Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Christians in politics
•B1The Conclusion
of the
•C1 UGNAYAN
The News Supplement
of Couples for Christ
and society, says Pope Year for Priests
Show proof,
By Roy Lagarde
THE HEAD of the Catholic Bishops’
Conference of the Philippines (CBCP)
called on individuals to drop claims
whistleblowers told
of poll cheating if they don’t have
enough proof.
According to Bishop Nereo Odchimar, such al-
legations are creating a cloud of “confusion” and
“doubt” on the credibility of the recent automated
local and national elections.
Odchimar said it is unfair for the people who
casted their ballots and those who helped protect
the credibility of the votes to be countered with
ambiguous accusations made on national televi-
sion.
The CBCP head also challenged those who have
direct knowledge about massive election cheating
to come out in the open and show evidence, if they
have any.
“We should bring out solid proofs to back up
accusations and allegations,” Odchimar said over
Church-run Radyo Veritas on May 23.
And if allegations of poll fraud are based on
“solid grounds,” then the issue, he said, must be
seriously taken and investigated.
“If there is evidence, it should be in investigated
to put the minds of the people at rest,” he added.
‘Koala bear’
It was at “The Forum”, a media discussion orga-
nized by the CBCPNews and the Catholic Media
Network (CMN), where a video of the masked
whistleblower, now known as “koala bear” was
first shown.
But organizers denied holding the forum just for
the presentation of the video.
The supposed witness said votes for presidential
candidates Gilbert Teodoro, Joseph Estrada and
Bro. Eddie Villanueva were shaved in favor of a
“paying client”.
The masked, bespectacled man claimed that the
vote-padding and -shaving was supposedly made Cebu Archbishop Ricardo Cardinal Vidal signs a copy of his biography book
to favor “dilaw” (yellow), apparently in reference ‘Via Veritatis – The life and ministry of Ricardo Cardinal J. Vidal” during a
© Sammy Navaja
ceremony in Cebu City on May 25 where he marked the 25th anniversary of
to presidential frontrunner Benigno Aquino III. his elevation to the cardinalship. Vidal is the fourth Filipino cleric to become
The anonymous whistleblower added that cheat- member of the college of cardinals.
Proof / A6
Values are more important than language, prelate says The election was held less than
a week after the poll body recalled
more than 76,000 memory cards
THE chairman of the Episcopal Com- by vote-buying,” the prelate said. bandictionary.com describes jejemons from voting machines used in the
mission onv Youth and Legazpi Bishop The bishop said the statement when as those who have “low tolerance in cor- national and local polls after tests
Joel Baylon said he is more concerned of asked of his reaction on popular youth- rect punctuation, syntax and grammar” found they failed to read ballots
the youth’s values on chastity, decency, speak known as jejemon that proliferate and bent on undermining the English and print accurate results.
and honesty more than their in the internet’s social networking sites language “to the point of incompre- Some religious leaders and civil
language. and cellphone texting. hensibility.” society leaders have long raised
Baylon, in an interview The term is a Baylon, however, thinks it is simply a concern the untested system left
over Radio Veritas said he combination of way for young people to express them- door open for vote fraud that
is more anxious of the “jeje” that came selves comparative to fads that have could lead to instability and civil
youth’s values and its from “hehe” come and gone. unrest.
effect on their lives where “h” is The prelate said if one could compre- According to PPCRV chair-
© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media
rather than their changed with hend what is being said by the young person Henrietta De Villa the
language. “j” and “mon” people, nobody can force youngsters to discrepancies found were “too
“I am more from the cartoon talk in a conventional way. minor” to conclude that the elec-
worried of how show “Poke- “Language is merely an expression of tion was rigged.
the youth reacted mon” meaning experience and what is more important “There’s no pattern (of poll
to the recent politi- monster. are the values behind the language and cheating). We’ve found no sys-
cal exercise which A definition the principle that shapes the person’s tematic attempts of fraud. If there
was characterized Illustration by Bladimer Usi from website ur- Values / A6 ‘Clean’ / A6 PPCRV Chairperson Henrietta de Villa
© www.topnews.in
“The commitment to the common good of the family of peoples, as for every society, entails, therefore, space to God and to be open to the
taking care of and of making use of a complex of institutions,” he clarified. transcendent.”
In this regard, the priority that will ensure development for all peoples is “to do one’s utmost to The Pontiff lauded the founda-
recognize the true scale of goods-values,” Benedict XVI reflected. “Only thanks to a correct hierarchy tion for their work in promoting
of human goods is it possible to understand what type of development must be promoted.” social doctrine, saying it “responds to the most profound expectations of man, and your commitment
to further it and spread it is a valid contribution to build the ‘civilization of love.’”
All aboard The Centesimus Annus Pro Pontifice Foundation was founded by Pope John Paul II in 1993. As a lay
Certain principles guide the way for integral human development, the Pope continued, naming foundation, it aims to promote the social doctrine of the Church in professional and business sectors.
“subsidiarity and solidarity, as well as the interdependence between state, society and market.” (Zenit)
a great extent the artistic creativity of Russian musicians to create urged, "let us again give a soul not only to believers but to all peoples
masterpieces that merit being better known in the Western world," of the continent, let us promote confidence and hope again, rooting
he said. them in the age-old experience of the Christian faith!" (Zenit)
Catholics join Bangkok’s post-riot clean up leading and damaging to women, who may feel pressured into
making a quick decision, which can never be revoked.”
“Moreover, to allow the broadcasting advertising of abortion-
BANGKOK, Thailand, May Thais but we cannot despair,” said during a clean up operation of their occupation of a central referral services is, in effect, to allow the exploitative promotion
24, 2010—Lay Catholics were Sittichai Trisopha who is active in areas occupied by the protest- commercial district. of these services and is not in the interests of the health or psy-
among some 3,000 Bangkok resi- various Church organizations. ers. The Bangkok Metropolitan Sittichai, who came with his chological well-being of women.
dents who helped clean up the “It seems like a nightmare,” he Administration organized the family, said he invited at least 15 “The Bishops of England and Wales encourage and support
mess left behind after red shirt said. “We must learn from this clean up. other lay Catholics to take part in women to make informed choices about their emotional, psycho-
protesters were dispersed from a tragedy and pain. This must not Arsonists and rioters left many the clean up. logical and physical well-being,” the statement continued, adding
central commercial district. happen again. The government areas in downtown Bangkok in “The roads and the buildings that the bishops “support a number of charities which do this, in
“The recent tragedy gives rise to and red shirts must dialogue.” ruins on May 19, after red shirt can immediately fixed but we do particular the organization called ‘LIFE’ which offers confiden-
a sense of hopelessness among all He was speaking on May 23 leaders announced an end to not know how long it will take to tial information, counseling and practical help and support for
fix the wounded hearts and minds women contemplating abortion, suffering after pregnancy loss
Mainland Catholics pray for China Church of the people,” said Parinda Vapi-
kung, from the Catholic Commis-
sion for Justice and Peace, who
or struggling to cope after abortion.”
John Smeaton, director for the U.K.-based Society for the
Protection of Unborn Children (SPUC), likewise condemned
SHANGHAI, China, May 24, 2010—Catholics in “These so-called ’arrangements’ actually means also took part in the clean up.
mainland China prayed on May 24, the day dedi- forbidding pilgrimages,” the sources said. the ad campaign, charging that “Marie Stopes may claim to be
She said the reconciliation pro- a non-profit organization, but they have a financial interest in
cated to prayers for the the Church in the country, A priest in a southeastern province told UCA cess must continue and pointed
although many were unable to visit the popular News his parishioners have wanted to make a drumming up demand for abortion.”
out that it is most urgent to Smeaton added that the pro-abortion organization has a history
Sheshan Marian shrine in a Shanghai suburb. pilgrimage to Sheshan for more than three years “tackle poverty and inequality,”
The number of pilgrims has not returned to the now. of displaying a “cavalier attitude to obeying legal restrictions
the root causes of the conflict. regarding abortion, and has been implicated in illegal abortions
level before Pope Benedict XVI issued his letter He and other clergy in various parts of main- Catholics are a small part of
to Chinese Catholics in June 2007 dedicating land China have decided to hold Masses and overseas.”
Thai society “but still we can “Although Marie Stopes claims to be a charity helping wom-
the feast of Our Lady, Help of Christians as the other devotions in their parishes on the prayer do something for the country,
special prayer day and mentioning the Sheshan day. en,” he noted, “its huge multi-national revenue means it can
however small.” afford TV advertising, which is hugely expensive. This creates
shrine in particular, say local sources. About 3,000 local Catholics gathered at Bangkok Governor Sukhumb-
This was because the government-sanctioned Sheshan on May 24 to celebrate the shrine’s an unfair playing field, as pro-life groups simply cannot afford
hand Paripatra told the volun- any such advertising.”
Chinese Catholic Patriotic Association and Bish- feast day. teers, “This is a time to rebuild
ops’ Conference of the Catholic Church in China Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Xing Wenzhi of “Allowing abortion to be advertised on TV will lead to
Bangkok and the country. The more unborn babies being killed and to more women and
have issued notices since then discouraging Shanghai presided at the prayer session and psychological recovery from
cross-province pilgrimages during the Marian procession, and at Mass at the shrine’s Minor girls suffering the after-effects of abortion,” Smeaton under-
the recent violence may take scored. “Abortion ads will trivialize abortion. It is an insult
month of May, the sources say. Basilica of St. Mary. longer than the rehabilitation of
This year’s notice said that as the World Expo Pilgrims prayed for the Church in China, the to the hundreds of women hurt by abortion every day. Such
the city.” ads are offensive and will mislead viewers about the reality
is currently taking place in Shanghai, Catholics World Expo, and victims of disasters. More than 52 people have been
who wish to go to Shanghai should follow the In Rome, Pope Benedict mentioned the day of abortion.”
killed in political violence since The ads have already been banned in Northern Ireland, where
arrangements set by their provincial Catholic of prayer at his reflection following the midday May 14, and hundreds more
Patriotic Associations and local dioceses and then Regina Caeli at St. Peter’s Square on May 23, the United Kingdom’s Abortion Act of 1967 does not apply.
have been injured, according to (CNA)
get approval from Shanghai diocese. Pentecost Sunday. (UCAN) Thai media reports. (UCAN)
News Features
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 11
May 24 - June 6, 2010
A3
We must “show we are open to true dialogue and collaboration ... never forgetting that the contribu-
tion of Christians can be decisive only if knowledge of faith becomes knowledge of reality, the key to
judgment and transformation.
“What is needed is a true ‘revolution of love,’” he remarked.
Pope Benedict concluded by inviting the new generations to take part in political life with “a com-
mitment founded not on their ideologies or the interests of a few, but on their choice to service man
and the common good, in the light of the Gospel.” (CNA/EWTN News)
Prayer, conversion
triumph over life’s
Vatican official reflects on
threats, calamities, celibacy, reveals closing
pope says events of Year for Priests
VATICAN CITY, May 19, 2010—A life dedicated to prayer, peni-
tence, and conversion will overcome the threats, dangers and horrors VATICAN CITY, May 20, 2010—The sec- but above all it is essential to adhere to the
that mark human history, Pope Benedict XVI said. retary for the Congregation for the Clergy, source of everything, Christ himself.”
Our Lady of Fatima invites everyone to trust in God, experience Archbishop Mauro Piacenza, said this week
his grace and "fall in love with him—the source of love and peace," that celibacy, which was embraced by Christ Closing of the Year for Priests
he said during his general audience May 19. throughout his whole life and to which all In explaining the events for the closing
Speaking to about 13,000 people in St. Peter's Square, the pope those who consecrate their lives to Church of the Year of Priests scheduled for June
detailed some of the highlights of his May 11-14 trip to Portugal. are called, signifies “total dedication to the 9-11, Archbishop Piacenza said the first day
He said the voyage was "unforgettable" and represented "a touching service of God and man.” would be dedicated to conversion and the
experience for me, rich with many spiritual gifts." In an interview with the Vatican newspaper mission of priests.
The trip allowed to pope to pay homage to Our Lady of Fatima L’Osservatore Romano, the archbishop re- “We will gather at the Basilica of St. Paul
when he visited the Marian shrine marking the site where three vealed details about the closing of the Year of Outside the Walls, where following the
shepherd children witnessed a series of apparitions beginning May Priests and spoke about Jesus' life of celibacy. example of the Apostle to the Gentiles, we
13, 1917. Christ’s state of virginity, Archbishop will meditate on the dimension of permanent
"The demanding yet comforting message Our Lady left at Fatima Piacenza said, “was united in full harmony conversion in the life of the priest and on the
is full of hope," the pope said. with his mission as mediator between Heav- sanctity and efficacy of his mission.”
He said Mary calls everyone to a life of "prayer, penance and con- en and earth and as eternal priest. The Son The second day “was originally planned
version, which surpass the threats, dangers, and horrors of history." of God took on human form and entrusted for the Basilica of St. Mary Major, but the
She invites humanity to have hope "in God's merciful love and trust himself completely to the Father, giving Him great number of priests who have registered,
in his saving plan, which triumphs over the threats and calamities the total and exclusive love of his own heart now nearly seven thousand, will not have
of history," he said. … Virginity is part of his very essence.” enough space in the Marian basilica so we
© 4thepriests.wordpress.com
“Christ is virginity itself and therefore he will be at St. Paul’s again. The idea is to meet
is its model,” he explained. together in a renewed cenacle, as apostles
Reflecting on the Church's requirement gathered around the Blessed Virgin Mary
of celibacy for priests and religious, the awaiting the Spirit.”
archbishop noted, “There are certainly many The closing Mass on Friday, June 11, will
reasons why celibacy is convenient, both be celebrated by Pope Benedict XVI. (CNA/
historical and biblical, spiritual and pastoral, Archbishop Mauro Piacenza EWTN News)
violence that targeted anti-mining advocates in Buguey, Cagayan. Anti-mining advocates Pedrito Tabaco and his brother-in-law
Alyansa Tigil Mina (ATM), a network of environmental and human Alfredo Rabit were shot down by unidentified men while riding
rights groups also asked for a stricter implementation of peace and together in a motorcycle on their way home in Barangay Leron
order in the province to protect anti-mining leaders from violence. Buguey on November 30 last year.
“We have already recorded five deaths of anti-mining activists Mining in Cagayan is a hot political issue. The recent election
within the span of six months since November last year,” said in Cagayan has been the battleground between the pro- and anti-
ATM national coordinator Jaybee Garaganera. mining candidates.
The pope recalled that during an encounter with Portuguese par- The recent victim of violence was San Lorenzo barangay liason “Right now we fear for the lives of other anti-mining local of-
ish groups and Catholic organizations, he called on the faithful to officer Adamson Arellano, who was shot in the leg and foot by ficials and activists, who remain strong on their position against
serve Christ and promote the common good. unidentified men on May 17. mining operations in the province especially in Buguey,” Gar-
In fact, he said, at Fatima many young people experience the “Arellano is lucky to have escaped death. But it is not the same ganera said.
importance of serving the needy because the shrine is "a school for the five anti-mining activists who have already died from the “Arellano, Arzadon, Buenaflor, Agustin, Tabaco and Rabit were
of faith, of hope, and also a school of charity and service to one's brutal killings while their respective families have yet to claim all known strong supporters of staunch anti-mining Buguey mayor
brothers and sisters." justice,” Garganera said Ignacio Taruc who recently ran against the son of Senator Juan
The pope said he encouraged all lay faithful to evangelize the Fula barangay captain William Arzadon died instantly on May 15, Ponce Enrile and another contender for the House Representative
places where they live and work and plant the seeds of hope. when unidentified men peppered him with bullets while riding his seat in Cagayan first district,” he explained.
Christians have the duty to give witness to the Gospel so that motorcycle on his way home in Buguey. According to Comelec results Taruc got only 40.42 percent of
"every situation of difficulty, suffering or fear may be transformed Conrado Buenaflor, another anti-mining advocate was shot by an the total votes in the Congressional race against 56.23 percent of
through the Holy Spirit into an occasion for growth and of life," he unknown gunman in front of his own house in Barangay Leron on Juan Ponce Enrile, Jr.
said. (CNS) May 9. Buenaflor was a member of the Citizen Action Unit (CAU) “We seek for government’s action to fast track investigations of
and head of Task Force Lapu-Lapu, that monitors shoreline mining the recent shooting of Adamson Arellano and killings of William
MANILA, May 20, 2010—At least 42 In a statement, Dr. Erwin Erfe, PAO’s and handedness. comply with the court order issued over of identified skeletal remains on
skeletal remains were retrieved from Forensic Laboratory Director said they “This skeletal profile will be compared in 2009 to turn over all identification June 21, 2010, in time for the maritime
the wreckage of M/V Princess of the have in their possession 85 human skel- with the ante-mortem data or physical records and physical evidence to the tragedy’s second anniversary.
Stars some 70 feet below water level etal remains, all victims of M/V Princess characteristics provided by relatives Cebu Regional Trial Court. Meanwhile, Immaculate Conception
off the coasts of San Fernando town of the Stars that sank last June 21, 2008. and heirs of the victims,” Erfe said in a Had it not been for the NBI’s refusal Parish rector Fr. Aristeo B. Royo said
in Sibuyan Island, Romblon by joint Before the end of the month, the PAO statement sent to CBCPNews. to turn-over identification records and he welcomes the retrieval operations
elements of the Philippine Coast Guard Forensic Team assisted by Philippine He said they will also utilize forensic physical evidence, Erfe said, the exhu- launched by the Public Attorneys Of-
(PCG) and the Public Attorney’s Office Coast Guard divers and the Royal Jes- photography using the latest techniques mation, retrieval and identification of fice, Philippine Coast Guard and the
(PAO) recently. san Petromin Resources, Inc., will re- in ultraviolet and infrared visualiza- victims could have been made sooner. salvage firm.
Chief Public Attorney Persida V. trieve the remaining 400 human skeletal tions to analyze the physical evidence “At the PAO Forensic Laboratory, we Royo, parish priest for nearly a year
Rueda-Acosta, in an interview said the remains still trapped in the wreckage of associated with the human skeletal are determined to gather the necessary in San Fernando town, said the retrieval
victims have the right to be buried un- the ill-fated inter-island vessel. remains which may include clothing, ante-mortem data from the victims’ rela- operations and eventual identification
der the soil with a name and not under The current 85 human skeletal remains bags, jewelry and documents. tives,” he said. The victims’ relatives are would help the relatives who have been
the sea. and the expected 400 remains about to be “We expect these methods to gener- requested to provide information about at a loss since the tragedy struck almost
The Philippine Coast Guard under retrieved will all undergo detailed osteo- ate more information about the victims’ their missing kin by calling PAO Foren- two years ago.
Admiral Wilfredo D. Tamayo provided logical (bone) examination to establish identities,” he added. sic Laboratory at 9299436 or through “With the use of forensics, this project
divers to help the PAO staff and the each and everyone’s skeletal profile and Erfe said the head of the NBI Disaster email at paoforensics@yahoo.com.ph is a welcome development,” Fr. Royo
personnel of the salvage firm. determine one’s ancestry, age, sex, height Victim Identification team refused to Erfe said they hope to begin the turn- said. (Melo M. Acuna)
A4 Opinion CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 11
May 24 - June 6, 2010
and riding a tiger Spaces of Hope sensual reaction generally runs its full course even if it meets
opposition.”(p.132)
Biological urges are after all part of a grand design. Sexual
desire exists because one needs the other sex to complement one’s
I AM amazed at God’s time. It is never too early or too late. It is least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever practices and teaches own. Urge is an expression of this lack: “The properties which the
always the right time. these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven” woman possesses are not possessed by the man, and vice versa.
I often remind myself of this spiritual insight especially when (Matt 5:19). There exists for each of them the possibility of supplementing
cynics and critics comment on how late our efforts are concerning It was also two months before elections. his or her own attributes with those of a person of the other sex,
faith-impelled election engagement. They fail to see that any faith- but at times a keenly felt need to do so.”(p.48)
impelled effort that is volunteer-driven necessarily waits on the **** From here Wojtyla establishes what is normal from deviant
Lord, as the Israelites did when they took their cue from the pillar sexuality. “The natural direction of the sexual urge is towards a
of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night (Ex 13:21). If not for a photograph that captured that singular moment, I human being of the other sex and not merely towards ‘the other
One Catholic philosopher had a name for this; he called this the probably would have thought the experience was all an illusion. I sex’ as such.” (p.49) The personalistic norm is “person of the other
emergent probabilities. In this perspective, there are no absolute had sat alone behind a 300 lb. Thai tiger, gingerly putting my left sex.” Pornography, fetishism, homosexuality, and self-indulgence
necessities apart from God; everything else emerges. When emergent hand close to its underside and my right on its head. even with heterosexual fantasy do not deal with “persons” but
probabilities converge, one sees the hand of a caring God who pays Surprisingly I felt no fear. Everything today happened so sud- mere attributes and idealizations. In sex, there is a meeting not
attention to details. denly at a crocodile farm in Bangkok. I did not engage in all sorts only of genitals but of the personhood of the partner—his or her
One prayerfully pays attention, therefore, to the emergence of of “what-if” analysis and just trusted the animal handler. body and soul, mind, emotion, and sensibilities.
God’s plan. This active waiting does not sit well with a technologi- When Dilaab volunteers started the first circle of discernment in What is the language of the sexualized body? It has an exis-
cally-oriented culture that seeks control, rather than surrender and June 2008—helping to bring together individuals and groups trying tential value, a unitive and procreative meaning. The end per se
amazement. to do something about graft and corruption—we really did not know is not even love, but something more supra-personal, leading to
When we planned for the launching of the Vote God campaign, where we would be headed. Nine circles later, we had a sense that the existence of another person via procreation. Sex does not only
we relied on God’s time. We did not start by choosing a date that is the God of providence was directing us to intensely engage the May spell love and hatred, but also life and death. “The existence of
significant, then work our way back. Instead, we asked for the only 2010 elections. We just had to trust Him. the species Homo is the first and basic good for that species. All
time the Archbishop of Cebu was available. Year 2009 saw the emergence of a nationwide CiDE (circles of other goods derive from this good.”(p.51)
The morning of Wednesday 10 March was his only free time. It discernment for elections) network, birthed to by the CiDE seminar. The ends of the sexual union are thus three: procreation, con-
was also a good time for most Dilaab volunteers and, as it turned While we had worked hard, the results have been amazingly effort- jugal life (mutuum adiutorium), and satisfaction of desire (re-
out, for members of the media. The Mass readings hit the nail on less since they go beyond our poor human limitations. medium concupiscentiae). “But there is no question of opposing
the head with its insistence on following God’s commandments Those of us involved in CiDE and its VOTE GOD campaign for love to procreation nor yet of suggesting that procreation takes
to become a “great nation” with a “wise and understanding elections recognized that our only real qualification for such engage- precedence over love,” (p.68) Wojtyla writes.
people” (Deut 4:6). “Anyone who breaks one of the least of these ment is that we really do not know what we are getting into. Again, pleasure plays a role in securing the relationship. Joyful
commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called We just ride the tiger and trust the trainer. pleasure linked with love is the only manner worthy of human
beings. “This joy, this frui, may be bestowed either by the great
Jose B. Lugay
Successful variety of pleasures…or by the sexual enjoyment which conjugal
relations can bring.”(p.61)
Laiko Lampstand automated election Differences in attraction exist because of differences in sen-
sitivity on another’s “good” features. One’s will is still affected
by his receptivity based on “congenital and hereditary factors,
Unhappy losers partly on characteristics acquired…or as a result of conscious
effort.”(p.76)
ALL previous presidential elections of turn, even the special line for the Senior international observers of the automated There is danger however when the decisive factor in attrac-
the Philippines were marred by election Citizens, was a scene of eager and patient election last May 10 gave a plus rating—a tion is a mere ideal, and is not inherent in the person. “If only
violence and cheating. The scheme to voters uncomplaining of the hot and humid very successful automated election, the first a particular attribute is highlighted, then his value might hinge
cheat by ruling dynasties in the previous sunny day. As anticipated by management one conducted in Southeast Asia. Mr. Cesar only to that attribute. In pornography this is the usual tempta-
local elections had affected the total votes experts of Ateneo, there was failure in plan- Flores, President of Smartmatic, obviously tion, “the ideal is more powerful than the real.” (p.112) And if a
of national candidates including those of ning by the management staff of Comelec pleased with this assessment, gave credit person wants another as a good for himself, then he must want
Senators, Vice-President and President. The specially in the clustering of precincts (up to the Filipino people for their vigilance, that other person to be really good. So from “I long for you as a
famous Hello Garci scandal has confirmed to 5 precincts into one) as well as the time patience and perseverance to make this good,” one says, “I long for your good.” (p.83)
the involvement of Comelec officials in the estimated for completion of voting. It has, election truly the voice of the people for How does one make the other fall in love? Part of it is bodily
dagdag-bawas scheme in Maguindanao— as expected, extended voting beyond the 7 change. attraction, Wojtyla admits. Sensuality is “the natural reaction to a
the manipulation to add one million votes p.m. deadline. Meantime, as the law requires, all person of the other sex, is a sort of raw material for true, conjugal
for the favored presidential candidate. The saving grace of the whole election winning candidates were proclaimed by love.”(p.108) He elaborates: “An exuberant and readily roused
Since the successful experiment on the undertaking, with all the glitches, caused Comelec, the 12 senators, the congressmen sensuality is the stuff from which a rich—if difficult—personal
use of automation in the ARMM election in by technical and managerial failure, was of the different congressional districts, the life may be made. It may help the individual to respond more
2007, and the eventual passage of revised the fast reporting of the canvass results by local candidates except those who belong readily and completely to the decisive elements in personal
automation election law, R.A. 9893 in 2008, Comelec and PPCRV starting 3 hours after to areas where there was a declared fail- love.” (p.109)
the reigning dynasty in Maguindanao, the the close of balloting. By the next day, the ure of election like areas in Lanao. The But the raw materials of sensuality and sympathy can be
Ampatuan family, faced for the first time a count was already approaching totals cor- leading president and vice-president in “squandered” or wasted if they do not lead to love. It begins
possible threat to the continuation of their responding to more than 80% of the number both the Comelec and PPCRV electoral as a principle or idea which people must somehow live up to
dynasty. They must have realized that of clustered precincts. Compared to the count as well as the exit polls – Noynoy in their behavior.”(p.29) Love at first sight or first embrace just
they could no longer corner the votes for last election of 2007 the counting was so Aquino and Jejomar Binay – will have to can’t be true. But one can learn to love a person from that first
themselves. The automated election was fast that the first 9 senatorial winners were wait for the results of the Congressional sight or first embrace.
quick in the recording and transmission proclaimed on May 15, and the last 3 sena- Canvass before final proclamation as re- How does one measure love? Love is gauged by responsibility.
of the consolidated votes to the Board of tors in the winning lineup, on March 18. The quired by law. “The greater the feeling of responsibility for the person the more
Canvassers. This will reflect for the first presidential candidates Manny Villar, Gibo What are the lessons that we have true love there is.” (p.131) Love is also by very nature creative
time, the true will of the people—hence the Teodoro, Robert Gordon, Eddie Villanueva, learned from this successful election us- and constructive. Thus, love finds its way to please the other,
end of the reign of the Ampatuans in Magu- Nicanor Perlas and J.C. delos Reyes all ing the automated system? Let me quote and is evident even in courtships. A man finds in sexual love
indanao. Their counter to the automation conceded defeat 3 days after election day. the assessment of Mr. Gus Lagman, who a concentration of energies he did not know he possess before.
plan has resulted in what is now known as However, the losers of this election com- was in the forefront among the I.T. profes- “A salient feature of sexual love is its great intensity—which
the worst political killing in the history of plained like all past election losers – they sionals in opposing the choice of the PCOS indirectly testifies to the force of the sexual instinct and its im-
elections in the Philippines—the killing of claimed they were cheated and they will machine: portance in human life. (p.116)
the registrant as proxy to the gubernatorial file their electoral protests to the Comelec “I am very happy that Manila started receiv- The full stage of love is reached when the “I” is inseparable
candidate, the wife of Vice Mayor Mangun- and the courts. ing the data not long after the polls closed and from the “I” of the other. It is a love that lasts in sickness and
dadatu, together with a group of 53 persons, A noisy congressional committee hearing that the result of the presidential elections was in health, in richness and in poverty, for better or for worse; a
including relatives, lawyers and 30 media chaired by Congressman Teddy Locsin, was resolved early. That was truly amazing and al- love that in all conditions cannot abandon the other because
personnel. instigated by a whistle-blower through a most unbelievable! Nonetheless I still maintain the other is already part of oneself. “The strength of such a love
At last after a series of cliff-hanging inci- video – a masked man quickly named by my original position that the technology chosen emerges more clearly when the beloved person stumbles, when
dents regarding the PCOS machine failures Locsin as the “koala” due his appearance by Comelec had a high probability of failure and his or her weakness or even sins come into the open.” Wojtyla
during testing as well as the last-minute similar to that of the Australian mam- that because counting was not public, it would elucidates, “One who truly loves does not then withdraw his
technical glitch of the re-configuration of mal. The investigating body as well as the be easy to automate wholesale cheating. That love, but loves all the more, loves in full consciousness of the
Compact Security Card which was unable audience received the so-called expose of neither seemed to have happened in the last other’s shortcomings and faults, and without in the least ap-
to read the flip side of the ballot containing massive cheating which reduced the votes elections does not mean that these statements proving them.” (p.135)
the names of local candidates, the election intended for presidential candidate J. Es- are no longer true.” The commitment of monogamy in marriage is necessary “to
proceeded as planned. It was held exactly trada with incredulity. Yes, there were des- As the saying goes, “man proposes but signify the maturity of the union between a man and a woman,
as stated by Comelec on May 10, 2010 start- ignated time records by the PCOS machine God disposes”. After all, the prayers led by to testify that theirs is a love on which a lasting union and com-
ing 7 a.m. An hour before the start, the indicating the recording was done prior Cardinal Gaudencio Rosales, the Bishops of munity can be based, a family can rightly be found. (p.220)
precincts were already full of voters in to the election day or after. Smartmatic the different dioceses and the organized la- If a man truly loves his wife, he will as well regard the natural
the F. Bernardo High School in Barangay personnel’s explanation could not satisfy ity for a peaceful and successful automated order, the natural cycles of a woman, through natural family
Bagong Lipunan, Quezon City, where the Chair who lost his temper. Be that as election were heard and answered! God Lifeguard / A7
I voted. The long line waiting for their it may, the verdict of the more than 100 bless the Filipino people!
Local News
CBCP Monitor
A6 Vol. 14 No. 11
May 24 - June 6, 2010
says prelate
programs implemented by the Department of Social Welfare and as well,” the 75-year old prelate stressed.
Development helped the people achieve better lives. He said it is imperative for the general public to know that justice
Dumaguete Bishop John Du said the government’s development is not just for the poor but for the affluent people too.
programs and the significant contributions of overseas Filipinos The Arroyo critic said the government should also go after the
helped propped up the economy and provided some relief despite likes of former Agriculture Undersecretary Jocelyn Bolante who was THE country’s 15th president should be able to fulfill his cam-
the global economic crisis. reported to have been involved in the controversial “P 728 million paign promise of getting corruption out of the government’s
For his part, Batanes Bishop Camilo Gregorio said he and other bish- fertilizer scam.” system and put a stop on poverty.
ops have carefully monitored government infrastructure projects. Bishop Du said he hopes soon-to-be President Aquino would ad- Jaro Archbishop and former CBCP President Angel N. Lag-
“These projects helped a lot of Filipinos,” he said, adding that dress the country’s problems from poverty to corruption and should dameo said the incoming president should have as number
the government should encourage private companies to invest in remain open to suggestions from the general public. concern the poverty alleviation and getting rid of corruption in
transportation facilities in the 302 square-mile prelature. “Let us pray Senator Aquino’s management style would be government upon assumption on June 30 this year.
But the 70-year old prelate also acknowledged that despite the ac- a departure from the present one,” the soft-spoken prelate “How he will accomplish his campaign promise depends on
complishments of the administration, all these were overshadowed added. his imagination and that of his official family, the members of
by reports of graft and corrupt practices. But Bishop Gregorio said the people should not expect instant his cabinet, not simply to minimize but move for its eradication
Even Bishop Du said the government should be able to address changes and improvement in their lives. would be a big challenge [that] he has to face,” the 69-year old
reports of graft and corruption which has haunted the administra- He reminded the people to be more cautious, realistic and pa- prelate told Catholic-run Veritas 846 in an interview.
tion for a long time. tient enough because the country cannot simply recover from its Aside from battling corruption, soon-to-be President Benigno
Meanwhile, Bangued Bishop Leopoldo Jaucian, SVD said the problems at once. Aquino III should provide opportunities for the poor to gain ac-
government’s poverty alleviation programs which include Kalahi Bishop Jaucian, for his part, said the country’s prelates expect cess to education through projects similar to the one implemented
and Pantawid-Gutom both implemented by the Department of Social Senator Aquino to be a defender of life and a successful executive by Bukas Loob sa Diyos community by providing scholarships
Welfare and Development helped the poorest of Abra’s residents. out to defeat poverty. (Melo Acuña) to poor but deserving students.
The 49-year old However, the former CBCP president declined to comment
prelate credited Ar- on the accomplishments of the outgoing Arroyo administration
royo for not mak- by saying it would be easy for one to look at the infrastructure
ing the controver- program because they are very visible.
sial Reproductive “People can easily see and assess the infrastructures built and
Health Bill an ur- look at their quality,” he added.
gent measure. He said President Arroyo lost the people’s trust when she re-
neged on her promise in 2004 that she would not run for presiden-
New president tial elections. Since then, people started to doubt her sincerity.
should address cor- Lagdameo also noted that the controversies attributed to the
ruption Arroyo administration did not have appropriate closures due to
The prelates said the unusually slow justice system in the country.
the incoming presi- The prelate from Jaro said now that President Arroyo swore
dent should be able into office Chief Justice Renato Corona, the new chief justice
to address graft and Bishop John Du Bishop Camilo Gregorio Bishop Leopoldo Jaucian should “do what his predecessor did, [to maintain] the integrity
and independence of the Supreme Court.” (Melo M. Acuna)
Proof / A1
ing was carried out in three ways: by switch- Sen. Aquilino Pimentel, former senator Fran- In one of the hearings held last May 25, Collaboration / A1
ing the ballots; using pre-programmed flash cisco Tatad and a representative of losing Locsin criticized Bishop Odchimar for issu- said in a radio interview.
cards; and by intercepting the transmission senatorial bet Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim. ing “an ignorant statement” urging election But the bishop said the CBCP would not also hesitate to criticize
from the counting machines and replacing In a news report, Cunanan, a known losers to present evidence before complain- policies of the forthcoming Aquino administration if it would go
these with their own transmissions. sympathizer of the Arroyo administration ing. against the moral principles and teachings of the church.
He also claimed that Makati Mayor Jejo- and was later backing the presidential bid “That is what they have been doing here “At the same time we will also be critical in matters which we
mar Binay paid “players” to rig the outcome of Manny Villar, admitted he and his group (committee). The CBCP should be careful would perceive to be detrimental to the common good,” said
of the elections while Senator Manuel “Mar” were indeed “gate crashers.” about its statements lest it confirm the old Odchimar.
Roxas II hired another group of players. He said they merely wanted to get as but historically accurate Spanish adage The CBCP head, for instance, cited the church’s “non-negotiable”
wide an audience as possible. He added that it is only the least capable of the sons stand against measures that promotes birth control.
Gate crasher no politician knew they were going to the that go into the priesthood even as it is the Aquino is a known supporter of the controversial Reproductive
The video was brought to the forum by Church forum. most independent and intelligent of the Health bill which provides the government to promote artificial
newspaper columnist Buddy Cunanan, who girls in a family who go to the convents,” contraception if it becomes law.
according to Msgr. Pedro Quitorio, CBCP Misread said Locsin. Odchimar admitted the issue of birth control is one thing that
media office director, “was a not formally Investigation is currently ongoing be- But in an interview over Radyo Veritas “might not be in conformity” with the next president.
invited to the media forum.” ing conducted by the House Committee on May 26, the lawmaker admitted to have “Then we have to lobby once again to make our position clear that
He said the guest list had only losing on Suffrage on Electoral Reforms headed taken Odchimar’s statement out of context. we are for human life, the respect and preservation of human life is
presidential bets Jamby Madrigal, Nicanor by PDP-Laban Rep. Teodoro Locsin Jr. of (With reports from Kent de la Cruz and non-negotiable,” he said. (CBCPNews)
Perlas, and John Carlos de los Reyes, and Makati City. Ronalyn Ramos)
Politics / A1
‘Clean’ / A1 “debt of gratitude” proved to be too costly for Arroyo as she re-
was any attempt, then they failed to pull it off,” De Villa said in a Such was seen in Commonwealth Elementary School. paid politicians for support and loyalty which provided lifeline to
press conference Wednesday. While in four precincts, the group observed that the candidates got traditional politicians.
The PPCRV official, however, said the allegations of cheating are higher votes in the transmission compared to their record in the ER The prelate said patronage politics may have driven the admin-
still something that is not worth downplaying. wherein they only registered single digit number of votes. They cited istration to get involved in controversies involving huge amounts
“Accusations backed by evidence must be looked into and thor- the Libas Elementary School in Roxas City, Capiz as an example. of money.
oughly investigated so that the credibility of the elections 2010 will For De Villa, the discrepancies found so far between electronically However, Bagaforo hopes the next president will exert enough
not be unjustly tarnished. The ultimate losers in the discredited transmitted election results and ERs that its volunteers had manually efforts to unite the country and its people especially after a bitterly-
elections are always the people and our democracy,” she said. examined were still negligible. fought political exercise that brought 91 election-related violent
The PPCRV said they have so far received 70,255 of the 76,475 elec- “It’s up to the Comelec now to explain how these discrepancies incidents, which left 32 people dead, 43 wounded, and 3 missing.
tion returns, which accounts for 92.02 percent of the grand total. happened,” she said. (CBCPNews) Police authorities are still validating some 87 incidents which
As of this posting, they have so far encoded 43,035 ERs of which resulted to the killing of 22 and wounding of 42 others while five
only 29 precincts which represent only .07 percent showed discrep- Values / A1
others have remained missing.
ancies, an indication of the accuracy of the electronic count. character,” he added. The government’s gun ban resulted to the arrest of 2,796 violators
The discrepancies spotted in the 29 ERs or clustered precincts were He explained there is perhaps a probable message behind the and the confiscation of some 2,427 assorted firearms including air
divided to four categories. The first type, wherein the candidates get phenomenon as what the hippies of the 60s and the jeprox of the guns and airsoft rifles.
zero votes, was reported in four precincts. This was the case in San 70s tried to express. “We have been too polarized due to political affiliations and for
Nicholas Elementary School in Bacoor Cavite. While it may be confusing for people who could not understand the first 100 days, we should see in our leader his capability to unite
The second type, where in the transmission of votes a candidate the latest fad, society may have to accept the trend because one can- and establish a significant unifying theme,” he said.
would get a minus of one vote and these were reflected in at least not simply stop it, the bishop said. The prelate said it is imperative not to further polarize and divide the
two precincts. This was the example in a precinct in Upper Bicutan Baylon called on teachers not to adapt to the latest trend, but country so the people can move forward and begin all over again.
Elementary School in Taguig City. instead improve grammar by teaching well. The next president should be able to steer his official family, his
Majority of 19 clustered precincts spotted with discrepancy fell “They should keep, maintain and if possible improve the standards management team and political parties in supporting his programs.
under the third category wherein the transmitted votes of the can- as the youngsters today are not setting standards and they are not They should have clear agenda and goals that need to be achieved
didates were all less than 10 compared to the numbers in the ERs. telling us how to speak and write,” he added. (Melo M. Acuña) over time, Bagaforo said.
The bishop said he also wants to hear from the incoming President
Love / A4 his plans for Mindanao even before the scheduled 2011 elections in
but called Anton instead for help. I could what had to be done for their children. As are just one couple among hundreds of con- the troubled Autonomous Region, and a clear relationship between
see that the greatest pain they felt was the of this writing, Nina’s medical situation has fused and desperate persons caught in the the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.
lack of TRUST that they would understand not been resolved. She has had four bags of abortion syndicate. Too many are hurting at He said the road to peace will require sincere dialogue and consulta-
and help, instead of condemn their own blood transfusion, massive antibiotics and the expense of the money-makers. And all of tions with all the stakeholders, the process started by Konsult Mind-
daughter. drugs to stop the bleeding. More tests has us have a part in the evil of abortion—yes, anaw through the Bishops-Ulama Conference and transparency.
Parents are hurt tremendously in the abor- to be done—very expensive MRI and special all of us—for our indifference, our tolerat- “Whoever sits in the panel should be transparent and avoid con-
tion of their daughter. They cannot avoid the laboratory tests before the team of doctors ing the circumstances that lead to abortion flicts through the averted signing of the controversial Memorandum
truth that it is their grandchild that has died. decide what to do. Removing the uterus of such as sex outside marriage, the population of Agreement on Ancestral Domain sometime ago,” he said.
Although there is much anger there, the guilt a girl of her age is the last of their choices. control/contraceptive-abortive mentality, He further added transparency between the negotiators would
and confusion drives them to blaming self Her hospital bill could run up to half a mil- self-righteousness that drive away the lost prevent confusion and violent reactions from the stakeholders.
and asking what did they do wrong. Unless lion pesos! from seeking our kind counsel, and the (Melo Acuña)
they have a deep spirituality and an experi- On my part, I am tracing the online abor- lack of participation in the Church’s pro-life
ence of an all-forgiving Lord, they resort to tion connection that Anton had searched in mission. Integrity / A1
violence or abandonment—“bahala kayo sa the internet in order to find a way to get those Please save our Pro-life Counseling Center exploitation of environment and instead “will encourage sustainable
problemang pinasukan niyo!” abortionists in Kalookan raided, put in jail number – (632) 733-7027/ 0919-233-7783. use of resources.”
Thank God their parents were understand- and have at least one abortionist stop dozens The life you save today may save your life But the groups said Aquino can realized his environmental objec-
ing and Godly persons. They attended to of babies killed every week. Anton and Nina tomorrow! tives only if he appoint a person of integrity in the department.
“To fulfill your environmental objectives, your Excellency will
Mary / A4 need to appoint an alter ego at the Department of Environment and
have always been God-fearing and family-loving people. But I it is an issue among so many. It is a spiritual warfare, in the fullest Natural Resources (DENR)—one who has indubitable integrity,
would not be true to my priestly ministry if I would not state it sense of the word. indefatigable leadership, unstinting political will and above all
now. We cannot take things for granted. We cannot be engaged in In the wake of the very first bad news, that is the falling into sin faithfulness to ecological values in pushing for real solutions to the
a guerilla warfare all the time. We cannot be tepid and lukewarm of Adam and Eve, the very first good news (that is why we refer whole gamut of environmental issues that we face (including) the
when it comes to Family and Life values. Family and Life should to it as the Protoevangelium), is the promise of the Woman. This formulation and implementation of adaptation strategies to foster
always be our primary concern. Woman who said yes to Angel Gabriel. This same Woman who public preparedness and resilience to climate change, and instituting
Time and again, I have written and said in many fora, the first mediated to Her Son for His very first miracle at Cana. The same chemicals policy reforms towards a toxic-free society for our children
battle waged in world was the battle between the Woman and Her Woman faithful at the foot of the Cross. This Woman clothed with and people,” the groups said in their letter.
Fruit on one hand, and the Serpent in the other (cf. Gen. 3, 15) and the Sun. The environmental groups who endorsed the criteria were the
the last battle to be waged would be between the Woman and the In the wake of this Warfare, to this Woman we have to have re- Alaga Lahat, Alyansa Tigil Mina, EcoWaste Coalition, Greenpeace,
Fruit of Her Womb on one side, and the Dragon, the same ancient course to. This same Woman was present at the coming of the Holy Green Convergence for Safe Food, Healthy Environment and Sus-
Serpent, on the other (cf. Rev. 12). Spirit (cf. Acts 1, 14). This Woman, ever present at the critical junc- tainable Economy, Interface Development Interventions, Miss Earth
It was and will always be defending the Woman and the Child in tures of the salvation of mankind, is present at this final battle. Foundation, Pambansang Katipunan ng mga Samahan sa Kanayu-
Her Womb. Life is a gift from God and the Serpent will do anything May, Mary, Mediatrix of All-Grace, obtain for us the strength, nan, Philippine Rural Reconstruction Movement, Save Sierra Madre
to end that transmission of life. Whether we like it or not, whether the wisdom, the fortitude to constantly defend God’s gifts of Fam- Network and many other groups from Metro Manila, Luzon, Visayas
we admit it or not, defending Family and Life is not just an advocacy, ily and Life. and Mindanao. (CBCPNews)
Diocesan News
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 11
May 24 - June 6, 2010
A7
Briefing
Election fraud bared in Aurora town
Church lawyer to
media: ‘peddle
DINGALAN, Aurora—San Patricio parish priest Fr. Pete Mon-
talla disclosed the rampant vote buying that was manifested
through out the election period at Dingalan, Aurora as moni-
tored by the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting.
Political hopefuls induced the town by pouring cash, food,
improved roads, promised jobs, among others, in exchange for
a government seat. (Jason de Asis)
Peñafrancia pilgrim
image visits malls
THE Bicol Region’s patroness, Our Lady of Peñafrancia was brought The Mother’s Day event coincided with the launching of the
to one of the country’s popular malls for a visit on May 22-23, as part Project 3 Million Rosaries of the Archdiocese of Caceres in time
of the preparatory activities for the 300th anniversary in September for the Tercentenary Celebration on the second and third weeks of
this year. September this year.
The pilgrim image was brought by motorcade to the Chapel of Three Million Rosaries Project Directress Dr. Agnes Claros said
the Eucharistic Lord at the Atrium of SM Mega Mall from St. James they have already received over a hundred thousand rosaries as of
Parish in Alabang, Muntinlupa City. present. With over three months before the festivities, she remains
The Bicolano tradition of mantling was held May 23-24 after the optimistic they will be able to realize the goal.
midday Masses. “We hope to send the three million rosaries to the Bicolano youth
For nearly three centuries, the sick have been cured using the man- for them to devoutly pray the Holy Rosary,” Dr. Claros told CBCP-
tle or cape earlier used by the image of Our Lady of Peñafrancia. News. She called on the Catholic faithful to donate their used rosaries
It has also been used by Bicolanos whenever they pray for a specific or cash to buy new rosaries for the project.
favor at crucial times in their lives. Claros said interested parties may send their messages to rosa-
On Mother’s Day weekend, the pilgrim image stayed at Glo- riesforina@yahoo.com.
rietta 5 where Daet Bishop Emeritus Benjamin J. Almoneda pre- Much earlier, Mrs. Carmen “Ming” Villafuerte Bernas and her
sided over a concelebrated Mass with healing priest Fr. Gerardo committee launched the latest coffee table book titled INA: Little
Deveza and Rev. Frs. Louie Occiano and Andrew Recepcion from Stories of Faith at the Yuchengco Museum, RCBC Plaza in Makati
Naga City. City. (Melo M. Acuna)
of IP workers
Organized by the Salesians of Don Bosco the Church. tion and the call to evangelize.
Philippines North Province, the 6th John Participants were catechists and youth Cebu archbishop Ricardo Cardinal Vidal,
Paul II Catechetics and Youth Ministry Con- ministers from various arch/dioceses. The San Fernando, Pampanga Auxiliary Bishop
ference aimed to reflect on spirituality and conference covered on the different talks Roberto Mallari and Malaybalay Bishop-
COMMUNITY representatives and Indigenous apostolate vocation of catechists and youth ministers by on mission for the catechist and the youth emeritus Honesto Pacana were also present
workers have participated in the recent regional consultations focusing on the missionary initiation ministers. and presided the Eucharistic celebration
reflecting on the relationship between the Church and indigenous Organizers said catechesis unfolds the For the catechists, lectures delved on the during the three-day conference.
people communities. mystery of vocation and leads the catechized issue of the vocations from the biblical per- The theme of the conference was "Foster-
Organized by the Episcopal Commission on Indigenous to discover the seed of vocation that God spective and Church teachings; living one’s ing Vocations: Task of Catechesis and Crown
Peoples (ECIP) of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philip- the Creator plants in them while the youth daily life in the mystery of vocation and the of Youth Ministry." (Kate Laceda)
pines (CBCP), the consultation tackled, among other things, key
is PPCRV’s
oldest volunteer
PEOPLE have all sorts
CELEBRATED. Archbishop Ricardo J.
Cardinal Vidal, 25th anniversary of eleva-
tion to the Cardinalate, May 25, 2010.
More than 50 archbishops and bishops
of excuses for not volun- throughout the country, Papal Nuncio
teering their time to vari- Archbishop Edward Joseph Adams, and
priests concelebrated with Cardinal Vidal
ous organizations such the10:00 a.m. Pontifical Mass at the Cebu
as the Parish Pastoral Metropolitan Cathedral. It was on May 25,
Council for Responsible 1985 that Cardinal Vidal received the “red
Voting. hat” during a consistory of the College of
Contributed photo
trude Imperial from the nal Santos, Julio Cardinal Rosales, Vidal’s
Daughters of Charity. predecessor; and Jaime Cardinal Sin, who succeeded Cardinal Santos
The participants reflected on the partnership of IP communities as Archbishop of Manila. Two other cardinals were named after Cardinal
As PPCRV’s oldest Vidal. They are Jose Cardinal Sanchez who was appointed to a Vatican
and the Catholic Church, the public apology of Pope John Paul II volunteer for the 2010 post but now retired; and current archbishop of Manila, Gaudencio Cardinal
to the indigenous peoples, the significance of inculturation and elections, the 82-year Rosales. Cardinal Vidal is the only one left active in ministry among the 28
dialogue in apostolate work, and possible steps to realize genuine old spent her time on cardinals appointed during the 1985 consistory. He was supposed to retire
reconciliation between the Catholic Church and IPs. when he reached his 75th birthday in 2006 but Pope Benedict extended
May 17 helping the poll Sr. Gertrude Imperial, DC his term. The cardinal’s anniversary celebration followed the conclusion of
Held within the whole month of April, the gathering was watchdog in conducting the archdiocesan year-long celebration of its diamond jubilee that ended
organized in the areas of Northern and South Central Luzon, unofficial tally of the May 10 poll results. last April 28, 2010.
Visayas and some parts of Mindanao. Along with other nuns, she was assigned in sorting out election
Organizers said the consultations were done in preparation returns (ERs) for encoding at the PPCRV command center in Pope CONFERRED. Fr. Roderick Salazar, Jr., SVD
for this year’s celebration of Indigenous Peoples Sunday which with a degree of Doctor of Humanities, Honoris
Pius XII Center in Manila. Causa by St. Paul University, Tuguegarao on
will revolve around the theme of “Reconciliation.” “I want a change in the government for the Filipinos to have bet- March 19, 2010. A highly respected academi-
The Catholic Church led by the late Pope John Paul II, has com- ter lives… that encouraged me to volunteer despite my old age,” cian, Fr. Salazar’s significant contribution to
mitted itself to an examination of conscience, apologizing to the Imperial said. the field of education was cited during the
indigenous peoples for the failure of the Church to uphold and conferment of the honorary degree. With
The nun isn’t quite in shape as she gets too tired these days, but his visionary leadership, Fr. Salazar led San
respect their cultural and religious rights as a people. she is still persistent with her volunteer activity. Carlos University, Cebu City as its president
One of the faults highlighted was the violation of rights of “I am enjoying my work here. It’s also nice to see many young from 2002-2008. He also served as chairman
ethnic groups and peoples and the “contempt for their cultures people who also share the same vision of having credible elections,” and president of the Catholic Educational As-
and religious traditions.” (Kate Laceda) sociation of the Philippines (CEAP) and the
she added. (Roy Lagarde/CBCPNews) Coordinating Council of Private Educational
Associations (COCOPEA). A native of Bicol,
you do in the period of prayer T h e learned to live with values from our parents.
Church and in conclusion of We heard with amazement the stories of
society. The and reflection on the Year for goodness from our elders. Parents retold
Church loves the priesthood. At Priests will not to us the stories of Jesus, Son of God, friend
you, admires the same time we be, properly and lover of men and women.
youandrespects want to be alert speaking, a
you. You are, conclusion, Generous Parents
moreover,
to what the Holy but a new Once I met a couple, a very fine pair
a joy for our Spirit wants to say beginning. We, of a beautiful young woman and an
Catholic people to us. Meanwhile the People of accomplished man, a professional, who
throughout the we will return to God and its truly love each other as young Christians.
world and it shepherds, For more than ten years they prayed for a
welcomes you
the exercise of want to thank child. They were childless. Childlessness
and supports our mission in the the Lord for brought them closer to each other and even
you, especially Church and in the this privileged more so, closer to God who gave them that
in theses times world with renewed p e r i o d of fate of childlessness. Their prayer was
of suffering. prayer and answered with a blessing and a beautiful
Within two
joy and with the reflection on daughter was given the couple on their
months we will conviction that the priesthood. eleventh year of marriage. I met them
have reached God, the Lord of At the same again and gave them a blessing, this time
the conclusion history, remains time we want to to a family. They announced publicly, that
of the Year for be alert to what they are going to pray that the Lord will
with us, both in the Holy Spirit
Priests. The one day give a vocation to this little girl.
Pope, dear crises and in new wants to say to Contemplative vocation, if possible, so
priests, invites times. us. Meanwhile that, after taking good care of this child
© Noli Yamsuan/RCAM
you from the we will return and lavishing on her the love she deserves
heart to come to Rome from to the exercise of our mission as a child of God, they could return her to
every part of the world for this in the Church and in the world whom she really belongs.
conclusion, on the 9th, 10th with renewed joy and with the Parents of priests, that is exactly what
and 11th June next. From every conviction that God, the Lord of you pray for and do, when you allow your
country in the world! Shouldn’t history, remains with us, both in sons to become priests. You return to God
we expect many thousands of crises and in new times. a young man whom God may freely use
them from the countries nearest May the Virgin Mary, Mother It is first from our parents that we learned spoke about a vocation to the priesthood, but in order to reach out to others, and bring
Rome? Do not, then, hesitate and Queen of Priests, intercede how to pray. And we learned prayer from his example was in a way my first seminary, them the goodness and love of a caring
to respond to the heartfelt and for us and inspire us in the them, both by example and struggle. a kind of domestic seminary” (JP-II, Gift Divinity.
cordial invitation of the Holy following of her Son Jesus Christ, Sometimes we totally take for granted the and Mystery, p.20). More than this, a priest who comes from
Father. Come to Rome and our Lord. role of praying parents in the determining of Praying parents are nearly all destined to a family brings with him all the goodness
God will bless you. The Pope our priestly vocation or the very beginning be mothers or fathers of a nun, a brother or and the uprightness he picked up from his
wants to confirm the priests C A R D I N A L C L A U D I O of liking to be a priest. “Parents should a priest. Parents who pray make the appeal clan. Like a little investment on a trade, the
of the Church. Their presence HUMMES accompany the formative journey with prayer, of Jesus their very own: “I have revealed priest brings with him the reverence, the
in large numbers in St. Peter’s Archbishop Emeritus of São respect, the good example of the domestic your name to those whom you took from the compassion, the honesty he learned to live
Square will be a proactive and Paulo virtues and spiritual and material help, world to give me. They were yours, and you with among his parents and siblings.
responsible way for priests to Prefect of the Congregation for especially in difficult moments.” (PDV, 68) gave them to me, and they have kept your Parents and family elders “should
show themselves ready and the Clergy No one can sufficiently value the example word. Now at last they have recognized that accompany the formative journey with
unintimidated for the service of Rome, 12th April 2010 of prayer in the lives of parents. From the all you have given me comes from you, for I Parents / B2
B2 Updates CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 11
May 24 - June 6, 2010
of Minors by Clerics
this mean that blue vestments may now be used for feasts of
the Blessed Virgin Mary?—C.J., Anaheim, California
www.kenraggio.com
also extended to countries once ruled by the Spanish crown.
Apart from these exceptions blue may not be used as a
liturgical color, not even on major Marian feasts.
With respect to the blue stole in Belgium, I am unaware if
this country retains the privilege, although it is possible as
Flanders was once ruled by Philip II of Spain.
Since blue vestments are uncommon, even when they are
permitted, it is possible that a parish has only one set. In this
case I would say that it is possible for the deacon to don only
white vestments. The situation is analogous to cases where
only the principal concelebrant wears vestments of the color
of the feast or season, while the others don white stoles and
chasubles.
All that we have said refers exclusively to the Latin rite. Blue
By Fr. Jaime B. Achacoso,J.C.D. the first steps after receipt of an allegation In most instances, unless the allegation
vestments are quite common on Marian feasts in some Eastern of the commission of an ecclesiastical crime proves manifestly false, it must be reported
Churches, especially those of the Byzantine tradition. are usually taken by the local bishop. If to the Congregation. The Essential Norms
OF late the Catholic Church, and the priest against whom an allegation is require a bishop to report all cases to the CDF
especially Pope Benedict XVI, has brought is a member of a religious order, his once he has sufficient evidence that the sexual
come under bitter criticism by the superior might takes the first steps instead. abuse of a minor may have occurred.
Any allegation that has the semblance of The CDF then reviews the material and
other news source. Anything and without their knowledge much sources. The saying that first
everything wherefore written less their consent: impression lasts, also applies
below can only be considered to Churchmen in relation to
either as a futile if not a dangerous 1. Reluctant Sources: their media encounters. This
advisory to the poor souls in These are Churchmen who as a is why, it is also probable that
the media profession who are matter of principle and practice, when reluctant to face media
given the dreaded assignment are not only media shy but at from the start, as such they
of covering the Church beat—or times also altogether hesitant to remain as a matter of course.
getting “Church News”. For one talk to media people. While it can But then as above indicated, media people concerned have inside pieces of information of Churchmen:
thing, the “Church” to these days be legitimately presumed that their “conversion” is not a moral come to trust one another which as a rule is more interesting 1. Thou shall somehow be
still remains a big unknown— they are by and large intelligent impossibility. particularly in the following and intriguing. The purveyors appeasing and pleasing to
although the institution is as in addition to being somehow ways: One, they play their of these “confidential” stuff them.
old as the calendar. This is why informed about earthly matters 2. Amenable Sources: respective roles well. Two, come under the phrase “reliable 2. Thou shall try to win their
there seem to be no “news”— such as socio-political issues These are Churchmen who they understand one another sources”—and they usually are. trust and appreciation.
nothing new at all—therein or and the like, for one reason or are by and large receptive well. Three, they are not only It is the joy of media practitioners 3. Thou shall ask them the right
thereabout. another, they are simply not of interviews—for different duly knowledgeable but also to hear one “official” source and questions at the right time.
Taking wherefore the big risk comfortable being media sources. reasons: They feel some self- dependable as far as their as many “reliable” sources as 4. Thou shall exert effort
of being ostracized for life by my This rather personal disposition confidence, know certain respective task is concerned. possible. Oh, how good and to understand their Church
peers, I dare to accomplish this can be the product of one or relevant matters and appreciate rewarded they feel! language.
hazardous “Advisory” by firstly more unpleasant media related the significance of media work. 3. Official Sources: 5. Thou shall seek clarifications
attempting to divide Churchmen factors. They have good experience with These are Churchmen who are Submissions for their vague answers.
into three main categories in In other words, theirs could kind and understanding media well versed with the workings With neither fear nor favor, 6. Thou shall not insist when
conjunction with media. By way have been a bad experience with practitioners. They are at ease of media, who are capable the following generic advisory you feel they want to keep
of conclusion, certain intrepid media people: They were either with people in media to the media sources, and who are submissions are hereby recklessly quiet.
advisory submissions are made. misunderstood or misquoted extent that they become friends. wherefore given the task of forwarded—certainly not for 7. Thou shall not trap or entrap
Even before the further treatment (“napahamak”). They probably They are understood by reporters officially facing media people Churchmen who are over and them to tell you what you want
of this little paper as below met somehow impolite reporters and journalist—and vice versa. in the name of the Church, an above mundane concerns like to hear.
fearlessly done, a disclaimer or the like (“nainis”). They The bottom line is that they Episcopal Conference or an mediaandwhereforepreoccupied Amen.
appears to be in order: could have been caught unaware occasionally enjoy the company Arch/Diocese. Needless to say with heavenly matters such
Only the media people who and wherefore unprepared for of one another. however, media professionals as dogmatic issues—but for (This article appeared at Witness:
take this “Advisory” seriously, an interview (“nabigla”). They F or s uch a n a cce p t a b l e are not that keen in “official” pitiful journalists and reporters The Varsitarian Handbook on
are considered solely responsible might have been prevailed on to and beneficial relationship pronouncements, statements unfortunately told to cover the Catholic Journalism & Religion
and accountable for so doing. speak although much reluctant to somehow last when still and lines. What they precisely unexciting and thus dreadful if Reporting, launched April 22,
This disclaimer is definite and to do so and thus gave a poor relevant, the key factor is trust, want to know more are the not dead Church beat by seeking 2010 at the University of Santo
defined. impression of themselves in viz., the Churchmen and the unofficial, unauthorized or the thoughts, hearing the words Tomas)
Priests / B3
Unfortunately the reality set before married sisters who, together with their To say that priests are priests of hometown and I was fortunate to have from the Diocese of Borongan and my
our eyes is less kind. More often we husbands, take the responsibility of the people is to say with PCP II that been granted my wish. I wanted to former spiritual director at SJN why he
focus on unfaithful priests, erring evangelization seriously. They inspire priests come from their community remind myself and the people that this left the diocese. He said: “I was looking
priests, abusive priests and rant me to also take up my priestly part in the and are sent to serve their community. is where I came from and this is where I for security because I was afraid of
against them in both public and private mission of evangelization as seriously. For me this is a truth that grew in me choose to eventually serve God’s People. ending up the way the older priests in
conversations. I remember someone Michael Jackson once has song entitled slowly and sometimes painfully. I spent Sometimes we hear of priests who leave the diocese ended up, being cared for by
saying, “We complain when priests ‘Man in the Mirror’ at which he said my seminary formation as a college us for Manila or America or other places their own families and sometimes left to
womanize, homosexualize, abuse the words: “I’m starting with the man seminarian in Sariaya, Quezon and abroad where they choose to minister. I themselves with little means of support.”
sexually, financially or administratively. in the mirror (himself). I’m asking him Lipa City, Batangas, and my theology suggest that we not judge them because, I felt sad hearing it because in many ways
And this is only right. But have we to change his ways…” Both priests and formation at the UST Central Seminary in the first place, as I earlier pointed out, it is still true. Our diocese doesn’t have
forgotten that this only reflects the laity should do likewise, that is, look in Manila. In some ways I felt my this turnabout is a reflection of what’s enough resources to provide security
reality among lay people: couples at the mirror of our lives and say to preparation for the priestly life and happening to us and our people, that is, to our priests. But I remember another
who are unfaithful to one another, ourselves, “Change your ways by more ministry was like a banana tree that of how so many of our people migrate to priest who was asked to stay in America
homosexualize, abuse sexually, seriously and faithfully following Jesus initially sprouted in Eastern Samar, other shores to look for a better life. Of and enjoy priestly ministry there. He
financially and administratively?” Christ whoever you are and whatever was uprooted to Luzon and now was course, it’s particularly painful to think said, “No, I’m only here for a time. I’m
Rather than endlessly engage in you do or say…” being transplanted back home through that priests who purportedly should going back home to my diocese, that
the blame game, we should all take 3. Summoned From the People in my ordination to the diaconate and be living by the gospel more closely is, the Diocese of Borongan, in Eastern
up the challenge of mutual modeling Order to Serve the People/ Challenge: later to the presbyterate. I decided succumb to this weakness and trend. Samar, Philippines.” The man who asked
of discipleship. For example, I have Incarnational Ministry to have those ordinations in my own I remember asking a priest originally Priests / B7
Statements
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 11
May 24 - June 6, 2010
B5
proclaiming the Word of God, faith enables This exigency World Youth Days, which for
communicating his forgiveness one to read should be very 25 years have produced rich
and reconciliation with Him, reality in a new present in the apostolic fruits among young
calling to prayer and offering and profound educational people. Among these also is the
as nourishment the Lord’s Body way and to itineraries social and political commitment,
and Blood. It is from this mystery transform it; of ecclesial a commitment based not on
of communion that the faithful that Christian communities ideologies or selfish interests, but
draw the profound energy to hope extends the limited horizon of new ways of development at of truth and of the good of and it requires new ways of on the choice to serve man and
be witnesses of Christ in all the of man and points him to the the service of every man and of the family, solidarity with accom-paniment and support the common good, in the light
concretion and density of their true loftiness of his being, all men. the needy and the necessary on the part of pastors. The of the Gospel.
lives, in all their activities and to God; that charity in truth It is of the competence of search for the common good. membership of Christians in Dear friends, while I invoke
environments. is the most effective force to the faithful also to participate Christians do not seek political associations of the faithful, in from the Lord abundant fruits
The theme of your Assembly: change the world; that the actively in political life, in a way or cultural hegemony, but, ecclesial movements and new for the works of this assembly
“Witnesses of Christ in the Gospel is guarantee of liberty that is always consistent with wherever they are committed, communities can be a good school and for your daily activity, I
Political Community,” is of and message of liberation; that the teachings of the Church, they are moved by the certainty for these disciples and witnesses, entrust each one of you, your
particular importance. The the fundamental principles sharing well-founded reasons that Christ is the corner stone of supported by the charismatic, families and communities to
technical formation of politicians of the Social Doctrine of the and great ideals in the democratic every human construction (cf. community, educational and the intercession of the Blessed
certainly does not enter the Church, such as the dignity of dialectic and in the search for Congregation for the Doctrine missionary richness proper to Virgin Mary, Star of the New
missionoftheChurch.Infact,there the human person, subsidiarity ample consensus with all those of the Faith, Doctrinal Note these realities. Evangelization, and I impart
are several institutions with this and solidarity, are very timely concerned with the defense of on Some Questions Related to It is an exacting challenge. to you my heartfelt apostolic
objective. However, her mission and of value for the promotion life and liberty, the protection the Involvement and Behavior The times we are living in place blessing.
last 02 May.
First of all, I want to apologize to you all for having given
the wrong impression that the Archbishop of Manila was
against People Power, and therefore not in consonance with
the stand of CBCP.
The Context. In that interview a question was asked by
someone stating that a candidate said that if he loses the
election, there will be People Power. It was to that statement
that I immediately objected. There are logically many legitimate
reasons for losing. Had the question said that if the candidate
Dear brothers and sisters, the total gift that he makes of himself, and a process of reunification of the divided and lost because there was cheating, mass disenfranchisement,
In the solemn celebration of Pentecost we thus his prayer becomes, so to speak, the very dispersed parts of the human family; persons, violence, threat, etc., my answer would be very different; and
are invited to profess our faith in the presence seal of his self-giving for love of the Father often reduced to individuals in competition we could assure all that the Church, you and I, will be there to
and in the action of the Holy Spirit and to and humanity: Invocation and donation of or in conflict with each other, reached by support the struggle and correct the injustice. But unfortunately
invoke his outpouring upon us, upon the the Spirit meet, they interpenetrate, they the Spirit of Christ, open themselves to the and to my fault, “all hell got loose”, when I used the words,
Church and upon the whole world. Let us become one reality. “And I will pray to the experience of communion, can involve them “irresponsible and crazy” referring to the statement, not to
make our own, and with special intensity, Father and he will give you another Paraclete to such an extent as to make of them a new the People Power, given those conditions, mentioned above.
the Church’s invocation: “Veni, Sancte who will remain with you forever.” In reality, organism, a new subject: the Church. This is I finally regretted the use of the words.
Spiritus!” Jesus’ prayer—that of the Last Supper and the the effect of God’s work: unity; thus unity is But the truth of the matter remains, that we do not have
It is such a simple and immediate prayer on the cross—is a single prayer that the sign of recognition, the “business card” those critical situations yet, above all, we still have to prepare
invocation, but also extraordinarily profound, continues even in heaven, where Christ sits of the Church in the course of her universal the people to go to the polls on election Day, 10 May 2010.
which came first of all from the heart of at the right hand of the Father. Jesus, in fact, history. From the very beginning, from the In the Archdiocese of Manila we have sent three pastoral
Christ. The Spirit, in fact, is the gift that Jesus always lives his priesthood of intercession on day of Pentecost, she speaks all languages. instructions (March 14, 21 and April 28) instructing the people
asked and continually asks of his Father for behalf of the people of God and humanity The universal Church precedes the particular as to how to prepare for the election and to offer prayers
his friends; the first and principal gift that and so prays for all of us, asking the Father Churches, and the latter must always conform before and during the election; talks were given to both priests
he obtained for us through his Resurrection for the gift of the Holy Spirit. to the former according to a criterion of unity and laity, to catechists, parish workers, recruiting PPCRV
and Ascension into heaven. The account of Pentecost in the Acts of and universality. The Church never remains volunteers, etc.. All these are done precisely to ensure a peaceful
Today’s Gospel passage, which has the the Apostles—we listened to it in the first a prisoner within political, racial and cultural and honest Election. Doing all these, we pray and hope, there
Last Supper as its context, speaks to us of reading (Acts 2:1-11)—presents the “new confines; she cannot be confused with states will not be a need for mass action. With the help of God, this
this prayer of Christ. The Lord Jesus said course” of the work that God began with not with federations of states, because her is our response-ability: doing the present now!
to his disciples: “If you love me, follow my Christ’s resurrection, a work that involves unity is of a different type and aspires to Thank you for the kind understanding, and together, let us
commandments; and I will pray to the Father man, history and the cosmos. The Son of transcend every human frontier. pray for a peaceful, honest and credible Election.
and he will give you another Paraclete who God, dead and risen and returned to the From this, dear brothers, there derives
will remain with you forever” (John 14:15- Father, now breathes with untold energy the a practical criterion of discernment In the Lord and His Mother,
16). divine breath upon humanity, the Holy Spirit. for Christian life: When a person or a
Here the praying heart of Jesus is revealed And what does this new and powerful self- community, limits itself to its own way of +Gaudencio B. Cardinal Rosales
to us, his filial and fraternal heart. This prayer communication of God produce? Where there thinking and acting, it is a sign that it has Archbishop of Manila
reaches its apex and its fulfillment on the are divisions and estrangement he creates distanced itself from the Holy Spirit. The May 5, 2010
cross, where Christ’s invocation is one with unity and understanding. The Spirit triggers A Flame / B7
Ref lections
CBCP Monitor
B6 Vol. 14 No. 11
May 24 - June 6, 2010
reach out to others, especially the bread. The wording matches hungry; otherwise, the liturgy
the poor and the needy, in loving almost verbatim with that in will be reduced to a ritual that
service. Luke’s account of the institution is divorced from life. For this
Today’s Gospel on the miracle (Luke 22:19). The sequence of reason, it is not enough to receive
of the loaves can enlighten us the verbs “having taken”, “he communion without mortal sin;
on this aspect. To begin with, blessed”, “he broke”, “he gave” it is equally important that the
the account of the feeding of immediately recalls the Eucharist. reception leads to the sharing of
the five thousand (Luke 9:11- Moreover, the sequence could be resources with the hungry and
17) is the only miracle story of compared with the meal scene those in need. Second, this also
Jesus’ Galilean ministry that is that concludes the encounter with means that satisfying the hunger
recounted in all the four Gospels the Risen Lord at Emmaus which of the community members is not
© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media
(John 6:1-15; Mark 6:30-44; is doubtless Eucharistic (Luke in itself a Christian ministry. Even
Matt 14:13-21). It is obviously 24:29-31:35). This implies that for Communists, who do not believe
a symbolic miracle. With his Luke the meaning of the Eucharist in God, still less in Jesus, feed the
inauguration of the Kingdom is to be seen in the feeding hungry. Rather, action on behalf
of God, Jesus now provides a of the five thousand. Equally of the hungry, the poor and the
foretaste of the Old Testament important, one should not fail to disadvantaged must be motivated
promises about God feeding point out that the blessing and The Eucharist / B7
ENCOUNTERS
Work: A stairway to heaven
THERE are many stories about St. Joseph, chapel. As their eyes adjusted to the dimly that has also contributed to the belief that
the foster-father of Jesus and the husband lighted place, they all marveled as they this was a miracle attributed to St. Joseph:
of Mary, but there are none so simple and beheld a wonderful wooden spiral staircase the staircase has exactly 33 steps, as though
beautiful like the one that happened in the from the ground to the choir loft. They intentionally build to symbolize our Lord’s
city of Santa Fé, New Mexico, in the United
States.
In 1873, a chapel called Loretto was
searched for the carpenter everywhere, but
he was nowhere to be found. He had left as
mysteriously as he arrived, and without even
age.
***
Empowerment of the Laity
constructed. When it was finished, the asking for his pay. Whether the staircase was indeed THIS growing phenomenon of the Laity’s
nuns discovered one particular flaw in the To this day, the staircase built nearly constructed by St. Joseph or not, the very
structure. It had a choir loft but had no 140 years ago, continues to attract about handiwork conveys a number of priceless empowerment came as fruit of Vatican II Council
staircase leading to it. They consulted the 250 thousand visitors a year. Moreover, lessons about human work: 1962-1965. We began to see the sprouting of the
constructors on how this could be remedied. architects, engineers and even expert 1) That work can and is a very wonderful basic ecclesial communities where the laity was
Due to the chapel’s architecture they were carpenters continue to be baffled by the means to help us get closer to God when we given more active voice and participation in
informed that it would next to impossible following things: offer it to Him and to serve others. liturgy and the proclamation of the Lord Jesus
to build a staircase to the loft. • Who was this skilled carpenter; 2) This is possible if it is done with an upright
Left with no other solution, they turned to • No nails or glue were used to put the intention. This in turn is demonstrated when Christ, the Risen Lord and Savior. It could be a
St. Joseph. They prayed for nine days asking staircase together; one doesn’t seek his own glory in work normal evolution of what is really innate in the
him for a solution. On the last day a man • It cannot be explained how a spiral whether he is successful, or saddened when initiating sacrament of baptism when through
arrived and offered to build the staircase for staircase stands without a central support; things turn out bad even though one has tried this very sacrament we partake of Jesus’ role
them. He had only two conditions: that he • They discovered that the type of wood his very best. as priest, prophet and king. “Go into the whole
was not to be disturbed or interrupted while used didn’t exist in the entire region. 3) Work can also connect us and those
he worked, and that his meals be set outside The Church has not formally declared we work with to God, especially when
world and preach the gospel to every creature”
the chapel’s entrance. anything regarding this event. Yet, the nuns we use it to serve them cheerfully and (Mk. 16:15).
The stranger began building the staircase believe that it was St. Joseph who helped sincerely. The recent canonical process for the beatification
alone. The nuns were a bit struck because them with this very complicated structural 4) Work is a means to identify ourselves of John Henry Cardinal Newman (1801-1890) of
unlike other carpenters, this one did not need of their chapel. What could have led with our Lord –growing in virtue– as we England only shows the timeliness of the move
make a din out of his work. Instead, they them to conclude this? realize how our Lord spent thirty years of
heard only soft poundings and sawing from First, the manner of the stranger’s coming his own earthly existence in a “hidden”
for increased involvement of the laity, always
the chapel. They prepared as best as possible and going is very much like the St. Joseph way, doing God’s will, serving Mary and within the bounds of legitimate discipline allowed
the man’s meals and admired how intensely who is described in the Gospels as someone Joseph. by Church Canon Law. Cardinal Newman was
he worked by staying up till the late hours who played a silent, simple and effective role. May we begin and end our daily tasks— espousing such idea much ahead of his time.
of the evening. Second, he worked without calling men’s both small and big—by always entrusting The treatises of the Apostle Paul, that the Church
One day, they woke up and realized that attention but offered everything for God. ourselves to St. Joseph’s example. May each is one body of Christ clearly confirms how much
something was different. The sounds of Third, the work was well done: it required step taken patiently and cheerfully along
pounding and sawing had stopped. Unable great skills to carry out such a feat without the path of our daily work, lead us closer we need to listen to our lay brothers and sisters
to contain their curiosity, they entered the nails and a central support. Finally, a detail to Heaven. in Christ for the sake of greater harmony and
progress in the Church. “Just as a human body –
so it is with Christ. In the one Spirit we were all
Bo Sanchez baptized, Jews as well as Greeks, slaves as well
SOULFOOD
as citizens, and one Spirit was given to us all to
drink” (cf. 1 Cor. 12:13).
The Church too recognizes what we call
Make God your home magisterium ordinarium, i.e. the daily usual
uniform teachings of the Catholic Church, is
protected from error by God’s ever abiding Spirit.
You will therefore see from historicity that the
present fundamental teachings of the Catholic
I’VE been traveling too much, Only here. and little by little, my soul gets island of the Philippines. faith are basically the same as those from the
I sometimes wake up in the And many people complain love-trained for Heaven. I’d escape the heat, the smog, very beginning of Christianity. This is the fruit of
morning wondering what city of its absurd, insane, foolish And when I walk through the madness...
I’m in. Am I in Davao? Or traffic jam. It’s phenomenal Megamall2, and see the But deep in my heart, I believe
the combined evangelizing work of both clergy/
Bacolod? Or Toronto? Or LA? how we cause them, I think it’ll crowd that rivals the sands of God wants me here. religious and lay people, and there are prominent
Or Jakarta? Or Cebu? become one of our major tourist Pinatubo—it becomes the perfect In Manila. saints in all categories and groupings of society.
Everything is a giant blur. attractions. place for earnest intercession. I This is my mission place. Today too we find zealous and fervent Christians
But the moment I step outside But I call it sweet traffic. This walk around, praying for that And my home is where God in different social sectors. True indeed: “the spirit
the sunny day, and inhale monstrosity causes me to do an happy couple eating ice cream, is.
the heavy, poisonous, potent, extra fifteen decades of the rosary that crying child on her mother’s And He’s here.
blows wherever it pleases” (Jn. 3:8).
mutant, radioactive, genetically- in the car. Cool, hmm? breast, that bored saleslady, that I feel Him in every breath I In the Church, as the one body of Christ, each
altering, tuberculosis-causing, While doing so, I try to avoid punkish kid... take. (Cough.) one has a role to play. Hence, we understand
cancer-inducing fumes of the a mad rush of death-machines I pray for hundreds of people Listen. Anyplace can be your why St. Paul commented “It makes me happy to
air... swerving left and right beside me that day. home. It’s not the location. Or suffer for you, as I am suffering now, and in my
Ahhh... (Cough.) (I think they were called public Suddenly, God becomes very the ambiance. Or the scenery. It’s
own body to do what I can to make up all that
Instantly, I know I’m back in buses decades ago). I say a prayer close to me. where God is calling you, pure
Manila. for the crazy drivers, “Father If given a choice, I can decide to and simple. has still to be undergone by Christ for the sake
This is my city. forgive them, for they do not live somewhere else—tomorrow Do you feel Him where you of his body, the Church” (Col. 1:24).
Where else are you forced to know what they are doing...” My if need be. I can escape it all and are?
trust God every time you inhale? patience is tested and stretched, move to a tiny hamlet in a remote If not, you’re not yet home.
Social Concerns
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 11
May 24 - June 6, 2010
B7
Helping a victim of child abuse
By Fr. Shay Cullen
LAST week, a mother came to the Preda shelter asking help and
protection for her two little girls, one 8 and the other 4, both
sexually-abused by their own father. Most child sexual abuse
are done by relatives, sad to say, and covered up by those in
authority who are bound to report it and help the victims. The
mother reported that the government social worker did nothing
to help her. It was a cover-up, one of many we struggle with
daily. Whatever wrong was done by the church authorities in the
past, hopefully they and all follow strict reporting procedures
now with dire consequence for those who fail to follow them.
Dealing with the past is a challenge of the present. Defenders of
human rights and helpers of abused children have to fight the
crime and the denial on many fronts. But readers ought to know
there are hundreds of thousands in the church doing this and
have always done it. That work never made the headlines.
The ongoing reports and exposés on with the poor, who work to make this
child abuse by clergy and religious is a more just and loving world? The basis
an occasion for deep examination of of Christian faith is to carry on that
conscience by all in the church, clergy mission, carry on trying, and fight the
and laity and in civil society as well. humanly impossible fight. It’s time for
It’s an opportunity for serious change, all of us to make a serious examination
renewal, repentance and change of of conscience and not only hold others
mind and heart. It’s a call for all who accountable for inaction but ourselves
claim to be Christians to return to the too. What have we done or failed to
message and practice of Jesus Christ. do?
Many have strayed from that mission One question we can ask ourselves
and have forgotten what it is all about. is have we, bishops, priests, religious,
Others may be church-goers but it’s and laity heard or knew about such an
not what Jesus asked us to do, there act of child abuse and failed to help the
www.about.com
is a lot more, as St. James says in the victim, tried to stop the abuse and bring
New Testament, “faith without action the abuser to accountability? The first
is useless”. The Eucharist is where we thing we have to do is help the victim
get inspiration and strength to continue who has been hurt and is suffering from
and celebrate the group action for powerlessness, is ashamed, threatened uncle, grandfather or even a brother or such crimes and ignore them. They people you trust who can help. But
justice. and afraid to report about it. Many can a workmate abusing young children too are part of the crime and the sin doing nothing is no option at all. If you
How many of us, who call ourselves be driven to suicide because there was and do not act. They don’t want to of omission. Silence gives consent to still can’t think of what you should do,
a decent human being, or Christian no one to help. I am not writing about get involved. But they should; it’s a abuse. write to me and action will be taken
or Catholic, actually live a life that in sexual abuse by clergy alone, but by crime and must be reported. Even the There is much we can do to help without delay. Abused children must
some way directly or indirectly imitates laity too. mother of the child victim sides with victims. First, accept the moral duty never be made wait for help. Email:
the mission, teaching and action of In my daily work, there are many the abusive father. Sometimes social to act, defend, help and never ignore preda@info.com.ph or send mail to Preda
Jesus? How many of us are indirectly incidents of family members, relatives workers and community leaders, a victim of abuse. You can write or Foundation, P.O. Box 68, Olongapo City
or directly in contact or in solidarity or neighbors who know about a father, police and prosecutors know about call the authorities, the media, or the 2200, Philippines.
Priests / B3
him was a fellow priest, a fellow born in the likeness of men”. I want to raise them up to the like that of Jesus, that is, taking certainly said to one and this he brings the presence of Christ
Filipino working in America, was St. John the evangelist puts it a sphere of salvation that Jesus the up everything except SIN. I means for all: “SIN NO MORE the Head to his people again.
baffled. “Why would you still little more theologically: “In the Word brings the whole world know that other priests might (Jn 8:11).” This is at the heart of For that to happen the priest
want to go back?” He answered, beginning was the Word, and which definitely and absolutely not share my view that buying the gospel message that we hear must, like the Master himself,
“I came from that diocese and I the Word was with God and the includes us. So when I see how and selling votes is sinful. I re-echoed in the public ministry allow himself to be sown on
was ordained for that diocese. Word was God…And the Word family-oriented and community- anchor my definition of sin in of Jesus. “The time of fulfillment the ground of his ministry, die
Isn’t our priesthood also like a was made flesh and dwelt among oriented we are as a people, I need the simple catechetical teaching has come. The Kingdom of God is to himself so that Jesus Christ
marriage in the sense that we are us” (Jn 1:1, 14). Jesus the Son of to enhance its positive lights but of what is moral as anything that near at hand. Repent and believe the Priest may truly live in him.
married to our diocese?” God was the Word who was when I also notice how easily leads us to God and the immoral in the good news” (Mk 1:14-15). A popular song some decades
This consciousness has its made flesh, that is, he took up our culture’s malleability can as anything that leads us away If the Word of God made flesh ago expresses in part what I’m
corresponding challenge: everything human that is in us, be turned into an instrument to from him. Insofar as buying and that is Jesus is to be incarnated saying here:
INCARNATIONAL MINISTRY. EXCEPT SIN (Heb 4:15). Taking buy and sell votes or go the way selling votes violates the freedom more and more in Eastern Samar, “When the night has been too
To understand this we must up the challenge of incarnational of patronage politics, when we of suffrage and the purposes then we must completely take lonely and the road has been
look to Jesus, the Word, who ministry in Eastern Samar means Eastern Samarnons easily give of public or private money the up everything that makes up too long
was the first to do incarnational taking up Eastern Samar’s up moral principles due to the act does not lead us to God but who we are as a people but must And you think that love is only
ministry. According to St. Paul conditions and circumstances, lure of money not only in politics away from him. When I proclaim reject whatever form sin takes for the lucky and the strong
in his letter to the Philippians culture, language but also, like but also in our other ways of the Word of God I must allow in what we are and do as a local Just remember in the winter,
(2:5-11): “Though he was in the that of Jesus, EXCEPT SIN. I doing a living such that we say it to address that and all other Church. far beneath the bitter snows,
form of God, he did not deem must be rooted in the conditions, ‘yes’ to destructive logging and circumstances and conditions of The ministerial priest who Lies the seed that, with
equality of God to be grasped at; culture and realities of Eastern mining, you and I don’t have to the Eastern Samar reality. That is is configured to Christ the the suns love, in the spring
rather he emptied himself and Samar not because I want to be follow suit. Why? Because my incarnational ministry. Jesus did Head is like a seed whose full becomes
took the form of a slave being suffused in them but because incarnational ministry must be not condemn the sinner. But he flowering is when he effectively THE ROSE.”
A Flame / B5
path of Christians and of the particular Apostles offers us another very concrete faithful of different communities, carried destroy. And nevertheless it causes a always subject to human weakness. We
Churches must always confront itself indication. The universality of the this divine flame to the far corners of the transformation, and it must for this must know how to recognize that losing
with the path of the one and Catholic Church is expressed by the list of peoples earth; in this way they opened a path for reason consume something in man, the something, indeed, losing ourselves for
Church, and harmonize with it. according to the ancient tradition: “We humanity, a luminous path, and they waste that corrupts him and hinders his the true God, the God of love and of life,
This does not mean that the unity are Parthians, Medes, Elamites …,” etc. worked with God, who wants to renew relations with God and neighbor. is in reality gaining ourselves, finding
created by the Holy Spirit is a kind One may note that St. Luke goes beyond the face of the earth with his fire. How This effect of the divine fire, however, ourselves more fully. Whoever entrusts
of homogenization. On the contrary, the number 12, which always expresses different this fire is from that of wars frightens us, we are afraid of being himself to Jesus already experiences in
that is rather the model of Babel, that a universality. He looks beyond the and bombs! How different is the fire of “burned,” we prefer to stay just as we this life peace and joy of heart, which
is, the imposition of a culture of unity horizons of Asia and northwest Africa, Christ, spread by the Church, compared are. This is because our life is often the world cannot give, and it cannot
that we could call “technological.” The and adds three other elements: the with those lit by the dictators of every formed according to the logic of having, even take it away once God has given
Bible, in fact, tells us (cf. Genesis 11:1-9) “Romans,” that is, the western world; epoch, of last century too, who leave a of possessing and not the logic of self- it to us.
that in Babel everyone spoke the same the “Jews and proselytes,” encompass scorched earth behind them. The fire of giving. Many people believe in God and So it is worthwhile to let ourselves be
language. At Pentecost, however, the in a new way the unity between Israel God, the fire of the Holy Spirit, is that admire the person of Jesus Christ, but touched by the fire of the Holy Spirit! The
Apostles speak different languages in and the world; and finally “Cretans and of the bush that burned without being when they are asked to lose something suffering that it causes us is necessary
such a way that everyone understands Arabs,” who represent the West and the consumed (cf. Exodus 3:2). It is a flame of themselves, then they retreat, they for our transformation. It is the reality
the message in his own tongue. The East, islands and land. This opening that burns but does not destroy, that, are afraid of the demands of faith. of the cross: It is not for nothing that in
unity of the Spirit is manifested in the of horizons subsequently confirms the in burning, brings forth the better and There is the fear of giving up something the language of Jesus “fire” is above all
plurality of understanding. The Church newness of Christ in the human space, truer part of man, as in a fusion it makes nice to which we are attached; the a representation of the cross, without
is one and multiple by her nature, in the history of the nations: The Holy his interior form emerge, his vocation to fear that following Christ deprives which Christianity does not exist.
destined as she is to live among all Spirit involves men and peoples and, truth and to love. us of freedom, of certain experiences, Thus enlightened and comforted by
nations, all peoples, and in the most through them, it overcomes walls and A Father of the Church, Origen, of a part of ourselves. On one hand, these words of life, let us lift up our
diverse social contexts. She responds to barriers. in one of his homilies on Jeremiah, we want to be with Jesus, follow him invocation: Come, Holy Spirit! Enkindle
her vocation to be a sign and instrument At Pentecost the Holy Spirit manifests reports a saying attributed to Jesus, not closely, and, on the other hand, we are in us the fire of your love! We know that
of unity of the human race (cf. “Lumen himself as fire. His flame descended contained in the sacred Scriptures but afraid of the consequences that this this is a bold prayer, with which we ask
Gentium,” 1) only if she remains free upon the assembled disciples, it was perhaps authentic, which he puts thus: brings with it. to be touched by the flame of God; but
from every state and every particular enkindled in them and gave them the “Whoever is near me, is near the fire” Dear brothers and sisters, we always we know above all that this flame—and
culture. Always and in every place new ardor of God. In this way what Jesus (“Homilies on Jeremiah,” L. I [III]). In need to hear the Lord Jesus tell us what only it—has the power to save us. We do
the Church must truly be catholic and had previously said was realized: “I have Christ, in fact, there is the fullness of he often repeated to his friends: “Be not not want, in defending our life, to lose
universal, the house of all in which each come to cast fire upon the earth, and how God, who in the Bible is compared to afraid.” Like Simon Peter and the others the eternal life that God wants to give
one can find a place. I long that it already be burning!” (Luke fire. We just observed that the flame we must allow his presence and his us. We need the fire of the Holy Spirit,
The account of the Acts of the 12:49). The Apostles, together with the of the Holy Spirit burns but does not grace to transform our heart, which is because only Love redeems. Amen.
The Eucharist / B6
Abhorrent Poor
Disturbing Below average
Acceptable Average
Wholesome Above average
Exemplary E
xcellent
Freddy Kruger returns from screaming teenagers and the Title: A Nightmare on Elm
1984’s very first A Nightmare dull horror of each sequence Street
on Elm Street series but this will not make this remake Cast: Jackie Earle Haley, Kyle
time with less humor and a work. It is tired and lacks the Gallner, Rooney Mara,
darker past. The movie follows scream factor expected of this Katie Cassidey
the original plot with a few new genre. Robert Englund’s Freddy Director: Samuel Bayer
twists as Nancy (Rooney Mara) was psychotically funny and Producers: Michael Bay, An-
drew Form, Bradley Fuller
and her friend Quintin (Kyle creepy. Englund’s one liners and Screenwriters: Wesley Strick,
Gallner) discover that they, and perpetual smirk were almost Eric Heisserer
the rest of their murdered friends, adorable but Haley’s meaner and Music: Steve Jablonsky
shared the same pre-school more evil version turns Freddy Editor: Glen Scantlebury
where Freddy Kruger (Jackie into another ordinary serial killer. Genre: Horror/ Thriller/ Fan-
Earle Haley) was the gardener. Freddy is evil, whether dead or tasy
Apparently, Freddy is accused of alive, in dreams or reality. At Cinematography: Jeff Cutter
molesting or hurting the children first, one will be led to believe Distributor: New Line Cinema
and the parents decided to put that he is avenging his own fate Location: USA
Running Time: 95 mins.
justice into their hands. And in the hands of the pre-school
without the benefit of a trial or parents. But later on, as the entire Technical Assessment:
strong evidence, the parents burn plot unfolds, we are introduced Moral Assessment: ½
Freddy alive. Meanwhile, Nancy to an evil creature that hurts and CINEMA Rating: For viewers
and Quintin, in the attempt to kills just because he can. 14 and above
stop Freddy’s revenge, try to pull The movie is too violent and takes off his necklace and puts
him out of their dreams so they gory for young audiences; it also it around Nancy’s neck as she
can kill him in real time. deals indirectly, yet despicably, sets out to confront the villain,
The concept of a nightmare with child abuse and molestation. telling her “You’ve got to believe
crossing reality delivered shivers The victims and the people in something.” Although it
when audience first watched the who punished the wrongdoer resembles a cross, and his words
1984 original movie. However, are hunted and killed at the hint at faith in superhuman
this remake pales in comparison end. And more disturbingly, protection, it may be perceived
to Wes Craven’s original movie. nothing can stop Freddy’s killing as superstition instead of genuine
The powerlessness in one’s sleep rampage. Theme, language faith in the divine since nowhere
and the horror that one can be and treatment may cause even else in the movie is God shown as
hurt or killed in the embrace adults’ stomachs to turn. The a loving or even a saving God. In
of dreams were the reasons the film targets teenagers and young fact, the movie doesn’t even allude
franchise worked for some time. adults—people who are usually to God anywhere and its open
However, the powerlessness susceptible to misleading beliefs. ended conclusion even implies
of the performances from the There’s a scene where Quintin the undying power of evil.
Our Basic
Commitments
(Part 2 of the talk delivered during the April 20, 2010 Mission faithfully by those who came before us. Of course, it can be said These are all big ideas and heavy concepts but in actual life, it is
Core Teaching Night) that those who did write this did not, in the final analysis, practice in the simplest things that these commitments are seen in us. Our
it themselves, but that is not the point. The point is, if we are to be leaders’ training modules emphasize and re-emphasize these over
AS Mission Core members, as elders in this community Couples for united, if we are to be effective shepherds, we need to be humble and over again, ad nauseam. One of the simplest things by which
Christ, what are our basic commitments? enough to be the sheep. we proclaim our basic commitments and our being CFC is the use
This is easy enough to answer. Our CFC covenant card practi- Third is utmost loyalty. Again, note that we speak not just of of our CFC sticker. That is our identity. That is who we are, and we
cally says it all and covers everyone, from the oldest member in loyalty but of UTMOST loyalty. All of us in the Mission Core are should all be proud to announce it to the world. There shouldn’t
the adult ministries to the youngest member in Kids for Christ. expected to be loyal to the community and the values it stands for. even be any discussion about whether or not our vehicles should
But as Mission Core members, and this means the hundreds of We are not being asked to be loyal to persons. It is only by our be- have the CFC sticker on it.
thousands of chapter heads, cluster heads, sector heads, area ing loyal, and to the utmost degree of loyalty, that community can We talk of our basic commitments at this time because we need to
heads, area council members, sector governance teams, regional prosper. It is only through our loyalty to community that we can review them and to be completely accepting of the fact that each and
heads, country heads and coordinators, family ministries coor- protect and preserve it. everyone of us must have these ingrained in our minds and hearts.
dinators, we have additional commitments. We all know this Fourth is total dedication to service in CFC. Again, this is in the Why? Because we have to be ready for the big and wonderful things
because we would not become Mission Core members without superlative. We don’t speak only of dedication but of TOTAL dedica- that the Lord wants us to do. The Lord must be able to see in our
going through the Mission Core Retreat where these commitments tion to service in CFC. We do not mean to imply any rigidity in our hearts and see that we are indeed ready for these bigger things.
are spelled out. service since we have to make allowances for certain circumstances On a final note, there are two things that we have to do if we are
We need to review those commitments. Because of the length of and for certain nuances in our relationships and our service. What truly to proclaim our witnessing and our identity as one united
our service to community, many of us might have forgotten these. is important to realize is that we have to fully understand that as community.
But these commitments should be ingrained in our hearts because Mission Core members, much more is asked of us in terms of our The first is our dream to have a home of our own. We are all
we, the Mission Core, are the backbone of the community. Without service and our attitudes. praying doubly hard for the realization of this dream. We have
a backbone, there would be no body. We would collapse. If the The fifth is the exemplary witness of our daily life. This means targeted 2011 but the Lord may just surprise us. If we are all
backbone is weak, we would collapse as well because it is the back- what we do, how we are perceived as we go about our daily routine generous, if we all move forward in trying to fulfill this dream,
bone that makes us erect, that makes us stand tall and strong. What – in our offices, in the practice of our profession, in our business, in we might just be able to achieve this dream much earlier than
osteoporosis does is to weaken the backbone. We pray that here in our neighborhoods. We must witness to the Lord AT ALL TIMES. we planned. Let us make this dream a collective dream, a com-
CFC, we would not suffer osteoporosis of the spirit that would cause We must witness to His righteousness, and it must be an exemplary munity aspiration so that we can all have a home we can indeed
our backbone to weaken and collapse. kind of witnessing. call our own.
What are our five basic commitments as Mission Core? We speak here of the ideal but this ideal is exactly what we are The second is the legacy we leave to the next generation of CFC.
First, we have to have utmost faithfulness to our life in mission. aiming for. Over time, we forget this. Through the years, we forget By our effective witnessing, by our unity, by our proud proclama-
If we recall the talks in the Mission Core Retreat, what is empha- that we are truly the backbone of CFC. How we perform and how tion of our being FOR Christ, we allow the youth, our children,
sized is not just faithfulness to our life and mission but UTMOST we act and react – these are what our members see. If they do not to likewise be proud of our CFC identity. We want to leave them
faithfulness. This implies a higher degree of faithfulness, a greater see in us faithfulness to our life in mission, submission to our elders, a community that they can really be proud of. We want to leave
adherence to our commitments, loyalty to the brethren and to Couples for Christ as a community, them the desire to carry on and work harder to bring more and
Second, we have to practice submission to our elders. We, and total dedication to service and exemplary witness in our daily life, more people closer to the Lord, to bring more and more families
I mean the International Council or the Pastoral Formation Office, we cannot expect them to do what we tell them they must do. We who are strong in the Lord, more and more members who have
did not write this into our community’s values. This has always would lose any moral authority to ask that they espouse these basic a heart for the poor, more and more people who love and who
been part of our community life, something that was practiced commitments. follow Jesus.
Called to Greater
Leadership
COMMUNITIES and organizations rise or fall on Greek philosopher-teacher Solon expressed the In brief, the key steps in the strategy of men- that the emphasis focused on the following: the
the successes or failures of those who lead them. very same message through his timeless advice toring are as follows: need to focus on Christ and not just on the team,
It would be good for us to look at the greatest ‘Know Thyself.’ to maintain our spiritual moorings regardless of
leader who ever walked the earth - Jesus Himself. It is not necessary for anyone to have a posi- 1. SIMPLIFY- Jesus did not seek to confuse and the circumstances and to recognize that there is
His leadership recruitment, development and tion or be appointed to one to be regarded as a clutter the minds of his disciples, considering only ONE community despite recent events that
succession program is unparalleled. ‘leader’ considering that the best definition of a their background and lack of preparation. By sought to divide and create disunity.
It would be good to learn the lessons on lead- leader is to be a person of influence. This goes furnishing simple truths, the disciples were
ership as developed and demonstrated by Jesus beyond titles. Titles and positions may look able to grasp them easily, practice them and RELEARNING THE OBVIOUS
when he empowered his disciples and apostles good on one’s resume but in the real world, then pass on the experience to others. While the teambuilding activities were re- en-
and equipped them for the proclamation of the what the person stands for and what value he 2. PROVIDE MAPS- By showing them the big ergizing, they would have achieved only a partial
Good News of Salvation. He focused on his adds to the group or the organization is what picture message, the disciples attained clar- success if being energized was the only objec-
small band and daily ensured their develop- really matters. ity of the vision and the mission. Jesus was tive. The most important achievement was the
ment, emphasizing at every turn the centrality Of all the challenges that confront leaders, the able to show the disciples where they were opportunity to distill the lessons and principles
of prayers and time of solitude with God. In the first and the most difficult to achieve is to lead and where He wanted them to be. He like- learned, namely:
second stage of the leadership plan of Jesus, he one’s self. However, learning to lead one’s self wise alerted them to the pitfalls and dangers
commissioned seventy-two of his disciples and is the gateway towards achievement and suc- they must avoid. 1. The concept of ONE CFC, ONE MISSION, ONE
sent them, two by two, to bring his message to cess and cannot be avoided, circumvented or 3. ENABLE - Jesus did not only walk the GLOBAL ARMY – the community must and
far-off places. Eventually these seventy-two underemphasized. talk but went far beyond by showing and will protect that oneness and mission focus,
formed the backbone of the great army who Undoubtedly everyone desires to be success- teaching them the way and enabling them while always looking at our Lord as the reason
were readied for the Great Commission to bring ful. It is therefore necessary to heed the advice to perform the work and miracles they had for our being.
the Good News to the ends of the earth, armed of John Maxwell in terms of defining personal witnessed. He gave them the powerful mes- 2. The community can only be as strong as the
only with this basic instruction - “Go therefore success. There are three important things to sage to live by: “I am the Way, the Truth and weakest link- there must a continuous emphasis
and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing consider: 1. Knowing your purpose in life (refer the Life.”(John 14:6). on our core strengths of prayer and scripture life
in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of to Rick Warren’s book, Purpose-Driven Life), 4. GIVE ROOTS AND WINGS- The parable that is mutually reinforced by the relationships
the Holy Spirit.” (Matt.28:18-19). 2. Growing to your maximum potential, and 3. of the Sower (Luke 8) gave the disciples a and trust fostered and built in the households.
By the time of the Great Commission, the Sowing seeds that benefit others. handle on how and why it was important 3. The community can only move as fast as its
disciples were deemed prepared for the work The best way to start on this road is to dis- to be rooted deeply in Christ. In the all- slowest member- Leaders must always be on
ahead, and they were explicitly tasked to go cover your strengths and commit to grow in important Vine and the Branches discourse the alert in monitoring the growth and maturity
and proclaim the Good News. God’s plan was those areas. The first two items are achieved by (John 15), Jesus emphasized that if they abide of each and every member in his area of service
for them to continue the work that Jesus started, working within the so-called zones of strength and remain in him, not only will they be and responsibility.
far and beyond the Resurrection and Ascension. while the third emphasizes adding value to and fruitful and be called his true disciples but 4. Work as though everything depends on us, but
Jesus ensured full preparation, empowerment giving of self to others- i.e. the essence of servant they will also merit all that God had prom- pray as though everything depends on God-
and equipping through the Holy Spirit. leadership. ised. To emphasize that commitment, Jesus each of us must be aware of our core strength
Future generations of Church leaders followed used the word “Abide” (remain) ten times! as evangelizers and live out the core values of
the pattern of the Lord in terms of calling and JESUS SHOWED THE WAY Once the apostles had become deeply rooted, the community. Faith and action are mission-
preparing disciples. In whatever period, culture Rather frequently, people hesitate to ‘step up He allowed them to have the confidence to critical ingredients.
or peoples, the Gospel was proclaimed through to the plate’ as leaders. Perhaps it is the fear of soar by performing the very works that He 5. Leading followers, following leaders - Leaders
the process that owed its origin, continuity and failure, feeling of unworthiness or reluctance to showed them. must accept the reality that our people do not
connectivity to Jesus and the earliest disciples. serve (because it is disruptive of one’s routine) care how much we know, until they know how
All Church leaders would do well not only to that threatens their comfort zones. The inertia FOLLOWING THE LEAD much we care. Leaders and followers need to
remember but also to live out the clear and com- of coasting along is too ingrained to overcome Every leader of the community who ‘stepped heed the lesson- that no one becomes a good
pelling vision communicated by the Lord: “Do easily. into the plate’ and responded to the call are am- leader until they become good followers first
not be afraid. From now on you will catch men.” In the case of the first disciples, Jesus trans- ply rewarded with the satisfaction of knowing and foremost.
It took no more than eleven easily understood formed their outlook by making them under- that they make an impact in the lives of the men 6. Authority is not defined by title or position - In
words to outline the mission. stand, appreciate and live out the Beatitudes. and women they serve. Their influence can be the exercises, the top leaders readily gave way
Effective training starts with changing the gleaned not only from their level of service but to other leaders when they saw that the mission
LEADERS IN CONTEMPORARY SETTING people inside out by working on their attitude also by the span of service life that they have can be achieved only with a positive and healthy
From its earliest days, CFC has emphasized and perspective. invested. However, it is likewise crucial that outlook on leadership. Leaders earn respect
training and formation for all the members. It is worth remembering what our Lord did leaders are not only reminded, and therefore when they are seen as decisive and firm but also
From the ranks, easily one or two out of every next. His recruitment process was progressive reinforced, but also to continually experience thorough and honest.
five couples or members are raised as leaders and deliberate starting with the inner group of affirmation and being recharged. It is easy to 7. Leaders will make mistakes but they cannot af-
who continue and expand the mission of being four, then later, the twelve apostles. The next be ‘drained’ of spiritual energy if prayers and ford not to act - Leaders are called to stand up
“families in the Holy Spirit renewing the face circle of empowerment was the call and equip- scriptures are neglected; however, it is also just to certain issues and must act in the best interest
of the earth.” ping of the seventy two who rejoiced when they as easy to be drained of physical energy and go of the community.
The major responsibility of top leadership is reported back to Him on the success of their on ‘low battery’ status by overemphasis on work 8. One united leadership - What started as the
to define reality in its commitment to put flesh mission. That kind of affirmation paved the next and outcomes. There is therefore much need to theme for the weekend activity became an
to the organization’s vision and mission. Max course of growth. pay attention to this and constantly be on the actual reinforced reality to all the participants.
DePree, a top leadership author and expert, The simplicity and elegance of the strategy lookout for telltale effects of ‘mission fatigue.’ Nothing will ever be achieved, whether by small
writes that the course of any organization cannot of Jesus is impressive. He gave due attention to CFC has embraced the theme of FULLNESS groups or by large communities, if people do
just be written as a promulgation and expected to the task at hand by inspiring and mentoring the IN CHRIST for this year. It is mandatory that not rally behind their leaders, or if the leaders
continue unless there are leaders who shepherd first band of disciples. Majority of His time was the top leadership of the community set the themselves do not act as one.
LAYOUT BY LAURENCE JOHN R. MORALES
its journey. The mere presence of leaders is no spent with the twelve, seeking to understand tone for the message. The conferences and
guaranty for success and continuity unless they their strengths and weaknesses and harnessing activities that have been conducted revolve CONCLUSION
define and confront realities and face the chal- their new found passion and vibrancy. around this overarching theme. It was in this A community or organization can only be as
lenges that come in all sizes and forms. By way Within a generation, the disciples evolved frame that the Philippine Mission, together strong as the quality of the leadership at the helm.
of a simple reinforcement, one cannot define from unprepared and unsure laborers to bold with the Council brothers, joined hands in Leaders are tasked to provide direction and navi-
what one cannot see. spiritual leaders who carried the Gospel as com- strengthening the message ONE CFC, ONE gation for the ship of the organization, regardless
missioned. The key step used in preparing the MISSION, ONE GLOBAL ARMY via the team of the circumstances. The test of their mettle is
TO THINE OWN SELF BE TRUE evangelizers was and is the time tested process building weekend (April 16 to 18) in Talisay, when they lead through stormy and darkened
The quote above is taken from Shakespeare’s of MENTORING, where Jesus spent the most Negros Occidental. seas. Their job is not done until they bring the ship
“Hamlet” and in many ways captures the es- time and energy with less people and in effect The proceedings were no different from simi- safely to port and have multiplied themselves by
sence of moving forward into being leaders. The magnified their effectiveness and impact. lar organizational team building efforts except recruiting and empowering more leaders.
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 11
May 24 - June 6, 2010
Ugnayan C3
In Defense of Creation
By Arnel Santos can receive its deepest grounding only at a religious level.”
Fr. Ben cited the Common Declaration of Pope John Paul II and Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew
IN protecting the environment and defending creation, Couples for Christ must take to heart a new 1 on June 2, 2002 that, “[a] solution at the economic level can be found only if we undergo, in the most
acronym - CFC, which means, Communion, Fortitude and Creativity. radical way, an inner change of heart, which can lead to a change in
This was the message of Fr. Ben Beltran, SVD, in a lecture to the Mis- lifestyle and a change of unsustainable patterns of consumption and
sion Core Group of CFC, on May 18, 2010, at the Xavier Gymnasium, production. A genuine conversion in Christ will enable us to change
Greenhills, San Juan, entitled “In Defense of Creation from the Christian the way we think and act.”
Perspective.”
Creativity
Communion Fr. Ben introduced an “ecological theology of Redemption for today”
Fr. Ben explained that “we have to regain the reverence for all life referred to as “Deifying Transformation in Christ through the Spirit.”
forms” and rediscover “our rootedness in the earth.” Otherwise, human This theory is an alternative to traditional theories based on satisfaction,
race faces extinction. substitutionary atonement, and sacrifice.
“The solution is transformation of our basic values,” Fr. Ben em- According to Fr. Ben, the new theory shows “how what the Father
phasized. “There must be a new appreciation of Earth’s beauty and does in Christ involves not only human beings, but the whole creation
hospitality to life, and an understanding of the fragility and delicate through the Spirit.” The “whole creation” includes human beings, the
balance of life on earth.” material universe and the biological world.
“Human beings”, according to Fr. Ben, “as part of the universe, are Fr, Ben highlighted that “The environment must be seen as God’s gift
invited into an interpersonal relationship with the Creator, Redeemer, to all people, and the use we make of it entails a shared responsibility
Sanctifier.” In the context of the work for the environment, this is what for all humanity, especially the poor and future generations (intergen-
communion means. erational solidarity).”
Thus, “Christians are called to humbly take their stance alongside
Fortitude others. It is called to witness to the God of Jesus Christ, and to this God’s
Citing Pope John Paul II, Fr. Ben emphasized that “respect for the love for all Earth’s creatures.” In this process, the Church itself is called
integrity of creation is a moral issue.” There must likewise be, “ecologi- to ecological conversion.
cal conversion.” After the lecture, CFC Chairman Joe Tale led the Mission Core Group
Thus, religious faith continues to provide fundamental meaning in the in a reflection session and exhorted them to pursue CFC’s work for the
work for the environment. Many believe that “ecological commitment protection and defense of the environment.
Aiming for Greater Leadership the leaders, said that communities and organizations rise
By Layle Ancheta
or fall on the qualities of their leadership.
LAST May 14-16, 2010, the CFC Mindanao Leaders conducted Joe explained that “A community or organization can only
their Inter-Regional Area Council Conference and Team Building be strong as the quality of leadership at the helm. When
Activity at Waig Crystal Spring Resort, North Poblacion, Maramag, the leaders are focused on Jesus, the True North of our
Bukidnon. The 3-day leadership activity was graced by the pres- lives, they cannot go astray. Leaders are tasked to provide
ence of CFC Executive Director Joe Yamamoto. As is usual with direction and navigation for the ship of the organization,
CFC activities, Holy Mass was the culminating activity. It was regardless of the circumstances. The test of their mettle is
concelebrated by Bishop Honesto Pacana, SJ, DD and Fr. Darwin when they lead through stormy and darkened seas. Their
Alcontin (CFC Bukidnon Spiritual Adviser). job is not done until they bring the ship safely to port and
The emphasis of the whole gathering was on the need for leaders have multiplied themselves by recruiting and empowering
to focus on Christ and in following his examples of true leader- more leaders”, he said.
ship, mentoring and discipleship. Joe Yamamoto, in his input to He also mentioned how future generations of Church
leaders should follow the pattern of the Lord in terms
of calling and preparing disciples and to live out the
clear and compelling vision communicated by the Lord: “Do When there was a need for action, He acted right away. Jesus was
not be afraid. From now on you will catch men.’ able to think clearly without being distracted by emotions of pity
Bishop Pacana delivered a talk on Christian Disciple- or panic from the people around Him. He was able to clearly focus
ship, the highlight of the conference. In his presentation, he on the Father’s will and act on how God wanted it.
explained the three leadership styles of Jesus that leaders Finally, Bishop Pacana reminded all the leaders present in the
today must follow and embrace which are as follows: 1.) Self gathering about the significance of having a personal relationship
Mastery, 2.) Action, and 3.) Relationship to the Father. with God, just like Jesus did. Bishop Pacana modeled the example
According to Bishop Pacana, self mastery means that of Jesus when he fed the hungry and calmed the waves during the
leaders must be able to achieve self-control in any given storm. Again, Jesus didn’t just wait. He acted.
situation. They must have discipline and must be willing to On the last day of the conference, in his homily, Bishop Pacana
deny oneself and deny one’s comfort for the sake of others. enjoined all the leaders of CFC Mindanao to look at Christ as the
Leaders must also be able to say no when they know it’s message and model of Hope. “God as God penetrates us, our deep-
against the Father’s Will. He likened this quality to Jesus, est realities. There can be no obstacle to Him. There is no reality
who withstood temptation in the desert. that cannot be covered by God”. He exhorted that nothing can
A leader of action, according to Bishop Pacana, is someone conquer us if we make Jesus the Lord of our lives. He reminded
who is able to think and act quickly given any situation. Lead- all leaders that the most important leadership quality they should
ers must be alert, be quick thinkers and quick decision makers possess is that of a heart and mind focused solely and whole-
in choosing actions to address any situation. Bishop Pacana heartedly on Christ.
modeled the example of Jesus when he fed the hungry and The team building activities fostered camaraderie among the
calmed the waves during the storm. Jesus didn’t just wait. leaders, as they worked through the exercises.