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MOSUL, Iraq, March 3, 2008—Negotiations ate last Friday they killed three people Iraq’s Chaldean community has made its
is ‘well preserved’
standstill. Monsignor Rahho’s release has been asked abductions! Enough with killing the inno-
But more and more Muslim leaders are but no deadline has been set. cent! Let us learn to live together in our
expressing their solidarity towards the Iraqi police has set up a special task force diversity as our religions teach us. Despite
Christian community. For his part Msgr. to investigate the clergyman’s disappear- its suffering, Iraq’s Christian community
Louis Sako, Chaldean archbishop of ance. Their operations are centred in has for a minute not lost hope and a desire ROME, March 3,
Kirkuk, appealed for an end to “the Iraqi Mosul’s al-Nour neighborhood where the for dialogue to show that Christians and 2008—In the most
people’s tragedy.” kidnapping took place. Muslims can be friends.” discrete manner pos-
Sources in the Mosul diocese confirmed More voices are coming together in an Archbishop Sako told AsiaNews that “in sible, the body of St.
to AsiaNews that there have been no new appeal for the bishop’s release. The Euro- such moments the two communities are Padre Pio was ex-
contacts with the prelate’s abductors. But pean Union joined the Pope, the Bishops’ as one voice calling for Monsignor Faraj’s humed at 12:30 a.m.
“we believe Msgr. Paulos Faraj Rahho is Council of Nineveh and the Chaldean Na- release.” Monday morning by
still alive even though we have no con- tional Council in making an appeal. The In Mosul Sunni leaders have slammed a group of medical
crete evidence to prove it,” the sources EU’s Slovenian presidency has called for the abduction, whilst in Kirkuk a repre- experts, while
said. the prelate’s unconditional release, urging sentative of the al-Sadr’s Shia movement Church representa-
Nothing is known yet about the abduc- Iraqi authorities to do their utmost to has raised a banner that says that “Such tives observed.
tors’ identity. When they seized the prel- solve the case in a positive way. actions are bad for Iraq.” (AsiaNews) Padre Pio was bur-
ied September 27, St. Padre Pio
1968 at the San
Giovanni Rotondo shrine, just The Italian bishop commented
four days after he died. on the state of Padre Pio’s body
Pope repeats appeal for Iraqi prelate’s release “The body is well preserved”
said Bishop Domenico
D’Ambrosio of San Giovanni
by saying, “If Fr. Pio allows me to
say, it is as if he was manicured.”
The Bishop also said that be-
VATICAN CITY, March 2, 2008— “I also elevate my prayer of Najim, apostolic visitor for Mosul,” the cardinal continued, Rotondo-Manfredonia-Vieste, sides the upper skull, which
Benedict XVI is appealing again supplication for the souls of the Chaldean Catholics in Europe, “is not at all tranquil. There is a who observed the removal of the shows some signs of the process
for the release of the Chaldean three young people who were said that he was not “surprised” lot of tension among the people: saint’s remains. of mummification, the rest of his
archbishop of Mosul, Iraq, kid- with him and were killed at the by the news of Archbishop Iraqis fear Iraqis. It is not a con- “From the very beginning (of remains are in surprisingly good
napped Friday. time of the kidnapping,” the Pon- Rahho’s kidnapping: “Indeed, I frontation between Christians the exhumation) you could clearly condition, including his joints –
After leading the midday An- tiff said. “I express, moreover, my can say that in a certain sense I and Muslims. Certainly, Chris- see his beard. The upper part of which are all attached, and his
gelus in St. Peter’s Square today, closeness to the entire Church in expected it.” tians experience a difficult situa- his skull is visible, but his chin is feet.
the Pope repeated his appeal for Iraq and in particular to the “Only a few months ago some tion because we are a minority, perfect and the rest of the body is D’Ambrosio confirmed that
the release of Archbishop Paulos Chaldean Church, that have once men came up to him on the street, but this should not cause us fear.” well preserved. You can clearly neither his feet nor hands showed
Faraj Rahho. The prelate was again been dealt a serious blow, pointing a pistol at his chest,” “For the moment,” the see his knees, his hands, his mit- any trace of the stigmata, since “as
taken captive as he was leaving while I encourage all of the pas- Monsignor Najim said. “[Arch- Chaldean patriarch said, “we tens and his fingernails,” Bishop we know, they disappeared at the
Mosul’s Church of the Holy Spirit tors and faithful to be strong and bishop Rahho] himself told me have no news and no claims of D’Ambrosio recalled. moment of his death.” (CNA)
after participating in the Way of firm in hope. about it on his last visit to Rome.” responsibility from the captors.
the Cross. “May the efforts of those who For his part, Cardinal Delly, in We only have a lot of fear, the
Three men who accompanied control the fate of the Iraqi an interview with L’Osservatore people leave and go elsewhere.
him, including his driver, were
killed. Their funerals were held
Saturday.
people be multiplied so that,
thanks to the commitment and
wisdom of all, this people may
Romano, said that this kidnap-
ping “will not prejudice the good
relations between Christians and
Prayer is our only consolation.”
In January there was a series of
attacks aimed at churches and
Catholics to receive four
The Holy Father affirmed he is
following this “dramatic event”
with “profound sadness.” He
again find peace and security, and
the future to which it has a right
not to be destroyed.”
Muslims.”
“Our friendship exists for cen-
turies and it will continue,” he
convents in Kirkuk, Baghdad and
in Mosul itself, which wounded
four people and seriously dam-
new saints in October
joined with “the call of the patri- added. “Those who kidnap do not aged buildings. VATICAN CITY, March 3, 2008— America to establish a convent to
arch, Cardinal Emmanuel III Previously threatened have any religion of reference,” Father Ragheed Ganni, a priest On Saturday, Benedict XVI de- teach and care for children in Ec-
Delly, and his co-workers, for the but only “a clear message: create of the patriarchate of Babylon, clared that four people will be rec- uador, and later performed heal-
dear prelate¯who is also in very In statements made to the Mis- confusion in the country.” and three subdeacons were killed ognized as saints in a ceremony to ing miracles in Colombia where
poor health—to be released im- sionary International Service “The situation in Iraq, espe- outside Mosul’s Church of the be held on Sunday October 12. The she died at the age of 76.
mediately.” News Agency, Monsignor Philip cially in Baghdad, Kirkuk and Holy Spirit last June 3. (Zenit) blesseds who will be canonized are: The third Blessed is Anna
Gaetano Errico, Maria Bernarda Muttathupandathu born in Kerala,
Butler (nee Verena), Alfonsa of the southern India, in 1910. She was a
Immaculate Conception (nee Anna professed sister of the Congrega-
Muttathupandathu), and Narcisa de tion of Poor Clares of the Third
EDITORIAL
Pastoral Companion
dignity of the children of God in those who are their
victims. Acts of graft and corruption can be death-
dealing and are always oppressive of God’s children. Rural Congress
For the way to life is in keeping the commandment,
among which is “Thou shalt not steal,” and in loving
our neighbor as ourselves (Mt 19:16-19). DURING the general assembly of the Catholic Indigenous People’s Rights’ Act (IPRA), etc., and congresses. The Western Visayas region will
Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines last calls for action. hold its congress on May 20-21 in Jaro, while
Those who act otherwise endanger their eternal month, we reported that Phase One of the Na- The NRC Central Committee and Secretari- Central and Eastern Visayas will have theirs
salvation, and expose themselves “to death, the wages tional Rural Congress is ongoing. During the ats have also issued three guidelines as a frame- on May 21-22 in Cebu. The Mindanao bishops
of sin” (Rm 6:23), even as they deprive others of the first quarter of this year, local-level consulta- work for the conduct of the NRC process. First have agreed to hold their congress on June 18-
opportunity for a more abundant life. Hence, we, tions on the role of Basic Ecclesial Communi- we subscribe to the moral principles enunciated 20 in Cagayan de Oro. Luzon North and Luzon
your bishops who have received from Christ the ties in rural development are being conducted in the Social Teaching of the Church in judging the South regions will still have to determine the
mandate to teach all men to carry out everything that in about 80 dioceses. These are being coordi- situation. Thus, we are mindful of the dignity of dates and venues for their congresses.
the Lord has commanded (Mt 28:20), condemn graft nated by the National Secretariat for Social the rural poor, the common good, protection of Instead of one national congress, the regional
and corruption in our society as a life-destroying Action (NASSA), the Episcopal Commission for the environment, and the demands of social jus- congresses have been agreed upon to enable
plague. Indigenous People (ECID), and the BEC Desk tice in terms of labor and property rights. more active and widespread participation by
of CBCP. Secondly, we abide by the Philippines Consti- language groups, as well as to minimize trans-
-”Thou Shalt Not Steal”, a CBCP Pastoral Letter, 1989 At the same time, another secretariat repre- tution, particularly its social justice provisions. portation costs for delegates. The deliberation
senting the Philippine–Misereor Partnership These enunciate the spirit of social legislation and action planning could also zero in on lo-
(PMP), the Association of Major Religious Su- that enhances the rights of all basic sectors to calized issues. These would then be the sub-
perior, (AMRSP), and the Rural Poor Solidarity their human dignity, reduce social and eco- stantive part of the NRC process.
(RPS) are holding consultations in 14 sub-re- nomic inequalities, and diffuse wealth and po- Phase Three of the NRC process will com-
gions of the country on rural issues. Included litical power. prise the reporting of the five regional con-
God’s Call to Mission in Politics in these consultations are representatives from
the basic rural sectors of small farmers, indig-
Thirdly, we adhere to non-violent and demo-
cratic means in our engagement with govern-
gresses to the general assembly of bishops. This
will take place on July 7-8, after the regular bi-
enous people, small fishermen, etc. as well as ment and the various sectors of society. We annual CBCP meeting. The two-day gathering
ANY serious believer in God cannot allow the state non-government organizations and social ac- condemn the extra-judicial killings of peasant of bishops and an equal number of delegates
of our national politics to persist. And in fact there tion centers. These consultations have been leaders in particular, and we join the call for will be the culminating activity of NRC, as well
is a duty for the Christian Catholic to transform scheduled in the five sub-regions of Mindanao transparency, accountability and good gover- as the commencement of the action plans for
politics by the Gospel. The Church, God’s people, (ZAMBASULI, KIDMACO, DOPIM, nance in the conduct of public affairs. the post-NRC period.
must evangelize politics. God’s call to the Church is CABUSTAM, and DADITAMA); Central The month of April will be set aside for the But even as the NRC process unfolds, small
to preach the integral Gospel, the Gospel with all its Visayas, Samar, Eastern Visayas, Panay- consolidation of the reports coming from the farmer organizations and NGOs, with the help
social dimensions. The Gospel must influence every Romblon, and Negros; Southern Tagalog, diocesan and sub-regional consultations. Re- of several bishops, have already been engaging
phase of life, every stratum of society, and “restore Northern Luzon, Central Luzon, and Bicol. search centers like the Asian Social Institute government agencies in pending rural issues—
all things under Christ” (Eph. 1:10). As foreseen, there is more diversity of views (ASI) and the School of Labor and Industrial notably, the need to extend the agrarian reform
being presented in these subregional consulta- Relations (SOLAIR) of the University of the program beyond June 2008, and the resolution
Strangely, there are not a few people, even within tions. To enable all views to be adequately ex- Philippines have signified their readiness to of urgent land issues involving farmer-benefi-
the Church, who do not believe that to renew politics pressed, the NRC Central Committee is ask- help synthesize the subregional proceedings. ciaries in Sumilao, Canlubang, etc.
is part of the Church’s mission. When Church ing each organization to submit written state- Phase Two of the NRC process will take place A second bishops-legislators’ caucus is be-
officials praise government policies, government ments during or after the consultations. This will in island–wide or regional congresses, involv- ing organized on February 27, and a summit
officials welcome such support warmly and are only also facilitate the consolidation of these vari- ing representatives from the BECs, peasant sec- with government agencies on rural poverty
too happy. But when Church officials criticize and ous perspectives—e.g., on the causes of rural tors, NGOs and social action centers. In their issues is being planned in April. The see-judge-
denounce government policies, the same people poverty, the implementation of the Compre- regional meetings last January, the bishops ex- act approach may actually be taking place al-
immediately cry out: “Violation of the separation of hensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) the pressed their readiness to help organize these ready in a spiraling and reinforcing direction.
Church and State! Church meddling in politics! Let
the Church stick to religion!”
Ambassador Henrietta T. de Villa
They cite the words of Christ: “Render to Caesar the
Amoris Officium—My
Faith and Fire
things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that
are God’s” (Mt. 22:21). They say that the Church
should have nothing to do with politics because
Christ said to Pilate: “My kingdom is not of this
experience
earth!” (Jn. 18:36). They therefore conclude that
the Church should not say anything about politics and I WISH to share with you my intervention, as It also becomes what Deus Caritas Est refers to as sustainability of total long-lasting engagement
politicians. Consultor of the Pontifical Council Cor Unum, the Church’s organized practice of love… an becomes difficult; working with and for the poor
during its XXVII Plenary Assembly held at the ordered service to the community. This lay needs continuous funding; lack of a dedicated
How wrongly they interpret Scriptures and the Vatican last February 28 to March 1, 2008: movement has participated in 17 national and curriculum specifically focused on formation of
doctrine of separation of Church and State! Quite I have to express the exuberance of my heart local elections to date and gathers, for every elec- the heart that provides spaces for intimacy with
unjustly they selectively level this charge of at being here—being part of the COR UNUM toral exercise, from 350,000 to 500,000 volun- the Lord and familiarity with the story of Jesus,
interference in politics against the Catholic Church, family. Since October of last year I have been teers, serving from 2 to 4 months before, during as well as a grounding on the spirituality for
even while some other sects may be loudly intervening thanking God for this singular grace. And I thank and after elections in 3000 parishes nationwide, ministry; a growing environment that distances
in the political process especially during elections. God too for our Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI pro bono, with Christ as the only prize of their charitable activities from God, treating these as
and His Eminence Cardinal Paul Cordes. I ask engagement, and moved by the hope that social purely human interventions or social out-
-CBCP Pastoral Exhortation on Philippine Politics, 1997 the Lord to always be with them, and with all of transformation will occasion for our people full- reaches; economic condition of volunteers them-
you, all of us in this amoris officium that is COR ness of life. selves which put to test, often severely, their
UNUM. Direct organized engagement in the life of poor motivation and commitment; the low priority
With regard to my own experience of engage- squatter families which began in my season as the Church herself gives to ongoing formation
ISSN 1908-2940 ment in favor of the needy, may I cite two servant-leader of the Council of the Philippines of volunteers, even paid workers of charitable
apostolates: in 1986. We initiated relationship with some 30 programs/projects/agencies; too many agen-
CBCP Monitor
Protagonist of Tr u t h , Promoter of Peace
The Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible
Voting (PPCRV)—a nationwide lay movement
using the infrastructure of the Church (the Par-
ish Pastoral Council) which was organized im-
mediately after the Second Plenary Council of
poor homeless families in a squatter colony in
the heart of the city of Manila. This relationship,
mutually nurtured through the years, enabled
an actual, on the spot immersion on what com-
passion means: entering into the suffering and
cies/organizations/associations that work for
poverty alleviation or for justice and peace
causes, whose activities and programs are often
uncoordinated, with coverage usually concen-
trated in highly urbanized areas, and as such
Pedro C. Quitorio the Philippines convoked by our Episcopal Con- pain of the other, offering presence as the sym- compete against one another for the needed lo-
Editor-in-Chief ference in 1991, and considered as its first fruit. bol of solidarity which must translate into con- gistics; hostile government agencies that view
In that Council, it was stated that “in the Philip- crete action that helps remove the pain and suf- work for the poor as fronts for left-leaning ide-
Pinky Barrientos, FSP Kris P. Bayos pines given the perception that politics has be- fering of the other. This organized service of ologies; unfavorable peace and order situation,
Associate Editor Feature Editor come an obstacle to integral human develop- love is as St. Augustine says: Sit hoc officium pascere including unstable political climate
ment, the urgent necessity is for the lay faithful dominicum gregem (Let this be the task of love to Some essential similarities and differences
Melo M. Acuña Rosalynn Garcia to participate more actively in political affairs.” feed the flock of the Lord)—a task of love that between employed and volunteer collaborators:
Managing Editor Marketing Supervisor PPCRV has a two-fold mission: a) voters’ educa- transforms both the recipient and the doer. In- for the employed, service is done in freedom
Dennis B. Dayao tion focused on the formation of conscience; b) volvement in this direct work for the poor is but done for pay; for the volunteer, service is
Ernani M. Ramos
On-Line Editor Circulation Manager
responsible voting focused on good governance purely on a volunteer basis. From experience done freely, but not for pay; for the employed,
aimed at getting persons of singular integrity the pay we receive surpasses any monetary re- service is an employment; for the volunteer, ser-
Roy Q. Lagarde Marcelita Dominguez and competence elected to public office, as well muneration: encountering Christ—O, how of- vice is a ministry; for the employed, service is a
News Editor Comptroller as monitoring the conduct of elections so that ten this has happened—in the poor we serve, job; for the volunteer, service is a vocation.
these be experienced as clean, honest, accurate, and in some palpable moments of joy and hope, Being involved in charitable activities or any
The CBCP Monitor is published fortnightly by the CBCP meaningful and peaceful. pain and anguish when Jesus comes alive in our form of organized charity can be full of fearful
Communications Development Foundation, Inc., with
Its overarching truth is: love for God and love midst… and we go back again and again to these crises and conflicts. But it can also gift us with
Layout by Denz Dayao
transgender surgery after try. Its average fertility rate has dropped from
5.8 children per woman in the 1970s to 1.8
children per woman today, below the re-
abuses to ensure compliance with the policy.
Reggie Littlejohn, an American attorney
who advises the Brussels-based non-govern-
lation control programs. According to
Cybercast News Service, U.S. law prohibits
funding for any agency that “supports or par-
not allow him to perform operations. pal Conferences and the vicari-
breast-enhancement surgery on The CBS 5 News station char- ate of Rome’s office for pastoral
a transsexual. Hastings claimed acterized the statement as a care in universities.
that upon further inquiry a sur- “veiled apology.” It said, The theme was “Europe and
gical coordinator at the hospi- “transgender Charlene the Americas Together to Build a
tal said to him, “It’s not God’s Hastings has claimed moral vic- Civilization of Love” and some
will” and “God made you a tory against Catholics.” 40,000 university students partici-
man.” According to the California pated.
A 2006 memo sent by Seton Catholic Daily, Hasting’s attor- After a prayer vigil held for the
Medical Center to physicians ney, Chris Dolan, said that a youth, the Holy Father arrived occupy in the culture and art of Gospel may renew the civiliza- XXIII founded on the four col-
said, “transgender procedures lawsuit seeking monetary dam- to pray the rosary. He then ex- European and American tion of these two continents and umns of love, truth, freedom and
or procedures that are part of ages would proceed. tended greetings in various lan- peoples.” of humanity entire,” the Holy justice.”
the transgendering process may “Like any good religious ex- guages, both to the young people “Unfortunately,” he added, Father stated. “The great Euro- He added: “This, dear friends,
not be performed at Seton, as perience, first you need enlight- present in Paul VI Hall and to “so-called western civilization pean and American cities are be- is the duty I consign to you to-
Seton is a Catholic Hospital.” enment and then you need those following events from the has also partly betrayed its Gos- coming more and more cosmo- day: Be disciples of and witnesses
Hastings filed suit against the atonement,” said Dolan. “And European and American cities. pel inspiration. What is needed, politan, but they often lack this to the Gospel, because the Gos-
hospital in San Francisco Supe- what we have here perhaps is a “Christianity,” he said, “is a then, is an honest and sincere re- lifeblood, which is capable of pel is the good seed of the King-
rior Court in December. The suit glimpse of enlightenment. Has profound and powerful link be- flection, an examination of con- ensuring that differences do not dom of God, in other words the
alleged that Seton violated state it changed their heart? I don’t tween the so-called old continent science. It is necessary to discern become the cause of division and civilization of love! Be builders
law, which allows religiously- think so. Will it change their and what has been called the between what serves to build the conflict but of mutual enrich- of peace and of unity!”
based hospitals to refuse to per- practice?” ‘New World.’” ‘civilization of love’ according to ment.” The Holy Father concluded his
form abortions but makes no ex- Hastings will not undergo the design that God revealed in The Pope said the civilization remarks by identifying one “sign
emption for denying elective surgery at Seton, saying he Cultural foundations Jesus Christ, and what runs of love would be characterized of this Catholic unity” in the ini-
surgery for transgender opera- would not be comfortable be- counter to it.” by “a respectful and peaceful co- tiative of giving each of the stu-
tions. cause he would feel the hospi- Benedict XVI affirmed “the “God calls you to cooperate, existence that finds joy in its dif- dents present a CD copy of his
On February 27 the San Fran- tal would be “doing it under fundamental position that Holy alongside your peers all over the ferences in the name of a shared encyclical “Spe Salvi” in five lan-
cisco television station CBS 5 duress.” (CNA) Scripture and Christian liturgy world, so that the lifeblood of the vision which Blessed Pope John guages. (Zenit).
CBCP Monitor
A8 People, Facts & Places Vol. 12 No. 5
March 3 - 16, 2008
³
country, Fr. Benigno Beltran, center has been teaching young
SVD, parish priest, told people to gain computer literacy.
CBCPNews. The program has attracted
This computer program helps hundreds of young people for
hundreds of women irrespective of whom computer is life, Fr.
creed or social strata, the priest said. Beltran said.
One of the benefits that women Some time ago, the parish do-
have gained out of it is they learn nated about 100 old PCs to Mus-
Officials of the Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association of the Philippines (KCFAPI) with Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Edward Joseph Adams during a courtesy call at the how to do accounting and audit- lim and Christian students in
Nunciature in Paco, Manila, March 3, 2008. ing with help of computers, and Mindanao. (CBCPNews)
Markings
CELEBRATED. Fr. CELEBRATED. Fr. CELEBRATED. Diocese of Kabankalan, 20th anniversary
L u d g e r Wim Wijtten, SVD, of creation as a diocese; February 11, 2008. Bishop
Feldkaemper, SVD, 49 th anniversary of Vicente M. Navarra, DD was appointed the first bishop of
45th anniversary sacerdotal ordination, Kabankalan. In his fourteen years as bishop of the dio-
of priestly ordina- February 1, 2008. cese, he introduced the formation of Diocesan synod;
tion, February 2, Another bible scholar built the Bishop’s house; the seminary (Little Way College
2008. A well- who worked for Seminary); a
known Bible many years in North- strong organiza-
scholar who ern Luzon, Fr. Wijtten tion of lay leaders
worked for many took over as director who are commit- affiliation, Bishop Buzon took interest in updating
years in the Philip- of the Biblical Center ted to the Diocesan schools. He invited the Christian Brothers in Australia
pines, Fr. in Vigan after Fr. program of Basic to help in the updating and formation of the Catholic
F e l d k a e m p e r, Feldkaemper left. He Ecclesial Commu- schools in the diocese. He initiated a Pastoral Assem-
founded the John became subregional nities. In 2003, bly and Pastoral Planning among the clergy to re-di-
Paul I Biblical Cen- coordinator of the Bishop Patricio rect efforts for a more comprehensive approach to
ter in 1979 when CBF-SEA, the first Buzon, SDB be- ongoing formation of the clergy. His pastoral visita-
he was assigned Southeast Asia sub- came the 2nd tions among the parishes help him know the real prob-
as Bible Professor at the Immaculate Conception regional coordinator bishop of lem of the people and the real situation of the diocese.
School of Theology in Vigan City. He started the Basic of the Catholic Bibli- Kabankalan when
Bible Seminar which is now well known all over the cal Federation. From the Philippines he was assigned in Bishop Navarra ORDAINED. Rev. Moses Romy Namalata and Rev.
world. He became the executive secretary of the Nemi, Rome as director of the Dei Verbum, the Interna- was appointed 5th Patrick Leody Cendeño of the Servants of the Risen
Catholic Biblical Federation for many years. He cur- tional Bible Institute on Biblical Pastoral Ministry of the bishop of Bacolod. Christ Monastic Community, March 1, 2008, at St.
rently teaches Scriptures in one of the SVD seminar- SVD. He is currently residing in Holland in one of the SVD With his religious Therese of the Child Jesus Parish, Ramos, Tarlac; by
ies in Germany. seminaries there. background and Most Rev. Florentino Cinense, DD, bishop of Tarlac.
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 5
March 3 - 16, 2008
B1
B2 Updates B4 Commissions B5 Statements B6 Reflections B7 Social Concerns
Rubrics in the celebration of the Power to unite with Elvira Seeking the truth, restoring ‘Untie him and let him go’ Teaching fishers how to fish
Holy Eucharist integrity through microfinance
Pastoral Concerns
B3 Diocese B8 Entertainment
Diocese of Kabankalan Buhay Parokya
7
ORDAINED bishop in July 22, 2004, Most Rev. Emmanuel C.
Trance was appointed second bishop of Catarman in March 11,
2005. In this issue of CBCP Monitor, Bishop Trance talks about the
various concerns of the diocese: environmental degradation in the
province; the effects of consumerist lifestyle on families; the thrust
of family life apostolate to combat threats on family life; the BEC
programs and participation of the laity in the life of the Church;
and the ongoing formation of the clergy and the laity.
QUESTIONS
By Fr. Jaime B. Achacoso, of the particular rite or liturgical cer- of protection by the Law of the Church. thority. The General Instruction of the Ro-
J.C.D. emony. If even in public functions—from As an illustration, a private citizen can- The Code of Canon Law, reflecting the man Missal (G.I.R.M.) and the Roman
a simple flag-raising ceremony to the not on his own initiative decide to deco- mind of Vatican Council II, has estab- Missal
most elaborate presidential inaugura- rate the street and sidewalk in front of lished the competent authority in the On top of dozens of important docu-
tion—there is normally a Master of Cer- his house with fancy tiles and elaborate following terms: ments regarding the Holy Eucharist that
A few years ago, a Statement of the 20th Na- emonies to make sure the written script grillwork. Since the street and sidewalk Can. 838 — §1. The supervision of the have come out after Vatican Council II,
tional Assembly of Diocesan Directors of Lit- and proper protocol are followed, it are public property, they are subject to sacred liturgy depends solely on the au- the most important single document re-
urgy (Sept 12-16, 2005) was picked up by the stands to reason that in the acts of public the sole jurisdiction of lawfully consti- thority of the Church which resides in garding the celebration of the Holy Mass
local mass media and stirred up a controversy. worship of God (which is what the lit- tuted authority (which is mandated to the Apostolic See and, in accord with the is the Institutio Generalis Missalis
The Statement—entitled Rubrics in the Cel- urgy is) there be a proportionate con- care for the common good of the com- law, the diocesan bishop. Romani—or General Instruction of the
ebration of the Eucharist—called on the cern that the script is followed. munity). Only the City Government (or — §2. It is for the Apostolic See to or- Roman Missal (G.I.R.M.)—, by the Sa-
faithful to “carefully study and observe the National Government if the road is a der the sacred liturgy of the universal cred Congregation for Divine Worship
7 Questions / B1
And crosses on the 14 stations Others would have already subdivided into small clusters for
Bibliarasal groups, cooperatives, and feeding programs for malnour-
ished children, and other communal activities.
(Father Edward McNamara, professor of liturgy at the Regina Apostolorum university, answers the following questions:)
PCP II has highlighted the active participation of the laity in the life
of the Church. How does the diocese concretize this?
Q: The Masses for the weekdays the rules of the General Calen- Q: Are wooden crosses on top of de- of 14 crosses. These may be Again after PCP II and our 1st Diocesan Pastoral Assembly in 1996,
(including Saturdays) of Lent and dar. The calendar forbids most vo- pictions/paintings of each Station of wooden, stone, metal or some the role of the laity became more visible. In the parishes this was
Advent are assigned Masses. Yet tive Masses during these seasons. the Cross required? These have been other suitable material. The seen in the rise of many lay organizations and movements. They are
there are Masses in the Collec- The General Instruction of the removed from our church.¯P.C., images are an optional, albeit called upon in Pastoral Assemblies, in Pastoral Councils and in Pas-
tion of Masses of the Blessed Vir- Roman Missal, No. 376, does say, Laplace, Louisiana very useful extra. toral Commissions and lately in the 2nd Diocesan Pastoral Assembly.
gin Mary for the Lenten season however: “On obligatory memo- The crosses may be rela- We organized the Diocesan Pastoral Council were lay representa-
and for the Advent season. When rials, on the weekdays of Advent A: The principal document relat- tively small compared to the tives and religious are included; we recognize and encourage the lay
is it permitted to use the liturgies up to and including December ing to the external form of the Via images or representations, but charisms and involvement in the Church. Their participation is es-
from this Collection of Masses 16, of the Christmas Season from Crucis, or Way of the Cross, is the they should be visible. They sential to the communitarian direction of the Church today.
during Lent and Advent?¯J.M., January 2, and of the Easter Sea- Enchiridion of Indulgences, No. 63. may also be located at any suit- The continuing formation for lay people should be embedded in
Washington, D.C. son after the Octave of Easter, The Church grants a plenary able place near the images— the liturgy, in catechesis, and in devotions in the parishes and BEC
Masses for Various Needs, indulgence to a member of the above, below, beside or even level. Nonetheless an organized ongoing formation for community
A: As No. 21 of the Introduc- Masses for Various Circum- faithful who practices the pious incorporated within the frame. leadership, pastoral knowledge and skills are also needed in the
tion to the Collection of stances, and Votive Masses are exercise of the Way of the Cross. Possibly the local parish Diocesan level and in the programs of our respective Diocesan pasto-
Masses of the Blessed Virgin as such forbidden. If, however, In order to obtain this indulgence church could be encouraged to ral commissions. We have to address this concern the soonest pos-
Mary indicates, the collection required by some real need or the exercise must be fulfilled be- restore the crosses to its Way of sible time and to look for resources to bring it about.
is destined above all for use pastoral advantage, according to fore legitimately erected stations. the Cross. It could also be a won-
in Marian shrines. the judgment of the rector of the For the legitimate erection of derful teaching moment to ex- Does the diocese have a continuing formation program for the clergy?
These shrines frequently church or the priest celebrant the Via Crucis, 14 crosses are plain the Church’s doctrine on When I was appointed as Coadjutor Bishop of Catarman in May 14,
have permission from the himself, a Mass corresponding to needed, to which may be added indulgences as well as foment 2004, I would not forget what the then Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop
Holy See to celebrate Masses such a need or advantage may images or sculptures that repre- the practice of the Via Crucis. Franco told me: “Please give attention to the ongoing formation of
of Our Lady on days that be used in a celebration with a sent the station. As No. 133 of the Directory the clergy.” When I became Bishop of Catarman in March 11, 2005, I
would otherwise not be per- congregation.” According to the most com- of Popular Piety says: have announced it as my priority. In fact, I appointed myself as head
mitted according to the Thus, should such an authentic mon custom, the pious exercise “The Via Crucis is a journey of the Commission on the clergy instead of appointing a Vicar. For
norms of the General Roman need for a Marian celebration consists of 14 pious readings to made in the Holy Spirit, that the ongoing formation, the clergy are grouped according to age level
Calendar, such as during Ad- arise during the above-men- which are added some vocal divine fire which burned in the and ordination batch: young clergy, first five years of ordination;
vent and Lent. tioned times, the pastor could prayers. However, in order to heart of Jesus (cf. Lk 12, 49-50) junior clergy, six to 16 years; middle clergy, 17 to 24 years; senior
This concession is usually choose one of the corresponding fulfill the pious exercise all that and brought him to Calvary. clergy, 25 years to retirement; and retired clergy. We have our bi-
granted for all days except Masses from either the Roman is required is a meditation on the This is a journey well es- monthly gathering for presbyteral pastoral assembly and recollec-
those indicated in Nos. 1-6 of Missal or the collection of Masses Lord’s passion and death with- teemed by the Church since it tion, a quarterly gathering for ongoing formation groupings. We
the table of liturgical days of the Blessed Virgin Mary. out having to make a particular has retained a living memory have a five-day annual retreat, annual ongoing formation seminar,
found in most editions of the There are also exceptions consideration of each station. of the words and gestures of renewal seminars for jubilarians, and sabbatical every six years per
Roman Missal. which allow two of these formu- It is necessary to move from the final earthly days of her request. All of these are aimed to help the life and pastoral ministry
This faculty is usually re- las to be used outside of the as- one station to the next. But if the Spouse and Lord. of each priest to become one mind and one heart with Christ, the
served to priests on pilgrimage signed season during ordinary stations are done in a large group “In the Via Crucis, various main goal of every ongoing formation.
or for celebrations for groups time. No. 28 of the Introduction where moving is difficult, it is strands of Christian piety coa- I am pleased with my relationship with my clergy. I see them as
of pilgrims and with the re- says that the Christmas formula sufficient for at least the guide to lesce: the idea of life being a my immediate and direct partners and coworkers in the pursuit of
quirement to generally use the “Holy Mary of Nazareth (no 8)” move from station to station. journey or pilgrimage; as a the pastoral welfare of all the faithful in the Diocese and in the con-
seasonal readings and not those may be used if a group of faithful The faithful who are legiti- passage from earthly exile to tinuing work of evangelization. I am connected to them in the sacra-
of the Marian Lectionary (Intro- desires to commemorate Mary’s mately impeded from making our true home in Heaven; the mental bond which should be stronger than blood relations, the sac-
duction, No. 31). exemplary conduct at Nazareth. the stations may gain the same deep desire to be conformed rament of ordination. They have welcomed me as their Bishop even
For this reason the Masses Likewise, the Lenten formula indulgence by dedicating about to the Passion of Christ; the though I came from a different region. I want to be father, brother
assigned to Advent, Christ- “Mary Virgin, Mother of Recon- 15 minutes to meditating and demands of following Christ, and friend to them in the real sense. I am convinced that our mutual
mas, Lent and Easter are usu- ciliation (no 14)” may be used spiritual reading on the Passion. which imply that his disciples relationship will give a strong witness to our pastoral service in
ally not permitted in settings when Mass is celebrated in the Therefore, to answer the spe- must follow behind the Mas- unifying our ecclesial communities and building up of the Church.
such as parishes, which do not context of seeking reconciliation cific question at hand: A legiti- ter, daily carrying their own We can solve our problems together as brothers in the Church and
enjoy any exemption from and harmony. mate Way of the Cross consists crosses (cf. Lk 9, 23).” (Zenit) for the greater welfare of our ecclesial communities. Any challenge
ahead we can face as one if we keep this mutual bond in the Lord.
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 5
March 3 - 16, 2008 Diocese B3
ON BACKGROUND: St. Francis Xavier Cathedral of Kabankalan. BELOW: Most Rev. Patricio A. Buzon, SDB, DD
IMPORTANT FACTS
Bishop ……………………………. 1
Priests:
Diocesan ………………………… 47
Religious:
Foreign ………………….……… 4
Filipino ………………...………... 1
Loaned ………………….………… 1
Deacon ……………………....…….. 4
Women Religious:
Filipino ………………………….… 21
Foreign ……………….…………… 3
Seminarians:
In Theology ……………………….. 14
Pre-College ………………………. 13
Philosophy .………………………. 27
Diocesan Divisions:
Vicariates ………………………..... 5
Parishes …………….……………. 23
Entrusted to Diocesan Clergy .... 23
Chaplaincies ……………………..…. 6
Entrusted to Diocesan Clergy …..... 5
Entrusted to Religious Clergy ……. 1
Educational Centers:
Colleges
Diocesan ………………...……….. 1
Directed by Religious …….……... 2
High Schools
Directed by Diocesan Clergy ....… 15
Directed by Religious ………….… 4
Elementary Schools
Diocesan ………………………….. 5
Directed by Religious …..………… 2
Kindergartens
Diocesan ………………….……… 28
Directed by Religious .………….. 1
Population …………………… 769,049
The Diocese of
Kabankalan
Compiled by Fr. Ludovico To-ong, Jr.
THE entire Province of Negros Occiden- initiated by Bishop Navarra and is pres- Actively spearheaded by the Bishop Historical highlights in the
evangelization of
tal once belonged to the Diocese of ently supervised by the Anawim Foun- with the members of the Clergy both
Bacolod, which was created in 1933, sepa- dation. The synchronized reshuffling of diocesan and religious, the diocese at the
rating Negros from the Jurisdiction of the diocesan clergy was undertaken moment is in the implementation pe-
Kabankalan Diocese
Jaro. In 1987 Bacolod Diocese was di- shortly before Bishop Navarra was riod of the plans and programs mandated
vided into three ecclesiastical jurisdic- transferred to Bacolod Diocese in July by DPA II. The administrative body of
tions, San Carlos in the north, Bacolod of 2001. But before that, he had realized the diocese includes a Board of Consult-
in the center and Kabankalan in the the construction of the Little Way Col- ers and the Presbyteral Council. On the
south. lege Seminary, now on its seventh year pastoral section, there are 12 commis-
The Diocese of Kabankalan comprises of operation. sions with their respective directors who (Adapted from the compilation of Dennis Madrigal in
a total land area of 3,924 square kilome- For almost two years, the diocese was assist the bishop in the implementation Handurawan: Visita Iglesia Negros Y Recoletos: 2006)
ters, geographically mountainous but entrusted to the care of the Diocesan of plans and programs. Serving the pa-
mostly accessible. Most of the faithful Administrator, Msgr. Rogelio B. Cruz, rishioners are 36 diocesan priests and 1
have an average or below average in- V.G. until Fr. Patricio A. Buzon, then religious, while the others are serving 1566: The Christianization of the Island of Negros began with the foundation
come level and their main sources of Provincial of the Salesians of Don Bosco, full time in the seminary, schools, com- of the missions of Binalbagan (1575-78) Tanjay (1580-83) and Ilog (1584-86)
income are employment, farming and Philippine South Province was ap- missions, and other autonomous orga- by the Augustinian Missionaries. Unfortunately, they had to abandon these
fishing. It is grouped into 5 vicariate pointed bishop and subsequently or- nizations of the diocese. They are con- missions for lack of priests.
districts which encompass 3 cities and 8 dained by His Eminence Ricardo Cardi- tinually strengthening and empowering 1622: At the request of Bishop Pedro de Arce of Cebu, the Recollects came to
municipalities of the southern part of nal Vidal in February 19, 2003. He was the 702 Basic Ecclesial Communities evangelize Negros. The spiritual administration of Binalbagan including
Negros Occidental in the Philippines. The installed as second bishop of (BECs) and ecclesial organizations all Kabankalan was ceded to the Recollects.
titular patron is St. Francis Xavier whose Kabankalan in March 19, 2003. over of the diocese. 1638: Recollect Missionaries left Negros in exchange for Romblon. The con-
feast is celebrated on December 3. The new bishop dutifully studied and vent of Binalbagan was entrusted to the Jesuits who came earlier in 1630.
The religious had been the pioneers contemplated the decrees of the First Vision 1769: After the expulsion of the Jesuits from the Philippines in 1767, The
in the task of evangelization in Synod and the resolutions of its subse- We, the local Church of the Diocese of Dominican missionaries came to continue the spiritual administration of
Kabankalan. The Recollects, the Jesuits quent pastoral assembly. Consequently, Kabankalan, envision ourselves to be a Negros with Fr. Manuel Diez assigned in Kabankalan (but died in 1774)
and the Mill Hill Fathers had contrib- the bishop intensely proposed to con- Community of the Lord’s Disciples, and another one in Guihulngan (now a barrio of Cauayan). They left the
uted to the spread of the Catholic Faith duct a diocesan-wide Strategic Planning sharing His own three-fold mission, as Island in 1774 and never returned.
thereabout. In 1950, the then Bishop of in view of the diocese’s pastoral endeav- Priest, Prophet and King, working to- 1848 June 20: Gov. Gen. Narciso Claveria approved the Request of Bishop
Bacolod, Casimiro Lladoc, invited the ors. gether as agents of integral renewal, Romualdo Jimeno of Cebu, “entrusting the spiritual administration of
Columbans to take over the area that As an initial step, the clergy convened nourished by the Word and the Eucha- Negros to the Recollects.”
now constitutes Kabankalan Diocese. with selected BEC leaders in May 2004 rist so that we may all achieve the full- 1848 June 26: The Recollects willingly accepted the administration of Negros
The Filipino clergy started to integrate for two days to look closely into the eco- ness of life in Christ, Who is “The Way, “with sustained joy”. The parishes of Amlan, Siaton, Kabankalan and
with the Columbans in the 1970’s with nomic, political, socio-cultural and the Truth and the Life.” (John 14:6). Himamaylan were the first four parishes in Negros turned over to the
the advent of the Spirituality of the Ba- ecclesial situation of the local Church Recollects.
sic Ecclesial Communities or the that gradually led to revisiting and re- Mission 1898 November 5: The outbreak of the Philippine Revolution began in Cen-
Kristyanong Katilingban (KK) as it is lo- vising the vision-mission statement of Invoking the guidance of the Holy tral and Northwestern Negros. After negotiations and the agreement of
cally known. The local Church suffered the diocese. Spirit, with Mother Mary as our model, surrender were discussed by revolutionary leaders and the Spanish gov-
tremendous harassment and persecution It was then agreed during the two-day we, the Priests, the Religious and the La- ernment, the Spanish Alcalde Mayor and his military troops in Bacolod
during the Martial Law era. After the convention to conduct a parish based ity, in unity and solidarity with our surrendered to the rebels led by Gen. Aniceto Lacson and Gen. Juan Araneta.
building in the compound of what is now assessment using SWOT (Strength-Weak- Bishop, commit ourselves: Thirty-five Recollects were arrested and jailed in Puerto San Juan (the origi-
the Kabankalan Cathedral was gutted by nesses-Opportunities and Threats) · To strive for personal holiness through nal name of the provincial jail).
a fire in 1986, Kabankalan was erected Analysis Tool to really assess the the daily contemplation of the Word 1932 July 15: Pope Pius XI issued a Papal Bull creating the Diocese of Bacolod,
as a diocese in March 30, 1987. Bishop strengths and weaknesses of the diocese and the reception of the sacraments separating Negros from the Diocese of Jaro. The Parish of St. Sebastian in
Vicente M. Navarra, D.D., was installed in terms of human, communitarian and and through the imitation of the Lord Bacolod became the Episcopal seat of the diocese.
as first bishop of Kabankalan in Febru- spiritual aspects. The said event was re- in His simplicity of life and preferen- 1933 May 16: The Diocese of Bacolod was formally established with the par-
ary 11, 1988. ligiously conducted and was eagerly at- tial love for the poor; ishes of the whole Negros Island and Siquijor as its territorial jurisdiction.
During his term that spanned 13 years, tended by more than 2,100 BEC leaders · To live and work together in commun- 1933 October 24: Bishop Casimiro M. Lladoc was installed as the first Bishop
Bishop Navarra facilitated the holding that lasted for 5 months in the later part ion and to promote the Basic Ecclesial of the Diocese of Bacolod. He served the diocese for 18 years (1933-51). He
of the First Diocesan Synod of of 2004. The Second Diocesan Pastoral Communities, known in the diocese died on September 21, 1951 at the age of 58.
Kabankalan and its subsequent Pasto- Assembly (DPA II) was called by the as Kristyanong Katilingban, as a new 1950 May 11: At the request of the Apostolic Delegate to the Philippines,
ral Assembly for the renewal and Bishop in February 2005 to finally way of being Church; Bishop Casimiro Lladoc of Bacolod formally informed the Recollect Supe-
strengthening of the local Church. The present the collated result of the dioc- · To work for integral faith formation that rior in San Carlos, Fr. Pedro Zunzarren, of his intention to transfer the
modified Tithing System was adopted, esan-wide SWOT assessment and to leads to social transformation through spiritual administration of the southern Negros to the Columban mission-
in accordance with the spirit of the Sec- make corresponding actions needed to the active participation of the laity and aries.
ond Plenary Council of the Philippines resolve any ambiguities. Through this the empowerment of the poor; 1950 June 16: The Recollects ceded the parishes of Isabela, Kabankalan and La
(PCP II). The Diocesan Pastoral Coun- very important undertaking, the diocese · To promote the apostolate of the family Castellana to the Irish Columban priests.
cil and the Diocesan Pastoral Team has finally identified its top 7 priority as an evangelized and evangelizing 1951 May 29: Bishop Manuel Yap was installed as the second Bishop of the
were formed for lay empowerment and objectives to be addressed in 3 to 6 years agent for a just and pro-life society; Diocese of Bacolod. He died on October 16, 1966.
animation of the BECs, which remain time and towards the attainment of the · To journey with the young towards full 1960 March 14-18: Bishop Manuel Yap convoked the First Bacolod Diocesan
as the pastoral thrust of the Diocese. Its updated vision-mission of the diocese. maturity in Christ through an Synod which was attended by selected priests of the Diocese.
preferential option for the less fortu- This was also the time when organiza- inculturated Catholic Education; 1967 February 24: Bishop Antonio Y. Fortich became the third Bishop of the
nate was typified by the establishment tional set-up, structures and systems · To foster and sustain the renewal of the Historical / B5
of the deaf-mute apostolate which was were formally established. clergy.
CBCP Monitor
B4 Commissions Vol. 12 No. 5
March 3 - 16, 2008
‘Power to Unite’ with Elvira edge and skills. Some did not show en-
By Paul J. Marquez, SSP
thusiasm, maybe because they also
lacked encouragement and support from
THE National Catholic Family Bible the priests. The bishops, however, were
Quiz is on its third year. At the helm of very supportive,” Elvira relates.
this biennial event is Elvira Yap Go, a On the 3rd National Catholic Family
petite-looking Papal Awardee Pro Bible Quiz, the questions will revolve
Ecclesiae Pontifice. She recalls how her around family, mission and life. An “On-
‘pet project’ started from something the-Spot Painting Contest” will be held
small. “I was very surprised when a simultaneously with the contest.
priest gave me a children’s Bible with After the first National Catholic Fam-
colorful illustrations. A friend explained ily Bible Quiz, Elvira’s team saw the
to me that maybe the priest wanted me need for a song to capture the wonder-
to donate bibles to poor children since ful experience. She wrote the lyrics of
he was organizing a family Bible quiz. the song “Power to Unite” and Charo
So I gave him several Bibles.” Unite composed the music. “It speaks of
Elvira has gone beyond donating cop- my observation on the current situation
ies of the Bible. After attending an Inter- both in our country and in the world.
national Catholic Family Bible Quiz in There is confusion, despair and heavy
Rome, the bible quiz in the small parish sense of helplessness. But not everything
kept flashing on her mind. “Maybe we is hopeless. We also have a way out of
can duplicate this and make it nationwide.” our problems. And we found this in
She broached the idea to several bish- God’s Word.”
ops whom she knew personally and they Elvira and her team simply felt the
encouraged her. Everything then fell need to celebrate God’s power into their
into place, like God was blessing Elvira’s lives. Little did they realize that the song
‘pet project’. People from all walks of was meant for something bigger when
life came to volunteer their help and re- the song was made for MTV. “We orga-
sources—old friends, ordinary people, nized a dance contest that would inter-
professionals, priests, nuns and seminar- pret the song. The winners were featured
ians. In 2004, a secretariat was formed in this MTV showcasing Filipino folk Elvira Go (2nd from left) holds the Gold World Medal won for MTV Power to Unite. Also in photo are Director Louie Ignacio and Bishop Antonieto
and they moved to an office. Invitations dances. We sought the help of noted di- Cabajog.
for families to join the contest were sent rector Louie Ignacio, arranger Roy del
out to dioceses nationwide and families Valle and National Artist for Dance 11 children. She’s in the middle—the As a young student, Elvira also en- Elvira claims she used to be painfully
started joining in. Ramon Obusan. The MTV turned out to “shock absorber” in the family. But al- rolled studied French, Russian and Span- shy and was not the type of person to
All beginnings are difficult, Elvira be Mr. Obusan’s last legacy because he though her features are 100% Chinese, ish language. “I stayed in Madrid for al- emcee a show, much less on national
admits, but looking back at her experi- passed away a few weeks later,” Elvira Elvira’s heart can also be 100% Filipina. most a year. I also experienced how to television. She does not even follow a
ence during the contest’s first hour, she says. “I did not grow to be like my siblings. dress up like a real lady and to be courted script every time she is in front of the
cannot but marvel and thank God for The “Power to Unite” MTV sent They kept only to fellow Chinese, but I by foreigners. Sometimes people mis- cameras. “For me it is more important
helping her team. “Year 2004 was the Elvira to New York recently to receive a was a ‘rebel’ in the sense that I mingled took me for an airline crew, an ambas- to listen to the person I am interview-
International Eucharistic Year and the very prestigious award. “The New York with Filipinos. We live here, I study here, sador or a royalty. I made friends also ing. Maybe God trained me by listen-
Marian Year. We groped in the dark. We Festivals International Television so why can I not be with Filipinos? I am with families and everywhere I went— ing. I was in a Ferragamo shop in the
didn’t know exactly where to begin. Broadcasting Awards gave us the Gold also a Filipino, and I find Filipinos warm, Poland, Hungary, Czechoslovakia. I was US, there was this salesclerk who made
Along the way, we had many insights World Medal not only for our excellent kind, gentle and loving.” She studied in surprised that people naturally opened small talk with me. Later on, she was
and discoveries from all the people in- work. It was also their way of acknowl- a Chinese school then took up Bachelor up to me. It was there that I realized how already confiding her personal prob-
volved, including ourselves, like how edging the deeper longing for peace, of Science in UST because she thought of difficult it is to live in a country without lems. I told her, you have to decide on
we could work with grace under pres- harmony, justice, unity and love. In our becoming a doctor, until she realized she freedom,” Elvira points out. your own, but always your priority must
sure.” Elvira’s team is now registered humble way, our MTV has offered hope did not want to kill herself with memo- Elvira has also transformed into a TV be your family. Then she asked me,
with the Securities and Exchange Com- to the world,” Elvira ruminates. rization. “I want more to analyze than personality as host of the inspirational ‘Ma’m, are you a prophet?’ “
mission and is known as Power to Unite She considers such an experience truly to memorize. I am not an intellectual. I show “Power to Unite with Elvira”. The Elvira cringes at the suggestion that
Catholic Family Bible Group, Incorpo- overwhelming considering that it was am just a simple person, very simple program is aired on NBN Channel 4 she is a prophet. “I am only God’s
rated. their first venture into MTV. person.” every Tuesday at 7:00-7:30 pm. Louie humble instrument, and I want to remain
The second Bible quiz was in 2006. “We keep getting several recogni- As Elvira scrutinizes the twists and Ignacio directed 13 episodes in 2007 fea- a very humble person. For me, success
Aside from having more participants, tions, like two awards from CMMA. One turns in her life, she cannot but be thank- turing archbishops and bishops with is not because you’re intelligent or
she considers the second quiz better or- is for Best Music Video, the other one is ful to God. “I have a full life and I am Elvira. “Imagine, when we guested you’re wealthy. Everywhere I go, I see
ganized owing to the experiences gained Best Radio Ad Public Service. Then we very thankful for God’s blessings. Our Archbishop Capalla he was on his way the rich getting richer, the poor getting
during the 1st Bible quiz and to the steady received also the Anvil Award for Ex- family was not wealthy, all of us had to to Manila but because of our taping, he poorer. There is hopelessness and help-
show of support from friends and strang- cellence, plus others from many award work, even today. Even if I don’t have a detoured to Cebu. Another time, Arch- lessness. What we offer is hope, that all
ers alike. The team received a first-hand bodies. These serve as our encourage- husband and a family, I took care of my bishop Lagdameo went all the way to is not yet lost.” Elvira shares.
experience on how individuals and fami- ment, but the real push comes from the nephew who is now 19 years old. I guess Pakil, Laguna for our 10-minute inter- Many things in Elvira’s life have
lies hungered for the Word of God. The Holy Spirit.” In the midst of all the acco- the reason why the Church gave me the view! I was telling myself, if all these changed and her hands are now filled
experience also opened their eyes to re- lades and acclaim her group is getting, Papal Award in 2003 was the way I treated bishops were making sacrifices, why with more things than she can handle,
alities happening on the parish level. “At Elvira insists that she is a very simple our workers in Columbia International should I complain?” Elvira opines. For but Elvira is not complaining. Delighted
the beginning we thought we had very person. “Maybe I am just an instrument,” Food Products, Inc. It is my vision that all the next episodes, the show will focus with how God make things possible for
good catechists but during the quiz we she humbly admits. their children would finish school and on education and will bring televiewers her, she exclaims, “He has shown me his
saw how many of them lacked knowl- Elvira is born to a Chinese family of have a chance to improve in life.” to different parochial schools. love in many unexpected ways!”
OFW Store
Teaching migrant families to Fr. Luis Supan
Question Box
invest money wisely
Questions on politics
What are the moral respon- objectives to be pursued. These any society that truly wishes
sibilities that come with po- do not depend exclusively on to be human (justice, honesty,
litical power? special interests, but in a much truthfulness, etc.), and which
“Those with political re- greater part on the function of in no way can simply be ex-
sponsibilities must not for- synthesis and mediation that pected of others or delegated
get or underestimate the serve the common good, one of to institutions. It is the task of
moral dimension of political the essential and indispensable everyone, and in a special way
representation, which con- goals of political authority.”(Ibid. of those who hold various
sists in the commitment to no. 409). forms of political, judicial or
share fully in the destiny of professional responsibility
the people and to seek solu- What harm does corruption of po- with regard to others, to be the
tions to social problems. In litical power cause to the citizens? watchful conscience of society
this perspective, responsible “Among the deformities of the and the first to bear witness to
authority also means author- democratic system, political cor- civil social conditions that are
ity exercised with those vir- ruption is one of the most seri- worthy of human beings.”
tues that make it possible to ous because it betrays at one and (Ibid. no. 134).
put power into practice as the same time both moral prin-
By Dyz Pumarada went leadership training, formation seminars, fi- service (patience, modesty, ciples and the norms of social jus- Why is it important that the
nancial management, and the importance of sav- moderation, charity, efforts tice. It compromises the correct “soul” of society be Christian
ings and budgeting. In a short span of time, most of to share), an authority exer- functioning of the State, having a charity?
“PAGSUSUMIKAPAN naming palaguin ang the members were able to pool their financial con- cised by persons who are negative influence on the rela- “The profound meaning of
negosyong ito na ipinagkatiwala nyo sa amin (We will tribution reaching the amount of thirty thousand able to accept the common tionship between those who gov- civil and political life does not
do our best to make this business succeed),” said pesos as part of their initial capitalization of eighty good, and not prestige or the ern and the governed. It causes a arise immediately from the list
Nimfa Estareja, Parish Migration Desk (PMD) co- thousand pesos. ECMI provided the capital aug- gaining of personal advan- growing distrust with respect to of personal rights and duties.
ordinator of San Lorenzo Ruiz Parish (SLRP) in mentation as one of the program components of tages, as the true goal of their public institutions, bringing Life in society takes on all its
Navotas. Comprehensive Reintegration Program (CORP). work.” (Compendium of the about a progressive disaffection significance when it is based
Such was the happy and excited remark of Nimfa The “OFW Store” project is a product of CORP Social Doctrine of the Church, in the citizens with regard to poli- on civil friendship and frater-
Estareja, when the project “OFW Store” was estab- for OFWs and their families left behind. Libreria Editrice Vaticana, tics and its representatives, with nity (St. Thomas Aquinas). The
lished at San Lorenzo Parish in December 2, 2007. Composed of 25 migrant families at San Lorenzo 2004, no. 410). a resulting weakening of institu- sphere of rights, in fact, is that
The project was conceptualized to encourage mi- Parish who organized themselves together, the tions. Corruption radically dis- of safeguarded interests, exter-
grant families to invest their money in income gen- PMD is in line with the program of the Kalookan How should elected public of- torts the role of representative nal respect, the protection of
erating ventures. Diocesan Desk of the Pastoral Care of Migrants and ficials carry out their mandate? institutions, because they become material goods and their dis-
Three months after the store was opened selling their Families (KADMI), headed by Rev. Fr. Ruben “In their specific areas an arena for political bartering tribution according to estab-
only three basic products of rice, cooking oil, and Maybuena. (drafting laws, governing, between clients’ requests and lished rules. The sphere of
sugar, it now carries a variety of items including The program promotes the holistic approach of setting up systems of checks governmental services. In this friendship, on the other hand,
candles, bottled mineral water, soft drinks, candies, returning the perspective of migrants from the pre- and balances), elected offi- way, political choices favor the is that of selflessness, detach-
biscuits, etc employment stage to the time they are about to cials must strive to seek and narrow objectives of those who ment from material goods,
More products were added to respond to the return home. One of its components is the enter- attain that which will con- possess the means to influence giving freely, and inner accep-
growing needs of consumers, especially during prise development where migrant families are en- tribute to making civil life these choices and are an obstacle tance of the needs of others.
weekends when churchgoers are ample. In fact, the couraged to use the remittances productively ei- proceed well in its overall to bringing about the common Civil friendship understood in
group has to install a rotational system in operat- ther saving for future investment or pooling of fi- course. Those who govern good of all citizens.” (Ibid. no. this way is the most genuine
ing the store among the members since they had nancial resources for group livelihood or enter- have the obligation to an- 411). actualization of the principle
decided to operate from 6:00 AM to 8:00PM. prise. swer to those governed, but of fraternity, which is insepa-
The group is currently working on the system- It is being implemented in collaboration with this does not in the least im- How can every citizen contribute rable from that of freedom
atization of their business policies especially on the diocesan migration ministry, and the parish ply that representatives are to the common good of society? and equality. In large part, this
the aspects of financial management, patronage migration desk/ministry. merely passive agents of the “Authentic social changes are principle has not been put into
refund and dividends to member’s share capital. The “OFW Store” project was launched with a electors. The control exer- effective and lasting only to the practice in the concrete circum-
The Episcopal Commission on Migrants and Itin- Eucharistic celebration officiated by Fr. Allan cised by the citizens does not extent that they are based on reso- stances of modern political
erant People (ECMI) accompanied the group in Lopez, OP. At the launching PMD members for- in fact exclude the freedom lute changes in personal conduct society, above all because of
pursuing the project that started from the seminar mally pledged their commitment to the group and that elected officials must …It is obviously the task of the influence of individualis-
on entrepreneurship. After which, series of meet- to the project. The store, located inside the parish enjoy in order to fulfill their people to develop those moral tic and collectivistic ideolo-
ings have taken place to brainstorm ideas, until the compound, was provided by the parish priest for mandate with respect to the attitudes that are fundamental for gies.” (Ibid. no. 390).
writing of their business plan. The group under- the group’s use.
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 5
March 3 - 16, 2008 Statements B5
A call for
emancipation
from the bondage
of corruption
“For authority was given you by the Lord, your kingship is from the
Most High…” (Wisdom 7:3)
restoring integrity
and people power revolts. We seem to be endlessly rolling the
rock of Sisyphus up and down the hill of our destiny. But by the
grace of God, we have survived.
And so we ask: Why are we corrupt? Why do we have this
debilitating and enslaving sin? And this question we can only
ask ourselves. Is it just our leaders? How about us? Do we put
the blame on others only?
(A CBCP Pastoral Statement) Are we indeed sovereign and responsible citizens? There is
among us a cry of dismay over corruption. And there is a grow-
ing clamor for both immediate and long term actions. But be-
fore we leap, let us pause to reflect, to discern, to do penance,
BELOVED People of God: determined and relentless, and no matter who is involved; stroyed. We believe that such and pray for renewal done on a national level during this time
Greetings in the peace of the that the way to truth and integ- 5. Appeal to our senators and communal action will perpetu- of lent. Let us resolve to emerge from this period, discernment
Lord! rity must be untrammeled, espe- the ombudsman to use their dis- ate at the grassroots level the renewed at Easter time.
Today in the midst of restless- cially at the present time when tinct and different powers of in- spirit of People Power so bril- We respectfully request President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo
ness and confusion, we come to questions about the moral ascen- quiry into alleged corruption liantly demonstrated to the who is conscience bound as a symbol of our sovereignty, to
you as pastors, for that is our pre- dancy of the present government cases not for their own interests world at EDSA I. It is People pronounce herself on the allegations hurled against her admin-
cise role. We do not come as poli- are being raised. but for the common good; Power with a difference. From istration and her very family. The allegations are very serious
ticians whose vocation it is to For this reason, we strongly: 6. Call on media to be a posi- the grassroots will come out a and even point to her as being the core of all the anomalies
order society towards the com- 1. Condemn the continuing tive resource of seeking the truth culture of truth and integrity we happening in her government. We ask her, devout Catholic as
mon good. Our message contrib- culture of corruption from the top and combating corruption by so deeply seek and build. We she is, to level with us her people, to take us into her confidence
utes to the flourishing of a de- to the bottom of our social and objective reporting without bias instruct our CBCP Commissions in the spirit of lent, with God as her witness—but spare us the
mocracy which must not be built political ladder; and partiality, selective and ten- to take active role including legal/technical jargons of politicians. We ask her to share her
only on political formulae. 2. Urge the President and all dentious reporting of facts; networking for this purpose. innermost sentiments and reflections with the people. What
We face today a crisis of truth the branches of government to For the long term we reiter- May the Lord bless us in this has she to say about why our country has become so corrupt?
and the pervading cancer of cor- take the lead in combating cor- ate our call for “circles of dis- sacred undertaking to build a Let the blind eyes of justice prevail. If she’s still worth being
ruption. We must seek the truth ruption wherever it is found; cernment” at the grassroots new kind of Philippines and may our president, then let it be. But if she finds herself wanting,
and we must restore integrity. 3. Recommend the abolition of level, in our parishes, Basic our Blessed Mother be our com- then in all humility, let her resign as an act of penance, and pave
These are moral values needing EO 464 so that those who might Ecclesial Communities, recog- panion and guide in this journey the way for national self-renewal eventually to evolve into a
spiritual and moral insights. have knowledge of any corrup- nized lay organizations and to truth and integrity. renewed nation embarked on high moral grounds and not just
Therefore, we address this pas- tion in branches of government movements, religious institu- For and on behalf of the Catho- of power and self aggrandizement alone.
toral statement to everyone par- may be free to testify before the tions, schools, seminaries and lic Bishops’ Conference of the We pray that in this season of lent, we can reflect more on the
ticularly you our beloved people appropriate investigating bodies; universities. It is through inter- Philippines: causes of sin, do penance, and collectively renew our life as a
and in a special way to our po- 4. Ask the President to allow nal conversion into the matu- nation by eradicating corruption around us in our personal life
litical rulers and officials. her subordinates to reveal any rity of Christ through commu- + ANGEL N. LAGDAMEO, D.D. and in the life of the community.
We are convinced that the corrupt acts, particularly about nal and prayerful discernment Archbishop of Jaro
search for truth in the midst of the ZTE-NBN deal, without be- and action that the roots of cor- President, CBCP +ANTONIO J. LEDESMA, S.J.
charges and allegations must be ing obstructed in their testimony ruption are discovered and de- February 26, 2008 Archbishop of Cagayan de Oro
Historical / B3
‘Untie him and let him go’ By Paul Marquez, SSP clearer is that Martha simply pro- today. “Take away the stone,” he
claims her faith in Jesus’ extraor- commands us.
dinary power. We can be like God can at times ask us to do
IT is very interesting to follow Martha who puts faith in the difficult things not according to
the story of Jesus raising Lazarus power of Jesus, but our idea of our liking. “Lazarus, come out!”
(5th Sunday of Lent, 9 March 2008 – Jn. 11:1-45) back to life. This can very well be God’s power always falls short With these powerful words, Jesus
our own story—our personal sto- to what God can actually do for is able to make Lazarus rise on
ries and our story as a nation. us. God can always do something his feet. The good news is that
At the onset, when Lazarus was more than we can imagine. Jesus’ word is indeed powerful,
only ill and not yet dead, Jesus Naturally, Martha’s deepest and hearing his word can lead us
received word from Lazarus’ sis- longing was for Lazarus to be to the beginning of something
ters regarding his illness. Rather healed of his illness and not to much bigger than ourselves.
than rush towards Bethany die. Jesus, however, always gives Lazarus is finally restored to his
(Lazarus’ place), Jesus stayed put us something much greater than family and his community only
for two more days where he was we can possibly think of or imag- after his relatives took away his
at that time. When he finally got ine. Lazarus is not only brought burial cloths. Earlier he could
to Bethany, Lazarus was in the back to life; Martha herself re- hardly move since he was still
tomb for four days. ceives new life as Jesus person- bound in burial cloth. God can
If we translate the gospel to ally guides her to spiritual en- always give us a fresh start.
our own experience, we can pos- lightenment. Resurrection, Such image reminds us of our-
sibly see ourselves (whether as Martha learns eventually, is not selves, how despite having al-
individuals or as a nation) as limited to one’s final day on ready heard Jesus’ teachings and
very ill, if not, in a crisis situa- earth. She learns how resurrec- commands, a part of our being
tion. We wish change to happen, tion can in fact be a daily experi- still cry for redemption from hu-
and how we wish the change ence. Jesus tells her: “I am the res- man weakness and sin. We can
would come soon. We have our urrection and the life; whoever continue to wallow in selfishness
timetable and at times we can be believes in me, even if he dies, or despair, or receive the power
very impatient with ourselves, will live, and everyone who lives of resurrection that Jesus brings
our neighbors and possibly even and believes in me will never to us. Most Filipinos nowadays
with our God. How many times die. Do you believe this?” live in a daily grind of suffering
we want God to sing according Despite her initial profession and insecurity. They look at life
to our tune or dance in our of faith in the resurrection, grimly and without hope. To
rhythms! Today’s gospel assures Martha still entertains misgiv- some people, the recent mass ac-
us, though, that God alone has ings when Jesus commanded that tions do not make any sense be-
the perfect timing. He cannot be the stone in Lazarus’ tomb be cause they look at all politicians
rushed nor be delayed. God’s taken away. She protested and as hopeless and corrupt, and that
powerful intervention comes at starts to talk about the corpse full any change of leaders would not
the nick of time, even if at times of stench and decay after the four improve their lot. When a sinner
Illustration by Bladimer Usi we might have lost all hope, or days. We can be like Martha when starts to believe in his worst self
when, humanly speaking, we we keep harping about the past and believes that he or she is be-
don’t see light at the other end and complain of everything rot- yond redemption and God’s care,
of the tunnel. Despite contrary ten about us. We can be like the tomb will forever be shut.
appearances, God is still in Martha when our little learning Our task as children of the Res-
charge, and he always cares for about our faith turns into a dan- urrection is to find way by which
us. gerous thing, especially if we take we can help one another remove
“Lord, if you had been here, my pride of what we know but fail the stone from our tombs, untie
brother would not have died,” to put them into action. It is al- one another so we can be set free
Martha tells Jesus. It is very diffi- ways much easier to put the in truly loving God and our
cult to determine if Martha was blame on the past and on others neighbors. We can do this by lis-
hurting when she said those rather than obey God and do the tening keenly to the voice of our
words to Jesus. What is much difficult task he is asking from us Shepherd: “Lazarus, come out!”
Behold: WOMAN
THIS is the kind of wisdom every be- With this definition of wisdom, it can mate saving truth and love, and shares
liever and follower of Christ should be said that it’s hardly seen around, since these things with us up to now, by dy- WE can never fully understand man and woman and their relationship
have. It’s not enough to have the wis- it is manifest that reference to God is ing on the cross. to each other outside the divine design. Any consideration outside of
dom of this world, no matter how prac- scarcely done in the things we do. We We have to understand this supernatu- that will be an aberration, a departure from the original plan.
tical that may be, nor the wisdom of the think, reason out, speak, act and behave ral truth with the grace of God, other- For it is a part of the Divine plan for the human race that there be a
flesh, no matter how mind-blowing, often by ourselves, without God. wise we succumb to what St. Paul once harmonious integration of what is masculine and what is feminine.
much less the wisdom of words, no mat- But it can reside deep in our hearts, said about the crucified Christ: “Man and woman, he created them”, the Scriptures say. By this natural
ter how clever. not visible to our senses and our worldly “To the Jews indeed a stumblingblock, and differentiation, the unique nature of a being is what determines its op-
The wisdom of the cross is first a gift ways. As the Book of Wisdom says: “In to the Gentiles foolishness. But to them that eration, which in turn determines its means of perfection.
of the Holy Spirit to us before it becomes each generation wisdom passes into holy are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the Woman’s physiological and psychological nature orders her to
a virtue in us. Since it’s a gift, we have to souls, she makes them friends of God and power of God and the wisdom of God.” (1 nurturance. Herself being created out of love, she becomes a giver of
pray for it constantly. Since it’s a gift that prophets.” (7, 27) Cor 1, 23-24) love. Thus, woman’s dignity is closely connected with the love which
needs to be a virtue, we have to culti- Saints and holy men and women have It’s this wisdom that provides us with she receives by the very reason of her femininity, and the love which
vate and develop it also. it, except that they are not fond of show- the proper furnace to forge our love for she gives in return. This is Divine love coming full circle, igniting that
The wisdom of the cross is the most ing it off. It is perceived only by those God and others, the acid test to probe “sincere gift of self”, her natural response to Him who loved first. This
perfect gift, embodying all the other who have the spirit in the manner spo- the depth and range of our grasp of the is the “feminine genius”, the same feminine soul whom Adam saw as he
spiritual gifts, since it completes char- ken of by St. Paul: truth in love. It’s the abiding conviction awakened from his deep sleep.
ity by infusing light and love into our “We have received not the spirit of this that everything gets resolved in the If she refuses (for she has free will) to be a vessel of love, there will be
soul. world, but the Spirit that is of God, that we cross. disorder in the run of things. Her feminine gifts wasted, life becomes
With it we are able to discern God may know the things that are given us by The wisdom of the cross goes much difficult, or if there is life, it becomes a caricature of itself.
and divine things in everything that we God. Which things also we speak, not in the further than what our intelligence and And so it is that woman was made differently as a complement to the
see and do. It gives us the appetite to learned words of human wisdom, but in the will can penetrate. It gives life and vital- man, as the man was made differently as a complement to the woman.
relate everything to God, linking us to doctrine of the Spirit, comparing spiritual ity to our different human forms and Herein lies their unity in the divine plan. Sadly, this differentiation has
God through the things of this world. things with spiritual. structures, our cultural and personal been misunderstood.
It goes beyond understanding and “The sensual man perceives not these ways. The view is held that if such differences occur, these are “culturally
knowledge which enable us to know things…for it is foolishness to him, and he As the late Pope John Paul II once said: created roles made by men and imposed on women.” Thus was born the
divine and natural things in themselves cannot understand, because it is spiritually “The wisdom of the Cross, therefore, idea that the division of labor between man and woman in the family
and in their mutual relations, but with- examined.” (1 Cor 2, 12-14) breaks free of all cultural limitations was the first “class struggle”; that “family is “the first oppressive soci-
out relating them to God, their ultimate In cultivating and developing wisdom which seek to contain it and insists upon ety.” The rhetoric continues—that “if the family is the cause of all evil,
cause. as a virtue in us, we need to struggle openness to the universality of the truth then the family is what had to be eliminated; and since the differences
These gifts and virtues do not auto- against things like laziness, disorder, which it bears.” (Fides et ratio, 23) between men and women are the cause of evil in the family, then soci-
matically lead us to love, since they fall unhealthy attachments, pride and all Let’s learn this wisdom of the cross by ety has to make men and women the same. Of course, they recognize that
short of bringing us to God who is love, forms of sin. In fact, everything can be a conforming our thoughts and desires, there are certain biological differences, but their choice is to as far as
as St. John said so succinctly. It’s wis- frontline in this struggle. our whole life, to Christ crucified, study- possible make these differences irrelevant—[these being] merely so-
dom that does that. Wisdom makes us Thus, this wisdom has to be the wis- ing, praying, meditating on his words, cially created gender roles.” (Dale O’Leary, The Gender Agenda, 1999).
into contemplative souls, seeing and lov- dom of the cross, which is the wisdom and slowly and steadily assimilating his
ing God in everything. of Christ, since Christ showed the ulti- example into our life! Mother Teresa of Calcutta did say in Cairo, “Whether woman or man,
all God’s gifts are good, but they are not all the same.” Which is saying
that while some things are within the realm of choice, there are also
Bo Sanchez things that are not a matter of choice. Such as one’s real nature. One’s
DNA, after all, cannot lie. Man and woman are equal yes, but certainly
different.
find it whole
Not that the man is incapable of these. It was given to the woman at
creation—in plenitude. That is true empowerment!
“It is therefore necessary,” the encyclical Mulieris Dignitatem makes it
clear, “that the man be fully aware that in his shared parenthood, he owes
I NOW have six children. preach in different parts of the world, I cannot silence a special debt to the woman. No program of ‘equal rights’ between women and
One day, I had zero. The next day, I have six. the persistent ache within me. It throbs like a hidden men is valid unless it takes this fact fully into account.”
No, I don’t have six wives that gave birth on the same day. wound. This is the reason why, in the spiritual realm of parenthood to which
Last June 1996, I took in six orphans in my little bamboo hut in It just takes a sight of a parent carrying his child. Or a woman is called, the Church sees her specific precedence over the man.
ANAWIM. Varying in ages, they’re siblings whose parents died a a toy left on the floor. Or a store selling children’s For as it were, upon a child’s entry into the world, the sweetest face he
few years back. clothes. Immediately, my heart travels a thousand miles will ever behold is that of his mother. And as he grows in her care, his
Taking them was a big mistake. away to my bamboo hut in ANAWIM. What are my young mind gets an inkling of a larger and looming Someone who
I ate with these kids, prayed with them, played with them, read kids doing now? loves without measure. Later in his life, it will be easy for that child to
them bedtime stories, and whenever I arrived home, they’d hang on I miss them terribly. find God.
to me like I was a Christmas tree. I miss their noise, their laughter, their smell. She believes—or knows—that she has more power than kings or men
When we’d finish dinner, I’d hear one of them say, “Kuya Bo, magbasa I miss holding that tiny, sleeping girl in my arms. of power because by her hand, her child (her wards, her workers, her
ka na tungkol kay Jesus...” I must admit. My heart is no longer mine. It has been religious community) can become saints or scoundrels, leaders or idlers,
I recall sitting on the bamboo floor, and the two smallest kids broken, and its shattered pieces now reside in tiny glowing successes or failures. She also knows that without her “sincere
scramble for my lap, and the older ones standing beside and behind hearts. They do not know the power they have over gift of self”, there wouldn’t be any inhabitants in this world, nor in heaven.
me. I’d read slowly, pointing to the pages of a kid’s picture Bible. A me. In their utter helplessness, they now own me. I “And so it dawns on her that her glory is not limited to this world.”
thousand questions are asked. They’d laugh, share their simple expe- love them deeply. I’ve become their prisoner. And I No mean task for sure, but that is where her dignity lies. That is why
riences, and sometimes just listen quietly. In the meantime, the young- hope I’ll never get released. any woman, whether a nurturer of life, a single surrogate mother to her
est girl would yawn, rest her head on one of my arms, and sleep But ironically, in this shattered condition of nephews and nieces, a faithful steward of a business (her “baby”), sim-
beautifully. I’d look at her cuddled up on my lap, and I’d tell myself my heart, I’ve never felt so whole. So alive. So ply by her presence of love in any activity where human life is valued—
again, “this is really one big mistake.” free. that woman deserves a hallowed place in the Kingdom where the Fa-
One night, I cried. But they were really tears of joy. I was realizing Yes, it was a big mistake adopting them. ther who started it all—the Embodiment of Love—prepares the grand-
that my life was ridiculously changing, right before my eyes. Be- Probably one of the most beautiful mistakes I’ve est welcome!
cause whenever I left them to go back to my apartment in Manila, or ever made in my life.
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 5
March 3 - 16, 2008 Social Concerns B7
Teaching fishers how to
fish through microfinance Watch and pray
microfinance work for different agricultural tivities will hence contribute in the reha- THE involvement of the Parish Pastoral Council
By Gerald M. Nicolas for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) in the WATCH
sectors—rice farmers, sugar workers, co- bilitation of the waters of Mercedes. Projects
conut farmers and fishers—which are pre- & PRAY Movement transcends partisan politics in the light of our common
which will use marine products like cor-
dominantly perceived as risky by formal crusade for TRUTH. PPCRV is never neutral when it comes to truth. It is
“Give a man a fish and you feed him for a als, shells and mangroves are not ap-
lending institutions particularly in terms always for Truth. It is never neutral when it comes to sin. It is always
day; teach a man to fish and you feed him proved to spare their already depleted re-
of cost effectiveness and loan recovery. against sin. And corruption is sin. We must come together to pray, discuss,
for a lifetime.” This popular Chinese ad- source base from further pressure.
Fishers, for example, have meager and and decide what COMMUNAL ACTION we can do to free us from the cap-
age sounds comically ironic when allud- Loans carry an interest rate of 1.5% per
seasonal incomes, are vulnerable to natu- tivity of corruption and lawlessness. This is the critical challenge before us
ing to an actual fisherman who could be month. Most borrowers interviewed for
ral calamities, and are virtually isolated as responsible citizens and followers of Christ. In response, PPCRV resolves
fishing his entire life. But when seen the study cited this low interest as their
from the mainstream of development. De- to mobilize its parish units nationwide towards the formation of Truth and
against a backdrop of constant threats in main reason for applying for loans espe-
livering financial services to them is hence Prayer Centers, most especially in this time of LENT.
our marine resources and the palpable cially since it was way lower than the rates
neglect of the government to the fisherfolk an utter disincentive for lenders. But IIMC imposed by the informal lenders as well
sector, the humor of the paradox wanes and ISO dared to give hope to these as other MFIs based in Daet, the province’s Common Action Thrust Activities Time Frame
and reality poignantly bites: the poverty unbankable fishers as they are among the capital. Norma Viginia, 54, who borrowed
of the Filipino fishers is increasingly be- sectors in our society that experience the to add to their capital for their fish smok- SEE To build aware- Every parish is en- February 6 –
coming severe. The fisher sure knows how bleakest of poverty: a small fisher takes ing business, shared: “Sa microfinance ng (To be aware) ness on current couraged to orga- March 22, 2008
to fish, but what he catches now barely home a measly PhP3,000 every month IIMC, mababa ang patong kumpara sa 5-6 (a sociopolitical is- nize Truth and (Ash Wednes-
feeds him and his family. How much more based on estimates. And microfinance may usurious money-lending scheme) na araw- sues and contro- Prayer Centers for day to Black
for a lifetime? just be the means to somehow help the fish- araw ang singil kaya mabigat (In microfinance, versies besieging community dia- Saturday)
Our fishers are aware that the bounty of ers cope with their unfortunate situation. the interest is low compared to 5-6 in our national life logues through
the sea is not infinite. In a sleepy coastal With a funding assistance from the Ger- which you have to pay everyday).” today. And to dis- periodic “Kapihan
town of Mercedes, As expected though, slight delays in re- pel the sense of sa Katotohanan”
Camarines Norte, for payment saddle the microfinance opera- INDIFFERENCE within the parish.
example, around 600 tions. This is mainly caused by uncontrol- permeating our Issue based discus-
fishers are pooling their lable weather changes and lack of custom- communities that sion points shall be
efforts together to rescue ers particularly in the islands. It is not be- blocks responsible distributed to par-
whatever is left of the cause the fishers are terrible borrowers, citizenship from ish communities
Lamon and San Miguel as formal creditors are made to believe. happening. for their Lenten
Bays, their major fishing One borrower strongly challenged this recollection and
grounds. Collectively myth: “Dapat kong masunod ‘yung obligasyon formation pro-
known as the Inter-Is- ko. ‘Yung utang ko dapat kong bayaran (I grams.
land Management should follow my obligation. I must pay
Council (IIMC), they my debt).” JUDGE To internalize na- To designate a spe- February 6 –
protect the marine re- In terms of empowerment, Mildred (To Discern) tional issues and cific time of the day March 22, 2008
sources in collaboration Loyola, IIMC’s finance officer, proudly controversies – 3pm Divine (Ash Wednes-
with the local govern- shared that their microfinance project has through prayerful Mercy hour and/ day to Black
ment of Mercedes and somehow given the wives of fishermen a discernment and or 12 noon/6pm Saturday)
the Ateneo-based Insti- chance to show that they too can decide to dispel the sense Angelus hour – for
tute of Social Order (ISO). for their families specifically in terms of of HOPELESS- praying special in-
They are active in patrol- income generation and NESS which dis- tentions for Truth
ling over the seas, look- financial management. courages people to reign in us, and
ing after commercial fishers who illegally They no longer need to from participating that God may dis-
harvest from the municipal waters. A ma- depend on their hus- in good gover- pel hopelessness,
rine sanctuary has also been established. bands’ fishing. Their nance indifference, pas-
It would, however, take some time for women members have sivity which
the bays to be completely replenished. learned to tap their disempower us
Even if the waters attain a level of produc- skills and use it to en- from an active and
tivity sufficient enough to sustain thou- gage in activities that meaningful par-
sands of dependents coming not only from will improve their fami- ticipation in social
Mercedes but also from neighboring com- lies’ income. In some transformation
munities, life will still be tough for fish- instances, a female cli-
ers. Income from fishing fluctuates as the ent shared, the husband ACT To mobilize all Work for the re- February 17 –
seasons change. When the rainy season appreciates the initia- (To Mobilize) parish communi- moval of EO 464. March 23, 2008
comes in usually by August, small-scale tive of the wife to look ties in order to Launch the Nation- (2nd Sunday of
fishers have to content themselves with and consult one another concretize their wide POLITICAL Lent to Easter
what they can catch near the shores than for supplementary Faith Response EDUCATION INI- Sunday)
risk their lives braving the strong waves sources of income. through commu- TIATIVE (2010) for
and violent rains. Their traditional—al- nal action. parochial and
most obsolete—and inadequate fishing man Doctors, Inc., IIMC and ISO launched Creating ripples of change school-based
gears like fish traps and hook and lines a microfinance project called the Small En- The loan portfolio and outreach of the implementation
also yield very limited catch and profit. terprise Economic Development Project or SEED project may pale in comparison to Conduct Signature
Also, fishers are notoriously known (at SEED Project. There is an existing liveli- other established and well-known Campaign for
least in Mercedes) as “one-day million- hood project where qualified members can microfinance institutions (MFIs) in the Truth.
aires.” After a good catch, they usually engage in supplementary activities such country, but IIMC and ISO believe that big
spend for drinking sprees and petty gam- as cattle dispersal, hog raising and fish things start from small beginnings. And
bling. Without enough money saved, fish- culture. This time around, however, IIMC soon the ripples the project is creating will
ers are forced to borrow from usurious and ISO wanted to increase their outreach lead to waves of change as it continues to Suggested questions for communal discussions in the parishes:
moneylenders come the proverbial rainy by extending small loans with affordable reach a greater number of poor fishing What harm has corruption done to our country?
days without realizing that this puts them interest rates and which can be repaid in households as the months pass. Since all corruption is a form of deceit and must be supported by lies, what
in greater debt in the long run. shorter intervals. The lending procedures In the end, we are confronted by the fact are some current glaring cover-ups of truth that have rocked our society?
are also streamlined—from requiring bor- that the marginalized fishers (or any sec- How far have lying and deceit pervaded our society, our culture? (Cite some
Microfinance for fishers rowers a simple project plan to delivering tor) need not wait for mega-investments situational instances)
All these factors prompted IIMC and ISO the loans right at their doorsteps. and multi-million development infrastruc- When I look at myself, how far have I been influenced by and how have I
to introduce a microfinance project that will Since July of last year, the project has tures for food to get into their tables and contributed to this culture of corruption?
allow the poor fishers to augment their disbursed around PhP350,000 benefiting for them to be empowered. The impact of Seeing the harm done by this culture of corruption, deceit and lying, how
small incomes from fishing and save almost 80 fishing households. The amount the SEED Project on its borrowers may only can I uproot this culture from myself?
money at the same time. This project was borrowed—ranging from PhP1,000 to be a drop in the ocean, and its success still How can I promote the uprooting of this culture of corruption, deceit and
cited in a recent research conducted by the PhP5,000—are used for fish smoking modest as of the moment. But by making lying in my parish?
John J. Carroll Institute on Church and So- (pagtitinapa), fresh fish vending or buying credit available and more accessible to the What actions can we together do so as to uproot this culture of corruption,
cial Issues which documented schemes, pro- a small, non-motorized boat. Borrowers poor fishers as well as to other sectors, it deceit and lying from our country?
cesses and practices that fit (and do not fit) also engage in non-fishing livelihood proves that it only takes a very small What concrete measures can we do to help our government officials remove
the intricacies of agriculture. The study projects such as sari-sari stores, piggery and amount of credit—not dole-out—to help from themselves this culture of corruption, deceit and lying?
sought to shed light on how to make buy and sell. Devoting time to these ac- the rural poor improve their lot.
Full / B1
vealing the Father, and continued to be the Church cannot exist as Koinonia as Word of God if it wishes to remain what to prayer and the ministry of the Word.” Word, which precedes it and gives it
proclaimed by the apostles and their suc- intended by Christ and His disciples. Christ intends it to be, an authentic com- (Acts 6, 2-4) meaning. In the Eucharist we find only
cessors. That living tradition as time munity or Koinonia of believers. In the beginning that Word was the one table of the Lord with two comple-
went on had to be fixed permanently in Tradition precedes the written Word Kerygma, whose kernel is the procla- menting menus: the Liturgy of the Word
written words, the Sacred Scriptures, Sacred Oral Tradition though more The primacy of the ministry of the Word mation of the Death and Resurrection of and the Liturgy of the Eucharist. In John
under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. primitive and broader than Sacred Scrip- The primacy of the “Ministry of the Jesus. As evident from the emergence of chapter six we are made to understand
Thus if the Church wants to remain as a tures, is contained in Sacred Scriptures. Word” is clearly indicated in the Acts of the Gospels, that kerygma of the Pas- that the Eucharistic Body and Blood of
Koinonia of believers resulting Christ’s In fact the main content of Sacred Scrip- the Apostles. As the primitive Church chal Mystery (Passion and Resurrection Jesus can be true food and true drink only
mission and that of the apostles and ture is Oral Tradition, which came first developed, many concerns came out from Narratives) expanded into the proclama- if we accept the Word of Jesus, for it is
their successors, then she has to continue before the Word of God was put into the growing communities, including the tion of what Jesus did and said while He only by eating His Body and drinking
to hear this living Word as fixed in the writing and both together are fountains distribution of material goods collected was with His disciples (Jesus’ Ministry, His Blood in faith, that is, accepting His
Sacred Scriptures, inspired by the Spirit, from which the Church today draws for poor widows (Acts 6). So the disciples the main body of the gospels), and even Word can anyone receive life, which is
to experience its message and to live by water for her living faith. Hence the bible summoned the whole body of disciples how Jesus came into the world as the life everlasting.
it in the present situation. Without the occupies a fundamental place in the life and said, “It is not right that we should son of God, the Son of David, the prom-
living connection of the Word made of the Church. This being so, the Church neglect the Word of God to serve at ised Messiah, born of the Virgin Mary The Biblical Apostolate, integral part of
Flesh, proclaimed in Sacred Scriptures, has the duty to continuously hear the tables…As for us, we shall give ourselves as prophesied in the Old Covenant (In- the Church’s mission
fancy Narratives). Since Jesus is fulfill- This then is the full meaning and im-
ment of the Old Covenant, the New Cov- pact of the “biblical apostolate or bibli-
enant cannot be fully understood with- cal pastoral ministry”. Being an integral
out the Scriptures of Israel, God’s cho- part of the mission of the Church en-
sen people. trusted by Christ, it is not simply to be
Title: The Flock guts so he asks Alison, as part of her train- tion at the end. Errol is in continuous characters has remained unknown to the
Running Time: 105 min. ing, to come with him as he uncovers battle against himself. He is not a bad audience even up to the end. Thus, the
Cast: Richard Gere, Claire Danes, Avril the underground world of pornography person so he experiences dissonance film leaves the audience with nothing
Lavigne, KaDee Strickland, Ray and deviant sexual behavior of a flock whenever he commits abuse of power but disturbing images of the dark world
Wise, Kristina Sisco
of sex perverts. At the same time, Alison over the sex offenders. The real trouble out there. Such visuals may cause night-
Director: Andrew Lau
Producers: Andrew Lau is asked by the department to investi- with The Flock is the treatment of the mares and trauma for the young audi-
Screenwriters: Hans Bauer, Craig gate Errol’s suspicious activities. subject matter itself: sexual deviant be- ences so the movie is suited only to view-
Mitchell The Flock’s premise of exploring the haviors and pornography. The story is ers 18 and above. Audiences should also
Music: Guy Farley dark world of deviant sex offenders is dark as it is and it does not help that the be warned of the sensitive subject mat-
Editors: Tracy Adams, Martin Hunter interesting. However, the plotline and root of the darkness in the movie is not ter, acts of violence and vulgar language
Genre: Crime/ Suspense/ Thriller treatment drags in the first half of the clear. The evil that is unknown to the in the film.
Cinematography: Enrique Chediak film. There is too much unnecessary pro-
Distributor: BMS Films cessing of emotions and analysis of
Location: North America minute details that do not contribute
Technical Assessment: ½
Moral much to the flow of the story. The audi-
Moral Assessment: ½ ence can only see the foreground but not
Assessment CINEMA Rating: For mature viewers 18 the background story of the characters.
and above But then, Richard Gere as Errol Babbage
Abhorrent
Disturbing ERROL Babbage (Richard Gere) is a reg- delivers the nuances of the character very
istrant administrator of the Department well. He is able to show depth of emo-
Acceptable of Public Safety in a town far north han- tions, physical strength and wit that are
Wholesome dling various cases of sexual offenders. all needed for the character. Claire
Exemplary After handling the post for some time, Danes however, seems at a lost with her
he has developed a sort of paranoia to depiction of Alison’s character who is
the point of abusing his power towards supposed to be as strong and as witty.
the offenders. Thus, he is forced into re- She becomes the exact opposite of Errol.
Technical tirement and newcomer Alison Lowry Although the crude and dark cinematog-
Assessment (Claire Danes) is taking his place. Errol raphy works very well for the entire ef-
spends his last eighteen days in the of- fect of the film, it only contributed to
Poor fice training Alison. At about the same the audiences’ feeling of boredom.
Below average time, a seventeen-year-old Harriet Wells To kill a monster, one must be a mon-
(Kristina Sisco) has been found missing ster himself or he simply becomes one.
Average The Flock has contemplated on this
and is believed to be abducted by un-
Above average known suspects. Errol is convinced that moral dilemma as Errol tries to put jus-
Excellent Harriet is kidnapped and in the custody tice in his own hands. Such acts are justi-
of one of his paroled sex offenders. How- fied by the clear-cut characterization of
ever, his superiors do not believe in his a person with paranoia and the retribu-
Title: The Spiderwick DIVORCEE Helen Grace (Mary- Spiderwick’s “field guide” to the accompanying computer-gener-
Chronicles Louise Parker) and her teen-aged unseen world, and, defying all ated monsters.
Running Time: 107 min. children Mallory (Sarah Bolger) warnings not to open it, un- The Spiderwick Chronicles is
Cast: Freddie Highmore, Mary- and twins Jared and Simon leashes a chain of events that not only good entertainment for
Louise Parker, Nick Nolte, (Freddie Highmore in a dual role) manifest the presence of evil the whole family—it even offers
Sarah Bolger, Martin Short, move out of New York City into powers surrounding the house. food for thought. What grounds
David Strathairm the countryside, to live in an old Highmore as the identical it is the terrific interweaving of
Director: Mark Waters
Producers: Mark Canton, Larry
house inherited from an aunt, twins Jared and Simon will be re- the unseen world and everyday,
J. Franco, Ellen Goldsmith- Lucinda (Joan Plowright), now in membered for Finding in-your-face realities, such as
Vein, Albie Hecht, Karey a home for the mentally chal- Neverland, August Rush and The broken families, sibling
Kirkpatrick, Julia Pistor lenged. The house has been aban- Golden Compass, films that have squabbles, temper tantrums,
Screenwriters: Karey doned for 80 years after the mys- so far attested to his gifts as an pragmatic though well-meaning
Kirkpatrick, David terious disappearance of Arthur actor. In The Spiderwick parents, etc. Even the things used
Berenbaum, John Sayles Spiderwick (David Strathairn), Chronicles, he outdoes himself to ward off evil are everyday
Music: James Horner Lucinda’s father. Not wanting to by playing two very different household items: tomato sauce,
Editor: Michael Khan hurt her children, Helen conceals characters: one rebellious, the salt, honey, etc. This movie is safe
Genre: Adventure/ Drama the fact that her husband has ac- other, not. Mary-Louise Parker and wholesome enough to merit
Cinematography: Caleb
Deschanel tually left them for another delivers a solid performance as a PG-13 rating by CINEMA, but
Distributor: Paramount woman. Unaware of this, Jared the strong mother with a secret. care should be taken in explain-
Pictures cannot understand why his father The plausible plot and the cast’s ing things to younger children,
Location: Canada cannot visit them as he promises; performance put The Spiderwick differentiating for them between
Technical Assessment: this makes him a problematic Chronicles notches above the or- fact and fiction. Yes, there is defi-
child, stubbornly keeping to him- dinary fantasy movie—for your nitely an “unseen world” (other-
Moral Assessment: ½ self and forever looking for own good it won’t carry you wise what for is faith?), thus
CINEMA Rating: For viewers trouble by poking into the nooks away to a make-believe world as guide the children to pay atten-
age 13 and below with and crannies of the old house. He it anchors you to down-to-earth tion to what’s going on behind
parental guidance soon discovers Arthur realities that form the spine of what they see. (Case in point:
the story. Even the elves and fair- when a boy stabs his father after
ies project human qualities, and he declares his love for the
Buhay Parokya
the ogres and goblins manage to former.) The Spiderwick
look menacing without giving Chronicles should give children
Look for the three missing items: Water jug, Doctor’s you a “digital feel” commonly a good exercise in discernment.
bag and Sunglasses (Illustration by Bladimer Usi)
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 5
March
March 33 -- 16,
16, 2008
2008
C1
The origins of
Couples for Christ
(First of a series)
by Marivie Dalman and Tony Gimenez
IN this issue, we begin a series on the history and The movement was given a major endorsement
charisms of Couples for Christ – its origins, its de- by Leon Joseph Cardinal Suenens, a leading liberal
velopment, the struggles and challenges it faced as cardinal in the Catholic Church. Three popes have
it spread not just in the Philippines but worldwide. acknowledged the movement: Pope Paul VI, Pope
This is an honest attempt to finally write the de- John Paul II, and Pope Benedict XVI.
finitive history of CFC, and to leave to future gen- In March 1992, Pope John Paul II stated: “At this
erations a legacy of a true, fair and complete as- moment in the Church’s history, the Charismatic
sessment of a community that began as a small Renewal can play a significant role in promoting
group, became a movement and finally a Vatican- the much-needed defense of Christian life in soci-
recognized international and private lay associa- eties where secularism and materialism have weak-
tion of the faithful. ened many people’s ability to respond to the Nonoy and Marivie Dalman with Vic and Agnes Gutierrez
Spiritand to discern God’s loving call. Your contri-
At an earlier time… bution to the re-evangelization of society will be men stayed away from the prayer meetings, averse Vic formed a team and, after much prayer and
made in the first place by personal witness to the to the loud prayers and raising of arms in worship discernment, decided to hold home-based Life in
Charismatic, is an umbrella term used to de- indwelling Spirit and by showing forth His pres- which characterized those meetings. the Spirit Seminars (LSS). The team wanted to try a
scribe Christians who believe that the manifesta- ence through works of holiness and solidarity.” In one of his trips abroad, Fr. Herb – who had new evangelization method – one that could draw
tions of gifts of the Holy Spirit seen in the first become head of the LnP coordinators —was invited the men in. They invited married couples to a so-
century Christian Church are available to contem- Laying the Foundation to attend a breakfast forum for men. This inspired cial evening in the home of Eli and Ophie
porary Christians and may be fully experienced him to replicate the experience in the Philippines. Concepcion in Quezon City. Vic told his team:
and practiced today. In the Philippines, the Ligaya ng Panginoon Together with some LnP members, he started a “Our strategy is to introduce these couples to a per-
The Catholic Charismatic Renewal as it exists (LnP), founded in July 19, 1975 became the leading breakfast meeting for businessmen, which eventu- sonal relationship with Jesus in a social setting.
today is the outgrowth of a retreat held in Febru- group in the charismatic renewal movement. It ally led to what is known today as BCBP (Brother- We will invite them to a social activity, not a prayer
ary 1967 of several faculty members and students started as a simple prayer group held every Fri- hood of Christian Businessmen and Professionals). meeting. There, we will share with them God’s
from Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, U. S. A. day. Fr. Herb Schneider, S.J. who had just arrived Among those who attended the prayer groups were invitation to a renewed life with Him.”
Many of the students experienced a movement of from Innsbruck, Austria, was invited to join. By faculty members from the UST College of Engi- Using a home of one of the members, the team
God’s Spirit called being “baptized in the Holy 1979, LnP was conducting two weekly charismatic neering. In time, this led to the first campus-based arranged the living room to exude a friendly, re-
Spirit.” What happened quickly spread to graduate prayer meetings – one in Assumption Convent in evangelization of students known today as the CYA laxing atmosphere. They engaged the invited
students and professors at the University of Notre San Lorenzo Village, Makati, and another one in (Christ’s Youth in Action). couples in small groups, discussing the challenges
Dame and others serving in campus ministry in Christ the King Seminary in Quezon City. Around In 1980, Fr. Herb and LnP directed one of its and joys of raising a family in the modern world.
Lansing, Michigan. The movement spread rapidly, 800 people usually attended the Assumption prayer coordinators, Vic Gutierrez, to design an outreach Light snacks and drinks were served. Before the
so that, by 2003, the Catholic Charismatic Renewal meeting every week, while Christ the King had an program that could attract married couples toward evening ended, Vic spoke to them about the strong
was in over 230 countries worldwide, touching over average weekly attendance of 400. These assem- a renewed Catholic life. They realized that to ef- need to support each other in caring for their fami-
119 million members according to David Barret, blies were arguably the biggest prayer groups in fectively renew society, a conversion to Christ of lies and for Divine Guidance in their role as par-
head of Global Evangelization Movement in Rich- Metro Manila at that time. Interestingly, women both spouses, and consequently their families, was ents. He closed the evening with an invitation for
mond, VA. comprised about 80% of those who attended. The necessary. them to come again. Origins / C4
CBCP Monitor
C2 Ugnayan Vol. 12 No. 5
March 3 -16, 2008
Lent is love
by Joe Tale, CFC Director
all about God’s infinite love for man. Lent is all opens up our hearts to the grace of God so that we our stand. We have aligned ourselves with our bish-
about forgiveness which is a basic element of Love. can let go all the hurts, all the bitterness and be ops in their call for communal action that is peace-
The very center of Christian faith and life is based healed. ful, that is just and most of all, that involves our
on forgiveness. Christianity itself is, above all, the Jesus gave us the perfect model when He said individual commitment to do our share in healing
religion of forgiveness. God forgives us, and His we are called to forgive our enemy not seven times this nation. (See Council Statement on page 3. Ed). In
forgiveness is in Christ, His Son, Whom He sends but seventy times seven. What a wonderful admo- this Lenten season, it would be good if we could all
to us, so that by sharing in His humanity we may nition, but an extremely difficult one to obey. Can reflect on how we can contribute to making this
share in His love and be truly reconciled with God. we reach out and bridge relationships with friends nation what God wants it to be.
Indeed, Christianity has no other content but love. who have betrayed us? Can we reach out and ask Paul tells us not to lose hope and never to give
And it is primarily the renewal of that love, a re- forgiveness from those whom we hurt? up the effort and struggle to make our personal
turn to it, a growth in it, that we seek in Great Lent, Forgiveness liberates. Forgiveness brings about lives and our society always more human and more
in fasting and prayer, in the entire spirit and the the gift of healing. No matter how great the trans- divine. We are assured that this is not only pos-
AS we enter fully into the spirit of the Lenten sea- entire effort of that season. Thus, truly forgiveness gression, forgiveness is always greater. And in our sible but that it is also guaranteed. Why? How?
son, we see the fullness of the salvific love that is both the beginning of, and the proper condition Christian life, forgiveness allows us to truly love Because our God is always there beside us, always
Jesus our Lord has for us. More than 2,000 years for, the Lenten season for it is the very beginning and become like Christ. ready to help us along. But He requires three things
ago, He came into the world to fulfill His mission of embracing God’s love. What about Love? We have spoken reams and from us: first, to follow His example and be toler-
— to proclaim the Good News, to minister to the It is significant that our community has chosen volumes about Love, especially as to how we ant with each other; second, and even better, that
poor, and to spread out His arms and die for us, so Love as our theme this year. In this season of Lent, should relate to one another in community, in the like Him we start dealing with each other in a con-
that humanity’s sins may be forgiven. how should we love? wake of the conflict that still continues to rage. Our ciliatory and friendly way and not as enemies; third,
The fifth Sunday of Lent is known as the Sunday The Lord has given us a path to follow – the path counsel remains the same: Be still and know that and perhaps the more demanding for us, that with
of Forgiveness, the day that is also the onset of of forgiveness and the path of love. Jesus said, “If God is working to put things in order. Be still and Him and like Him, we humble ourselves and be-
Great Lent. The focus of this Sunday is the fall to sin you forgive men their trespasses, your Heavenly know that He will not allow this community that come servants of each other, as He showed us by
of Adam and Eve, leading to our separation from Father will forgive you.” He also said, “Love one He raised to be brought down. Be still and allow the example of His washing His apostles’ feet.
God. This reminds us of our need for God’s for- another as I have loved you.” the love of Christ to flow into our hearts and out to Lent is a time of grace. It is our fervent prayer
giveness and guides our hearts, minds, and spiri- In this season of Lent, we are reminded to for- others, especially to those who have wronged us. that we use this time to truly allow God’s grace to
tual efforts in returning to Him in repentance. In give, for without forgiving there can be no love. In this year of Love, we continue to be faced wash us, to heal us, to open up our hearts. The best
the religious life, the fifth Sunday of Lent is the day The past year’s events have given us many reasons with struggles that beset not just our personal lives thing about Lent is that it is the gateway to Easter,
when nuns and priests pray the Vespers service of to forgive and to seek forgiveness. Hurting words and our community life, but our country. Today, the time of rejoicing and of remembering that we
forgiveness just before they go on what is called as were said, friendships were broken, family ties were there is once again a cacophony of voices clamor- have a God who died out of love for us, but who
Holy Fast, a period of intense fasting. severed, commitments shattered. Forgiveness al- ing for change in the face of the twin evils of graft Himself was so beloved of the Father that He rose
Let us remember what Lent is all about. Lent is lows us to let go of all these bitter experiences. It and corruption. As a community we have made from the dead.
Philippine Mission -
by Joe Yamamoto
EVERY single year, CFC leadership declares the bers, sectors, provinces and countries), they are to ence. It defines the whole dimension of human ciency ordained by a loving God.
theme that will guide the community in its work. assure, train and form their members faithfully society and the diverse concerns that affect not
In 2008, it is ‘Love one another as I have loved you into strong and vibrant disciples. only our country but the whole world i.e. in the DIRECTIONS
(John13:34-35). This theme also helps provide fo- 2. SERVANT LEADERS- They are to be living areas of social justice, respect for life and work
cus for the three-pronged goals of the community witnesses to the Christian faith, walking their talk with the poor (Gawad Kalinga). Because CFC is an evangelizing community,
– Evangelization and Formation, Family Life Re- and modeling their life and service along the To emphasize, Total Christian Liberation we are therefore not only believers in and follow-
newal and Total Christian Liberation (Social Jus- Christian ideals. They should understand that they (TCL) does not limit the scope of CFC work only ers of Christ but are called upon to make the Good
tice, respect for life and the work with the poor). are to lead their people to Christ and bring Christ to Catholics, or other Christians but broadly ex- News real and attainable.
During the well-attended Leaders Conference to the people. tends to every one, whatever their race, back- The following guidelines on evangelization
at the Araneta Coliseum last January 12, the ex- 3.STEWARDS- They must make full, prudent ground or creed. TCL refers to the way, the atti- should help:
panded vision and mission statements were an- and competent use of all the time, talents and re- tude and the posture by which we have been called 1. While rallies and inspirational activities are
nounced by the full seven-man council. Thus sources raised for the furtherance of God’s King- to serve as Christians, following the very example great for those in community, the one-on-one
stated, CFC vision calls on “Families in the Holy dom - their own and those of the people assigned of Jesus. Furthermore, TCL is defined explicitly evangelization works best. By our daily witness-
Spirit renewing the Face of the Earth”. With added under their pastoral care. They must serve with by the Vatican-approved statutes of CFC. ing through our very own transformed lives, by
emphasis, it continues: “...Moved by the Holy the attitude of being responsible, accountable and sharing the wonders of family and community
Spirit, One with the Catholic Church, Blessed to transparent in their actions and their works. THE CHALLENGE life, or by telling stories of the happiness we ex-
Witness to Christ’s Love and Service; Couples for 4. SOLDIERS- As part of God’s peaceful army, perience, we are accorded many wonderful op-
Christ is a united global community of Family CFC leaders must always be ready, faithful and For some time, the mission mantra of CFC was portunities to show Christ’s love working in us.
Evangelizers, that sets the World on Fire with the willing to win souls and territories for Christ. They ‘massive, rapid, and global evangelization’. That 2. Since everyone is an evangelizer, no one is
Fullness of God’s transforming Love” are called to do battle against evil and injustice in was our battle cry for the late eighties and early exempted from the CLPs. It is nice to give talks,
CFC Mission of “Building the Church of the the world. nineties. It served the community well as can be but it hardly counts. Every leader is tasked with
Home and the Church of the Poor” defines the gleaned from the rapid growth in numbers as well the responsibility to mount and lead the CLP ac-
broad areas across which leaders and members THE HEARTBEAT OF THE MISSION as geographic and territorial presence in the sec- tivities. The reminder is for everyone, including
are to proceed in accomplishing the goals. With ond decade of the life of CFC. the International Council, the Governance teams,
the road map reviewed and laid out, the minis- Evangelization is at the very heart of the mis- When the Social Ministries were established, and the Provincial Councils and down the line.
tries can now seamlessly align their plans and sion of Couples for Christ. When faithfully ex- this was premised on CFC’s willingness to respond Once a CFC, always an evangelizing CFC!
work activities. ecuted, people are transformed and their lives are with more dynamism and boldness in evangeli- 3. Evangelization is not just about CLPs, but
permanently changed. Personal and family trans- zation. It was also CFC’s answer to the challenges the whole spectrum of plans, activities and initia-
A GATHERING OF LEADERS formation is sustained in the households, forma- posed by the deteriorating social conditions – pov- tives that lead to the CLPs. So the work of the
tion teachings, services, conferences, retreats, and erty, lawlessness, apathy, injustice and breakup Family Ministries can be crafted creatively to ad-
Clear on CFC’s mission and vision, the Provin- even in fellowships. As we experience commu- of families. During those formative times, we tried dress this expectation. Similarly, the various So-
cial Area Councils and the Metro Manila Gover- nity life, all of us mature in the immersion and to fit the ministries to the many mission profiles cial Ministries can creatively do likewise.
nance Team came together for the Annual Year- learn to share the blessings of being in commu- by putting up structures, and assigning and arbi- 4. Every year end we submit reports on mem-
start Meeting last January 13 at SEAMEO Center. nity to others. trarily allocating manpower down the line drawn bership. While the evangelization reports will
The Provincial and Regional Area Heads planning Evangelization encompasses broad areas but by our pastoral organization. Instead of respond- not necessarily reflect the numbers of persons who
sessions followed the next day, January 14. Fol- can be simply grouped into two areas: PERSONAL ing to the opportunities presented by and through benefited from our activities, qualitative report-
lowing the parameters defined by the broad con- AND FAMILY LIFE RENEWAL, and TOTAL the Social Ministries, it was sadly misunderstood ing is made more relevant by enumerating the
sultative and interactive dynamics of the Pastoral CHRISTIAN LIBERATION. by some as a venue to ‘rest’ from mainstream evan- many activities that are being done by commu-
Congress that was launched in August 2007, the With the advent of the Social Ministries, the gelization work and turn lax in their commitment. nity members for others.
Philippine Mission cascaded the outputs to the op- scope of interactions widened and CFC leaders The reality should have been that, beyond advo- 5. Gawad Kalinga and the Social Ministries
erational and leadership teams across the country. and members discovered more opportunities for cacy or services, the Social Ministries were inte- present many unique opportunities in support of
In the same gathering, the respective roles of evangelization. Additional areas of service be- gral to the definition of the totality of CFC work Total Christian Liberation (TCL). Others may not
CFC Leaders were reiterated as follows: came available. of evangelization. be drawn to CFC community but by our work for
Total Christian Liberation represents a very cru- CFC’s work with the poor is epitomized by the the poor, we help others to become better believ-
1. SHEPHERDS- Chosen to lead and take care cial and dynamic aspect by which the CFC com- great and tremendous impact that Gawad Kalinga ers and practitioners of their respective creeds and
of the flock entrusted to them (household mem- munity has been called upon to make the differ- has in the life of the community, in the whole coun- faiths,
try and in many 6. We are all called upon to create and nurture
areas of the a caring environment and atmosphere in the
world. Gawad households and in the whole community.
Kalinga, even as 7. Fostering closer relations with the Clergy
it simulta- by supporting parish and diocesan initiatives and
neously inspires looking for ways to help and support them is im-
and challenges, perative. By recognizing that the Church is both
goes above and the clergy and the laity, we become better part-
beyond the vi- ners in evangelization.
brant communi-
ties and the col- NEW AVENUES FOR EVANGELIZATION
orful homes it
has built. Gawad God truly rewards faithfulness to the mission
Kalinga was cre- by presenting avenues for evangelization. The first
ated to fulfill the quarter of the year is not yet over but already the
very mission of community is presented with many wonderful and
Christ of ‘bring- exciting opportunities, such as the provision of
ing glad tidings values formation for our OFWs – those who are
to the poor’ - to about to leave, those already in their work sta-
transform lives tions abroad, and those returning home for good.
according to Another opportunity is the work to evangelize
God’s plan, to the thousands of resettled families that the na-
restore order tional government has relocated, such as those
and human dig- along the North and South Rail areas that have
nity as befitting been transferred to Cavite, Laguna and Bulacan.
God’s children God has given CFC as a precious gift for evan-
and to enable gelization, and each one of us is given our gener-
the poor to expe- ous share of opportunities to share in the work.
rience the provi- How we choose to respond, will greatly define
dence and suffi- how we move forward as God’s community.
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 5
March 3 - 16, 2008 Ugnayan C3
Bishop shares insights The Tekton Guild Foundation, a socio-economic ministry of CFC
recently entered into an agreement with the Department of Labor
and Employment (DOLE) to conduct Values Formation Seminar/
Program and provide counseling services for OFWs and their fam-
on matrimony
ily members. The MOA was signed by Lito Tayag, member of the
IC (International Council) and DOLE Sec. Arturo Brion.
THE MCG Teaching Night held at Xavier who receive it. It also makes the couple explained that the Church follows civil
School on February 19 focused on a topic that receives it holy, provided the sacra- law regulations regarding the impedi-
perfect for the month of hearts: marriage. ment is received without impediment. ments. Unlike the state, however, the
His Excellency Bishop Francisco San Di- There are three elements needed to Church can grant a dispensation to lift
ego (Diocese of Pasig), who sat at the make a marriage valid: (1) there should an impediment. “Without the three ele-
Marriage Tribunal for 15 years and taught be no impediments, such as age, a previ- ments,” he said, “the marriage is not
matrimonial law for five years, was ous existing marriage, difference in wor- valid, and therefore not holy and cannot
guest speaker. ship or disparity of cult, consanguinity, sanctify.”
The good bishop stressed that the etc.; (2) consent should be freely and The Bishop was generous with his
basis and foundation of marriage is love. willingly given by the contracting par- advice and admonition. Those who are
According to him, unity and indissolu- ties; and (3) canonical witnesses should still single, he cautioned, should not to
bility are the salient qualities of mar- be present during the ceremony. be in a hurry to get married because it’s
riage, which Jesus Christ elevated from Bishop San Diego made clear the fact important to be financially, emotion-
a mere covenant or contract to a sacra- that the groom and the bride are the ally, psychologically, and spiritually
ment. As a sacrament, matrimony is holy ministers of the sacrament; the priest is prepared for a lifetime commitment.
in itself and bestows grace upon those merely a witness of the Church. He also “Build on love that is already there,” he
(From left to right) Nolet Ladrido (Project Leader) Amb. Boy Parungao (Project Coordina-
said, “not on the hope that your spouse tor), Lito Tayag (Chairman, Tekton Guild / Foundation) and DOLE Sec. Arturo Brion.
will learn to love you someday”.
To married couples, he emphasized
the need to practice honesty, sincerity,
openness, and fidelity to make a mar-
riage work. He also admonished parents
to allow their married children to live
on their own so that they, too, can apply
the graces of marriage in their own mar-
ried life.
According to the Bishop, CFC is
meant to be a light to every couple in
the world because of its global nature.
But each couple should start at home by
fulfilling their obligations to their
spouse, and caring for their children and
raising them as Catholics. “Praying and
going to mass together adds to the sanc-
tity of marriage,” he added. He cited how
Cardinal Newman, a former Protestant,
was so touched by the faith of his neigh-
bors – a Catholic family who went to
mass together every Sunday – that he
(From left to right) Mila Ladrido, Nolet Ladrido (Project Leader) Amb. Boy Parungao (Project
eventually converted to Catholicism. Coordinator), Lito Tayag (Chairman, Tekton Guild / Foundation) and DOLE Sec. Arturo
“This,” the Bishop said, “is the fruit of Brion, Usec. Linda Padilla, Deputy Administrator Tess Manzala.
Bishop Francisco San Diego, DD the sanctity of marriage.”
CBCP Monitor
C4 Ugnayan Vol. 12 No. 5
March 3 - 16, 2008