•A3 •B1 •C1

Filipino seafarers prone to ‘We cannot be silent about Docete

exploitation, says CBCP officials what we know’ –Pope A Catechetical Publication of the Episcopal
Commission on Catechesis and Catholic Education

Bishops blame mining, Church tells gov’t to ditch

www.cbcponline.net/cbcpmonitor cbcpmonitor@cbcpworld.net

gov’t neglect over plans for more casinos

ComVal landslides PLANS for a string of large-scale gambling and
casinos should be ditched, a religious leader has
IN a rare media interview, a Catholic bishop said.
took issue with the local authorities of Roman Catholic bishops called
Compostela Valley over the death of at least 20 on government officials to
people due to twin landslides there. block such a scheme. Depart-
Tagum Bishop Wilfredo Manlapaz said that ment of Trade and Industry
over Church-run Radyo Veritas, because for secretary Peter Favila,
him, those tragic deaths could have been pre- Protagonist of Truth, Promoter of Peace
earlier this week,
vented had the authorities acted earlier. claimed continuing
The landslides, which struck Poblacion September 15 - 28, 2008 Vol. 12 No. 19 Php 20.00 promotion of casi-
Landslides / A6 Casino / A6
© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media

Cebu Archbishop Ricardo Cardinal Vidal crowns a statue of Our Lady of Mediatrix of All Grace during a Mass for the 5th National Pilgrimage to Lipa at the Carmel Monastery Church on Sept.12. The pilgrimage is also in commemoration of the 60th anniversary of the reported

Church gains momentum on

"appearance" of the Blessed Mother to Sr. Teresita Castillo at the Carmelite Convent in Lipa.

fight vs. reproductive health

By Roy Lagarde The “on-air survey” released
by Church-run Radyo Veritas on
THE Catholic Church September 15 painted a rosy pic-
continued to gain ture of the Church’s gains after
few weeks of campaigning
ground in its fight against the bill that pushes artifi-
against the reproductive cial family planning.
health bill, with a no- The poll also offered a glimpse
table lead in lawmakers’ of how some lawmakers made a
turnaround stand in the weeks of
support, according to a lobbying by Church officials and
newly released poll. pro-life organizations in Con-
gress.
In the survey, the number of
lawmakers against the passage of
the bill pending in Congress is
now at 62 compared to the 26 that
are in favor.
Fr. Anton Pascual, Radio
Veritas President, said the result
of their survey only proves that
the advocacy of the Church
against RH bill 5043 is gaining
momentum.
“The reproductive advocacy of
the church against RH bill 5043 is
gaining momentum with more
than 62 representatives and
counting who are against the pas-
sage of the bill,” he said.
“This bill is very disturbing to
the Catholic moral principle of
absolute value of human life
from first moment of conception
up to the end of this natural life,”
he added, saying that even the
constitution promotes protection
of mothers and unborn child from
the moment of conception.
“All abortion and abortifacient
pills, drugs, injectables are con-
trary to God’s design. RH bill
5034 is anti-life, anti-family, and
anti-Filipino,” said Pascual.
Started only last September 8,
the “on-air survey” of Veritas is
expected to conclude by Friday,
September 19.
Among those who opposed the
Llandro Mendoza (4rth district,
Batangas), Rene Velarde
(BUHAY), Emmanuel Villanueva
(CIBAC), Eduardo Zialcita (1st
district, Parañaque), Carmencita
Reyes (Marinduque), Ellen
Ermita Buhain (1st district,
Batangas), Eleandro Madrona
(Romblon), Vincent Garcia (2nd
district, Davao), Belma Cabilao
(1st district, Zamboanga
Sibugay), Edgar Valdez (APEC),
Reynila Nicolas (4rth district,

Pope appoints RP bishop,

RH bill are Bem Noel (AN Bulacan), Hermilando Mandanas
WARAY), Glenn Chong (Biliran), (2nd district, Batangas), Teodolo
Mary Ann Susano (2nd district, Coquilla (Eastern Samar), Irwin
Quezon City), Rizalina Seachon Tieng (BUHAY), Antonio Cuenco

Filipina to attend Synod in Rome

Bastes David
A LAY Filipina is among the over twenty
women from around the world appointed by
Pope Benedict XVI to attend the Synod on the
Word of God in October in Rome.
The Vatican officially announced last week
the appointment of Elvira Yap-Go, a Papal
Awardee Pro Ecclesiae et Pontificae as one of
the Auditors of the said gathering.
The Vatican report said the upcoming Synod
of Bishops includes the largest participation
ever by women.
The Pontiff appointed 25 women to join in-
cluding six Experts and 19 Auditors. Among
them are three Asians, one of which is Go.
A Synod is a gathering of Catholic bishops,
summoned to Rome by the Pope, to advise him
on the subject of his choice.
Yap-Go Pabillo
It is neither a deliberative body nor one that
defines dogmas or makes rules for the Church.
Also appointed by the Pope to participate in
the Synod was Cotabato Archbishop Orlando
Quevedo, secretary general of the Federation
of the Asian Bishops Conferences.
Quevedo’s appointment will bring the num-
ber of Filipino bishops who will be attending
the said meeting to five.
Members of the Catholic Bishops Conference
of the Philippines last July elected bishops Luis
Antonio Tagle, Pablo David, Arturo Bastes and
Broderick Pabillo as their delegates to the Synod.
Go is the chair of the national secretariat of
the Catholic Family Bible Quiz, a program
which aims to draw families to closer to God
and the Church through the Bible.
Tagle Quevedo
Quevedo
She also hosts a weekly TV magazine pro-
gram, Power to Unite aired at NBN and IBC.
Go likewise heads the International Organi-
zation of Folk Arts Philippines promoting val-
ues among public school children nationwide
through myths and legends.
In addition to the voting members consist-
ing of bishops and priests, there are also guests
called Auditors.
As appointed Auditor, Go is expected to at-
tend all the sessions and will have the opportu-
nity to express her opinions on the various sub-
jects addressed in the commissions and discus-
sion circles which are established according to
linguistic criteria, personal dialogues with the
Synod fathers, as well as the so called auditions
on plenary sessions. (CBCPNews)
(3rd district, Masbate), Proceso
Alcala (2nd district, Quezon),
Emil Ong (2nd district, northern
Samar), Rufus Rodriguez (2nd
district, Cagayan de Oro),
Milagros Magsaysay (1st district,
Zambales), Antonino Rodolfo
(4rth district, Nueva Ecija),
Edgardo Chatto (1st district,
Bohol), Joseph Abaya (1st district,
Cavite), Bienvenido Abante (6th
district, Manila), Amelita
Villarosa (Occidental Mindoro),
Erico Fabian (2nd district,
Zamboanga), Exequiel Javier
(Antique), Carmelo Lazatin (1st
district, Pampanga), Monico
Puentevella (Bacolod), Eric
Singson (2nd district, Ilocos Sur),
Iggy Arroyo (5th district, Negros
Occidental), Zenaida Angpin (3rd
district, Manila), Benjamin Asilo
(1st district, Manila), Amado
Bagatsing (5th district, Manila),
Roilo Golez (2nd district,
Parañaque), Therese David-
Bonoan (4rth district, Manila),
Jaime Lopez (2nd district, Ma-
nila), Francisco Matugas (1st dis-
trict, Surigao del Norte), Mark
(2nd district, Cebu), Reynaldo Uy
(1st district, Western Samar),
Sharee Ann Tan (2nd district,
Western Samar), Oscar Malapitan
(1st district, Caloocan), Florencio
Miraflores (Aklan), Pablo John
Garcia (3rd district, Cebu), Al
Francis Bichara (2nd district,
Albay), Raul del Mar (1st district,
Cebu), Liwayway Chato
(Camarines Norte), Alfonso
Umali (2nd district, Oriental
Mindoro), Edgardo San Luis (4rth
district, Laguna), Edwin Uy (2nd
district, Isabela), Herminia
Ramiro (2nd district, Misamis Oc-
cidental), Guillermo Romarate
(2nd district, Surigao del Norte),
Rodolfo Valencia (1st district,
Oriental Mindoro), Thelma
Almario (2nd district, Davao),
Carissa Coscolluela (Buhay), An-
tonio Alvarez (1st district,
Palawan), Nanette Daza (4rth dis-
trict, Quezon City), Pedro
Romualdo (Camiguin), Mariano
Piamonte (A-Teacher) and Joseph
Violago (2nd district, Nueva
Ecija).
Reproductive Health / A6

Priest joins Ramadhan CBCP calls on Catholics to reject

REDEMPTORIST priest Amado Picardal
is joining the Muslims in praying and
fasting for peace in this holy month of
Ramadhan.
Picardal, who hails from Iligan City
said that he is observing the fast to ex-
press his solidarity with Muslims in
Mindanao who are also fasting.
“For 24 hours, I won’t be eating any-
thing. I am praying and fasting for
peace amidst the escalating armed con-
flict in Mindanao during the month of
Ramadhan. I will be doing this every
Friday. I will still be fasting on the
other days of the week but it will be
the traditional Catholic type of fasting,
this means eating only one meal a day,”
he said.
Picardal said the abandonment of the
peace process between the govern-
ment and the Moro Islamic Lib-
eration Front (MILF) has sad-
dened him considering the
rising atrocities reported
daily.
“There is nothing much I
can do. I feel so helpless in
the midst of this seemingly
hopeless situation. I cannot
bike for peace across the
war-torn areas, the clashes
have already started and be-
sides I am afraid to be
caught in the cross-fire. So
Ramadhan / A6
‘false prophets’
THE Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the
Philippines today called on the Catholic
faithful “to stand in solidarity and cour-
age and reject false prophets who are try-
ing to impose a new morality upon the
nation, which offends all notions of right
and wrong, good and bad, and rejects the
very truth we have received from God.”
The call was made by Archbishop
Paciano Aniceto of San Fernando,
Pampanga, on behalf of the CBCP Epis-
copal Commission on Family and Life
(ECFL), which he chairs, in the wake of
published statements attributed to the
principal author of House Bill 5043 on
reproductive health, which makes certain
claims against the Catholic Church.
In a statement to the press, Aniceto cau-
tioned lawmakers against “trying to
propagate false and harmful doctrines
that have already misled countless men
and women around the world, and
caused the moral and spiritual ruin of
their lives and souls.”
“Lawmakers owe it to themselves and
to the people they serve to recognize that
the truth about man and woman ema-
nates from God, and not from Congress.
It is not created by politically designed
surveys or political consensus,” the state-
ment said.
“The Church will continue to teach the
truth, and tell the faithful what they need
to know to perfect their lives in good-
ness. The Church will not tell men and
women what they simply want to hear,
or give moral consent to any wrong or
harmful thing they may want to do, at
the bidding of false prophets. The
Church will continue to denounce as an
offense against the fundamental right of
Christians, any effort to fashion a new
golden calf as an object of worship in
lieu of God.”
The Archbishop called on the members
of Congress to check any effort by cer-
tain interested parties to make use of the
proposed law as a convenient vehicle to
enter into a permanent sales contract with
manufacturers of contraceptives.
“Our friends in Congress should exert
every effort to make sure the proposed
law is not exploited by certain parties, in
collaboration with contraceptives manu-
facturers and suppliers, to create their
own pork barrel, which will again hit the
poor, in the billions of pesos,” the ECFL
statement said.
“There is nothing to prevent an unscru-
pulous politician from demanding com-
missions from the condoms manufactur-
ers for having helped in the passage of
law that provides for the continued gov-
ernment purchase of contraceptives year
after year. The proposed 2009 budget
alone carries an appropriation of at least
P3.4 billion for this purpose,” a source
close to Archbishop Aniceto explained.
(CBCPNews)
 CBCP Monitor
A2 World News Vol. 12 No. 19
September 15 - 28, 2008

Holy Father concludes his visit, saying,

‘I prayed for France and for the world!’
LOURDES, France, September 15, 2008—The Holy Fa-
ther thanked the French for their hospitality during his
four-day trip that ended with a departure ceremony on
Monday afternoon. During his closing remarks, the Pon-
tiff recalled that before the Grotto of Massabielle, he spent
time praying for the pilgrims, for the Church, for France,
and for the world.
Following this morning’s Mass for the sick, the Pope
traveled to the airport of Tarbes-Lourdes-Pyrenees for
his farewell ceremony. Present for the celebration were
the French prime minister, Francois Fillon, political and
civil authorities, the bishops of the Mini-Pyrenees re-
gion, and the president, vice president and secretary gen-
eral of the Conference of Bishops of France.
Benedict XVI thanked all who had worked “devotedly
and whole-heartedly for the successful outcome,” of his
four day visit to France.
He described his journey in terms of the two panel
piece of art called a diptych.
The first panel of the visit was “Paris, a city that I know
well and the scene for several important meetings. There
I met a vibrant people, proud of their firm faith; I came to
encourage them to persevere courageously in living out
the teaching of Christ and His Church,” he said.
The second panel of the diptych contained “a sym-
bolic place, which attracts and fascinates every believer,”
Pope Benedict commented. Picking up on the theme of
light which was a prominent feature of his preaching,
the Holy Father depicted Lourdes as “like a light in the
darkness of our groping to reach God. Mary opened
there a gate towards a hereafter which challenges and
charms us.”
“The Pope was duty bound to come to Lourdes to cel-
ebrate the 150th anniversary of the apparitions,” he said.
“Before the Grotto of Massabielle, I prayed for all of you.
I prayed for the Church. I prayed for France and for the
world.”
Similar to all other pilgrims, the Holy Father explained,
“I completed all four stages of the Jubilee Way, visiting
the parish church, the Cachot and the Grotto, and finally
the chapel of the hospital. I also prayed with and for the
sick who come here to seek physical relief and spiritual
hope. God does not forget them, and neither does the
Church. Like every faithful pilgrim, I wanted to take
part in the torchlight procession and the Blessed Sacra-
ment procession. They carry aloft to God our prayers
and our praise,” he reminded.
Benedict XVI also recalled how he shared with French
bishops “my conviction that the times are favorable for a
return to God.”
Minutes later, Pope Benedict boarded his flight and
departed, arriving two hours later at Rome’s Ciampino
airport. From there, the Holy Father traveled to his sum-
mer residence at Castel Gandolfo. (CNA)

Catholic journalists being First Asian congress on

promoting the liturgy begins
hunted by Vietnamese police in Sri Lanka
COLOMBO, Sri Lanka, Septem-
With tensions simmering between the police and the Catholic ber 15, 2008—”Liturgy as a
protestors, the government has spent the better part of the past Glimpse of Heaven on Earth” is
month using its influence in the state media to spread false accu- the theme of the first liturgical
sations, defame parishioners, their priests, and the Church as a congress that will take place in
whole. Asia, in Sri Lanka. The meeting
False priests and people who aren’t even Catholics have also will be held from tomorrow un-
been trotted out for TV interviews, radio, and newspapers. til September 21 in
The police have even gone so far as to physically attack some of Uswatakeiyawa, a coastal city
the protestors, local sources report. about 30 kilometers from the
Realizing that their efforts to distort the Catholic protests are capital of Colombo.
not succeeding when it comes to international news outlets, such Organized by the Congrega-
as CNA, the Vietnamese police have made internet reporting a tion for Divine Worship and Dis-
crime and have organized a manhunt for Catholic reporters. cipline of Sacraments, the con-
One source informed CNA that plain-clothed police are hunt- gress is expected to include 55 del-
ing for Catholic reporters who have corresponded with media egates from 19 Asian countries,
outlets regarding developments of the protests. including cardinals, bishops, and Archbishop Malcolm Ranjith, secretary gen-
One Catholic reporter, who asked to remain anonymous out of priests. The participants will hold eral of Congregation for Divine Worship
fear of being discovered, related a recent incident. “I was about to meetings, group discussions, and and Discipline of Sacraments
send an email, when police swamped in. The person next to me working sessions. Council has several aims in view:
had his browsing history inspected. He was even forced to log Each country will present a re- it desires to impart an ever in-
into his Gmail account for a ‘security inspection’.” port from its own national commis- creasing vigor to the Christian
HANOI, Vietnam, September 11, 2008—Thousands of Catholics in The Vietnamese government is closely monitoring reports of sion on the liturgy, and the del- life of the faithful; to adapt more
Hanoi are continuing their peaceful protests asking for the return Catholic outlets on the protests. “You are in serious trouble should egates will attend parish Masses and suitably to the needs of our own
of their land illegally seized by the Vietnamese government. Wor- your browsing history include Asia-News, Catholic News Agency, meet the faithful of Sri Lanka. The times those institutions which are
ried about the international exposure of their tactics, the police Catholic World News, Independent Catholic News, VietCatholic meeting will be presided over by subject to change; to foster what-
are engaging in a campaign against journalists and foreign media. News, Zenit... just to say a few names,” the source warned. (CNA) Nigerian cardinal Francis Arinze, ever can promote union among
prefect of the congregation, to- all who believe in Christ; to

Benedict XVI honors late cardinal who

gether with the secretary general, strengthen whatever can help to
Archbishop Malcolm Ranjith, a na- call the whole of mankind into
tive of the diocese of Kurunegala in the household of the Church. The
Sri Lanka. The archbishop of Co- Council therefore sees particu-

stood before firing squad during WWII

VATICAN CITY, September 11, 2008—A car-
dinal who assisted those sentenced to be de-
ported during World War II died Septem-
ber 6 at the age of 93. Yesterday, Benedict
XVI spoke of Cardinal Anthony Innocenti’s
life in a homily at the Vatican Basilica.
The Holy Father began his homily on
Wednesday morning by sharing the details
of the Italian cardinal’s life.
After his priestly ordination in 1938, Car-
dinal Innocenti taught at the diocesan semi-
nary. During World War II, he accompanied
his bishop on pastoral visits. “In that dra-
matic period he stood out for his selfless-
ness and generosity in helping people and
saving those destined for deportation. For
this he was arrested and condemned to be
shot, but the order was reversed as he stood
before of the firing squad,” Benedict XVI re-
called.
After the war, the cardinal served the
Church in Rome. He was “appointed as pon-
tifical representative to Paraguay” and was
ordained a bishop in 1968. Later, he was
appointed to serve in Rome and assumed
“the role of secretary of the Congregation
for the Sacraments and Divine Worship.
Later, in 1980, he was sent as apostolic nun-
cio to Spain where he twice welcomed my
venerated predecessor John Paul II on pas-
toral visits.”
He was elevated to the College of Cardi-
nals in 1985.
Cardinal Innocenti held the following po-
sitions at the Vatican: prefect of the Congre-
gation for the Clergy, president of the Pon-
tifical Commission for the Cultural Patri-
mony of the Church and of the Pontifical
Commission “Ecclesia Dei.”
Referring to Cardinal Innocenti’s episco-
pal motto, “Lucem spero fide,” Pope Benedict
concluded his homily by expressing the de-
sire that “faith and hope may give way to
the greatest of all truths, the charity which
will never end.” (CNA)
lombo, Oswald Gomis, will deliver
the opening address tomorrow.
At a press conference, Arch-
bishop Ranjith explained that
“the celebration of the liturgy be-
comes true living out of our faith.
Liturgy is the key for any church
renewal. What you celebrate is
what you believe—’lex orandi, lex
credendi’ and what we believe de-
pends on how we will live—’lex
orandi, lex credendi, lex vivendi. ‘“
“The Constitution on the Sacred
Liturgy Sacrosanctum Concilium
gives us the guidelines to the cel-
ebration of sacred liturgy. In the
introduction of the ‘Sacrosanctum
Concilium’ it says ‘This sacred
larly cogent reasons for under-
taking the reform and promotion
of the liturgy.”
The liturgical congress (the
second of its kind, after the one
held in Ghana in Africa) will con-
clude in the morning of Septem-
ber 21 with a solemn Mass pre-
sided over by Cardinal Arinze at
the Santa Lucia cathedral in
Kotahena, Colombo. “We hope,”
Archbishop Ranjith says, “that
these liturgy conventions in dif-
ferent regions and continents
will become a source of closer
communication and dialogue
between the Holy Father and the
continents.” (AsiaNews)

Islamic leader: it is permissible

Pontiff denies claim 1962 missal is a regression
Calls liturgy a living, developing reality
EN ROUTE TO PARIS, September 12, 2008—An allowance for the
celebration of Mass according to the 1962 Missal is in no way a return
to the past, but rather an expression of pastoral concern, says Benedict
XVI.
The Pope affirmed this today en route to France; he gave a brief
press conference on the plane, answering four questions previously
submitted by the journalists selected to be in the press corps accom-
panying the Holy Father.
The Pontiff said it is “groundless” to fear that “Summorum
Pontificum”—which opened the way for a wider celebration of the
Mass according to the 1962 Missal—is a regression.
“This ‘motu proprio’ is simply an act of tolerance, with a pastoral
objective, for people who have been formed in this liturgy, who love
it, know it and want to live with this liturgy,” he said. “It is a small
group, given that it presupposes a formation in Latin, a formation in
a certain culture. But it seems to me a normal demand of faith and
pastoral concern for a bishop of our Church to have love and toler-
ance for these people and permit them to live with this liturgy.”
“There is no opposition whatsoever between the liturgy renewed
by the Second Vatican Council and this liturgy,” Benedict XVI contin-
ued. “Each day, the Council fathers celebrated Mass according to this
old rite and, at the same time, have conceived a natural development
for the liturgy in all of this century, since the liturgy is a living reality
that develops and that conserves its identity in its development.”
“Therefore, there are certainly distinct accents, but a fundamental
identity that excludes a contradiction, an opposition between the
renewed liturgy and the preceding liturgy,” the Pope affirmed. “I
think that there is the possibility of mutual enrichment. It’s clear that
the renewed liturgy is the ordinary liturgy of our times.”
Encountering the Mother
Previously, the Holy Father answered a question about secularism
and the lay state.
“It seems evident to me that laicism is not in contradiction with the
faith,” the Pontiff said. “I would even say that it is a fruit of the faith,
since the Christian faith was, from the beginning, a universal reli-
gion and therefore, did not identify itself with a state but was present
in all states.
“Politics, the state, were not a religion, but a profane reality with a
specific mission, and both should be mutually open.”
Another question gave Benedict XVI the chance to confess his love
for France: “I love France, the great French culture, and above all,
clearly, the great cathedrals, as well as the great French art, great
theology.”
Lastly, the Pope spoke of the principal motive for his visit: the
150th anniversary of the apparitions of the Virgin Mary at Lourdes.
He noted that the liturgical feast of the visionary, St. Bernadette, is
also his birthday. “For this reason, I feel very close to this little saint,
this little child, pure, humble, who spoke with the Virgin,” he said.
“To encounter this reality, this presence of the Virgin in our era, to
see the footsteps of this little youth who was a friend of the Virgin,
and on the other hand, to encounter the Virgin, her mother, is on the
other hand a very important event for me.
“Naturally, we’re not going to find miracles. I am going to en-
counter the love of the Mother, which is the true healing for all
sorrows and to be in solidarity with those who suffer, in the love of
the Mother.”
Upon his arrival to Paris, Benedict XVI was greeted by the pealing
of the bells of the churches. A smiling President Nicolas Sarkozy
received him at the airport, introducing the Pope to members of his
family; the two also exchanged gifts.
This was followed by the Pope’s address in the Elysee’s great hall
of celebrations to members of the government, parliamentarians
and bishops. (Zenit)
to kill the owners of ‘immoral’
television channels
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, September 13, 2008—If satellite television chan-
nels broadcast “immoral” programs, it is “permissible to kill” their
owners and editors, because they are violating the rigid norms on
customs and morality established by Islam. This is affirmed by the
sheikh Salih Ibn al-Luhaydan, the most authoritative judge on the
Saudi court, according to whom certain “diabolical” entertainment
programs can foster “debauchery” among their viewers.
With the spread of satellite television channels, the Arab world has
seen a rapid increase in broadcasters capable of transmitting their
signals to the entire region of the Middle East, where there are watched
by millions of Muslims each day. For this reason, religious leaders are
carefully following the popularity of the programs, and are evaluat-
ing them carefully in regard to the values of Islam.
The sheik expressed the fatwa in response to a question from a
listener during a radio broadcast. In the Arab world, religious leaders
frequently use radio, television, or websites to express views or judg-
ments on the most disparate aspects of daily life. In this case, the lis-
tener was asking how appropriate it is to broadcast programs show-
ing “scantily” dressed women during the holy month of Ramadan.
Salih Ibn al-Luhaydan’s blunt and disturbing reply was that “some
broadcasts are diabolical”, and the owners are just as “guilty” as those
who watch this trash TV. He also added that “it is permissible to kill”
if there are no other means or punishments to stop this “devilry”.
Already in the past, the 79-year-old religious leader had drawn at-
tention with his “sentences”, including his favorable view of the Sau-
dis who want to join the Islamic fundamentalists in their fight against
the Americans in Iraq. This new fatwa could even strike the Saudi
royal family: one of the most popular Arab television channels is
Rotana, which broadcasts music films and videos and is owned by
Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal.
The Saudi billionaire was recently named the 13th richest man in the
world by Forbes, and the programs broadcast on his television chan-
nel are not always in line with the rigid and austere style imposed by
Islamic precepts. (AsiaNews)
 CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 19
September 15 - 28, 2008 News Features A3

Filipino seafarers prone to

exploitation, says CBCP officials
FILIPINO seafarers are prone to exploitation not only abroad but
even within domestic shipping companies. This was one of the rev-
elations made during a news/public affairs program Veritas Metro
last September 13 in preparation for the 13th National Seafarers Day
scheduled on Sunday, September 28.
Fr. Edwin Corros, executive secretary of the CBCP’s Episcopal Com-
mission on Migrant and Itinerant People said government statistics
revealed 1,077,623 Filipinos left for overseas work last year. He said
migration only proves the country faces economic difficulties.
“One would not leave the comfort of his home to work abroad if
there are jobs with decent wages in the country,” Fr. Corros said.
Veteran seafarer Capt. Remigio Zamora said his Norwegian part-
ners have remained optimistic Filipino nautical and marine engi-
neering graduates would continue to man their ships, mostly inter-
ocean chemical tankers.
“They have launched scholarship programs to get the best among
high school seniors for college education at Daniel B. Lacson Mari-
time College in Bacolod City where college students have no other
obligation but to study well,” Zamora said.
He added they extend allowances and stipends during their aca-
demic and apprenticeship along with cash incentives should they
excel during their formal training.
Captain Michael Cuanzon, a former consultant of CHED and PRC
on maritime education said while there are many training facilities
and maritime schools in the Philippines, most have instructors who
lack the proper credentials to teach sensitive subjects.
“There are even schools and potential employers who require
managerial training from fresh graduates which are all unnecessary,”
Cuanzon said. He added should the government fail to address these
concerns other countries may slip past the country as the world’s top
supplier of highly-qualified seafarers.
Cuanzon, who started working as seafarer since 1949 said today’s
maritime schools could not provide facilities for apprenticeship and
maritime cadets have to pay just to be accommodated in the country’s
shipping companies which include Sulpicio Lines, Super Ferry among
others.
He added there are 9,000 graduates yearly from the country’s mari-
time schools but not all can find jobs because of stiff competition.
Zamora said of the many applicants who see him at his office very
few are taken in. “Of almost a hundred applicants, you’d be lucky to
find one or two good applicants,” he added.
“Exploitation is not only happening abroad because it also hap-
pens in the Philippines,” Zamora added.
Both Captains Zamora and Cuanzon said Filipino seafarers ought
to be aware of their rights so as not to be subjected to exploitation by
unscrupulous employers. Both attested Norwegians have been the
best partners to Filipinos in inter-ocean tankers and cargo ships.
Fr. Corros said the Catholic Church is aware of the problems faced
by migrants.
“The recent consultation on migration held in Manila last month
was attended by 18 Catholic bishops’ conferences in Asia because the
church recognizes it as the region’s most important issue,” he added.
Fr. Corros called on the Catholic faithful to join this year’s 13th
National Seafarers Day at the Quirino Grandstand, Luneta on Sun-
day, September 28 from 8:00 -10:00 a.m. for the Memorial Service at
Manila Bay and the traditional parade, Eucharistic celebration and
awarding ceremonies set to begin at 2 p.m. (Melo M. Acuña)

Reproductive Health Bill to Church matches

ruin people’s health, warns condom ads with
Archbishop Cruz
THE controversial Reproductive bill. This is apparently because the government disregard pub- country come in hideous form.
pro-life DVDs
Health Bill 5043 will ruin the such approval will see for them- lic morals, then the families and “This is why fetuses are disturb-
health of the people, said selves a brisk sale of their prod- country are in big trouble respec- ingly found here and there, some
Lingayen-Dagupan Archbishop ucts, a joyful raking in of prof- tively. This is the standing les- of them shamefully thrown at
Oscar Cruz. its,” Cruz, a professor of Canon son of history.” garbage dumps or simply left be-
“The bill will lead to the imple- Law said. The bill promotes use of con- hind in different unlikely places.”
mentation of an immoral It is rather hard to ascertain that traceptives that are contrary to The bill entitled, “An Act pro-
policy—a proposed synthetic ar- big corporations really consider Catholic Church’s teaching. viding for a National Policy on
tificial contraceptives eventually the welfare of the poor. “Neither Church authorities across the na- Reproductive Health, Respon-
designed to ruin health as it are they really motivated by tion are spearheading advocacy sible Parenthood and Population
slants the idea of responsible par- their desire to promote national movement against the passage of Development, and for other Pur-
enthood to issues of depopula- development, nor are they fun- the bill. According to them, the poses,” is intrinsically harmful to
tion, which proponents claim damentally concerned with the bill that allows contraceptives life, family and society, Cruz said
will result to progress among un- health of people. Instead, it is will necessarily entails abortion. earlier.
derdeveloped countries like ‘business as usual’ which at times “Contraception and abortion The bill that claims to control
ours,” he said in his blog http:// can be gross and cruel,” he said. are intimate partners to the ex- population is a myth, the prelate
www.ovc.blogspot.com. The bill is immoral, he stressed tent of being twins at times—not- said. “But no matter how ‘safe’ or
Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales watches a video entitled S.A.F.E.
The lawmakers are to start the saying, “No human act, no legis- withstanding all convictions, ‘protective’ artificial contracep- Aboard: Subtle Attacks against the Family Explained, produced by the Ministry for
plenary debates next week with lative bill, no executive function, pretensions and arguments to the tive drugs and devises are adver- Family and Life of the Archdiocese of Manila.
Albay Representative Edcel no judicial work is over and contrary,” Cruz warned. tised, everything is altogether
Lagman, the bill’s principal au- above morality. Morality is nei- “What is the use of mandating false nor reasonable,” Cruz ADVERTISEMENTS promoting artificial family planning has
thor and sponsor supported by ther irrelevant in politics, not in- a contraception bill when abor- stressed. found a match from its major opponent, the Roman Catholic
others. different in a secular society. Ir- tion is already prevalent? Can the The Church also plans to gather Church.
“The multi-national companies respective of the race, color and pro-contraception bill actually a million signatures against the The Archdiocese of Manila’s Ministry for Family and Life has
manufacturing contraceptive creed of those concerned, the eradicate abortion?” he asked. reproductive health bill and produced a digital video disc (DVD) aimed at raising awareness
drugs and devices must be look- moment individuals fool around He said that it is a matter of present them to Congress. about issues affecting family and life.
ing forward to the passage of the with private morals, the moment bemoaned fact abortions in the (Santosh Digal) The seven DVD series, entitled S.A.F.E Aboard: Attacks against
the Family and Explained, is part of the Church’s effort to sup-
port the family amidst the “challenges of the modern times.”
Clergy urged to take cue from St. Paul’s The DVD sets tackle issues about demography; New Age
sprituality; sex education; the “truth and meaning of human sexu-
ality”; violence and pornography in the mass media; the Gospel
life as paradigm for priesthood of Life; and marriage and family in God’s Plan.
Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales said all the
said topics were discussed by professionals and experts in their
ON the occasion of the Pauline Year of St. Paul, the Apostle, Rome- Sedes Sapientiae International Seminary and study at the Pontifical respective fields.
based international seminary Rector addressed priests from five semi- University of the Holy Cross in Rome. All those, he said, were conceptualized to help families be-
naries to follow the conversion of St. Paul as a paradigm in priestly The Pontifical University of the Holy Cross is an institution set up come “a visible sign of truth and love and recognize the values
life. by the Holy See. It was started in 1984 by Opus Dei, with the aim of which are written in human nature itself and are therefore com-
Pope Benedict XVII declared June 28, 2008-June 29, 2009, the Year of offering the universal Church an effective instrument for formation mon to all humanity.”
St. Paul the Apostle to mark bi-millennium of the birth of St. Paul. and research. It was born in the heart Rome and is open to priests, “These are principles not derived from a particular confession
“We have just concluded a two-week long visit of Monsignor seminarians, religious and lay people, both men and women, from of faith alone but from the application of a truth respectful of the
Pedro Huidobro, the former Rector of the Sedes Sapientiae Interna- dioceses all over the world. rights of each human being,” said Rosales.
tional Seminary (Seat of Wisdom), Rome, in the various seminaries The University offers an ongoing formation both to its academic “May I highly recommend that each family, diocese, parish
in the Philippines (San Pablo, Tarlac, Palo, Sorsogon, and Lipa) staff to students, with a particular focus on topics of current interest. priest, seminary, catechist, schools, religious men and women,
where graduates of that international seminary are now working,” The ratio of academic staff to students in one to nine. Most of the worker in the family life ministry and indeed any searching
Opus Dei Fr. Mickey Cardenas, director of Theological Centrum, members of the academic staff hold degrees from both secular and individual be equipped with this indispensable catechetical tool,”
told CBCP News. ecclesiastical universities. he added.
Monsignor Huidobro gave conferences taking off from St. Paul The University grants a degree in Sacred Theology specializing in The DVD sets were launched on Monday at the height of the
and his experience of conversion as a paradigm of the response of a Dogmatic Theology, Moral Theology, Spiritual Theology, History intensifying debate against a pending reproductive health bill
seminarian to the Lord’s calling and the important role of conver- of the Church, Liturgical Theology or Biblical Theology. that pushes artificial contraception to control population growth.
sion in the response to the vocation and the fidelity of the priest, said Priest scholars, on the other hand, may stay in one of these resi- The educational materials cost P1,500 each and can be ordered
Fr. Mickey. dences: Collegio Ecclesiastico Internazionale Tiberinum—Torre Rosa, through email at familyandlifeministry@yahoo.com . (Roy
Seminarians from various dioceses of the Philippines stay at the Mater Christi and Pontificio Collegio Filippino. (CBCPNews) Lagarde)

CBCP, PBS to make low-cost bibles available to poor families

A NATIONWIDE biblical cam-
paign may yet put a copy of the
bible in the home of every Fili-
pino family.
Dubbed “May They Be One”,
the campaign is a five-year na-
tionwide undertaking meant to
encourage Filipinos to read and
live the Scriptures that would ef-
fect transformation in the lives of
the faithful and the country in
general.
The drive being spearheaded
by the Episcopal Commission for
Biblical Apostolate (ECBA) of the
Catholic Bishops’ Conference of
the Philippines (CBCP) and the
Philippine Bible Society (PBS)
with the involvement of other
churches will make available
low-cost or free bibles to ordi-
nary people, especially poor
families.
Inspired by the upcoming Gen-
eral Assembly of the Synod of
Bishops on the Word of God in
Rome this October which carries
the theme “The Word of God in
the Life and Mission of the
Church”, both ECBA and PBS are
grabbing the chance to put Bibles
in every home, parish and com-
munity all over the country
through the bible project.
The “May They Be One” cam-
paign highlights unity, “since
unity is vital for making the
Word of God accessible, under-
standable, respected and lived.”
The campaign slogan, also a
take from John 17:21 is an invita-
tion for everyone to live in unity
so vital in achieving national
transformation.
Cardinal Walter Kasper, Presi-
dent of the Pontifical Council for
Promoting Christian Unity has
voiced out his support for the bib-
lical endeavor.
In a letter sent to ECBA Cardi-
nal Kasper noted that the com-
mon undertaking of the Catholic
Church and the PBS already mir-
rors a sign of oneness among Fili-
pino Christians.
“It also reflects the trust and
common effort to promote to-
gether the values of the Gospel,
and to be guided by the unifying
power of the Sacred Scripture and
indeed by the very words of
Christ himself that all his dis-
ciples ‘may be one’” (Jn 17:21) he
said.
CBCP President and Jaro Arch-
bishop Angel Lagdameo has also
endorsed the campaign saying
that the endeavor will give a push
to Pope Benedict’s call “to a
greater love for, and interaction
with, the Sacred Scriptures.”
The project aims to raise funds
to make 5 million bibles acces-
sible to Filipino families at a sub-
sidized price of P50 each over a
five-year period.
The ECBA-endorsed Basic
Ecclesial Community Bible
(BEC) is currently sold at P165
per copy.
A launching Mass to be pre-
sided by Papal Nuncio Edward
Joseph Adams with other bish-
ops will be held at the Metropoli-
tan Cathedral on September 30
to jumpstart the campaign.
Meanwhile, Manila Archbishop
Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales has
sent a directive to all parish
priests and Religious men and
women of the archdiocese urg-
ing all to participate in the
launching mass which will be
preceded by an Ecumenical
prayer meeting. (Pinky
Barrientos, FSP)
 CBCP Monitor
A4 Opinion Vol. 12 No. 19
September 15 - 28, 2008

EDITORIAL

Christianizing economics
THE Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association of the
Philippines (KCFAPI) celebrated its 50th anniversary last
September 13. A mutual benefit association, it was
established in 1958 to serve primarily its members through
an exclusive insurance system that has grown from a
thirty-thousand-peso start-up to a multibillion-peso
enterprise that it is today.
A Jesuit priest, Fr. George J. Willmann, started this
with the intention of concretizing the social teachings of
the Church right from one of the most volatile segment of
the temporal order—the business community. Aside from
the institution of an insurance system, he also inspired the
founding of some 200 or so credit cooperatives in the 60s
nationwide.
Armed with Christian principles, KCFAPI has expanded
itself to even owning and operating banks, life and non-life
insurance companies, real estate ventures, among others.
Along the way, it has graduated over a hundred priests
scholars, a hundred more career professionals, various
charitable work, relief and rehabilitation programs to
calamity victims, and housing for the poor, to name but a
few.
But Christianizing economics has been one of its
trademarks. KCFAPI has retroactively and progressively
heeded the call of the Pastoral Exhortation on Philippine
Economy issued by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of
the Philippines (CBCP) in 1998, which states: “While the
entire Church (clergy, religious, and laity) has the mission
to renew every aspect of human life in accordance with
the Gospel, it is the specific vocation of lay people to
renew the temporal order, including economics. Hence
they have to renew economic life with the values of the
Gospel and of the Kingdom of God, which are authentically
human values, such as integrity, justice, equity, service,
preferential option for the poor, responsible stewardship. Oscar V. Cruz, DD
“They fulfill their vocation best by assuming a prophetic
role in word and deed. In word, for example by encouraging
business leaders to adhere to the principles that truly Views and Points Essential medicine
promote the economic good of all (such as those that we
have explained above); in deed, by faithfully practicing in
their own business life those same principles, courageously “HORMONAL contraceptives, intrauterine de- its authors and proponents call their oppo- come no less than “essential medicines,”
resisting the pressures of an unbalanced economic structure vices, injectables and other reproductive health nents nothing more than a bunch of liars, an would there be also “essential medicines,”
to succumb to its evil demands.” products and supplies shall be considered under ignoramus breed. to cure the cancer, tumor and other sicknesses
the category of essential medicines and supplies In reality, however, there is something contraceptive drugs and devices cause espe-
Surprisingly, however, Christianizing the social or temporal which shall form part of the National Drug Formu- downright misleading if not exceptionally cially in women who are the standard tar-
order is not popular among the popularly religious. lary and the same shall be included in the pur- sinister in the Bill that qualifies hormonal gets as well as usual victims of artificial con-
chase of essential medicines and supplies of all na- contraceptives, intrauterine devices, traception?
tional and local hospitals and other government injectibles and other similar items as noth- Since depopulation is the honest to good-
The evils of rampant gambling health units.”
Thus says the “Reproductive Health Bill,”
ing less than “essential medicines.” The fol-
lowing more relevant observations are in
ness basic intention and ultimate finality of
the Bill, here is a list of unsolicited advice its
which in truth exactly means the opposite conjunction with such an exalted qualifying authors and proponents might want to con-
THE moral evil of such large-scale, systematic gambling of the proposed legislation that is categori- attribution of contraceptive drugs and de- sider instead:
is not simply because it is illegal. It is truly immoral under cally against human reproduction. The right vices: See to it there is less and less rice in the
the circumstances that it operates and in the evil effects and truthful title of the pursued law should First, since when have contraceptives be- market.
that it has spawned. be simply “Depopulation Bill,” instead of come “medicine”? Medical products are Urge manufacturers to continue raising the
the long winded title of “An Act Providing meant to cure a sickness. Since when is con- prices of their products and at the same time,
Today, gambling is, indeed, a social cancer, gradually and for a National Policy on Reproductive traception categorized as a sickness that counter all moves to raise salaries and wages.
surely destroying a great many of our positive social and Health, Responsible Parenthood and Popu- should be prevented or cured? Make sure that honest to goodness essen-
moral values. It is a social scourge that is debilitating even lation development, and for other Pur- Second, since when have contraceptives tial medicines are either not available or too
our moral sense, our ability to distinguish right from poses.” become “essential”? Something is essential costly to buy.
wrong. It is deeply infecting us as a people. If the Bill were only true to what its if without it, nothing is even possible. This Apparently, the over-all result of all these
kilometric titles says, then alone and by it- would mean that without contraceptives, moves would be more deaths and less popu-
Rampant gambling, particularly in its form of jueteng, has self, the Bill would be enough to make the health would be impossible, sickness and lation—even without legalizing contracep-
become a way of life for many. People no longer care or Philippines a paradise and the Filipinos a death would be inevitable! tion, which can even waste billions of
dare to condemn it because: (a) no effective action blissful people. It is interesting to note that And finally, since contraceptives could be- people’s hard-earned money.
against gambling has ever been taken by our political and
police authorities, except through some token occasional
raids against small-time gambling operators; and (b) very Bp. Guillermo V. Afable, DD
powerful people operate gambling.
Pastoral Letter for
Yet, if we still have a modicum of moral sense, we have
to be appalled by the callousness of big-time gambling
operators, by the blatant openness with which they conduct
DADITAMA Vocation Month
their illegal operations, and by the shockingly huge amounts
of money that are involved. THE month of September is vocation month for the Archdiocese of munities and organizations, to have a special appreciation for Voca-
Davao and the Diocese of Digos. Allow me to share through this tions in the Church. The organization and animation of the parish
The truth is: The victims of gambling are the many column my pastoral letter on this occasion: vocation apostolate, the vocation clubs among the youth and chil-
thousands of credulous and generally poor people who My dear brothers priests, consecrated persons, and the lay faithful. dren must be a special concern and priority for all of you. With these
risk their hard earned incomes to face odds that are Peace be with you! vocation groups, we will form a broad network of prayer and sup-
heavily stacked against them. The situation is even Vocation Month port for vocations.
aggravated, according to popular belief, by the manipulation 1. The whole Church considers the pastoral work of promoting The late Pope John Paul II, in Pastores Dabo Vobis, says, “There is an
of winning numbers—a likely possibility, given the secrecy vocations as one of her vital ministries. During the month of Sep- urgent need, especially nowadays, for a more widespread and deeply
with which winning numbers are often determined. tember, it is customary for us here in the Diocese of Digos to high- felt conviction that all the members of the Church, without excep-
light the Pastoral Care of Vocations. We usually launch it the last tion, have the grace and responsibility to look after vocations.” (PDV,
The whole racket constitutes a systematic fleecing of the Sunday before September which falls this year on August 31, 2008. 41). Indeed, there is this urgency because of the continuing scarcity of
poor. Whether the victims are willing or not, the end result May I invite all of you to organize something together to launch priests and religious which create the most serious problem for the
is the same—objective exploitation of the poor by the this very important month-long celebration. I strongly suggest that faithful who are left without sufficient pastoral care that they de-
powerful. As in our economic system in general, so in you engage our youth and the children of your Parish, the School and serve in order to grow as mature Christians in the true Faith.
jueteng: the rich, powerful and apparently untouchable the small Christian communities, and your family so that they be-
operators get richer while thousands of poor bettors get come active subjects of this month long celebration. Our very own Pre-College Seminary
poorer. A situation which recalls the social evil condemned For the theme of this year’s celebration of vocation month, let us 4. The construction of a pre-college seminary is now being under-
by the prophet Amos: “They trample the heads of the continue to reflect on the theme of the 45th World Day of Prayer for taken. The late Bishop Generoso Camiña, PME was the initiator of
weak into the dust of the earth and they force the lowly out Vocations proposed last April by Pope Benedict XVI – “Vocations at this project and he himself had given its name—John Paul II Semi-
of the way” (Am. 2:7). the service of the Church on Mission.” nary. Last April 13, 2008 we had the groundbreaking rite of the con-
struction of this seminary.
Gambling / A7 Remember, be thankful and shine Spearheaded by an ad-hoc fundraising committee, we are now
2. The celebration of the vocation month is a special time for me to undertaking the raising of funds for this project. Different Church
remember all of you brother Priests, the Deacons and the Conse- groups, such as the Knights of Columbus, the CWL, the BCBP,
crated Persons, with joy and thanksgiving, for the witness of your Focolare, and DICLA, DMI have already undertaken some activities
ISSN 1908-2940 selfless love and dedication to the Mission entrusted to us all through as their participation. I have no doubt that soon the Parishes, GKKs
the Church and the particular ecclesial communities we belong to. and Catholic Schools will also find other ways and means to contrib-

CBCP Monitor
P r o ta g o n i s t of Tr u t h , Promoter of Peace
Vocation month is for you and me a special time to celebrate and
take pride in the awesome gift of the vocation to the priesthood and
the consecrated life. We are all beneficiaries of a special divine predi-
lection. Precisely because we are earthen vessels, let us continue to
be awed by the tremendous grace upon grace we all continue to
ute to this shared responsibility.

Vocation Ministry in the GKK (BEC)

5. It is not a surprise that many, if not all, of our priests and conse-
crated persons have the roots of their vocation during their initiation
Pedro C. Quitorio receive from the Father in Heaven. to Christian life in, with and through their GKK. I congratulate and
Editor-in-Chief During this month, we, priests and consecrated persons in this give thanks to these many GKKs who have sons and daughters in the
local Church, realize and rededicate ourselves to the pursuit of holi- priesthood and consecrated life. Your Christian community has en-
Pinky Barrientos, FSP Kris P. Bayos ness so that we become for all to behold, a “light of the world” and gendered these vocations. But do not stop when they finish their
Associate Editor Feature Editor a “salt of the earth.”. Let us consciously and intentionally pursue to initial formation. I ask you to carry on caring for and supporting
live and minister individually and collectively with integrity, trans- these vocations spiritually and materially.
Melo M. Acuña Rosalynn Garcia parency and accountability to God and the Church. Such a life wit- Every Sunday and Solemnities, when the GKK gather to celebrate
Managing Editor Marketing Supervisor ness cannot but edify and impress those whom God is calling. Let our the Word in the absence of the Priest, you always express in prayer
Dennis B. Dayao light shine. your hunger and longing for the Eucharist as the fitting way to
Ernani M. Ramos
LAYOUT BY LAURENCE JOHN R. MORALES

On-Line Editor Circulation Manager May you, our dear Seminarians and those in various stages of celebrate Sunday. You also express your longing for the Priest to
formation in the consecrated life, be ever faithful to your calling in come so that together with Him you may celebrate the Eucharist.
Roy Q. Lagarde Marcelita Dominguez the Church. Devote yourselves wholeheartedly to your initial for- Yes! You need the Eucharist and the Priest to preside over the cel-
News Editor Comptroller mation towards personal transformation and integration. May you ebration. Therefore, you must, make it your special duty to fervently
always remember with joy all those who sacrifice for you materially pray for vocations to the priesthood.
The CBCP Monitor is published fortnightly by the CBCP and spiritually – your families, formators, benefactors and Christian From now on, therefore, each time you come together for the Sun-
Communications Development Foundation, Inc., with
editorial and business of fices at 470 Gen. Luna St., communities and friends. day Celebration of the Word, you must pray together the Prayer for
Intramuros, Manila. P.O. Box 3601, 1076 MCPO. Vocations as an obligatory prayer.
Editorial: (063) 404-2182. Business: (063)404-1612. Parishes and Catholic Schools
Email: cbcpmonitor@cbcpworld.net 3. The Vocation Ministry is a special service the Parish Priests and We thank the parents
Website: www.cbcpworld.net/cbcpmonitor Catholic School Administrators share with me in the local church. To 6. Together with the special calling of your sons and daughters to
you is entrusted to organize, and form and animate, your own com- Daditama / A6
 CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 19
September 15 - 28, 2008
Opinion A5
Sr. Mary Pilar Verzosa, RGS
Urgently needed: Rev. Euly B. Belizar, SThD

Love Life persons with a passion By the Roadside

IN our mission to save mothers and babies
from abortion, to refute the myth of over-
population by the pro-contraception and ster-
ilization groups, and to promote responsible
use of sexuality, we are often referred to as
“fanatics”.
The criticism could be intimidating to pro-
lifers who want to be known for their open-
ness and compassion and do not want to ap-
pear as irrational zealots. But if we, pro-
lifers, are aiming to imitate the example of
Jesus, then we know that such accusations
sound very much what Jesus heard in the
cross before he died. What then do we have
to fear?
Passion is an intense desire to give gener-
ously no matter what the cost. This kind of
zeal gives us energy and courage to take our
stand. Pro-abortion, pro-contraception and
pro-population control groups know that if
they can convince us that we are “wrong” to
be enthusiastic about our cause, that we are
just “fanatics”, they would have defeated us.
As pro-lifers we are seen as strange to the
for life
modern eye and out of touch with the times,
that we are not practical, that we do not see
the poverty of our people because they have
too many children, and because we acknowl-
edge the truth that abortion, contraception,
and euthanasia are evil and a violation of the
laws of God.
In answer to our critique’s bias – very of-
ten published in broadsheet newspapers or
discussed in television paid talk shows, we
must remember two things. First, it is not
bad to be “extreme”. We appreciate people
who are extremely skilled or virtuous, con-
sistent and totally there. So if I am extremely
pro-life, God must be pleased, right?
Secondly, passion does not mean irratio-
nality. Our critics are equally “fanatical” in
their own stand – using whatever means they
can get and pouring in millions of pesos/
dollars to accomplish their goals and pro-
grams – usually population control, contra-
ceptive imperialism, and a continuing rape
of our natural resources for the use of rich
countries.
Jose B. Lugay
“Zeal” according to St. Thomas Aquinas,
“is a necessary effect of love”. And it is love
to which we are called. And it is with love
that we persistently lobby in Congress to
The Seven Capital
ensure that the so-called Reproductive Health
Bills will not be approved—spending our af- Sins in the life of the
ternoons from 4 to 8 p.m. in the Plenary Hall
of the House of Representatives, giving our
support to the pro-life oriented representa-
Church and society
tives, going from one congressman’s office
to another to provide them with informa-
I WAS reading an article whose author remarked that in the
tion on the evils of contraception and steril-
ization, as well the agenda of the population word ‘sin’, the letter ‘I’ is in the middle and that in itself is
very telling of what sin’s nature is, namely, the rule of the
controllers.
So if you have a passion for life, join us in ‘ego’ or the ‘self’ in our lives.. Touché, I said to myself.
Who’s to dispute that? Who’s to doubt that, indeed, sin is
whatever way you can to save our country
from the devastating effects of abortion, con- making myself my own center instead of God and of his
will. It struck me how we rarely look at sin that way and
traception, sterilization and the population
control culture of death. yet how true. We follow what we want, what we will and in
the process end up shortchanging ourselves because, blind
Call the Pro-life office at 911-2911/ 422-8877 to
refer people who need counseling, to invite speak- that we are, we end up falling into the ditch of self-glorifi-
cation that, in turn, makes us self-destruct. St. Augustine
ers for pro-life talks, or to get pro-life materials.
Our Fax is 421-7147, email:life@prolife.org.ph and once distinguished two kinds of love: first, the love of God
to the point of disregarding self; and, second, love of self to
our website: www.prolife.org.ph
the point of disregarding God. The first produces saints;
the second produces sin and sinners out of us.
But first, we must call a spade a spade. I mean, sin is sin

The Laiko Week and that’s how we must call it and not something else. I
totally agree with Pope John Paul II who once said: “There

celebration
THE Laiko brochure recently distributed to all parishes in Luzon,
Visayas and Mindanao has the catchy phrase printed in its back
cover flap: ANG PAGBABAGO AY NASA KAMAY MO. This intro-
duces the theme for the 2008 LAIKO WEEK celebration which reads:
“The Laity: Primary Agents of Change Towards Honesty and Integ-
rity for Good Governance.”
Yearly, we celebrate the feast of our first Filipino saint, San Lorenzo
Ruiz which falls on September 28. Our first and only saint is a lay
person. Isn’t it fit that San Lorenzo a martyr to our faith becomes
the laity’s model? Blessed Pedro Calungsod, another lay martyr is
also honored during the Laity Week Celebration. Bishop Reyes
stresses that the Laity is called to holiness and the proof of this is
our first consecrated saint and the upcoming one are lay persons.
All dioceses in the Philippines are expected to hold activities
during the seven-day celebration. The objectives are a) to discuss
the theme and its implications to Christian life, b) to give value to
the lay vocation that brings about change in society through his life
and love of Christ, c) for the laity to achieve through prayer and
resolve, the practice of good governance with honesty and integ-
rity in his work in the secular world.
The celebration will start in the Diocese of Novaliches on Sep-
tember 21 and the culmination will be a 3-day celebration in Iloilo
co-sponsored by the Ecclesiastical Province of Jaro. This will be
the first time that the Sangguniang Laiko ng Pilipinas sponsors a
Laiko Week celebration outside Metro Manila. Thanks to Arch-
bishop Angel N. Lagdameo who accepted the invitation of Bishop
Gabriel Reyes, National Director of LAIKO, this will be the start
of working together to make a change in the governance of this
country.
To us actively working as members of the Advocacy for Good
Governance under the Sangguniang Laiko ng Pilipinas, this move
of Bishop Reyes to involve others outside Manila is highly motiva-
Nicolo F. Bernardo
Laiko Lampstand
tional. It encourages us, the Bids and Awards Committee (BAC)
Observers, to redouble our efforts in following the guidelines of
the procurement law for the “prevention of corruption”. By our
behavior and moral conviction as a disciple of Christ, we may in-
spire the rest of the BAC and Technical Working Group members of
government institutions to do their jobs with honesty and integ-
rity.
On the first day, September 29 will be the arrival of the
participants from the Ecclesiastical Province of Jaro and the regis-
tration. The opening mass will be celebrated by Archbishop Angel
N. Lagdameo. While the fellowship gives the participants the op-
portunity to know each other in the afternoon, the day closes with
the Situationer presentation by the host, the Local Church in West-
ern Visayas. The second day opens with a Eucharistic mass to be
celebrated by Bishop Guillermo Afable. The organizers saw it fit to
orient the participants on the papal encyclical, Christifidelis Laici that
defines the role of the laity in the modern world. During the whole
morning and part of the afternoon, the participants will hear direct
from Governor Ed Panlilio of Pampanga who will share his first
hand experience of governance in a “jueteng-inculturated” prov-
ince. The sharing of Fr. Carmelo Diola of Dilaab Foundation, Cebu
and Fr. Albert Alejo, S.J., Davao, well known for his “EHEM”,
“AHA” conscientization training modules, and the sharing of expe-
riences in the bidding process by LAIKO Observers from Manila
and Western Visayas are intended to generate discussions since
most participants can relate the similarity of their experiences with
these sharings.
The results of the small group discussions and the resolu-
tions on that day will set the course of LAIKO’s future activities.
Like Neil Armstrong’s remark, my wish is that this LAIKO Week
celebration will be “a small step for man but a giant leap for man-
kind”, that is, a giant step for good governance in the Philippines!
is only one thing more dangerous than sin—the murder of
a man’s sense of sin.” The mood of the times is expressed by
Anthony Mastroem when he wrote: “No one steals
anymore…they simply lift something. No one lies
anymore…they just misrepresent the facts. No one com-
mits adultery anymore…they just fool around. No one kills
an unborn baby…they simply terminate a pregnancy.” What
are we actually doing, he asks. We do a “clever, if dishonest
way, of candy-coating the reality of sin.” We might add
that no one says a law as “anti-life” anymore; they just call
it “a Reproductive Health Bill”. Once I was aghast to hear
one of the songs of the ever famous singer idolized even by
our idols, Barbra Streisand, singing a song that said: “There
are no mistakes, only lessons to learn…” That’s what our
world is saying about sin, in case we’re not listening. There
are no sins anymore, just ‘politically incorrect’ words.
Second, contrary to obituary claims, the news of the de-
mise of sin, in particular of the seven capital sins, is greatly
exaggerated, to borrow an expression from Mark Twain.
As a matter of fact, they represent very real things, and not
just abstract propositions, in our own personal and social
lives. They can, in addition, be manifest in ordinary situa-
tions of daily living and beyond. What is eating and drink-
ing too much but gluttony? What is wanting to satisfy our
sexual appetites outside of moral or social mores through
ways and means that abound on our city streets and glori-
fied in lewd shows but lust? What is wanting more and
more money and profits by taking advantage of other
people’s needs during a crisis but greed? What is trying to
kill a political or social enemy during or after an electoral
contest but being ruled by anger? What is feeling bad that
some guest or friend you know has more money or more
properties than you do but envy? What is trying to be supe-
rior to others in terms of wealth and power but pride? What
is the laziness to do one’s duties and responsibilities for
God and neighbor but sloth? In the Church and society we
see so many of these manifestations as a matter of course.
So few are so rich while so many are so poor. Public funds
are stolen through graft and corruption. Sexual predators
can be found in people’s homes, in public or private offices,

The Orig 100% Pinoy sadly even in church premises, in the labyrinthine world of

Lifeguard
“AMIHAN gazed upon the bamboo reed
planted by Bathala and she heard voices
coming from inside the bamboo. ‘Oh North
Wind! Please let us out!’ the voices said.
She pecked the reed once, then twice. All
of a sudden, the bamboo cracked and slit
open. Out came two human beings: one
was a male and the other was a female.
Amihan named the man ‘Malakas’ and the
Woman ‘Maganda.’”
This story, familiar to everyone as the
Filipino version of Adam and Eve, is here
quoted from the Supreme Court case of
Silverio v. Republic. In 2007, Rommel
Silverio, a transsexual, was forbidden to
change his sex identity to have a same-sex
“marriage.”
Perhaps mindful of the principle of sepa-
ration of church and state, the ponente , Jus-
tice Corona, did not only quote the Gen-
esis story, but cited this pre-Hispanic ac-
count for a local import of the ideal union
of a man and a woman .
If you will examine our early stories on
romance and marriage, you may notice ar-
chetypal values —simplistically dismissed
now as “religious”—that are arguably
part of common human heritage. Scholas-
tics attribute these to “human nature,”
while postmodernists talk of “the human
condition.” But whatever one may call
these, they point to shared human expecta-
tions, ideals, and aspirations that cross cul-
ture and time.
When you want to know the real values
of a people, you look into their primordial
love stories and the language these used.
There you will see all the sacrifices, hero-
ism, honor, virtues, and deepest wishes
dreamed of to fulfill the happy ending of
living together—man and woman—ever
after.
Everywhere you go, even from polyga-
mous societies, the most celebrated ro-
mances surprisingly have played on a one-
man-is-to-one-woman ideal. Among the
Muslims, you have Shah Jahan and Mumtaz
Mahal (of the famous Taj Mahal—the larg-
est monument for love). Among the Hin-
dus, you have Rama and Sita. Anything
outside the one-man-for-one-woman set-
up tend to harbor feelings of jealousy and
hate rather than love, such as in the Greek
stories of Zeus and Hera—still and again
indicating common human expectations.
Sure there are a lot of stories here and
there about polygamous and same-sex re-
lationships. Sure they have existed before
and will always. But whether they figure
into an original design and central ideal
that an entire culture has identified itself
without tension or debate is unavailing (just
like in Plato’s story of the origin of the
three sexes). Even in the story of the “po-
lygamous” Patriarchs, the problem of fa-
voritism among wives and sons crop up.
Again, one man for one woman. This
model is obvious in our creation myths,
and stories of god-men who settled to live
with one partner, multiply, and lived hap-
pily thereafter. So besides the Tagalog
Malakas and Maganda , we have the Visayan
Sicalac and Sicavay, the Ifugao Uvigan and
Bugan, the Bagobo Toglai and Toglibon, the
Ilocano Lam-Ang and Ines , etc. They tell of
how things were from the beginning,
which are still fact. For nothing can change
the fact that it only takes one man and one
woman to start a family—and make “a whole
new world” of their own, so the Disney
song goes.
The only exception may be the Bilaans
who tell of a god Melu who formed two
men from his dead skin. They were first
alone in all earth. But here’s the point: they
eventually felt unhappy that Melu made
women out of their hair and dry skin.
Rituals and Records
While cultural stories are indicative of
the ideal sexual union, historical records
can be good source of actual marital and
sexual behaviors of a culture. For the Phil-
ippines however, the accounts of coloniz-
ers may not be as helpful.
These records have been the sport of so-
called sexual liberty ideologues today if
only to prove that the friars have repressed
Filipinos for so long. The problem with
this scholarship is that they take to faith
contradicting colonizers’ accounts, some
of which purposely demonized the natives
to justify their abuses. Some have been
proven to be hoaxes, such as the Codes of
Calantiao and Maragtas.
An example is Joseph de Laporte’s La
Voyageur Francois : “The women of this
country are of an ugliness which makes
the practice of chastity easy.” The advisory
is self-contradictory. On one hand he says,
“There was open profession and a free ex-
ercise of (sexual) incontinence,” yet “adul-
tery is treated like homicide” and “po-
lygamy is not allowed at all.”
the internet and even in cellular communications.
Third, there are things we can not and things we can do
about the seven capital sins. First, what can we not do?
None too obvious. We cannot overcome them—that is, solely
by our own efforts. We need God’s help. Which is what we
Virgins or vamps? Jose Rizal was defen-
obtain from our generous God when we turn to him, in
sive. In his Annotations to Morga, he made
humble faith, through prayer, the sacraments and gospel
references to “religious annals of the early
living in our communities. Second, what can we do? Princi-
missions filled with countless instances
pally, the Church teaches us, by practicing—again with the
where native maidens chose death than
help of God’s grace readily available through his Spirit act-
sacrifice their chastity to the Spanish.”
ing in us—each sin’s corresponding virtue. For example, to
Perhaps Rizal’s version is closer to veri-
overcome lust we must practice chastity; to overcome glut-
fication. We can survey our indigenous
tony we must practice temperance; to overcome sloth we
communities whose cultural values remain
must practice diligence; to overcome greed we must prac-
intact. Their tribal taboos, premarital eti-
tice charity and generosity; to overcome envy we must prac-
quette, marriage arrangements, dowries,
tice kindness; to overcome anger we must practice patience;
long-term courtships, laborious
to overcome pride we must practice humility. Sounds like
paninilbihan systems, and even pre-ceremo-
‘Mission Impossible’ in today’s world, you say? Not when
nial “love nests” (the Igorots’ ulog) are
we see it in the saints (those of yesterday and today) and
enough statement that sex must be con-
especially in Mama Mary, again Holy Mother Church points
templated in the context of a faithful mar-
out to prove her point.
riage and procreation.
Does Mama Mary play a role, at all, as we struggle to
Since major parts of the Philippines be-
overcome these various manifestations of ‘enslavement’ we
fore Spain had been part of the Muslim
experience due to sin? For non-Catholics this question could
Madjapahit empire, abortion must have
sound perplexing but it’s most natural for us Catholics who
also been taboo. The fear of the
look up to the Mother of Jesus as our own Mother too (as
manananggal (half-bodied bat-like vam-
the witness of John the Evangelist in Jn 19:25-27 could prove
pire) who sucks babies from the wombs of
too hard to resist). I honestly admit that it’s so easy to just
their mothers and the tiyan-anak or tiyanak
parrot answers to this question by rote. But we must con-
(vengeful dead babies) could only speak
stantly remember Mama Mary is not God (doesn’t she in-
of cultural mores against abortion and in-
sist she is just the Lord’s “lowly servant” and “handmaid”?)
fanticide.
nor is she our Savior who alone can save us from sin (which
Polygamy was allowed but could be un-
is the role Jesus Christ her Son).
common, at least in major parts of the coun-
And yet the love of Mama Mary so abounds that we can
try, according to 1605 chronicler Fr. Pedro
actually hold on to two powers of her love that she gener-
Chirino. He denied polygamous practices
ously shares with us, the Scriptures being all Christians’
in Manila, Mindoro, Marinduque, Panay,
common source of testimony. First the power of her ex-
and other islands. Chirino wrote that he
ample. In Mary we see almost visibly the virtues of chas-
“had lived in the Filipinas for almost 10
tity, humility, temperance, diligence, kindness, patience and
years” before he even encountered a Don
charity. All we need is to read and meditate carefully on all
Juan with multiple partners.
the available accounts of her in the New Testament (Luke,
In his Filipino Indigenous Ethnic Commu-
John, the Acts of the Apostles, to cite a few instances) and to
nities, anthropologist F. Landa Jocano also
prayerfully assimilate the mysteries of her life into ours.
notes that in tribes where divorce was per-
The second power of Mary is the power of her prayers
mitted, there were checks and censures. Di-
and intercession. We see this power at work in the Wed-
vorce until now is hardly acceptable to
ding at Cana. It is she who brings to Jesus’ attention the
some groups such as the Agtas, and “even
need of the couple: “They have no more wine”. To Jesus
if allowed is rarely practiced. Couples tend
Mama Mary continually brings our need for the right vir-
to be loyal and faithful to one another.”
tues in life to overcome the many enslavements due to the
seven capital sins. To Jesus she says, looking over our situ-
The Lingo
ation with motherly care: “They are getting farther away
The Buwan ng Wika may be over, but it is
from the joy of salvation”. I know of a friend who had been
not too late to point further that our na-
worried for a long time over a rather wayward nephew.
tional language also reflects our under-
But after turning to Mama Mary through the rosary, he was
standing of the ideal union not only as uni-
surprised when his problematic nephew became a member
tive between a man and a woman, but es-
of a Catholic renewal movement and since then has mended
sentially procreative.
his ways and is now very active in church and evangelical
According to UP Sociologist Bernadette
life. God still transforms people through the power of Mama
Abrera in a feature in Sharing in the City,
Mary’s prayers. There’s no doubt, he’ll transform capital
Filipinos call the family a “mag-anak , ”
sins into the Spirit’s saving capital.
stressing the procreative mandate— MAG-
Lifeguard / A7
 CBCP Monitor
A6 Local News Vol. 12 No. 19
September 15 - 28, 2008

Bishop condemns Baylon

belies death
civilian killings threats
DAVAO CITY, September 3,
2008–Masbate Bishop Joel Baylon
has denied reports that he is re-
ceiving death threats from armed
rebels because of his campaign
for land reform in his province.
Baylon said the report was not
true and only formed part of
hearsays as it came out while he
was still in Sydney, Australia last
July for the World Youth Day
(WYD) celebration.
He was even quoted in a re-
port by Davao Catholic Herald
saying that the reported death
threats came after four farmers
have been killed.
Last July, Alberto Yusi, a peas-
ant leader in Masbate was report-
edly killed by armed men. He
Photo courtesy of Keith Bacongco was the fourth victim in land-re-
lated deaths in the province for
MANILA, September 10, 2008— A Catholic bishop has strongly con- MILF.
less than a year.
demned a military air strike on Monday that allegedly killed at least “It should have been a surgical operation against the men of Umra Other victims were Salvador
six civilians in Maguindanao. Kato and Bravo. And whenever there are civilians in their pursuit of
“Boyet” Vale, Jr., a farmer-leader
Civilian casualties are an emotive issue for religious leaders, many lawless elements, they should be very careful,” the bishop said. from Brgy. Royroy, Batuan,
of whom feel government forces take too little care when launching Bagaforo said terms of engagement between the two parties should
Masbate who was leading a
air strikes. also be made especially when it is to minimize civilian casualties “if group of farmers petitioning for
Cotabato Auxiliary Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo said the civilian not zero.”
agrarian reform; Mark Anthony
casualties in the clash between the military and the Moro Islamic Clashes between the two opposing camps broke out again on “Butchoy” Vale, an elected
Liberation Front (MILF) cannot be justified as being collateral dam- Monday after almost a week of lull in the firefights coinciding with
Barangay Captain and farmer-
ages. the beginning of the Muslims’ holy month of Ramadan. leader of Samahang Magsasaka
“Death is never okay, especially [when] caused by violence... the The renewed hostilities in the towns of Datu Piang and Datu Saudi
ng Hacienda Batuan in Masbate;
collateral damages are unarmed and innocent people killed. It’s not Ampatuan also resulted to the death of at least 16 MILF rebels. and Deolito “Julie” Empas, a
acceptable,” Bagaforo said. The Arroyo government has already ordered the investigation on
farmer leader in the Uy land-
He said civilian casualties could have been avoided had the mili- the incident in order to have an account on what transpired in the
tary took extra precaution before the air assault aimed at renegade recent collision. (Roy Lagarde)
holding and a duly elected
kagawad.
Julie Empas is the farmer
leader who replaced Felizardo
Benitez as the President of
Samahan ng Magsasaka sa Sitio
Centro, who, it can be recalled,
was also slain by armed men. He
was abducted in the very same
place where Benitez was killed.
Reports said that those who
were killed were warned not to
pursue of their desire to own the
land that they till. The perpetra-
tors were all known in the com-
munity as members of the New
People’s Army (NPA), the armed
wing of the Communist Party of
the Philippines (CPP).
Meanwhile, Baylon said that his
campaign for land reform in his
province would still continue.
He admitted that he once
helped Vale solve the problem
of owning their lands following
the implementation of the Com-
prehensive Agrarian Reform Pro-
gram (CARP).
Baylon also dismissed the re-
ports that Vale was involved in
stealing cattle in their area say-
ing, “Vale’s alleged involvement
in stealing is not yet confirmed
even up to now.” (Mark S.
Ventura)

Reproductive Health / A1

On the other hand, those who threw their
support for the population control measure
are Ronaldo Zamora (San Juan), Ruffy Biazon
(Muntinlupa), Juan Edgardo Angara (Aurora),
Ann York Bondoc (4rth district, Pampanga),
Edgardo Salvador, Samuel Dangwa (Benguet),
Teddy Casiño (Bayan-Muna), Danilo Suarez
(3rd district, Quezon), Manuel Mamba (3rd
district, Cagayan), Amante Edilmiro (2nd dis-
trict, Agusan del Norte), Abdullah Dimaporo
(2nd district, Lanao del Norte), Dan Fernandez
(1st district, Laguna), Mujic Hataman (Anak
Mindanao), Roque Ablan (1st district, Ilocos
Norte), Liza Maza (Gabriela), Riza
Hontiveros-Baraquel (Akbayan), Philip
Pichay (1st district, Surigao del Sur), Teddy
Locsin (1st district, Makati) Mauricio
Domogan (Baguio), Satur Ocampo (Bayan
Muna), Abraham Mitra (2nd district,
Palawan), Jose Lacson (3rd district, Negros
Occidental), Edcel Lagman (1st district,
Albay), Jeannette Garin (1st district, Iloilo),
Marc Douglas Cagas (1st district, Davao del
Sur) and Darlene Custodio (1st district, South
Cotabato).
Nine lawmakers, however, were still un-
decided at the time of the survey namely
Jocelyn Limkaichong, Lorenzo Tañada (4rth
district, Quezon), Raul Daza (1st district,
Northern Samar), Manuel Abiao, Teofisto
Guingona III (2nd district, Bukidnon), Rodolfo
Plaza (Agusan del Sur), Mark Cojuangco (5th
district, Pangasinan), Arthur Defensor (3rd
district, Iloilo) and Ernesto Pablo (APEC).
Protracted fight
Episcopal Commission on Family and Life
Executive Secretary, Fr. Melvin Castro said
the ongoing tussle between Church and law-
makers on the issue of reproductive health
bill is a “protracted one and may take some
time.”
Speaking at the jointly organized forum
of CBCPNews/Catholic Media Network
on September 9, Castro said the coming
events that will unfold in the “battle”
against Reproductive Health bill is worth
watching.
“We are taking the word of the bill’s prin-
cipal authors they could muster enough sup-
port and that remains to be seen,’ the soft-
spoken executive director said.
He said the Catholic Church launched its
own signature campaign during the 40th an-
niversary of Humane Vitae to show the gen-
eral public’s rejection of the controversial bill
but its proponents also launched their own
campaign to show a significant number of
adherents.
He expressed surprise that the bill’s au-
thors still continue to ask for more funds to
curb their perceived population growth rate
“when in fact a top government population
expert admitted in a congressional hearing
that the country’s population growth rate has
gone down several years ago.”
Signature campaigns
The signature campaign to raise awareness
and escalate popular support against the pro-
posed Reproductive Health Bill is snowballing.
Cebu Archbishop Ricardo Cardinal Vidal
has urged Catholics to intensify the signa-
ture drive against the proposed Reproduc-
tive Health (RH) Bill.
Celebrating Mass on the Blessed Mother’s
nativity last September 8, Vidal cautioned
people not to be influenced by the RH Bill
that goes against the Church’s teaching.
The prelate also instructed his priests in
the 142 parishes of the Cebu Archdiocese to
endorse the people to support the Church’s
signature campaign.
Parishioners have also started to pray for
the conversion of all authors and supporters
of the controversial Reproductive Health Bill
2008 (RHB).
The parishioners in many parishes agreed
to include in the daily morning offering prayed
by the congregation that “all authors and sup-
porters of the RHB be converted in their think-
ing and that all legislators use their positions
to promote life, marriage, family and human
sexuality in line with the teachings of the
Catholic Church,” said Robert De la Cruz of
the Manila Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady
of Loreto in Sampaloc, Manila.
Fr. Joel Jason, director of Ministry for Fam-
ily and Life, told CBCP News that the Church
hopes to get a million signatures against the
reproductive health bill that is anti-life and
promotes abortion. (With reports from Melo
Acuña and Santosh Digal)
CA ruling vs. Lozada
upsets Church leaders
MANILA, September 15, 2008—
Catholic leaders criticized a
court decision rejecting an ap-
peal for protection by national
broadband network project
whistleblower Rodolfo “Jun”
Lozada.
In a case monitored nation-
ally, the Court of Appeals ruled
on September 15 against
Lozada’s petition for writ of
amparo, citing the lack of proof
that his life, liberty and secu-
rity were threatened by govern-
ment officials.
Lozada claimed that he was
abducted by government secu-
rity officials on his return from
Hong Kong on Feb. 5 to testify
before the Senate inquiry on the
NBN deal with China’s ZTE
Corp.
The influential Association of
Major Religious Superiors of the
Philippines (AMRSP) was dis-
appointed with the decision but
said it was already expected.
Sister Mary John Mananzan,
AMRSP co-chairperson, said the
CA ruling go against its man-
date to protect the rights of the
people.
“Of course, the CA will not
admit the truth because to ad-
mit that Lozada was abducted
by government people is also
admitting that the government
is a danger to its very own
people,” Mananzan said.
Considering the institution’s
“reputation of being politi-
cized,” the nun said the deci-
sion did not surprise them at
all.
“Extra-judicial killings and
forced disappearances are be-
ing perpetrated by the govern-
ment including the case of
Lozada, even if the CA denies
that,” she said.
But Mananzan said they will
continue pursuing the truth
against alleged government
abuses despite the recent set-
back.
“The search for truth is an
abiding commitment,” she
added. (CBCPNews)

Casino / A1 Daditama / A4
nos in the country could draw creation of jobs and so forth in an so forth, is manifest. “Now if investments here in our few, therefore ask the Lord of the
country are not that good, it’s not the Priesthood and Consecrated
more businessmen and tourists. area, one has to build in the cost. Favila said the country should harvest to send laborers to his
life, you Parents have also been
Having such investments, he “I don’t know if they really be more “open-minded” and en- because of the lack of gambling harvest”. (Luke 10:2) The voca-
but due to our distrusted govern- especially chosen to care and
said, will definitely boost the thought about that proposal. courage foreign businessmen to tion and mission is the vocation
form those He has chosen You to
country’s financial growth and the People will not benefit anything invest in casinos in the country ment,” Cruz said in a separate in- and mission of the Lord, not ours.
terview over Church-run Radyo share the awesome privilege and
tourism industry. from that kind of plan. I’m even much like progressive countries John Paul II in his Apostolic Ex-
gift of this special vocation in the
The archbishop of Lingayen- puzzled on where he (Favila) got like Singapore and Malaysia. Veritas. hortation on the Bishops,
The senior prelate reiterated that Church. Alleluia! Be ever grate-
Dagupan, anti-gambling crusader that kind of idea,” Cruz said. But the archbishop said although Pastores Gregis, emphasized that
ful and generous to offer whole-
Oscar Cruz, has long been claim- The country’s Catholic bishops’ the said nations are in much better the CBCP had already issued a state- “the force which inspires and forms
ment condemning the patronage of heartedly your children to God
ing that gambling caused human leadership is against an increase in states than the Philippines, there re- vocations is primarily prayer” (PG#
and the Church, expecting no re-
pollution. gambling, and against the build- mains one large factor that cannot gambling, whether legal or not. 48) this is, therefore, the first pri-
The chairman of the People’s ward and return for your sacri-
He said the utterly extraordi- ing of further casinos. For them, be found in the latter nation. ority in the pastoral care of voca-
fice. The Church is ever grateful
nary claims about gambling as a it’s not just a religious issue, but “Malaysia and Singapore are Crusade Against Gambling said tions.
the bishops are unanimously to all of you our dear parents. I
means for regeneration simply concerned damage to families. both progressive nations because If there are not enough voca-
ask you to continue caring for and
obscure the fact of cost. Cruz said gambling industry is they have a good government. In- against the promotion of gambling tions in our diocese, we should
as it promotes wrong values such supporting your sons and daugh-
Cruz said gambling is “socially profoundly costly, its negative vestors come to them because they encourage our priests, the reli-
ters in the priesthood and conse-
costly” and whatever is said about impact in terms of promoting ad- know their governments are not as laziness and greed for others’ gious, and the laity to be more
money. (CBCPNews) crated life even after they finish
supposedly financial benefits, the diction, destroying family life and corrupt,” said Cruz. fervent in praying for vocations.
their initial formation
With humility and love, pray “Vocations need a vast network
Ramadhan / A1 of people who pray fervently to
for vocations in your own family.
I can only fast and pray,” said Picardal. Ishmael and Jacob. The God whom Jesus (Isa He also pray that the MILF leadership will Support families and communi- the Lord” (PG# 48) Let us; there-
In the 1980’s, the late Bishop Benny Tudtud ibn Maryam, al Masih, al Nabi) calls Father. show convincing proof that it is investigating ties with vocations, as a sign of fore, include in our daily indi-
of the Prelature of Marawi and the Mindanao- The same God that Muhammad (peace be upon and intend to punish the local MILF command- your great appreciation for this vidual prayers the prayer for vo-
Sulu Pastoral Conference introduced the him) worshipped.” ers responsible for the atrocities. great gift and responsibility and cations. Together, on the First
“Duyog Ramadhan.” Picardal is also praying that the recent “May they not make the signing of the MOA- your solidarity for them. There are Sunday of the month let the
“Duyog Ramadhan was an invitation for armed conflict will not worsen the Christian- AD a precondition for peace negotiations to Church groups especially devoted prayer for vocations be done in
Christians to reach out to the Muslims during Muslim relations. continue. May they become aware that major- to the vocation ministry such as all the Masses in the Churches and
the Ramadhan in order to engage in a dia- He also prayed that President Gloria Ar- ity of Filipinos cannot accept the dismember- the Diocesan Vocation Movement Oratories.
logue of life and faith. It was during the height royo will have more patience and not to al- ment of the nation as the cost for peace,” he and the Parish Vocation 8. Just like the Apostles gath-
of the armed conflict between the Moro Na- low the attacks which the Moro Islamic Lib- said. Apostolate and others. You are es- ered around the Virgin Mary, let
tional Liberation Front (MNLF) and the gov- eration Front (MILF) leadership denied order- “I pray that Christians and Muslims and pecially invited to support and us gather with her too, and learn
ernment” said Picardal, adding: “Today, I am ing, to scuttle the peace negotiations. Lumads learn to accept that the land and all its join these groups. from her how to pray to the Holy
doing the same. As I fast, I also remember in a “May she (Arroyo) not make impossible pre- resources belong to God and should be shared Spirit for a new springtime of
special way the Muslims who have become conditions (such as disarmament, demobili- by all “ by this generation and the next,” added Pray for Vocations vocations in our Diocese, alive
close to me “ my friends and partners in dia- zation or integration) for talks to continue. Picardal. 7. Our Lord Jesus Christ Him- with faith and love and unity that
logue whom I consider my “relatives,” not by These are supposed to be discussed at the later “There is enough for everyone’s need, but self admonished us to pray for is necessary for the fulfillment of
blood, but by a common faith in the One God phase of the negotiations once agreement has not for everyone’s greed,” he ended. (Mark S. workers to his harvest. “The har- our mission—Adveniat Regnum
“ the God of Abraham (Ibrahim), Isaac, been reached,” said Picardal. Ventura) vest is rich but the laborers are Tuum.

Landslides / A1
Masara in Maco town last September 6
and 7, had left 29 others injured and six
others missing.
Experts have long recognized the area
as prone to landslides, and the bishop
said local officials should have done
something about this in the past.
“The tragedy could have been avoided
had the authorities acted decisively and
forcefully evacuated the residents to safer
areas,” Manlapaz said.
Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardi-
nal Rosales, for his part, put the blame on
the vast mining operations in the area.
Rosales, a known advocate for envi-
ronment protection, said the tragedy
could have been prevented if only the
government has managed to regulate the
prevalent mining operations there.
“Kung yan lamang ay pinakialamanan ng
ating government at ni-legalize... e kaso hindi.
To each is own dun e. I have seen it myself.
So, kaninong kasalanan? Noon pa dapat
pinakialamanan,” he said.
Compostela Valley province is known
for gold mining operations, both large
and small scale, and almost all commu-
nities there rely on mining as a prime
source of livelihood.
Environmentalists claimed that min-
ing is one of the most probable cause of
the sudden erosion of the soil that bur-
ied houses and residents.
Rosales, also a former bishop of
Malaybalay in Bukidnon province, ex-
plained that the Church is not against
mining per se but is very particular on
the responsibility of all stakeholders.
“The Church wants to observe the con-
ditions of safety not only for the work-
ers who are going underneath, [but also]
the safety of the village where it is, [and
the] safety of the environment. Kaya ang
Simbahan masyado magmatyag e,” he said.
(CBCPNews)
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 19
September 15 - 28, 2008 Diocesan News A7
News Briefs Stone-throwing incident
Cardinal’s historical marker unveiled
GUAGUA, Pampanga—After the celebration of the 100th birth an-
niversary of the late Rufino Cardinal Santos last month, the Na-
mars Peñafrancia festivities
tional Historical Institute (NHI) officially unveiled here on Sept.7
the historical marker to honor the achievements and contributions
to society of the Kapampangan cardinal. Cardinal Santos was the
first Filipino Cardinal of the Roman Catholic Church. The statue
was placed on the facade of the Rufino Cardinal Santos Catholic
Center at the Immaculate Conception Parish here. (CBCPNews)

Pinoys in Kuwait mark Peñafrancia

MANILA—They may be far from home, but Filipino Peñafrancia
devotees in Kuwait still marked the feast of Our Lady of
Peñafrancia in Kuwait City on Sept. 18 with a procession of Marian
images. There are about 10 images of Our Lady of Peñafrancia in
churches and private residences all over Kuwait, where regular
prayer meetings are held. (CBCPNews)

Church sets pro-life rally on Oct. 11

OZAMIZ City—In a bid to reiterate its commitment to life and its
opposition to the reproductive health bill, the Ozamiz archdio-
cese will hold a pro-life rally on Oct. 11. This is part of the
archdiocese’s “intensified” campaign against the bill now pend-
© http://www.flickr.com/photos/alvinlo74/1389687025/

ing before the House of Representatives. The archdiocese opted

to lead the rally after Archbishop Jesus Dosado declared Septem-
ber as “Pro-Life Month.” (Wendell Talibong)

Church body backs 30-year-old cap for migrant

Pinoy domestics
MANILA—The CBCP’s Episcopal Commission on Migrants and
Itinerant People is supporting the proposed re-imposition of
higher age limits for overseas Filipino domestic helpers. Fr. Edwin
Corros, ECMI executive secretary said they are “in favor” of re-
imposing the 30-year-old cap on household service workers (HSW)
to protect them from abuse and exploitation. (CBCPNews)

Church-run radio station helps displaced Mindanao

folk NAGA CITY, September 15, 2008—The Academy taking hostaged of school chil- authorities that they will no longer be al-
OZAMIS City—A Catholic-run radio station in Ozamiz City has Traslacion procession held afternoon of Sep- dren. lowed to carry the image of the Patroness,
launched a program to help families in Lanao del Norte province tember 12 to commence the beginning of this The unidentified hostage-taker was later deviating from the three century-old tradi-
who had been displaced by clashes between government and the year’s Peñafrancia Festival in honor of the overpowered by police operatives and found tion.
MILF forces. Church-run radio station dxDD AM/FM launched Bicol region’s patroness was marked by un- to be a mental patient. “What happened during the traslacion pro-
“Operation Tabang” to help the evacuees. The station serves the expected incidents that church and civil au- The series of violent incidents prompted cession last September 12 were isolated inci-
ecclesiastical province of Ozamiz that includes Dipolog, Pagadian, thorities vowed to address to prevent any Caceres Archbishop Leonardo Z. Legaspi, OP dents,” said Jimmy Vapor, an elder of Couples
Iligan and Marawi. (Wendell Talibong) recurrence. to consider alternative options and imple- for Christ in Naga City.
Police records showed that a rumble in- ment innovations in coordination with gov- There were proposals to have the vener-
Bishop to govt, MILF: Clarify basic principles, then volving teenagers resulted into injuries and ernment authorities to assure the safety of ated image placed on a truck and Philippine
destruction of property. the thousands of Penafrancia devotees. Army elements will carry the image to avert
talk
A stone-throwing incident led to a devo- Legaspi is considering to implement radi- any problem. This will effect an orderly trans-
COTABATO City—A Catholic prelate urged government and the
tee suffering a heart attack and a priest get- cal changes in the conduct of future religious fer of the image of Our Lady of Peñafrancia
MILF to accept first two fundamental principles before they con-
ting a head injury. The episode which oc- activities. from the Basilica Minore to the Naga Metro-
tinue talking about peace in Mindanao. Cotabato archbishop Or-
curred while the traslacion was in progress The maintenance of peace and order is the politan Cathedral and vice versa.
lando Quevedo issued the advice as a “contribution” to back-
also damaged the glass cover of the revered primordial concern of both government and “It is important that the faithful heed the
door channeling between the two parties. He said the first prin-
icon of the Divino Rostro. church authorities. advice of local church authorities on how the
ciple is the national sovereignty and territorial integrity of the
Earlier in the day, while participants from As of press time, an effective crowd con- activities of the festivities will be conducted
Philippines as enshrined in the Philippine Constitution.
the different parts of the Bicol Region were trol strategy is being prepared to keep order so the solemnity of the occasion maybe pre-
(CBCPNews)
beginning to converge in the city to join the during processions and other religious ac- served,” Fr. Jay Jacinto, the Archbishop’s Sec-
traditional event in the afternoon, a gun- tivities. retary said in an interview over Radio
Bishop calls for justice for victims of Digos bombing
wielding man fired shots as he comman- Meanwhile, devotees and voyadores re- Mindanao Network’s DwNX-Naga. (Elmer
DIGOS City—Even as he grieved for the victims of a bus bomb- deered a bus chartered by La Consolacion acted to initial announcements from church Abad)
ing here on Sept. 1, Bishop Guillermo Afable called on authorities
to bring the perpetrators to justice. Afable condemned the bomb-
ing as a “heinous crime against innocent men, women and chil-
dren,” adding it cannot justify whatever motive the perpetrators
may have. (Mark Ventura)

Ateneo to host lecture series on Zamboanga

Church-State partnership lauded
Church’s history
ZAMBOANGA City—The Ateneo de Zamboanga University
(AdZU) will hold a lecture series and a photo exhibit dubbed as
“La Parroquia: A History of the Catholic Church in Zamboanga,
at Nueva Segovia Jubilee
1635 – Present.” Three lecture dates are set for this year: Septem- VIGAN CITY, September 9,
ber 18 (pre-diocesan period), October 8 (diocesan period) and 2008—Local government officials
November 17 (archdiocesan period). All three lectures will be have lauded the church-state part-
held at the Carlos Dominguez Conference Hall, La Purisima Cam- nership at the Commemorative
pus from 2:00 to 4:30 PM. (Santosh Digal) Rites marking the 250th year of
transfer of the See of Nueva
Marian feast ushers series of Marian fiestas in Segovia from Lal-lo, Cagayan to
Vigan on September 7 in Vigan
Nueva Segovia
City.
VIGAN City—The feast of Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia’s pa-
The brief ceremony held in
troness, Our Lady of Charity popularly known as Apo Caridad front of the Arzobispado of
held last Sept. 8 ushered a series of monthly Marian fiestas for the
Nueva Segovia in Vigan also cel-
devout Ilocanos. The feast of Our Lady of the Rosary also known ebrated the elevation of then
as La Naval will be celebrated on Oct. 7 followed by the feast of La
Villa Fernandina into a Ciudad,
Milagrosa, or Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal on November now the City of Vigan, by virtue
and La Purisima Concepcion, feast of Our Lady of the Immaculate
of a Papal Bull in 1758.
Conception, on Dec. 8. (Fran Quitoriano) Lady Mayors Eva Marie
Medina of Vigan City and Olivia
Liturgy meeting deepens theology of sacramentals, Pascual of Lal-lo Medina spoke
blessings of the unity brought about by the
TAGUM City— The recently concluded 23rd annual national
meeting of diocesan directors of liturgy has discussed the essence
of the theology of sacramentals and blessings. The Diocese of Gambling / A4
Tagum hosted the 4-day event which also tackled sensitive topics
on exorcism, the ministers of sacramentals and blessings were For such social and moral evil
also discussed. (Mark Ventura) to exist, can graft and
corruption be far behind?
Archdiocese of Davao steps up vocation campaign
DAVAO City—The Archdiocese of Davao through the Fraternity The popular belief has never
of the Diocesan Clergy (FDCD) has stepped up its efforts to cam- been disproved that protection
paign for vocations. FDCD’s animator Fr. Leonardo Dublan said money is handed down in
that their campaign will focus on high school students and en- liberal proportions to police,
courage them to consider priesthood as their vocation. The FDCD military, and political officials.
has conducted a vocation campaign in Holy Cross of Sasa last It is even said that the control
Sept. 9 as part of their annual gathering in St. Joseph, the Worker and operation of gambling are
Parish in Sasa, this city. (Mark Ventura) in the hands of some
politicians. If what many
Prelate reminds all re sincerity in pursuing peace people say are true, and there
MATI City—Bishop Patricio Alo has reminded the people regard- seems to be no solid reason to
ing the needed sincerity especially in making agreements that disagree, then we have in the
aims to pursue peace in Mindanao. Alo said, “In all agreements North a social plague of
and dialogues, there is one thing important—sincerity, being true
unrivalled scale.
to oneself.” He added works are futile if there are underlying
personal interests especially in pursuing agreements on peace. The fact that gambling
(Mark Ventura) operations employ some
thousands of people in the
Cardinal Vidal seeks more signatures vs RH bill whole North has become an
CEBU City—Cebu archbishop Ricardo Cardinal Vidal threw his excuse for government
weight Wednesday behind a signature drive to oppose the repro- officials not to abolish
ductive health (RH) bill pending in Congress. Vidal cautioned gambling. They stop
people not to be influenced by the RH bill. He instructed his priests searching for alternative and
in 142 parishes of the Cebu Archdiocese to encourage the faithful to productive sources of
support the Church’s signature campaign. (Santosh Digal) employment.
Prelate urges to transform politics with the gospel Furthermore the popular
OZAMIZ CITY—Saying that the Gospel must be preach with all belief remains that jueteng
its social dimensions, Ozamiz Archbishop Jesus A. Dosado, CM profits serve as bottomless
has urged his flock to transform politics with the Gospel saying it “election war chests” from
is the duty of the laity to evangelize politics. (Wendell Talibong) which unaccountable
amounts of money are freely
jubilee, the common resolve of
church and state to improve
people’s lives, and the Church as
source of moral and spiritual
guidance.
Pascual described the transfer
as a great contribution to evan-
gelization by Nueva Segovia
whose seat was first established
in Lal-lo in 1595 as third suffragan
to Manila and later, transferred
to Vigan.
Archbishop Ernesto A. Salgado,
on behalf of Nueva Segovia,
thanked everyone especially the
Lord for the peaceful cooperation
of Church and government.
He likened the partnership of
church and state to railway tracks
carrying the people as one for the
withdrawn to support political
candidacies. Again, whether
true or not, such a belief
among ordinary people points
to the values that have grown
out of the vice of gambling. DAVAO CITY, September 10, 2008—The regional director of Catholic
Through jueteng and other
forms of rampant gambling,
values are distorted. Hard
work, rational reflection and
planning that are trademarks
of responsible human work
are substituted by
irresponsible risk-taking.
Laziness is promoted while
the dream of easy money
becomes an obsession. The
poor are exploited. Power
and money are used to
protect—as well as to enforce
submission to—the system.
The values of the Gospel and
of the Kingdom of God are
put aside for the sake of profit.
So long have we complained
about the disappearance of
such values as industry, thrift,
truth, honesty and integrity,
and justice.
— Make Yourselves a New
Heart and a New Spirit, A
Joint Pastoral Letter of
Northern Luzon Bishops,
1993
benefit of Nueva Segovia and Piat by her devotees from Nueva
Vigan. Segovia and Piat.
The September 7 festivities Among the activities spear-
were highlighted with a Eucha- headed by the city in this connec-
ristic Celebration concelebrated tion are the planting of 2,500 trees
by Archbishop Salgado and the for a healthier environment and
Nueva Segovia Clergy. It was at- the Launching of the Vigan
tended by an overflowing crowd Children’s InteractiveMuseum,
who had come for the jubilee BURIDEK, on September 8.
and the regular evening Sunday Buridek (Ilocano word for the
Mass and the devotees of Our youngest member of an Ilocano
Lady of Charity, Queen of family or symbolically, the
Ilocandia, whose feast falls on youngest member of society) is
the first Sunday of September the city’s effort to realize the pres-
each year. ervation and conservation of
The occasion was blessed by Ilocano history and heritage, par-
the presence of the pilgrim im- ticularly cultural and essential
age of Our Lady of the Visitation, human values for its future, the
Patroness of Cagayan, which had Ilocano children. (Fran C.
been brought in procession from Quitoriano)
CEAP regional director stresses
value of Catholic identity
Educational Association in the Philippines (CEAP) has stressed on the
need to strengthen the value of Catholic identity in academe today.
Fr. Danny Monta, CEAP regional director said students in Catholic
schools as well as teachers and administrators should always carry
with them the truest value of Catholic identity.
He added that “being the salt of the earth and the light of the
world” mark the identity of a true Catholic.
Being the salt of the earth, he continued, students must commit to
make Christ known to others through the best of their attitudes as
Catholics.
He also said that in order to concretize this, teachers and adminis-
trators of Catholic schools play an important role.
Monta said they are not just teachers and administrators but they
should also set as good examples to their students. (Mark S. Ventura)
Lifeguard / A5
anak ! The pro-life nature of the family was obvious to Filipinos
even before the first friar ever said “Be fertile and multiply!”
Incidentally, when Bernardo Villegas was arguing before the
1986 Constitutional Convention, whether or not a constitutional
prohibition on abortion was just a Spanish and religious import,
he explained that early Filipinos have a high sense of respect-
ability for bearing children. We already called pregnant women
“nagdadalang-tao,” .recognizing the humanity of the unborn: that
the fetus is already tao (human).
I could only agree with Jocano, who in an interview told me
that Filipino telenovelas and filmmakers today can better serve
the country’s strong family values if they would feature our own
lores based on our own language, instead of fabricating and dub-
bing from other cultures while clueless of our own.
 CBCP Monitor
A8 People, Facts & Places Vol. 12 No. 19
September 15 - 28, 2008

5th national pilgrimage

to Lipa prays for priests
THE bishops has urged the laity to storm the
heavens with prayers for the priests and the
religious.
This, according to Lipa Archbishop Ramon
Arguelles who made the call during the 5th
National Pilgrimage to Lipa in Batangas prov-
ince yesterday—a celebration attended by
thousands of pilgrims.
The pilgrimage is also in commemoration
of the 60th anniversary of the “appearance”
of the Blessed Virgin Mary to Sr. Teresita
“Teresing” Castillo of the Carmelite Con-
vent.
Sr. Teresing said that on Sept. 16, 1948, the
Blessed Mother told her that a statue be placed
He said that all priests need spiritual help
in order for them to live their own vocation
and mission in today’s world.
This year’s pilgrimage theme is “I am your
Mother (Towards a Prayerful, Committed,
Contemplative, Spirit-filled Marian Fam-
ily).”
Friday’s activities ended at the Carmel
Monastery with a concelebrated Mass led by
Manila archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal
Rosales as main officiator.
Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philip-
pines president Angel Lagdameo delivered
the homily.
After the Holy Mass the crowning of the
© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media

where she appeared. On Sept. 26, she declared
that she was “Mary, Mediatrix of All Grace.”
Arguelles said prayers to rid the Catholic
Church of grave situations involving priests
would also be of great help.
“Priests aren’t perfect, and they need help
to live their vocation and mission in today’s
world,” Arguelles said.
image of the Our Lady of Mediatrix of All
Grace was presided by Cebu Archbishop
Ricardo Cardinal Vidal.
Gov. Santos-Recto also recited the prayer
of consecration to Jesus through Mary while
Arroyo ended the coronation rite of the im-
age of the Virgin by reciting a prayer of con-
secration for the country. (CBCPNews)

Liturgy course for priests slated

PAUL VI Institute of Liturgy, with
the Episcopal Commission on
Catechesis and Catholic Educa-
tion (ECCCE), will offer an ex-
tension program in Luzon in the
service of the clergy, according
to Fr. Arnel Takata, an official of
the Institute.
“The program will be a good
occasion for priests to update
themselves and renew their zest
for the ministry. It is a way to
refresh one’s ministry of
catechesis. A good catechist must
be a good liturgist,” said Balanga
Bishop Socrates Villegas.
The topics include theology of
the liturgy, liturgy of the
Hours, Holy Orders and Lay
Ministries, Questions on Pen-
ance and Marriage, History of
the Liturgy, Sacraments of the
Christian Initiation, Liturgical
Year, Sacramentals and Bless-
ings, Celebrations of the Eucha-
rist, Liturgical inculturation,
Liturgical environment and
Music.
This extension program will
follow basically the program of
liturgical study and community
life observed at Paul VI Institute
in Malaybalay. It will be offered
in three modules consisting of
two weeks.
“We hope that priests will take
advantage of this opportunity to
help us ordained ministers in
continuous growth and develop-
ment as promoters and presiders
of the worship of God and sanc-
tification of our people,” he
added.
Program organizers are
ECCCE chairman and Balanga
Bishop Socrates B. Villegas, Fr.
Anscar J. Chupungco, OSB and Fr.
Genaro O. Diwa, at Bataan
Techno Park in Morong, Bataan.
Dates are Module A (Oct 6-17,
Markings
INSTALLED. Most Reverend Jo-
2008), Module B (January 12-23, seph Amangi Nacua, OFM Capu-
2009) and Module C (June 15-26, chin as new Bishop of Ilagan in a
2009). Eucharistic celebration led by the
Apostolic Nuncio in the Philippines,
Those who are interested for
Most Rev. Edward Joseph Adams
the course may contact Fr. at the St. Ferdinand Cathedral in
Chupungco at Ilagan, Isabela, September 9, 2008.
anscarjc@yahoo.com or Fr. In his brief remarks, Archbishop
Takata at Adams said there are three essen-
tials to one’s Episcopal ministry, that
arnel_takata@yahoo.com or of “being a model of Christian liv-
09178067374. (Santosh Digal) ing, successor of Peter and bridge
of love and one who unifies.”

Dominican run
Laoag Bishop and bishop-emeri-
tus of Ilagan Sergio Utleg delivered

7th Asian the homily. He reminded Bishop

Nacua of five important elements
to make his ministry successful, “Know your people and be mindful of

Conference of hospital to mark

your clergy, be holy, sow seeds, you’ll have joy and agony, lose and find
yourself.” Bishop Nacua expressed his gratitude to God for his new
ministry as he assured his clergy and flock of his love and support. The
event was attended by bishops, priests and religious women of the

Religions for 60th anniversary

diocese and neighboring arch/dioceses.

Peace slated in THE San Pedro Hospital (SPH)

owned and operated by the
health care service in mercy
and compassion.
CELEBRATED. Ricky Cañet
Montanez, perpetual profession of
vows among the Augustinians of
the Assumption (Assumptionists);

Manila
THE 7th assembly of the Asian Conference of Religions for Peace
Dominican Sisters will cel-
ebrate its 60th anniversary in
the healing ministry this year.
The weeklong celebration
(ACRP) is scheduled for Oct. 17-21 in Manila. will start on September 25 with
More than 300 delegates from around 30 countries including a thanks-
China and North Korea are likely to attend the international
g i v i n g
event. mass and
The Dominican-run Pontifical University of Santo Tomas (UST) will culmi-
and the Interreligious Dialogue Commission of the Catholic Bish- nate on Oc-
ops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) are co-sponsoring the tober 1 son; deliver
gathering. with the
ACRP, founded in Singapore in 1976, seeks to promote under- t h e m e ,
standing among various religions in Asia and to build peace, “SPH, 60
justice and human dignity through cooperation, said Pakistani Years of
Supreme Court lawyer Nawaz Khan Marwat at a press state- Healing
ment. Ministry:
ACRP is the regional affiliate of the World Conference of Re- Reliving the Past with Grati-
ligions for Peace. It tries to blend spiritual values and social tude, Inspiring the Future.”
action, inspired by people such as Blessed Teresa of Calcutta and Part of the weeklong cel-
Mahatma Gandhi, national father of India, and others, said Rev- ebration are exhibits and ba-
erend Katsuji Suzuki, ACRP associate secretary general. zaars, free pap smear, free den-
The theme of the conference is “Peacemaking in Asia.” The tal services, free immuniza-
deliberations would help to come out with a declaration and a tion and deworming, skin and
list of concrete group actions toward peace, according to ARCP make-up workshops, work-
secretary general Sunggon Kim, a Korean professor of Buddhism. shop on how to lose, gain
He said corruption is rampant because politicians are not sin- weight through good nutri-
cere in putting into praxis the teaching of God, Buddha and their
tion, livelihood workshop,
religions. film viewing, jubilee walk,
Politicians need to widen their conscience so that politics would sportsfest, outing, homecom-
be deemed as a business, Marwat said. ing among others.
Catholic Bishop Deogracias Iniguez of Kalookan, vice chair- For 60 years now, SPH com-
man of the Episcopal Commission on Ecumenical Affairs and munity envisions persons ex-
Public Affairs, is part of the hosting team. (Santosh Digal) periencing the best quality
The community of health
workers also commit them-
selves to provide the best qual-
ity and compassionate health
care services in satisfying all
individuals
with rever-
ence and re-
spect of
their per-
quality sat-
isfying ser-
vices ex-
pected of a
training
health care
institution; to witness as a
community, the mercy and
compassion of a loving God in
the performance of individual
and communal responsibility.
The Dominican Sisters as
well as the entire SPH manage-
ment believes that its services
is part of the Church
Apostolate and they commit
themselves to provide the best
quality and compassionate
health care services within
ethical standards to promote
quality of life among
caregivers and a healthy envi-
ronment. (Mark S. Ventura)
August 23, 2008. A native of
Negros Occidental, Montanez fin-
ished his studies at the West
Visayas State University and taught
English in Assumption, Iloilo. He
stayed in Taize in 1996 as a youth
volunteer. His experience there
eventually led him to work as a
Teresian youth volunteer to the
Higaonons in Impasug-ong,
Bukidnon. Montanez joined the As-
sumption congregation in the United
States in July 2000. After complet-
ing the Pre-theology Program at
Assumption College in Worcester, Massachusetts, Montanez proceeded
to Santiago, Chile for his novitiate in 2003. He professed his first vows on
January 4, 2004. He is currently a theology student at the Loyola School
of Theology of Ateneo de Manila University. Montanez is the first Filipino
vocation of the Augustinians of the Assumption-a newly founded con-
gregation in the Philippines.
ORDAINED. Xavier C. Alpasa,
Francis D. Alvarez, Jason K. Dy,
Oliver G. Dy, Imram John, Ambrose
Simiyu Kituyi, Joseph Kiarie
Muruga, Frank Dennis B.
Savadera, Antonio Roberto G. Sian;
ordination to the Sacred Order of
Deacons among the Society of
Jesus (SJ); September 13, 2008.
The nine Jesuits were ordained by
Most Rev. Broderick S. Pabillo, DD,
Auxiliary Bishop of Manila at the
Church of the Gesu, Ateneo de
Manila University, Loyola Heights,
Quezon City.
CELEBRATED. Knights of Columbus
Fraternal Association of the Philip-
pines, Inc., (KCFAPI) 50th anniver-
sary of foundation, September 13,

Laity Week celebration highlights good governance
THE Council of the Laity of the ristic celebration at 5 p.m. on Sep-
Philippines (CLP) or tember 29 at St. Anne Parish in
Sangguniang Laiko ng Pilipinas Molo, Iloilo.
(LAIKO) is spearheading its an- Activities prior to the confer-
nual celebration of “Laity Week” ence proper include a welcome
with a two-day regional confer- ceremony and introduction to the
ence in Iloilo City on September history of Molo through viewing
29 until October 1. of exhibits at St. Anne Parish.
Themed “The Laity: Primary Resource speakers are Gov.
Agents of Change Towards Hon- “Among” Ed Panlilio of
esty and Integrity for Good Gov- Pampanga, and Fr. Albert Alejo,
ernance,” the week long obser- SJ, Rector of Ateneo de Davao
vance of “Laity Week” will go on University.
from September 21 to October 28. Miss Muriel Gojo and Miss
Expected to gather around 500 Linda Tacorda will present
participants all over the country Christifideles Laici to the partici-
the Laiko conference will focus pants.
on the role of the laity in social Atty. Rean Sy, People’s Graft
development which includes Watch (Iloilo), Atty. Mia Meñez-
vigilance as citizen-critical col- Zafra, BBC-Laiko Initiatives (Ma-
laborators with government to nila), Fr. Melo Diola, Convenor,
help ensure good governance. Barug Filipino (Cebu) and Engr.
Jaro Archbishop and CBCP Jose B. Lugay, Chairman, Laiko
president Angel N. Lagdameo Advocacy on Good Governance
will preside the opening Eucha- (Manila) will share their experi-
ences and advocacies.
A conference statement is ex-
pected to be drafted at the end of
the convention highlighting the
resolutions adopted by the body
during the two-day meeting.
Bishop Gabriel V. Reyes, Chair-
man of Episcopal Commission on
the Laity (ECLA) and Laiko Na-
tional Director will preside the
concluding Mass while Bishop
Guillermo Afable will officiate the
Mass on the first day of meeting.
The lay arm of the Catholic
Bishops Conference of the Phil-
ippines, the Sangguniang Laiko
ng Pilipinas has affiliate mem-
bers from different lay organiza-
tions all over the country, among
them: Adoracion Nocturna
Filipina; Ang Ligaya ng
Panginoon; Ang Lingkod ng
Panginoon; Apostleship of
Prayer; Ascending Life;
Baranggay Sang Virgen; Broth-
erhood of Christian Businessmen
and Professionals; Bukas Loob sa
Diyos Foundation, Inc.;
Carmelite Missionary Secular;
Catholic Lawyers’ Guild of the
Philippines; Catholic Nurses’
Guild of the Philippines; Catho-
lic Physicians’ Guild of the Phil-
ippines; Catholic Women’s
League; Catholic Youth Organi-
zation in the Philippines; Chil-
dren of Mary; Christ Family Mis-
sion Movement; Christian Fam-
ily Movement of the Philippines;
Christian Life Communities;
Couples for Christ; Crusaders of
the Holy Face of Jesus; Cursillos
in Christianity; Daughters of
Mary Immaculate; Divine Mercy
Apostolate of the Philippines;
Family Community Foundation,
Inc.; Federation of Free Farmers;
Federation of Transparochial
Charismatic Communities;
Focolare Movement; Holy Name
2008. KCFAPI, the insurance arm
of the Knights of Columbus in the
Philippines has played a significant
role in the lives of the family of each
Knight of Columbus in the country
and in the Church in general.
Founded with a small seed capital
of P32,000 on September 9, 1958
by Fr. George J. Willmann, SJ, to
provide low-cost insurance protec-
tion for Filipino brother knights and
their families, KCFAPI now has
grown into a multi-million peso venture with diverse interests but one in
goal—that to be of service to brother knights and their families, and the
Church. The year-long jubilee celebration launched September 14, 2007
culminated with a grand jubilee ball at the Manila Hotel attended by past
and present employees, sales force, Board of Trustees, clergy and other
guests who have played a momentous role in KCFAPI.
Society; Knights of Columbus; mittee-Catholic Charismatic Re-
Ladies of Charity of the Philip- newal of the Philippines; Philip-
pines; Lay Association of the Au- pine Coordination of Young
gustinian Sisters of Our Lady of Christian Workers; St. John
Consolation; Legion of Mary; Apostle & Evangelist Services
Marriage Encounter Foundation Association; Society of St.
of the Philippines; Marriage En- Vincent de Paul; Teresian Asso-
hancement & Team Services ciation; Young Christian Work-
Foundation Inc.; Mother Butler ers of the Philippines, Inc.; Young
Guild; Mother Butler Mission Ladies Association of Charity;
Guild; Movement for a Better and World Apostolate of Fatima.
World; National Service Com- (CBCPNews)
 CBCP
CBCP Monitor
Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 19 B1
September 15 - 28, 2008

Pastoral Concerns
© Photos courtesy of FLICKR and CORBIS

‘We
‘We Cannot Cannot Be Be SilentSilent
About
About What
What We
We Know’
Know’
(A discourse Pope Benedict XVI gave Sunday night at the conclusion of the
Eucharistic procession in the prairie at the Marian shrine in Lourdes.)
LORD JESUS, You are here! ment of the eternal pres- the crowd of all those men and women
everything, to offer her body so as to re-
And you, my brothers, my sisters, my ence of the savior of man- who have spent hours in adoration of the
ceive the Body of the Creator. Everything
friends, You are here, with me, in his kind to his Church. Most Holy Sacrament of the altar.
came from Christ, even Mary; everything
presence! My brothers, my sisters, This evening, we do not see them, but
came through Mary, even Christ.
Lord, two thousand years ago, you will- my friends, we hear them saying to us, to every man
Mary, the holy Virgin, is with us this
ingly mounted the infamous Cross in or- Let us accept; may you and to every woman among us: “Come,
evening, in the presence of the Body of
der then to rise again and to remain for accept to offer yourselves let the Master call you! He is here! He is
her Son, one hundred and fifty years af-
ever with us, your brothers and sisters. to him who has given us ter revealing herself to little Bernadette.
calling you (cf. Jn 11:28)! He wants to
And you, my brothers, my sisters, my everything, who came not Holy Virgin, help us to contemplate,
take your life and join it to his.
friends, You willingly allow him to to judge the world, but to help us to adore, help us to love, to grow
Let yourself be embraced by him! Gaze
embrace you. save it (cf. Jn 3:17), accept in love for him who loved us so much,
no longer upon your own wounds, gaze
We contemplate him. to recognize in your lives so as to live eternally with him.
upon his. Do not look upon what still sepa-
We adore him. the presence of him who is An immense crowd of witnesses is in-
rates you from him and from others; look
We love him. We seek to grow in love present here, exposed to visibly present beside us, very close to this
upon the infinite distance that he has abol-
for him. our view. Accept to offer blessed grotto and in front of this church
ished by taking your flesh, by mounting
We contemplate him who, in the him your very lives! that the Virgin Mary wanted to be built;
the Cross which men had prepared for
course of his Passover meal, gave his Mary, the holy Virgin, the crowd of all those men and women
him, and by letting himself be put to death
body and blood to his disciples, so as to Mary, the Immaculate who have contemplated, venerated,
so as to show you his love. In his wounds,
be with them “always, to the close of the Conception, accepted, two adored the real presence of him who gave
he takes hold of you; in his wounds, he
age” (Mt 28:20). thousand years ago, to give himself to us even to the last drop of blood;
hides you. Do not refuse his Love!”
We adore him who is the origin and The immense
goal of our faith, him without whom we crowd of witnesses
would not be here this evening, without
whom we would not be at all, without
“Mary, the holy Virgin, is with us, in the who have allowed
themselves to be
whom there would be nothing, absolutely presence of the Body of her Son, one embraced by his
nothing! Him through whom “all things hundred and fifty years after revealing Love, is the crowd of
were made” (Jn 1:3), him in whom we were saints in heaven
created, for all eternity, him who gave us herself to little Bernadette.” who never cease to
his own body and intercede for us.
blood “ he is here this They were sinners
evening, in our midst, “Mary, the holy Virgin, Mary, the Im- and they knew it,
for us to gaze upon. maculate Conception, accepted, but they willingly
We love, and we ceased to gaze upon
seek to grow in love two thousand years ago, to give ev- their own wounds
for him who is here, erything, to offer her body so as to and to gaze only
in our presence, for us
to gaze upon, for us receive the Body of the Creator. Ev- upon the wounds of
their Lord, so as to
perhaps to question, erything came from Christ, even discover there the
for us to love.
Whether we are
Mary; everything came through glory of the Cross,
to discover there the
walking or nailed to a Mary, even Christ.” victory of Life over
bed of suffering; death. Saint Pierre-
whether we are walk- Julien Eymard tells
ing in joy or languish- us everything when
ing in the wilderness he cries out: “The
of the soul (cf. Num holy Eucharist is
21:4): Lord, take us all Jesus Christ, past,
into your Love; the present and future”
infinite Love which is (“Sermons and Pa-
eternally the Love of rochial Instructions
the Father for the Son after 1856,” 4-2.1,
and the Son for the Fa- “On Meditation”).
ther, the Love of the
Father and the Son for
“Holy Virgin, help us to contemplate, help us Jesus Christ, past,
in the historical
the Spirit, and the to adore, help us to love, to grow in love for truth of the evening
Love of the Spirit for
the Father and the
him who loved us so much, so as to live in the Upper Room,
to which every cel-
Son. The sacred host eternally with Christ.” ebration of holy
exposed to our view Mass leads us back.
speaks of this infinite Jesus Christ, present, because he said
power of Love mani- to us: “Take and eat of this, all of you,
fested on the glorious this is my body, this is my blood.”
Cross. The sacred host “This is”, in the present, here and now,
speaks to us of the in- as in every here and now throughout
credible abasement of human history. The real presence, the
the One who made presence which surpasses our poor lips,
himself poor so as to our poor hearts, our poor thoughts. The
make us rich in him, presence offered for us to gaze upon as
the One who accepted we do here, this evening, close to the
the loss of everything grotto where Mary revealed herself as
so as to win us for his the Immaculate Conception.
Father. The sacred The Eucharist is also Jesus Christ, fu-
host is the living, effi- ture, Jesus Christ to come. When we con-
cacious and real sacra- Lourdes / B3

B2
Canonical Safeguards for
the Doctrine of the Faith
By Fr. Jaime B. Achacoso, J.C.D.
MY nephew graduated from a prestigious
Catholic university. Some years ago, when
he was still in that institution, he cheerily
announced over breakfast that his theology
professor openly confessed in class that he
was an atheist. His mother—my sister—
promptly took it up with the school authori-
ties, and she was told that indeed a good num-
ber of the professors of the Theology Depart-
ment of that university were avowed athe-
ists, but that it was part of academic freedom
to respect their views on that subject. My sis-
ter was dumbfounded, since she had precisely
put her son in a Catholic university to avoid
such erroneous ideas. I had forgotten this in-
cident but a more recent episode—this time
involving a niece in a Catholic school for
girls—has moved me to seek clarification.
From what I gathered from my sister, the
religion teacher in that school told my niece’s
class that the CBCP’s position against contra-
ception is just one position, and there are
other Catholic positions on the matter. Does
Canon Law not safeguard the teaching of
sound doctrine in Catholic institutions?
“Guarding the deposit of the faith is the
mission which the Lord entrusted to his
Church, and which she fulfills in every age.” 1
This is part of the teaching office of the
Church. However, the munus docendi—as the
above-recounted incidents would illustrate—
would be seriously hampered were the ju-
ridical system to lack the mechanisms to en-
force the propagation of the correct doctrine
and to proscribe erroneous ones. Thus Canon
Law indeed contains the adequate juridic safe-
guards for the authenticity of the Gospel
message and its propagation. This safeguard-
ing is anchored on three institutions, which
have enjoyed re-formulation in recent years.
A. THE PROFESSIO FIDEI
Historically, the requisite of a public pro-
fession of faith in specific circumstances finds
its origin in the first centuries of the Chris-
tian era—e.g., for the catechumens before
baptism, and for priests and bishops before
their ordination. This public profession of
faith implied a formal manifestation of the
Christian faith before the ecclesiastical au-
thority and according to the dispositions of
Canon Law.
The present Code of Canon Law stipulates
that the following persons are obliged to make a
profession of faith personally in accord with the
formula approved by the Apostolic See (c.833):
1. all persons who take part with either a
deliberative or consultative vote in an ecu-
menical or particular council, in a synod of
bishops, or in a diocesan synod;
2. those promoted to the sacred college of
cardinals;
3. all persons promoted to the episcopacy
and those equivalent to a diocesan bishop;
4. the diocesan consultor;
5. vicars general, episcopal vicars and vic-
ars judicial;
6. pastors, the rector of the seminary, the
professors of theology and philosophy in
seminaries, those to be promoted to the or-
der of deacons;
7. the rector of an ecclesiastical or Catholic
university at the beginning of his term of
office, and teachers in any university who
teach disciplines which deal with faith or
morals (italics added for emphasis);
8. the superiors in clerical religious insti-
tutes and societies of apostolic life, in accord
with the norms of the constitutions.
The Code was of course alluding to the
Professio Fidei extant at that time—promul-
gated by the S.C. for the Doctrine of the Faith
in 1967.
Updates
Illustration by Bladimer Usi
B. CANONICAL DEFINITION OF ASSENT
AND PENALIZATION OF UNLAWFUL
DISSENT.
On 9 January 1989, the S.C. for the Doctrine
of the Faith published new formulas for the
Professio Fidei and the Iusiurandum
fidelitatis in suscipiendo officio nomine
Ecclesiae exercendo, which were approved by
the Roman Pontiff in a special Rescript dated
19 September of that same year. The Professio
Fidei enumerates three specific kinds of
propositions that the Magisterium teaches
and to which the believer is obliged to ad-
here.
1st Category of truths: De fide credenda. The
formula states: With firm faith, I also believe ev-
erything contained in the Word of God, whether
written or handed down in Tradition, which the
Church either by a solemn judgment of by the
ordinary and universal Magisterium sets forth to
be believed as divinely revealed. These are truths
definitively proposed by the Universal
Magisterium (either solemn or ordinary) to
be believed as formally revealed—i.e., con-
tained in the sources of Revelation. The faith-
From what I gathered
from my sister, the
religion teacher in
that school told my
niece’s class that the
CBCP’s position
against contraception
is just one position,
and there are other
Catholic positions on
the matter. Does
Canon Law not safe-
guard the teaching of
sound doctrine in
Catholic institutions?
ful are duty-bound to adhere to them with an
act of faith in Revelation itself. This para-
graph appropriately confirms and is pro-
vided for in c.750 of the present Code of
Canon Law.
2nd Category of truths: De fide tenenda. The
formula further states: I also firmly accept and
hold each and everything definitively proposed by
the Church regarding teaching on faith and mor-
als. This refers to teachings also definitively
proposed by the Magisterium, but not as for-
mally revealed—i.e., not as specifically con-
tained in the sources of Revelation. The faith-
ful are obliged to give accept and hold these
truths—not insofar as these belong to Rev-
elation, but insofar as they are being defini-
tively proposed by the Church. It was for the
safeguarding of this category of truths that a
§2 was added to c.750 of the CIC 83 through
the Motu Proprio Ad Tuendam of 1998. Thus,
c.750 of the Code of Canon Law now consists
of two paragraphs:
1. Those things are to be believed by divine
and catholic faith which are contained in the word
of God as it has been written or handed down by
tradition, that is, in the single deposit of faith en-
trusted to the Church, and which are at the same
time proposed as divinely revealed either by the
solemn Magisterium of the Church, or by its ordi-
nary and universal Magisterium, which in fact is
manifested by the common adherence of Christ’s
faithful under the guidance of the sacred
Magisterium. All are therefore bound to avoid any
contrary doctrines.
2. Furthermore, each and everything set forth
definitively by the Magisterium of the Church re-
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 19
September 15 - 28, 2008
Appropriate
Penances
(Father Edward McNamara, professor of liturgy at the Regina
Apostolorum university, answers the following question:)
Q: Could you please comment on what appropriate and ad-
equate penances might be in the sacrament of reconciliation.
I tend to stay to the traditional Our Fathers and Hail Marys, but
I feel at times they are inadequate. A colleague gives much
more “difficult” penances: e.g., the Stations of the Cross, two
or three rosaries, reading certain psalms or other Scripture
texts. Many of his penitents come back later not having been
able to complete their penance and are troubled. As a young
priest I was instructed to give a penance that can be com-
pleted before the penitent leaves the church. H.J., Peabody,
Massachusetts
A: Perhaps it should first be observed that all penances are intrinsi-
cally inadequate in order to make true satisfaction for sin. The gravity
involved in any sin far outweighs our possibility to repair the lack of
love toward God. The wonder of confession is God’s generosity to-
ward us in offering us reconciliation and restoring us to his friendship.
The Church limits itself to instructing priests to impose adequate
penances corresponding to the nature of each case. The custom of
imposing prayer as penance is no mere formula; rather, precisely be-
cause it is prayer, it is a sign of the renewal of grace in the soul that
makes authentic prayer possible and meritorious.
In imposing a suitable penance there are several things to be taken
into account.
First of all, the nature of the sin must be considered as penances
seek to be remedial, and graver sins need more severe penances so
as to awaken the conscience to their gravity, especially if repeated
often. Sins of injustice such as stealing or calumny must also be rem-
edied through some form of restitution of goods or good name.
Just as important, however, is the nature of the penitent as there is
no automatic tariff corresponding to certain sins.
As far as possible a priest has to judge the spiritual weight of his
penitent before imposing a suitable penance. This usually becomes
clear through the manner of the confession itself. A person who has a
strong spiritual resonance as well as a solid Catholic formation is more
likely to benefit from penances such as reading Scripture, reciting
psalms, or performing pious practices.
When a person has less knowledge of the faith and is not habitu-
ated to cert ain practices such as the rosary, Via Crucis, or fasting, it is
garding teaching on faith and morals must be firmly probably better not to impose such penances as it is likely to lead to
accepted and held, namely those things required frustration.
for the holy keeping and faithful exposition of the The rule that the penance should be able to be fulfilled before leav-
deposit of faith; therefore, anyone who rejects propo- ing the church applies above all to this class of penitent. If the priest
sitions which are to be held definitively sets him- thinks that the customary Hail Marys and Our Fathers are inadequate in
self against the teaching of the Catholic Church. particular cases, then he could impose a doable but less formal pen-
ance. For example, he could tell the penitent to visit the Blessed Sacra-
3rd Category of truths: Finally, the formula ment, or an altar dedicated to Our Lady, for a certain amount of time
states: Moreover I adhere with submission of will and, in this climate of intimacy, to give thanks for the pardon received
and intellect to the teachings which either the Ro- and to ask help in overcoming a particular fault.
man Pontiff or the College of Bishops enunciate
This last form of penance is often very beneficial to souls who have
when they exercise their authentic Magisterium, been away from confession for a long time and have been moved by
even if they do not intend to proclaim these teach- a particular grace to seek the sacrament.
ings by a definitive act. This paragraph has its
corresponding legislative expression in c.752 Sometimes the penance itself can be a source of conversion. There
is an old anecdote of a priest who overheard a group of lighthearted
of the Code of Canon Law: A religious respect young men making a wager in which the loser had to go to confession.
of intellect and will, even if not the assent of faith, With this knowledge the priest took his seat in the confessional and
is to be paid to the teaching which the Supreme when the youth came to confess, the cleric imposed as a penance that
Pontiff or the college of bishops enunciate on faith the boy go before the church’s large crucifix and repeat 20 times: “You
did this for me and I couldn’t care less.” At first the youth repeated it
or morals when they exercise the authentic
nonchalantly, and then more slowly and finally finished in tears. For
magisterium even if they do not intend to proclaim this young man this confession was the beginning of a journey of
it with a definitive act; therefore the Christian faith- conversion that eventually led to his becoming archbishop of Paris.
ful are to take care to avoid whatever is not in
harmony with that teaching.
Since these teachings are not proposed de-
finitively, they do not enjoy the note of infal-
libility. It is this datum that has caused a num-
ber of misconceptions, which we should
clarify with the following observations:
a) “Not infallible” is not equivalent to “fal-
lible”. The note of infallibility is a precise
phenomenon—juridically determined—
which has to do with the manner in which a
teaching is proposed, and not directly about
the intrinsic truthfulness or certainty of the
teaching.
b) “Not infallible” is not equivalent to
“questionable”. Faced with a teaching that
does not enjoy the note of infallibility, there
is no reason for a Catholic to adopt a posture
of doubt or criticism, but rather one of posi-
tive acceptance, with the assurance that in this
way he is serving the Church.
c) The contrary behavior is typified as a
delict—as pointed out earlier (cf. c.1371, 1º).
Aside from an intellectual assent to the doc-
trine, an assent of the will is required, mani-
fested by an external actuation in accord with
it.
d) The distinction between “infallible” and
“simply authentic” Magisterium should not
be confused with the distinction between sol-
emn (extraordinary) and ordinary
Magisterium. This is the kind of formalistic
error that tends to reduce infallibility to for-
mal solemnity without regard to the more
important (substantial) note of definitive-
ness.
Conclusion
From the foregoing discussion, it is quite
clear that the theology professors in the
Catholic university and the religion teacher
in the Catholic school for girls are in clear
violation of Canon Law. The aggrieved par-
ties—in this case any student, their parents
or guardians—can bring the matter to the
attention of the competent ecclesiastical au-
thority, which in this case would be the Local
Ordinary (or bishop of the diocese). Failing
in that, they can raise the matter to the Holy
See through the Papal Nuncio.
(Footnotes)
1 John Paul II, Apost. Const. Fidei Depositum
(11.X.1992)
22
The typification of the corresponding delict was
also made by making the corresponding modifica-
tions in c.1371, 1º to refer to the new c.750,§2:
Canon 1371 — The following are to be punished with
a just penalty:
1. a person who, apart from the case mentioned in
c.1364, §1, teaches a doctrine condemned by the Ro-
man Pontiff, or by an Ecumenical Council, or obsti-
nately rejects the teachings mentioned in c.750, §2 or
in c.752 and, when warned by the Apostolic See or by
the Ordinary, does not retract.
 CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 19
September 15 - 28, 2008 Diocese B3

Diocese
Diocese of
Diocese of Ma
of Mati
Ma ti
ON BACKGROUND: The Cathedral of San Nicolas de Tolentino. BELOW: Bishop Patricio H. Alo, DD.

ti

By Fr. Celso Singson
THE early establishment and spiritual
growth of the Local Church of Davao
Oriental can be traced to the early Chris-
tian Spanish missionaries who brought
the Faith in this part of the country. The
early evangelization began in 1848 by
the Augustinian Recollects. After their
presence the Jesuit missionaries fol-
lowed in 1859 and served for almost a
century. The Foreign Mission of Quebec
Fathers came in 1958. The Maryknoll
Fathers and Brothers continued their
work in 1968 and contributed to a flour-
ishing of vocations among the local
people. The native clergy took over in
1978 although some Maryknoll Fathers
were still in the area until 1987.
1894; St. Francis Xavier Parish of Manay
in 1897; San Nicolas de Tolentino Parish
of Mati in 1937; St. Vincent Ferrer Parish
of Lupon in 1955; St. Francis Xavier Par-
ish of Gov. Generoso in 1963; San Isidro
Labrador Parish of San Isidro in 1965;
San Isidro Labrador Parish of
Banaybanay and San Pedro Claver Par-
ish of Tarragona in 1982; San Nicolas de
Tolentino Parish of Boston in 1986; Sto.
Rosario Parish of Brgy. Calapagan,
Lupon in 1993 and San Ignacio de Loyola
Parish of Brgy. San Ignacio, Manay in
1991; San Ignacio de Loyola Parish of
Brgy. Luzon, Gov. Generoso in 1993;
Nuestra Senora de Guia Parish of Brgy
Dawan, Mati in 1994; Sacred Heart Par-
ish of Brgy. Dahican, Mati in 1997; Sto.
Niño Parish of Brgy. Kinablangan,
Baganga in 2000 and Divine Mercy Shrine
Parish of Madang, Mati in 2006. The Lo-
cal Church of Mati was under the juris-
diction of the Ecclesiastical Province of
the Archdiocese of Cebu and later on,
the Archdiocese of Zamboanga before it
values) directed to the Basic Christian
Communities (BCC or GKK), where the
family grows and nurtures her youth as
the future of the church.
Ministries and Programs
Different field of ministries and pro-
grams are established to nourish and
strengthen the faith, encourage lay par-
ticipation and enhance community lead-
ership in the Basic Ecclesial Communi-
ties. Thousands of lay volunteered cat-
echists are involved in school and chapel
catechesis. Basic Christian Community
(BEC) leaders and lay ministers help the
clergy in carrying the diocesan vision
and mission. The young people in their
own ministry (diocesan youth
apostolate, DYA) are involved in church
services and liturgies. Lay social action
workers help in the development of so-
cial and health services. There are dif-
ferent congregations of religious sisters
carrying out the administrations of
Catholic schools and life witnessing
giving holy Communion.
5. Social Action Apostolate pro-
vides the needy some IMPORTANT FACTS
technical know-how in productive
farming and other useful methods. Bishop ……....……………….. 1
6. The AD Jesum Development Priests:
Diocesan ……………..…..…. 37
foundation greatly support our people
Religious:
who are in need to live a decent kind Filipino ……………….....….. 5
of life by providing them some re- Foreigner ………………….. 1
sources (trainings and financial assis- Brothers ……………………. 2
tance) to become self-sufficient. Sisters:
7. Different movements in the Dio- Foreigner ..………………...….. 6
cese (CCRM, Neo-catechumenate, Filipino …………….....………. 2
BLD, Couples for Christ-FFL and Seminarians:
Global and others) catered the diver- Theology …………………….. 6
College …………….…………. 18
sity of needs of our people in their
Pre-College ………………..... 7
quest to intensify their spiritual life. Diocesan Divisions:
8. Mass Media through DXHM ra- Vicariates ……………………. 4
dio station and TCTV cable network Parishes ………………....…... 18
foster on the evangelization of Educational Centers:
people. High School ………………….. 8
Elementary ……………....…… 6
Vision-Mission Population ………....…… 593,322
The People of God in the Diocese Catholics ………………. 434,890
Area …………...….. 5,146 sq. kms.
of Mati, mature Christians, bravely

The Church of Mati was canonically erected as a Diocese on the 14th day of
December, 1984 with Most Rev. Patricio H. Alo, DD as the first Bishop. San Nicolas de
Tolentino Cathedral was made the official seat of the new diocese. It comprises the
entire civil jurisdiction of the whole province of Davao Oriental with 11 municipalities
and ecclesiastically divided into 18 parishes. At present, there are 37 diocesan
priests and six religious priests assisting the bishop in the administration of the
sacraments, pastoral and social needs of the diocese.

Evangelization of Davao Oriental
Catholicism began its roots in Davao
Oriental with the establishment of El
Salvador del Mundo Parish of Caraga in
1883, which was the first and oldest
church in the area. Subsequently other
parishes were established: Immaculate
Conception Parish of Bangaga in 1885;
St. James the Apostle Parish of Cateel in
became a part of the Diocese of Tagum.
Canonical erection of Diocese
The Church of Mati was canoni-
cally erected as a Diocese on the 14th
day of December, 1984 with Most
Rev. Patricio H. Alo, DD as the
first Bishop. San Nicolas de
Tolentino Cathedral was made
the official seat of the new dio-
cese. It comprises the entire
civil jurisdiction of the whole
province of Davao Oriental
with 11 municipalities and
ecclesiastically divided into 18
parishes. At present, there are 37 dioc-
esan priests and six religious priests as-
sisting the bishop in the administration
of the sacraments, pastoral and social
needs of the diocese.
Pastoral Thrust
The Diocesan Pastoral Trust focuses on
Formation, based on Catechism (as the
church teaches) and Education (on moral
through different kinds of ministries.
And the Carmelite Nuns are unceasingly
praying for the success of the evangeli-
zation in the Local Church of Mati.
Diocesan apostolate
1. Family Life Apostolate Workers are
active in the education and formation of
young couples in their preparation for
marriage and on-going formation for the
families.
2. Diocesan Youth Apostolate, (an or-
ganization of young people) are given
formation seminars on moral values,
sacraments and sports through Christ-
mas reunions and summer youth camps.
3. Catechists are leading the formation
of children on basic catechism in their
preparation for first communion and
confirmation and giving seminars for
parents and children in Baptism, First
Communion and Confirmation.
4. Eucharistic Ministers (Kaabag) are
helping the priests in reaching out to
remote villages in evangelization and
celebrating faith and love, sincere people
of service in both human and Christian
aspects, more especially towards the
poor and oppressed for the sake of total
liberation and salvation according to the
teaching of Jesus together with Mary, and
pledging ourselves for Jesus Christ to
do the following:
1. To know and experience the life of
Christ through the Holy Scriptures, in a
life of prayer, and meaningful liturgy and
proclaiming the Good News to others.
2. Ready to stand for a life in Christ
witnessing the Gospel and teachings of
the Church amidst false teaching that
deny God and attract towards material-
ism.
3. Strengthen the family so it may be-
come a small Church.
4. Help one another in strengthening
the Basic Ecclesial Communities (BEC)
through continuous formation of lead-
ers and members so they may share and
make others share time, talent and trea-
sure to acquire self-nourishment, self-
sufficiency, self-determination as dis-
ciples of Christ.
5. Launch a socio-political and eco-
nomic program to improve the life of
the poor.
6. Concerned commitment as well as
defense of human rights and dignity
without any discrimination as to reli-
gion, background and culture.
7. Form young people in meaningful
service to the church and community.
8. Continue evangelization of Indig-
enous people and respecting their cul-
ture.
9. Launch a meaningful program to
protect, maintain and restore ecological
balance.
10. Initiate a continued vocation pro-
gram for priests, religious and mission
orientation.
The Diocese of Mati believes that it is
a church that continually renews towards
a total and integral salvation in Christ
and through his ways.

Lourdes / B1
template the sacred host, his glo-
rious transfigured and risen
Body, we contemplate what we
shall contemplate in eternity,
where we shall discover that the
whole world has been carried by
its Creator during every second
of its history. Each time we con-
sume him, but also each time we
contemplate him, we proclaim
him until he comes again,
“donec veniat”. That is why we
receive him with infinite respect.
Some of us cannot—or cannot
yet—receive Him in the Sacra-
ment, but we can contemplate
Him with faith and love and ex-
press our desire finally to be
united with Him. This desire has
great value in God’s presence:
such people await his return more
ardently; they await Jesus Christ
who must come again.
When, on the day after her first
communion, a friend of
Bernadette asked her: “What
made you happier: your first
communion or the apparitions?”
Bernadette replied, “they are two
things that go together, but can-
not be compared. I was happy in
both” (“Emmanuélite Estrade,” 4
June 1958). She made this testi-
mony to the Bishop of Tarbes in
regard to her first communion:
“Bernadette behaved with im-
mense concentration, with an at-
tention that left nothing to be
desired … she appeared pro-
foundly aware of the holy action
that was taking place. Everything
developed in her in an astonish-
ing way.”
With Pierre-Julien Eymard and
Bernadette, we invoke the wit-
ness of countless men and women
saints who had the greatest love
for the holy Eucharist. Nicolas
Cabasilas cries out to us this
evening: “If Christ dwells within
us, what do we need? What do
we lack? If we dwell in Christ,
what more could we desire? He
is our host and our dwelling-
place. Happy are we to be his
home! What joy to be ourselves
the dwelling-place of such an in-
habitant!”
Blessed Charles de Foucauld
was born in 1858, the very year of
the apparitions at Lourdes. Not far
from his body, stiffened by death,
there lay, like the grain of wheat
cast upon the earth, the lunette
containing the Blessed Sacrament
which Brother Charles adored
every day for many a long hour.
Father de Foucauld has given us a
prayer from the depths of his
heart, a prayer addressed to our
Father, but one which, with Jesus,
we can in all truth make our own
in the presence of the sacred host:
“‘Father, into your hands I com-
mend my spirit.’ This was the last
prayer of our Master, our Be-
loved… May it also be our own
prayer, and not only at our last
moment, but at every moment in
our lives: Father, I commit my-
self into your hands; Father, I trust
in you; Father, I abandon myself
to you; Father, do with me what
you will; whatever you may do, I
thank you; thank you for every-
thing; I am ready for all, I accept
all; I thank you for all. Let only
your will be done in me, Lord, let
only your will be done in all your
creatures, in all your children, in
all those whom your heart loves,
I wish no more than this, O Lord.
Into your hands I commend my
soul; I offer it to you, Lord, with
all the love of my heart, for I love
you, and so need to give myself
in love, to surrender myself into
your hands, without reserve, and
with boundless confidence, for
you are my Father.”
Beloved brothers and sisters,
day pilgrims and inhabitants of
these valleys, brother Bishops,
priests, deacons, men and women
religious, all of you who see be-
fore you the infinite abasement
of the Son of God and the infinite
glory of the Resurrection, remain
in silent adoration of your Lord,
our Master and Lord Jesus Christ.
Remain silent, then speak and tell
the world: we cannot be silent
about what we know. Go and tell
the whole world the marvels of
God, present at every moment of
our lives, in every place on earth.
May God bless us and keep us,
may he lead us on the path of eter-
nal life, he who is Life, for ever
and ever. Amen.
 CBCP Monitor
B4 Features Vol. 12 No. 19
September 15 - 28, 2008

Fr. Luis P. Supan

The Question Box Commitment of the

Questions on
Laity in public life
Population Control
What does the Reproductive Health Bill aim to achieve?

The Bill is presented by its proponents as the panacea for

“unwanted pregnancies”, teenage pregnancies, abortions, and
maternal health problems. The proposed panacea is the usual
concoction of aggressive promotion of sex education and contra-
ceptive use—measures that, in whatever country they were
adopted, have unfailingly produced the opposite results.

What is the fundamental error of the State in its campaigns

to promote contraceptive practices when its intention is to
avoid “unwanted pregnancies” among its citizens?

These campaigns fail because the State looks at pregnancies as

diseases that have to be avoided, and yet no normal person sees
new human life that way. Millions of pesos used for media
propaganda by the State will not convince a married couple that
their child is a liability. This is why State-orchestrated campaigns
against population growth can show apparent success only if they
are accompanied by deception. Yes, the State is obliged to
intervene in the control of the spread of AIDS (e.g., by controlling
sexual promiscuity), because that is a matter of public health; but it
has absolutely no right to tell its citizens: “You have too many
children—they are a burden to society; so, take the pill or have
yourselves ligated”. Some mothers ended up agreeing to be ligated
after hearing these words from the physicians attending to them as
they laid in the delivery rooms of government hospitals.

Does the State have the competence to give the so-called

“sex education” to its citizens, in particular, to children and
the youth?

No, it does not. The duty and the right to provide “sex education”
belong to parents. The Reproductive Health Bill will usurp that
primary right of parents. The outcome will be young people experts
in sexual acts and contraceptive methods, but deprived of moral
knowledge on the meaning of human sexuality. What the Bill intends
to do in the field of sex education is not only morally abhorrent, but
also contrary to the basic principles of child psychology and
education. The Pontifical Council for the Family issued in 1994 the
document The Truth and Meaning of Human Sexuality, containing
the principles and guidelines of educating children and young
people—within the family environment—on human sexuality.
Why is the moral guidance of parents necessary in
educating the youth on human sexuality?
This is not a “Church teaching”—it is rather a truth that any normal
human being (of whatever religion) can reach. All that the Church
has done is to defend and apply it. In this area of education, the
role of parents is primary and non-transferable, the above-
mentioned document says. It is from the parents’ example that
children understand what it means to respect the opposite sex;
what modesty is all about, what it means to be male and female. It
is to the parents that children must turn for advice as they go
through the natural processes of physical and psychological
growth. Uprooted from its link with the family, “sex education”
degenerates to “sex information”. Since the sexual instinct is as
strong as the instinct for self-preservation, it loses its meaning and
purpose if it is guided mainly by information and little moral forma-
tion.
In opposing the Reproductive Health Bill, is the Church
ignoring the health concerns related to pregnancy that
women face?
Certainly not. The truth is that the Church strongly opposes the Bill
precisely because the promotion of the use of contraceptive pills,
Intra-uterine devices (IUD’s), injectable contraceptives have been
proved to be health hazards to women. What the Church is trying
to do is to help our legislators be consistent with their good
intentions—if they are sincerely after the good health of mothers,
then they have to ban the use of those contraceptive methods. The
huge budget to finance the buying of contraceptives could, instead,
be used for the primary health care of mothers and infants—
nutrition and hygiene training, for instance. It has been the
experience of rural physicians that they would have an oversupply
of contraceptives but a lack of antibiotics and re-hydration tablets.
What should be kept in mind when we deal with matters
related to human life—from its conception up to its natural
end?
These matters should be approached with a spirit of reverence and
of humility of heart—reverence before God, the source and master
of human life; humility of heart because this enables us to conquer
pride that insinuates to us this thought: “I am the master of my life
and my body; God has no business telling me what I do with my
body”.
Pope John Paul II wrote the encyclical Evangelium Vitae. If only our
national leaders and lawmakers could go over it (Cf.
www.vatican.va), they would easily understand the uncompromis-
ing stand of the Church on life issues. So many present social ills
could have been avoided had our national leaders paid heed to the
moral guidelines of our spiritual pastors.
By Dr. Linda T. Tacorda, Ph.D.
DID you know that there was a time the
Council of the Laity was not existing among
the dicasteries of Vatican? Who started it?
When? How?
A short history recall
Due to the renewal brought about by
Vatican Council II in the 60s, there was a re-
vamp of the entire office structures in the
Holy See. The reform of the Roman curia was
implementing the Apostolic constitution
Regimini Ecclesiae universae dated 15 August
1967. Among the new dicasteries created was
the Pontifical Council for the Laity (PCL) 1. (Ac-
tually this PCL originated from a proposal
formulated in par. 26 of Vatican Council II
decree titled Apostolicam actuositatem on the
apostolate of the laity. Its birth was made
official by Pope Paul VI with his motu propio
titled Catholicam Christi Ecclesiam (6 January
1967). At the end of the experimental five
years, the Pope declared: No one can fail to see
that the Laity Council is destined to have a privi-
leged place within the Church.2 Ten years later,
on 10 December 1976 with another motu prop-
rio titled Apostolatus peragendi , Paul VI re-
formed it and included it among the perma-
nent dicasteries of the Roman Curia.
Today, its basic competence and structure
are defined in the context of the Apostolic
Constitution Pastor Bonus on the Roman Cu-
ria, of 28 June 1988.3
The same document tells us that within the
secretariat, there are sections whose tasks
concern, respectively: International move-
ments and associations of the lay faithful; The
vocation and mission of women in Church
and society; and Youth ministry.
Two-fold fruitful approach of John Paul II
Pope John Paul II saw to it that a two-fold,
indivisible and fruitful approach is basic to
the PCL service. This is expressed, thus: “We
have to realize that the laity can only be rightfully
understood in the light of an ecclesiology of com-
munion and mission and with reference to the con-
crete situations existing in the world.”
So that the role of PCL is to promote “the
interrelationship of the apostolate of the laity with
that of the Hierarchy: two forces which it is impos-
sible, in the constitution of the Church, to imagine
divergent”.4
Also, the PCL must help bring about a “cur-
rent” within the “living organism” of the
Church through which the head and the mem-
bers will be closely united in the same love
for Christ the Savior, where the children’s
concerns will be known to the Father and
shared by him while the Father’s words will
be heard by all its children, understood and
put into practice.5
The PCL and the Sangguniang Laiko ng
Pilipinas
What is the connection between the inter-
national Pontifical Council for the Laity to
Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philip-
pines’ (CBCP) Sangguniang Laiko ng Pilipinas?
If PCL is to the Roman Curia, Laiko is to
CBCP. The constituent sections correspond-
ing to areas or tasks concern coordinating/
networking with movements and associa-
tions of the lay faithful; youth ministry;
women’s vocation and mission of the PCL is
true to the local Episcopal Conference. CBCP
has added a component focused on family
and life ministry.
However, the observation is while the dif-
ferent ministries are well clustered under the
Department for Lay Formation, CBCP has not
provided or assigned at least a rotating coor-
dinator or teams to monitor if not encourage
collective effort and support besides common
direction.
Commitment of LAIKO in Public Life6
What is right with our nation? I thought this
kind of question can provoke curiosity rather
than the usual one: “What is wrong with our
country? “If we dare ask, What is right with our
nation? And also ask, Has LAIKO contributed
to its betterment somehow?
What then are the lay faithful’s role in a
changing world, in issues that affect us in the
Local Church and in society in general? Re-
alities like: a) the increasing jobless popula-
tion; b) the increasing incidence of natural
disasters; c) the inroads of technology and
instant communication; d) the world energy
crisis; e) the migration of overseas workers
affecting family life; f) the political gover-
nance tainted with corruption; g) the dearth
of formed lay leaders for wholesome collabo-
ration with the parish priest/s in the com-
munity, etc.
Biennial conventions
Every two years, LAIKO organizes a na-
tional assembly of Laiko leader-representa-
tives of its affiliate members. Either they are
from the national lay organizations, move-
ments or private associations of lay faithful,
or Diocesan Councils of the Laity.
We revisit the themes, with resolutions and
action plans resulting therefrom. The trajec-
tory of resolutions begs for an honest assess-
ment as well as recaptures the intense desire
to effect needed changes. The themes chosen
are from the current topics%issues affecting the
people, the society, the government, which the
Church and CBCP, in particular need to guide
the faithful, addressing them according to the
Social Doctrines of the Church.
Themes and topics of Conventions
In 1999, the theme chosen was “Christian
Stewardship%Renewing Social and Economic
Order.” The speakers discussed topics on how
to Combat Drug abuse; Empower the Poor;
and Preserve the Integrity of Creation. Con-
vention resolutions were along the levels of
the family, the youth, the Church of the Fu-
ture; on poverty urban and rural poor.
In 2001, the theme was “Duc In Altum Meet-
ing the Challenge of the Philippine Church”.
The topics dwelt on Integral Faith-formation;
Lay Empowerment towards social transfor-
mation; and Family as a focal point of Evan-
gelization
In 2003, there was the National Conference
on Social Transformation (held in Philippine
International Convention Center) with the
theme: “Behold… I make all things new” (Rev
21, 5). The topics discussed focused on Educa-
tion, Local Governance, Business, and Basic
Ecclesial Community.
This Conference highlighted the mandate
of the Laity whose task and responsibility is
primarily to make our Church an active front-
line participant servant-leader in the social,
political and cultural transformation of this
country.
In 2003, the theme was “The Laity Taking
on the Challenge in Transforming Society.”
Held in Tagaytay City, the topics discussed
by speakers were: Education the liberating
and equalizing effect of education to a trans-
forming society; Business Doing and Being
Good, a corporate responsibility; Governance
Laity / B7

7
A NATIVE of Bohol, Most Rev. Emmanuel Cabajar was ordained bishop of Pagadian on August 14, 2004 in Cebu City. Currently the
Chairman of the Episcopal Commission on Culture, the bishop is keen in the promotion of peace and cultural exchange among
Christians and Muslims in Mindanao. In this issue of CBCP Monitor, he talks about the lack of transparency of the GRP-MILF accord
and the creation of Catholic Cultural Centers in his diocese, the diocesan programs on social concerns, the signature drive against
reproductive health bill in Congress, and the diocesan initiatives against environmental destruction.

QUESTIONS Most Rev. Emmanuel T. Cabajar, CSsR, D.D.

As the current Chairperson of the
Episcopal Commission on Culture,
what programs are you undertaking
to promote cultural exchange among
Christians and Muslims?
Every last Monday of the month
we hold an interfaith meeting com-
posed of Muslims, Subanens, and
Christians (Catholic and UCCP). The
meeting usually comprises two
parts. The first is faith sharing while
the second is devoted to addressing
socio, cultural, economic, moral is-
sues. I join these meetings whenever
I am in town. But that has nothing to do
with my being the Chairperson of the
ECC. We have organized a Mindanao
wide conference on the impact of media
on family life and values. That turned
out to be quite good and it is hoped that
we can duplicate that in the Visayas and
Luzon. Steps are being taken to achieve
that. The commission is trying to encour-
age the creation of Catholic Cultural
Centers. These can provide the space,
venue, occasion for making the gospel
meaningful in our varied cultures or sub-
cultures in the country. But am sure that
can also promote cultural exchange
among the different faith and cultural
traditions.
Is the diocese part of the GRP-MILF ac-
cord? What is your take on this issue?
It was only after the briefing organized
by the BUC in Davao City on 11th Au-
gust that I realized how much more ex-
tensive is the proposal with regard to
the Diocese of Pagadian. It includes
about 15 municipalities and the city of
Pagadian itself. Practically all the coastal
areas are included. I have not been aware
of that before this. There is a lot of ques-
tioning regarding the process and its
transparency. Many like me are shocked
to know the extent of the claim.
How does the diocese implement its so-
cial concerns program to help alleviate the
plight of the poor especially in this time
of rising prices of prime commodities?
The economic gains, which the gov-
ernment claims the country has achieved,
do not really trickle down to the rural
poor. These are the farmers that com-
prise the main bulk of the population in
Pagadian. They continue to live in de-
humanizing poverty and insecurity.
Through its social action program the
diocese tries to address the issue of pov-
erty through education as well as
through technical and financial support
that it shares with the farmers, either as
cooperatives/groups or as individuals.
Much emphasis is given to sustainable
agriculture and organic farming. There
are livelihood and livestock initiatives
such as the Carabao dispersal program.
Government health services are far from
adequate and so we have the Commu-
nity Based Health Program (CBHP) in
place. There will always be beggars
among the urban poor. We have tried to
centralize our response to this in the city
and so we have created the social con-
cerns desk to cater for the poor and indi-
gent in the city. The four city parishes
have pledged to provide personnel and
a monthly contribution to fund this
newly formed Social Concerns Desk.
One of the programs of the diocese re-
lated to social concerns is the Sabakan
program. Can you explain what this pro-
gram is all about?
Sabakan is involved in the education
of women, men and the family. Much of
its work is concerned with advocacy and
the promotion of human rights, espe-
cially those of women and children.
Sabakan puts particular attention to
documenting and helping women and
children who are abused, not infre-
quently within the family circle.
Hopefully, this program will pro-
gressively coordinate/collaborate
with the RGS sisters, who are now in
the process of building a ‘Home for
Hope’ which will be devoted to giv-
ing shelter to and helping at differ-
ent levels abused women and chil-
dren.
The issue on reproductive health is
currently taking the Church by
storm because of its adverse effects
on the sanctity of life. How does the
diocese educate the people on the
issue?
Our main arm for this issue is the
FLA which organizes seminars or
for discussions related to family life.
At this time however, what is of ur-
gent concern to us is the bill being
pushed in Congress that may have
grave implications and adverse ef-
fects on family life. In last month’s
7 Questions / B7
 CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 19
September 15 - 28, 2008
Rufino Jiao Cardinal
Santos, 100 years
(Homily delivered by His Eminence Gaudencio B. Cardinal Rosales, Archbishop of Manila, during the
Mass in celebration of the 100th birth anniversary of the late Rufino J. Cardinal Santos, the second
Filipino Archbishop of Manila and the first Filipino Cardinal, on August 26, 2008 at the Immaculate
Conception Parish Church in Guagua, Pampanga.)
ONE hundred years ago today, Rufino Jiao
Santos was born in the little barrio of Santo
Niño in the town of Guagua, Pampanga. It
had to be Pampanga, known historically as
one of the most religious provinces in the
country that must play host to the young and
receptive person of Rufino, the first Filipino
Cardinal, born to Gaudencio Santos and
Rosalia Jiao on 26 August 1908. The fact that
Rufino had eight other siblings spoke well of
his upbringing which welcomed the wealth
of character born of multiple versions of fra-
ternal relating, understanding and forgiving.
Judged today as too young to enter the
seminary at the age of thirteen, the vacillat-
ing options of youth were healthily balanced
in the young Rufino by his determination to
pursue a vision in
the future of the
Priest in the manner
of Jesus Christ and
a profound spiritual
life as a Christian.
From the old San
Carlos Seminary in
Mandaluyong he
was sent for further
studies to Rome
where he earned a
Doctorate in Sacred
Theology and a Li-
centiate in Canon
Law. Ordained
priest on 31st Octo-
ber 1931 he first
served as Parochial
Vicar of the parish
of our Lady of the
Pillar in Imus,
Cavite and later as
the Parish Priest of
St. Michael the
Archangel Parish in Marilao, Bulacan.
In 1934 then Father Rufino Santos was ap-
pointed superintendent of religious instruc-
tion in the Archdiocese of Manila. It was at
that time when lay catechists were trained
and later organized as volunteer religious
instructors in order to teach catechism in
many public, non-sectarian schools and even
in the parish churches for traditional
catechetical Sunday schools in the afternoon.
The three and a half years of Japanese oc-
cupation during the Second World War were
not only difficult times; they ended violently
with the massacre of more than 100,000 inno-
cent civilians and the near-complete destruc-
tion of the city of Manila (second only to War-
saw in Poland) including the killings of
priests, religious brothers and sisters. The
image of total destruction of the city rightly
belonged to Intramuros where the Arch-
bishop of Manila resided.
Towards the end of the Japanese war the
slightest suspicion of helping underground
guerillas or imprisoned Americans at UST
was threatened with imprisonment. The Arch-
bishop of Manila, Archbishop Michael
O’Doherty, in February 1944, was suspected
and threatened with imprisonment. The Rev-
erend Father Rufino J. Santos, secretary of
the Archbishop of Manila, intervened, and
before the investigators he owned that it was
he who handled the money and made the
donations to the poor and the prisoners. He
saved the Archbishop of Manila from the
Japanese, but the young Father Rufino was
immediately arrested and imprisoned in the
dungeons of Fort Santiago and later was sen-
tenced to death. It was only the timely ar-
rival of the American liberating forces that
freed Manila of Japanese soldiers that also
saved Father Rufino Santos from death.
Appointed as Auxiliary Bishop to Arch-
bishop O’Doherty at the age of 38 years, the
Reverend Father Rufino was ordained Bishop
at the Church of Santissimo Rosario of UST
on 24 October 1947. In many capacities, Bishop
Rufino J. Santos was the closest collaborator
to Archbishop Michael O’ Doherty.
Statements B5
Blessed are the peacemakers
(Mt: 5-9)
MY dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
Peace be with you!
Peace is a greeting. Peace is a salutation. Peace is a blessing.
Peace is a gift from God. Blessed are the peacemakers for they
shall be called children of God. Jesus said to his disciples, “I
leave you peace, my peace I give you.” It’s a peace that the
world cannot give. It’s a peace that the world cannot under-
stand. We cry in anguish for peace! We pray for peace.
Our term of peace is very much different from that of God.
We want peace but we go to war. We secure peace so we take
up arms. We negotiate for peace so we build fortresses. We
seek peace but we are influenced by our fears and biases. We
cry for peace but we become hostile. We pray for peace but we
hate. We fight for peace so we kill. This must not be our way.
© Photo courtesy of RCAM
Peace loving people and people of good will are the sincere
arbiters of peace. Let us unite to bring peace and go beyond the
conflicts, tensions, and anxieties stemming from fear and armed
conflict. We must stand and demand for permanent peace. Peace
by all and for all. Genuine and lasting peace for us, Filipinos,
Natives, Muslims, or Christians. Peace for Mindanao, a place
where Lumads, Muslims, and Christians can settle in peace, har-
mony, in dialogue, understanding, respect, and reconciliation.
Recently, peace is under attack and the wounds of inter-
ethnic’s strife marking the history of Mindanao in the mid-70’s
and 90’s is showing its ugly face. It is in times like this when
the all-too-much sentiments of anger, fear, hatred and confu-
sion are lumped together, that we urgently appeal to both our
Muslim and Christians communities to stay calm, vigilant,
and work together to protect peace and provide security by
preventing atrocious attacks and looting from rebels driven
by the orgy of madness and violence. We cannot allow peace
and peace process to be held hostage by armed group who are
resolved to perpetuate armed conflict.
Peace is elusive as of now. No peace when fear and fighting
escalates. No peace when people are insecure and displaced. No
peace when our hearts is filled with bigotry, prejudices, dis-
criminations, retaliations, anger and resentments. No peace when
violence rules, persons are frightened and violated, lives are
loss and properties damaged. No peace when there is no cessa-
At the eve of the Holy Year of 1950 (De- need of shelter for transiting elders. This was tion of hostilities. No peace when there is the vicious exchange
cember 1949) Bishop Rufino J. Santos was the reason for building the Pope Pius XII of firing and shooting between the offenders and defenders. No
appointed Bishop-Administrator of the Dio- Catholic Center at United Nations Avenue peace at all, only a lull, a deadening silence, and the demon of
cese of Lipa shortly after Lipa’s second Local in the 60’s. The vision turned out to be both
Ordinary, Bishop Alfredo Versoza retired. prophetic and practical. Recently, peace is under attack and the
The Batangas parishes were then also slowly Rebuilt from the ashes of Manila’s destruc- wounds of inter-ethnic’s strife marking the
rising up from the destruction wrought by tion during the last war was the Cathedral of history of Mindanao in the mid-70’s and 90’s
the last war. But short though was his epis- the Immaculate Conception in Intramuros at is showing its ugly face. It is in times like this
copal ministry in Batangas, Bishop Rufino the Consecration of which Archbishop when the all-too-much sentiments of anger,
Santos restructured the Lipa Diocesan Major Rufino invited the Arch/Bishops of Asia to fear, hatred and confusion are lumped to-
Seminary by inviting the Congregation of Manila on December 8, 1958. Soon the sense gether, that we urgently appeal to both our
the Immaculate Conception of Mary (CICM), of history of this prelate dictated that centu- Muslim and Christian communities to stay
better known as the “Belgian priests” in or- ries-old Archbishop’s Residence (Residencia calm, vigilant, and work together to protect
der to teach Philosophy and Theology at the del Arzobispo) should be reconstructed at peace and provide security by preventing
Lipa Theologate. Arzobispo Street, the home of all Archbish- atrocious attacks and looting from rebels
Not long after the death of Archbishop ops of Manila since 1581. For three and a half driven by the orgy of madness and violence.
Gabriel Reyes, successor to Archbishop centuries the Episcopal residence (earlier We cannot allow peace and peace process to
called Palacio Del be held hostage by armed group who are
Arzobispo) was at resolved to perpetuate armed conflict.
Cardinal Rufino Intramuros. The lot
Santos’ concern in Mandaluyong, war may ferociously strike again. No peace, but it doesn’t stop
called Villa San us to urgently seek peace, the path of peace, and to pursue it.
for the Church Miguel, was bought What now of peace? Shall we give the name of peace to a
went beyond the only after the de- truce, to a mere laying down of arms, or keeping or register-
ing arms for self-defense. Is it an arrogant exercise of power or
needs of the structions of war to
provide temporary authority? Is it an external order based on violence and fear? Is
Archdiocese of residence for the it a temporary balance of forces, or a trial of strength consist-
Manila to the Archbishop of Ma-
nila who held office
ing in the immobile tension of rival powers? Can we call it a
political script and the game of the generals? (Montalbo, M.B.,
needs of other in Tayuman. Fr., The Church Speaks on Peace, 1990, p. 36). I have my doubts
churches and Cardinal Rufino and my anxiety increases. Peace, we pray and pray, we must.
Santos’ concern for Peace is the courage to deal with the travails of peace and the
the universal the Church went hope to carry on with faith in times like this.
Church. beyond the needs of What is badly needed for peace are conversion and recon-
the Archdiocese of ciliation and healings! It is not enough to suspend war and
Manila to the needs conflicts, to impose truces and armistices, to define boundaries
of other churches and relationships, to create sources of common interests; it is
and the universal not enough to paralyze the possibility of radical strife through
Church. RADIO the terror of suffering and destruction. Progress must be made
VERITAS (Asia) was towards a Peace which is loved, free and just, founded on the
one big example. reconciliation of hearts and healing of the spirit (Montalbo,
R A D I O M.B., Fr., The Church Speaks on Peace, 1990, p. 53). It is there-
Michael O’ Doherty, Bishop VERITAS”Asia be- fore imperative for communities of Christians, Muslims and
Rufino Santos was appointed longs to all the Lumads, led by their respective religious leaders, to bring about
Archbishop of Manila (March 25, Catholic Archbish- durable and lasting peace through integrity of mind and heart,
1953). Seven years later Pope, ops and Bishops of a way to reconciliation and peace, repentance and forgiveness.
now, Blessed John XXIII, ap- Asia, but the good This process bolstered by a sincere and genuine political and
pointed him member of the Col- Cardinal offered not socio-economic reforms and projects can bring peace and de-
lege of Cardinals in the only large tracts of velopment to our people suffering from strife and fear due to
Consistory of March 31, 1960. land for both the an- armed conflict. It is strongly recommended to make this rec-
Several milestones marked tenna farms and the onciliation and healing process a top priority now or during
his Episcopal ministry in the studio centers. He the Mindanao Week of Peace celebration starting November
Local Church of Manila or the offered Manila Arch- 27 until December 3 and beyond (A joint statement of Bishops-
Archdiocese of Manila. These diocese, as PREIC (a Ulama Conference, 6 August 2008, General Santos City).
achievements were in the areas legal body giving Henri Nouwen in his book, the Road to Peace, challenged us
of Priestly Formation, the care identity to the entire peacemakers who embraced the gospel’s spirituality of peace-
for the less fortunate and the evangelization making. In our struggle for peacemaking he challenged us to
expert management of the broadcasting unit as deepen our roots and anchor it in a contemplative spirit and
Church’s resources. the property) that prayerful life. “One of the reasons why so many of us devel-
Faithful to his responsibility comes from the oped strong reservations for peacemaking is precisely because
to care for the training of priests, Church. Without we do not [possess] the peace we seek in us as peacemakers
the new Archbishop took a seri- this vision of the ourselves. Often we are fearful, angry, bitter, resentful, trying
ous step to make changes in the administra- Cardinal Archbishop Rufino Santos, who to convince people of the urgency of our protest or appeal,” he
tion of Manila’s Metropolitan major Semi- worked for the Radio as Manila-based and not said. Thus it is an irony that we peacemakers often reveal more
nary. From the hands of the Spanish-speak- located somewhere at the Indian Sub-Conti- of the demons we are fighting than the peace we want to bring.
ing Vincentian priests (CM), Archbishop nent, possibly New Delhi, there could not have St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of peace, long ago has this
Rufino Santos surprisingly entrusted the en- been Radio Veritas that we know today, and spiritual advice to us, “While you are proclaiming peace with
tire San Carlos Seminary (at the newly built the Word of God in Jesus would not still be your lips,” he said, “be careful to have it more fully in your heart.”
seminary at Highway 54, now EDSA) to the heard in many Asian counties. Our pilgrimage to peace is one of friends and not of hostile
English-speaking CICM (Belgian) priests And like all prophets and teachers he had factions inciting hostility between each other. Though we be-
whom he brought to Manila from the Dioc- his own generous share of sufferings. The long to different classes and tribes, we must band together for
esan Major Seminary of Lipa (1954). Cardinal was many times maligned and mis- peace, listen to God’s call of peace, promoting the culture of
Still on priestly formation, the establish- understood. He had his crosses to bear. And peace through dialogue and respect, praying for peace, acting
ment of the Pontifical Philippine College he lived by what he heard from the Master, for peace, resolutely and ceaselessly seeking peace, pursuing
(Pontificio Collegio Filippino) in Rome was “Whoever does not take up his cross and fol- it, beating the instruments of war into plowshares of integral
through the initiative and principal support low me is not worthy of me.” (Matthew 10:38). development” (Is. 2:4, CBCP, Seek Peace, Pursue it! 31 January
of Archbishop Rufino Santos through the Aside from those who made themselves 1990, Tagaytay City).
Archdiocese of Manila in 1961. enemies, there were many who did not know We commend out efforts for peace to our loving Blessed
In the concern for the needy Cardinal Rufino that the archbishop was seriously ailing. He Mother, Our Lady of Peace, whose birthday we are celebrating
Santos trail-blazed in the pursuit of care for the was an advanced diabetic patient, and fur- today. Because she believed and kept God’s Word, she brought
less fortunate by establishing Catholic Chari- ther unknown to others, a malign brain tu- forth into our world by the power of the Spirit the Prince of
ties that gathered all forms of help for the poor. mor, the size of a tennis ball, was increas- Peace, Jesus the Lord. May the Lord guide our feet into the way
Guided by the unerring motive of love it was ingly pressing his brains. of peace (Lk 1:79). May the grace and peace from God our Fa-
to no one’s surprise that Catholic Charities ef- On 3 September 1973 Rufino Cardinal ther and the Lord Jesus Christ be yours. (1 Cor 1:3)
ficiently metamorphosed into what is now Santos returned to God. So many knew him
Caritas Manila, fifty three-years after. only the way he looked, but so very few saw MOST REV. ELENITO GALIDO, DD
From the immediate need of a residence him the way he was before God. For such a Local Ordinary
for young students (both male and female) man who served both God and men faith- Diocese of Iligan
from the provinces, Cardinal Santos saw fur- fully, even in pain, let us pause for God’s Bless- September 8, 2008
ther than students’ needs to the larger future ings and beg for His Peace!
 CBCP Monitor
B6 Reflections Vol. 12 No. 19
September 15 - 28, 2008

Illustration by Bladimer Usi

Fr. Roy Cimagala

Contraceptive
mentality
THANKS to the sustained efforts through the years to promote family plan-
ning and population control, now dubbed as reproductive health, the world
is practically wrapped in a seemingly invincible contraceptive mentality.
Depending on where one’s faith lies, whether in us or in God, this contra-
ceptive mentality is regarded as a blessing or a curse. I, for the meantime,
consider it a maker of fiction, much like the world of the Kung Fu Panda.
Of course, its consequences are now manifest. But then again, depending
on one’s viewpoint, their reading and interpretations can vary widely. There
are those who say there is now a sharp decline in population growth rate in
many countries. This is good news to some, but bad news to others.
As in…due to this decline, some countries are now facing aging and pos-
sible extinction. In fact, a recent US census observes that by 2040, the whites
in that country will be a minority. The whites are not reproducing enough.
Others have gone a bit wilder by claiming that due to overpopulation, we
have what is now called as global warming. It looks like we are in a wild goose
chase in making some sense out of the data related to the population issue.
In our country, the recent move to approve the reproductive health bill is

God gifts
actually a clever effort to make this contraceptive mentality even more domi-
nant while giving an opening to abortion. That’s the bare bones of the bill.
It is banked on the assumption that there is widespread poverty and igno-
rance in sex and reproduction, and that so-called women’s reproductive rights
be accorded almost unconditional accommodation.
This is the contraceptive mentality at work. Its controlling logic does not
stop until no one’s left in the world. Or until its proponents achieve what
they consider as their heaven here on earth. To them there’s nothing super-
natural about heaven at all.
This contraceptive mentality is now so pervasive that even in the Church
25th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Mt. 20: 1-16a, Sept. 21, 2008)
itself, its claws and fangs are also showing. Some circles are touting the idea
of mainstreaming the natural family planning methods. By Msgr. Rigoberto S. quite easily complain: “Un- My way! My own! My parish my own” as against the ten-
Nothing wrong there, except that they seem not contented with making de Guzman fair! That’s unfair! Life is so as my kingdom! The attitude dency to give, share with and
natural family planning as an adjunct to the doctrine of responsible parent- unfair!” The standard judg- of PRIDE as I assume the role distribute to others as well.
hood. It has to be the core and essence of responsible parenthood. ment of the world, “Ano ba of God, bearing fruit in the sin Stinginess as against lavish-
Oh yes, they still do a lot of lip service to the official Church line on WHEN read the parable for ‘yan! ‘Yun pang mga tamad at of greed, and even envy. “I ness.
responsible parenthood. But the theory is hardly translated into practice. In the first time, what feelings tambay ang ginagantimpalaan… am not just servant or a stew- The landowner is said to be
practice, all efforts are focused in teaching everyone, at the slightest excuse, emerge? Whose side do you Dapat binabalewala na lang ang ard, I AM the owner!” “I have a type of our generous and
the skills of natural family planning. take? mga tamad at tambay na ‘yan!” been serving this parish for a gracious Lord. The Lord is not
Natural family planning has become in effect a part of the contraceptive At first glance, one tends to But when one reads the long time—longer than any- only a God of justice and
mentality. It’s not anymore a living component of a couple’s effort to prac- identify more with laborers parable over and over again body else and I don’t get the laws—period! He is also a
tice responsible parenthood and conjugal chastity, to be resorted to when “who bore the whole day’s and tries to understand the recognition I deserve! To God of mercy, compassion
conditions warrant it. burden and the heat.” They side of the landowner, a much make matters worse, the par- and unimaginable generos-
It has become a kind of Catholic-approved method to achieve family plan- worked longer. They exerted deeper level surfaces. Was he ish priest listens to those ity… Do we rejoice that the
ning, birth and population control, and now reproductive health. more effort. They logged in really unfair and unjust? If Johnnies—come-lately more Lord is a generous and gra-
In fact, chastity is hardly mentioned, if ever, in the modules that I so far more hours of work. And then so, how? “Did I cheat you? than he listens to me… Un- cious God? Or do we want a
have heard. It’s skills on how to determine the fertile and infertile periods of they get the same compensa- Did you not agree with me fair!” God according to our own
a woman, or the safe and unsafe period to make love. Any chastity talk is tion as the ones who worked for the usual daily wage? Am I really serving God image with the same shallow,
supposed to already intrude the sanctity of personal conscience. only for an hour or so. What’s What if I wish to give this last and the Church or am I only narrow and parochial stan-
A priest promoting it had the gumption to say that in his parish, made up going on? one the same as you? Am I serving myself? dards who will think and
mostly of poor couples, he pities them because every time he talks about In the words of 366 Days not free to do as I wish with Do you notice the contrast judge the way most people
responsible parenthood, the people just bow down in shame because they with the Lord of St. Paul’s my own money?” in orientation between the do?
know, according to him, that they are not following the Church teaching. Publication, “if Jesus were There is a problem when first laborers and the land- Despite the many prob-
The priest’s conclusion was to teach them natural family planning. It did not telling the parable… for the the workers seemed to claim owner in the parable? lems we face and the many
occur to him to step up on his teaching about the practical aspects of conjugal first time in today’s media, the landowner’s money as The laborers expected and mistakes we make, the Lord
chastity. I suppose it’s far easier to teach natural family planning than to go there would most likely be their own, not his. There is a wanted more for themselves has not abandoned us. In fact,
through the hell of teaching the intricacies of conjugal love and chastity. demonstrations in the problem when we tend to while the landowner was go- He has blessed us much, much
Aggravating this is the surprising tendency to almost exclusively pro- streets,” an unending stream take the place of God and lay ing out of his vineyard time more than we ever deserve.
mote one natural family planning method, called the Standard Days Method, of phone calls from every claim on what is rightfully and again—not just once or He has given each one of us
which is the least effective of the methods and the most vulnerable to be union hall in the country and God’s. God’s gifts and bless- twice—in search of more gifts and graces—not for one-
complemented with artificial contraception. workers carrying picket ings as mine. My right! My workers, more people to self alone, but for the growth
It’s a method that is not much different from the notorious calendar method. signs of protest. We are very due! My reward for my good- share his goodness with. Self- of the community; in the hope
Its promotion resurrects and feeds past suspicions that there’s a conspiracy sensitive to the slightest im- ness! This is my turf! My pri- ishness as against selflessness. that we become His special
to contaminate the Church position on responsible parenthood with the pingement on our rights. We vate property! My position! The tendency to possess “as gift to one another.
contraceptive mentality.
In fact, there is evidence that groups promoting this method are funded

Let St. Paul’s voice be

and aided by anti-life groups.

heard anew
Bo Sanchez

In every trial,
there is a treasure By Bernardita Dianzon, FSP
The challenge of the Pauline Year
I NOW realize that joy or misery is a choice that we have to make daily. The gospel, which according to Paul,
This came to me strongly when one day, I was driving in Novaliches with he received by revelation from Jesus Christ
my family to visit some relatives. Because of the enormous roadwork there, (Gal 1:12), is envisioned to create not only
we got lost taking alternative routes. Besides, Novaliches is famous for an a bunch of pious individuals, but com-
amazingly circuitous network of streets—reminding me of my intestines. munities of believers who are conscious
“Can you help us find this address?” my Mom asked a guy driving a little of their connectedness among them-
jeep. “Sure,” he said, “follow me. I’m going in that direction…” selves and with the rest of creation, and
And we did: For about two hours! He led us through the inner labyrinths convinced that they are called to partici-
of Novaliches. Through dark alleys. Through pot holes. Through dirt roads. pate in bringing to fulfillment God’s
In total, we took 32 rights, 47 lefts, and 13 U-turns. purposes for the world. Sadly, though,
All the while, my family was complaining like crazy. “We’re lost!” they from the time of the Reformation until
whined. “Oh, why all these roadwork at the same time?” another grumbled. the last quarter of the twentieth century,
“And who’s this guy leading us anyway? We don’t know him at all! He Paul’s spirituality has been wrongly in-
could be…” And there was a tense-filled pause. Finally, one family mem- terpreted as individual-centered, one
ber said, “Oh my God. We’re being kidnapped! WE’RE BEING KIDNAPPED that is concerned simply with the rela-
BY THAT MAN!” (Divulging identities of who said what has proven haz- tionship between God and the individual
ardous to my health, so I’ll refrain from mentioning names here.) Christian. Such interpretation has clearly
I had to laugh and say, “C’mon, the guy doesn’t look like a kidnapper at all…” shaped a brand of Christianity that can
“Really? Good…” sighed everyone. only be described as “aloof” and
“He’s no kidnapper,” I shook my head, “I think he’s a serial killer.” “minimalist.” How many Catholics still
Boy, were they mad and miserable. believe that attending Mass on Sunday
What was I doing all this time? is enough to fulfill their Christian obli-
Aside from driving for them, I was singing. I was having the time of my gation? How many of the shamelessly-
life. I was excited making those zigs and zags! Under my breath, I prayed, rich (!) Filipinos believe that by simply
“Lord, I thank you that I feel like Indiana Jones trapped in a maze. What a giving a certain amount to the Church
thrilling adventure!” or to charitable institutions, they can
Generally, I was thanking God for blessing us. I was thanking God for appease their consciences, even when the
those rare times that I’m with my family—no matter how crazy they can be. majority of our people continue to live
I was thanking God for my car. I was thanking God for the relatives we were below poverty line?
visiting. I was thanking God for sending us an angel as our guide—using a Today, New Testament scholars are
serial killer to lead our way. Because I was so busy being grateful, I realized recovering Paul’s community-based and
I didn’t have time to be miserable! corporate concerns and re-proposing a
When we finally reached the home of our relatives, my family stepped Pauline spirituality of communion
down from the car with angry exasperation. And that was when the real coupled with an ethic that is conscious
performance began. (All the complaining they did in the car was just dress of global responsibility. But this recov-
rehearsal.) “We had a terrrrrrrrible time!” they griped in unison as they ered interpretation of Paul still needs to
greeted our cousins. As they were replaying their sad ordeal to them, I be propagated and to become part of
opened the car door, stepped down, stretched my tired muscles, and smiled, both our individual and collective con-
“Ahhh…. Now was that exciting or what?” sciousness, in order for it to have a sig-
One week after, every time my family got together, they’d still grumble nificant impact on our society. The
and relive the agony of that trip. (At some special days, the “Nightmare in Pauline Year, I believe, is an opportune
Novaliches” had matinee shows in the afternoons and main performances time to allow Paul’s voice to be heard
in the evenings.) anew. And pastors have a big role to
But I recall the event with sweetness. And fun! play in this regard. I do not think that it
Because every morning, I face the mirror and tell myself, “Bo, no one can was only by chance or out of whim that
take away your joy. This is the day that the Lord has made, let us rejoice and Pope Benedict XVI proclaimed June 2008
be glad in it!” to June 2009 as Year of St. Paul. I see it,
Because I believe that in every problem, there’s a rich blessing. rather, as a much-needed response to the
In every trial, there’s a treasure waiting to be unearthed. glaring signs of the times. Who, today,
can still deny that global warming is a
reality that threatens life and survival
on planet earth? In the first century, Paul
already wrote about the groaning of cre-
ation (cf. Rom 8:22). That Pauline expres-
sion may have been an abstract concept
in the early centuries, but not anymore
today. It is now a reality that touches
our very skin, affects the air we breathe,
the food we take in, our relationship
with all other forms of life—vegetative,
animal, and all of sub-human creation.
Many of our contemporary problems are
undeniably communal and global in
nature. The gospel that Paul proclaimed
in the first century awakened in its hear-
ers the sense of sharing a common nar-
rative, not only as the community of the
saved but as a community that saves by al-
lowing their lives to become channels
of the power that flowed from the cross.
Paul’s proclamation gave birth to com-
munities that were conscious of being
the Messiah’s extension in time and his-
tory. This consciousness has been lost to
many Christians of our generation. One
reason—perhaps the principal one—is
aptly expressed in the following obser-
vation by Pauline scholar and Catholic
priest, Frank Matera: “It is unfortunate
that there is such silence from the pulpit
when it comes to preaching from the
Pauline texts... The silencing of Paul’s
voice… deprives the congregation of an
aspect of the gospel that Paul presents in
a distinctive manner.” 1
I hope that the implication of the
above-quoted remark would not be lost
on the readers of this article, for therein
lies precisely the challenge of celebrat-
ing the bimillennium of the birth of the
Apostle Paul.
Important considerations
The message of Paul can be likened to
an ancient painting which, over the cen-
turies, has been retouched by different
hands, so that the original contours and
colors have become overlaid, and now
barely give us a glimpse of the master-
piece that the work had been.
Today many Catholics still read Paul
through the fifth-century lenses of St.
Augustine and the sixteenth-century
lenses of the Reformation controversy.
Our Catholic Catechism still attributes
to Paul the understanding of “Original”
Sin as the guilt that we inherit when we
somehow sinned “in Adam” before we
were born. That view may be traditional,
but as Jesuit Pauline scholar, Brendan
Byrne, asserts, “… it is not right on the
basis of a mistranslation of the Greek
text of Rom 5:12 to foist it on to Paul.”2
Baptism, as we know it today, is a far
cry from how Paul understood and
taught it in the first century. For Paul, it
is the initiation into the transformative
experience of dying and rising with Christ
within the context of community, where
believers mutually support one another
in living the gift of new life. It calls for a
mature commitment on the part of the
baptized. But with infant baptism be-
coming the normative practice—where
pouring water on the child’s head fo-
cuses the ritual on the cleansing of
“original” sin—the process of daily dy-
ing and rising with Christ in the com-
pany of the community of believers, does
not even get the chance to take off.
Should we still wonder why there are so
many nominal Filipino Catholics or how
corruption has gained a firm foothold
in the “only Catholic country in Asia”?
I guess we have to begin somewhere
to recognize the loopholes in our appro-
priation of biblical teachings, and to
evaluate the influence that such manner
of appropriation has on our pastoral
praxis. One question has been vexing
me, and I would like to conclude this
article by inviting the readers to join me
in mulling over it. If a later tradition of
interpretation obscures the original biblical
teaching, to which do we owe our allegiance?
(Footnotes)
1
Strategies for Preaching Paul (Pasay: Paulines
Publishing House, 2008), vi, 2.
2
Inheriting the Earth (Homebush: Alba House,
1990), 25-26. The mistranslation consisted of
reading the final clause of Paul’s sentence as
“in whom all sinned”—the “whom” referring to
Adam. This is certainly wrong, for it translates
literally an idiomatic expression which is prop-
erly rendered as “because” or “inasmuch as”
or “since,” explaining the universality of hu-
man sinning as the reason why human beings
die.
 CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 19
September 15 - 28, 2008 Social Concerns B7

TThe
he meaning
meaning of
of m
myy mission
mission
By Fr. Shay Cullen
A CASE like 6-year-old Rosie
looking out from behind prison
bars or 13-year-old Josie prosti-
tuted to foreign men in a sex bar
in Angeles city is enough to drive
a normal person to anger, frus-
tration and despair.
Because it seemed to me at first
that nothing could be done about
it since some corrupt police, gov-
ernment officials and criminals
of all nationalities are perpetra-
tors, protectors and beneficiaries
of the sexual slavery of women
and children in the Philippines
for over fifty years.
Finding and trying to rescue
children in prison, kids on the
streets and in brothels are what
motivated me to start the Preda
Foundation in 1974, (People’s Re-
covery Empowerment Develop-
ment Assistance Foundation).
This was what mission is for
me; to free the captives, bring
God’s love to the unloved, change
the system of injustice that vio-
lates human rights and stifled
dissent and protest.
The Preda children’s homes are
happy communities with family
life-style where all the kids are
safe, accepted, understood, af-
firmed and empowered. The
homes are therapeutic healing
centers for children and youth
who have been abused and vio-
lated.
There are homes too for the
young boys rescued from the
brutalities of prisons and youth
detention centers where they suf-
fered abuse, hunger and disease
in sub-human conditions.
The 76 team members at Preda
work together to change the
harsh attitudes of officials to be
more understanding and non-
punitive towards children and
try to implement the laws and
change the corrupt system that
hurts children.
The Preda social workers and
therapists save and heal the vic-
tims of neglect and abuse. The
therapy is helping them over-
come the trauma, anger, and bur-
ied violence and revenge seek-
ing in retaliation for abuse.
Violence, both emotional and
physical, is frequently traced to
their experience of family neglect
and rejection, community ridi-
cule and punishment and being
severely abused and traumatized,
imprisoned in subhuman condi-
tions in Philippine jails with adult
criminals, murderers and rapists.
Little has changed since the in-
troduction of new laws forbid-
ding child imprisonment and
providing alternatives.
And politicians have done
little substantial to stop the traf-
ficking of women and children
into the sex industry that thrives
on foreign customers.
At the residential Preda Homes
for youth and children we have
many children that have been
rescued from dire circumstances,
they have suffered, physically,
psychologically, sexually and
emotionally.
They also experience a wide
“Finding and trying to rescue children in prison, kids on the
streets and in brothels are what motivated me to start the
Preda Foundation in 1974, (People’s Recovery Empowerment
Development Assistance Foundation). This was what mission
is for me; to free the captives, bring God’s love to the unloved,
change the system of injustice that violates human rights and
stifled dissent and protest.”
their children and beat them into
submission at a young age.
Incest is the most vicious and
damaging form of violence
against the child. Trafficking into
the sex industry is also a massive
problem and leaves the victims
totally powerless and owned by
the sex bar operators.
Many of the children are run-
aways driven out of their homes
by abusive parents.
Out of 46 sexually abused chil-
dren at the Preda home for girls,
20 are victims of incest. Getting
justice for them is the hardest
task of all.
But we never give up but in-
range of hurt, carry feelings of despair. That’s where the emo- sion and cry them out. flicted by people in authority stead we are trying new ap-
rejection, worthlessness, being tional expression therapy at the The release is immense and it more dominant and powerful proaches, speaking out demand-
unloved, unwanted, misunder- Preda home is a healing and re- enables them to unburden them- than them; the school bully, the ing justice, saving more children
stood, abandoned, unheard, lease. When they feel ready and selves and be free of tension and cruel teacher, the jealous class- and trying to change the callous
falsely accused and feeling acute want to they can go with the stress and grow within them- mate, the uncaring and over strict and corrupt society that allows
injustice. therapist to the padded and selves. disciplinary parents. this to happen with impunity.
They have no one to turn to soundproof therapy room and Children and youth are pow- In all societies and all nation- That needs the help of all who
where they will feel understood freely express their pent up emo- erless to solve these powerful and alities there are parents and believe in truth, human rights and
accepted and listened to. They feel tions of anger, pain and aggres- destructive feelings of anger in- pedophiles who sexually abuse justice.

7 Question / B4 Laity / B4

meeting of the priests, religious and lay
cooperators in the diocese the body de-
cided that all the parishes would launch
a signature campaign against the pass-
ing of the bill. It is hoped that this would
produce good results and that the exer-
cise would be an educating process for
the people.
How does the diocese deal with destruc-
tive mining practices and illegal logging
which caused a lot of destruction in lives
and resources both in the diocese and in
other parts of the country?
The stand of the diocese is NO to all
mining whether large scale or small scale.
We don’t distinguish between respon-
sible and irresponsible mining because
even if the distinction may be valid in
theory we believe that de facto there can
be no responsible mining in the country.
The diocese faces a big challenge in try-
ing to educate and organize the people
regarding the mining issue. There are
initiatives both at the DOPIM and Dioc-
esan level. The more difficult and more
important challenge is how to get the
people organized in order to effectively
address the issue. There are moves along
this level. The stand of the diocese inevi-
tably puts us in a collision course with
the government because of the govern-
ment policy on it. But we have not dis-
carded the possibility of achieving some-
thing positive through dialogue. We have
done this with the DENR on the national
level, with the Provincial governor and
mayors on the local level. This has not
resulted so far into concrete actions apart
from fact finding groups being sent by
the government. There is a lot of talk. But
it is only that: talk.
How do you deal with the problem of
gambling especially STL and jueteng,
in your diocese?
Gambling is undoubtedly one of the
major problems we are facing because
of its rampant practice especially among
the poor. Through the pulpit, seminars,
retreat, and informal discussions we try
to point out to the people that the poor
are the main victims of this form of can-
cer, that a sense of false hope is being
created among them, that they wrongly
hope it would bring them quick money
without having to sweat for it, that it
only helps to create a culture of laziness
in them. Yet gambling continues. We
believe that no form of gambling can
thrive without protection. Even if we can
not prove it with documents we are con-
vinced that there is protection by people
in authority. That makes it even more
difficult for us to combat gambling. The
irony is that it is at the expense of the
poor that the rich and powerful—who
claim to be Christians—become even
richer and more powerful.
Vigilance, a Critical Element in trans-
forming society; and Values Formation
Key to Social Transformation.
In 2005, the convention theme was Lay
Empowerment According to Vatican II
and the Code of Canon Law. The key-
note speech was Empowering the Laity
Today. Other topics discussed included
Lay Empowerment according to Vatican
Council; Lay Empowerment according
to the Code of Canon Law; Associations
(Private and Public) of Christian People
in Canon Law; Parish Pastoral councils,
Diocesan Pastoral councils, and Diocesan
councils of the Laity in Canon Law
In 2007, the theme was A Path to Unity,
aimed to get acquainted with Pope
Benedict XVI’s teachings on love and
charity. The speakers discussed the top-
ics of Deus Caritas Est and Unity; Petrine
and Marian Profile of the Church;
Benedict XVI Apostolic Exhortation, Sac-
ramentum Caritatis; and Reciprocal love
This year’s (2008) theme focuses on The
Laity: Primary Agents of Change, To-
wards Honesty and Integrity for Good
Governance.
ence from what social workers do. The so-
cial teachings of the Church are the best
instruments for social transmission.
Thus, when we speak of Christian so-
cial transformation we do not look only
at the others, we examine ourselves,
firstly…We work at Christian social
transformation based on the realm of
faith and morals, based on the realm of
grace, of the Divine…of the eternal.
Christian social transformation is some-
thing we should do in our lifetime, and
to pass it on to our children.
If we put really our hearts and minds
together, we are capable of doing some-
thing for this Church and our society,
no matter how small, we can make a dif-
ference.
Dr. Linda T. Tacorda, PhD. is the National
President of the Sangguniang Laiko ng
Pilipinas, the lay arm of the Episcopal Com-
mission on the Laity of the Catholic Bishops
Conference of the Philippines.
(Footnotes)
1
The Council for the Laity uses the preposition
for and not of. Why? Take note that this is one of
the offices of the Vatican and the heads are the

CBCPMonitor Name _________________________________________________ A call to change cardinals. Thus it seems contradictory that a
All these years, especially since 2003, cardinal who is not a lay person heads what is
(Family Name) (Given Name) (Middle Name) there was a recurring call to change.
supposed to be a group of lay people. That is
why, it uses a preposition for to indicate that
Clearly then, the overall message of the this is a pontifical council servicing for the af-
SUBSCRIPTION RATES Mailing Address 2008 poster is a renewed call and chal- fairs of the lay faithful.
lenge to the Laity to ACT. It is the PRI- 2 PAUL VI, Insegnamenti IX (1971), 1051 as cited

The CBCP Monitor is published
fortnightly by the CBCP Media Of-
________________________________________________________________________________________________ MARY agent of change. in “The Pontifical Council for the Laity” (Vatican
City: 1997), 7. 3 “The Pontifical Council for the
This year’s observance of the National
Phone No.: ________ Fax No.: ________ E-mail: ___________ Laity” (Vatican City: 1997), p. 7.
Laity Week commemorates the 20th an-
Mode of Payment niversary of the Apostolic Exhortation
4 “The Pontifical Council for the Laity” (Vatican

City: 1997), p. 9.
fice, with editorial and business of- Check/PMO enclosed Cash Payment Christifi-deles laici, the magna carta on the
fices at 470 Gen. Luna St., laity, a post Synodal document on the 5 Ibid.

Intramuros, Manila. PO Box 3601, (Payable to: CBCP Communications Development Foundation Inc.) vocation and mission of the lay faithful 6
The necessity of a consistent and effective pres-
1076 MCPO in the Church and in the world. ence of lay Christians in sectors of vital impor-
tance for society, implies priority for the ad-
• Domestic ________________________ An on-going challenge to LAIKO
equate formation and pastoral accompaniment
for lay people who have posts of responsibility
1 Year Php 500.00 Signature As lay people, our effort should be to- in the “secular city”. This clearly supposes a
2 Years Php 900.00 wards Christian transformation. We must deep knowledge of the Church’s Social Teach-
ing. The Pontifical Council for the Laity there-
• Foreign: Asia PLEASE SEND TO: help raise the level of faith and morals. fore takes a particular interest in programmes
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 CBCP Monitor
B8 Entertainment Vol. 12 No. 19
September 15 - 28, 2008

Moral Assessment Technical CINEMA Rating Guide

Assessment
Abhorrent VA - For viewers of all ages
Disturbing Poor V13 - For viewers age 13 and below
Acceptable Below average with parental guidance
Wholesome Average V14 - For viewers 14 and above
Exemplary Above average V18 - For mature viewers 18 and above
Excellent NP - Not for public viewing

Title: Righteous Kill
Cast: Robert de Niro, Al Pacino
Director: Jon Avnet
Producers: Rob Cowan, Avil Randall
Emmette, John Avnet, Lati
Brobman, Alexander Michan,
Daniel Rosenberg
Screenwriter: Russell Gewirtz
Music: Ed Shearmur
Editor: Paul Hirsch
Genre: Action/ Crime
Cinematography: Denis Lenoir
Distributor: Overture Films
Location: USA
Running Time: 100 min.
Technical Assessment:
Moral Assessment: ½
CINEMA Rating: For viewers 14 and
above
AFTER 30 years as partners in NYPD,
highly decorated Detectives David Fisk
a.k.a Turk (Al Pacino) and Thomas
Cowan aka Rooster (Robert De Niro)
should be ready for retirement, but
aren’t. Before they can hang up their
badges, they are called in to investigate
the murder of a notorious pimp, which
appears to have ties to a case they solved
years ago. Like the original murder, the
victim is a suspected criminal whose
body is found with a four line poem jus-
tifying the killing. When additional
crimes take place with the same nature
and trademark poem, it becomes clear
Turk and Rooster are looking for a se-
rial killer, one who targets criminals that
have managed to go around the defec-
tive judicial system. The serial killer’s
mission is to do what the cops can’t do
on their own—take the culprits off the
streets for good. The similarities be-
tween the recent killings and their ear-
lier case raise a nagging question: Did
they put the wrong man behind bars?
Righteous Kill can be a run-of-the-
mill, forgettable crime thriller but the
presence of De Niro and Pacino has made
all the difference. As expected, the tan-
dem of the two award-winning Holly-
wood veterans has pulled the entire fea-
ture off from start to finish. The
storytelling has succeeded in mislead-
ing the audience’s gut feel, a true mark
of a suspense-thriller. The secrets and
revelations are sustained to the end. Al-
though the script has the tendency to be
a bit talky and dragging for the genre, it
can be forgiven for as long as De Niro
and Pacino are the ones seen delivering
the kilometric lines.
Is there really such a thing as a “righ-
teous kill”? The movie tells the audience
how erroneous the judicial system can
get even in a supposed to be progres-
sive and sophisticated state as New York.
Given such reality, one may resort to
extra-judicial means like a modern-day
Robin Hood and in the tradition of Dirty
Harry. However, there really is no way
an end can justify the means. A crime is
a crime however one puts it. Righteous
Kill does not condone crime in any form.
Looking at the film in its entire context,
justice prevails in the story amidst the
dilemma of jeopardizing friendships and
treasured relationships. Righteous Kill
does not glorify criminals however
noble their purpose and no matter how
dark their past has been which has turned
them into dark human beings. But then,
audiences should be cautioned and
guided on the presence of drugs, alco-
hol, racism and some scenes connoting
hatred to Catholic clergy and the des-
ecration of the church and its sacrament
of reconciliation as these scenes may fur-
ther cultivate the “mean world syn-
drome” among the young and vulner-
able minds.

MAC en COLET Ni Bladimer Usi

Buhay Parokya
By Bladimer Usi
There are three missing articles in this cartoon.
Find the image of St. John the Apostle, image of
Archangel Gabriel and a Church Songbook

Title: Hellboy II
Cast: Ron Perlman, Selma Blair, Doug Jones, Anna Walton,
Luke Gross, Jeffrey Tambor
Director: Guillermo del Toro; Producers: Laurence Gordon,
Mike Richardson, Lloyd Levin
Screenwriters: Guillermo del Toro, Mike Mignola
Music: Danny Elfman
Editor: Bernat Vilaplana
Genre: Fiction/ Action/ Adventure
Cinematography: Guillermo Navarro
Distributor: Universal Pictures
Location: USA
Running Time: 120 min.
Technical Assessment: ½
Moral Assessment: ½
CINEMA Rating: For viewers 14 and above

THE humans and other beings
had their truce a long way back
when they agreed to split into
settlements in separate areas.
But now, the moment has
come when war is in the air.
The human Prince Nuada
(Luke Gross) in defiance of his
king father is instigating a con-
flict between him and all the
rest around their territory.
Nuada’s goals are to find and
put together the three pieces
of a crown, which when com-
pleted would make him the
new king of the original
conglomeratation of humans
and other living beings; at the
same time the conflict will
cause the awakening of hun-
dreds of mechanical soldiers
long stored idle, which would
get him his goal. Unfortu-
nately however, his twin sis-
ter Nuala (Anna Walton) is
clearly against his decision.
Unknown to Nuada however,
there is Hellboy “Red” (Ron
Perlman) a really incredible
hulk, has Nuala’s crown piece
in keeping, and ready to fight
for her and the people.
Hellboy is an interestingly
put together story filled with
suspense and adventure. No
doubt. Ron Perlman is very
good at projecting his charac-
ter; he looks real and convinc-
ing, as a capable and extraor-
dinary hulk, is able to do what
others can’t. His sometimes
soft character is touching. The
visual effects are well pre-
sented as scenes of old and an-
cient times in different shades
of light and darkness are
shown. The ensemble acting is
also impressive as flashed on
the screen. The use of CGI’s
improve and enhance what are
displayed and they appear
more real. One possible draw-
back for some viewers would
be the problem of identifying
individual characters and
where they belong. The over-
all value of the movie is the
presentation of the good fight-
ing against what is evil. Here
is Hellboy and Princess Nuala
(Anna Walton) leading the
good against the evil ones led
by Prince Nuada. There is
Hellboy, with the assistance of
a group of investigators and
researchers helping and de-
fending humans from evil
power. There are evil spirits
in the world. People can con-
quer the immortal enemy with
the help of someone stronger
than oneself. Hellboy plays the
role of the savior and defender
of human beings attacked by
evil spirits.
Vulgar language is at a mini-
mum, while violence is shown
frequently as it is needed for a
major part of the story. Because
these scenes could cause fre-
quent emotional stress for
younger viewers, CINEMA
recommends that only those 14
years old and above be al-
lowed to watch Hellboy 2: The
Golden Army.
 CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 19
September 15 - 28, 2008
Vol. XXVI No. 122
DOCETE A Catechetical Publication of the Episcopal Commission on Catechesis and Catholic Education
General Assembly of
Photo courtesy of ECCCE
Catechetical Ministers held
in General Santos City
By Sr. Jesusa Enginco, OP
THE Episcopal Commission on Catechesis and
Catholic Education (ECCCE) held its Annual Meet-
ing of Catechetical Ministers (AMCM) at the Fam-
ily Country Hotel and Convention Center in Gen-
eral Santos City last July 7–11, 2008.
A total of 130 participants comprised of Dioc-
esan Catechetical Directors and Coordinators and
Directors/Directresses of Catechetical Centers and
Colleges with Religious Education came from the
different dioceses all over the Philippines.
The theme for this year’s assembly—
”CATECHESIS IN THE SERVICE OF THE EUCHA-
RIST”—was derived from the following objectives:
1) to provide Catechetical Directors/Coordinators
Summer Catechetical Institute
for Priests
By Msgr. Gerardo Santos
LAST April 14-18, 2008, the Episcopal Commis-
sion on Catechesis and Catholic Education
(ECCCE) conducted a “Summer Catechetical Insti-
tute for Priests” at the Sta. Catalina Spirituality
Center in Baguio City. The participants of the
said event, 68 in all, comprised of Catechetical
Directors coming from the different archdio-
ceses, dioceses, prelatures and apostolic vicari-
ates nationwide.
The event, which had the theme “THAT
CHRIST BE FORMED IN US”, had the following
objectives: to gather in the spirit of communion
in mission the diocesan catechetical directors; to
undertake the basic formation for catechetical
directors in the framework of the GDC and
NCDP ’07; and finally, to identify a plan of ac-
tion for catechetical directors.
Our Chairman, Most Rev. Socrates B. Villegas,
DD commenced the five-day course with an in-
spiring Overview of the whole Training Pro-
gram, during their orientation on the first day.
Participants were supplied on their second day,
with ample information coming from invited
speakers starting off with Rev. Msgr. Hernando
Guanzon (from the Diocese of Balanga), who gave
his Theological Reflections Regarding the Min-
istry. CBCP Assistant Secretary General Msgr.
Joselito Asis followed afterwards with his con-
ference on the Canonical Provisions on
Catechetical Instruction in the 1983 Code of
Canon Law. I handled the 4th and 5th Conferences
which covers the Principles of Pastoral Man-
agement.
Heavy but inspiring sessions also filled the
third day, starting with their first speaker,
ECCCE’s Chairman Emeritus and highly re-
spected Archbishop of Caceres, Most Rev.
Leonardo Legaspi, OP, DD, who covered the 6th
and 7th Conferences with his lecture “Toward a
Practical Sketch of ECCCE’s Vision of
Catechesis”. Two exceedingly experienced
catechetical coordinators – Ms. Ophine Javier
(from the diocese of Novaliches) and Ms. Annette
Angeles (from the diocese of Kalookan) “ handled
the 8th conference which is about the Catechetical
and formators with a theologico”pastoral orienta-
tion on Ecclesiae de Eucharistia and Sacramentum
Caritatis in solidarity with the FABC General As-
sembly on the Eucharist in 2009; 2) to identify plans
of action in various dioceses in view of animating
the people of God towards a deeper devotion to
the Eucharist; and 3) to promote a Eucharistic Spiri-
tuality among catechetical workers.
The 5-day assembly was commenced by ECCCE
Chairman, His Excellency Most Rev. Socrates B.
Villegas, DD through his Welcome Address, fol-
lowed by Msgr. Gerardo Santos who gave a Report
on the Summer Catechetical Institute for Priests
which was held at the Sta. Catalina Spirituality
Center, Baguio City last April 14-18, 2008.
The event with the theme “THAT CHRIST BE
FORMED IN US”, had the following objectives: to
Methodology based on the New NCDP.
Most Rev. Gilbert Garcera, DD (Bishop of Daet,
ECCCE’s Vice Chairman and the National Direc-
tor of the Pontifical Mission Societies of the Philip-
pines) presented on the 4th day, the 9th conference of
the course - Organization, Personnel and Resources
of Catechesis which comprise Chapter VI of the
New NCDP. The 10th and last conference was rather
distinct from the previous conferences since it is a
sharing of Catechetical Experiences coming from
the 3 major regions of the country - Luzon, Visayas
and Mindanao. Representing Northern Luzon is
Abbot Santos Rabang who gave a clear picture of
the Catechetical Praxis in Nueva Segovia. The
Mindanao group on the other hand was represented
by Fr. Bobby Cena and Fr. Noel Pedregosa who
presented their Journey Series, a project of the dio-
cese of Malaybalay. The last sharing came from the
Visayas region represented by Msgr. John Luza,
who gave an illustration of the Catechesis in the
Archdiocese of Capiz.
During the course of the said assembly, series of
Workshops were also conducted to give the par-
ticipants enough time to interact with fellow
catechetical directors and so that we can also assess
their thoughts and feelings about the training pro-
gram.
A great majority of the respondents appreciated
all the topics given to them. They found them rel-
evant and significant to their work as diocesan
catechetical directors more particularly the one on
Pastoral Management. Those who are at a loss in
their assignment in the catechetical ministry were
given direction and were enlightened on the real
importance of catechesis in the Church’s mission.
They were challenged to be good shepherds of the
flock given to them. More importantly, they were
inspired to move on with their mission as minis-
ters, guided by the Vision of Catechesis.
Through the workshops, we were also able to
have a clear view of the actual situation in their
respective archdiocese, diocese, prelature or apos-
tolic vicariate. These collated data will be of great
help to the Commission in our evaluation of the
present catechetical scenario in the Philippines and
C1
gather in the spirit of communion in mission the between and among various Episcopal Commissions
diocesan catechetical directors; to undertake the ba- on education/catechesis, educators, chaplains, parents,
sic formation for catechetical directors in the frame- educational organizations/associations and youth on
work of the GDC and NCDP ’07; and finally, to their: a) understanding of the Eucharist in education;
identify a plan of action for catechetical directors. b) how they celebrate the Eucharist in their schools/
Dr. Emil Canlas gave a report on the proceeding institutions; c) how they live the Eucharist in their
of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences respective Institutions/schools;
Consultation Meeting on Eucharist and Education 3. To recommend practical and pastoral ways
in Asia held last 25-30 May 2008 at the Assumption and means on how to make Catholic schools and
University, Suvarnabhumi Campus. Bangkok, Thai- other institutions of learning Eucharistic in the con-
land. The objectives of the said convention were text of Asia…belongingness, being, celebrating and
the following: sharing the Eucharist.
1. To reflect on the significance and implications On the second day, Fr. Anscar Chupungco, OSB
of Pope Benedict XVI Post-Synodal Apostolic Ex- an expert on liturgy presented two important docu-
hortation on the Eucharist, Sacramentum Caritatis, ments: a) Ecclesia de Eucharistia and Catechesis, and
in Education in Asia; b) Sacramentum Caritatis and Catechesis. He chal-
2. To consult and exchange insights and experiences AMCM / C2
the areas which need Participants of the Summer Catechetical Institute for Priests during a group sharing activity
improvement. where they discussed the strengths and weaknesses that characterize the implementation of the
catechetical program in their dioceses/parishes.
Organizational As-
sessment
Responses were
categorized into
STRENGTHS and
WEAKNESSES on
each area /field: DIO-
CESE, DIOCESAN
CATECHETICAL OF-
FICE, PARISH,
PRESBYTERIUM, and
the CATECHISTS.
Allow me to share
with you the collated
data which are note-
worthy:
A. THE STRENGTHS
(LIGHTS):
In general, their re-
spective dioceses and
as well as down to the Photo courtesy of ECCCE
parishes, have shown
full support for the
catechetical ministry, spearheaded by their good 8. regular salary for staff, coordinators and full-
bishop who believes that Catechesis should be one time catechists and other benefits such as SSS,
of the main thrusts of the diocese. Assistance comes Philhealth, etc.
in these forms: 9. a well-equipped diocesan catechetical office
1. catechetical and evangelization program is and formation center/ parish catechetical office
top priority in the pastoral plan 10. availability of catechetical materials
2. funds / financial support / annual budget for 11. support from some religious congregations
the ministry through personnel
3. generally committed and supportive clergy 12. the ministry as the fund raising beneficiary
(esp. the young ones) 13. allocated funds for the diocesan and paro-
4. a full-time diocesan catechetical director / chial catechetical program
priest-director in the parish and vicariate level 14. supportive parishioners
5. diocesan, vicarial, and parochial gatherings and 15. regular meetings and coordination
on-going formation of catechists B. However, there are also some WEAKNESSES
6. dedicated, well-trained, industrious and com- (SHADOWS) which hinder in the implementa-
petent staff and coordinators tion of the catechetical program in their dioceses
7. presence of active, faithful and dedicated vol- / parishes:
unteer catechists and full-time catechists with a Among those noted were:
strong sense of mission and willing to be formed
Institute / C2
 CBCP Monitor
C2 DOCETE Vol. 12 No. 19
September 15 - 28, 2008

Evangelization and
Catholic Education
By Archbishop Leonardo Z. Legaspi, OP, DD
Nature of Catechesis
Catechesis then is not evangelization
nor is it theology although easily related
to both. What is it really? It is, in the
words of Pope John Paul II an “educa-
tion in the faith…especially the teach-
ing of Christian doctrine…imparted in
an organic and systematic way with a
view to initiating the hearers into the
fullness of Christian life” (CT 18).
There are several important indica-
tions in this description deserving of
some reflection. There is, for example,
the indication as to the basic aim of
catechesis when it says: “…with view to
initiating the hearers into the fullness of
Christian life,” Catechesis aims to “put
people not only in touch but in commun-
ion, in intimacy with Jesus Christ “(CT
5). The heart of catechesis is not a doc-
trine, or a moral principle, or an act of
worship, but “a person, the person of
Jesus of Nazareth” (CT 5). To catechize,
then, is to lead persons to study the mys-
tery of Christ in all its dimensions, in-
cluding the teaching of Jesus Christ
Himself, the Truth.”
The Central place of instruction in
catechesis is also underlined: “especially
the teaching of Christian doctrine.” This
follows the consistent Catholic tradition
that has always upheld the intelligibil-
ity of faith. Faith is a reasonable act,
something that can be understood; not a
blind leap in the dark. In other words,
the “yes” of faith includes both the per-
sonal “surrender to the word of God and
relying on it, “as well as the later stage
of “endeavoring to know better and bet-
ter the profound meaning of this word.”
(CT 20).
A very relevant and timely indication
is when the definition says: “…imparted
in an organic and systematic way…”
When the Bishops Conference of the
Philippines met to lay out their pastoral
plan for the next three years, it pin-
pointed as the most urgent need in the
field of catechesis the lack of an organic
and systematic catechetical teaching.
What are now the elements which con-
stitute a systematic catechesis?
Photo courtesy of ECCCE
Systematic Catechesis
When is catechesis systematic?
First, when it is programmed for a
definite goal, not haphazard or impro-
vised. Such programming takes into
consideration not only the subject mat-
ter, the truths of the faith, but also the
age, background and capacities of those
to be catechized, as well as follow-up
programs in religious education. Second,
when it focuses on the essentials of the
faith. That is not what this theology or
that teaches, but what the church teaches.
It means not a bare skeleton outline, but
sufficiently complete so that the doc-
trines come alive in the lives of the cat-
echized. Finally, it is systematic when it
serves as an introduction to and devel-
opment of the whole of Christian life. It
means not only establishing coherence
and mutual inter-relation of Christian
doctrines, but more so the inter relating
these Christian truths with the daily life
of the catechized, on both the individual
as well as the social levels. The may be
the greatest challenge to the catechists:
to so instruct the catechized that they can
see for themselves, their own daily acts,
problems, hopes and dreams, in the light
of basic Christian truths.
Specific Goals of Catechesis in the Phil-
ippines
This systematic catechesis is the type
of catechesis the Bishops want to see tak-
ing shape in the years to come. But what
does this type of catechesis expect to ac-
complish? What are the desired specific
goals of catechesis in the Philippines?
Note that what is asked are the specific
goals of catechesis, measurable goals.
The general goal is, as mentioned, to
“put people not only in touch but in
communion, in intimacy with Jesus
Christ” (CT 5).
The following are the proposed spe-
cific goals of catechesis according to the
NCDP draft. The enumeration is fol-
lowed by a brief explanation.
1. To help our people understand more fully
and more personally the inestimable riches of
their Christian faith
There are at least two strong reasons
for this goal: one is that ignorance of
God’s word and sound doctrine has
never produced authentic disciples of
Christ. The other is that the people have
“the sacred and inalienable right or re-
ceiving the word of God, the whole of
God, into which the Church does not
cease to penetrate ever more pro-
foundly” [ASS 68 (1971)10]). In order to
attain this, there should be the under-
standing of the sources of faith, namely,
Holy Scripture, Tradition and the teach-
ings of the Church.;
2. To educate the catechized in the basic
principles and practice of Christian morality
Among these principles is that which
presents authentic Christian faith as in-
cluding an essential moral dimension,
i.e., that “doing” is part of truly believ-
ing. Another is that Christian moral life
is primarily a response to grace, a reach-
ing out in love rather than simply avoid-
ing sin, shrinking from evil. Another
principle is the understanding of the use
of conscience in making moral deci-
sions. Like others, the Catholics use their
consciences. But unlike others the Catho-
lics do so as members of a community
with a long tradition of moral wisdom,
namely, the Church which is the com-
munity which serves as authoritative
guide not only through its past moral
tradition, but also through its present
moral directives.
3. To develop the ability to pray and to par-
ticipate actively in the Church’s liturgy
This flows from nature of faith itself
in which both prayer and worship con-
stitute an essential part. Catechesis
should show the indispensable role of
personal prayer for an authentic Chris-
tian life. One practical way to check the
validity of personal prayer is the ability
of the catechized to enter ever more
maturely into liturgical life of the local
Christian community.
4. To create a sense of personal belonging
to the Church, the community of disciples of
(Second of two parts)
Christ
All the baptized make up the Church
and therefore share in the responsibil-
ity for its life here and in the years to
come. This corrects the former common
misunderstanding of identifying the
Church with the bishops, priests and re-
ligious only.
5. To educate the catechized in translating
their Christian faith into attitudes and val-
ues of daily life
This is integration of faith and life and
it involves two related attitudes, one is
to discern the daily events and choices
of life in the spirit of faith; to discover
how God’s spirit is at work in daily life
(GCD 62). The next one is to translate
the basic Gospel truths, moral principles,
and spiritual attitudes into acts of daily
“secular” life.
The Case of Catechesis
The present need for a systematic
catechesis is not only due to the inher-
ent pre-eminent position of this minis-
try in terms of the over all pastoral and
missionary activity of the Church. That
is quite evident.
Nor even perhaps because of the con-
stantly growing baptized population
whose faith may not surface beyond the
implicit level of consciousness. The fu-
ture is expected to be even more chal-
lenging. As people move toward greater
modernization, urbanization, and eco-
nomic progress, the great and rapid so-
cial changes taking place will have con-
siderable effect on the education in the
faith.
For one there is the Filipino’s own
personal search for self-identity and his
place in community. Discontinuity in
lifestyle, changes in residence, and new
challenges will all put a severe strain on
his tradition value and belief system and
create new psychological conflicts and
disturbances. The traditional tensions
are indicative of the human condition-
tensions between autonomy and depen-
dence, between individuality and group
work; between self-discipline and in-
stant gratification; between justice and
equality and superior-inferior orienta-
tion; between authentic moral responsi-
bility and formal legalism and double
standards. In real life, these dichotomies
are never so clear and distinct; rarely do
people choose consciously one side or
the other. Rather their habitual ways of
acting, planning, and reacting tend to-
wards one pattern of living more than
the other.
This offers to the ministry of catechesis
a distinct challenge. This consists in
bringing the riches of the Christian faith
to bear on the Filipino’s search for self-
identity today. Using the appreciable
help of contemporary social science stud-
ies, one must bring the Gospel message
and the words, example and presence of
Jesus Christ, into immediate grips with
the often unconscious personal search for
something deeper, more lasting, more
truly Filipino, than the typical publicity
gimmicks or selling the latest fad.

Institute / C1

1. insufficient number of catechists, particularly
volunteer catechists
2. lack of personnel / staff and facilities
3. incompetent catechists / predominantly old,
retired / low educational attainment
4. lack of financial support / funds are not enough
5. no formation house
6. lack of cooperation from the parish-level
7. weak, sporadic or no clear catechetical pro-
gram / no improvement
8. lack of instructional materials / some are us-
ing recycled materials
9. lack of technical equipment
10. the diocesan office is too small or there is no
office at all that allow compensation for the staff
11. unavailability of competent and trained
catechetical director
12. lack of coordination with some parishes
13. tension in the interpersonal relationship be-
tween the pastor, coordinators and the catechists
themselves
14. lack of support and follow-up from some par-
ish priests
15. some have no parish catechetical office
16. lack of support in the catechetical programs
and activities
17. old style of catechesis
18. only few parishes send volunteer catechists
for training
19. lack of competent personnel / coordinators
to be trained
20. lack of system organization
21. some public schools are not receptive
22. indifference to the ministry
23. lack of training, formation and on-going stud-
ies about the development in Catechesis
24. catechists are not prioritized
25. focused mainly on “May Catechesis”
26. inadequate remuneration
Environmental Scanning
A. It was rather inspiring to know that regular
meetings are being held in their respective Ecclesi-
astical provinces for coordination and collabora-
tion among its covered dioceses in order to share
and “compare notes” regarding their catechetical
programs and experiences and as well as discuss
ways on how to improve the ministry.
However, in spite these opportunities mentioned
in this area / field, 3 major factors pose as threats to
this undertaking: 1) Financial (Lack of Funds); 2)
Attendance (Conflict of Schedules); and 3) Lack or
No Vision at all.
B. .Tie-ups with government agencies, the Depart-
ment of Education in particular (for allowing the
teaching of catechesis in the public schools) and
their respective local government units, have been
quite beneficial for the ministry. They are sup-
portive, cooperative and participative in the vari-
ous catechetical programs.
Some agencies, on the other hand, pose a threat to
our advocacy, particularly the programs of the De-
partment of Health and its nationwide campaign on
Reproductive Health and Population Management
which are opposed to the Church’s teachings.
C. In the field of Resource Mobilization – some ar-
eas are fortunate to tap funding agencies to help the
ministry while a great majority is just hopeful or is
still searching for organizations or foundations that
will help them financially in the implementation of
their programs. Others are hopeless and awkward
to work on this particular undertaking.
D. Collaboration with Catholic Schools has been
beneficial to the ministry as well, especially on the
financial aspect, and must be maximized particu-
larly through its Student-Catechist Program /
Adopt a Public School Program in support of the
deficiency in the number of volunteer catechists.
However, there are still problems experienced such
as intimidation and lack of coordination with the
ministry. Some student – catechists have no proper
training and formation and are only obliged to do
so as part of their curriculum. There are also cases
where there is a lack of coordination between the
parish priest (and the diocesan catechetical minis-
try) and the religious congregation managing the
schools.
E. Through the permission of the Department of
Education, our catechists are able to give religious
instruction in the Public Schools. It is one of the
best venues for evangelization especially to our
youth who are very thirsty in terms of religious
guidance.
Through proper coordination between the
school, the parish priest and the catechists, our
young people are able to receive the sacraments of
the Catholic Church.
In spite of this, it is still heartbreaking to hear of
AMCM / C1
lenged the participants to continue in their minis-
try of catechesis in the service of the Eucharist,
guided by these two basic documents
After his second presentation, participants were
invited to an open forum facilitated by Fr.
Chupungco himself and another resource speaker,
Fr. Genaro Diwa. Participants were also led to a
workshop after each session.
Bishop Villegas started the third day with a re-
freshing presentation on First Communion. He
stressed the importance of preparing little children
not only for their First Communion but their First
Confession as well. Consultation with the ECCCE
Chairman followed.
Shortly after Bishop Villegas was another expert
on Liturgy”Fr. Genaro Diwa who presented “The
Directory for Masses with Children”. He empha-
sized the value of an effective, meaningful and
beautiful celebration of Masses with children and
alongside with this was the challenge for the cat-
echists to be effective agents of the liturgy. Fr. Diwa
also presented a sample of the Second Eucharistic
Prayer especially tailored for children. Another
open forum and workshop was held after his talk.
Two equally important presentations were held
in the afternoon of the third day: The first was a
report done by Dr. Teresita Talamera followed by
Dr. Linda Tacorda who presented a report on Cat-
cases where the principal is not that receptive of
the program, and worse, would allow our brother
fundamentalists instead. Financial constraint is also
a major problem, as usual.
In CONCLUSION, the Summer Catechetical In-
stitute for Priests turned out to be successful and
the participants themselves are looking forward to
this as a yearly activity of the Commission. We
shall try to improve the program by the year
through their recommendations and suggestions
regarding possible activities, venue, topics to be
discussed and speakers as well.
echists’ Basic Formation Program (CBFP) and the
Realignment of CBFP (ECCCE– 1992) with NNCDP
(ECCCE-2007).
The morning of the fourth day was filled with
sharing of Catechetical Experiences from represen-
tatives of the three major regions of the country –
Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.
After the lively reports, Msgr. Santos wrapped up
the Assembly through his Presentation of Summary
of Workshop. Four major points were highlighted:
1) GDC and NCDP said that there is only one
aim in catechesis – and that is for us to have that
close relationship with Jesus.
2) All catechesis must be at the service of Lit-
urgy. The experience of God, that contemplative
moment, is the summit of all Christian life.
3) Sacraments are a joint enterprise between Jesus
and his people, and the Eucharist is a covenant, a
dialogue between Jesus and his people.
4) Sacraments are celebrations and good celebra-
tions foster and nourish faith. Poor and badly pre-
pared celebrations weaken, if not destroy the faith.
After the summary report, the Assembly offi-
cially ended through the distribution of certificates
headed by ECCCE Bishop Member and Bishop of
Digos, Most Rev. Jimmy Afable, D.D. assisted by
ECCCE Executive Secretary Msgr. Santos and his
assistant Sr. Jesusa Enginco, OP.
 CBCP Monitor
Vol. 12 No. 19
September 15 - 28, 2008 DOCETE C3

The Directory for

Masses with Children
By Fr. Genaro O. Diwa © Roy Lagarde/CBCP Media

The Liturgy and Catechesis
In a catechism class, a catechist
asked the students: “Why do we
need to keep silent during the
Mass?” One student replied with
conviction: “We are asked to keep
quiet during the Mass so as not
to wake up those who are sleep-
ing during the Mass.”
Catechesis is necessary in the
formation of the faith. But faith
in order to be completed needs
to be nourished by the Word of
God and the Sacraments and the
prayer life of each baptized.
Catechesis culminates in the cel-
ebration of the liturgy and espe-
cially in the celebration of the
Holy Eucharist. This is what the
Constitution on the Liturgy
wants to say when it declares that
the liturgy is the “source and the
summit of the Christian life.” It
also substantiates this declaration
by saying that “every liturgical
celebration, because it is an ac-
tion of Christ the Priest and of
his Body, which is the Church, is
a sacred action surpassing all oth-
ers. No other action of the Church
can equal its efficacy by the same
title and to the same degree.” (SC
7)
We cannot deny the fact that
there are many components to
the process of the growth of faith.
Our work for the building up of
a just society, the education of our
people, and the social action of
the Church, all of these are im-
portant aspects of the healthy
growth in faith. But, in all of these
the Church would like to remind
us that these should lead our
people in the praise of God and
their sanctification, i.e. the lit-
urgy. It is here that the mystery
of Christ and our salvation be-
come clearly manifested.
Such an end is always the point
of the official teachings of the
Church. The liturgy and espe-
cially the Holy Eucharist are not
addenda to the formation of faith
but the very end towards which
Catechesis exists. “Catechesis
should therefore be at the service
of active, conscious and genuine
participation in the Church’s lit-
urgy, not only by explaining the
meaning of the rites, but also by
training the faithful for prayer,
for thanksgiving, for penance, for
confident prayer of petition, for
a sense of community, giving
them a proper understanding of
the symbols% all of which are
necessary for a proper liturgical
life.
The Directory for Masses with
Children is a document that has
attempted to address the issue of
the relationship of Catechesis
and the celebration of the Eucha-
rist and to give guidelines to
those who are in charge of the
preparation of the liturgy for chil-
dren and for catechists. The Di-
rectory tries to respond to the
problem arising from the fact that
the liturgical celebrations “can-
not fully exercise their inherent
pedagogical force upon children”
(no.2).
The liturgy is aware of the
presence of children but it
scarcely addresses itself to them.
The signs, symbols and its lan-
guage are directed normally to
the adult members of the assem-
bly. Sometimes, the presence of
children if not causing irritation
for some, even can be a cause of
nuisance for others.
The Directory has an introduc-
tion and three chapters. The first
chapter, which is basic, discusses
the different ways in which chil-
dren are introduced to the Eucha-
ristic liturgy, especially through
catechesis. The second chapter
deals with Masses at which a good
number of children take part to-
gether with a good number of
adults. The normal situations of
these would be Sundays and holi-
days. The third chapter deals
with Masses with children in
which only few adults are
present. This chapter addresses
the issues on ministries, place and
time of celebration, preparation,
singing and music, gestures and
visual elements, silence and the
different parts of the Mass that
require special care.
Principles of the Directory
This is the first liturgy which
has been shaped for the use of
children. This is supported by the
desire of the Church to adapt the
liturgy to the needs of various
groups (SC 38). This is also the
fruit of the Synod of Bishops in
1967.
Children in this document re-
fer to those who have not yet en-
tered the period of preadoles-
cence, between the ages of nine
and twelve.
But in reality the principles
taken in this document can also
be applied to other age brackets
as well.
1. Intelligibility of the Liturgy
The Directory recognizes the
fact that even if the liturgy has
been celebrated in the vernacu-
lar still there are words and signs
which are not easily understood
by children.
Sometimes even the adults do
not understand the signs and the
symbols used in the Eucharist.
The historical and cultural set-
tings in which these evolved may
not be easily unravelled by the
faithful. The problem boils down
to the tension between the classi-
cal and the popular, the liturgist’s
creation in time and the people’s
capacity to assimilate them. The
truth is, the problem is not only
with children but it is also with
adults.
Understanding of the liturgy is
a basic tenet in Vatican II’s pro-
gram of liturgical reform. The
Constitution on Liturgy de-
mands that the rites “should be
within the people’s power of The Eucharistic Prayer needs to ebrant himself” (no. 6). The Directory states that “the
comprehension and as a rule not be explained (no. 52). This is some- The principle of intelligibility principles of active and conscious
require explanation” (art. 34). what a tall order. This is also the includes the readings and the ex- participation are in a sense even
This is the foundation of the de- reason for the creation of the new planation of the word of God. more significant for Masses cel-
vout and active participation; the Eucharistic Prayers for children. This includes the choice of the ebrated with children. Every ef-
understanding of what happens The style is simple suited to the readings and the homily. fort should therefore be made to
and the meaning of the liturgical understanding of the children increase this participation and to
celebration. (no. 5). The work of translations 2. Towards Masses with Adults make it more intense” (no.22).
The Directory insists on the must make this true. “It is always necessary to keep This is the reason for all the ef-
need to impart Eucharistic Even if the whole effort is to in mind that these Eucharistic cel- forts to adapt the celebration of
catechesis to children: “even in make this simple, the Directory ebrations must lead children to- the Mass for children. We see this
the case of children, the liturgy is not unaware of some dangers ward the celebration of Mass with in the various ministries and of-
itself always exerts its own inher- in this regard: “Although a sim- adults, especially the Masses at fices during Mass: Mass servers,
ent power to instruct” (no. 12). pler style of language was which the Christian community readers, and song leaders; the
Example: the presidential prayers adopted, the authors always had must come together on Sundays” place of singing and musical in-
of the Mass. in mind the importance of avoid- (no.21). Those who prepare and struments in the celebration; the
But the fact remains that there ing the danger of childish lan- organize Masses with children use of gestures and the visual el-
are still elements in the celebra- guage, which would jeopardize should not lose sight of the fact ements; the observance of silence;
tion of the Eucharist which are the dignity of the Eucharistic cel- that the children grow to matu- and the numerous acclamations.
difficult to understand: the the- ebration, especially if it affected rity as they are gradually intro- Example: Invite children to
ology of the sacrifice and meal. the words to be said by the cel- duced into the cultural world of take part in preparing and orna-
the adult members of the society. menting the place where Mass
This is also applicable to all will be celebrated, and prepare

First Communion
other ecclesial and age groups. the chalice with the paten and the
The Constitution on Liturgy (art. cruets (no. 29).
38) encourages this but it is to During the celebration itself:
avoid the creation of ecclesiole or the various ways of proclama-
privilege, but to serve the tion of the word of God (no. 47).
faithful’s particular needs to The question of dramatization
A talk presented by Most Rev. Socrates B. Villegas deepen the Christian life in ac- and rhythmic swaying is not ex-
cord with the requirements and plicitly addressed but we can say
FROM Early Church History cumstances (cf. Sebastiano Giribaldi, Op. Mor., I, c. 72). That infants capacities of the members of the that these do not go contrary to
It is now well established that in the early days of Christianity it and children not yet come to the use of reason may not only val- groups.” this exhortation of the document
was not uncommon for infants to receive Communion immedi- idly but even fruitfully receive the Blessed Eucharist is now the If this is so, then the Masses “in view of the nature of the lit-
ately after they were baptized. Among others St. Cyprian (Lib. de universally received opinion, but it is opposed to Catholic teach- with children “should not be en- urgy as an activity of the entire
Lapsis, c. xxv) makes reference to the practice. In the East the cus- ing to hold that this sacrament is necessary for their salvation tirely special rites markedly dif- person and in view of the psy-
tom was (Council of ferent from the Order of Mass chology of children, participation
pretty univer- Trent, Sess. celebrated with a congregation” by means of gesture and posture
sal, and even Photo courtesy of ECCCE XXI, can. iv). (no.21). The effort here “could not should be strongly encouraged
to this day ex- be a matter of creating some en- in Masses with children, with due
ists in some Church Laws tirely special rite but rather of regard for age and customs” (no.
places, but in today on First retaining, shortening, or omit- 33).
the West in- Communion ting some elements or of mak- There are many possibilities
fant Com- The exist- ing a better selection of text.” (no. for active participation. We
munion was ing legisla- 3) should avoid the tendency to
not so gen- tion with re- Pursuing the principle that make “active” to “super-active”,
eral. Here, gard to the children’s Masses should lead to and “participation” to an excuse
moreover, it Communion adult’s Masses, the Directory of liturgy worship. The caution
was restricted of children states that “some rites and texts is given to us: “In all this, it
to the occa- has been defi- should never be adapted for chil- should be kept in mind that ex-
sions of bap- nitely settled dren lest the difference between ternal activities will be fruitless
tism and dan- by the Fourth Masses with children and the and even harmful if they do not
gerous ill- Lateran Coun- Masses with adults become too serve the internal participation
ness. Prob- cil, which was pronounced” (no. 38) This means of the children” (no. 22).
ably it origi- afterwards that the Roman Missal is the norm
nated in a mis- confirmed by on which the Masses with chil- 4. Instilling Eucharistic Values
taken notion the authority dren are to be based. There is a close link between
of the abso- of the Council The Conference of Bishops is intelligibility and catechesis.
lute necessity of Trent. required to make adaptations of When people find the Mass mean-
of the Blessed According the Supplement to the Directory. ingless it usually is perceived as
Eucharist for to its provi- If there is none yet then the fol- a religious activity disconnected
salvation, sions children lowing principles are to be our from their life’s concerns and re-
founded on may not be guides: first, every Mass with chil- alities. That is why the Directory
the words of admitted to dren will have to be prepared warns us that the liturgical for-
St. John (vi, the Blessed individually, taking into account mation of children must also be
54). Bishop Socrates
Bishop Socrates Villegas,
Villegas, ECCCE
ECCCE Chairman
Chairman Eucharist un- the particular needs and situation connected to their general edu-
In the reign til they have of the group of children. Second, cation as Christians and humans:
of Charlemagne an edict was published by a Council of Tours (813) attained to years of discretion, but when this period is reached it is necessary to be guided by “indeed it would be harmful if
prohibiting the reception by young children of Communion un- then they are bound to receive this sacrament. the operative principle that for their liturgical formation lacked
less they were in danger of death (Zaccaria, Bibl. Rit., II, p. 161) and When may they be said to have attained the age of discretion? In the preparation of Masses with such a basis” (no. 8).
Odo, Bishop of Paris, renewed this prohibition in 1175. Still the the best-supported view of theologians this phrase means, not the children the current Order of The values that the celebration
custom died hard, for we find traces of it in Hugh of St. Victor (De attainment of a definite number of years, but rather the arrival at a Mass is normative. of the Eucharist promote: com-
Sacr., I, c. 20) and Martène (De Ant. Ecc. Rit., I bk., I, c. 15) alleges that certain stage in mental development, when children become able It is clear that the Directory munity spirit, hospitality, capac-
it had not altogether disappeared in his own day. to discern the Eucharistic from ordinary bread, to realize in some proposes an adaptation of the ity to listen and to seek forgive-
The manner of Communicating infants was by dipping the fin- measure the dignity and excellence of the Sacrament of the Altar, existing Order of the Mass and ness, sense of gratitude, generos-
ger in the consecrated chalice and then applying it to the tongue of to believe in the Real Presence, and adore Christ under the sacra- not creative liturgies for chil- ity to the point of sacrifice, lead-
the child. This would seem to imply that it was only the Precious mental veils. De Lugo (De Euch., disp. xiii, n. 36, Ben. XIV, De Syn., dren. But the work of adaptation ership, family and friendly meals
Blood that was administered, but evidence is not wanting to show vii) says that if children are observed to assist at Mass with devo- is clearly requiring a great deal and festive celebration. These
that the other Consecrated Species was also given in similar cir- tion and attention it is a sign that they are come to this discretion. of creativity. human values are enriched in our
celebrations, giving them Chris-
3. Active Participation tian meaning.
 CBCP Monitor
C4 DOCETE Vol. 12 No. 19
September 15 - 28, 2008

Presentation of Summary of
Workshop Findings
By Msgr. Gerardo Santos Photo courtesy of ECCCE

Knowing the Good Shepherd
Some years ago at a social func-
tion in England, a great actor was
asked to recite something for the
pleasure of his fellow guests. He
consented. He asked if there was
anything special which his audi-
ence would like to hear. An aged
minister who was present arose
and said, “Could you, sir, recite the
23rd Psalm?”
The great actor paused for a
moment and then said, “I will, but
on one condition—that you will re-
cite it also after I have finished.” The
pastor was taken by surprise, “I’m
hardly a public speaker, but if you
wish, I can recite, too.” The actor
began quite impressively. His
voice was straight and his into-
nation was perfect. The audience
was spellbound. And when he
finished there was great applause
from the guests.
Now, it was the old pastor’s
turn to recite the Psalm. His voice
was not remarkable. His intona-
tion was not faultless. But when
he finished, there was not a dry
eye in the room. Many heads
were bowed in reverence.
The great actor rose to his feet
and his voice quivered as he said,
“Ladies and gentlemen, I have
reached your eyes and your ears. But
the minister has reached your hearts.
The difference is this: I know the
Psalm, but he knows the Shepherd!”
That story wraps up our con-
vention. We go back again to the
reason why we came here “ we
are all catechists.
1) GDC and NCDP said that there
is only one aim in catechesis – and
that is for us to have that close re-
lationship with Jesus. The experi-
ence of Jesus needs to be cultivated.
2) We discovered that for the
past few days we have been do-
ing a great deal of living out the
principles outlined by the NCDP
– Integration, Inculturation and
Community Formation. We
have integrated our life and faith.
We have also understood in a
better manner, inculturation,
with the sharing, the laughter,
and the stories that we’ve had.
But above all we have experi-
enced what Church is “ to build
the church, to be in vision is the
output of the experience of Jesus,
to help create the experience of
God, which is the contemplative
moment, in the chief goal the
most important desire outcome
of all Eucharistic celebrations.
That is a very important sum-
mary for the past few days. Once
again, all catechesis must be at
the service of Liturgy. The expe-
rience of God, that contemplative
moment, is the summit of all
Christian life.
Sacraments are not things; they
are actions “ actions of Jesus and
of his people. We must depart
from notions of those who give
the sacraments versus those who
receive. All give… all receive…
all celebrate. The highlight of the
talk of Fr. Anscar (Chupungco) is
that full, active, and conscious
participation is a major achieve-
ment of the Second Vatican Coun-
cil. We do not hear Mass, we cel-
ebrate Eucharist.
3) Sacraments are a joint enter-
prise between Jesus and his people.
Jesus has his part, the people have
their part. It is important that
people are disposed… but the dis- Msgr. Gerardo Santos, ECCCE executive secretary
position of the heart is important.
Why? Because the Eucharist is a does the signs say? Our people Sunday celebration. All who cel- cus. That’s another word” Pres-
covenant, a dialogue between need to cultivate the power of ebrate must be personally ence is Focus. Personal presence
Jesus and his people. signs. All who celebrate therefore, present – personally and ener- is the one important ingredient
4) Sacraments are celebrations. must make clear, strong, compel- getically paying attention to all that we can bring to the making
They are subject to the universal ling signs because good signs that is going on both outside and of the contemplative experience”
laws of human communication. make good celebrations. The dif- inside the persons. the experience of God. With pres-
What we have heard from Fr. ference is impact. At the end of IMPORTANT: Celebration ence comes hospitality. Hospital-
Anscar to Fr. Genie and even the liturgy we must ask, have we challenges us to presence. Pres- ity means opening our hearts to
from Bishop Soc is that good cel- touched the hearts of our people? ence means I am attentive to what the guests, opening our hearts to
ebrations foster and nourish The secret of a good homily is is happening. I am there for you. each other. Love translated in li-
faith. Poor and badly prepared when people talk about their Personal presence, paying atten- turgical light is hospital,
celebrations weaken, if not de- homily after the Mass…up to tion to, is the central dynamic that “pagbubukas ng loob”.
stroy the faith. Monday till Friday – where the makes sacramental actions come That is the summary of the past
The power of signs and sym- homily has nourished the soul. alive and be effective. Another few days”the Theology of celebra-
bols “ let the signs speak, what That is the difference in every word for presence”catechesis fo- tions that brings forth Eucharist.

Office of Education and Faith Formation, Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences, Consultation meeting on Eucharist
and Education in Asia, held on May 25-30, 2008, at the Assumption University, Suvarnabhumi Campus, Thailand.

FINAL STATEMENT
EUCHARIST and Education brought us to-
gether.
Together, we became and pledge to continue
to be Eucharist in Education.
Called to consultation by the Office of Educa-
tion and Faith Formation of the Federation of
Asian Bishops Conferences, we have come in
communion from ten Asian, one European, and
two Latin American countries. There are more
than thirty of us – bishops, priests, brothers,
nuns, lay faithful, catechists, teachers and stu-
dents involved in Catholic education and in
non-formal and informal education, a represen-
tative from the Christian Conference of Asia,
executive secretary of the Office of Consecrated
Life, and the officials of OIEC (Office Interna-
tional de l’ Enseignmente Catholique). We are
gathered in Assumption University in Bangkok,
Thailand these final days of May 2008 to reflect
on Eucharist and Education in Asia.
Sacramentum Caritatis brought us together.
It is the Post Synodal Exhortation issued on Feb-
ruary 22, 2007, the Feast of the Chair of St. Peter,
by our Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, and ad-
dressed to the bishops, clergy, consecrated per-
sons and the lay faithful on the topic the Eucha-
rist as the Source and Summit of the life and
mission of the Church. We are here to consult
one another and exchange insights and experi-
ences on the understanding of the Eucharist in
education in our respective countries, how we
celebrate the Eucharist in our schools, and how
we may make the Eucharist a living reality in
ourselves and in our educational institutions.
Our reflections and our sharing are our con-
tribution to the preparation for the 9th Plenary
Assembly of the Federation of Asian Bishops
Conferences which will be held under the theme
“Living the Eucharist in Asia”.
From our discussions we recommend practi-
cal and pastoral ways and means to make Catho-
lic Schools and other institutions of learning
Eucharistic in the context of Asia, that is, how
we may not only celebrate but even more share
the Eucharist by becoming Eucharist ourselves.
From the start we took to heart the words of
Pope Benedict XVI that Sacramentum Caritatis,
“the sacrament of charity, the Holy Eucharist is
the gift that Jesus Christ makes of himself, thus re-
vealing to us God’s infinite love for every man and
woman.” (SC,1.)
We took as framework for our discussions
the very format of the Pope’s Apostolic Exhor-
tation, namely, that the Eucharist is a Mystery
to be Believed, a Mystery to be Celebrated, and
a Mystery to be Lived. Following the vener-
able pedagogical method of seeing, reflecting,
and acting, we divided our days into periods
when we could SEE the Eucharist in the context
of education in our respective countries, RE-
FLECT on Eucharist in our campuses in the light
of the rich tradition of the Church and ACT to-
wards a renewed dynamics of Eucharist in our
schools.
We shared our thoughts and experiences from
our respective viewpoints in different countries
as bishops, priests, nuns, brothers, consecrated
persons, and lay faithful; as school administra-
tors, teachers, students, parents, chaplains, cat-
echists, ministers, and media practitioners.
We realized the challenges confronting us. In
countries such as Malaysia, Vietnam, Myanmar, and
Mongolia, the main challenges come from restric-
tions placed by the local governments on the ad-
ministration of Catholic schools and institutions
of higher learning. In Malaysia, the administration
of schools is largely in the hands of the govern-
ment. In Vietnam, the government almost com-
pletely took over the schools. In Myanmar, the
Church does not have Catholic schools. In
Mongolia, there is practically no knowledge or
experience of the Eucharist, and government law
on education prohibits the teaching of religion.
In Sri Lanka, there used to be a dual system of
schools”government schools and denominational
or religious schools, the latter group being sup-
ported by the government. But in 1960, most of the
schools were compulsorily taken over by the gov-
ernment leaving only 65 private schools, 25 of
which were Catholic. Over the years, regrettably,
those government-run schools deteriorated in stan-
dard and discipline. Another problem is that though
the government has the policy of making compul-
sory the teaching of whatever may be the religion
of individual pupils, whether the school concerned
is private or public, there is a shortage of religion
teachers for Christians in public schools. This situ-
ation forces some students to take another religion
subject if only to prepare themselves for the public
examination.
In India, Korea, Thailand and Taiwan, where the
running of Catholic schools and universities con-
tinue to remain in the hands of the Church, the
challenges include creating a greater awareness and
appreciation of the Eucharist among the young,
especially in the face of globalization.
In the Philippines, a country with a predomi-
nantly Catholic population, one of the main chal-
lenges remains the shortage of priests. At present,
there is practically just one priest for thousands of
(10,000) Catholics.
These challenges do not blind us to the elements
of hope we continue to see in the Church in Asia.
In Malaysia, the difficulty of having faith for-
mation and the celebration of the Eucharist has
meant that parishes are now the main context of
catechesis and Eucharistic celebrations.
The Church in the Philippines has made reli-
gion the core of the curriculum in Catholic schools.
This enables the school community to make the
link between the Eucharist and life.
The Korean Church has come to discover the
importance of co-existence, that is, living in har-
mony with people of other faiths and beliefs. The
promotion and preservation of human rights is also
an essential part of the mission of the local Church.
In Mongolia where the Church is relatively
young, though the challenges remain numerous,
the Church continues to be hopeful in the task of
evangelization.
In India, much is being done to inculturate the
Mass so that the celebration of the Eucharist be-
comes more meaningful for young people.
In Vietnam, the government has allowed the
Church to open kindergartens. Together with the
pastoral centers recently established for catechism
classes, theology, and pastoral activity, this is a sign
of hope that eventually the Church will be allowed
to start and run schools and institutes of higher
learning.
In Thailand, though the Catholic population is very
small, the contribution of the Church in the field of
education is recognized and highly appreciated.
In Taiwan, Catholic schools, and most especially,
universities, are seen as places where young people
are helped to grow in awareness and appreciation
for the Eucharist. In Myanmar, efforts are being
made by the Church to provide education. Dio-
ceses are sending students abroad so that they may
contribute to the mission of the local Church upon
their return.
In Sri Lanka, the rate of literacy and the percent-
age of women in education is rather high. More-
over, because of the deterioration in the quality in
government-run schools, an interreligious group,
which includes the Catholic Church, is proposing
to the government that the different religions be
given more management rights in their former
schools. There are high hopes that this proposal
will be approved.
With all these shared experiences, we look to the
Eucharist as the sacrament that is the source of our
inspiration and strength. As it counters the materi-
alistic effects of globalization it gives strength and
impetus to evangelization. If we have been taught
that Lex orandi, Lex credendi , that we pray as we
believe, we have learned to add Lex docendi, Lex
educandi, Lex vivendi: just as we pray according to
how and what we believe, so we live according to
what we teach and how we educate.
The format of Sacramentum Caritatis thus be-
comes the framework of our renewed vision of
Catholic formation and education: what we believe,
we celebrate; what we celebrate and believe, we live.
What is it that we believe about the Eucharist?
What do we see as its implications for us in educa-
tion? What are its consequences for our life?
We accept the principles, direction and spirit of
the Apostolic Exhortation. In the Eucharist we re-
ceive Christ himself, risen and glorified in the Holy
Spirit, who includes us, the Church, in his work. We
celebrate the Eucharist in obedience to Christ’s com-
mand, based on our experience of the Risen Lord
and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit (SC 36,37).
We affirm that the Eucharist is the embodiment
of God’s love and we accept that we must lead our
communities to see its link to the Holy Scriptures
and to the person of Jesus himself. We need to ac-
cept the Bible as the Living Word of God: It is alive.
In it, we live. From it and because of it we find life
and our mission to share.
We believe that the Holy Scripture, the Eucha-
rist, and Jesus cannot be separated. What we learn
from one should lead us to the other. In our per-
sons, communities and institutions they must find
no partition or division, only unity.
Where the Catholic community is a minority,
which is the situation in most of our Asian coun-
tries, the Eucharist is for us the center for together-
ness, even for survival. In it we find comfort.
Through it we become one.
Where the Eucharist is celebrated in our schools
anywhere, we see the need for better preparation
for it, and for a more dedicated attempt to relate it
to the youth, so that they become more active par-
ticipants in this Sacrament of Life. Its richness we
must learn to appreciate, its wealth we must learn
to integrate in the whole educational process:
from the rite and ritual to the transformation of
the head, heart and soul”the whole of life
From the perspective of what we have learned
and discussed we offer the following recom-
mendations:
· School administrators, chaplains, campus
ministers, and teachers should strengthen their
commitment to effective catechesis and Eucha-
ristic celebration in campus.
· Our students, children and the youth should
be invited to take more active part in the celebra-
tion of the Holy Eucharist and other liturgies.
For this to be effective, chaplains and campus
ministers should be trained and dedicated to pre-
pare better for the reception of the Sacrament,
always ready to adapt the celebration to the minds
and situation of the students, young or old.
· School administrators should reach out to
parents”the first educators in the faith”to help
them cultivate the love for the Eucharist in the
home so that on Sundays, which are non-school
days, the whole family celebrates the Mass.
· In the face of the shortage of priests and reli-
gious, a more concerted effort must be made to
train and empower the laity to assist in the edu-
cation and celebration of the Eucharist.
· Beyond the liturgical activities, the teaching
of morality needs to be stressed”Christian vir-
tues as well as basic human values. Thus would
our students learn respect for others, especially
the poor and underprivileged, and respect for
other religions and cultures.
· Teachers and administrators of our schools
should regularly update and re-train themselves
as much in pedagogy and management as in the
purpose and spirit of Catholic education
To achieve our dreams and longings to make
the Eucharist the source and summit of our life
and mission, we need the cooperation of every-
one: administrators, parents, teachers and stu-
dents. This we shall endeavor to do.
When we shall have imbibed the fullness of
the Eucharist, we hope to be able to live it as
Pope Benedict XVI affirms it should be lived: as
a mystery to be offered to the world, as the food
of truth and human need, the school at which
we learn to assume not just our religious roles
in life but our specific political and social re-
sponsibilities.
We shall continue to feel for and be one with
our suffering brothers and sisters in the world”in
this particular time, the victims of the earth-
quakes in China, the cyclones in Myanmar and
in the United States, and many others who are
victims not just of natural calamities but of hu-
man injustice and heartlessness.
The Eucharist makes us one with all in sor-
row as well as in joy. It gives us hope that Jesus
is our companion on our way, our food that
satisfies our hunger for truth and freedom (SC,2).
It reminds us of what Jesus said when he multi-
plied the loaves and the fishes: “You yourselves,
you give them something to eat” (Mt 14,16). It
tells us that with Jesus we are called to be bread
broken for the life of the world.
Eucharist and Education brought us together.
Together we became and pledge to continue to
be—Eucharist in Education.