Mercy is more than just a word.

It is more than just a feeling that one gets at looking at a more

disadvantaged person.

Mercy is a virtue that requires action.

Mercy without action is not mercy. It is pride. It is arrogance. It is not Christian.

As we usher in the Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy, we are reminded by our dear Papa Francesco of
God’s infinite mercy. He said in his homily which announced the Holy Year of Mercy (March 13, 2015), “He
really is ‘rich in mercy’ and extends His mercy with abundance over those who turn to Him with a sincere
heart.”

In this issue of Brown Prophets, we explore the many opportunities that our Carmelite brothers in the
scholastic communities of St. Elijah and St. Elisha, explored, experienced, and shared God’s mercy with
the people they come into contact with – be they their fellow Carmelite brothers, their fellow students at
the Inter-Congregational Theological Center (ICTC), their fellow seminarians and religious from different
congregations, or the people in their different apostolate areas and ministries.

Here we see the richness of God’s mercy as reflected in our Carmelite brothers’ journey. First, we hear
from Br. Paul Rey who reflects on his experience with the sick of the University of the Philippine’s Philippine
General Hospital. Br. Marvin then shares his reflections on Laudato Si’, Pope Francis’ most recent encyclical
on the environment, while Br. Miguel shares his journey back to Carmel.

And then we find Br. Nice sharing his experience on Pope Francis’ visit to the Philippines last January
16, while Br. Mannie shares his story on their transfer to the depressed community of Pureza in Sta. Mesa,
Manila. Living with the poor is part of the Philippine Carmelites’ initial formation program.

Br. Clark also shares his experience on the last gathering of Carmelite formands, exploring the theme
of brotherhood, while Br. Vinson shares his experience with abandoned children when he was made to
immerse at Bahay at Yaman ni San Martin de Porres in Bustos, Bulacan, as part of his theology studies
in ICTC, and Br. Joiezl recalls the day when he finally professed his vows for the first time as a Carmelite “Seeking the face of God in the midst of the
brother, sharing with us snippets of his very long journey. people,” this is the call for every Carmelite and to
make its response even more concrete, the Philippine
Lastly, Brs. Patrick and Christian shares with us the different activities of which our student friars Province of the Order of Carmelites (O.Carm.) has
participated in, giving us a sketch of the life of a Carmelite simple professed brother. decided to immerse fully with Christ’s anawin starting
with the urban poor by living with them and in their
In all these stories we are made to realize God’s bountiful mercy in our brothers’ journey. midst. Despite having to juggle with their study
schedules, the Elisha Inserted Community of simple
So, this year, we invite all our brothers and sisters in Carmel to heed the call of our dear Santo Padre friars manage to be a reflection of God’s mercy to
and be missionaries of mercy in our own little ways. Let us not show our mercy to others, rather, let us be the residents of Pureza, Sta. Mesa, Manila, reflecting
reflections of God’s mercy to all his children. this issue’s theme, which is “Merciful heart: Alive in
being in solidarity with the people,” or in Filipino,
Happy reading and may you be blessed with our humble experiences in our journey to Carmel’s heights. “Mahabaging puso: Buhay sa pakikipagsalimuha sa
In sweet remembrance. kapwa.” In the cover is Br. Patrick having fun with the
children of Pureza.
2 Brown Prophets Volume 8 Number 2 3

Health in the Lord.
We are happy and grateful to the Lord for indeed he enabled us to experience his manifold
graces and blessings through our encounters in life as Carmelites.
This year, this issue of Brown Prophets will again capture the experiences of our student
friars in “seeking the face of the living God amidst the people” and, conversely, “radiating the
face of the living God in their midst.”
Bountiful experiences of the beauty of life amidst difficulties, challenges, especially the
realities of life that each and every one of us is facing, mere words can’t capture.
The theme of this year’s issue is anchored on Pope Francis’ declaration of the Extraordinary
Jubilee of Mercy that will start on the Solemnity of the Immaculate Concepcion and conclude
on November 20, 2016, the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe.
This calls us towards concrete action in whatever way we can.
We have already heard and participated in a lot of related talks and sessions but what the
Pope challenges us is to put all these into concrete action based on what Jesus is asking of us,
“What you do to the least of your brethren, you do it for me.”
Anchoring also on Carmelite spirituality, “In allegiance to Jesus Christ,” we come to know
Him in our daily endeavor, radiating the mercy and compassion of our living God present
through us in our vocation as Carmelites.
Our life will always be enriched by these experiences as we continue our journey to ascend
to Carmel.
Blessings of the Holy Spirit,
4 Brown Prophets
To my dear Carmelite brothers,
Health in the Lord and blessings of the Holy Spirit!
Salamat sa Diyos, buhay pa tayo! (Thanks be to God, we’re still alive!).
This is the first statement of my parish priest back home whenever he celebrates Mass in our chapel. Let us
joyfully thank God for his wondrous gift of life, for the gift of community and brotherhood.
Life is full of mysteries and surprises. Life is a series of choices, where our every decision defines it for what it is,
for what it will be. This decision can be good or bad, right or wrong, and, regardless of the result, life must still go on.
Each day is a celebration of life. Each encounter brings life. As Carmelites, let us welcome each day with gladness,
full of life despite the many struggles and hardships we face. With gladness, let us heartily praise and thank God for
each one’s presence in our community.
We are aware of the situation of our country and of the world. Corruption, poverty, privatization, human
trafficking, and prostitution are just some of the many problems that countries are dealing with. Likewise, we are
also challenged by the demands of globalization and the rapid deterioration of our environment. Nature is now
running after us. Global warming or Climate change is threatening the planet’s inhabitants. We ask ourselves, what
cause these things to happen? How can I be a solution to the problems?
We must never lose hope. We have to face the world with joyful hearts. There is a solution to every problem. Let
us be part of the solution.
Prior General Fernando Milan Romeral, O.Carm. reminds us that our love and devotion to Our Lady of Mount
Carmel must move us to offer our hands to others when he said:
“At this time of profound economic crisis, of unceasing violence, of flagrant inequalities, I believe that we too, as people
devoted to Our Lady of Mount Carmel, are called to bring freedom to those who suffer the purgatories of our times
- hunger, unemployment, war, terrorism, drugs, depression, loneliness, poor education, exploitation and abuse…. Our
devotion to Mary makes us more sensitive to the needs of the least of our brothers and sisters, to the most forgotten,
and it makes us more human, more compassionate and understanding, more in solidarity with others.”
Indeed, Mary portrays an important role in the salvation history. Her availability and readiness to do the will of
God makes her the mother of all believers. As religious living in the midst of the people we must also be available
to light up the darkest night of the hopeless. We can be a solution to the problems of our country by fostering good
examples like showing concern for others, caring for the environment, and following road signs.
Likewise, the values we learn in the community are also of great help in fighting these injustices. Hence, in our
own little way we can make this world a better place.
We, Carmelites, are marked as a prophetic and contemplative community. Jesus is our role model of contemplation.
He lived in a community of different cultures and made himself visible, active and attentive to the situations of the
people. His words are witnessed by his deeds. Thus, as Carmelites, moved by the grace and mercy of God, we are
challenged not to isolate ourselves from others. We must engage and participate in the struggles of the people. We
are part of this world. Let us positively look at the world as an area for growth and discoveries, as a field for pastoral
work and as an open space full of potentials and opportunities.
Our Carmel community formed us to be responsible, sensitive, and matured individuals. We are taught to value
and respect each one. And as we face the world, let us carry and continuously practice these essential values. Let’s
pay forward the goodness we received from each other. Let these be our contribution to the world.
May Mary our Lady of Mt. Carmel always guide us in all our aspirations and endeavor.
Volume 8 Number 2 5
 TThe Philippine General Hospital (PGH) is a government owned institution administered and I remember one old lady from Tondo,
operated by the University of the Philippines, particularly UP System’s Health Sciences Center. Manila whose name escaped my mind.
She was very alive while lying on her bed
It is the largest government hospital administered by the university and is designated as a national
at that time. She was very happy to see
university hospital. It is located in Ermita, Manila  in the Philippines. The biggest hospital in the
us. After receiving the Holy Communion,
country with 1,500-bed capacity, it is a mixed-use hospital with 1,000 beds for indigent patients and
500 beds for private patients. It offers some of the lowest rates for patients and is generally known she insisted to offer us a song about God.
as the hospital for the indigents. While she was singing the song, I saw how
happy she was and how true her heart
One of our common apostolates is the visitation of the sick and we chose PGH as the place to was every time she opened her mouth
visit every third Sunday of the month. There, we give Holy Communion to patients requesting such to utter the words in her song, “God is
through the Jesuit Fathers who live in the hospital compound as chaplains. so good…God loves me”. I felt that she
never lost faith in God in every state of
I personally visited some of the patients and saw their condition inside the hospital, lying in their
her life, be it smooth or rough times.
respective beds. It was a moment of surprise to see the old facilities of the building being used by
many. The charity ward was too crowded with the throng of patients in beds that are too close to
After that experience I was challenged
each other, as if there were no longer boundaries or privacy. Even the hallways were used. to think about my faith. How strong is
my personal faith in God? This was the
Talking to the patients, I learned that it is quite hard to get inside PGH. The patients uncomplainingly
wait for their turn to get inside the charity ward. On the other hand, there are also well maintained question that came to my mind after our
parts of the building especially in the higher floors for patients who are able to pay for individual conversation. Now I am very thankful
rooms. Here I was able to see the division between the financially poor and those who are not. for the experience because it reminded
me about God and my faith in Him. It
Despite the reality of their condition, they all need healing, someone to talk to, and someone to reminded me of things I needed to do for
lean on. Some questioned God about their health condition while others became more faithful to Him?
God while suffering pains and illnesses.
L Laudato Si’ (Praise Be to You) is the second encyclical letter
of Pope Francis, officially published on June 18, 2015. Its theme,
“On care for our common home,” deeply criticizes the harmful
effects of consumerism and the downside of global development
that highly contribute to environmental degradation and global
warming. The Pope calls on humanity for a unified global action
towards the preservation and protection of our Mother Earth.
The encyclical letter adapts the See-Judge-Act process,
a method of reflection in Liberation Theology that helps
people develop critical judgment about situations, events and
structures. This entire process of reflection encourages us to
stop for a while, reflect on current realities and move to take
action.
In this encyclical, Pope Francis emphasized the significant
relationship between all people and the world. The church now
turns its focus on integrity of creation. With all that is happening
now in the world, the church is helping us to awaken ourselves
and see more clearly the underlying reality in what we deem
to be the age of the world’s global development. To be more
specific, this reflection will take the words of Laudato Si’ into the
Philippine context.
On July 17, 2015, nine coal miners in Semirara Island,
Antique were buried alive under tons of debris when a portion
of Panian pit collapsed. That incident happened at the height
of coal mining in the island. Research shows that coal mining
in Semirara already destroyed 83.92 hectares of land where
31 species of mangrove used to thrive, and more than two
kilometers of the sea’s coral reefs.

Coal from Semirara accounts for 7.5 million of the 7.8

million metric tons produced locally. But the mining activity also
introduced toxic materials to surrounding waters, destroying a
rich fishing ground shared by Antique, Romblon, Mindoro, and
Palawan. With this information, it is very depressing to realize
that we are allowing such destruction in our homeland.

Hospital apostolate. UP-PGH Chaplain Fr. Emerito de la Rama, SJ briefs the student friars on how they could be instruments of What is more depressing with our situation today is that
mercy as they mingle with the patients and administer the Holy Communion during their Sunday apostolate at UP-PGH. a large number of our citizens don’t care as to what is going
6 Brown Prophets Volume 8 Number 2 7
 on in society. Many of us would not hesitate to be came to the point that I found myself being skeptical
indifferent and would rather pay more attention on in doing radio programs. So, I looked for other
pleasurable and easy-going lifestyles. jobs, an occupation that would satisfy my needs,
my involvement with other people, and one that
A greater preoccupation on developing a more would answer my personal concerns.
sophisticated lifestyle blinds us from reflecting on
the question, “Who suffers the most from all these I tried different jobs, but then it hit me when
degrading activities?” In fact, though very obvious, a friend recommended to me to try becoming an
we put behind a curtain the reality that it is our poor educator.
fellow Filipinos who are always the victims of the I applied for a teaching position in all private
catastrophic effects of what the capitalists started. schools in our area, assuring myself that should I be
Due to this very deceiving and destructive system hired this would be the start of a new career.
Memories as a teacher. Br. Miguel with his students from
of capitalism and consumerism, we hardly realize School of St. Anthony.
that we are actually turning our own country into a Fortunately, all of the schools I submitted my
massive grave. IIt was 11 years ago when I had my pre-novitiate
résumé to called me up asking for me to report
and prepare to demo-teach. When I was finally
We are called to direct our lives to the gospel of with the Order. But after 3 years as a temporary hired to teach, my lack in Education units and
creation which helps us understand the spirituality professed friar, I opted to leave religious life to try experience in teaching
behind the whole of creation. As Christians we are other things and to find my purpose in life. became a challenge.
reminded that God created the universe perfectly. Happily, the school
With a heavy-heart from leaving the formation
Everything good comes from Him. He is the source of gave me the chance
and feeling upset on having to face the challenges
everything. He created man and woman in His own to start and teach
of the outside world, I said to myself, “With the help
image and likeness. And because of His great love, that academic year
of our merciful God I can face all the challenges. I
He let them feel, enjoy and share His immense love despite this lack, on
can start anew from here and for once not think of
with the rest of creation. the condition that
religious formation, just to concentrate first on my
needs and other concerns to be addressed.” I should take
In turn, we act in the love that God has shown us some units in
through His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ. It is now After I left religious formation, I went for a Education.
time for us to act and be more involved in rescuing vacation in Albay, Bicol, my father’s province, to ask
our beloved country. Our every act counts, no matter my uncle and cousins (who are priests) about being
how big or small it is as long as we explicitly show to a religious or a diocesan priest – if they encountered
our fellow Filipinos and to the whole world that the difficulties and issues that cannot be solved inside
care for our environment is basically the care for our the formation program.
very own lives.
I reflected on what they told to me and took
time to heal from the feelings of discomfort and to
come into contact with my personal angsts.

I may have always been disregarded in many

aspects, but I believe that I could overcome all my
apprehensions. I told myself, “Stand up and walk.
Keep moving forward. I’ve got two good legs. So
get up and use them. I’m strong enough to make
my own path.”

I looked for a job to sustain my daily needs. I

applied as a technical operator in a Catholic radio
station and after two months I was given the
chance to anchor a radio program. It required me
to produce three programs each week. Being alone
Climate justice advocates. (L-R) Br. Marvin with Bayang Barrios Posterity pose. ICTCians pose with artist Bayang Barrios at the conclusion of the inside the recording room and believing that I could
and Cookie Chua, artist advocates for climate justice. national conference for human rights and climate justice from July 29 to 31, 2015
at the Asilo de San Vicente de Paul in Manila. do much more than anchoring a radio program, I
8 Brown Prophets Volume 8 Number 2 9
 So, while teaching in the morning, in
the evening I found myself going to school.
This routine went on for one semester or
six months. Working and studying at the
same time. The school believed in me, that
I would learn the basics of Education and for
me to follow their instructions, because we
can learn and change.
I knew it. We may be weak, but we
just have to be, else we wouldn’t have any
reason to grow, to become strong. I know
that it may seem futile for me but it’s not
because we are getting stronger with every
step we take. We have to risk and learn in
order to live and that’s what would make us
strong.
After teaching for two years, I had the
chance to be promoted as Student Activity
Coordinator. I almost forgot about the
seminary or to even consider congregations
to accommodate me. I lost contact with the
Order for quite some time.
Even though I’ve been outside
the seminary structure, attending the
celebration of the Eucharist every morning
before going to work has become part of
my system. There were even times when I
would serve during mass. I felt that I was
more steadfast and closer to God when I was
outside the religious formation program.
Aside from resolving my concerns, I the visiting Pontiff.
started to think that I can be a priest and
a prophet in my workplace. Especially with
teaching, I really have to ‘walk-the-talk’, to
be a model to my colleagues and students
cont. to page 22...
A flower in Carmel. Though not yet professed, Br. Miguel corruption and the diversion of resources from the poor,
became part of the Elijah Community of professed brothers and to make a concerted effort to ensure the inclusion of
after spending six months in the Novitiate. every man, woman, and child in the life of the community.
10 Brown Prophets
H“Habemus Papam!” marked the election of the 266 th
Roman Pontiff, Jorge Mario Bergoglio, a Cardinal from Latin
America.
He humbly chose the name Francesco for his papacy,
after a very symbolic person in the church who represented
austerity, care, and radicalism of the Gospel of the man
from Nazareth.
His voice reverberated to all continents in the world,
especially to those who are in despair and in struggle, those
who live in the margins, and those who are in the state of
calamity.
It was January 15 when Pope Francis arrived, filling the
hearts of the Filipino people with overflowing blessings.
Millions of Catholics gathered at the Ninoy Aquino
International Airport to show their gratitude and support to
I cannot explain the spirit that filled the hearts of the
people at that time. The streets were filled as if even a
single needle cannot pass through it. The Pope’s smile and
wave filled the faces of the faithful with unexplained tears
of joy and blessings. As they exclaimed, “We are blessed by
the Pope’s visit! Philippines is greatly blessed!”
The faithful were filled with excitement and awe as they
gathered together to celebrate the arrival of the Pontiff.
It was January 16, 2015, a Friday, when Pope Francis
visited President Benigno Aquino III and his diplomatic
corps at the Malacañan Palace. The Pope was diplomatically
welcomed as he delivered his message of inspiration,
appreciation and challenge to every Filipino to reject
"The Pope's smile and wave filled the faces of the faithful with unexplained tears of joy and blessings."
The Pope celebrated the Holy Eucharist at the Manila Cathedral after his visit to Malacañan Palace.
The message of the Pontiff continued to invigorate the soul of the Filipino people as he pointed out his
appreciation of the Filipino culture in proclaiming the Gospel and vivified faith wherein Christ, Himself, is
alive with His Filipino Church; that the reconciling love of Christ penetrates more fully into the fabric of
Filipino society and radiates into the farthest ends of the earth.
On January 17, 2015 at 10:02 am, Pope Francis delivered his beautiful message to Filipino families. He
emphasized how parents dream of their children in the womb for nine months – a wonderful picture of a
Filipino family dreaming goodness for the future of each and every one in the family.
He pointed out the pressures affecting the family such as the family’s economic situation which forces
each member of the family to migrate and search for employment, and because of dire poverty, others
are caught in materialism and lifestyles that are destructive to family life and the most basic demands of
Christian morality. Finally, he challenged the Filipino family not to hide faith, not to hide Jesus, but to
carry Him into the world and offer the witness to family life.
One of the most captivating messages of the Pontiff was the one which revealed his empathy and
sympathy to victims of the great Yolanda storm which ravaged the country last November 2013. He said
in his homily in Tacloban City, “I’d like to tell you something close to my heart. When I saw from Rome
that catastrophe, I had to be here. And on those very days I decided to come here. I am here to be with
you – a little bit late, but I’m here.”
That was a plainly human yet spiritual aspect of compassion. The heart of Gaudium et Spes resonates
the call for us Christians, especially religious, to always be with the people in their joys, sorrows and
struggles in life. That we are interconnected with each another regardless of race, creed, culture, status,
gender etc. He presented Jesus as one who walked with us, who cried as we cried, and who felt what we
felt—a human Jesus not separated from His people as described in the Church’s Pastoral Constitution.
“The Gospel offers us a serene way forward: using the three languages of the mind, heart and hands
– and to use them in harmony. What you think, you must feel and put into effect. Your information comes
down to your heart and you put it into practice. Harmoniously. What you think, you feel and you do. Feel
what you think and feel what you do. Do what you think and what you feel. The three languages......”
The Pontiff urges the youth to work in harmony for even they have a role to play in this intricate
yet beautiful society. Here, the Pontiff clearly states that we must see what’s real and new in our own
society, to judge according to our own discernment and to act in harmony with each other to build His
reign in our contemporary world.
cont. to page 22...
Volume 8 Number 2 11
 This way of being “in the midst of the people” is a
prophetic sign of a new way of relating with people –
one that is based on friendship and fraternity. It is also a
prophetic statement about justice and peace in society and
among people. It is “a choice to share with ‘the little ones’
in history.
-Ratio Institutionis Vitæ Carmelitanæ, 2000
E Now, as the year of the poor is about to end,
Every day I always hear, “Arriving in Pureza station;
Paparating na sa Pureza station.” This line always complete
my day, it also means that my day’s end is about to end.
Normally, people think that priests and religious were
only contained in the four corners of the convent. But in the
context of the O.Carm. Philippine Province of Blessed Titus
Brandsma, we see things with a very unique point of view.
Part of our formation is living in an “inserted community”
or we can say in the poor community, far from the comforts
of seminary life. Now we live with the urban poor at #285
Amper St., Barangay 631, Pureza, Metro Manila. Here, we can
see the real meaning of “seeking the face of God in the midst
of the people” or we can say the poor, the abandoned and
marginalized. In the Carmelite point of view, the little ones.
Inserted community is a program that helps us see, hear,
smell, feel and understand the realities of life. From these, we
are able to theologize from the experiences of the common
tao, also called theology from the roots.
The program gave us a concrete experience and picture
of what really happens in the life of the people of God in
this modern time. This little one taught us many good things
in this life, like sharing of goods, helping each other as one
community and caring for others. It moves our heart and soul.
The act of goodness shows us the living manifestation of God
and this experience opened a space in our hearts where God,
as the lover, meets with His beloved.
According to the Ratio, relating to the little ones is based
on friendship as a journey going to their core, going to the
most holy place where they can share their hopes and dreams.
Because of this we learn and we journey together as children
of God.
Sharing with their hope, their dream and their anxiety
gives us a wider horizon in life, helping us to be good pastors
that the church need today, a church that is listening and
journeying with them. As a son of our father Elijah, we also
put into flesh the works of a prophet as mouthpiece of God,
telling them how good the Lord is, his mercy and compassion
lasts forever as manifestation of his love for us.
14 Brown Prophets
Letting us share and relearn from the
story of our hopes, dreams, and anxieties with
each other. As a young Carmelite, it was an
opportunity to go back to myself and relearn
and reconstruct my point of view in life using
the experience of the little ones.
it is a calling for all religious men and women
to go out from the comfort of the wall of the
convent and seek the face of God in the midst of
the people. Understanding their suffering from
the book is different from real life situation.
The voice of the poor, challenges us to
immerse and listen to their situation. As the
voice of the one who called us in this life, as
an allegiance of Jesus of Nazareth. It is our
responsibility to listen and to give justice by
voicing their cry in the roads.
Because of this experience, it gave us more
reason to contemplate the realities of the world.
It also gave us a challenge as young Carmelites,
as religious, as common tao on how we can be
a manifestation of God’s presence in the midst
of the little ones.
J
January 15, 2015 marked the day for HUGPONG 2015, the5th
Carmelite Student Gathering held at Titus Brandsma Center, New
Manila, Quezon City.
This event happens every 3 years when all the members of the
Initial Formation Council as well as the formands in the various
level of formation from postulant, novitiate and the temporary
professed student friars of Order of Carmelites-Philippine Province
of Blessed Titus Brandsma gather together to renew the ties of
friendship and brotherhood and to share the rich experiences of
each brother in the different level of formation.
It’s not only about renewing the ties of Carmelite brotherhood
but also for enriching our emotional, physical, spiritual and
intellectual aspects of the self as we indulge ourselves in the
different forums conducted by sharp-witted, gifted and talented
speakers from the Order.
As I allowed myself to engage in this week-long activity, there
were many great learnings and grace I experienced. But the very
thing that is still vivid today is that I learned how to value genuine
and authentic brotherhood. In this fast-paced modern world that
I live in right now, the value of true brotherhood is very hard to
find. Gimmicks, drinking, smoking, socializing with all the high end
gadgets, cars, money, fashion and trend are simply somehow have
become the basis of brotherhood. Recognizing these realities in
the world today, there is a need for you and me to enkindle the
flame that was once gone in our hearts.
Brotherhood is not defined by these commercial and worldly
materials but by the desire for companionship, a desire to see
each other grow and develop, and a hope for each other to
succeed in all aspects of life.
Genuine and authentic brotherhood involves action: doing
something for someone else while expecting nothing in return;
sharing of thoughts and feelings without fear of judgement or
negative criticism. Lastly, genuine and authentic brotherhood is
about taking the journey together through thick and thin, joys
and sorrows, defeat and victory and offering the needed support
and prayer.
Volume 8 Number 2 15
 Trust is essential for genuine brotherhood. You and I need someone whom we can share our lives, thoughts,
feelings and frustrations. I need to be able to share my deepest secrets with someone, without worrying that those
HHundreds of millions of children today live in urban frequently go with them, even in their household
work. Doing household work with them made me
secrets will end up exposed and be the talk of the community or worse, it will end up in the internet. Failing to be slums, many without access to basic services. They understand how important it is for them to follow,
trustworthy with those secrets can destroy the real value of brotherhood in just a split second. Faithfulness and are particularly vulnerable because of the stresses in it is part of their training and process of conversion
loyalty are key to these. Without them, I would feel betrayed, left out and isolated. their living conditions. For older children, and again otherwise for them it is better to play than to work in
especially girls, poverty and economic disadvantage the house. They enjoyed as much as they played and
Accountability is also one factor. Genuine brotherhood encourages one another. You and I need the encouragement makes them more vulnerable to trafficking and
of our other brothers in the community. The value of humility and forgiveness when an offense is committed. so did I.
commercial sexual exploitation, bonded labor or
Brotherhood supports during times and struggle – the value of being dependable. As “two are better than one ...
low-paid labor. I learned to again appreciate the world of children,
For if they fall, the one will lift up the other: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to
help him up” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). In genuine brotherhood, unconditional love develops. I learned how to love my looking back at my experiences as a
brothers no matter what and who they are and I share the best of my part with my brothers. kid. That is how I was able to
understand their capacity
As we are called to live a life of prayer, brotherhood and service, it was such a grace filled experience to be with in terms of learning, how
my fellow brothers to pray and worship God through Jesus Christ, to whom our life is in allegiance to. Joining them they communicate and
in cleaning, taking turns in doing household chores, meals, singing, sharing hugs and handshakes, sharing our faith relate with others, and
journeys, and keeping each other spiritually accountable and reflecting on God’s word, there was joy and happiness
in valuing the things
in me.
they have.
Brotherhood is built on love for our brothers like our precious faith and finding common ground by returning
to the simple teachings of Jesus Christ, always building up the body of Christ and never tearing it down. Genuine They have different
brotherhood is a community formed in unity of spirit and truth in the Lord. characteristics and
The most common family problems of street values because of
If I am to be asked, do you love your brothers in the community? Absolutely! For the bottom line of everything children are death of a parent, strained relationships their different
is love. We are all one in the spirit of brotherhood because… with stepparents, parent separation, alcoholism f a m i l y
of the father, insufficient food, abuse, and family backgrounds,
we are sharers of the same faith;
violence. from where
we are all pilgrims walking the same road;
they came
we are partners together in God’s great work; Most children who leave their homes to live in from. It is
we are contributors and partakers in the common good and salvation; the streets come from slums or low cost housing, true that it
we are partakers of the Divine Nature; both of which are areas of high illiteracy, drug use, is not only
and unemployment.
we are companions of Christ’s suffering;
we are members of God’s Family; This are the issues and challenges that I
we are heirs of the same blessings and will receive the same heavenly inheritance; encountered when I met and talked with the children
Is the brotherhood perfect? No. The community where I am in right now may not be a perfect community and in Bahay at Yaman ni San Martin de Porres (Home and
I am part of it! And so are you! We fall short but my brothers and I are striving to live a life of perfection amidst our Treasure of St . Martin de Porres) in Bustos, Bulacan.
imperfections through the grace of God. We make mistakes. Require forgiveness. Need grace. And beg for mercy.
But there’s a lot to love! At the start of my one month immersion in San
Martin, I asked myself how I could go deep with the
children so as to live in the dynamics of their everyday
life in the institution.

PALUBOG (to submerge), that was how I motivated

myself to start my life with them. I was really excited
knowing that my immersion place handles children,
I was thinking of playing with them and how I could
quickly create relationships with them.

Brotherhood. It is about giving oneself to the other. It is "built on love for our brothers." This year, the Carmelite brothers in initial In their everyday living, from waking up, prayer,
formation met to better understand fraternity and community in Carmel, while helping them grow in fraternal love for each other. eating, falling in line, and in going to school, I

16 Brown Prophets Volume 8 Number 2 17

 with my ears that I was supposed to listen
to them, but so much more with my feelings
and heart. A heart that would continue to
understand them as I listened to their life
stories.
I am very thankful to God that I am blessed
with parents who loved me and gave me a
home for shelter; parents who provided me
with everything that I needed and sent me to
school. Although sometimes I feel sad for their
situation, but then when I see them, how they
relate and hold on to their faith and just enjoy
each other’s company, I feel inspired and glad.
Watching them everyday I said to myself,
“In them I am seeing the presence of the Child
Jesus and his grace to these children.”
“Let the children come to me”(Mt.19:14).
There I see also the product of the
handiwork of God through the people working
for them, their dedication and commitment. It
is a big challenge for me in the future wanting
to have this kind of institution who caters to
the welfare and the right of every child. And as
the song goes, “I believe the children are our
future teach them well and let them lead the
way show them all the beauty they possess
inside…,let the children’s laughter remind as
how we use to be...” It is indeed good to be
childlike sometimes.
Surrounded in love. Br. Vinson is surrounded by children
from Bahay at Yaman ni San Martin de Porres where he
had his pastoral immersion as part of his studies at the
Inter-Congregational Theological Center.
18 Brown Prophets
IIn the afternoon of May 30, 2015, I professed my simple
vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience to the Order of the
Brothers of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Mt. Carmel at Titus
Brandsma Center, New Manila, Quezon City.
That very day marked the beginning of my religious life
as a Carmelite. Since then, deep within my heart lies an
inexplicable joy that no one can take away from me. It is a
joy that fills my life with light and vigor to see things anew
and to venture onward with hope and enthusiasm. I believe
that this indescribable joy deep within my heart comes from
the source of all joy himself who is God the Loving Father.
Besides, He is the one who called me into this life and I only
gave my humble response to this most fortunate calling.
At this stage of my life I now carry a greater responsibility.
I cannot only dwell with my emotions and live a life floating
in the air, but I have to live the reality of this time and opt
to be strong and committed with the vows I just professed.
Indeed, it is now the right time to live out what I have been
preparing for in two years during the periods of postulancy
and novitiate. It is now that I have to express more in my
lifestyle the spirituality of Carmel and the zeal of being a
modern prophet of the contemporary age. Although the
way ahead of me seems to be quite challenging particularly
on the call of being a good Carmelite but I am taking my
every step with care and vigilance while offering my daily
works to the glory and mercy of God. I now realize that it is
indeed difficult to follow the footsteps of Jesus Christ, but I
truly believe that it is not impossible for me to take the road
he has travelled and imitate his ways of righteousness. After
Contract. Br. Joiezl affixes his signature on a document that Support. Br. Joiezl’s family has been behind his back throughout
seals his vow to live a life of chastity, obedience, and poverty. his journey – from his desire to enter secular formation to the
fulfillment of his yearning through religious formation. They
have been a source of strength for the brother.
all, I strive in this lifetime to be in total allegiance to
him.
I am now taking my theological studies at Inter-
Congregational Theological Center in New Manila,
Quezon City, and I just had my first pastoral immersion
with the mentally challenged children and adults
residing in Guanella Home ran by the Servants of
Charity last August to September 2015.
As a newly professed Carmelite and a student
of ICTC, my theological studies and my wonderful
experiences from the pastoral immersion all the
more reminded me of my mission to be the light of
Christ and the bearer of his mercy in this troubled
and struggling world. The call to be one with those
who are weak and who have nothing now rings
loudly in the depth of my soul; and God, through my
ongoing formation, continues to prepare me to be
more ready to face this call.
I am ever grateful to the mercy and love of God
for me and for giving me this privilege to offer my
life for his greater glory. I am overwhelmed with joy
that God showed me the way to a life of discipleship
and service, and, most wonderful of all, for bringing
me into the life of contemplation in prayer, service,
and brotherhood in the Order of Carmelites.
This is just the beginning of a life long journey.
I am still at the shore facing the vastness of the
ocean, but I know that God will be my guiding star
in the course of my pilgrimage especially in times
that the road ahead will be clouded by darkness
of uncertainty and fear. In every step of the way, I
believe that Mary, my mother, will surely be there
as well. She will be the lamp of my path under the
glittering light of the star leading me towards the
star itself.
The people of God continue to strive for justice,
peace, and love to reign in this world. The challenge
for me now, as a newly professed Carmelite, is to
offer my little contributions of justice, peace, and
love everyday as I reflect the image of God in me to
the rest of my brothers and sisters especially those
who continue to seek the face of God in the midst
of their struggles. I hope that in my little ways I am
helping in the building of God’s kingdom into its
completion.
Volume 8 Number 2 19
 New Manila, Quezon City.

Gathering together spiritual questers, this year’s

forum anchored on the theme, Secularization and
Spirituality: Issues, Challenges, and Opportunities in the
The Carmelite Family Day gathers members of the Carmelite Philippine Context, and pooled spirituality leaders like
family from different congregations; bonding them in spirit Bp. Hubert Mylo Vergara, DD, the Bishop of Pasig, who
and body through a solemn yet festive celebration. talked on Secularization and Spirituality among Clergy
CARMELITE FAMILY DAY and Religious, and Fr. Gerard Francisco Timoner III, OP,
prior provincial of the Order of Preachers and a member
The Carmelite family in Metro Manila successfully of the International Theological Commission, who talked
held the annual Carmelite Family Day last July 19, 2015 on the topic, Secularization and Spirituality in Education.
And on May 1, before the delegates left for their at the Mater Carmeli School in Novaliches, Quezon City.
The student friars together with the novices
respective countries, they had e brief tour of Manila The event, which drew together members of contributed their participation with the opening and
starting from the University of Santo Tomas, followed the Carmelite family from within Metro Manila and closing liturgies for the duration of the activity.
by the San Agustin Church and L’Eau Vive in Manila neighboring provinces, started with the celebration of
where the Donum Dei sisters and the delegates interact the Holy Eucharist presided by Fr. Christian Buenafe, This is the 15th year for the Institute of Spirituality in
and shared music and sumptuous lunch together. The O.Carm., prior provincial of the ancient observance Asia to hold this spiritual gathering.
Delegates to the Regional Before the Arch of the Centuries Student Gathering successfully ended last May 2, 2015. Carmelites, while Fr. Danny Lim, OCD, prior of the
Students Gathering. at the Pontifical and Royal discalced Carmelite’s St. John of the Cross theologate, the distribution of the Eucharist to the sick.
University of Sto. Tomas, Manila. The participants came from five countries - Vietnam,
gave the homily.
India, Indonesia, Timor Leste, and Philippines –
ASIA-AUSTRALIA-OCEANIA CARMELITE REGIONAL representing five provinces of the Order. Sr. Rebecca Polinar, CM gave a talk on Carmelite
STUDENT GATHERING
Spirituality zeroing in on the Carmelite prayer as espoused
Carmelite Student Friars from across Asia and by St. Teresa of Avila.
Oceania gathered in Manila last April 27 to May 2, 2015 Performances from the Third Order Carmelites and
for the triennial Regional Students’ Gathering. Donum Dei’s Vietnamese Dance added flavor to this
momentous event. The Elisha Inserted Community in Pureza, Sta. Mesa, Manila aims
Highlighting the event was a series of talks on to give the simple professed brothers an experience of God in the
Carmelite spirituality with focus on consecrated Co-coordinators Br. Joseph Roque, O.Carm. and Br. midst of struggling people in the cities.
community life (April 28 to 30) held at Teresa of Avila Greg Baguio, OCD spearheaded the successful event
The participants of the The walk also drew participation ELISHA INSERTED COMMUNITY RE-OPENED
Building in New Manila, Quezon City. Walk-for-a-Cause. from co-workers and their together with the core group composed of representatives
families, as well as youths of from various Carmelite congregations. This is the 26th After three years in hiatus, the St. Elisha Inserted
Fr. Euginius L. Cañete, MJ presented his “Reflections different Carmelite parishes. year for the inter-Carmelite event celebrating the beauty Community was once again re-opened this formation
on Consecrated Life in the Context of Asia,” while Sr.
WALK-FOR-A-CAUSE of God’s garden, Carmel, and its many beautiful flowers. year, 2015-2016.
Rhean Justin L. Sanchez, Carm.OL. discussed “The
Challenges of Community Building in a Multi-Cultural The Young Carmel Philippine Foundation (YCPF) The concept of the inserted community came about
Dimension in Asia.” spearheaded a Walk-For-A-Cause last June 28, 2015 as a concrete answer of the Order in the establishment
with the aim of raising funds and support in nurturing of the Church of the Poor. It is part of the post-Novitiate
Angela B. Ureta, aO.Carm., a media practitioner Carmelite vocation in the Philippines.
and a member of the Teresa of Avila community of program wherein student friars would live in an identified
the Carmelite Philippine Province, shared on the topic, The activity was attended by Carmelite formands depressed area for a year, in the course of their studies
“Communicative Aspects of Formation in Teresa of Avila’s (novices and student friars), Carmelite co-workers and in Theology.
Way of Perfection.” their respective families, and youths from Sagrada The opening and closing liturgies for the 15th Spirituality Forum
However, due to insufficient number of members,
Familia Parish and San Isidro Labrador Parish. was performed by the student friars and novices of the Order. The
A sports fest was also held to promote camaraderie prayer was done through dances and expressive movements. the community was closed down in 2012.
among the brothers, and was closed with a Cultural The different groups came from different departure
areas, but culminating as a big group at the Quezon STUDENT FRIARS JOIN ISA’S 15TH SPIRITUALITY FORUM Previous areas included Tondo, Manila near the city’s
Night held at the Teresa of Avila grounds, showcasing sanitary landfill; in Sta. Mesa, Manila along the railroad
diverse cultural performances which included Alitaptap City Memorial Circle where the groups converged for The student friars of the Order of Carmelites in of the Philippine National Railways; Bagong Silangan in
performed by Filipino Student Friars and other cultural fellowship and snacks. the Philippines recently joined the three-day annual Quezon City; and Pureza, Manila, where the inserted
presentations from the delegates. The Walk-For-A-Cause is a yearly event. Spirituality Forum held at the Titus Brandsma Center in community is currently located.
20 Brown Prophets Volume 8 Number 2 21

The St. Elisha Inserted Community is composed of
Br. Joseph Roque (Community Coordinator), Br. Nice
Rodriguez (auditor), Br. Patrick Mariano (Spirituality
Committee head), Br. Christian Marave (Apostolate
Committee head), and Br. Mannie Barlis (Community
Committee head). They are joined by two solemn
professed student friars – Br. Marvin Diongzon and Br.
Paul Rey Senturias.
...from page 10
and give myself time to contemplate the blessings
and challenges I receive.
It seemed like everything that happened was
planned ahead, even before I thought of it, and there
were good blueprints on what will happen to me in
the future; a plan that I really had to go through and
can’t even refuse to experience. With that, I felt God
cared for me and made me appreciate His plans for
me. Nothing’s perfect, the world’s not perfect, but
it’s there for us, trying the best it can. That’s what
makes it so beautiful.

At the peak of my career as an educator I

accidentally visited the Order and with so many words
to express my apology, even to show my gratitude
and share my redemptive stories with them. They just
The Minor Orders of Lectorate and Acolytate were given listened and welcomed me once again into the Order.
to the nine simple professed friars of the Order by Prior
Provincial Fr. Christian Buenafe, O.Carm. at a mass in the To be honest, I am still a little surprised myself. It
oratory of St. Teresa of Jesus Community. goes against my beliefs. I even swore to myself that
I would never go back again. But then I considered
and contemplated on God’s compassionate plan for
9 STUDENT FRIARS INSTALLED TO THE MINOR ORDERS
me and what I can do.
The Student Friars of St. Elijah and the St. Elisha
This life comes with many inconveniences, but
Inserted Community were recently installed to the
inconveniences don’t make me miserable. There is
Minor Orders of Lectorate and Acolytate.
no reason for us to pity ourselves. My life was put
During the mass in honor of the Blessed Virgin back together with my strong faith in God. There’s no
Mary last September 12, 2015, nine simple professed such thing as a painless lesson – they just don’t exist.
O.Carm. brothers were installed by Carmelite
Sacrifices are necessary. You can’t gain anything
Philippines Prior Provincial Fr. Christian Buenafe,
without losing something first. Although if you can
O.Carm. at the oratory of Teresa of Avila Community
endure that pain and walk away from it, you’ll find
in New Manila, Quezon City.
that you now have a heart strong enough to overcome
Installed were Br. Joseph Roque, Br. Aniceto any obstacle.
Rodriguez III, Br. Patrick John E. Mariano, Br. Christian
...from page 11
Marave, Br. Mannie Barlis, Br. Clark Canillo, Br. Ritche
Salgado, Br. Vinson Luayon, and Br. Joiezl Piñon.  The overall impact of the Papal visit reminds
all Carmelites to be faithful to the charism of the
Fr. Christian, in his homily, reminded the brothers Order, to the Church and most especially to the
that with the new office are responsibilities that people to whom we pay allegiance to in following
require their dedication, challenging them to meet the footsteps of Jesus—an exemplar of love for
the duties required by the office, such as preparing the deprived, poor, marginalized, outcasts and the
for the reading before mass. unheard voices in the desert, situating ourselves in
the experience of the great prophet Elijah in Mount
The Lectorate ministry is the office of the reading
Carmel in relation to the gentle breeze that’s
of the sacred scriptures while the ministry of
seldom heard in our contemporary society. That in
Acolytate is the office responsible for assisting the
allegiance to Jesus Christ, we will be able to put the
priests and deacons in Eucharistic celebrations and in
Bible in its proper place – the place to be with the
the distribution of the Eucharist to the sick.
poor.
22 Brown Prophets