in Historical Matters for the Cause on 15 November 1994 in the Archdiocese of Cebu. From that time on, as a candidate for Beatification Pedro Calungsod was given the title, Servant of God. The Diocesan Process was formally opened on the following 21 November. It went through eighteen sessions and gathered fifteen depositions of witnesses from Cebu and Manila who studied the documents that report the martyrdom of Pedro Calungsod. All the witnesses affirmed that the documents are authentic, reliable, and sufficient; that the Servant of God died a violent death; that he died for the Christian Faith; that his assassins acted out of hatred for the Christian Faith (in odium Fidei); and that his fame as a martyr has subsisted at least substantially even today. The Diocesan Process was formally concluded on 28 December 1994. The validity of the said Process was organized by the Vaticans Congregation for the Cause of Saints on 21 March 1997. The Positio Super Martyrio of Pedro Calungsodsystematic presentation of documents and arguments on the authenticity of the martyrdom of the Visayan ladwas prepared by this writer in Rome under the guidance of the postulator General of the Order of St. long lost past, and to honor him, their fellow Visayan, who won his crown of martyrdom in the island. At ten in the morning, they celebrated the Votive Mass of Blessed Diego Luis de San Vitores in Tomhom (Tomhon or Tumon) at the very site of the martyrdom of Pedro Calungsod and Blessed Diego where there is a shrine. The Mass was joined in by the Archbishop of Agaa, the Most Reverend Anthony Sablan Apuron, O.F.M. Cap.; the Jesuit community in the Marianas; the migrant Filipinos there, and some Guamanians, opposite the altar, a table was placed on which Archbishop Apuron displayed the catana whichtradition saysHirao used in killing Pedro Calungsod, thereby bringing back the memory of the painful death that the young catechist had suffered there. Archbishop Apuron gave Cardinal Vidal a replica of the image of Santa Marian Kamalen, the Patroness of Guam, and a portion of the cassock of Blessed Padre Diego. After the Mass, Cardinal Vidal, Archbishop Apuron, this writer and a Guamanian lad, named Joe Salgado, got into a rubber boat in Tomhon beach and drove out into the bay towards the edge of Tomhon reef that is marked with moderate surf. There, Cardinal Vidal and Archbishop Apuron scattered sampaguita blooms from the Philippines as a sign of honor, remembrance and affection towards that young martyr from Visayas whose body had been dumped into the same sea over three centuries back. Meanwhile, the rest of the people were watching from afar, at the beach. After that simple, but moving ceremony, a festive lunch was tendered by the Visayan community of Guam to all those present right there at the same place of Pedro Calungsods martyrdom in Tomhon shore. Visayan songs were played. One could hear conversations in Bisaya, the native language of Pedro Calungsod that was the first festive gathering in honor of the young martyr. After lunch, the pilgrim group grew in number, that included Archbishop Apuron, some of his relatives, office assistants, and friends. They visited a place, named Faifai, which probably was the site of the hamlet where Pedro Calungsod and Blessed Padre Diego slept the night before their martyrdom. The following day, Sunday, 31 January, at nine in the morning, the pilgrims celebrated the Mass with Filipinos and Guamanians at the Dulce Nombre de Maria Cathedral-Basilica of Hagatha (Agada, Agaa), not very far from the spot where the Jesuits main residence of San Ignacio once stood. At the end of the Mass, Cardinal Vidal presented a replica of the image of the Santo Nio de Cebu to Archbishop Apuron as a sign of the bond between the two ecclesiastical territories, the Mariana having been part of the old Diocese of Cebu, the Santisimo Nombre de Jesus, during the time of Pedro Calungsod. In the afternoon of the same day, the pilgrims visited the sites of the villages where Pedro Calungsod and Blessed Padre Diego had been on the day before their martyrdom: Nisihan, Guay and Pagat. Nothing is left of the old villages, only jungles, except a part of Nisihan which has now become a beautiful golf course. In each of these sites, this writer recounted to his fellow pilgrims what apostolic work Pedro Calungsod and Blessed Padre Diego had done there, then, Cardinal Vidal would lead the pilgrims in reciting the prayer for the Beatification of Pedro Calungsod. Next, the group visited Guma Pedro (Pedros House), a Jesuit residence in Yona, municipality of Guam, dedicated to the memory of Pedro Calungsod since 1989. There in the garden of the residence, Cardinal Vidal planted a narra tree, the national tree of the Philippines, to mark his visit. Once more, the pilgrims prayed for the Beatification of Pedro Calungsod. From Yona, they drove down the southern-eastern coast of the island until they came to Aga Point, the probable site of Paa, the village where the Chinese Choco lived. There, they also recited the Prayer for the Beatification of Pedro Calungsod.
Pedro / B7

Pedro Calungsod: Forgotten, but not Forever

Archbishop-emeritus of Cebu Ricardo Cardinal Vidal, together with the Cebu clergy studying in Rome pose with a statue of soon-to-be Saint Pedro Calungsod.

their own Religious family. The canonical process is too complex and difficult. That is why most saints and blessed belong to Religious families. But it could also be that the missionaries in the Marianasas devoted sons of Padre Diegowanted their superior to be the first to be given the honors at the altar; after which, perhaps they could later start the processes for the others who had also offered their lives for the Mission. It just so happened that they never lived to see the Cause for the Beatification of Padre Diego concluded, thereby leaving also the possible planned processed for the other martyrs of the Mariana Mission unrealized. The memory of Pedro Calungsod died together with those who knew him personally: his family, friends and companion missionaries. Centuries passed until no one in the Philippines or in Guamnot even the Calungsod clanknew anymore that there once lived a boy from the Visayas, named Pedro Calungsod, who heroically died for his faith in Christ. Could this be the desire of Pedro Calungsod himself, to be forgotten, so that all glory and honor may be given to God alone? Recovering the forgotten martyr But it must have been Gods will that the memory of Pedro Calungsod be safely kept in long-forgotten documents so that, at the opportune time, the light of the exemplary life of that young Visayan missionary catechist and martyr should shine in the sight of people and, seeing his good works, they might be

Beatification, for in the words of Pius XI: Sola mo rest in qua residet heroicitas. Ideoque vitam anteactam inqurere non expedit. Fr. Juan Ledesma, S. J., who wrote the Positio Super Vita et Martyrio of Padre Diego, gathered into one volume all those documents on Padre Diego that also recount the martyrdom of Pedro Calungsod. The Archbishop of Cebu, Ricardo Cardinal Vidal, presented a copy of this volume to the Congregation for the Causes of Saints in Rome on 25 September 1993. The then Prefect of the said Congregation, Angelo Cardinal Felici, recognized the importance of the documents that were presented, and outlined the necessary procedure for the start of the Process of the Cause for the Beatification of Pedro Calungsod. After having received the necessary permission from the Most Reverend Anthony Sablan Apuron, O.F.M. Cap., Archbishop of Agana (Agada, Guam), on 6 January 1994 to instruct the Cause for the Beatification of Pedro Calungsod; after having consulted the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines and obtained a unanimous and favorable endorsement of the Cause on 29 January 1994; after having constituted and designated the Diocesan Postulator on 14 February 1994; and after having obtained the Nihil Obstat of the Cause from the Congregation for the Causes of Saints on 7 October 1994, the Archbishop of Cebu, Ricardo Cardinal Vidal, formally introduced the Cause for the Beatification of Pedro Calungsod, gave the order for its Process, constituted the Diocesan

Augustine, Fr. Fernando Rojo-Martinez, O.S.A., and of Realtor of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, Msgr. Jose Luis Gutierrez-Gomez, and was completed on 2 April 1998. Copies of the twohundred-twenty-four-paged volume were submitted to the Congregation for the Cause of Saints on the following 25 June for the careful study, deliberation and judgment of the Vaticans experts in history and theology. At the start, only the name Pedro Calungsod was heard by the people in the Visayas and Mindanao, especially during the general intercessions at Sunday Masses. What is so interesting about that very common name? There was no sufficient information about him. Peopleeven bishops and priests in the Philippineshad little or no idea at all about who Pedro Calungsod was. Because of that, many of them remained indifferent to the Cause and some, tired of hearing a name that did not strike a chord at all, willfully omitted the petition for the Cause during the General Intercessions at Sunday Masses. But then, little by little, people started to discover Pedro Calungsod. Back to Guam On Saturday, 30 January 1999, the Archbishop of Cebu, Ricardo Cardinal Vidal; this writer; a Cebuano Jesuit collaborator, Fr. Jose Quilongquilong; and a layman from Loboc, Mr. Celestino Tumale, went to Guam to retrace the footsteps of the Servant of God, Pedro Calungsod, to get a glimpse of his

www.cebuarchdiocese.org

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Features

CBCP Monitor
Vol. 16 No. 20
September 24 - October 7, 2012

Consecrated Life towards a Collaborative Role in the Mission of the Church

Federation of Asian Bishops Conferences Office on Consecrated Life Symposium III; Hua Hin, Thailand; June 24 26, 2012
IT is good that we are here. We, the 80 delegates of Religious Women and Men, members of Secular Institutes, Priests, Brothers and Bishops, representing 16 countries of Asia, reflected and shared our experiences of being Church in the heart of Asia. We recognize the truth that as co-workers in the Kingdom of God, we are confronting realities of abject poverty, discrimination, exclusion and devastation of our God-given resources by the few and the powerful, and loss of respect for the value of life in the post-modern era. Marginalization in the spheres of politics, economy and religion is widespread, making our task and mission difficult, yet more challenging. Various cultures and the dialogue of life and faith have brought us here. We recognize our powerlessness as Church people and as consecrated persons. We recognize our dependency on the life and example of Jesus, the one we serve and love, who lived in poverty and who served unconditionally. It is good that we are hereto listen to each others stories of hope despite difficulties and differences. Indeed we are one body with many gifts that we can offer to the Church and to the peoples of Asia. Our stories showed that we are thinking as one Church. We recognize that our calling is based on the life and the mission of Jesus whose authority we share and exercise as consecrated religious, men and women from secular institutes, priests and bishops. We feel with the Church, we love the Church, and we submit to her authority, even as we recognize the unlovable human imperfections and sins of the institution. We are on the side of the Church, never to undermine her or betray her. We re-echo the words from Sollicitudo Rei Socialis, We may admonish her and suggest a better way but always within the bonds of love. Our sharing of thoughts leads us to work hard for communion to be realized fully in our respective missions despite the many given stories of differences. We are in an ongoing dialogue with the cultures, religions and the poor of Asia. We hold in common that this can be more fruitfully carried out by the bishops regard for the particular charisms of religious institutes as well as the institutes respect for the ministry of bishops in providing pastoral directives for the life of the diocese. The charisms of the religious congregations and secular institutes vis--vis the ministry of the bishops are two intimately linked expressions of the one ecclesial charity by which all work to build up the organic communioncharismatic and at the same time hierarchically structuredof the entire people of God. Recommendations To enhance the collaborative role of religious communities in the mission of the Church in Asia, particularly at the level of the particular churches, we delegates make the following recommendations: 1. Forging Relationships of Trust and a Spirituality of Communion There is need to foster relationships that create an atmosphere conducive to communion, relationships characterized by mutuality, respect for the dignity of the person, openness and acceptance of differences, readiness to forgive, cordiality, and mutual respect. This is particularly important in Asia where people are person- and communityoriented. 1. Invite the bishop to diocesan and congregational assemblies. 2. Encourage regular visitations of the bishop to the religious communities. 3. Organize regular fora for both religious and diocesan clergy. 4. Adopt and nurture an inclusive approach, upholding a common goal. This would result in a communion of charisms and gifts. 5. T h e r e s h o u l d b e f r a t e r n a l communication between the bishop and congregations in regard to the needs of the diocese and the charisms of congregations. 6. There is need for a deep spirituality to ground our efforts at collaboration on a solid foundation in the light of a growing secularism that is eroding Asian spiritual values. 7. Fidelity to the ongoing practice of dialogue as a preferred way to promote communion is a must. This presupposes the development of the spiritual and human dispositions and values that facilitate dialogue. 8. Create and consolidate structures of communion and for communion e.g., assemblies, consultative bodies, lifesharing groups, etc. 2. Creation of Diocesan Structures fostering Collaboration There is need for creating structures and arriving at written agreements to ensure long-term and sustainable relationships of collaboration. These structures and guidelines can prevent misunderstandings and conflicts that tend to undermine the evangelical mission of the local church. 1. Articulate a clear Vision-Mission Statement of the diocese as a guide and direction for the bishop, clergy, religious and lay faithful the entire people of God in the local Church. 2. Agree on a Pastoral Plan, regularly updated, to guide the bishop, clergy, religious and lay faithful. 3. Include religious priests, brothers and sisters in the commissions and consultative bodies of the diocese. 4. Put down agreements and contracts into writing (e.g., regarding land, years of stay, involvement in the ministries, etc.) for the security of tenure of the religious on the one hand and the promise of obedience and active participation in the ministries of the diocese on the other hand. 3. Creation of Common Formation Programs among Religious Congregations Common formation programs can help forge closer unity among religious congregations as well as with the diocesan clergy. Instead of competing, novices, junior sisters and seminarians can learn at an early stage to work together and share resources. 1. D e s i g n i n t e r- c o n g re g a t i o n a l formation programs among the novices of different institutes to share some of the common themes concerning the Church and her ministries. 2. Encourage an ongoing formation program for the bishop, superiors, clergy and consecrated persons. 3. Set up common dates and programs for vocations promotion among religious orders and the diocese so that the congregations that are faced with a decline of vocations may be helped by fellow Vocation Directors/Directresses. 4. Initiate joint formation programs both at initial and ongoing levels to raise the consciousness of religious, seminarians and priests on various issues affecting their relationships in pursuing the mission of the Church. 5. Establish accountability and transparency as core values with regard to the evangelical use of goods. Consecrated life is at the service of the Kingdom of God. It finds its embodiment in the ministries of the local church. It is good that we are here, and that we are sent to be part of the mission of the Church in Asia. In the consecrated life the proclamation of the Gospel to the whole world finds fresh enthusiasm and power.There is need for people able to show the fatherly face of God and the motherly face of the Church, people who spend their lives so that others can have life and hope. (Vita Consecrata, 105) It is with this life and hope that we place ourselves under the guidance and patronage of our Blessed Mother Mary, the Morning star that watches over this vast continent of Asia.

Calamba evacuees learn to earn a living while away from flooded homes

Evacuated from their submerged houses, residents have put up stall-like shelters outside the Church premises, where they are staying temporarily with their families and engaging in small scale business like vending.

By Fr. Romy Ponte

THIRTY-YEAR-OLD Rowena Gilbaligas house in Brgy. Linga, Calamb a City was submerged in floodwaters up to the rooftop since a month ago, hence, she and her husband with their two daughters aged 4 years old and 8 months have evacuated in the higher grounds near the church. Gilbaliga said, they decided to stay out from the evacuation center (nearby elementary

school building) and instead put up a makeshift shanty just outside a local churchs (Sts. Peter & Paul Parish Church in Aplaya) fence and along the road to give them a chance to earn something while they are away from their flooded home. According to Rowena she and her husband, like their fellow evacuees are engaged into small scale business like kakanin (food items), palamig (juice drinks) or anything so that they can earn even a little to sustain them while they are hindered from returning

to their regular means of livelihood in their village. While relief goods of food items and other necessities are not coming as regular as we needed them, it is good that we do something ourselves to earn so we help provide for our needs as much as we can even how difficult it is for us, Rowena explained. Evacuees in neighboring shanties close to Rowenas place are also engaged in various other business endeavors like tiny Sari-sari Stores, Smart & Globe loading stores and

many other small scale means of earning. When asked where they dispose their body wastes, evacuees said they are allowed to use the comfort rooms of the parish church. The local government unit has also established a portable toilet a few meters away from the church with two rooms for male and two rooms for female. Underneath the 4-room portable toilet are four big plastic receptacles which are emptied regularly as soon as they are filled to capacity.

Raymond Montenegro, a 31 year-old a farmer who has three kids has also put up a tiny shanty like several other evacuees just outside their parish churchs fence. He said they were compelled to abandon their house located in the middle of the farm and their ready for harvest rice fields and vegetable crops (sitao, ampalaya, eggplants, beans etc.) when the flood water inundated their farm house up to shoulder deep. The couple had also built their tiny cubicle-like shelter

outside the Church to feel more comfortable than inside the jampacked evacuation centers nearby. We are too dependent from helps and aids from various people and the government. Most often, the aids are not coming to us regularly, so I have to find other means of livelihood, Montenegro said in Tagalog. He added, there were times when I was hired for some contractual laboring jobs and this is helping my family especially that my eldest 6-year

Evacuees / B7

May They Be One

Help Put a Bible in Every Filipino Home

No. of Dioceses participating in the Bible Campaign 85 out of 86 Dioceses Bibles Distributed (Jan 1, 2012 - September 19, 2012): 161,674 copies Bibles Distributed by Languages - Bicol (4,252 cps.), Cebuano (38,983 cps.), English (22,096 cps.), Hiligaynon (7,915 cps.), Ilocano (6,104 cps.), Pampango (830 cps.), Pangasinan (3,787 cps.), Samarenyo (3,914 cps.), Tagalog (73,793 cps.) Parishes/Communities served in 2011: 1,315 Total Bible Distribution: (Jan 2009- Sept 19, 2012): 695,532 cps. Target No. of Bibles for Distribution for 2011: 400,000 cps. Total Funds Needed for Printing and Transport of Bibles in 2011: P60M

Bible Campaign

MTBO Spreads to the South

THE diocese of Dipolog City is alive with activities centered on the Word of God. Since the diocese got involved in May They Be One Bible campaign more than 3 years ago, about 13,000 MTBO Bibles have already been distributed among all the 38 parishes and 2 quasi-parishes. The parishes see to it that the Bible recipients undergo Bible formation so as to help them acquire a deeper understanding of the Word. As a result of the MTBO distribution, all the Catechists now have a personal copy of Bible a big boost to the Bible formation program of the diocese. Fr. Simplicio Lomarda, who spearheaded the MTBO Bible campaign in the diocese, estimates that as a result of the MTBO campaign, church attendance in the diocese increased by 30%. He also noted that more families are now incorporating family Bible Reading in their homes.

(From left to right) Biblical Apostolate leader Atty. Mike Abas, Dipolog Bishop Most Rev. Jose R. Manguiran, DD, Fr. Simplicio Lomarda and Biblical Apostolate leader Armando Saguin.

Members of the MTBO Advisory Committee: Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo DD, Fr. Oscar A. Alunday, Mr. Rod G. Cornejo, Mr. Rene E. Cristobal Sr., Dr. Philip C. Flores, Mr. Dante M. Lanorio, Fr. Antonio B. Navarrete, Dr. Natividad B. Pagadut, Mr. Albert S. Tanlimco and Atty. Jose Tale. Praise God for His faithfulness as we celebrate the 4th Anniversary of the May They Be One Bible campaign on September 30. The event will be highlighted by a fundraising film show. Lets pray for the success of the film showing and especially for the support for the project by schools and churches. To learn more about how you can be part of the Campaign and make significant change, call us at PBS 526-7777, ECBA 527-9386 or visit www.bible.org.ph and www.ecba-cbcp.com. Donations can be made by making a deposit to the following bank accounts: PBS-MTBO Account #3903-0649-34 (BPI Sta. Mesa Branch) Fax deposit slip to 521-5803 or ECBA-CBCP Account #0251021376 (BPI-Tayuman Branch) Fax deposit slip to 527-9386. For credit card paymentsgo to PBS website (www.bible.org.ph)

Photo courtesy of Fr. Romy Ponte

CBCP Monitor
Vol. 16 No. 20
September 24 - October 7, 2012

Statements
Without access to information, these sectors as well as other sectors in the Philippine society gain no knowledge as to what government plans. They would be unaware of the projects and contracts the national and local governments make for them. Even now, although some of these communities and/ or sectors are consulted, their issues and concerns are not being heard. Our people then eventually tend to develop distrust in government institutions and activities. CBCP-NASSA finds several questions worthy of reflection: - Why is it that in 14 years the FOI bill has still not been passed? - Why did the Aquino Administration not certify FOI as one of the priority bills when the President demands for transparency and accountability in his effort to eliminate corruption in his government? - Why has the Congress not called committee hearing on FOI? Why is Malacaang not following-up the calling of hearings if there is nothing to fear about the legislation? - How can the government be true to its mandate according to the 1987 Philippine Constitution Art. III, Section 7, stating The right of the people to information on matters of public concern shall be recognized if there is no political will to take concrete steps to adopt FOI? CBCP-NASSA believes that the passage of the Freedom of Information bill enhances peoples participation in politics and governance. The passage and enforcement of FOI would be a great service to the people; it empowers people with a new tool of information, especially the poor; it promotes social justice by giving the opportunity for social auditing of previously inaccessible public information, all geared towards the pursuit of the common good. In the spirit of truth and justice, CBCPNASSA calls upon President Benigno Aquino III to immediately certify the FOI bill as a priority, and urge all the members of the House of Representatives especially his party members, to support the passage of the FOI. Unless the President sees the urgent need to pass the FOI bill, his campaign on Matuwid na Daan is only a slogan, and has no firm basis. We urge Speaker Feliciano Belmonte, Jr. to immediately direct their respective Chairpersons of the Committee on Public Information to conduct committee hearings on the said bill. Both houses of Congress should deliberate and decide on the bill before the 15th Congress ends. CBCP-NASSA also prays for the support of every individual and groups who want to transform Philippine politics into an art of good governance. Let us encourage our respective district representatives and senators to vote for the passage of FOI. As our representatives in the government, their authority resides and emanate from us. Let them truly represent us in Congress by supporting the passage of FOI. + BRODERICK S. PABILLO, DD National Director, CBCP-NASSA 20 September 2012

B5
Responding to the Signs of the time Journeying from Good to Better
A Joint Statement of Pilar College of Zamboanga City and National Commission on Muslim Filipinos W E, t he Pila r Colleg e Administration, represented by Sr. Maria Fe D. Gerodias, RVM and Sr. Maria Nia C. Balbas, RVM and National Commission on Muslim Filipinos represented by Sec. Mehol K. Sedain after the 2nd Dialogue consultation at the Pilar College Projection Room, Zamboanga City on September 14, 2012, have collectively agreed on the following points of unity: Pilar College have shared common values: 1. Hospitality. Following the Christian tradition of going beyond the lines caused by class, religion and gender, the school has opened its doors and given equal opportunities to those who are willing to be subjected to its discipline. 2. Communion. True to its foundational value of being a community that unites rather than divides, it showed willingness to respect tradition other than its own. 3. Sensitivity to the signs of the time. The school continues to be known as an institution that respects tradition while at the same time aiming towards relevance and responsiveness to the signs of the time. 4. Openness to dialogue. The efforts done by the Sisters and the Pilar College community can be considered as gesture to which Pope Paul VIs descriptions tend to fit: confidencein the goodwill of both parties, which a mutual adherence to the good, and the exclusion of all self-seeking; and prudencean ability to adapt oneself ... to the circumstances of the listener (Ecclesiam Suam). 5. Respectful service. Amidst voices and suggestions from different sectors, Pilar College hinges its choices on its Foundress service with all your heart ... and to acquire the necessary knowledge which is coupled with respect for rightful authorities. Thus, Pilar College hopes to continue its role of contributing to the formation of the youth and preparing them for responsible roles in the family and the larger community. The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) being the only national government agency that caters to the needs, aspirations, welfare and interest of all the Muslim Filipinos, recognizes the concerns of the Muslim students and parents of Pilar College, and the role of the NCMF in addressing the same with reasonable dispatch in the spirit of mutual dialogue and peace co-existence. As such, Pilar College and NCMF shared common values although varying in response to the implementation of these values:
www.arkibongbayan.org

OUR peoples right to informationaccess to the records, documents, papers of/on contracts, transactions, decisions, programs, data, regulations, and all other official acts of governmentprovides greater opportunity for peoples participation in good governance. It is a constitutional right of every Filipino to be informed of the governmental affairs to ensure healthy social environment for democratic peoples participation in the delivery of programs, projects and services of the government. The National Secretariat for Social Action Justice and Peace (NASSA), the social action and development arm of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), calls upon our legislators to PASS THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION (FOI) BILL in the 15th Congress. CBCP-NASSA strongly believes FOI adheres to the principle of transparency and accountability. It is an important component to appropriately ensure the flagship governmental advocacy on MATUWID Na DAAN. Lack of access to information systematically subjects our concerned sectorsfarmers, fisherfolks, Indigenous peoples, workers and rural and urban poor, particularly the Basic Ecclesial communitiesto become vulnerable to exploitation and manipulation by bad elements in the society. Unfamiliarity and ignorance of government processes, contracts, activities and services, together with lack of formal education cause deprivation of rights and poverty. Our people then become mere objects of government policies rather than subjects/ participants in their development.

Pass the Freedom of Information Bill now!

Message to PNoy: Honor your parents struggle vs. Martial through stopping all human rights violations
September 21, 2012
ON the 40th commemoration of the declaration of Martial Law, the bishops and priests of the Visayas Clergy Discernment Group (VCDG) call on President Benigno Aquino III to meaningfully honor his parents struggle against Martial Law, through stopping human rights violations such as militarization, demolition and eviction of urban and rural poor communities, summary killing of media people and environmentalists, and other forms of human rights abuses. Our Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI said, Those with greater political, technical, or economic power may not use that power to violate the rights of others who are less fortunate. Peace is based on respect for the rights of all (Pope Benedict XVI, in his Message for World Day of Peace, 1 January 2007). Despite its insistence on daang matuwid, human rights violations and the impunity of perpetrators continue to characterize the Aquino government. Two years into his presidency, 99 extra-judicial killings have been recorded, 11 enforced disappearances, 60 frustrated extra-judicial killings, 222 illegal arrests without detention, 216 illegal arrests with detention, 185 illegal search and seizure, and 7,008 forced eviction/demolition. The Aquino government also committed 29,465 acts of forced evacuation, 19,325 threat/ harassment/intimidation, 6,721 indiscriminate firing, 45 forced/fake surrender, 296 use of civilians in police and/or military operations as guides and/or shield, 14,620 use of schools, medical, religious and other public places for military
Violation / B7

In response to the signs of the time and in the light of these cherished values, Pilar College with the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos, in partnership with its stakeholders, will implement the following programs towards the voluntary wearing of hijab in accordance with agreed specifications. Pilar College will make available an ongoing social preparation, which may include the following: a) Linkages with Muslim institutions to deepen the understanding of the Muslim culture and traditions, particularly in the areas of commonality and partnership opportunities with the Christian community b) Series of fora with stakeholders on hijab and its significance in Islamic spirituality c) Inclusion of Comparative Religious Studies as one of the Religious Studies courses d) Conduct of Marian (Sitti Maryam) dialogue and spirituality fora e) Regular updates on Christian-Muslim relations f) Encourage interfaith and intra-faith dialogues among Muslims and Christians. In relation with the above-mentioned program, the National Commission for Muslim Filipinos commits the following: 1) Assist Pilar College in implementing the aboveenumerated programs 2) Assign a qualified female representative to regularly participate in the implementation of interfaith programs of Pilar College. The Board of Directors of the Parent Teachers Association (PTA) shall directly dialogue with students, parents and guardians who have issues touching on public expression of faith. The dialogue aims to resolve issues at the level of the parents and teachers even before they reach the level of the school administrators. We call on all our beloved students and faculty, parents and alumni, and all those who love and long for peace, to bless this commitment with your sincere prayer, active support and discerned statements. Working together for a just and harmonious society, we pray. O men! Behold, We have created you all out of a male and female, and have made you into nations and tribes, so that you might come to know one another. Verily, the noblest of you in the sight of God is the one who is most deeply conscious of Him. Behold, God is allknowing, all-aware. Al-Hujurat 49:13 I urge you, then, to make me completely happy by having the same thoughts, sharing the same love, and being one in soul and mind. Dont do anything from selfish ambition or from a cheap desire to boast, but be humble toward one another, always considering others better than yourselves. And look out for one anothers interest, not just for your own. Philippians 2:2-4 Signed: SR. MARIA FE D. GERODIAS, RVM Representative RVM Southern Mindanao Province SR. MARIA NIA C. BALBAS, RVM President Pilar College of Zamboanga City SEC. MEHOL K. SADAIN National Commission on Muslim Filipinos

Uphold Life! Reclaim Peace!

A Statement on the Recent Ambush in Basilan
appeal to the authorities of the Province to act swiftly based on well-discerned decisions on these cases that have reduced the people to a state of constant fear and paralysis. We demand nothing but justice for the victims, accountability for their crimes on the side of the perpetrators, and restorative justice and healing in the community. We challenge the different government units to exhaust all their resources so that an incident like this, and other acts of brutality and lawlessness, will never happen again in Basilan and elsewhere. We enjoin civil society to support the people of Basilan in the struggle to bring about genuine and long lasting peace. We appeal to all citizens of the island for calmness and sobriety. No matter how difficult it is, let us continue to trust in the justice system of the land. As people of God, we continue to pray for peace, justice, and reconciliation in Basilan and in the whole of Mindanao especially as AS if the series of ambushes that had claimed and damaged lives in Basilan for the past several months were not enough, another dreadful ambush incident occurred on 7 September 2012. The recent incident, which killed one and wounded 35 rubber plantation workers, brings to four the ambush incidents in Basilan in just 10 months - October 23, 2011, April 15, 2012, and July 11, 2012. The images of these innocent civilians being fired at on broad daylight give us a chilling sense that life in this island can be snuffed out easily, anytime, and anywhere by those who want to continue sowing terror and fear among the people. We condemn in no uncertain terms the senseless killing of the victims of these ambushes. We believe that no political ideologies or religious beliefs anywhere in the world can ever justify the mindless killing of people, especially the ordinary ones, the civilians who are non-combatants. We we celebrate the International Month of Peace this September. Let us heed the wise words of Pope Benedict XVI that [people who pray are not wasting their time even though the situation appears desperate and seems to call for action alone. We grieve with those who lost their loved ones. We grieve with those whose lives had been scarred both by the physical wounds and invisible wounds resulting from these acts of violence. We cannot fully grasp the depth of their pain and suffering and perhaps even anger and despair. We continue commending to the Lord the souls of all those who died, as well as the healing of those who have been wounded. To the bereaved families, we pray that God console them in their deepest sorrow. FR. LEO DALMAO, CMF SR. MA. CECILIA BAYONA, AMP AMRSP Co-Chairpersons September 12, 2012

Statement for the 3rd Anniversary of Rev. Fr. Cecilio P. Lucero

THREE years ago, REV. FR. CECILIO P. LUCERO was brutally murdered in broad daylight at Brgy. Layuhan, San Jose, Northern Samar. In his years of sacerdotal life, he persistently worked for peace and social justice. His unrelenting quest for a place of peace to thrive in the Province of Northern Samar, based on his conviction for social justice, had cost his life. To many, he died a heroic death. However, his death must not be in vain. His killers must be held liable and be punished promptly and accordingly. Today, we are dismayed that three years had elapsed but the people believed to be responsible in his horrible slay freely walk and roam the streets, day and night, still not brought before the bar of justice. This is the irony of what Fr. Cecil had worked for. He labored that justice would be served upon through the Most Rev. Bishop Emmanuel C. Trance, DD, wrote to Hon. Leila Delima, Secretary of Justice, pleading for her immediate action on the case reminding her that in numerous newspapers, even the government denounced in strongest term possible the dreadful killing of Fr. Cecil and expressed optimism that the investigators in the field will be able to identify and bring the suspects of the ambush-slay of Fr. Cecil before the bar of justice. On September 21, 2011, upon an audience of Most Rev. Bishop Trance, the priests, some family members and causeoriented groups with the Hon. Secretary requesting for the prompt resolution of the pending case in the interest of speedy dispensation of justice, she promised to act on it within one (1) month. That was supposedly within the month of October 2011. We are, however, disheartened that until this day, the one month has almost become one year of uncertainty. To Secretary Delima and to the government, we convey our message that we never and will never surrender our quest for justice. We shall continue with our journey, no matter how tough and thorny it may be, until we attain justice for Fr. Cecil. As Most Rev. Bishop Trance had said in his letter to the Secretary: We still hold on to our hope that with Gods Grace, the dawning of justice for Rev. Fr. Lucero is no longer at a distant horizon. That is . JUSTICE WITHOUT DELAY, FEAR and FAVOR. JUSTICE FOR FR. CECILIO P. LUCERO, JUSTICE FOR ALL HUMAN RIGHTS VICTIMS! MSGR. WALTER CERBITO Vicar General, Diocese of Catarman September 6 Movement

the oppressed and exploited but the very same justice sought for his brutal killing seems to be elusive. It is appalling that until this day, the case before the Department of Justice against many of the respondents, who happened to be the mighty or the powerful, believed to be behind the killing is still pending. No action has been taken yet on them. On June 6, 2011, the Diocese of Catarman, Northern Samar,

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Ref lections
By Fr. Joseph Pellegrino
MOST of the people here have been faithful Catholics throughout their lives. They have attended Mass weekly from their earliest days. They have lived moral lives and searched for ways that they could serve God in others, particularly in their families. Most of the people here do not just go to Church on Sundays, they pray everyday. As human beings they fall, but they also rise up again through the sacraments. Most of the people here are very happy to be members of the Catholic Church. They see how the Holy Spirit continually works in the Church. They look towards Blessed Mother Theresa and Blessed Pope John Paul II, and see Gods presence. They witness the determination of Catholic Relief Services and the Campaign for Human Development to care for the poor and see God working. Theyve been disappointed and saddened by those priests and religious who have not been faithful to their vocations, but for every one who has caused scandal they know of hundreds of others who have been dedicated servants of the Church. They know that the Catholic Church is the original Christian Church and has been faithful to Christ for two thousand years. But then they also see how the Lord is working in other faiths. So many determined Christians of various religions, so many faith-filled people who do not confess Jesus Christ, are living for God, serving Him in the poor. This Lutheran congregation is determined to reach out to the homeless. That Jewish community has established care facilities for sick and destitute people of all faiths. They recognize the spiritual leadership of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Mahatma Ghandi, and Martin Buber. They see how God worked through Billy Graham; how he reaches out to others in song through

CBCP Monitor
Vol. 16 No. 20
September 24 - October 7, 2012

Reflections on the Readings of the 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B (Mk 9:38-43, 45, 47-48) September 30, 2012
the Pentecostal group Hillsong United. They see how a middleaged Tony Dungy and a young Tim Tebow use their athletic prowess as stepping stones to proclaim the Lord. And they know that the Spirit is alive and well in the world working through those within the Catholic Church, and those within the universal Church who themselves do not share in the seven sacraments or might not even believe in Jesus Christ. Eldad and Medad were not in the tent. They werent present with the 70 who received the Spirit back in the days of Moses. Yet, Eldad and Medad still received the Spirit. Stop them, Joshua said. Why? asked Moses. Would that all the people shared in the Spirit. Some man was baptizing in the name of Jesus. He was not one of the Twelve. Perhaps he heard Jesus speak and wanted to spread the Gospel. Stop him, the Twelve said. Why? asked Jesus. He is doing good work.
Grace / B7

The grace of our Eldads and Medads

Our God is the sovereign Lord of all

26th Sunday in Ordinary Time National Seafarers Day September 30, 2012
By Fr. Sal Putzu, SDB
JESUS must have had a hard time in forming his disciples. Their moral defects were continuously surfacing in attitudes and acts which surprise us, and even scandalize us altogether. Their attempt to stop a man from expelling demons in the name of Jesus just because he was not one of their group (see Mk 9:38) reveals a ghetto mentality absolutely incompatible with the universality of Christs message. The roots of such an attitude are pride, possessiveness, envy . . . . They try to thrive in the hearts of all men. Together, these negative tendencies blind many people into believing that they are the very best and should, as far as possible, remain uncontaminated by contact with lower races or classes . ... This is one of the reasons why we put so many barriers and fences in our lives, and we see a proliferation of barkadas, fraternities, syndicates, elitist groups . . . whose main concern seems to be the exclusion of the non-members. Squalid fortresses of pride, individualism, social discrimination, racism! . . . When these forms of pride, envy, or self-exaltation try to find religious justifications, then we come very near the impious attempt to monopolize God and even lecture Him on how He should run the world. The temptation to monopolize God and railroad His activity is a perennial danger with some church people. Not a few have become experts in this form of witchcraft. Such an attitude is the total denial of genuine faith. Faith is, first of all, humility. It is the desire to let God be God. Let God be freefree to take His initiatives; free to use His gifts and people the way He thinks best. No one should dare attempt to limit Gods presence to the structures to which one belongs. Not even when these structures bear Gods very name and seal, and have their origin in Him. God is infinitely greater than any earthly structure or vision. His wisdom follows ways unknown even to the most perceptive of us. His love can use sinners to make saints holier. It can make use of the fury of persecutors to purify His very Church and render it humbler, more detached from things of this world, and more faithful to her Lord . . . . Once we understand and accept this fundamental Christian truth, then we will be respectful of Gods freedom, and work for the fulfillment of one of the most demanding petitions of the Lords Prayer, May your will be done. Gods will, not ours! Then we will also be magnanimous toward those who do not share our likings or do not display our badge. At the same time, we will also be very demanding with ourselves, as the final verses of todays Gospel passage forcefully put it. (See Mk 9:43.45.47.)

The masterpiece and mirror of Gods creative love

27th Sunday in Ordinary Time, October 7, 2012
By Fr. Sal Putzu, SDB
MAN and woman are not meant to live in isolation. (See Gn 2:18.) As social beings, they are meant for social life, communication, friendship, communion. As sexual beings, man and woman are complementary and meant to propagate and perpetuate their own selves in an ever-expanding chain of new members of the human species. In Gods plan, marriage is the unbreakable covenant of love in which one man and one woman fulfill their social, affective and sexual needs. It is the foundation of the family, the basic form of human society. Every family should be a reflection of Gods creative and caring love. It is within their own family that people are expected to be instruments and recipients of Gods love in all its wonderful features: life-giving, full of care, ever open to accept and appreciate the other, ready to give ones best and to forgive even the worst. All this starts with husband and wife, but does not end with them. Together, through the oneness and communion they create, they become the sacraments of the Lords love also for the other members of the family, especially their children. Completing the circle, the children should be the sacraments of Gods love for their parents and for one another. St. Paul spells out this truth in very concrete terms (see especially Col 3:1821), and the Churchunder the guidance of the Holy Spirithas come to realize
Masterpiece/ B7

Noli Yamsuan / RCAM

Bishop Pat Alo

ENCouNTERS

The work of missionaries makes a difference

WHEN we look at the status of Catholicity or Christianity nowadays we are inclined to look with gratitude at the work of missionaries, both men and women, who brought the faith to us at the expense of many sacrifices or even the loss of their lives in martyrdom for the faith in Jesus Christ. No doubt we are grateful for their example of sacrifice and generosity, just so as to fulfill that last instruction of Jesus: Go out to the whole world; proclaim the Good News to all creation. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; he who does not believe will be condemned (Mk. 16:16). That instruction of Jesus came also with an assurance of Gods protection. These are the signs that will be associated with believers: in my name they will cast out devils; they will have the gift of tongues; they will pick up snakes in their hands, and be unharmed should they drink deadly poison; they will lay their hands on the sick, who will recover (Mk. 16:17). Amid all the different religions in the world lets have some sense of discernment. Without pointing any accusing fingers at least let us be searchers of the truth that sets us free (Jn. 8:32). After all, the truth is everybodys right. No one has the right to what is false. Let us live that freedom that is tantamount to saying: Live and let live, with due respect to others rights (life, liberty, truth, property). Let us give to everyone that freedom to search for the truth!

Bo Sanchez

SouLFood

What kind of parenting did you receive?

YOU didnt choose your parents. There was no audition in Heaven for Parent Idol where you got to choose your mother and father. There were no preliminary interviews for possible parents, no screening committee, no judges to help you e v a l u a t e , a n d n o v o t i n g f ro m potential children where you could text in your votes. Simon and Britney werent there to audition potential parents for you. Instead, God chose you to be born in your family, with your set of imperfect parents, with your set of crazy siblings. What kind of parenting did you receive? Theres good parenting and theres bad parenting. There are many ways to be a bad parent, but theres only one way to be good I believe the type of parenting you received is the biggest factor that made you who you are today. But even if your past wasnt perfect, it was perfect for your purpose Punitive Parenting If your parents practiced punitive parenting, then everyday was all about the Law. As a child, you woke up every morning feeling like youve done something wrong alreadyyou just dont know it yet. P u n i t i v e p a re n t i n g p ro d u c e s two kinds of children. The first offspring is totally compliant, but lacks spontaneity, creativity, and independent thinking. I know a guy who was raised by the strictest parents on earthand he has a difficult time taking risks. As an adult, he cant make decisions on his own and wants other people to make decisions for him. The second offspring becomes a rebel. He cant handle a job because he cant work with any kind of authority figure. And then theres the opposite type of parenting Permissive Parenting If your parents used permissive parenting, there were no Laws in the house. Or if there were, you wiggled your way out of them with impunity. And if you b ro k e t h e L a w o f y o u r s c h o o l or of the country, your parents always defended you, always rescued you, always paid your debts, always paid your bail, and told you, The teacher doesnt understand you; the Police doesnt understand you; the Judge doesnt understand you Sadly, permissive parenting can produce criminals Poisonous Parenting If your parents used poisonous parenting, then everyday, you were criticized, belittled, ridiculed, and embarrassed. Poisonous parenting produces small people who have low self-esteem. And even when your parents have long been buried under the grave, you will still hear their criticism in your minds for the rest of your life. Positive Parenting In positive parenting, the parents believe in the innate goodness in their children and think, speak, and

FILE PHOTO

Soulfood / B7

CBCP Monitor
Vol. 16 No. 20
September 24 - October 7, 2012

Social Concerns

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NASSA and ACDOs Caritas Shelter Project for typhoon Sendongs victims
By Sr. Mapet Bulawan, DC
THE Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines National Secretariat for Social Action (CBCP-NASSA) / Caritas Philippines, in cooperation with the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro is currently implementing its CARITAS VILLAGE SHELTER PROJECT as a relocation program for the victims of Typhoon Sendong. The permanent shelter project is located on a one-hectare lot that was purchased at Brgy. Indahag, Cagayan de Oro City. The construction of 90 units on the purchased lot is currently in progress. This shelter project is a fruit of the Emergency Appeal of CBCP-NASSA to its international Caritas Partners through Caritas Internationalis. On September 8, the feast of Blessed Mother Marys Nativity, CBCP-NASSA and the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro started to award the first 31 Units to qualified beneficiaries. The day commenced with a Thanksgiving Eucharistic Celebration at 9 a.m. officiated by Most Rev. Antonio J. Ledesma, SJ, DD, the Archbishop of Cagayan de Oro. After the Mass, the Awarding Ceremonies followed with the signing of Core Shelter Unit Award Contract by the couple beneficiaries; and the Blessing of each unit and family to be awarded. The said activities were facilitated by the Area Coordinator, Mr. Dodong Arellano with CBCP-NASSA Administrative Officer, Sr. Mapet P. Bulawan, DC. Agape followed as a sign of fellowship and sharing of blessings. Screening of Beneficiaries To arrive at the most vulnerable beneficiaries, families were identified through a basic intake form. Each family has a profile collated in a summary form as basis of the general information for deliberation by a screening committee. Identified couple beneficiaries were interviewed and a general orientation on the project implementation was conducted, followed by the signing of Attestation of Commitment to the project. First level of selection was based on the criteria set by NASSA and

Cagayan de Oro Archbishop Antonio J. Ledesma hands over the Core shelter unit contract to beneficiaries at the awarding ceremonies held September 8 at Brgy. Indahag, Cagayan de Oro City.

the partner DSAC. Upon arriving at the 1st phase of selection, performance on their sweat equity was constantly monitored, which was the ground for the 2nd level screening succeeding the turn over ceremony. Participation Sweat equity is a major aspect being considered at the start towards the end of the construction period to confirm the sense of ownership among beneficiaries identified. Each family beneficiary is required 500 hours of sweat equity. The time spent by each family beneficiary to be counted as sweat equity
Pedro / B3 Violation / B5

is regulated through proper monitoring and recording of the Area Coordinator. Likewise, at a higher level of ensuring community participation, value formation workshops and sessions are conducted by the Area Coordinator with the beneficiaries. Coordination and Collaboration Coordination served as a good avenue to share information on targeting beneficiaries, in preparing the site, and in responding to the other needs and concerns of the incoming beneficiaries. CBCP-NASSA is grateful to the NHA of CDO for preparing the site development

plan; the Barangay Council of Indahag for facilitating the requested needs of the beneficiaries; and the City Mayor of Cagayan de Oro for providing the needed backfilling materials for each unit. Currently, Mayor Emano is providing for the installation and connection of the water system for the entire village. On September 29th, another 30 units will be due for awarding. Towards the end of October 2012, NASSA remains committed to complete the targeted units, as they anticipate with ardent faith and hope the immediate transfer of the expectant TS Washi survivor beneficiaries.

The morning of Monday, 1 February, was spent at the Micronesian Area Research Center in the University of Guam where Cardinal Vidal was formally given a copy of every material the Center has on Pedro Calungsod. In the afternoon, the pilgrims celebrated their farewell Mass at the Parish Church of Blessed Diego Luis de San Vitores in Tomhon. At their departure, the pilgrims from Cebu brought with them some earth, sand and corals from Tomhon shorethe silent witnesses of the martyrdom of Pedro Calungsodin a bronze and silver box. During that very first pilgrimage in honor of Pedro Calungsod the pilgrims felt the presence of the young Visayan martyr who made sure his mga katagilungsod would receive the best hospitality on visiting the land that had been bathed with his blood. Te Deum laudamus Meanwhile, the Jesuits in Cebu were preparing for the traditional Solemn Vespers to celebrate the eve of the
Evacuees / B4

birthday of the Archbishop of Cebu. Since the pilgrims had just arrived from Guam, the idea of making the Solemn Vespers also a celebration for the Servant of God, Pedro Calungsod, was hatched. At five in the afternoon of Friday, 5 February 1999, Solemn Vespers were sung at the Sacred Heart parish Church in Cebu City. It was presided over by the Archbishop of Cebu himself and attended by the members of the hierarchy, clergy and religious communities of the Archdiocese, visiting bishops, priests and a good number of lay people. During the grand singing of the Te Deum, the bronze and silver box that contained the silent witnesses of the martyrdom of Pedro Calungsod was solemnly carried by four deacons in red dalmatics from the main entrance into the nave of the church. That Te Deum somehow finally broke the three-hundred-twenty-seven years of seeming silence of the then Diocese of Cebu over the martyrdom of one or its sons, Pedro Calungsod. (To be continued)

purposes, 2,099 restriction or violent dispersal of mass actions, public assemblies and gatherings, among others (Karapatan Quarterly Monitor, 2012). In Cebu, violent demolition and eviction of urban poor communities have continued; and more than 30,000 households in Metro Cebu are facing demolition. There are also farmers leaders who have asked help from Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma as they are being harassed for asserting genuine agrarian reform. Fisherfolks in Cordova, Cebu and other areas in the province are being displaced from their livelihood due to reclamation projects for ports, golf courses, and others. We recall the Churchs social teachings on integral development. In any program for development or progress, the government must make sure that everyone affected by it, especially those who dont have the means to have their voices heard or who cant defend themselves, is given the chance to be
Grace/ B6

listened to or consulted. The government should ensure that its decisions are not biased in favor of those who have more in life, at the expense of those who have less. Each ones rights should not be violated in the name of progress. Yet amidst increasing human rights violations, we are dismayed with the continuing impunity of perpetrators. Impunity or exemption from punishment of perpetrators has become so common that it has become just another matter of routine. Impunity denies the victims their right to justice and redress. For example, General Jovito Palparan, who is facing two charges of kidnapping and serious illegal detention for allegedly masterminding the 2006 abduction of University of the Philippines students Karen Empeo and Sherlyn Cadapan, continues to elude the law. The late Sec. Jesse Robredo in his talk in the Cebu Discernment of Public Servants last July 20, 2012, even said that Palparan cant be arrested because may kasabwat sa

kapangyarihan. Many other government military officials and personnel accused of perpetrating human rights violation continue to enjoy impunity under the current dispensation. We ask the Aquino Government to denounce Martial Law through doing all it can to stop impunity and stop all human rights violations. We also challenge ourselves, and everyone concerned. To attain lasting peace, all of us must promote human rights and justice. We are one with Pope Benedict XVI who said, Peace for all is the fruit of justice for all, and no one can shirk this essential task of promoting justice (Message for World Day of Peace 2012, Pope Benedict XVI). As Christ lives, BISHOP GERARDO ALMINAZA, DD Auxiliary Bishop of Jaro/ Head Convenor of the Visayas Clergy Discernment Group (VCDG)

old kid is schooling. But when the few weeks contract expire I am back jobless, like now. Raymond and his wife also had to take care of their two other kids aged 4 years and 2 years old. There are about 100 families who put up their shanties around the perimeter fence of the church, according to Fr. Raul Matienzo, the parish priest of Sts. Peter & Paul Parish. The evacuees are coming mostly from Brgys Linga, Sampirohan and Palingon in the Aplaya area, which are within his parish jurisdiction.
Soulfood / B6

Most of these evacuees are having businesses in their flooded homes and villages hence, they preferred to stay here near the church as they would want to be productive economically even in small ways while they are displaced from their homes. The priest showed this writer the vicinities of the Church area which is literally surrounded by flood water. He said the knee-deep to waist-deep water outside the church is already receding when this writer visited the area in the afternoon of

September 8. One month ago, at the height of flooding spawned by Southwest monsoon, the water was a meter or more deep, the priest said. A Provincial Social Welfare & Development (PSWD) statistics showed that there are 13,975 families, involving 56,212 persons who were affected by the flood in Calamba City alone, which left two casualties. In the entire Laguna province around 76,089 families involving 323,608 persons were affected by the floods.

act out from this powerful belief. They express their love everyday. But they also discipline them by allowing their kids to experience the bad consequences of their decisions. In other words, they let reality be their teacher. Ultimately, its Positive Parenting that makes everything work. God is still your Father How many people actually experienced purely positive parenting? Very few. Most of us experienced all of the above at one point or anotherpunitive, permissive, poisonous, and positive. Because our parents werent perfect. I repeat what I said earlier:

I believe the type of parenting you received is the biggest factor that made you who you are today. But let me qualify. Its not the parenting itself that shaped you, but HOW YOU RESPONDED to your parenting that made you who you are today. But I speak from a human level. In a supernatural level, Ive seen God transform peoples lives, no matter what upbringing theyve experienced. Ive met phenomenal human beings who were raised by monsters. Yes, miracles do happen. I repeat: Your past wasnt perfect, but it was perfect for your purpose. Even if the

parenting you received was bad parenting, God will use that bad parenting for your good purpose. You may have been abused by immature, self-absorbed, cruel, narcissistic, parents. But do not lose hope. The Psalmist says, Even if my father and mother abandon me, the Lord will hold me close. (Psalms 27:10) God will heal your wounds and fill your heart with love. He says in the Bible, Can a mother forget her nursing child? Can she feel no love for the child she has borne? But even if that were possible, I would not forget you! (Isaiah 49:15) May your dreams come true.

We are graced to live in the age of the Spirit. This wonderful time began when The Father and the Son sent the Spirit upon the world. He is the Spirit of God. He is the action of God. He transforms the world by working in the hearts of all good people. And thus, in the Vatican II document, The Church in the Modern World, the Catholic Church declared that all who are open to God, who are following their consciences are themselves, in fact, members of the Church, saved by Jesus Christ. Eldad and Medad may not have been in the tent. But the Spirit still empowered them. Just as the Spirit empowers that husband who had been away from the Church for years, who mocked all things good and holy, but who, when he looked at his first born, said that he needed to change his life. He returned and returns daily. He continually asks forgiveness for the time he was away. Now, he is leading his children to God. The Spirit has given his life meaning and purpose. Like Augustine he grieves, Late have I loved thee. And like Augustine he has learned
Masterpiece / B6

that God never stopped loving him. Eldad and Medad may not be in the tent, but the Spirit still empowers them. Just as the Spirit empowers that woman who had two babies by two different men, and an abortion due to another man, and now, through bitter tears and daily repentance, has chosen God. She works diligently caring for those who also tread the path of death she had been on, for those who have offended against the dignity of Christianity as she had offended against life. The Spirit is present in the Church. Jesus is present in the Blessed Sacrament. But the Spirit is also present where we, foolish human beings with our feeble attempts to limit Gods power, least expect to find Him. Eldad and Medad, the man baptizing in Jesus name. No one can harness the Spirit. He is God, the action of Love that has been unleashed upon the world through the Gift of the Father and the Sacrifice of the Son. We thank God today for the wonders of the Holy Spirit, in our lives, in our parish and in the world.

ever more clearly the sanctifying role of the family. But marriage and the family, like all other human realities, bear the consequences of original sin and sin in general. This terrible, destructive force relentlessly tries to tear apart what Gods plan has united. All the worst tendencies of the wounded human naturejealousy, sensuality, unfaithfulness, possessiveness . . . coupled with the bad example from the environment, continually threaten to destroy the harmony of even the best families. Under the violence of such attacks, the Christian couple should always be mindful of the grace of the sacrament that has bound them to each other as Christ is bound to the Church.

That grace needs to be activated through faith, prayer, faithfulness to the commitments undertaken. The mutual duties of sincere love, acceptance, assistance, encouragement, forgiveness . . . have to be fulfilled with constant generosity. Every family has to learn to kneel down in prayer and to go to God together. Regardless of what may have come to pass the day before, every dawn must usher in a newness that heals the wounds of the past and reaches out beyond the present clouds and storms. Then every Christian family will really be a little Church, a lovely place to be in, and an inspiration for others to follow. The witness which a real Christian family can offer is one of the best gifts to the Church and society at large.

Photos courtesy of CBCP-NASSA

B8
SI Sari (Bea Alonso), isang master cutter sa isang tailoring shop sa Maynila, ay querida ni Rico, isang mayamang negosyanteng asawa ni Regina (Hilda Koronel) at ama ni JD (John Lloyd Cruz). Hindi batid ni JD na kerida ng ama niya si Sari, at wala ring kamalay-malay si Sari na ama pala ni JD si Rico. Mabibighani si JD at liligawan nito si Sari. Masugid mangligaw si JD, at bagamat tapat si Sari kay Rico, kalaunay makakagaangan na niya ng loob si JD, at sa katunayan ay ipagtatapat niya dito ang kanyang kalagayan bilang isang kerida. Napakalaki na diumano ang naitulong ni Rico kay Sari at sa kanyang pamilya na sa kanya lamang umaasa sa ikabubuhay at ipangtutustos sa pag-aaral, kayat tanggap na niya ang ganoong buhay. Ngunit matindi ang panunuyo ni JD kay Sari, lalo nat nang malaman nito na ang tinutukoy na kalaguyo ni Sari pala ay walang iba kundi ang kinamumuhian niyang ama. Una, sa magagaling na bahagi ng pelikula: mahusay ang pagganap ng mga pangunahing artista. Naging kapani-paniwala ang mga tauhang ginampanan nila, lalo na ni Alonso. Matagumpay ang pagpapakita ng sipag ni Sari sa kanyang piniling gawain, sa pamamagitan ng maraming eksenang kinunan sa tailoring shop at yaong mga kasama ang kanyang inaarugang pamilya. Dahil sa kagustuhan mong sundan ang takbo ng mga pangyayari, maipipikit mo na lamang ang isa mong mata

Entertainment
sa ilang malubak na bahagi ng editing, sa di pantay-pantay na lakas ng mga tunog, o sa ilang malalabong bahagi ng characterization at daloy ng istorya na nakakabawas sa pagmakatotoo ng pelikula. Tulad halimbawa ng tila deus ex machina na atake sa pusosa bandang dulo. Biglang-bigla, kayat para lamang ipinasok sa kuwento at madali nang matapos. Sana man lamang ay ipinahiwatig ito nang maagaaga pa sa pelikula, halimbawa, ipinakita sanang umiinom siya ng mga maintenance medicines niya pagkakain. (O baka naman meron noon at nakalampas dahil nakatulog kami gawa ng kabagalan ng takbo ng ilang eksena? Patawarin po.) Ang The Mistress ay tungkol sa tinatawag nating kabit o keridasi Sari ang bida sa dramang ito. Tila walang maitim na buto, ika nga, sa katawan ni Sari. Bukod sa ganda niyang pang-beauty queen, siya ay mabait pa, may mabuting asal, magalang, masunurin, mapagmahal sa pamilya, kagalang-galang aba, ay nasa kanya nang lahat! Ito ang peligroso sa ganitong uri ng kuwento. Hindi namin sinasabing imposibleng magkaroon sa tunay na buhay ng ganoong kabuting-tao na kabit, ngunit ipinapaalala lamang ng CINEMA na ang kuwentong ito ay kathangisip lamangpati na ang mga tauhan, siyempre, kaya de kahon ang mga ito,
TITLE: The Mistress CAST: John Lloyd Cruz (JD), Bea Alonso (Sari), Hilda Coronel (Regina), Ronaldo Valdez (Rico), GENRE: Romantic melodrama RUNNING TIME: 125 minutes DISTRIBUTOR: Star Cinema LOCATION: Philippines TEChNICAL ASSESSMENT: MORAL ASSESSMENT: CINEMA rating: V 18
Moral Assessment

CBCP Monitor

Vol. 16 No. 20

September 24 - October 7, 2012

Technical Assessment

Abhorrent Disturbing Acceptable Wholesome Exemplary

Poor Below average Average Above average Excellent

stereotyped. Ang kabit ay mabait, ang asawa ay mataray, ang nakikiapid na matanda ay tipong asendero, atbp. Sa The Mistress, kampante ang mga tao sa takbo ng kanilang buhay; parang itinutulak lamang sila ng tadhana. Kung ano man sila ngayon, iyon ay dahil sa mga pangyayari, sa ibang mga tao, at hindi dahil sa isang matalino at masusing pagbabalik-tanaw o pagsisiyasat sa kanilang mga pinapahalagahang kabuluhan. Ngunit bahagi na rin marahil ng mabuting hangarin ng pelikula, idiniin nito ang pagsisisi at paghingi ng tawad sa bandang huli. Hindi kailanman matatakasan ang pighating dulot ng bawal na pag-ibigito ang pahatid ng The Mistress. At para din marahil pasayahin ang karaniwang manonood na Pilipino na ang hanap ay laging happy ending, tinapos ang pelikula ng isang pangakong napapaloob sa pinagtiyap na pangitain. Maaaring pangitain pa lang, pero happy pa rin.

MAC en COLET

Ni Bladimer Usi

Buhay Parokya

Look for the images of the Chalice and Sacred Host, Saint John the Baptist baptizing Jesus and Lourdes Grotto. (Illustration by Bladimer Usi)

TITLE: Resident evil: Retribution CAST: Milla Jovovich, Michelle Rodriguez, Sienna Guillory, Aryana Engineer, Johann Urb DIRECTION: Paul Anderson GENRE: Science fiction thriller RUNNING TIME: 95 minutes DISTRIBUTOR: Screen Gems LOCATION: Canada, USA, Russia TEChNICAL ASSESSMENT: MORAL ASSESSMENT: CINEMA Rating: V18

ALICE (Milla Jovovich) is captured by the Umbrella Corporation after the battle led by former ally Jill (Guilory). She escapes with the help of Ada (Li Bingbing) and Umbrellas head Albert Wesker (Shawn Roberts) who tells her that she has to save what is left of mankind from the Red Queens continued release of the T-virus turning the entire world into zombies. As Alice encounters old nemesis Rain (Rodriguez) as well as new monsters as she moves to destroy the Umbrella Corporations base. In the process, she also discovers that memories were implanted on her when she was used as a human bait to measure the populations response against the effects of the T-virus. The memories were that of a suburban mother to a deaf daughter whom she eventually took under her protection despite being merely a clone human. We w e r e expecting a horror filmit was not. I was expecting a suspense t h r i l l e r, i t was neither. Instead it felt like an hour of watching a demo of a videogame. T h e storyline was so thin and shallow they really had to bombard the film with fighting, explosions, and blood splattering every five minutes to make it long enough to be classified as a full length movie. The effects were impressive but they overpowered the scenes as they called too much attention to them rather than enhance and push the story forward. (Then again, wheres the story to push?) The scoring must have suited the whole explosive action scene but with so many peppered within the film, it became increasingly irritating. The acting was stiff and cold. The characters gave no semblance of humanity, thus it was quite hard to identify or sympathize even during the time Alice bonded with her supposed daughter. It was an okay film overall but missing it would not have mattered also. Maybe the film was meant for the videogame fans who would have been delighted seeing their protagonists in 3D. There was a gracious attempt to show feminine genius battling the evils of the world and giving everything to save life. Alices desire to protect and save her pretend daughter Becky, even after she learned that the latter is merely a clone human, is beyond admirable. It would have made a point for estimable maternal instinct. Unfortunately, the stiff performance, the shallow storytelling and the emphasis on killing, gore and blood completely drown these messages.

CBCP Monitor
Vol. 16 No. 20
September 24 - October 7, 2012

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A Supplement Publication of KCFAPI and the Order of the Knights of Columbus

The Cross

KC gives posthumous award to Robredo

Dr. Josephine Robredo-Bondoc accepting the posthumous award for the late Brother Knight Jesse Robredo.

KCFAPI marks 54th anniversary

THE Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association of the Philippines, Inc. (KCFAPI) marked its 54th anniversary with a weeklong celebration from September 8 to 14 leading up to the commemoration of the 35th death anniversary of Fr. George J. Willmann, SJ the father of the Knights of Columbus in the Philippines. A daily rosary which started on August 31 culminated with a novena offered on the feast of the Nativity of Our Lady on September 8. These served as a prayer for peace and order, safe trip and successful undertaking of the weeklong activities. The insurance arm of the Knights of Columbus in the Philippines sponsored a catechism, feeding program, medical and dental mission last September 9. The events started with a Eucharistic celebration led by Fr. William Araa, OSA and were held in two separate venues. KCFAPI sponsored the Sunday Catechism and Feeding Program regularly conducted by the K of C Council 1000 at San Agustin Church which started at 9:30 a.m. Participants were children of all ages residing in Intramuros. Topic on that day mawealth Inc, Maxlife Pharma Company, Pharmatrix, Hizon Laboratories, among others. A certificate of recognition was given to the volunteer doctors and nurses from Rizal Medical Center, Chinese General Hospital, and Medical Center of Imus, namely Dr. Kathleen Joy Santiago, Dr. Rincelle Joan Dimacuha, Dr. Patricia Milana, Dr. Rainier Boado, Ms. Ciara Ana Tukay-Dental Aid, Dr. Cherry Rabo, Dr. Jasper Feliciano, Zhen De Lumban RN, Dina Marasigan RN, Loraine Teodoro RN, Dr. Mary Rosalyn Talag, and Dr. Sunday Galias. A special recognition was also awarded to Dr.

Yen Ocampo

Fr. McGivney Pilgrimage kicks off in Visayas

THE pilgrimage of Venerable Father Michael J. McGivneys statue in Visayas region kicked off Sept. 16 with thousands of people in attendance. Fr. McGivney is the founder of the K of C, whose cause for canonization is strongly being promoted in the Philippines. Earlier this year, the US-based K of C Supreme Office sent four 4-foot tall and gold-colored statues of Fr. McGivney to the Philippines. One statue each was sent to Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao jurisdictions. The other one can be viewed within the compound of Fr. George Willmann, Center, Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association of the Philippines, Inc. head office in Intramuros, Manila. The pilgrimage in Visayas started with a Mass presided by Jaro Auxiliary Bishop Gerardo Alminaza at the Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral with thousands of churchgoers led by officials of the K of C Visayas Jurisdiction. Before the Mass, Visayas State Deputy Rodrigo Sorongon shared a brief background about Fr. McGivney in order for the parishioners to have an idea of who he is, what he has done, and why he is primed up for canonization. Copies of the maiden issue of Newsletter for the Cause of Venerable Michael J. McGivney were also distributed inside the Church.

THE Knights of Columbus of the Philippines has given a posthumous award to the late Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jesse M. Robredo on September 14 at the San Agustin Church in Intramuros, Manila.

The award was in recognition of the commendable achievement and legacy of the late cabinet member. Robredos sister, Dr. Josephine Robredo-Bondoc has accepted the posthumous award in behalf of her sister-inlaw who was unable to come because of sickness. We are very much honored with this award. Atty. Maria Leonor Gerona-Robredo could not be here because she is sick and she asked me to accept this award in her behalf. One lesson I learned now is I only knew Jesse as my brother in the family and Im

starting to discover that he was a brother to so many people and Im very glad I came here. My resolution to myself is I will be a sister to everyone also just like what he did, Bondoc said. Meanwhile, Supreme Director Alonso Tan said the late Robredo was a K of C member in Tabuco, Naga City since September 1, 1987 exactly 25 years on September 1 this year. We presented this plaque of recognition to the late Brother Knight Jesse Robredo because of his contribution not only to the order but to the whole nation, Tan added.

Relito M. Saquilayan, Medical Director of The Rizal Medical Center. A day specially dedicated for Benefit Certificate Holders and fraternal counselors was

Rodrigo Sorongon, Visayas Deputy, talks about the life and legacy of Fr. McGivney and the canonization process.

People touch the pilgrim statue of Venerable Fr. Michael McGivney, founder of the Knights of Columbus, after a Mass presided by Jaro Auxiliary Bishop Gerardo Alminaza at the Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral in Iloilo City, 16 Sept. 2012.

Bishop Alminaza praised Fr. McGivney for his contribution to the Church and family life. He also encouraged the parishioners to pray for the

canonization of the K of C founder. Noeni Nepomuceno, Visayas State Program Director, said the pilgrim statue will make rounds in selected parishes in Iloilo province until November before going to other parts of Visayas.

He said it is not impossible to have several devotees of Fr. McGivney in Iloilo because of his vision, it is all about service, charity, and concern for the poor when he founded the Knights of Columbus. (Ronalyn Regino)

Like KCfApi Chairman Hilario G. Davide,Jr., prof. Romulo G. Davide is another Ramon Magsaysay Awardee (2012)
ROMULO G. Davide is one of the 6 recipients of the 2012 Ramon Magsaysay Award. This award was established in1957 as Asias highest honor equivalent to the Nobel Prize and is given every year to individuals or organizations in Asia who manifest the same sense of selfless service that ruled the life of the late President Ramon Magsaysay. Together with awardees from Bangladesh, Cambodia, India, Indonesia and Taiwan, he received the prestigious award during the presentation ceremonies held last August 31 at the CCP. He was recognized for his steadfast passion in placing the power and discipline of science in the hands of the Filipino farmers which have resulted to the multiple yields, productive farming communities and rediscovery of dignity of labor. Romulo G. Davide, 78 was born in Colawin, Argao, Cebu. With his doctorate and advanced training in the United States and Ireland, Davide is called as the Father of Plant Nematology. He was also awarded by the Department of Agriculture in 1994 as the Outstanding Agricultural Scientist. Romulo G. Davide, is the older brother of KCFAPI Chairman, Retired Chief Justice Hillario G. Davide, Jr., who in 2002 was also a Ramon Magsaysay Awardee for Government Service in recognition of his commitment to democracy and rule of law in the Philippines. Congratulations from your KCFAPI FAMILY!

was The Wisdom of Solomon narrated by Brother Fulencio Nofies, member of Council 1000 and Cofradia Del Seor Sto. Nio De Cebu. More than 200 participants from kinder to high school levels attended the catechism and feeding program. The medical mission was held inside the KCFAPI main office from 7:30 a.m. onwards. More than 200 residents were invited from five Barangays in Intramuros (Brgys. 654, 655, 656, 657 and 658) and received free medical and dental check-up (pedia, cardio, ears/nose/throat) and free medicines, vitamins from various pharmaceutical companies such as Interphil Laboratories

held last September 10. Walkin visitors enjoyed light snacks and brought home souvenirs like rosaries. A spin-a-wheel game was also facilitated by BC Holders Relations Office Staff Caressa Xia Trinidad. A lucky BC Holder takes home special gifts depending on the winning

Inc, United American Pharmaceuticals Inc, Philippine Phar-

color t-shirt (pink), lanyard (green), pillow (red), mug (violet) or document folder (yellow). September 11 was dedicated to promote awareness about the life, works and sacrifices of the Knights of Columbus Founder Orderwide, Fr. Michael J. McGivney and the

Anniversary / C2

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KCfApi Board Of Trustees for 2012-2013
DURING the meeting of the KCFAPI Board of Trustees, its members headed by Chairman Hilario G. Davide, Jr. welcomed the two (2) newly elected members of the Board, Bro. Alonso L. Tan and Bro. Juan Abraham O. Abando. Bro. Alonso L. Tan, a B.S. Commerce Major in Management graduate from the University of the East who also studied Bureau of Small Business (General Management Course) at the Ateneo De Manila University, is presently a member of the Knights of Columbus Supreme Board of Directors and President of the two KCFAPI Foundations. Bro. Abando on the other hand, is a Certified Public Accountant by profession and a native of General Santos City. He is the incumbent State Secretary of the Mindanao Jurisdiction and a Past Grand Knight and Past Faithful Navigator. Both are the latest addition to the list of true fraternalists and Catholic gentlemen leading KCFAPI at present. These are men of integrity who are known for their outstanding contributions in their respective field of expertise: Former Chief Justice Hilario G. Davide, Jr., - Chairman of KCFAPI for the past three years, used to be Chief Justice of the Supreme Court from 1998 2005 and permanent representative to the United Nations from 2007-2010; Teodoro O. Arcenas, Jr. Vice Chairman of KCFAPI. A retired bank executive and Chairman of Keys Realty & Development Corporation; Guillermo N. Hernandez - KCFAPI President; Former Undersecretary / Chief Privatization Officer, Privatization & Management Office (agency under the Department of Finance; Arsenio Isidro G. Yap Corporate Treasurer; Director / Treasurer of Alysons Chemical Ent. and incumbent Luzon Deputy; Rodrigo N. Sorongon Trustee; U.S. Navy Retiree, incumbent Municipal Councilor of Sta. Barbara, Iloilo and incumbent Visayas Deputy; Balbino C. Fauni - Trustee; Director of Keys Realty & Development Corporation and incumbent Mindanao Deputy; Emiliano R. Deleverio Independent Trustee, a human rights advocate, practicing Lawyer and founder of Deleverio AgriBusiness Corporation; With the help of its new set of Board of Trustees, KCFAPI looks forward to achieving continuous growth and stability as it carries out its mission for the benefit of the KC family and the society.

The Cross

CBCP Monitor
September 24 - October 7, 2012

Vol. 16 No. 20

The Cause for the Beatification of Father George J. Willmann, SJ

EMULATING the virtues that bespeak of sanctity of a person, like Father George J. Willmann, is what we need today to draw us into a deeper living out of the fullest meaning of our Catholic Faith in the context of increasing secularism. Thus, we believe, is one of the most important objectives in initiating the Cause of the good Father George. As prescribed by the Congregation for Causes of Saints in Rome, a person may be elevated to the honors of the altar if he has lived up to a heroic degree of the supernatural virtues of faith, hope and charity, as well as the cardinal virtues of prudence, justice, fortitude and temperance. We believe that Father Willmann practiced them all to an exceptional degree. In order to establish and widen the fame of Sanctity of Father Willmann, may we call on all Brother Knights, their families and friends to respond to the following appeal: Submission of testimonies on Fr. Willmanns heroic virtues; Recitation of Prayer for his Beatification in private and during K of C meetings and affairs; Invocation of his intercession in our prayers; Submission of Reports on answered prayers through the intercession of Father Willmann; Visitation of his tomb in the Sacred Heart Novitiate Cemetery, Novaliches, Quezon City. Membership to Fr. George J. Willmann Fellows. This is a challenge for all of us Knights of Columbus members, who dearly love Father George J. Willmann, SJ.

Homily of Most Rev. David William Antonio, auxiliary bishop of Nueva Segovia, on the 35th Death Anniversary of fr. George J. Willmann

14 September 2012 San Ag ustin Church, Intramuros, Manila

IN keeping with our revered Catholic tradition we give importance to the death anniversaries of saintly people more than their birthdays because of the belief that their death is actually their birth unto eternal life. It is therefore right that we gather today to remember and to celebrate the 35th anniversary of Fr. George Willmans birth unto eternal life which providentially falls on the Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross. We come together to offer praise and thanksgiving to the God of fidelity for the gift of Fr. George Willmann through whose saintly example and whose 44 years of visionary and inspiring leadership the Knights of Columbus in the Philippines underwent a period of great expansion and growth not only in terms of membership and activities but also of apostolic zeal and spirituality. I must confess that when I received the invitation to preside over this Eucharistic celebration my knowledge of Fr. Willmann and his ministry was next to nothing. For this reason I requested for literature and Mr. Alonso Tan promptly sent printed materials. Reading and re-reading the literature has developed in me a better appreciation and quiet admiration of this saintly priest and the religious congregation to which he belongs. In more ways than one, Fr. Willmann was Gods wonderful gift to this country, inasmuch as he was a special gift to the Philippine Church, above all to the Knights of Columbus. Fr. Willmann: Gods Gift to the country the Philippines We are profoundly grateful to Fr. Willmann for everything that he did for this country and for all that he means to the Philippine Church. His love for this country and for Filipinos is beyond question. He spent most of his time from 1936 to 1977 doing social work and humanitarian service to various sectors. He was the quintessential missionary and exemplary Knight of Columbus who welcomed every opportunity to render humble service in the spirit of true Christian charity. His biographers speak of his saintly virtues, his many achievements, the apostolic activities he spearheaded and the various groups and movements he organized in order to meet the needs of various sectors of Philippine society especially the underprivileged. During the Japanese occupation he led the knights in providing relief and recreation for released prisoners of war. The imprisonment and torture that he endured under the Japanese did not prevent him from carrying out his priestly mission to give consolation and assistance to the needy. It was this genuine compassion for the least, the neglected and the disadvantaged that impelled him to establish various organizations such as: o Catholic Youth Organization in the Philippines 1938 (underprivileged Manila youth to preserve them from the temptations of lawlessness and immorality) o Columbian Squires in the Philippines 1950 (help build Christian character among adolescents, 13-18 yrs. old, so that they can live in secular world and still keep Christ at the center of their lives; as well as develop their leadership potentials). o Daughters of Isabela in the Philippines 1951 later reorganized as Daughters of Mary Immaculate 1977, o Columbian Farmers Aid Association 1951 later reorganized under the name of Knights of Columbus Community Service Inc. 1962, = social action arm of the Knights of Columbus in the Philippines. o Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association of the Philippines, Inc. 1958, whose 54th founding anniversary we celebrate today! = mutual benefit association for K of C members to help families of Knights obtain security and stability. o Knights of Columbus Philippines Foundation, Inc. 1971 = provides educational benefits for poor but deserving students and fund drives in times of calamities. An unshakable proof of his love for this country and its people was his desire to become a naturalized Filipino citizen. In imitation of Jesus, the Son of God who, in the mystery of Incarnation showed the genuineness of his humility and love for humanity by embracing our human condition, Father Willmann manifested his love for and solidarity with his Filipino brothers and sisters by becoming himself a Filipino. He may not have realized it but by this sheer manifestation of love and selflessness he made us recognize our dignity and worth. By becoming one like us and by pitching his tent among us (John 1:14) he saw Filipinos with the eyes of faith unlike many of his white contemporaries who cast a condescending look and called them their little brown brothers. By becoming a Filipino citizen Father Willmann showed us that Filipinos are not only worth dying for; they are also worth living for! Fr. Willmann: a gift to the Philippine Church especially to the Knights of Columbus Father Willmann is indeed an extraordinary gift to the Philippine Church. The witness of His life and ministry gives us priests and religious an inspiring example to follow. Likewise, he shows the Knights of Columbus in the Philippines a clear apostolic path to pursue. 1. HE GAVE US AN EXAMPLE OF SERVANT-LEADERSHIP. The story of his life and ministry speaks of his SERVANT MIND AND HEART reflective of the heart and mind of JESUS THE GOOD SHEPHERD who knows his sheep by name and is always ready to lay down his life for the flock that they may have life in its fullness. As a true son of Ignatius of Loyola, he was A MAN FOR OTHERS through and through. More than ever, we need to tell the world about the inspiring life-stories of saintly people like Father Willmann, especially during these times when the credibility and holiness of the Catholic Church and its leadership is being questioned. To paraphrase what Angelo Cardinal Amato (Prefect for Congregation for Causes of Saints) said: it is easy to understand how people can question the Churchs holiness when they see the sinful behaviour of some of its members. But (the saintly lives), the good, loving and charitable activities of other members (such as Fr. Willmann) are the best evidence that the church truly is the holy body of Christ. 2. HE GAVE THE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS IN THE PHILIPPINES THE ESSENTIAL ORIENTATION OF THEIR APOSTOLATE. From the life-story of Father Willmann it is quite clear that one of the priorities of the organization is ENGAGEMENT IN SOCIAL MINISTRY as demanded by the socio-economic, cultural and religious context in which the members live. Effectiveness or fruitfulness of social ministry requires formation of Christian character as well as rootedness in a vibrant spirituality an on-going and ever-deepening relationship of intimacy with God. This living and loving relationship with God manifests itself and is validated by charity for others especially the needy. FR. WILLMANNS SOCIAL MINISTRY is marked by PREFERENTIAL LOVE FOR THE POOR, LOVE FOR AND LOYALTY TO THE CHURCH, and COURAGE TO CONFRONT THE ENEMIES OF THE FAITH. a. Preferential Love for the Poor Father Willmanns life story underlines the imperative of the preferential option/love for the poor in the social apostolate. In fact, from the very beginning of his ministry as a Jesuit priest he had shown more interest in working for the poor than working in the academe. The decision to focus his ministry on the underprivileged speaks of his burning love for the least and last of Gods people. Fr. James Reuter, S.J. noted in his book The Gentle Warrior, a biography of Fr. George Willmann, that more remarkable than the many beautiful things he did for the poor is his attitude toward them. He had reverence for the poor insofar as for him poverty was a mark of Gods favour (205). b. Love for the Church Father Willmanns loyalty and love for the Church manifested itself in various ways. It was shown in the love, respect and obedience he humbly and readily gave to his own religious superiors as well as the Churchs hierarchy. As far as he was able he willingly gave his service, his support and cooperation to the Churchs leadership. Another indication of this love for the Church was his concern for vocations to the priesthood and religious life. It is gratifying to mention that following the good example of Fr. Willmann the Knights of Columbus in the Philippines has been quite supportive of the initiatives and projects of the Philippine Church Hierarchy especially in terms of financial assistance such as the publication of important documents, repairs on the CBCP headquarters, Priests Hospitalization Fund, Women Advocacy Project, CBCP Media, among others. On a personal note, I am grateful to Fr. Willmann for sowing the seeds of generosity and care for priestly vocations among the Knights. Fr. Jose Burgos Council in Vigan, drawing inspiration from Fr. Willmann, extended some financial assistance to me during the course of my theological studies. Years later, as a Rector of the seminary I witnessed the Columbian magnanimity and love for the Church in the support that the Fr. Willmann Charities, Inc., gave to poor but deserving seminarians. As a bishop it is the characteristic generosity of the Knights of Columbus that I see in the help extended to priests who are sent by their bishops to do further studies. c. Courage to Confront the Ideological Threats to Catholic Faith One of the notable things that Fr. Willmann did when he assumed leadership of the Knights of Columbus in the Philippines was to organize the First Knights of Columbus National Convention which focused on the threats of Communism in the Philippines. Clearly, he recognized that this ideology had the power to undermine the Catholic faith. Today, we are aware that the communist ideology has lost its allure and its power to destroy religion. Nonetheless, it is important that in the spirit of Fr. Willmann we need to be ever vigilant so that we can readily name and unmask the contemporary ideologies, lifestyles or thought-patterns that threaten Christian faith and morality. For example, Pope Benedict XVI has alerted us to the threat of relativism which denies the existence of absolute values and the objective norms of morality. Lest we forget, the various forms and manifestations of secularism, materialism and hedonism continue to cause a lot of damage to our religious culture. Father Willmann would remind us to be always ready to render an account of our own hopethat is, to defend the integrity of our Catholic faith, to defend the Gospel of Life against the Culture of Death. To sum up the life and ministry of this saintly priest and exemplary knight we can borrow the words of the psalmist, Love for your house, O Lord, consumes me! (Ps 69: 9; John 2:17). Indeed, as a man of God, everything that he did was 'ad majorem Dei gloriam,' for the greater glory of God. He was imbued with a spirit of profound pastoral charity and was attentive to all situations, especially the most difficult, lovingly close to those who were lost, the poor, the suffering. He truly was a man for others and had taught the Knights of Columbus to follow his awe-inspiring exampleas their five major service programs (Church, Community, Family, Youth, Council) show. I would like to believe that right now, from heaven Fr. George Willmann is cheerfully looking down on the Knights of Columbus in the Philippines. The organization has indeed come a long way. Fr. Michael McGivney sowed the seed of Columbianism, Fr. Willmann watered it, and God in his Providence caused it to grow and bear much fruit. May it continue to be fructiferous so that more people may benefit and that God may be better glorified.

Anniversary / C1

Father of K of C in the Philippines Fr. George J. Willmann, SJ. A storytelling was conducted among the 30 pre-schoolers of Brgy. 658 headed by Roberto T. Cruz, Executive Director of KC Foundations. The children were provided crayons, sketchpads, snacks, and giveaways. A drawing contest about Fr. McGivney and Fr. Willmann was also held based on the stories told by Brother Cruz and Ms. Denise Solina together with KCFAPI employee Marianne Malabanan. Souvenir items were given to preschool teacher Ms. Lyn Salazar of Manila Day Care Center of Brgy. 658-70. September 12 saw the twin launching of KC C.A.R.S. Riders (Capital Accumulator, Assurance Plan, Retire Plus, Super Saver Plan) and the Davide Watch at the KCFAPI main office headed by Vice President

of C and KCFAPI employees attended the concelebrated TV Mass in the morning at the San Agustin Church. Nueva Segovia Auxiliary Bishop David William Antonio, DD was the main presider. Cocelebrants were the KCFAPI Spiritual Director Msgr. Pedro Quitorio III, Fr. Joel Carioso, Fr. William Araa, OSA, Fr. Peter Casio OSA, Fr. Isabelo San Luis, SVD, Fr. Ramelle Rigunay, Fr. Arnold Sta. Maria, and Fr. Ricky Villar. Lectors were Brother Raoul Villanueva (1st reading), Brother Jose Cuaresma (Responsorial Psalm); Brother Ruperto Somera (2nd reading); and KCFAPI Pres. Guillermo Hernandez (Prayers of the Faithful). KCFAPI Chairman Davide led the Prayer for the Beatification of Fr. George J. Willmann, SJ while Justice Jose Reyes, Jr. and family led the Prayer for the Unity of the

for Fraternal Benefits Group Gari M. San Sebastian. The KCFAPI watch has an inscription of the signature of KCFAPI Chairman Hilario Davide, Jr., former Chief Justice. All active fraternal counselors and area/unit managers are qualified to acquire the exclusive edition of Davide watch. The incentive program runs from August 1 to December 30, 2012. Moreover, a Wealth Management and Estate Planning Seminar was also conducted by Atty. Reynaldo G. Geronimo as the resource speaker. Executive Vice President Ma. Theresa G. Curia gave her opening remarks while KCFAPI President Guillermo N. Hernandez delivered his message during the Fraternal Benefits Group Day. A mini concert and dinner dance for a cause was held on September 13 as part of the KCFAPI weeklong celebration. It aimed to raise funds to cover the medical and hospitalization needs of the KC Priest-Scholars. It was held at the Manila Grand Opera Hotel. The last day of the weeklong celebration was in line with the commemoration of the 35th death anniversary of Fr. George J. Willmann, SJ. Hundreds of K

Family. Participants in the offertory were Visayas Deputy Rodrigo Sorongon, KCFAPI Exec. Vice President Ma. Theresa Curia, Mindanao Deputy Balbino Fauni, KEYS Realty President Henry Reyes, KCFAPI Trustee Juan Abando, KCFAPI ViceChairman Teodoro Arcenas, Jr., Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Teodoro, Atty. and Mrs. Rene Sarmiento, MACE Director Danilo Sanchez,

and Brother Boni Martinez. Luzon Deputy Arsenio Isidro Yap and his wife brought wine and ciborium to the altar. Brother Bobby Cruz orchestrated the mass songs and conducted the KCFAPI Chorale and friends. At the end of the Eucharistic celebration, the Luzon Jurisdiction and KCFAPI gave a posthumous award to the late Secretary of Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Jesse M. Robredo. (Yen Ocampo)

CBCP Monitor
Vol. 16 No. 20
September 24 - October 7, 2012

The Cross
Of course, the concern of the Holy Father regarding unprecedented and new threats to the free exercise of religion in America must be understood in light of the administrations actions first in the Supreme Court case of Hosanna-Tabor vs. E.E.O.C. and then in its more recent U.S. Department of Health and Human Services mandate requiring health insurance to cover contraceptives, sterilization and abortifacient drugs. We have opposed the HHS mandate because it forces Catholics and all Americans to participate in actions that violate our conscience. The mandate also violates the right of Catholic employersincluding the Knights of Columbusnot to be forced to pay for or be complicit with procedures and prescriptions that are intrinsically evil. The Knights of Columbus is committed to ethical and sustainable business practices. As a company, we will not invest in other companies that are not morally or economically sustainable. If an investment does not work morally, we should not invest in it. The HHS mandate, however, would force the Knights of Columbus as an employer to provide services and products as part of our employees health insurance that we would never invest in. Ironically, the administration has exempted more than 190 million health plan participants and beneficiaries from its health insurance mandatebut it refuses to do so on the basis of religious liberty and rights of conscience. Religious liberty is not simply another political issue. It cannot be compromised or recognized for some and denied to others. It is fundamental to the dignity of the human person and a basic human right. And like the right to life it, too, is inviolable. Restricting the free exercise of religion for individuals and institutions is not just politics as usual; it is, like abortion, intrinsically evil, and no competing political consideration can make it less evil. The U.S. bishops have made clear in their document Faithful Citizenship that we have a duty to avoid being complicit with intrinsic evil. They have even said, It is important to be clear that the political choices faced by citizens may affect the individuals salvation. As Knights, we have been steadfast in refusing to invest in companies that provide intrinsically evil products. We need to follow those same values when we vote. It is time that, as voters, we refuse to support politicians who promote intrinsically evil policies. And it is time for us to apply such a standard universally, to every candidate in every race for every office. As I stated in my annual report to the convention, the Knights of Columbus will continue to pursue its great mission of building up a new culture of life and a civilization of love through its witness to our principles of charity, unity and fraternity. We will continue to be what our Holy Fathers message described when it recognized the Knights of Columbus as a pioneer in the development of the modern lay apostolate. But to do this we must continue to have the freedom of religious exercise that is guaranteed by the First Amendment. It is my sincere hope that

C3

Defending Our Inviolable Rights

By Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson
DURING this years Supreme Convention, we were privileged to receive an extraordinary message from the Holy Father conveyed by Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone. Responding to the theme of our convention, Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land, the message said: At a time when concerted efforts are being made to redefine and restrict the exercise of the right to religious freedom, the Knights of Columbus [has] worked tirelessly to help the Catholic community recognize and respond to the unprecedented gravity of these new threats to the Churchs liberty and public moral witness. By defending the right of all religious believers, as individual citizens and in their institutions, to work responsibly in shaping a democratic society inspired by their deepest beliefs, values and aspirations, your Order has proudly lived up to the high religious and patriotic principles which inspired its founding.

Catholics will defend our fundamental human rights to life and religious liberty in the courts and at the ballot box against those

who would seek to make faithful Catholics complicit with intrinsically evil actions and policies. Vivat Jesus!

Angelito A. Bala

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How do insurers handle high risk applicants?
A. The previous column talked about standard and substandard life insurance ratings. An applicant whose risk evaluation borders on the substandard classification will need to pay higher contributions during the life of the benefit certificate (BC) due to a permanent medical impairment compared to a life rated as standard risk. The extra contribution increases as the applicants age increases. On some cases, a risk is classified as standard by Underwriting but because of the applicants occupation or avocation, the applicant is assessed extra contributions to cover the increased mortality risk. If the applicant-insured changes job or hobby, the extra risk contribution may be lifted. The extra contribution is usually a flat or fixed amount regardless of insurance age but varies due to the amount of protection desired. Still, there are cases when an insured is not asked to fork additional contributions but the insurance coverage is reduced at the start then gradually increases over time. This method is normally applied to child insurance called juvenile lien. This is due to the unusually high incidence of deaths among children less than three years old. An example would be the initial coverage is twenty five percent (25%) of the desired insurance protection valid for one BC year. On the second BC year, the death benefit is increased to fifty percent (50%), then seventy five percent (75%) and eventually one hundred percent (100%) of the insurance applied for. A pregnancy lien is sometimes offered but is now rarely used and is limited to a maximum of nine months. The common practice nowadays is to request the pregnant applicant to postpone the application for insurance until after her delivery. This is to avoid several instances of complications or even death due to pregnancy-related conditions. For specific cases, an insurer may affix an endorsement expanding the list of certain risks or events considered as excluded risks that would otherwise obligate the company to settle the benefit claim. For instance, there is a murder exclusion endorsement that disallows the payment of claim if the cause of death is due to murder. Politicians or local officials, like Barangay Tanod or Barangay Chairman are normally slapped higher contributions because of the many reported or unreported deaths normally associated to their elective position. Instead of extra contributions, a murder exclusion endorsement is recommended. Another risk management tool is for the insurer to seek reinsurance coverage. This risk is shared or transferred to another party. If reinsurance is not an option, the insurer can still transfer or distribute the risk through an insurance pool. A lead insurer collects the contributions from the insured and shares or distributes the same to participants in the pool based on an agreement. In case of death of the insured, the pool participants bind themselves in the settlement of the claim. Before any contract of insurance is issued, the applicant for insurance is informed by the insurer and he must agree to the increased contribution, lien or exclusion clause. If he does not agree, he can always shop around for a better deal on another insurance provider.

Cebus Ecotech Center hosts GK, FS seminar

THE Visayas Jurisdiction of the Knights of Columbus in the Philippines has conducted a Grand Knights and Financial Secretaries training in Ecotech Center, Lahug, Cebu City last September 9. The training was attended by 75 participants coming mostly from Central Cebu. It was formally opened by Brother Allan Ouano, who also discussed some points on Protocol and proper council deliberations. Visayas Deputy Rodrigo N. Sorongon gave an intensive discussion on Grand Knights' duties and responsibilities as well as council operations. He likewise emphasized the membership quota of each council and current promotional membership campaign of the Jurisdiction for the Council. As stated in the memorandum, the first 20 councils to recruit 30 new members (net) will receive P2,000, provided all the dues are paid and forms 185 and 365 are submitted on or before September 30, 2012. Past State Deputy Dionisio Esteban, Jr. delivered a short inspirational message to all the participants. Following this, State Secretary Anthony Nazario narrated that during the Financial Secretaries' Training, he discussed the qualifications of financial secretaries, their duties and responsibilities in the council and the familiarization of the basic forms and reports. Participants were also taught on how to compute SCA and VDA. The Financial Secretaries and Grand Knights were also informed to clean up their rosters for updating. The event was also attended by Regional Deputy Wenceslao Canete, Jr., by the Three Provincial Deputies of Central Visayas and by Four District Deputies in the area. The Training succesfully ended at about 12:15 in the afternoon. (VizNews)

Luzon Jurisdiction to conduct skills training, livelihood opportunities

THE Luzon Jurisdiction of the Knights of Columbus in the Philippines will conduct livelihood training on Small Engine Repair and Maintenance on October 1-19, 2012 at the 3rd/f KCFAPI Building, Intramuros, Manila. The training is equivalent to 15 days or 120 hours, from Monday to Friday between 8:00 in the morning until 5:00 in the afternoon. Interested participants should be endorsed by the Grand Knight or District Deputy. Registration is on a first come-first serve basis from August 27 to September 25, 2012. Interested parties may call telephone numbers 527-2245 or 527-2248 and look for Mon Sanchez. (LuzonNews)

Puno Alay Ko sa Kalikasan Year 5 kicks off

THE Luzon Jurisdiction of the Knights of Columbus in the Philippines organized a tree planting project in line with the objective of the Order to preserve and protect the environment and address the threat of global warming. Dubbed as Puno Alay Ko Sa Kalikasan Year 5, the undertaking was held September 15 at the Sacred Heart Novitiate in Novaliches, Quezon City. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-National Capital Region (DENR-NCR) coordinated the project, which was also held in commemoration of the 35th Death Anniversary of Fr. George J. Willmann, SJ, local founder of the Knights of Columbus in the country. Five hectares of land inside the compound of the Sacred Heart Novitiate have been allocated for the project to be planted with 2,500 seedlings. The activity started with a Eucharistic celebration at 6:30 in the morning led by Novaliches Bishop Antonio R. Tobias, DD. State Officer Alejandro V. Alvaira gave a short talk on the life of Fr. George J. Willmann; while Luzon Deputy Arsenio Isidro Yap delivered a special message. The knights laid a wreath at the grave of Fr. Willmann before proceeding to the planting site. (Luzon News)

2012 NCR Duckpin Tournament opens

THE annual National Capital Region (NCR) Duckpin Bowling Tournament in honor of Luzon Deputy Arsenio Isidro Yap was held on Sept. 23 at the RJ Bowling Lanes, Congressional Road, Project 8, in Quezon City. Dubbed as The Luzon Deputy Cup, the tournament was hosted by the Balintawak Council 8014. According to State Program Director Bonifacio B. Martinez, All councils from South, East and North sectors of Metro Manila were invited to join and be part of the tournament." During the past year, Supreme Director and Immediate Past Luzon Deputy Alonso L. Tan graced the 2011 OneDay, One-Team Inter-District Duckpin Bowling Tournament as guest of honor and speaker. He likewise led the ceremonial throwing of bowling duckpin on March 12, 2011 held at DJ Paradise Bowling Lanes in Malolos City, Bulacan. Last years tournament was organized by the Knights of Columbus Luzon Jurisdiction Round Table of District Deputies (RTDD), Group 24 of Diocese of Malolos. (LuzonNews)

Nueva Vizcaya conducts GK & FS Seminar

BROTHER Knights in Nueva Vizcaya have initiated a Grand Knights and Financial Secretaries Seminar on August 18 held at the Governors' Garden, Solano, Nueva Vizcaya. A total of 175 Grand Knights, Financial Secretaries and other council officers from the Diocese of Bayombong and Apostolic Vicariate of Bontoc-Lagawe have attended the whole day seminar. Luzon Deputy Arsenio Isidro G. Yap discussed major policies and objectives, while State Seminar Director Jaime R. Castillo talked about the duties and responsibilities of Grand Knights. State Ceremonial Director Deogenes V. Francia tackled the Protocol and Policies while Technical Assistant Ramon C. Sanchez talked on the duties of a Financial Secretary and on line forms/ reporting. The Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association of the Philippines, Inc. (KCFAPI) Vice President for Fraternal Benefits Group Gari M. San Sebastian was present to promote the insurance policies of the KCFAPI. Regional Membership Chairman and over-all seminar coordinator Armando C. Gonzales, MFD facilitated the open forum. District Deputy of B-61 Jacinto L. Cabalonga gave the welcome remarks and District Deputy Edwin A. Dincog, B-88 Apostolic Vicariate of Bontoc-Lagawe acted as emcee during the occasion. (LuzonNews)

Luzon Jurisdiction holds GK, fS seminars

FIFTEEN State Officers of the Luzon Jurisdiction visited different provinces in Luzon region to conduct spiritual activities and programs from August 24 until August 26. Calling themselves weekend Knight Travelers the groups activity include conducting a Grand Knights and Financial Secretaries seminar which served as orientation on the duties and responsibilities of the newly installed GK and FS. On August 24, the first group headed by Luzon Deputy Arsenio Isidro G. Yap left Manila towards Mountain Province to hold two Charter Presentations and one Grand Knights (GK) and Financial Secretaries (FS) Seminar. With him were State Warden Pascual C. Carbero, State Seminar Director Jaime Castillo, Technical Assistant Ramon C. Sanchez and Luzon Driver Rodolfo de Guzman. Bro. Carbero and Bro. Castillo dropped off at Baguio City to give the GK and FS Seminar at the Provincial Capitol, in La Trinidad, Benguet on August 25. The two speakers were met at Baguio City by Regional Membership Chairman Salvador Aspuria (over all coordinator & travel guide) and the District Deputies of Baguio. Around 101 participants including one chaplain joined the seminar. Luzon Deputy Yap was able to catch up with the seminar to deliver his talk. Bro. Yap, Bro. Sanchez and Bro. Aspuria meanwhile, travelled from Baguio City for another 5 hours to Sabangan, Mountain Province to present the charter of Council 15323. The group stopped by Mt. Data Hotel where they stayed overnight. Mt. Data is still about an hour drive away from Council 15323 Pingad, Sabangan. The second group headed by State Program Director Bonifacio B. Martinez was composed of State Membership Director Ramoncito A. Ocampo, New Council Development Chairman Efren V. Mendoza (who served as over all coordinator), State Membership Recruitment Chairman Conrado S. Dator Jr. and Regional Membership Chairman Armand Gonzales. The group left Manila on August 24 to conduct GK & FS Seminar at Bicol State University, Naga City. Around a hundred participants from the Archdiocese of Nueva Caceres attended the seminar on August 25. They went back to Manila August 26. (Ramon C. Sanchez/Luzon News)

Council 5739 adopts a community in Pangasinan

THE Knights of Columbus Council 5739 of the St. Fabian, Pope and Martyr Parish has committed support to the community of Sitio Biew, Brgy. Tocok, San Fabian, Pangasinan. According to the www.sanfabianparish.blogspot.com, the members of the Knights of Columbus Council 5739 have been conducting regular meetings with the residents and have been providing opportunities for growth and development through spiritual formation as well as livelihood skills training. The community has 25 families majority of whom are migrants who have settled there in search of a better place to live in. Based on the assessments by the local Brother Knights, the community they adopted need portable drinking water, bathrooms and toilets for their basic personal needs, and livelihood opportunities especially for the women of the community to help augment the meager income of the menfolk. The Council 5739 led by Grand Knight James Gutay has been helping and lending their support to the community by building their houses in the newly constructed Holy Family Village. The flood waters of Typhoon Pepeng in 2009 have destroyed and washed away their houses and lands. (KC News)

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The Cross
SIXTY-EIGHT Brother Knights including Program Directors, Membership Directors, and District Deputies have attended the first leg of the Grand Knights and Financial Secretaries Training Program conducted by the Mindanao Jurisdiction on August 18 held at the Clubhouse of Council 4639, Bula Road, General Santos City. Topics discussed and highlighted were focused on the Performance of Mindanao Jurisdiction; Objectives and target for the next Columbian year 2012-2013; Duties and responsibilities of the GK/FS; and Basic required reports. The activity had a workshop on how to become a Star Council Awardee. Insurance Promotion was handled by Brother Adrian Boston, Fraternal Benefits Manager for

CBCP Monitor

September 24 - October 7, 2012

Vol. 16 No. 20

Mindanao Jurisdiction conducts 1st leg of GK, FS

Mindanao. Facilitators were State Membership Director Volmar Clavano, State Newsletter Editor Valentin Loable and Mindanao State Deputy Balbino Fauni. Despite the success of our activities, we have cancelled our scheduled seminar in Basilan due to [unstable peace and order situation] there. We hope and pray the situation will not impact on our membership growth in the city. After the seminar in Zamboanga city there will be a first Degree exemplification in the evening under the area of District Deputy Victor Montero, our Top DD for Columbian year 2011-2012, Fauni said. Also present were the Regional Deputy and Provincial deputies of Region XI. The seminar started at 9 a.m. and ended at 2:30 p.m. (KC MindaNews)

Most Rev. Jose S. Palma, DD together with His Excellency Ricardo J. Cardinal Vidal and Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Tagle,DD received a check representing the interest earned in 2011 on the P10 Million CBCP Seed of Hope Fund established by KCFAPI in 2008. Also in photo are the officials of Knights of Columbus in the Philippines headed by Luzon Deputy Arsenio Isidro Yap and Supreme Director, Alonso L. Tan together with KCFAPI Officers led by its Chairman Hilario G. Davide, Jr. and President Guillermo N. Hernandez.

Immaculate Conception Mindanao Knights hold 26th Annual Convention Co.12608 sponsors 'Operation Tulong'
THE Association of the Knights of Columbus in the Diocese of Marbel (AKCDM) celebrated its 26th Annual Convention on 26 August 2012 at Surallah, South Cotabato. The annual gathering had Most Rev. Orlando B. Quevedo, Archbishop of the Diocese of Cotabato City, as Guest Speaker. This is an annual gathering of Brother Knights in the Diocese of Marbel. There were 481 local Brother Knights who participated in the event. All of them belong to the Diocese of Marbel. Most Rev. Bishop Dinualdo Gutierrez, DD is the original proponent of this annual activity, said Knights of Columbus Mindanao Deputy Balbino Fauni. Fauni cited that the performance of the Mindanao Jurisdiction for the Columbian year 2011-2012 has achieved more than its target. Mindanao got the highest percentage in the entire Philippine jurisdiction. For the New Council Development Mindanao got 160% versus its target. We organized 32 new councils from a target of 20 councils, Fauni added. Hon. Mayor Romulo Solivio of the municipality of Surallah delivered his welcome address, while Most Rev. Dinualdo D. Gutierrez, D.D and Archbishop Quevedo concelebrated the mass. Again, we are glad to say Mindanao has bested all State
Photo shows members of the Association of the Knights of Columbus in the Diocese of Marbel.

THE Mindanao Jurisdictions Immaculate Conception Council 12608 in Barangay Labangal, General Santos City has conducted an "Operation Tulong" to the marginalized and depressed areas in the municipality of Maasim, Sarangani Province last August 27. Our Regional Deputy Jaime Bansuelo and District Deputy Blandino Dequilla together with our Grand Knight Remy Silvano and members of the said coun-

cil distributed used clothing to about 250 families, said Mindanao State Deputy Balbino Fauni. He added that the members of the Philippine National Police in Maasim headed by Police Officer Boni Condes,Jr. also joined them in distributing the relief goods. The recipient families were very much thankful and happy for the generous deeds done by the Knights of Columbus Brothers, Fauni said. (KC MindaNews)

Deputies 72 State Deputies. Our focus this Columbian year is to reactivate suspended councils and prevent suspension of councils. Membership recruitment and the CMBP [Council Mortuary Benefit Plan] for every council will be

given a greater push, Fauni stated. The first convention of the Association of the Knights of Columbus in the Diocese of Marbel was held in Polomolok, South Cotabato 26years ago. (KC MindaNews)

Maharlika, Padre Gomez Assemblies hold joint installation of officers

THE Knights of Columbus-Maharlika and Padre Gomez Assemblies had a joint installation of assembly officers on September 1 held at the Aventura Hall of the Philippine Heart Center for Asia in East Avenue, Quezon City. The event started with a Eucharistic celebration led by Cubao Bishop Honesto F. Ongtioco, DD together with the Parish Priests of the constituting councils and the Sta. Teresita Parish Chorale. We are proud of our Knights of Columbus it is a growing fraternal organization and the largest in the whole world. We are number two in the Orderwide (from number three). We always go beyond the quota, said Ongtioco. The Cubao Bishop and Luzon State Chaplain also cited they are emphasizing the spiritual development of the Brother Knights in the Philippines. They should know their duties and responsibilities and we just finished a manual that is being used to precisely attend to the spiritual program of the Knights of Columbus, he added. Assemblies officers were installed by the Master of the 4th Degree Deovides F. Reyes assisted by District Marshall Christian M. Balis. The newly installed Faithful Navigators were Danilo F. Del Rosario for the Maharlika Assembly and Jose F. Cuaresma for the Padre Gomez Assembly. Congratulations, Daddy, I know that you are doing your very best. You have lots of sacrifices to serve your fellow Filipinos. I hope andito si Mommy para siya ang kasama mo habang nilalagyan ka ng medal. Ganun pa man I know mommy is very proud of

Pque Diocesan Coordinating Body, Circle Officers to mark 2nd anniv, 3rd induction ceremonies
THE Diocesan Coordinating Body of Paraaque (DCBP) and the Diocesan Circle Officers marked its second anniversary and third induction ceremonies on September 29 with the theme The Power of One. The celebration was held at 4 p.m. at the Savvy-25 Covered Court, Jose Pio and Shiela Drives, Savvy-25 Subdivision, Km 18, Paraaque City. Although this theme is intended by the Supreme Council for membership development, The Power of One doesn't only convey the message to recruit but it also delivers a multitude of principles with regard to our cause as Knights and Squires. I, and my colleagues in the DCBP, believe that The Power of One also denotes that one small act of faith and service, if done by all, will result in a massive action which furthers our intention to uplift humanity as a whole, said Jose R. Autencio III, Diocesan Area Chairman. The occasion has a contribution fee of P250.00 for Knights or adults and P150.00 for Squires or children. Furthermore, the Diocesan Coordinating Body of Paraaque has released the list of Districts, Councils and Circles that achieved awards in Membership Development and Circle Development for CY 20112012 last September 8, 2012. The award certificates were presented on the occasion by Worthy Immediate Former Diocesan Area Chairman, George Michael T. Tuyay along with the honored guests, Worthy Luzon State Secretary Joven B. Joaquin, and Worthy Luzon Squires Chairman Jose F. Cuaresma. We are confident on the presence of our fellow Brother Knights, as much as we believe that their support have always been, and will be, oriented to the physical, intellectual, spiritual and civic development of our younger brethren in Christ -the Columbian Squires, Autencio ended. (Luzon News)

you, said Atty. Abigail Justine C. Lilagan, Cuaresmas daughter. I congratulate him for his continuous service in the country and in doing his duty, said Del Rosarios wife Cherry. The affair was also attended by the Luzon Deputy Arsenio Isidro Yap as the guest speaker who reminded his Jurisdiction to support the Priests in their communities. Supreme Director Alonso L. Tan and other Luzon State Officers also attended the occasion. The Maharlika Assembly Newly Installed Officers were: Danilo F. Del Rosario, Faithful Navigator; Robert L. Palisoc, Faithful Chaplain; Rodolfo L. Calalay, Faithful Pilot; Francis K. Layag, Faithful Scribe; Rolando S. De Villa, Faithful Comptroller; James L. Layaoen, Faithful Purser; Cesar A. Santiago, Faithful Inner Sentinel; Edward N. Dela Pasion, Faithful Outer Sentinel; Francisco J. Bernabe, Faithful Admiral and Faithful Trustees 3 years; Rafael Villfranca, Faithful Trustees 2 years; and Margarito C. Villardo, Faithful Trustees 1 year. The Padre Gomez Assembly Newly Installed Officers were: Jose F. Cuaresma, Faithful Navigator; Alejandro V. Luna, Faithful

Chaplain; Fernando C. Cala, Faithful Pilot; Antonio L. Reyes, Faithful Scribe; Vicente M. Gannaban, Faithful Comptroller; Danilo T. Aguilar, Faithful Purser; Rapahel R. Ciriaco, Faithful Inner Sentinel; Feliciano R. Valdez Jr, Faithful Outer Sentinel; Norberto G. Pernites, Faithful Admiral; Rene M. De Ocampo, Faithful Trustees 3 years; Fernando C. Villanueva, Faithful Trustees 2 years, German F. Martinez, Faithful Trustees 1 year. District Deputies were: Gilbert U. Manauis (C-52), Margarito C. Villardo (C-53), Valentin Unarse (C-57), Edgardo Avila (C-54), Arthur Balmes (C-55), Jose Garduce (C-56), and Edgardo Cayetano (C-58). The Grand Knights of the Constituting Councils were: Francis K. Layag (C-12308), James L. Layaoen (C-4610), Nestor P. Aguinaldo, Sr. (C6116), Anton S. Maldo (C-8014), Jose V. Meren, Jr. (C-9122), Antonio M. Padua (C-3781), Salvador A. Anaya (C-7144), Meynard B. Guilles (C-8205), Jose Detona (C-8444), Vic Rito (C-12259), Vic Gannaban (C-5785), Bobby Cruz (C-3695), Arnold Elgario (C-13616), Jun Amparado (C-9052), Buenaventura Tan (C-6154), and Antonio Ranara (C-5310). (Luzon News)

The Gentle Warrior to be beatified - study

THE recently conducted study of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines-Media Office headed by Msgr. Pedro Quitorio III revealed that 97.80% of the Brother Knights support and believe that Fr. George J. Willmann, SJ will be beatified. The study titled Awareness, Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (AKAP) of the Knights of Columbus Members on the Life and Works of Fr. George J. Willmann, SJ as the Philippine Founder Towards Sainthood: A Support to Strengthen the Beatification Campaign aimed to determine the Awareness, Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of the Knights of Columbus members on the life and works of Fr. Willmann. One-hundred percent of the respondents are aware and knowledgeable on their fraternal organization and its objectives. Ninety-eight and forty percent of the respondents believe that the Knights of Columbus in the Philippines was able to meet its objectives; however, 1.60% believed that it has not. Majority of the respondents agreed that rendering pecuniary aid to its members is the primary objective of the K of C. Ninety-nine and fifty percent respondents are aware that Fr. George J. Willmann, SJ is the Founder of the Knights of Columbus in the Philippines and conscious on the life and works of Fr. George J. Willmann, SJ. When the respondents asked what circumstances on the life and works of Fr. Willmann are they aware of: 99.50% said that they are aware that Fr. Willmann became the oldest Jesuit internee at the UST internment camp during the Japanese occupation while, 98.60% knew that Fr. Willmann was a Jesuit from Brooklyn, New York, 97.30% knew that Fr. Willmann was one of the founders of Boys Town, 86.50% said Fr. Willmann gave not only a new vitality but also a new orientation in the K of C, 81.40% said Fr. Willmann was a Catholic Journalist, 81.10% knew that Fr. Willmann was granted his Filipino citizenship under Presidential Decree No.740 on July 1, 1975 and 67.60% of the respondents cited Fr. Willmann introduced the Catholic Youth Organization (CYO). Majority of the respondents agreed strongly that Fr. Willmann is a good person and has heroic virtues, while, Neutral was given on the statement that

Luzon Squires to conduct seminar on effective leadership

THE Luzon Jurisdiction conducted a Squires Chief Counselors and Chief Squires Seminar on September 22, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Fr. George J. Willmann SJ Multipurpose Hall, 3/F KCFAPI Building, Gen. Luna corner Sta. Potenciana Sts., Intramuros, Manila. The seminar was held to reorient the Columbian Squires, the youth organization of the Knights of Columbus on their duties and responsibilities. According to Luzon Columbian Squires Chairman Jose F. Cuaresma, the seminar also provided some ways on how to run the affairs of the Circles, it likewise helped the Squires to become familiarized with the different reports or forms needed to submit to the Supreme Council and Luzon Jurisdiction; and acquainted them with the different programs of the Columbian Squires. (LuzonNews)

Fr. Willmann was so concerned with the plight of the farmers that he organized the Columbian Farmers Aid Association to start and develop an irrigation system and thus improve rice production. Moreover, 100% of the respondents cited they are participating on the Beatification campaign of Fr. George J. Willmann, SJ. Majority of the respondents are proud to be brother knights, they show loyalty to their fraternal association, they want to know more about Fr. Willmann and his heroic virtues, and they are also interested to participate on the activities and programs concerning the beatification campaign of Fr. Willmann. In general, 97.80% of the respondents believed that Fr. Willmann will be beatified; while 1.90% said they do not believe; and 0.30% said maybe. The Study used the Theory of Reasoned Action by Ajzen & Fishbein and used the descriptive design of research through a survey method with the Slovin's Formula Sampling Technique in order to determine the social response from the respondents to the formulated questionnaire. Respondents were the Brother

Knights in the Diocese of Cabanatuan. Likert scale format was used for the data interpretation of the weighted-mean formula. Moreover, the tally was evaluated by the Twin Mathematicians Cesar and Alex Bermundo of the Ateneo De Naga. The Bermundos used their invented software I Bank Formulator and Test Formulator to get accurate data. They were included in the Outstanding Young Scientists, Inc. (OYSI) of the Department of Science and TechnologyNational Academy of Science and Technology. The study determined the participation and reasoned action of the Knights of Columbus members on the activities, projects and programs of the NEC on the life and works of Fr. Willmann. The result of the study conducted by the CBCP-Media Office will also help promote the life and works of Fr. Willmann and will determine the weakness and strength of the National Executive Committee on the beatification campaign of the Knights of Columbus local founder, no other than Fr. George J. Willmann, SJ dubbed as the The Gentle Warrior. (Yen Ocampo)