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•A3 World needs real

Christians in politics
•B1The Conclusion
of the
•C1 UGNAYAN
The News Supplement
of Couples for Christ
and society, says Pope Year for Priests

CBCP assures Aquino of Patronage politics derail


critical collaboration Arroyo’s economic programs
THE Catholic hierarchy on has assured a ‘criti- HAD it not been for patronage politics that
cal collaboration’ with the administration of characterized her presidency, the country could
presidential frontrunner Benigno Aquino III. have gained from the infrastructure and eco-
According to the head of the Catholic Bish- nomic programs initiated by President Gloria
ops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), the Macapagal-Arroyo, a Mindanao bishop said.
church would always support efforts to fight Cotabato Auxiliary Bishop Jose Colin Baga-
poverty and corruption. foro said Arroyo had “a clear 10-point agenda
Tandag Bishop Nereo Odchimar, CBCP presi- which guaranteed infrastructure and economic
dent, said the bishops will work closely with the programs” but patronage politics got in the
government in building a just society. way.
“We will collaborate in those things which are In an interview with Radio Veritas, the 56
good for the welfare of the people,” Odchimar year-old prelate said the Filipino custom of
Collaboration / A6
May 24 - June 6, 2010 Vol. 14 No. 11 Php 20.00 Politics / A6

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

Catholic Church not identified with any


political party, Vatican official states
IN his address to Pope Benedict XVI during the 24th full assembly of “Lay Christians involved in the public life should receive the tivity and a solid foundation of shared values, promoting above all
the Pontifical Council for the Laity, Cardinal Stanislaw Rylko, presi- necessary formation to be able to bear witness to their faith in Jesus the concept of a truly open secularism that is not hostile to God or
dent of the dicastery, said, “The Church does not identify herself with Christ with courageous coherence because it is by being faithful to fearful of allowing him to enter public life.”
any one political party or system,” but “she appreciates the work of themselves, to their own baptismal identity, that the can truly bring The task includes “defending the human person, his dignity, his
those who dedicate themselves to the service of the common good about a renewal in political life,” Cardinal Rylko said. transcendent vocation and his inalienable rights, rooted in the natural
and assume the weight of these responsibilities.” In commenting on the call of the Holy Father to reach out to the law and thus non-negotiable,” he stated.
Cardinal Rylko said the Church sees the lay faithful's involve- new generation of Catholic politicians, the cardinal said, “Today it At the conclusion of his remarks Cardinal Rylko announced that
ment in politics as “a noble vocation” that is “a great expression of is truly urgent that politics regain its own soul, thus recovering the the Congress of Lay Asian Catholics would take place August 31-
charity.” meaning of service to the common good, rebuilding a moral sensi- September 5. (CNA)

Aquino urged to pick a person of PPCRV declares RP


integrity as environment secretary elections ‘clean’ A CATHOLIC Church-backed poll watchdog said the Philippines’ first full auto-
ENVIRONMENTAL groups urged president-elect Beni- Roy Alvarez, president of Eco Waste Coalition, said the mated election was done squarely, despite some “discrepancies” in the results.
gno Aquino to appoint a new environment secretary of 10-point criteria meant “to help the incoming President find The Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) said they found
unquestionable integrity and who will put environmental and install [an able] leader who will genuinely champion some 29 discrepancies so far between the electronically transmitted data and the
protection as main agenda of government policy. environment protection and push for a truly sustainable election returns ERs.
The groups came up with a ten point criteria which they development agenda in words and deed." The Commission on Elections-accredited is currently conducting its manual
hoped Aquino will consider in his choice of a person to fill Congratulating the new president, the groups said they encoding of election returns to validate the automated results at the Pius XII
up the position. look forward to Aquino’s presidency hoping it will bring Center in Manila.
Kalookan Bishop Deogracias Iniguez has endorsed the about a “new era of transformational leadership and green Liberal Party (LP) bet Senator Benigno Aquino III, the apparent winner of the
criteria presented by the groups saying Aquino should pick governance.” May 10 presidential polls, continues to enjoy huge lead over his eight other op-
the ablest person who can lead the agency. Aquino during his campaign has committed to strictly ponents.
“We are optimistic that Noynoy will pick the best person enforced “the country’s environmental laws such as the In the vice presidential race, LP’s Sen. Manuel Roxas continue to fight tooth and
who can lead and shepherd the department towards the Clean Air Act and the Ecological Solid Waste Manage- nail over his rival Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay who continue to lead by around
path of environmental stewardship, renewal and justice to ment Act.” 800, 000 votes as of May 19.
serve the common good and not only the selfish interest of He also promised his government will put a stop in the But the opposition has alleged
a few,” Iñiguez said. Integrity / A6 fraud and demanded the poll
result be investigated.

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.cbcpnews.com www.cbcpmedia.com www.cbcpnews.com/podcast


World News
CBCP Monitor
A2 Vol. 14 No. 11
May 24 - June 6, 2010

Pope explains importance


of common good
Receives group that promotes Church’s social doctrine
VATICAN CITY, May 24, 2010—The common good is what gives meaning to progress, protecting “In a global society, made up
development from possible negative consequences, says Benedict XVI. of many peoples and various
The Pope affirmed this Saturday when he received members of the Centesimus Annus Pro Pontifice religions, the common good and
Foundation, which promotes the social doctrine of the Church. integral development is obtained
He explained that progress would be “limited to the sole production of material goods” if it were with the contribution of all,” he
not oriented toward the common good. affirmed.
“Progress and development are necessary,” the Holy Father affirmed, “but if they are not oriented And in this effort, the Holy
to the common good, they lead to the negative consequences of the prevalence of consumerism, waste, Father contended, religion is de-
poverty and excess.” cisive, “especially when it teaches
However, the Pontiff clarified that the common good is not a single goal, but rather a composite fraternity and peace, and when,
of many goods, material, cognitive, institutional, moral and spiritual, the latter two being of highest in a society marked by seculariza-
importance. tion, it instructs the faithful to give

© 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)

Pope points to music as harmony of East and West


VATICAN CITY, May 21, 2010—Benedict XVI warmly thanked Rus- Synergy well as between tradition and modernity."
sian Orthodox Patriarch Kirill for a concert celebrating the Pontiff's Drawing a deeper meaning from the concert, the Bishop of Rome Citing Pope John Paul II's appeal for Europe to breathe with
April birthday and anniversary of election. affirmed that in music there is already a certain fulfillment of the its "two lungs," the German Pontiff reflected that "contemporary
Beyond his words of gratitude to the Orthodox leader, the Holy "encounter, the dialogue, the synergy between East and West, as culture, particularly European culture, runs the risk of amnesia, of
Father used the occasion to promote harmony between East and forgetfulness and, therefore, of abandonment of the extraordinary
West, particularly in light of Europe's growing distance from its Russian Orthodox patrimony fostered and inspired by the Christian faith."
Patriarch Kirill
Christian roots. "The Christian roots of Europe, in fact, are constituted not only by
The concert Thursday featured some of the great works of 19th religious life and the testimony of so many generations of believers,
and 20th century Russian composers. It closed with "Song of the As- but also by the inestimable cultural and artistic patrimony, pride and
cension," a symphony composed by a leading prelate in the Russian precious resource of the peoples and countries in which the Christian
Orthodox Church: Archbishop Hilarion Alfeyev of Volokolamsk, faith, in its different manifestations, has dialogued with cultures and
chairman of the Department of External Affairs of the Moscow art, has animated and inspired them, fostering and promoting as
Patriarchate. never before the creativity of the human genius," he said.
The Pontiff reflected that the concert opened a window to the The Pope affirmed that these roots are still alive in East and West
"soul of the Russian people and with it the Christian faith, which and "must inspire a new humanism, a new season of authentic hu-
find an extraordinary expression precisely in the divine liturgy and man progress, to respond effectively to the numerous and at times
the liturgical singing that always accompanies it." crucial challenges that our Christian communities and our societies
Benedict XVI, himself an accomplished musician, noted the must face, beginning with secularization, which not only leads to
"profound original bond" between Russian music and liturgical doing without God and his plan, but which ends by denying human
singing. dignity itself, in a society regulated solely by egotistical interests."
"In the liturgy and from the liturgy is unleashed and begins to "Let us make Europe breathe with its two lungs again," the Pontiff
© www.rferl.org

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)

Belgian bishops apologize for treatment Bishops in England


of abuse cases, vow changes and Wales condemn
BRUSSELS, Belgium, May 20, 2010—The
Bishops of Belgium have apologized for ag-
gression against victims of sexual abuse and
else," they acknowledged that Church of-
ficials did not fully realize the "extent of
the child abuse tragedy and its tremendous
will still be open to us" and noted that this
"crisis" forces those with responsibility in
the Church to “face the problems, call them
abortion ads on TV
for the inadequate support they received. consequences. by their name, and address them with the LONDON, England, May 23, 2010—The Catholic Bishops’ Con-
In a pastoral letter, they pledge "concrete "With this silence, the reputation of the cooperation of competent persons." ference in England and Wales has condemned TV ads promot-
measures" to prevent further abuses. Church institution and of her ministers has The bishops pledged to take action to ing abortion services that recently aired throughout the United
The message, which was delivered by way been placed ahead of the dignity of young confront the situation through "concrete Kingdom, charging that the “exploitative promotion” of abortion
of a pastoral letter to the Belgian Church, victims," they stated. measures, with the support of Benedict XVI.” is not “in the interests of the health or psychological well-being
was released within weeks of the bishops' “We ask forgiveness of all abuse victims They also vowed to create more stringent of women.”
visit Vatican for their "ad Limina." One of for the aggression and for the inadequate entrance requirements for candidates to Marie Stopes International, a self-described non-profit orga-
the subjects the Belgian bishops discussed support they received. Likewise, we ask for the priesthood, to commit themselves to nization for sexual and reproductive health, will run TV ads for
with the Pope and Roman Curia officials was forgiveness both from the relatives of the vic- providing effective supervision and support abortion services throughout the U.K. as part of their “Are you
sexual abuse against minors. tims and from society for the consequences to pastoral workers and to draft a code of late?” campaign which is set to air until June 4.
In the letter to the Belgian faithful, the of such abuse," the letter said. ethics for those who work with children or “We hope the new ‘Are you late?’ campaign will encourage
bishops addressed the "serious damage" to "The abusers got a second chance, while vulnerable adults. people to talk about abortion more openly and honestly, and
the confidence between priests and the faith- the victims carried in their flesh the injuries The letter closes with a message of grati- empower women to make confident, informed choices about
ful which was caused by the "shockwave" of that cannot or can hardly heal," it said. "We tude for those who work within the Church their sexual health,” said Dana Hovig, CEO of Marie Stopes
Bishop Roger Joseph Vangheluwe's resigna- thank the victims who found the courage to for a "more humane and just world" and International on May 20.
tion on April 23 over his admission that he break through this wall of silence by telling a prayer that the Holy Spirit give them On Thursday, a spokesperson for the bishops condemned
sexually abused a boy. what happened to them." "enough wisdom and courage to build a the ads, stating that “services which offer or refer for abortion
Emphasizing that "the safety and protec- The Belgian Church leaders added that church that reflects the genuine love of God – whether commercial or not-for-profit organizations – should
tion of children takes priority over anything they hope that "the path of reconciliation to men." (CNA) not be allowed to advertise on broadcast media.”
“Abortion is not a consumer service,” the spokesperson added.
“To present it as such erodes respect for life and is highly mis-

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

World needs real Christians in


politics and society, says Pope
VATICAN CITY, May 21, 2010—Pope Benedict XVI addressed the role of the faithful in politics during The audience with the Pope took place with members of the council, led by its president Cardinal
an audience with members of the Pontifical Council for Laity on Friday. Not only are true Christian Stanislaw Rylko. They council is currently holding its 24th Plenary Assembly, which is focused on
politicians needed for true societal and political change, he said, but a greater need exists for the laity “Witnesses of Christ in the Political Community.”
to exercise their influence in the social and political realms. Developing on the theme of the three-day assembly, the Holy Father said that it’s in the hands of
the faithful to provide a concrete witness to the faith in the social, cultural and political spheres. They
must witness to the fact “that the faith enables them to read reality in a new and profound way, and
to transform it,” he said.
The lay faithful participating in political life must act “in a manner coherent with the teaching of the
Church,” said the Holy Father, as they bring solid reasoning and “great ideals” into the democratic
debate.
Their presence should be made known by their efforts to build a consensus among those who defend
life and freedom, protect truth and good in families, assist those in need and seek the common good,
the Pontiff explained.
It’s a “demanding challenge,” he noted, referring to the situation of present day democracy, which
is weakened by “the spread of a confused cultural relativism, and of a utilitarian and hedonistic indi-
vidualism” that “favors the dominance of strong powers.”
In light of this, “There is a need for authentically Christian politicians but, even more so, for lay faith-
ful who bear witness to Christ and the Gospel in the civil and political community.”
The Pope further explained that, although the “technical formation of politicians” is not part of the
Church’s mission, she reserves the right to “pass moral judgment in those matters which regard public
order when the fundamental rights of the person or the salvation of souls require it.”
He invited the action of all Christians to “recover and reinvigorate authentic political wisdom, to be
demanding in what concerns our own sphere of competency, to make discriminating use of scientific
research, and to face reality in all its aspects, going beyond any kind of ideological reductionism or
utopian dream.”
© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media

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)

Groups ask govt for quick probe of anti-mining advocates’ killings


MANILA, May 22, 2010—An environmental group called on the Cagayan (Famac) was gunned down last March 1 while on his way
government to speed up the investigation of the series of killings and home after delivering a lecture on mining impacts in Buguey.
© www.stjosephs-birtley.co.uk

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

Victims’ remains retrieved


and illegal fishing activities under the leadership of Buguey Mayor Arzadon, Conrado Buenaflor, Gensun Agustin, Pedrito Tabaco
Ignacio Taruc. He died in the hospital four days later. and Alfredo Rabit,” Garganera said.
Gensun Agustin, one of the leaders of the anti-mining civil society “We also ask government law enforcement authorities to imple-

from sunken vessel


group Alliance of Buguey Community Development Advocates (Al- ment stricter measures to keep the peace and order in the Cagayan,
bucoda) and member of the Federation of Anti-Mining Advocates in especially in Buguey,” he added. (CBCPNews)

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

Illustration by Bladimer Usi


EDITORIAL

The matter of truth


THE President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the
Philippines and Tandag Bishop Nereo Odchimar is right
when he dared whistleblowers to substantiate allegations of
election fraud with solid proof or else drop the claims.
Indeed, if there is solid evidence such allegations should be
taken seriously and duly investigated. Otherwise they may
be taken as fishing expeditions that can end up ruining the
very democratic process for which the polls are established
in the first place.
But so far, no substantial evidence has yet been presented
whether in the media or in the ongoing congressional
inquiries. All the allegations were mere rhetorics verging
on the hearsay and the speculative.
The sad part of the masked whistleblower is that he is
masked. The first requirement of credibility is identity.
Hiding one’s face to look like a marsupial is more
entertaining than credible that even demeans allegations
into mere conjectures and therefore half-truths—which by
any measure do not bear any truth at all.
Cowardice and truth do not go together. Which is why
failing to unmasked oneself for fear of losing one’s face
or favor is a betrayal of truth. But worse should be the lot
of a man who hides his face not because of cowardice but
because of grandiose and tactical political agenda to tip
the balance in a complex struggle for power.
But no matter what, truth will always be truth.

Oscar V. Cruz, DD
Renewal of Faith-Communities,
Civil Society, Political Leaders Clerical obligation
WE have to come together then as communities of faith, as
Views and Points
we your Bishops said back in 1986 after the Snap Elections “Clerics are bound always to do their utmost in fostering among However, nothing less than Church Law officially provides the
of that year, to “pray together, reason together, decide people, peace and harmony based on justice.” obligatory intervention of clerics in favor of the people in general
together, act together,” form groups of thinking and praying when justice premised on truth and productive of peace is at stake,
people—in our schools, seminaries, parishes, mandated IT is a given that as concretely provided by the Code of Canon Law, i.e., in danger of or actually being seriously violated and trampled
organizations, lay movements, social action groups, most Clerics—deacons, priest and bishops—have a pretty good number upon. The reason for this particular obligation of clerics is not difficult
especially in basic ecclesial communities which the Rural of obligations compared to their rather very few rights. It is for to decipher: falsity is the motor of injustice, and injustice is the pro-
this distinct reason that instead of the standard phrase “Rights and ducer of disharmony, disunity and dissent. The Social Doctrine of the
Congress we will be holding this year looks to as a crucial Obligations”, the said Code of laws for the Universal Church says it Church is all out against this inhumanity of man to his fellowmen.
instrument in the forbidding task of rural development. exactly in the reverse, viz., “The Obligations and Rights of Clerical” This is definitely not meant to say that the people as whole—who
(Book II, Chapter III). are the forefront victims of social injustice—may simply act as the
We zero in on what we say is the basic fault in our And during these troubled and troubling times in the country infamous “Three Monkeys” whereby each one of them “sees noth-
communities’ political and social life: the subordinating of when majority of the population is either but nominally or really ing, hears nothing, says nothing”. It is even said that in these times,
the common good to private good. We see how this flaw practicing “Christian”, it becomes not only relevant but also practical a fourth monkey even joined the triad. This one “does nothing”!
in our national character evinces itself in our community to know and understand not simply who but, specially so, what are Would that people assume their social responsibility as they should
life. We need to seek ways and mean of correcting it clerics for. Truth to say, deacons, priests and bishops are not merely and thereby enjoy the blessing of peace as the fruit of justice.
in whatever way we can—but always according to the meant to stay in their churches and remain in their convents—such People may not afford to forget that in a republican democracy
as in terms of baptizing infants and blessing the dead, celebrating like the Philippines, sovereignty resides in them—not on those few
principles of active-non violence—together, creatively and fiestas, holding novenas and conducting processions. The said in the present government who have assumed the roles of glorious
imaginatively, as we bishops exhorted in 1986. We have to agenda form an essential part of the ordained ministry. It remains masters with inglorious legacy. In such a pitiful situation, it is both
form ourselves into real communities of faith-discernment true nevertheless that the said clerical services—necessary and the right and duty of the Filipino people to stand up, speak and
and action. sublime as they are—remain comforting and comfortable. But said act. The Filipino Clergy then, though few in number, cannot be but
programs alone, keep clerics in the so called “Comfort Zone”. with the people.
We ask this of explicitly Church groups. But we will ask
it too of all citizens who have a concern for the nation’s Sr. Mary Pilar Verzosa, RGS
good, especially those who hold the reins of power, from
Malacañang on to Congress, provincial and municipal
Parents hurt too
governments, all the way down to barangay councils.
People in government—and as well as all other civic and Love Life
business groupings—can they too reflect together in all
manner of associations and look into themselves to see if, A FEW weeks ago, I wrote for this column only after an ultrasound and many labora- tell their parents. Since they were of legal
in all their actuations, the demands of the common good an article titled “Men Hurt Too”. I discussed tory tests that they finally decided they had age, I could not breach confidentiality and
are in fact captive to merely personal and selfish interests? how the men involved in the abortion of their to tell their parents. They did not have any just had to wait until the decision came
girlfriend, wife or casual sexual partner suf- cash to pay for all the tests and for hospital from them to finally contact their parents.
And if they are, can they rise up to the challenge and decide fer from “post-abortion symptoms” as much admission. Anton’s mother arrived first. She said she
themselves to contribute to the general effort? as the women do. I related the depths of the The boyfriend, Anton (not his real name), had the strangest feeling that things were
grief and guilt that one of my latest coun- had been updating me on the situation of not right—why it was Anton who had to
This must sound like a preposterous request, but we make it selee was experiencing, having brought his Nina (not her real name) ever since he came take Nina to the hospital and not her parents.
anyway for we believe that what it seeks is the critical need girlfriend to an abortionist and watching her to me for counseling two month ago. I had Anton could hardly talk because of fear. I
of the moment. Already it is being responded to here and writhe in pain, bleeding until the “blood and seen Nina only once and had even accom- took his mom aside and explained in detail
there by various concerned groups such as those that have tissue” got expelled from her body. panied her to our pro-life OB who gave her what had happened. Tears flowed. All she
been organized and trained to fight corruption. So we seek a Well, the bleeding had not stopped. The a pregnancy test. It was negative. It seemed could say to him was “Why did you not tell
wider response from all our faithful towards a more vigorous abortionist had told them that she would then that things were going to improve. She me earlier? Why did you not TRUST us?
take care of burying the “products of the had gone back to work but texted me to say We could have helped you. We all make
work for good governance and a more active promotion D&C (raspa)”. But three weeks after, she was how depressed and angry she felt towards mistakes. You will always remain our son,
of responsible citizenship in our society in the light of the still expelling “parts” which she has been Anton who insisted on the abortion. no matter what mistake you make”.
Gospel and the social teachings of the Church. washing and saving in a bottle. And three She sent me a text message—“I don’t Later that evening, when the ultrasound
months after, her bleeding was so severe that believe he truly loves me. He has refused report came in and the doctor explained
If in your minds, corruption—the worst offender against she collapsed in the bathroom of the office to take responsibility for the baby and has that the uterus had indeed been damaged
our common good—is rampant today, sparing no level of where she was employed. put my life in danger”. Days passed and by the abortion instruments and there was
social and political life, and most glaringly and reportedly Once more she called her boyfriend in neither of them had the chance to come for possibility of a hysterectomy (removal of
so in the various corridors of power, we have to confess desperation. There was no one else she follow-up counseling sessions until that fate- the uterus) as the only way to stop the
that corruption is in truth our greatest shame as a people. could turn to. Both of them had not told ful day when she bled profusely and had to bleeding, Nina then called her parents.
their parents of the abortion. The only thing be admitted in the hospital. They had many questions to ask. And
But if it goes on unhindered, it is because, as we have had they could do was to go to the emergency I postponed whatever I had to do for the foremost was why Nina did not call them
occasion to point out in the past, we all too often condone room of a government hospital. And it was day to be with them. I encouraged them to Love / A6
it as part of the perquisites of power and public office.
—CBCP Statement: “Reform Yourselves and Believe Fr. Melvin P. Castro
in the Gospel!” 2008
The fullness of life
www.cbcpmonitor.com
Speaking of Mary
cbcpmonitor@cbcpworld.net
AT the height of the debate on the Reproductive Health Bill, I met brace ourselves.
so many new friends and allies and met a good number of foes too. But our aim is not simply to weather the coming storm. As in any
I have to be honest that it was one of those times that I felt personal warfare, we have to be equipped, foreboding, insightful, clothed and
pain when you read in the blogs, and hear and see in the media armed. We do not have their material resources and vast network
so many detractors of the Church’s official teaching, and yes even of people. Ours is more of a guerilla warfare; never in the offensive,
among the members of the Church. holed-up in our trenches, protecting our bastions, defending our
Pedro C. Quitorio I would have chosen a more “quiet and tranquil life.” But then enclaves.
Editor-in-Chief again, when I see the countless faithful—lay, religious, and clergy For how long could we fend off the enemies? I honestly do not
alike—that are heroically defending the Family and Life, I feel a know. I share the optimism of Cardinal Rosales, I also share the
Pinky Barrientos, FSP Kris P. Bayos more nagging pain. I need to be a part of this warfare. And the militancy of Cardinal Sin. We have to have both. We cannot give-in
Associate Editor Feature Editor beauty of it all is that as I wage a personal warfare in my soul, you to discouragement but we should always be in the look-out.
just feel you’re part of this bigger, cosmic warfare; and God has St. Teresa of Jesus (of Avila, as she is better known) advises us
Melo M. Acuña Laarni Bergado actually already won this war. We are simply following through to be ever-protective of our interior castle. We have to fend off the
Managing Editor Marketing Supervisor His victory on the Cross. enemies while they are away from the walls of the castle. That is
We vividly recall how the Apostles were gathered at the Upper what we have to do.
Roy Q. Lagarde Ernani M. Ramos
News Editor Circulation Manager Room, waiting for the coming of the Paraclete. St. John describes That is why for the many that think the RH Bill is simply a
them to have been full of fear. Then came the Holy Spirit. He gave contraceptive-promotion bill. Better think again. It will be the
Laurence John R. Morales Marcelita Dominguez fortitude, wisdom, and strength. They spoke, they preached, they Trojan Horse in our national morality. From contraception to abor-
Layout Artist and Online Editor Comptroller performed miracles, and they even laid down their lives for Christ. tion. From reproductive health education to sexual concupiscence.
That is the Holy Spirit. That is the fullness of life. Not a life of comfort, From population management to total population control. We shall
The CBCP Monitor is published fortnightly by the CBCP Com- but a life spent for others, for the Kingdom of God! reap what we sow. Sow contraception and we shall be harvesting
munications Development Foundation, Inc., with editorial and Soon we shall be having a new set of national leaders. The hiber- abortion.
business offices at 470 Gen. Luna St., Intramuros, Manila.
P.O. Box 3601, 1076 MCPO. nating RH Bill would certainly be resurrected again, propelled by Giving the benefit of the doubt is one thing, complacency is an-
Editorial: (063) 404-2182. Business: (063)404-1612. the same people, support by the same foundations, the same NGOs, other. We cannot afford to be complacent at this time. I would not
ISSN 1908-2940 the same funding agencies. They would return with vengeance. wish to be a prophet of doom and gloom, for certainly our people
They were so close in passing it in the last Congress. We have to Mary / A6
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 11
May 24 - June 6, 2010
Opinion A5
Fr. Roy Cimagala Nicolo F. Bernardo
Ethics indispensable
Candidly Speaking in journalism Lifeguard
Sex education
I AM happy to note that a certain rise of inter- The current dynamic developments of in personal freedom, in respect of others’
est in ethics in journalism is taking place in information technology have not only in- freedom, and in the capacity for dialogue.”
many parts of the world today. I just hope creased the hunger for instant news. They This is a most tricky challenge. Ethics in
and pray that the same thing would also
happen here in our own country.
also have stirred the desire for more opin-
ion and thought pieces if only to give some
journalism cannot just rely purely on ethical
theories derived from philosophy, jurispru- from a pope
This surge of interest can be evidenced element of balance, fairness, resolution and dence and theology. These obviously are
DO celibates have a right to speak about sex? What most people
by the growth of schools adopting and de- answer to the open questions. indispensable, but it has to be crafted also
do not know is that the two enduring books on sexuality were
veloping this subject in their curricula. Also Journalism has to deliver facts and data from the very experiences of the practitioners
written by celibates. While the Hindus have their sacred Kama
conferences about this topic are spreading. with greater sensitivity to human needs themselves.
Sutra by Vatsyayana, Catholics have Love and Responsibility by
It seems more people are realizing how and dignity. It just cannot play around with These experiences ground the abstract
then Polish bishop Karol Wojtyla (later Pope John Paul II).
united ethics is in the search and presenta- them, easily falling into the manipulative ethical theories. They make ethics more
Many Catholics are already familiar with the book’s sequel—
tion of truth as is the case of the dynamic, hands of some users and readers’ biases. realistic, more practical, more immediately
John Paul’s Wednesday lectures on the Theology of the Body.
complex world of journalism. They now un- More than merely informing, journalism felt, and not just a set of rules and regulations
Yet nothing compares with his down-to-earth guide for couples
derstand more keenly that truth is not simply has to deliver the truth in charity. It has to or platitudes.
which caused a sensation back in the 60’s at the onset of the
a matter of showing facts. Other important realize that objective truth is not a frozen Nowadays, any effort to develop this eth-
sexual revolution. As the former pope’s biographers, Bernstein
considerations have to be made truth. It is a living truth to be dealt with ics in journalism has to contend with formi-
and Politi, in His Holiness notes, it was very unusual and un-
There’s the angle of context and perspec- accordingly. dable challenges. It has to examine the many
precedented (if not scandalous) for a bishop to speak in the book
tive that has to be factored in. The motivation In that recent media coverage about scan- ideological ethical doctrines to see where
on how couples could make natural family planning work and
and intention also have to be clarified. All dals in the Church involving a few clerics they are right, where they are wrong, where
the importance of mutual sexual climax. Naturally, the work
these already require ever deeper moorings in sexual abuse cases, the perception now is they can be helpful or dangerous.
invited suspicion and censorship.
and broader vision of things. that the accusations were made more to bash Among these ethical doctrines affecting
But much of Wojtyla’s information, as he explains in the text,
Many people now are aware that journal- the Pope in particular than to exact justice. the world of journalism today are: utilitarian-
came from the confessional. His discussions with his students,
ism cannot be stuck with the knee-jerk reac- How else can one explain the one-sided ism (the end justifies the means), positivism
some of them engaged and married, contributed to his opus
tions, shoehorned into catchy sound bytes, attacks on the Church on this issue when the (what is legal is ethical), emotivism (our
that was influential in Pope Paul VI’s encyclical Humane Vitae.
slogans and other forms of gimmickry and same thing happens even in far worse pro- feelings can tell us what is right and wrong),
The 20-years span toward the revised and translated edition of
sensationalism. portions in other sectors of society, and the or relativism (there are no absolutes in the
the book only tested the stories gathered by this prelate (The
More and more people are now convinced Church complainants are quiet about them? area of ethics).
translated version of which, published by Ignatius Press in 1981,
that while journalism is always on the heels of This is where ethics in journalism comes Lastly, any effort to develop ethics in jour-
I would cite verbatim).
events and has to report things quickly, nei- in. It precisely takes care of this delicate and nalism should realize that more than coming
Wojtyla was candid enough to say that the sexual urge is a
ther should it lose sight of the bigger picture complex aspect of journalism where the facts up with relevant principles and doctrine,
natural drive born in all human beings, “a vector of aspiration.”
and of the bigger if not the whole truth. and data are presented always in the context what it involves is the proper formation of
This urge meets freedom when man decides for himself what ac-
Some observers have termed this concern of justice and charity. the character of the persons involved.
tions to do out of his urges. So that while “man is not responsible
as complementing the fast news with slow Ethics does this, a Church official once Ethics cannot just be a classroom activity
for what happens to him in the sphere of sex since he is obvi-
news. That is to say, the initial, breaking said, “by encouraging everyone to be con- or an intellectual affair. It has to enter into
ously not the cause of it (but biology),” he says, “he is entirely
news should be followed by more in-depth scious of their dignity, to enter into the the spiritual life of the persons, since that is
responsible for what he does in this sphere.” (p. 47)
analyses and commentaries of the issues thoughts and feelings of others, to cultivate how genuine integrity, not its caricatures, is
Sensuality is not itself a sin, Wojtyla clears, since only that
involved. a sense of mutual responsibility and to grow formed and reinforced.
which derives from the will can be sin.
“There is difference between ‘not wanting’ and ‘not feeling,’
Fr. Carmelo O. Diola, SSL
God’s time
‘not experiencing.’”(p.162) Wojtyla acknowledges the biological
fact that “in any normal man the lust of the body has its own
dynamic, of which sensual reactions are a manifestation. …a

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

Bishops credit Arroyo for infrastructure


programs, urge Aquino to address corruption
DESPITE the failing grade given to the president by some Catho- corruption in the bureaucracy.
lic leaders, some bishops across the country believed the Arroyo
administration should be credited for its infrastructure programs,
particularly roads and bridges in rural areas.
Lingayen-Dagupan Archbishop Emeritus Oscar Cruz said incom-
ing president Benigno Aquino should be able to prosecute President
Arroyo, members of her official family and even people close to her
Next president should
fulfill campaign promise,
Interviewed separately by Catholic-run Radio Veritas, the prel- for graft and corruption.
ates said the road network constructed in the poorer areas through “The incoming chief executive should not only go after President
the Department of Public Works and Highways and the livelihood Arroyo and some members of her family but her cabinet members

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)

Police nab armed man in Bataan Cathedral compound


BALANGA, Bataan—Bataan police arrested a 34-year-old man
armed with an unlicensed .38 caliber revolver and several rounds
of ammunition who was wandering within Bataan Cathedral
Compound in Balanga City. The suspect, Armando Lucena who
is local resident of Balanga, was acting suspiciously prompting
the authorities to inspect his belt bag. (Jason de Asis)
the truth’
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY—As the local press community in here
marks the 28th Press Freedom Week, a canon lawyer of the Arch-
This city started celebrating its own Press Freedom Week in
1982 when then Mayor Aquilino Pimentel Jr. issued Executive
diocese of Cagayan de Oro urged media persons to always seek and Order 241 declaring every last week of May as Press Freedom
CDO PCOS log receipts highly suspicious — PPCRV
peddle the truth and so serve God and mankind. Week. That year’s celebration put this city into the annals of
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY—The Parish Pastoral Council for Monsignor Rey Monsanto, archdiocesan consultor and president journalism as the first city in the entire Philippines to celebrate
Responsible Voting coordinator for Mindanao said some of the of the Canon Law Society of the Philippines (CLSP), said media Press Freedom Week.
Precinct Count Optical Scan log receipts inventoried the day persons are very influential and thus must be responsible in using In 2008, the Provincial Board of Misamis Oriental passed a reso-
after country’s first automated polls are highly suspicious. Such this influence for the good of future generations. lution declaring the last week of May as Provincial Press Freedom
conclusion is based from the election paraphernalia found in a “Journalism is very important and reporters are very important Week.
junkshop within Cagayan de Oro City. (Bong D. Fabe) because you record the present. But as you record the present you Led by the Cagayan de Oro Press Club (COPC), this year
record them for the future because that is precisely what it is, you celebration carries the theme “Truth ushers in hope towards
record them for the future,” he said in his homily during a concel- fulfillment.”
Filipino migrants in New Zealand want economic policy
ebrated Mass held at the Press Freedom Monument in front of the “If you want fulfillment in your work, if you want fulfillment for
overhaul Provincial Capital on May 24. society, if you want fulfillment for humanity, then actively seek the
ANTIPOLO CITY—OFWs in New Zealand asked president- truth whatever it may cost,”
apparent Benigno Aquino III for an economic overhaul in Monsanto urged the media.
order to revive the dying economy of the country. The OFWs The liturgical activity was
expressed that Aquino will be able to address the economic also held in honor of fallen
crisis the country is facing due to years of corruption in the journalists who died in the
government. (Noel Sales Barcelona) fulfillment of this sacred duty
of journalists.
Foreign observers denounce poll cheating in Lanao del “We hope that they did not
Sur die in vain,” Monsanto said,
LANAO DEL SUR—Foreign observers denounced the open and adding: “We know that they
massive attempts to cheat in different towns here. Observers did not die in vain if they died
encountered voters under 18, vote buying, frontal campaigning for the truth, if they died for
during the elections day itself, pre-filled up ballots and viola- what is right.”
tions of election laws and procedures and non-functioning PCOS According to Monsanto, a
machines which led to declaration of a failure of elections in confessed journalist by heart,
several towns. (Bong D. Fabe) the primary duty of journalists
is to “peddle the truth.”
Police arrest protesting farmers “When we work for the truth,
CALAMBA CITY—Hundreds of protesting farmers were cruelly we are actually serving God
dispersed by local police last May 21 at Hacienda Yulo in Sitio because God is truth. When we
Buntog, Canlubang, Calamba City. A number of farmers were peddle the truth, we are actu-
reportedly injured during the dispersal, several men, women ally following Jesus, praising
and children were handcuffed and forcibly taken by the police. God in society. In short, we are
© Bong Fabe

(Noel Sales Barcelona) glorifying God,” he stressed.


“For [a] journalist, there is
Probe of beaten pinoy in Riyadh jail sought no other way to give that glory
ANTIPOLO CITY—Migrante Middle East urged the govern- Monsignor Rey Monsanto emphasizes something in his homily during the Eucharistic Celebration on May 24 at the Press to God but to tell the truth,” he
ment to investigate the alleged heavy beating of Filipino prison- Freedom Monument to officially start Press Freedom Week in Cagayan de Oro City. added. (Bong D. Fabe)
ers confined in death row in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Migrante-

Priests see ‘bright’ future


ME regional coordinator John Leonard Monterona asked the
government to provide a Shariah lawyer for Joselito Zapanta,
who was accused of killing his Sudanese landlord. (Noel Sales
Barcelona)

in Mindanao peace process


Incoming gov’t urged to legislate salary increase
ANTIPOLO CITY—Kilusang Mayo Uno, a militant labor cen-
ter, urges the incoming administration to pass a law regarding
125php wage increase of the workers. Such increase would be a
relief for almost a decade of hunger and poverty, said KMU na-
tional chair Elmer “Ka Bong” Labog. (Noel Sales Barcelona) CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY—The formal “We take the joining of the European international community to the continuity
entry of the European Union (EU) to the Union to the International Monitoring Team and conclusion of the peace process between

Aurora EcoZone dispute heats up


formal peace negotiations in Mindanao and as a landmark development. The leadership the GRP and MILF through peaceful and ne-
the apparent victory of presidential frontrun- of the MILF and the Bangsamoro people wel- gotiated political settlement,” said Mohagher
ner Benigno Aquino III are developments come this development with the belief that it Iqbal, MILF chief peace negotiator.
MARIA AURORA, Aurora— The dispute over business groups and “made in heaven,” a Mindanawon peace will hasten the resolution of the Bangsamoro Oblate priest Vasquez and Jesuit priest
the clergy of the Infanta prelature is heating up over a diminutive worker said. issue through negotiation and diplomacy as Alejo also welcomed EU’s decision.
object of contention: the building of the Aurora Pacific Economic In an exchange of text messages with the well as confidence building on the ground,” “I have nothing more to say except that
Zone (APECO) in Casiguran and the Aurora Development Project CBCPNews, Fr. Eduardo Vasquez, OMI, said Ghazali Jaafar, MILF vice chairman for they are very welcome,” Alejo said.
(ADP). who in Samal Island in Davao, said that with Political Affairs. Vasquez said EU’s participation in the peace
Infanta Social Action director Fr. Israel Gabriel said the church is Aquino as president and EU as head of the Jaafar said the EU’s involvement in the talks is a “very welcome development.”
not anti-progress but it only opposes growth projects that would in Humanitarian, Rehabilitation and Develop- peace process further firms up all efforts, led “The involvement of more players from
turn displace thousands of villagers from their ancestral lands and ment component of the International Moni- by the government and MILF with the help the international community is very good
lose their source of livelihood. toring Team of the GRP-MILF peace talks, of the Organization of Islamic Conference for the peace process. If there are many eyes
“It would cater only to the whims and caprices of a few vested “the future of the peace talks in Mindanao (OIC) at achieving “a just, comprehensive, that watch, especially from the international
interest groups,” Gabriel said of the proposed industrialization. is very bright.” lasting and acceptable peaceful resolution community, there is a big possibility that bad
“The political leaders should also recognize the rights of indigenous Vasquez, founder of the “Bahay Kalinga” to the Bangsamoro issue.” practices that will again trigger the conflict
people to their ancestral domain,” he explained. or House of Care in Maguindanao province, “It’s a positive development indicating in Mindanao can be avoided,” he said. (Bong
Gabriel also criticized the ongoing logging and mining operations said that these developments are “made in the strong commitment and support of the D. Fabe)
in the province, including the Global Titan Mines and Development heaven.”
Corporation operating in Casiguran and Dilasag and the Berlie Min- “I voted for Aquino because of his cred-
ing Company Limited in San Luis. ibility. And I hope that as president, he will
The priest expressed outrage over the involvement of the military continue the legacy left by his world-famous
in the attempt to stifle legitimate dissent against projects. parents,” he said.
Some of these attempts, he said, are the deployment of soldiers in some While many will easily dismiss Aquino’s
populated areas, as well as involving civilians in the conduct of military inexperience, his sincerity to public service
operations. (Jason de Asis) and the fulfillment of his campaign promises,
which he always emphasized in talks with
Lifeguard / A5 the media, is what will carry him through
planning. Both will see each other’s fertility as a gift, not a disease the very volatile peace negotiations in Min-
that needs contraceptive cure. The couple will rather adjust to the danao, Vasquez said.
woman’s bodily rhythms than withdraw anything or place a bar- Jesuit Fr. Albert Alejo, for his part, said: “It
rier in their very act of lovemaking. “Man must reconcile himself is very good to start with a president who
with his natural greatness,” (p.236) says the Pope. Although man is sincere and whose parents were actors in
can “master” nature, it is only by enhancing and not by interfering Mindanao’s search for peace.”
or mutilating his healthy and normal reproductive designs through Alejo, a social anthropologist and execu-
contraception and sterilization. tive director of the Mindanawon Initiative
Here, Wojtyla gives a clinical repercussions of contracepted sex: for Cultural Dialogue, said that for the
“Biological methods besides causing temporary barrenness, may Aquino administration to attain lasting and
bring about serious and irreversible changes in the organism. Chemi- comprehensive peace in Mindanao, he must
cal means are in their very nature cellular poisons, otherwise they first “form a strong Mindanao team” that
would not have the power to kill genital cells, and so they must be will help him plan and implement programs
physically harmful. Mechanical means cause local injuries in the toward this goal.
woman’s reproductive tract, and what is more interfere with the The peace negotiations with the MILF
intensity of the act.”(p.282) over the past 13 years have been blighted
Now comes Wojtyla’s very controversial tips on sexual frigidity by claims of ceasefire violations, territorial
and impotence. He suggests that couples should aspire to come and other irreconcilable issues.
into sexual climax simultaneously. He says: “It is necessary to insist But with Aquino as president, and the EU’s
that intercourse must not serve merely as means of allowing sexual participation in the peace process, hopes are
excitement to reach its climax in one of the partners, the man alone, high that lasting and comprehensive peace
but that climax must be breached in harmony.”(p.272). in Mindanao is within grasp.
If a woman is not satisfied, this might cause her sexual frigidity This is because the IMT is a “critical com-
or even aversion to lovemaking. For a man not to come easily, Woj- ponent” in the success of peace negotiations,
tyla argues, he needs self-control and tenderness in bed, such that said the Philippine Council for Islam and
abstinence sometimes functions as a therapy. “Precisely because Democracy (PCID) in a statement.
a slower and more gradual rise in the curve of sexual arousal is “The EU’s experience and neutrality” as
characteristic of the female organism that the need for tenderness a tool to “help progress in the peace process
during physical intercourse, and also before it begins and after its under a new administration, is a step in the
conclusion, is explicable,” Wojtyla says. This is why “the shorter right direction,” PCID said.
and more violent curvature in the man…acquires the significance Ambassador Alistair MacDonald an-
of…the virtue of continence.” (p.275) nounced earlier the EU’s confirmation of
And, if indeed abstinence makes the heart grow fonder, who could participating in the IMT.
be a better teacher in abstinence than celibates? After all, celibates The announcement was welcomed by all
are sexual persons too. The linchpin is how a celibate faces the truth sectors, most especially the MILF, which said
of his sexuality and how he preaches its dynamics as God’s gift to that EU’s decision is a “landmark develop-
humanity, as the beloved Wojtyla did. ment” towards peace in Mindanao.
A8 People, Facts & Places CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 11
May 24 - June 6, 2010

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)

Salesians hold conference for


© www.flickr.com

CBCP office holds catechists and youth ministers


regional consultation
A THREE-DAY conference and workshop on ministry must consider its important respon- call to evangelize.
the spirituality of catechists and youth min- sibility to make the young meet Christ and For youth ministers, the discussions
isters was held at the Don Bosco Technical discover how to live as Christ’s disciples centered mainly on the preparation for the
Institute in Makati City last May 5-7. according to their vocation and mission in ground vocation, discernment of one's voca-

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

82-year old nun


Markings
points that will be included in the draft pastoral statement for
indigenous peoples.

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

Cardinals in Rome. He was the fourth


You won’t hear such Filipino archbishop to receive the title. The
thing from Sr. Ger- other Filipino cardinals were Rufino Cardi-
© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media

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,

CFA holds catechetical workshop


Fr. Salazar obtained his Master of Arts in Mass
Communications at the National Broadcasting School, University of Leeds,
at The Hague, Netherlands. He finished his doctoral studies in Mass Com-
munication at the University of Leicester, England. Fr. Salazar is currently

for pastoral workers and teachers


the executive secretary of the Federation of Asian Bishops Conferences
(FABC) Office of Education and Faith Formation (OEFF).

ELECTED. Fr. Celso Godilano, SSP, as Vicar


General of the Society of St. Paul, May 11, 2010,
AS a response to the need of pastoral workers Speakers of the seminar-workshop were on workshop to practice their learning. during the General Chapter of the congrega-
and teachers for re-energizing and renewal, Sr. Cecille Lanas, OSB and Ms. Maritoni Participants were catechists, Christian tion held in Ariccia, Rome from April 25-May
15, 2010. Fr. Godilano, 54, a native of Iloilo, is
the Communication Foundation for Asia Suarez, Noel de Leon, CFA’s Publica- Living teachers, and Church workers currently the Regional Superior of Great Britain-
(CFA) convened a catechetical seminar- tions and Sales Director and Fr. Stephen from various schools, parishes and nearby Ireland. As elected General Councillor and Vicar
workshop on May 16-21, 2010 at the main Cuyos, MSC, CFA Training and Produc- dioceses. General, he will be stationed in Rome together
office of CFA in Sta. Mesa, Manila. tion Specialist. This year’s theme was “The Role of Media with the other members of the General Council
composed of three Italians, a Mexican, an In-
Organizers said the workshop aimed to The event ended with a sharing and hands- in Catechetics.” (CBCPNews) dian and a Colombian. The Society of St. Paul
help the participants to further is a religious congregation founded by Blessed
understand the present world of James Alberione in 1914 in Alba, Italy with the
social communications. mission of evangelization through the means of
social communication. In the Philippines, the congregation has its central
The event had three main house in Makati City and seminary in Silang, Cavite.
modules namely, the Bibliodrama
workshop, Fundamentals of
Gospel Story Telling and Social
Media for Evangelization. Seminar on restorative justice
and volunteerism held in Cebu
The first session tackled the ele-
ments of Bibliodrama such as the
enthronement of the Bible with
veneration of the Word, different A SEMINAR on restorative Care (ECPPC) was the resource
ways of approaching the text, justice and volunteerism aimed speaker during the seminar.
exploration of the text, via-gesis at creating an understanding on Among those discussed were
leading to the embodiment of how to engage and motivate the the understanding of justice,
the Word, body prayer dances, community in the work of justice principles and values govern-
traveling through the life map of was held at the Cebu Grand Ho- ing the understanding of jus-
Jesus, vignette/sculpting the text, tel last May 18, 2010. tice as well as models and its
and the full Bibliodrama play. Organized by the Parole and practical application on justice
The second session discussed Probation Administrators (PPA), system.
the “what, why and how” of Gos- the event also sought to establish Lectures on engaging commu-
pel Story-telling which will lead a better grasp of the relation- nity involvement and discussion
to a deeper appreciation of the ship between the PPA and its on the challenge to volunteerism
language of the Scriptures. volunteers. were also given.
The third session discussed
the relation of social media and
Church.
SM Megamall * The Podium Rodolfo Diamante, Executive
Secretary of CBCP’s Episcopal
Commission on Prison Pastoral
The seminar ended with an
individual reflection and group
discussion. (CBCPNews)
Pastoral Concerns
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 11
May 24 - June 6, 2010
B1

The Conclusion of the


Year for Priests
Dear Priests,
The Year for Priests brings great joy to the Church
and she thanks the Lord for having inspired the Holy
Father to announce it. All the information which is
presented here in Rome concerning the numerous
initiatives taken by the local Churches throughout
the world, in order to put this special year into
effect, are proof of how this Year has been so well
received and—we can add—how it has responded
to a true and deep longing of priests and the entire
People of God. It was time to give special attention,
acknowledgement and commitment to the great,
hardworking and irreplaceable presbyterium, and
to each individual priest of the Church.
I t i s t r u e t h a t , a l b e i t the humanity entrusted to them
proportionately small in number, by Jesus Christ. Their visibility
some priests have committed in the Square, before the modern
horrible and most serious crimes world, will be a proclamation of
of sexual abuse upon minors, their being sent not to condemn
deeds that we must condemn the world, but to save it (cf. Jn. 3:
and rebuke in an absolute and 17 and 12: 47). In such a context
uncompromising manner. Those even a large number will have

© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media


individuals must answer for their a special significance.
actions before God and before There is yet another particular
tribunals, including the civil motivation for the presence in
courts. Nevertheless, we also pray Rome of numerous priests for
that they might achieve spiritual the conclusion of the Year for
conversion and receive pardon Priests, which is found at the
from God. The Church, for her heart of the Church today. One
part, is determined neither to speaks of offering to our beloved

Parents and Family of Priests


hide nor to minimize such crimes. Pope Benedict XVI our solidarity,
Above all we our support,
are on the side our confidence,
of the victims and our

(On the Year for Priests)


and want to unconditional
support their communion,
recovery and in the face of
their offended the frequent
rights. attacks directed THE Holy Father Benedict XVI declared memoirs of the late Pope John Paul II we have given them teaching you gave to me,
On the towards Him, at that the Feast of the Most Sacred Heart of read this. “After the death of my mother and they have indeed accepted it and know
other hand, it this moment of Jesus 2009 to the Feast of the Most Sacred and later the death of my older brother, for certain that I came from you, and have
is absolutely time, in the field Heart of Jesus 2010 would be the celebration I was left alone with my father, a deeply believed that it was you who sent me. It is
unacceptable to of his decisions of the Year for Priests all over the world in religious man. Day after day I was able to for them that I pray” (John 17:6-9).
use the crimes of with regard to order to memorialize the 150th anniversary observe the austere way in which he lived. Parents who pray become aware that the
the few in order clerics involved of the death of Saint John Mary Vianney, By profession he was a soldier and, after children they pray for are in reality God’s
to sully the in crimes of the the patron saint of parish priests. In many my mother’s death, his life became one of children, who have just been entrusted to
entire ecclesial sexual abuse of our parishes and arch/dioceses, the constant prayer. Sometimes I would wake them only to care for. And so it makes sense
body of priests. of minors. The priests have been prayed for; programs and up during the night and find my father on that, sometimes, God will call them back
Those who accusations seminars on the priesthood were held. The his knees, just as I would always see him to Himself to share His love with others
do so commit d i r e c t e d Second National Congress of Priests last kneeling in the parish church. We never beyond their family.
a profound towards Him January 25–29, 2010 was a most grace-filled
injustice. In the are obviously celebration for, and among priests.
course of the unjust, and it Lest we forget, there are still many people
Year for Priests, has been shown that, in the Archdiocese of Manila, we will
the Church that no one has have to thank for, pray for, and embrace in
seeks to say done as much as our priestly life and ministry—they are our
this to human Benedict XVI to parents, our sisters and brothers and their
society. Anyone condemn and to families. Through sheer priestly ordination
possessed of combat properly we have already made it possible for them
common sense such crimes. to belong to the signal Levitical family.
and goodwill Therefore, the This afternoon we pause to celebrate with
knows it to be The conclusion large presence families the gift of the priesthood and their
the truth. of the Year for of priests in the continuing role in our Priesthood.
That being Priests will not be, S q u a r e w i t h Let us together celebrate the “immense
necessarily
said, we turn
properly speaking, Him will be
a determined
gift which priests represent not only for the
Church, but also for humanity itself”.
now to you, a conclusion, but rejection of the Let us not only cling to the claim that they,
dear priests. We a new beginning. unjust attacks our parents, gave us life. We truly love our
want to repeat We, the People of which he parents for the life they shared with us, and
to you, yet is a victim. So for mentoring us through this great gift of
of God and its then, come as
again, that we life from God and for accompanying us
recognise that shepherds, want well to publicly in the path of virtue, early enough almost
which you are to thank the Lord s u p p o r t t h e as soon as we understand what goodness
and that which for this privileged Holy Father. and right are. When we were young we
© Noli Yamsuan/RCAM

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

Blue Liturgical Vestments Canonical Process for


Alleged Sexual Abuse
(Father Edward McNamara, professor of liturgy at the Regina
Apostolorum university, answers the following queries:)

Q1 : During his visit to Austria in 2007, Pope Benedict XVI


wore a blue chasuble and stole as well as a blue miter. Does

of Minors by Clerics
this mean that blue vestments may now be used for feasts of
the Blessed Virgin Mary?—C.J., Anaheim, California

Q2 : Attending Mass at our parish church on the feast of


the Presentation of Jesus at the Temple, I saw that our parish
priest was proudly wearing his new blue stole that he had
received as a gift from the local community. In our region, this
feast is primarily considered as a feast of Our Lady, hence the
color. As far as I know, blue is not officially allowed in our
diocese, but is tolerated. Contrary, there is no matching deacon
stole available, so the deacon was wearing a white stole. Is it
acceptable that both priest and deacon wear stoles of different
colors and how should such “conflicts” be handled?—F.H.,
Houthulst, Flanders, Belgium

A : Since both of these questions are intimately related, I


will attempt to address them together.
Blue is not one of the standard liturgical colors and it may
only be used in virtue of a special privilege. By blue vestments
we mean those manufactured from cerulean fabric. White
vestments with blue motifs or trimmings are not subject to
any restriction.
The privilege of using blue vestments in the Latin rite is of
two kinds. One kind is that granted to some important Marian
shrines. This was the case of Pope Benedict’s Mass which was
held at Austria’s foremost center of devotion to Mary. The decree
granting the privilege determines whether these vestments may
be used habitually or only on certain major feasts.
The other privilege is that granted to whole countries. For
example, all Spanish churches may adopt blue vestments on the
feast of the Immaculate Conception, and this favor is sometimes

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

Colors of Cassocks and Altar Cloths


secular press regarding its handling of truth (i.e., not manifestly false or frivolous) makes a decision on what the next steps
allegations of sexual abuse of minors undergoes what is referred to as a preliminary might be. The decision is based on the
by priests in several countries (notably investigation. material gathered during the preliminary
in the U.S., Ireland, England and The bishop appoints an investigator, who investigation and on the observations and
Q1: Is it now proper for altar servers and adult servers
Germany). The accusations can be has the obligation and the authority to collect recommendations of the bishop regarding
to wear a cassock color-coordinated with the vestments of the the facts and circumstances surrounding the allegation and what might be a suitable
priest and deacon? I arrived at a church today to find the adult summarized into three: (1) that the the allegation, so that the bishop can make way to address it.
server/lector attired not in a white alb, but in a green cassock Church has no clear-cut procedure a determination about its truthfulness and The next steps could include several
(to match the priest’s and deacon’s vestments), a white surplice, for handling such allegations; (2) what further action he would recommend options depending on what materials the
and a green cape over them. (I shuddered, wondering if the to the Congregation for the Doctrine of CDF received. Among them, the CDF could
that the Church has a policy of being the Faith. The investigator often uses the authorize the bishop to hold a trial locally or
parish had just bought lots of this color-coordinated stuff.) It
looked like an Episcopalian church. Is this now the “in” fashion? secretive about such cases, tending to expert services of others to assist with the to address the allegation through a simplified,
Where is it authorized for servers to wear anything other than protect more the erring clerics than the investigation. In the United States─where administrative penal process. It could also
a white alb and cincture?—K.S., Bartlesville, Oklahoma aggrieved parties; (3) that the Church the procedural norms are more developed hold a trial in Rome at the offices of the CDF.
conceals such allegations from the because of the spate of allegations in the In the clearest and most egregious cases, the
Q2: The altar cloths are always in white. Are we allowed
civil authorities. In the interest of the
past decade─the bishop also makes use of CDF could refer the matter to the Pope for
to use any other colored clothes on the altar for celebrating Mass the services of his Diocesan Review Board, immediate dismissal of the cleric (see below
and other liturgical celebrations?—R.G., Kohima, India truth─which the responsible faithful a panel of experts, to help him review the for more on this). It might also happen that
should know how to proclaim in the allegation and associated information. The more information is needed before a decision
A : As these questions are related to decorative elements, I face of such crude attacks against the bishop and investigator are careful not to can be made. This would require the bishop to
will respond to both of them together. interfere with any civil investigation into gather the information and forward it to the
No. 119.c and No. 339 of the General Introduction of the Roman
Holy Father himself─let us tackle the accusation that might take place. The CDF. The CDF could also confirm, if the facts
Missal (GIRM) succinctly summarizes the current norms. No. these issues systematically in two investigator and others who assist in the and circumstances warranted it, that there is
119.c states: “In the sacristy, the sacred vestments (cf. below, installments of this column. investigation may be laypersons. In the not sufficient evidence of the commission of
nos. 337-341) for the priest, the deacon, and other ministers are Philippines, the few cases that have prospered an ecclesiastical crime.
to be prepared according to the various forms of celebration: The Church Law against the Sexual Abuse beyond the gossip stage have involved an As to the charge of slowness of the Holy
… c. For the other ministers: albs or other lawfully approved of Minors by Clerics investigation by the parish pastoral council, See to address such cases of alleged sexual
attire. All who wear an alb should use a cincture and an amice Contrary to the first charge, the Church admittedly a not very discrete body given abuses of minors, it must be kept in mind that
unless, due to the form of the alb, they are not needed.” has long had laws on the books that address the number of people involved. the CDF would normally have knowledge
Recently, these norms were slightly broadened by an updated this crime. Even before the codification of the During the preliminary investigation, of the accusation only when it is reported to
version of June 1994 guidelines issued by the U.S. bishops’ Church laws in 1917 and in 1983, sins against the accused enjoys the presumption of the Congregation by the bishop or religious
conference: “The suggested guidelines may be used as a basis the Sixth Commandment with a minor were innocence and his good name must not be superior.
for developing diocesan guidelines. Number 6: ‘Acolytes, altar also considered as criminal acts. From 1917 illegitimately harmed. This is a fundamental Finally, as to the specific attacks on
servers, readers, and other lay ministers may wear the alb or onwards, the Church promulgated concise norm procedural law, also in the law of the Benedict XVI regarding his slowness in
other suitable vesture or other appropriate or dignified clothing. legal norms that stated this and that imposed state. acting in such cases, we have to point
(General Instruction of the Roman Missal, no. 339) All servers penalties on clerics guilty of such heinous The charge of foot-dragging and secrecy out that the Pope does not normally get
should wear the same liturgical vesture.’” crimes. leveled on the Church, especially in the involved, since the CDF handles these
Although the alb and cincture may be used everywhere, both In April 2001, Pope John Paul II issued a law United States, is gross calumny. According cases. The Pope does not supervise the daily
the universal and national norms intentionally leave the door stating that, from then on, the Congregation to the Essential Norms─the law on sexual activities of the Congregation nor become
open for local customs. These vary from place to place, and for the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF) in Rome, abuse of minors for the dioceses of the United involved in particular cases as they are being
each bishop may issue norms for his own diocese. headed at the time by Cardinal Ratzinger States─the investigation should be conducted processed.
In most places, adult servers use the alb or a similar vestment (the future Pope Benedict XVI), would have promptly and objectively. The Essential
that is usually white or off-white in color. Some places use a sole Church authority over such crimes, Norms also require the bishop to follow Meanwhile, what of the Cleric accused?
cassock and surplice. There is more variety for younger servers. which were referred to as graviora delicta all civil reporting laws when the allegation A common complaint is that the clerics
For example, in Italy most young altar servers use a black or or “serious crimes”, giving the title to the concerns the sexual abuse of minors. It further accused of such crimes are allowed to
a red cassock with a surplice, although some places also use aforementioned legal document. requires Church officials to cooperate with perpetuate their criminal acts while the
the “Tarcissian.” This is a kind of off-white alb with two red Prior to 2001, the crime would have been civil authorities in their own investigations. process is taking place, and such processes
stripes running from the shoulder to the floor, thus evoking generally dealt with on the local level by the Moreover, the bishop exercises his power of could take ages. While this could happen in
the ancient Roman tunic. diocesan bishop. The CDF would have been governance in other ways to make sure that no isolated cases, the usual thing is for a bishop
In some parts of Poland and the Baltic countries, both adults involved if the offense had occurred on the harm comes to the minors during this phase to withdraw a cleric from active ministry
and children can sometimes be seen serving Mass wearing only occasion of the celebration of the Sacrament of the preliminary investigation. pending the outcome of an investigation
a surplice over their ordinary clothes. of Penance (confession). Otherwise, the case of the allegation. This is done primarily to
I have never seen the green cassock or any effort to coordinate would have gone for a second hearing (appeal 2nd Stage: Involvement by the Holy See assure that minors are not in danger should
the server’s vesture with the liturgical season. Either this is an from the diocese) to the Congregation for The Congregation for the Doctrine of it prove true that the cleric had committed
established custom in the area or some new initiative. I doubt Clergy or the Tribunal of the Roman Rota, the Faith (CDF) has the sole competence acts of abuse.
very much it is a new liturgical fashion. It would be necessary depending on how the allegation had been in resolving allegations of sexual abuse On the other hand, it must be emphasized
to consult with the diocesan liturgy office regarding established resolved at the local level. of minors committed by clerics. But this again that the cleric enjoys the presumption
norms before broaching the question with the pastor. competence does not “kick in” until a case is of innocence. This should be made clear by
Regarding the second question, I would say that the following The Canonical Process to resolve Allegations referred to it by the local bishop (or religious the diocese to the public. If the allegation
norm from the American translation of the GIRM No. 304, of Sexual Abuse of Minors by Clerics. superior in the case of religious clerics). The is unfounded, the bishop must strive to
although specifically geared toward the United States, is bishop makes the decision as to whether a repair any illegitimate damage to the good
equally applicable to many other countries. The use of a colored 1st Stage: Preliminary Investigation. case will be referred to the CDF based on the reputation of the priest or deacon. [To be
seasonal antependium, or frontal, is a long-standing custom The Code of Canon Law stipulates that result of the Preliminary Investigation. continued.]
in the Latin rite and may be used to enhance the awareness of
the liturgical season.
Parents / B1
“Out of reverence for the celebration of the memorial of the
Lord and for the banquet in which the Body and Blood of the prayer, respect, the good some troublesome sense of loss. all married and have their own where God needs you and us.
Lord are offered on an altar where this memorial is celebrated, example of domestic virtues I asked them why? They said families. They hardly have time Thank You.
there should be at least one white cloth, its shape, size, and and spiritual and material help, that they had a fear of losing to visit us, but as a priest, you
decoration in keeping with the altar’s design. When, in the especially in difficult moments” me, and would not be able to find time to be with us. (Above is the text of the homily
dioceses of the United States of America, other cloths are used (PDV, 68). see me again (soon). “You will Today, in this Eucharistic delivered by His Eminence
in addition to the altar cloth, then those cloths may be of other I will end with a conversation I be difficult to see and to visit”. celebration honoring the Gaudencio B. Cardinal Rosales,
colors possessing Christian honorific or festive significance had once with my aging mother But then they laughed loudly Priesthood we all share, we Archbishop of Manila, during the
according to longstanding local usage, provided that the and father. They admitted to me together. But now we found brother priests take the time to Eucharistic celebration on the Day
uppermost cloth covering the mensa (i.e., the altar cloth itself) that when I entered the seminary out we were wrong. This time I be with you, our dear parents. of Parents and Siblings of Priests
is always white in color.” for the first time, they shed tears, asked them again, “Why?” your We celebrate and pray with you on May 17, 2010, at 6 p.m. at the
much tears and had experienced brothers and sisters are now that we may continue to see Manila Cathedral.)
Features
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 11
May 24 - June 6, 2010
B3

Priest of Christ, Priest of the People


By Rev. Eutiquio ‘Euly’ B. I have and everything I am. seminary staff, seminarians and what looked like giant roses. But we owe to the Third Person them, “Can I have a chance to
Belizar, Jr., SThD The challenge to you and me, formators. When the rector was upon close examination they of the Blessed Trinity, we take at least a breath?” Only
but especially to us ministerial asked why they came to that were actually water melons. also confess that our spiritual then do some people realize
priests in Eastern Samar and decision, he simply said: “Only The poor water melons brought personal sanctuaries leave a lot we are also human and can get
WHENEVER you come anywhere, is always to put on the mother had the vocation to the presence of giant roses right to be desired. Three words must tired, hungry and weary; in
humility when we minister the priesthood, not the son.” into the rectory ground floor. help us locate the venues for the other words, that we are NOT
across a priest, have to you. The reason is simple. If it is Jesus Christ who truly But the water melons remained Spirit’s self-manifestation in our SUPERMEN but, like them, also
you ever asked yourself Our priesthood is not ours. It calls us and makes us priests, then water melons. Humbly serving ministry: WORD, EUCHARIST, human.
exactly what being a is Christ’s priesthood that we our fundamental response must ministerial priests bring Christ COMMUNITY. When we pray, Now, often when we think
priest means and even borrowed from him and which be to totally entrust ourselves the Head’s presence into the listen to and proclaim the Word ‘human’ we think ‘bad’ or
he has generously shared with into his hands. It is he who must ground floor of daily Christian of the Lord, no matter how ‘negative’, such as weak, sinful,
whether or not the word unfaithful, fallible. But suppose
us. Even if we say we are priests take the driver’s seat in our living where through them unworthy and sinful we all are,
only applies to one single forever according to the order lives. “Have faith in God and Christ again proclaims the we could still be at the beck and instead of being angry, I stay
group of Christians? of Melchisedech, it is really have faith in me” (Jn 14:1) is his Word, imparts the sacramental call of the Spirit. We all have calm and kind to parishioners
Have you ever considered only Jesus Christ who is the basic challenge. When we heed moments of grace and shepherds experiences of being surprised who are so demanding of a
Priest forever despite that our the call to follow Jesus Christ, his people. But, like the water with insights in conversations priest’s services, would you not
that the priest is both be able to say, “Kaupay ni Padre.
priesthood is also eternal (no Jesus Christ also shows us which melons, they remain the unique and sacramental confessions
a priest of Christ and a wonder because it’s his). Real kind of priesthood he wants human beings, unique human that come out of our lips while Tawo magtrato ha am’ (amon)
priest of the people? But, humility is shown, for instance, us to share: Either we remain persons that they are. we minister to fellow sinners. [Father is so good. He treats us
again, what do we mean when we, ministerial priests, are royal priests serving God and 4. It is the Spirit of Christ The Eucharist is where we meet like human beings].” Doesn’t
when we say that? What able to truly listen to you even mankind as footwashers or as who Empowers the Priestly daily the Holy Spirit not only in this tell us that I, as a priest, have
when what you tell us does not ministerial priests, footwashers Ministry/ Challenge: Strengthen the Word but especially in the not ceased being human even
challenges do the truths conform to our own ideas. Help of the footwashers. Priestly Spirituality transformation of the bread and if I did something seemingly
we derive from these us become humble instruments 3. It is to Christ the Head We have all reached this wine into the Body and Blood virtuous?” In other words, to
kernel truths pose to us by also putting humility on That the Priest is Configured/ parish called Balangkayan’s St. of the Lord Jesus Christ. The be human is not necessarily
as Catholic Christians? yourselves. Challenge: Modeling the Bonaventure Parish because we community is where the Holy bad or negative or weak; on
2. It is Christ who Calls the Good Shepherd by Servant rode a tricycle, a car, jeepney, Spirit manifests his diverse the contrary, to be human is
Priest of Christ Priest/ Challenge: Faith as Leadership truck, SUV etc. We all know gifts and the joy of being loved positive. That is to say, there is
1. Jesus Christ as the Only Fundamental Response Have you ever wondered, as each of those things wouldn’t and loving others the way Jesus something fundamentally good
Priest, the Rest Being Sharers/ When I was loves. We all about our humanity that we
Challenge: Priest (Royal in high school must strive show when we also recognize
or Ministerial) as Humble seminary, to cultivate the human dignity of others
Instrument there was a listening through acts of respect, service
Would you know how many huge portrait and being and compassion. On the other
priests there are in the world? of Jesus loved as hand, it is also true that part
The answer is not the number that greeted well as of being human is also being
of the ordained. To me the more everyone at being able to weak, fallible and being at times
honest answer is that we don’t the seminary reciprocate subject to temptation and sin.
know and that is that there’s no lobby. I in love in and But in no way does this express
way for anyone to tell how many wondered through our the complete meaning of being
priests there are exactly because whatever presbyteral human. A priest’s humanity, in
all of the baptized are priests happened to community both its positive and negative
and belong to God’s priestly it in the course as well as aspects, is not removed by his
people. I have two statements of the years. through ordination. We know this. But
to make and they would seem But I still our parish we can forget. For instance,
contradictory. Statement one: remember commu- when a priest makes mistakes
We are all priests. Statement quite clearly n i t i e s , in the way he celebrates Mass,
two: Only Jesus Christ is the the words at including in his mannerisms, in his choices
priest. Would you believe me the bottom of the smaller of members of the PPC, in his
if I told you that both of them the portrait: commu- decisions and policies, it’s so
are true at the same time? Yes, FOLLOW nities inside easy at times to condemn or
we are all priests because that ME. In my them. The judge him especially in our
is what we have become when teenager’s diocese conversations, jokes or even
we were baptized. But we are mind I m u s t chats in the internet. We forget
all priests by baptism because understood also be a that the priest is just as human as
Jesus Christ thus shared with t h a t community we are, just as kind or subject to
© Noli Yamsuan/RCAM

us his priesthood. everything in order anger as we are, just as chaste or


Why is Jesus the only Priest? depended for the subject to indecent temptations
Because only he has offered to the on that call, ministerial as we are, just as patient or as
Father the perfect worship when including the priesthood easily prone to screaming or
he gave himself completely to ministerial to truly expressing loss of patience as we
the doing of the Father’s will to priesthood. unfold its are. That is why, the challenge
the point of shedding that we need to take
his own blood on the up always in our
cross. But why have life as a diocese
we become priests and as parishes is
also? The answer to be a community
reminds me of St. where God’s love
Robert Bellarmine’s is alive in the way
catechetical dialogue we truly accept,
at which he is forgive, build up and
asked, “Are you a support one another
Christian?” and he after the “new
answers, “By the commandment”
grace of God I am.” of loving as Jesus
There is no better has always loved
explanation for the us. There was this
priesthood of Jesus priest who even his
being shared by you fellow priests found
and me than God’s it difficult to relate
love which, without to. He was known to
our deserving it, has be rough and harsh
given us that grace with people. But
of sharing in the whenhevolunteered
priesthood of Jesus to take care of a
Christ. There are two small community,
ways we share in this the people of this
priesthood. When we small community
were baptized we all accepted him
received the royal or wholeheartedly and
© Noli Yamsuan/RCAM

kingly priesthood of very patiently in


Jesus Christ. Because a way that priests
of Jesus, then, we themselves noticed.
have become not only The effect was also
priests but also kings. palpable. The priest,
However, we must once surly and bitter,
bear in mind what Jesus himself It even became more emphatic I have, what exactly the Church have taken us here if they didn’t spiritual riches as the Holy Spirit became more relaxed and kinder
means by our kingship: It means when I would see seminarians means when she teaches that have an engine. What an engine permeates us completely with to the people themselves. As
being footwashers or servants of from wealthier families and ordination brings the male is to a vehicle, the Holy Spirit is his presence and action. older priests would quote a
others. To quote PCP II: “To serve not-so-wealthy ones not making Catholic a “configuration into to the ministerial priesthood and Spanish dictum, “Amor con
is to reign”. The other priesthood even the four-year minor Christ the Head” (PO 2, PCP II to disciples in general. It is the Priest of the People amor se paga (Love is paid with
is ministerial priesthood which seminary formation. Seminary 516)? Do you care enough for Spirit who through ordination 1. The Priest is Still Human love)”. But the challenge to be
is received by some male formation had lots of surprises your priests to even try to know enables the male Catholic to Despite Ordination/ Challenge: a community is first of all ours
Catholics when they are given for many seminarians, their what that means? Have you ever share in the one and unique Concrete Experience of as priests to take up. The more
the sacrament of Holy Orders. families and in particular for asked if this is some kind of a priesthood of Jesus Christ. Community (Among Priests we grow up to be a brotherhood
Why is it called “ministerial me, not least for the fact that I “spiritual cloning” of Jesus Christ He is the real agent who truly and With Lay Faithful) where the new commandment
priesthood”? Ministerial means, made it. I remember our retreat the Head appearing differently empowers the ministerial priest In a barangay, a priest just of love is alive, the more effective
according to PCP II, that it is a director in college seminary in different ministerial priests in a way that is distinct from the finished celebrating Mass and instruments we would become
servant priesthood, servant to asking all of us graduating but being exactly the same Christ royal priests. The fruit of his took off his chasuble and alb of Christ the Head’s presence
your royal priesthood so that it philosophy seminarians, “Have the Head in each? Isn’t this the work is the ministerial priest’s (sotana) at the sacristy. A small among his people.
may realize itself (PCP II, 513). you stopped asking yourself, great culprit behind the sacral embodiment in his person and boy happened to have come in 2. The Priest Mirrors the
Because there are ministerial ‘Is the Lord calling me? Or am image of the priest who would be acts Christ the Head so that it from the back of the church. Strengths and Weaknesses of his
priests like us you can offer the I calling myself?’” I remember often regarded “Christ himself is really and truly Jesus Christ When he saw the priest’s long People/ Challenge: Discipleship
perfect sacrifice of Jesus we call seminarians who behaved as if upon earth”? who preaches, blesses, presides, pants, he shouted to his mother, Modeling By Both Priests and
Holy Eucharist. they had to do everything just to Whatever our cultural status binds wounds and cares for the “Nanay, it’ padi lalaki ngay- Lay Faithful
I’d like to confess a secret. be ordained priests eventually. is, being configured to Christ the weak among the Lord’s flock. an! (Ma, the priest is actually I’ve heard many lay people
When I graduated from Grade Many of them did not make it. Head doesn’t mean at all being The spirituality of the a man!)” We laugh at the say how much they have been
Six I just borrowed the long There were also seminarians replacements of Jesus Christ ministerial priest is such that the innocence of that observation inspired by good, holy and
pair of trousers and long who seemed to me to be perfect or being his “spiritual clones”. Holy Spirit enables him to serve but many times we have not faithful priests. What they
sleeves white polo shirt I wore, candidates for the married There is only one Jesus Christ God’s people either through really outgrown that view. For also need to know is that we
what constituted as the male life or the world outside but and no human being can ever religious consecration at which example, I’ll possibly be unable priests are also inspired by
graduation dress at that time. ended up being ordained and be his replacement. Rather the he can be sent anywhere in the to count the times in which good, holy and faithful lay
It wasn’t even myself who did became good and holy priests ministerial priest glories only in world or through affiliation to people who saw me coming faithful. Whenever I preside
the borrowing but my Grade Six afterwards. being an instrument of making a local or particular Church, into the rectory from a trip to a over wedding anniversaries,
teacher. I was so embarrassed. The basic lesson is that Christ the Head present in his the diocese, presided over barangay or after having been to and I believe this is also true with
Nobody really noticed except only Christ calls people to the person and ministerial acts for by a bishop, alongside other a long and tedious presbyteral my other fellow priests, I feel
myself. But the experience priesthood. Only he makes and on behalf of God’s People ministerial priests who are also assembly say to me, “Father, encouraged by the faithfulness
taught me what humility is. As priests, not you and me, however inside and outside the Church. rightly called diocesan priests. can I talk to you about a family of these married couples to
I was on my way to receive my good or noble our intentions. This reminds me of Fr. Nemie We ministerial priests must problem?” or “Father, could one another. Their faithfulness
diploma and awards, I realized it A rector confided to me how Quiloña’s reception for the accept that our relationship with you please come with me and serves to push us to become
wasn’t only the graduation dress a seminarian was sent out fiesta of San Isidro Labrador in the Holy Spirit is ambivalent. administer the Anointing of the more faithful to our priestly
that I borrowed but everything of the seminary after a long Salcedo. He served us a delicious By that I mean that while we Sick to our sick mother/father/ commitments ourselves.
and painful consultation with lunch on tables decorated with all acknowledge how much grandparent/child?” I often tell Priests / B4
Features
CBCP Monitor
B4 Vol. 14 No. 11
May 24 - June 6, 2010

RH Bill is a dead issue

© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media


By Bernardo M. Villegas control, let me summarize here why exception of the United States, are all our non-identical twin, Thailand fiscal deficit while still having enough
a legislation like the RH Bill could suffering from the devastating effects should be a model for us in the area revenues to continue improving our
be economically counterproductive. of the demographic winter. of agricultural development. But we physical infrastructure and the quality
Whoever gets elected as the next The most recent evidence that a large Another strong argument against should avoid literally like the plague of education.
President of the Philippines, he would population is an asset and not a liability to population control is the peculiar case its population control experience. It would really be foolish for the next
be well advised to assign the lowest a developing country like the Philippines of Thailand. Even prescinding from The next President knows very President to assign any importance to
priority to population management is what I call the “VIP phenomenon.” the ongoing political unrest, Thailand’s well that the most serious challenge the RH Bill which can only divide the
or population control among his During the Great Recession we have still relatively large population of over to his Administration will be to raise country needlessly and not even promise
immediate concerns during the first just experienced, only three countries 60 million did not enable it to get into government revenues in order to reduce an immediate solution to the pressing
100 days of his mandate. In fact, I in East Asia (with the exception of the list of the Next Eleven emerging the fiscal deficit, while still spending problems of the national economy. As
would even say he should dismiss it as China) avoided a recession. These are markets that will dominate the global large amounts in infrastructures and I have written so often, there are dozens
a dead issue. There are more positive, Vietnam, Indonesia and the Philippines economy. Because of a very aggressive in improving the quality of public of tried and tested solutions to mass
direct and effective solutions to mass (the VIP countries of the ASEAN). A population control program in the last education. Time and again, we have poverty in the Philippines, solutions that
poverty and unemployment that are key explanation for the resilience of century, Thailand is in serious danger been told by international agencies, can easily generate consensus. Among
free from controversy. Although I these three countries is their large of growing old before becoming rich. both public and private, that 400 billion them are building farm-to-market roads,
respect economists and other experts domestic markets that partly insulated Despite its extraordinary success in pesos are being lost to corruption every irrigation systems and post-harvest
who strongly support population them from the depressive impact of a improving the productivity of its year. About half of this is due to those facilities; providing microcredit to the
management as a means of combating shrinking world economy. Even if they agricultural sector by investing wisely who cheat the Government by not poor; developing small and medium-
mass poverty, the truth is that there is also experienced large declines in their in countryside infrastructure, Thailand paying their taxes. This is private sector scale enterprises; putting up vocational
absolutely no consensus among leading exports like the tiger economies such as is still far from being a developed corruption, with the connivance of BIR and technical schools for the out-of-
economists both here and abroad about Singapore, Hong Kong, South Korea and country. But its aging population is officials. The other half is due to corrupt school youth; financing social housing
the correlation between population Taiwan (which all suffered a recession), now growing faster than its labor force, government officials in the Department for the poor; and teaming up with the
growth and poverty. There are Nobel their large populations served as strong threatening to engulf the country in a of Education, Department of Public private sector to assist returning OFWs
laureates and other leading international domestic markets for their business demographic winter too prematurely. Works, Department of Agriculture and in starting sustainable small businesses
and national economists on both sides enterprises, both large and small. In the To make matters worse, the aggressive others who channel public funds to in which they can invest their savings.
of the debate. The jury is still out about next ten to twenty years, the countries distribution of condoms in the last private pockets. By aggressively going Let us ignore the voices of those in the
whether or not promoting the use of with large populations such as China, century has made Thailand the worst after these corrupt people, as President new Congress who will try to resuscitate
artificial contraceptives could be a major India, Brazil, Indonesia and others will victim of HIV-AIDS in East Asia, with SBY of Indonesia has done in his first a dead horse, the very controversial RH
solution to mass poverty. be the engines of growth, eclipsing the some 1 million people infected with this five years, the next Administration Bill. For comment, my email address is
As a long-standing critic of population aging OECD countries who, with the dreaded disease. Being once considered will be able to significantly reduce the bvillegas@uap.edu.ph.

Advisory for Church Beat Reporters


By Archbishop Oscar V. Categories public (“napahiya”). Or other
Cruz Churchmen come in different similar unpleasant events or
sizes, shapes and forms, with encounters (“malas”).
different preferences and options Considering that Churchmen
THERE is no tenable reason as well as different personalities, are by and large sensitive—
at all why I am writing this dispositions and visions. But which is infinitely better than
short paper—except for the specifically on the matter of some nationally infamous
insignificant fact that I am media and concretely about extra-callous individuals—it
a Churchman of some kind being possible sources of Church takes some time and/or some
and that media practitioners news, it appears still possible subsequent pleasant experience
interview me every now and then to divide them into the three with media practitioners to
especially so when they find no following categories—certainly gradually make them amenable
© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media

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

‘Politics Is a Very Important Realm for


the Exercise of Charity’
(Address of Pope Benedict XVI to the members of the Pontifical Council for the Laity on the occasion of
its 24th Plenary Assembly held in Rome on May 21, 2010; with the theme, “Witnesses of Christ in the
Political Community.”)
C a r din a ls , V e n e r a t e d is “to give moral of Catholics in us before great and complex
Brothers in the Episcopate and judgment also Political Life, problems, and the social question
in the Priesthood, on things that Nov. 24, 2002). has become, at the same time, an
Dear Brothers and Sisters, pertain to the T a k i n g anthropological question. The
I welcome all of you with political order, up again the ideological paradigms have
joy, Members and Consultors, when this is expression collapsed that pretended, in the
participants in the 24th Plenary required by the o f m y recent past, to be the “scientific”
Assembly of the Pontifical fundamental predecessors, I answer to this question. The
Council for the Laity. I address a rights of the can also affirm spread of a confused cultural
cordial greeting to the president, person and the that politics is a relativism and of utilitarian
Cardinal Stanislaw Rylko, salvation of very important and hedonist individualism
thanking him for the courteous souls ... using realm for the weakens democracy and fosters
words he addressed to me, to the only all those exercise of the dominance of the strong
secretary, Bishop Josef Clemens, means that charity. The powers. A genuine political
and to all those present. conform to the latter asks wisdom must be recovered and
The composition itself of Gospel and Christians reinvigorated; to be exacting
your dicastery, where, together the good of for a strong in what refers to one’s own
with the pastors, a majority all, according commitment to competence; to make critical
of lay faithful work from the to the diversity the citizenry, use of the research of human
whole world and from the of the times for the sciences; to address reality in
most different situations and and situations” construction of all its aspects, going beyond
experiences, offers a significant (“Gaudium et a good life in all ideological reductionism
image of the organic community Spes,” 76). nations, as also or utopian pretension; to
that is the Church, whose The Church for an effective show oneself open to all true
common priesthood, proper of concentrates presence in the dialogue and collaboration,
the baptized faithful, and the particularly headquarters keeping in mind that politics
ordained priesthood, sink their on educating and programs is also a complex art of balance
roots in the one priesthood of the disciples of o f t h e between ideals and interests,
Christ, according to essentially Christ, so that, international but without ever forgetting that
different modalities, but ordered i n c r e a s i n gl y, community. the contribution of Christians is
one to the other. they will be Genuinely decisive only if the intelligence
Having arrived almost at wit nesse s of Christian of the faith becomes intelligence
the conclusion of the Year for his presence, politicians are of the reality, key of judgment
Priests, we feel ourselves even everywhere. necessary, but and of transformation. A
more grateful witnesses of the It is up to the even more so real “revolution of love” is
amazing and generous donation laity to show lay faithful that necessary.
and dedication of so many concretely in are witnesses The new generations have
men “conquered” by Christ personal and of Christ and before them great demands
and configured to him in the family life, in of the Gospel and challenges in their personal
ordained priesthood. Day after social, cultural in the civil and social life. Your dicastery
day, they accompany the path and political and political follows them with particular
of the “Christifideles Laici,” life, that the community. attention, above all through the
© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media

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.

‘A Flame ... That, in Burning, Brings Letter of the Archbishop


Forth the Better and Truer Part of Man’
(Text of the homily of Pope Benedict XVI at a mass celebrated in St. Peter’s Basilica for the feast of Pentecost; May 23, 2010)
of Manila to the CBCP
President on People
Power Statement
Your Excellency,
Greetings of Peace!
I write you as President and through you, the Bishops of the
Catholic Bishop’s Conference of the Philippines, to express
my regret over that ill fated interview at Manila Cathedral
www.neatnik2009.files.wordpress.com

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

The Eucharist in the Miracle of the Loaves


Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ (Luke 9:11-17), June 6, 2010
By Msgr. Lope C. Robre- His people in the Kingdom: “On the breaking of the bread which
dillo, SThD this mountain the Lord of hosts Jesus did in Bethsaida (9:11) is, as
will provide for all peoples a Luke recounts, continued in the
feast of rich food and choice practices of the early Church in the
IT has been noticed that there wines, juicy, rich food and pure, agape meals where sharing is the
is a growing popularity of choice wines” ( Isa 15:6). In the common feature (Acts 2:46) and in
perpetual Eucharistic adoration story that gives us a glimpse of the distribution of goods to those in
in the country. Probably there what the Kingdom is all about, need (Acts 4:35). These reflect the
is no diocese in the Philippines Jesus is the host, welcoming the responsibility given by Jesus to the
where one cannot find one or uninvited and intrusive crowd. apostles to nourish the Christian
two adoration chapels. And if In unfolding the meaning of the communities (Luke 9:13).
one asks those who frequently Kingdom, he cares for his people What is Luke’s point in linking
visit them, he will likely be told who suffer from hunger and the miracle with the Eucharist?
that they pour out their hearts want. The Kingdom of God is The evangelist seems to be saying
before the Lord, offering their thus not wholly spiritually; it is a that as part of the realization
thoughts, actions, asking favors community where all bodily and of the Kingdom of God, the
from Him, or simply enjoying the material needs are satisfied. Luke community of the reconstituted
nearness with Him. The devotion brings home this point by linking Israel, God’s people, is not only
is, of course, a praiseworthy the miracle to the Eucharist, being healed psychologically
custom, because the adoration of which is the microcosm of the and spiritually, but also being
the Sacred Host in these chapels Kingdom of God. nourished eucharistically. There
is firmly founded on the belief To be sure, the linkage between are three interconnected meanings
that the Lord is truly, really, the account of the miracle of the of Eucharistic feeding, but all of
and substantially present in it. loaves and the Eucharist can be them have something to do
However, it would be even more seen in the way Luke describes with what ought to happen in
praiseworthy if we, Christians, the feeding of the five thousand the community in which God’s
are led to a wider understanding and in the way he narrates the Kingdom is being realized. First
of what the Eucharist is all institution of the Eucharist. The of all, the life of the community
about. For example, we can be parallels are so obvious that one is is centered on the liturgical
taught that the Eucharist is an led to conclude that the Eucharistic celebration of the Eucharist, but
experience of the presence of liturgical formulation colored the this celebration cannot be isolated
the Risen Lord who wants us to account of the multiplication of from the ministry of feeding the
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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

Fr. Francis Ongkingco

WHATEVER Bishop Pat Alo

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

by the Eucharist and one’s faith in of the community is a sham. In

CBCPMonitor Name ________________________________­________________________


(Family Name) (Given Name) (Middle Name)
it. And third, the feeding is done
in the manner of the Eucharist: it
is really a breaking of one’s bread,
fact, the reason why Paul in the
Second Reading (1 Cor 11:23-
26) upbraids the Christians in
SUBSCRIPTION RATES not just an act of giving that one Corinth is that, in their agape
does simply because he no longer meals, the rich do not share
Mailing Address ______________________________________________ needs the resources. Rather, it is with the hungry poor (1 Cor
The CBCP Monitor is published ______________________________________________________________ a form of giving in which part of 11:21). Selfishness destroys
the giver dies, just as the Eucharist the community; it is an anti-
fortnightly by the CBCP Media Phone No.: ________ Fax No.: ________ E-mail: __________________ symbolizes the dying of Jesus. Kingdom value. It depreciates
Office, with editorial and busi- Mode of Payment For this reason, the miracle the significance of the Eucharistic
ness offices at 470 Gen. Luna of the loaves teaches us that celebration.
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the members. When resources and an embarrassment of the
1 Year Php 500.00 _______________________________ are shared, miracles happen. poor (11:22). The purpose of
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these values, the Christianity well as universal brotherhood.
B8 Entertainment CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 11
May 24 - June 6, 2010

Moral Assessment Technical Assessment

 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.

MAC en COLET Ni Bladimer Usi

Buhay Parokya Look for the images of St.


Paschal Baylon, St. Michael
Archangel, and the Sto. Niño.
(Illustration by Bladimer Usi)
Title: Here comes the Bride
Cast: Eugene Domingo, Tuesday Vargas, John Lapus,
Jaime Fabregas, Angelica Panganiban
Director: Chris Martinez
Screenwriter: Chris Martinez
Genre: Comedy
Distributor: Star Cinema Productions
Location: Philippines
Running Time: 110 mins.
Technical Assessment: 
Moral Assessment: 
CINEMA Rating: For age 13 and below with parental guid-
ance

Dumating na ang araw na pinakahihintay ni Stephanie


(Angelica Panganiban): ang kanyang kasal na gagawin sa isang
beach resort. Papunta na rin ang ilan sa kanyang mga bisita na
karamihan ay manggagaling ng Maynila. Sa kalagitnaan ng
biyahe, habang nagaganap ang partial solar eclipse ay biglang
maaaksidente si Stephanie pati na rin ang iba niyang mga bisita
sa lugar na tinatawag na Magnetic Hill. Magkakabungguan
ang kanilang mga sasakyan, mawawalan ng malay at sa
kanilang paggising ay nagkapalit-palit na ang kanilang mga
kaluluwa sa kanilang katawan. Si Stephanie ay nasa katawan
ng kanyang matandang dalagang ninang (Eugene Domingo)
at walang naniniwalang siya ito. Ang ninang naman niya ay
napunta sa katawan ng isang yaya (Tuesday Vargas). Si yaya
naman ay nasa katawan ng isang matandang mayaman (Jaime
Fabregas) na napunta naman ang kaluluwa sa katawan ng
binabaeng beautician na si Toffee (John Lapuz) na ngayon
ay nagsasaya dahil ang kaluluwa niya ang nasa katawan
ni Stephanie. Magkakagulo oras na malaman ng lahat ang
misteryoso nilang pagpapalitan ng kaluluwa.
Isang mahusay na pelikula ang Here Comes the Bride na
hindi lamang nagbigay ng todong aliw at saya kundi naghatid
din ng makabuluhang istorya. Naiiba at bago sa panlasa
ang tipo ng komedyang kumilos sa pelikula. Pakaaabangan
ang bawat eksena at talaga namang hahagalpak sa katatawa
ang manonood sa bawat linya at kakatwang sitwasyon. Sa
pagkakataong ito, mas nakakatawa ang mga sitwasyon at
ito ang tunay na tinatawanan at hindi ang mga komedyante
lamang. Hindi kinailangan ng mga tauhan na gawing katawa-
tawa ang mga sarili upang magbigay aliw. Lutang ang
kahusayan ng manunulat na siya ring nagdirehe ng pelikula.
Walang itulak kabigin ang husay ng mga nagsiganap na
naging doble ang hirap dahil kailangan din nilang gampanan
ang karakter ng bawat isa. Lahat sila ay naghatid ng laksang
kasiyahan at lumutang ang kanilang tunay na talino sa pag-
arte. Sana’y ito na ang maging batayan ng pelikulang komedya
sa Pilipinas.
Sa likod ng matinding katatawanan ay may malalim na
mensahe ang pelikula. Ito ay ang pagpapahalaga sa kabuuan
ng isang tao: ang kanyang katawan at kaluluwa. Bagama’t ang
kaluluwa ay tinuturing na mas mahalaga dahil ito ay nananatili
at hindi namamatay, dapat ding igalang at pahalagahan ang
katawang lupa. Sa lahat ng bagay ay dapat may kaisahan
ang katawan at kaluluwa lalo na sa mga desisyon sa buhay.
Sa maraming beses ay ninais ni Toffee na samantalahin ang
pagkakataon na siya ay nasa katawan ni Stephanie ngunit
maigting ang pagtutol ni Stephanie na gamitin ni Toffee ang
kanyang katawan sa masamang paraan. Nariyan din ang
matinding tukso sa lahat na manatili na lamang sa katawan
ng iba upang matakasan ang kani-kanilang problema. Para
bang ang mabuhay bilang ibang tao ang sagot sa kanilang mga
suliranin ngunit sa bandang huli’y napagtanto din nila na hindi
ito nararapat at kailangan nilang makabalik sa kani-kanilang
katawan sapagkat iyon ang tamang gawin. Pinahalagahan din
ng pelikula ang pananatiling dalisay ng katawan hanggang sa
pagpapakasal. May ilang nakababahalang eksena lamang na
kung saan ay may biglaang pagtatalik ang dalawang tauhan
ngunit nabawi naman ito sa kabuuang konteksto. Yun nga lang
ay nararapat pa ring gabayan ang mga batang manonood lalo na
sa ilang mga eksena na may patungkol sa maseselang relasyong
sekswal, at lalo’t higit sa isang nakaliligaw na pananaw na
maaari palang magkapalit-palit ang mga kaluluwa ng tao.
Sa Here Comes the Bride, ang pagpapalitan ng kaluluwa’y
nagmistulang isang laro, bagay na taliwas sa turo ni Kristo
at ng Simbahan.
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 11
May 24 - June 6, 2010
C1

The News Supplement of


Couples for Christ

CFC Joins the Nation in


Prayer for Peaceful Elections Among the initiatives were a nine-day, 12-hour
By Zeny Gimenez
prayer vigil that was held at the chapel of the Ar-
COUPLES for Christ participated zobispado in Intramuros, Manila. The prayer vigil
was a collaboration with Radio Veritas and the
actively in election initiatives orga- Media Office of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference
nized by the Church, joining hands of the Philippines and the following groups: Sang-
with other Catholic lay associations guniang LAIKO ng Pilipinas, Couples for Christ,
Knights of Columbus, AKKPKA-CANV (Aksiyon
in praying for clean, credible and Para sa Kapayapaan at Katarungan Center for Ac-
conclusive elections. tive Non-Violence), AMRSP (Association of Major

Religious Superiors in the Philippines), Simbahang to May 9.


Lingkod Bayan (SLB), Youth Pinoy, KAPANALIG Eucharistic Celebrations were also held at 6
Radio Community and Caritas Manila. AM on May 10, Election Day and at 12 noon on
The vigil, held from May 5 to 13, was divided May 13, the expected end of the vote counting.
into two-hour shifts, with each shift assigned to the Both Masses were held at the Manila Cathedral
collaborating associations. CFC took the 10 PM to and were concelebrated by CBCP-NASSA Chair-
12 midnight slot on all the nine days. man Bishop Broderick Pabillo, Kalookan Bishop
In addition to the prayer vigil, the convenor Deogracias Iniguez, Cubao Bishop Honesto Ong-
groups also committed to propagate the recita- tioco, Antipolo Auxiliary Bishop Francisco de Leon
tion of a special novena prayer for the intentions and CBCP-Episcopal Commission on Mass Media
of clean and honest elections. The novena was Chairman Bishop Bernardino Cortez.
aired daily over Radio Veritas and the online In addition to these initiatives, CFC members
facilities of the CBCP Media Office, and was were active in their respective parishes as volun-
Msgr. Pedro Quitorio III was the main celebrator at the concelebrated Mass on May 5 that opened the nine-day prayer vigil. recited in parishes, and government and pri- teers in the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible
He was assisted by, from left: Fr. Anton Pascual, Fr. Nick Lalog and Fr. Jun Dizon. vate offices nationwide for the period May 1 Voting (PPCRV).

Kids for Christ Go On Bishop of Nepal Opens 1st CFC


Nepal National Conference
A Faith Adventure!
By Nirva de la Cruz Classic KFC fun. This is pretty much the D-Bomb, he was able to realize his
THE Bishop of Nepal,
His Excellency Bishop
Anthony Sharma S.J. ,
delivered the wel-
what happened the next day, May 22. mistake and repent. Finally, Ben and
AN entire generation of young believers come address to the
Despite it being next to impossible for Addie and their parents asked everyone
went on an adventure of faith on the delegates of the first
kids to wake up early, KFCs woke up to believe that there is a bright future
weekend of May 21 – 23. The event was ever National Confer-
earlier than 5AM to be able to join the of hope for the world because God is
held simultaneously -- at Remy Field ence of Couples for
Kids’ Run before kicking off the athletic always with us. With God, KFC can
in Subic in Luzon, at Notre Dame in Christ Nepal with the
and creative competitions at 8AM. change the world!
Coronadal city in Mindanao and at the theme “Forward in
Until almost sundown, the kids had
University of Negros Oriental Recoletos Christ” (Phil 3:13-14)
friendly competitions – table tennis, Punung-puno sa Pagmamahal ni
in Bacolod city in Visayas. An estimated on April 10, 2010 at
volleyball, basketball, dance and gag, God!
10,000 KFCs gathered for these simul- the hall of the Church
among others. To cool off, the day On the last day of the IKV, a PSP
taneous CFC – Kids for Christ Island of the Assumption
ended with the trademark KFC fire hose stole the show. CFC missionary Nic
Kids’ Villages . parish in Lalitpur dis-
bath! It was so much fun that even the Escalona, who gave the final session
This is a departure trict near Kathmandu City.
“Real Treasure” talked
from the usual annual In his message, the good Bishop thanked the CFC Nepal members for orga-
about a different kind
KFC International nizing the conference. He recalled that in September 2009, CFC Nepal hosted
of PSP though. Kuya
Kids’ Village where the first ever South Asia Regional Conference in Godavari with the theme “Go
Nic said that there are
KFCs from all over and make disciples of all nations.” (Matt 28:19). He said that the themes of last
a lot of things in this
the Philippines and year’s regional meeting and this year’s national conference are both timely and
world that seem to be
the different countries relevant and are intertwined. For CFC Nepal, the theme “Forward in Christ”
real treasures like cell-
converge in a single is very appropriate during this particular stage of Nepal’s history as the coun-
phones, laptops, video
venue for the village. try’s parliament is drafting its constitution and religious freedom is one of the
games, but our real
Kirby Llaban, the KFC fundamental rights being enshrined in the constitution. This presents a great
treasure is Christ.
International Coor- opportunity for the Catholic Church in Nepal to move forward in sharing
Just to shake things
dinator explains that Christ in its many activities not only in the parishes but more importantly in
up, Nic asked the kids
the change can allow its various institutions that impact society.
who wanted to get a
more kids to attend Bishop Anthony further said that in the Nepali language, the name Couples
PSP. Everyone enthu-
the village, “This year, for Christ is actually translated as “Couples of Christ” which means that the
siastically replied ‘yes’!
we wanted to high- community is married to Christ and belongs to Christ. He is thankful that
Then he asked them to
light each island. The CFC Nepal is now established in three areas in Nepal, namely: Lalitpur-
raise their right hands
parents spent less this Kathmandu, Godavari and Pokhara and plans to go to eastern Nepal in
and put them over their
year with the reduced October of this year. He noted that CFC members are very active not only
hearts. “That’s where
registration of P800 in family-oriented spiritual activities but also in the parish in all these three
you will find your PSP,”
and lower transportation cost.” areas. He encouraged them to continue to be faithful to what Christ has
not-so young had to join in. he said for PSP stands for Punung-Puno
called them to do.
The IKV’s last night was also “Cham- Sa Pagmamahal ni God or Full of God’s
The Luzon Experience The Bishop blessed all the members of CFC Nepal and their families and
pions’ Night”, where those who won in Love. Kuya Nic said that while the trea-
At the Luzon IKV, on Friday, with promised that he will always pray for the success and protection of its activities
the creative competitions got to perform sures of this world can get discharged,
lights dimmed and a Congo jungle beat in renewing and strengthening families.
in front of everyone. After dinner, ses- run out of batteries or get lost, Christ will
announcing his arrival, Jep Calumag The conference followed the format of the “Fullness In Christ” conference.
sion 2 entitled ‘My Journey with my never leave us. And this PSP will always
gave session 1, entitled “Life is a Great The first talk titled “Just One thing” was given by Surbir Rai, one of the three
Family’ was given by Raymond Ibarri- be in our hearts.
Adventure”. The 1st session basically CFC Nepal Unit Heads with a sharing by Bhimsen Rai, a household head and
entos at the Luzon IKV. Kuya Raymond To show their love for the God who
talked about how kids can be heroes also a full time Catechist of the Assumption parish. Talk no. 2 “Forgetting
encouraged the kids to be blessings to loves us fully, the kids had the final
through simple things. The speaker What Lies Behind” was given by Mon Santiago, CFC South Asia Head, and
their families by studying well, being kids’ praise for the IKV. Jumping up
then called on kids who are all certified a couple from Godavari, Robal and Bhimkumari Ghale gave their sharing.
obedient and by helping at home. and down, the kids sent clouds of dust
Batang Bayani (Kid Hero) to share about Chirendra Satyal, also a CFC Nepal Unit Head, gave talk 3 “Straining Forward
For the 3rd session, Ben and Addie rising up to heaven, which was prob-
their decisions to save, to care for the In Hope” and his wife Caroline gave a sharing. The fourth talk “Pressing On
of the Luzon IKV took everyone on an ably the sweetest offering to God. To
environment and to help the poor. With the Mission”was given by Gyan Rai, CFC Nepal Chapter Head and his
adventure of faith to save their parents cap off the Luzon Island Kids’ Village,
In ending, Jep encouraged the kids sharer was Jyoti Neupane. Chris Ebreo, CFC Nepal Country Coordinator,
from Destructo. In the play that they Blair Jereza, the Luzon IKV event head,
to be heroes through simple, everyday delivered the last talk “Our Prize in Jesus Christ” followed by a sharing from
performed, Ben and Addie encoun- went on to announce the winners of
decisions like throwing candy wrap- Dolma from Godavari.
tered the Cave of Mystery, the Scroll of the previous day’s competitions. The
pers properly or by saving. With Kids Ganesh Rama and Augustine Lama, both household heads, led the morning
Life and the Ancient Compass in their Island Kids Villages ended with a bang
for Christ, life can indeed be a great and afternoon worship. The conference ended with a praise fest led by Mon
journey of trusting in God and praying as everyone said goodbye, looking
adventure of heroism! Santiago. The conference delegates expressed joy at being able to participate
to Mama Mary for help. Though in the forward to Singapore for the first truly
Fun, the KFC way! in the conference.
end, Destructo was able to detonate international IKV!
C2 Ugnayan CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 11
May 24 - June 6, 2010

By Joe Tale, CFC Chairman

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.

By Joe Yamamoto, CFC Director

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.

Know Your New Sector Heads


EIGHT new sector heads have been appointed in the Metro Manila Mission, replacing sector heads who have been holding their positions for more than four years or who have expressed a desire to focus
on other service.
The new sector heads are relatively young but all of them are idealistic and full of enthusiasm for the work that lies ahead of them.

ARNEL M. SANTOS RABBONI FRANCIS ARJONILLO ROMEO B. ALFARO


West B Central C South A
Arnel is a legal practitio- Rabboni, more popularly Romy and his wife Edit
ner, a partner in an Ortigas- known as Bong, and his wife graduated from the CLP in
based law office. His wife Carol graduated from the 1992, nine years into their
Bing (Mariter Delfin) is also a CLP in 1994, nine years after marriage, having wed in 1983.
lawyer, working as a Special walking down the aisle on They have four children.
Prosecutor at the Office of the December 8, 1985. They have Romy is a civil works con-
Ombudsman. Arnel got his four children, all boys. tractor and holds a degree in
law degree from the Ateneo Bong has an MBM from BS Civil Engineering. Edit,
while Bing graduated from the AIM and an Economics on the other hand, is a bank
San Sebastian College. degree from the De La Salle officer.
Arnel and Bing were mar- University. He is now the Romy is in charge of only
ried on July 10, 1997 and the Chief Risk Officer and Senior one area, Las Pinas, but it is a
13-year marriage has given Vice-President of China Bank. large area, being bounded by the cities of Paranaque, Manila, Munt-
them a son and a daughter. Carol, on the other hand, is inglupa. As a new sector head, Romy envisions the strengthening
They had been married only a year when they graduated from the with Metrobank. of the pastoral foundation of all the members, and a more aggres-
Christian Life Program in 1998. Bong has charge of the Makati, Pasay, Taguig areas, including sive evangelization program leading to the creation of three more
Arnel envisions West B sector to be, in his words, “a community some parts of Manila. He has a long-range, four-fold program for clusters within two years.
in prayer and in dynamic and vibrant worship of our God; one who the sector, namely: to inculcate in the sector the desire for personal Romy is also the Provincial Area Head of Zambales.
delights and hungers for God’s Word, while cognizant of its identity holiness, particularly in the leaders, so that they are more life-giving,
as an association of lay faithful, in the service of God, through the inspiring and caring through emphasis on daily prayer time (with
Mother Church. We must be a community of aggressive and creative focus on contemplative prayer), scripture reading, daily mass, sacra- JORGE ALONZO
evangelizers; a community of healing and compassion, especially ments, and commitment to one-on-one dialogues; to integrate the East B
in its work for total Christian liberation; and a community fully work with the poor into the members’ daily life; to strengthen the East B is another large
utilizing its charismatic gifts without losing sight of the higher gifts structures for better and more efficient information management sector, covering Antipolo,
of faith, hope and love as it does its mission to build the Church of and prompt decision-making; and to build sector finances to enable Marikina, San Mateo and
the Home and of the Poor.” marginalized members to participate in all CFC activities. Montalban. Jorge and wife
This, according to Arnel, now serves as the sector’s vision and Bong has other pastoral responsibilities, being the Provincial Marmi are the new sector
mission for the years ahead. Arnel is undaunted by the fact that Area Head of Iloilo and the regional coordinator for the Greater heads for this area, an assign-
he is also the Provincial Area Head of Apayao, an assignment that Mekong Area. ment that they both relish
entails long hours of travel and treks through difficult terrain to considering that they have
reach far-flung barrios of the province. sufficient time on their hands.
SENEN U. REYES Jorge, a chemical engineer,
has retired from his work at
North A Unilever and is currently a
STEVE R. MANINGAT Senen’s area of responsibil- consultant for Selecta.
West C ity crosses three areas – north Their three children are all
Steve and his wife Minnie Caloocan City, north Quezon grown, with the two boys now
(nee Martinez) were married City and part of San Jose del 26 and 18 and their daughter now 23. Jorge and Marmi got married
on June 11, 1983. Seven years Monte, Bulacan. He has what on September 26, 1981 and joined CFC in 1993.
later, in 1990, they graduated he calls “general” plans for
from the CLP. Today they are the sector, among them: to
proud parents to four boys enhance the evangelization
(Paolo, Tonico, Pacholo and
Luis).
efforts of the sector; to work
on the smooth transition of Sarah of the Modern Times
“A Muslim CFC”
Steve is a Management the work with the poor to the
graduate from the Colegio de ANCOP programs; to ensure
San Juan de Letran. He is a that all members are one
sugar trader and a distribu- with the Catholic Church by
tor of agricultural fertilizers strengthening participation By Lovely Enteria
and farm supplies. He is in the Sacraments, particularly marriage, as well as other Church
IN recent years, Muslims and Christians have found the will
also a member of the Board of Directors of the John 15 Founda- programs where CFC can help; to strengthen the commitment of
and the heart to come together despite differences in culture and
tion based in Los Angeles, California and the Letran Alumni members and leaders to the mission, vision and covenant of CFC
religion. Couples for Christ (CFC) and its work with the poor
Association. especially in the areas of unity, submission and financial steward-
program in Cotabato, Jolo, Basilan and Tawi-tawi have provided
West C covers the areas of Tandang Sora, Projects 6 and 8, Bago ship; and to encourage the active participation of all members in the
more opportunities for this coming together to happen.
Bantay, Baesa, Novaliches and Bagbag, Quezon City. As sector head, Build My House project of the community.
Tarhata Muk-
Steve seeks to focus on deepening the members’ personal relation- He and his wife Marie were married on May 3, 1986 and have three
sin is Muslim,
ship with Christ for a renewed family life and a way of life based children, 2 girls and 1 boy. They joined CFC in 1988.
born in Sta.
on Gospel values; to establish life-giving households as a source Senen is a Senior Management Specialist/Instructor at University
Catalina, Zam-
of spiritual growth; to review all PFO teaching tracks; to empower of Asia & the Pacific and holds a degree in BS Agricultural Engineer-
boanga City to
pastoral leaders and inculcate the value of shepherding; to reinforce ing as well as an MBA.
Gonsol Salip
pastoral connection, specifically, one-on-ones and household visita- Muksin and Pi-
tions; to establish strong presence and continuing relationship in lar Flores-Muk-
the parishes of the sector, to conduct more strategic CLP’s; to fully
implement all ANCOP programs; to inspire the sector members to
RAMON M. DE LEON sin. She grew
up in Lamitan,
participate fully and more actively in CFC activities, including the South B Basilan.
campaign to build CFC’s new home; to inculcate financial steward- Mon is both sector head of
Despite her
ship and generosity in the members; and to work for more effective South B, an area that covers
Muslim back-
and efficient governance. Paranaque and Muntinglupa,
ground and
and Provincial Area Head for
faith, she re-
Laguna. He and wife Pen-
members fre-
ny have been married since
ELIGIO C. LABOG, JR. 1974 (May 31) and have four
quenting the Catholic Church in her hometown and being
comfortable in the company of church leaders, including the
East A children.
parish priest. These visits, however, earned the ire of her father
The new sector head of East Having graduated from the
and led to her being punished on certain occasions.
A is more popularly known by CLP in 1990, Mon and Penny
Tarhata, or Tim as she is fondly called, experienced the pain of
his nickname Cholo. He and count 20 years of service to
losing her father when she was 10, when he left them for another
his wife Cristy (nee Pinzon) the Lord as great blessings,
woman whom he met while working in Malaysia. To ensure their
got married on January 2, 1981 and consider this new assign-
welfare, her mother distributed all her four daughters to different
and barely two years later, in ment as sector head as further
guardians back in Zamboanga City. When her circumstances
1983, joined CFC. They have opportunity to serve and to
permitted, she got all of them back in 1987 and they migrated
four children. use their talents. Mon envisions the work as focusing mainly on
to Ipil, Zamboanga del Sur (now Zamboanga Sibugay). It was
Cholo finished his BS Busi- revitalizing Church relations, implementing the Migrant Workers
here where they were baptized Christians.
ness Management from the Program, bringing old members back through creative approaches
Tim married Regino E. Balugay in civil rites in 1994 and they
Ateneo de Manila University such as a Revival Praisefest, and organizing ANCOP programs in
have a daughter, Kimberly. They came to know Couples for
and is now Group Head of the Business Lending Group of Metro- each cluster.
Christ through Kimberly who joined the Youth for Christ. In
politan Bank and Trust Company. Mon holds a degree in BS Industrial Engineering from the Univer-
December 2007, the couple attended the Christian Life Program.
As sector head, Cholo is committed to strengthen the sector lead- sity of the Philippines. He also attended the Advanced Executive
On the day after their dedication, their marriage was solemnized
ership, develop or raise up new ones, improve evangelization and Development Program of Cornell University. At present, he is the
in the Catholic Church.
inculcate in the members a tithing attitude. Vice-President for Human Resource Development of the Technologi-
Today, Tim and her family are joyfully and actively serving the
Cholo was formerly Provincial Area Head of Cavite but upon cal Institute of the Philippines.
Lord in CFC as Unit Leaders. Tim has gone through a circuitous
his appointment as sector head, chose to let go of his provincial Mon shares his insight as a newly assigned Sector Head: “Forget
journey but she considers her road well-traveled because she has
assignment to concentrate on what is undoubtedly a full-time and what lies behind, look forward with fullness, focus on Jesus, breathe
found the Lord and is now happily in His service.
awesome responsibility. Jesus, and get HIS work done!”
C4 Ugnayan CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 11
May 24 - June 6, 2010

Helping Heal Mother Nature


in Little Ways
By Vicky Alcanzare
GLOBAL warming and climate change are now affecting the country. Believing that God’s beautiful
creation is being threatened with the greenhouse phenomenon, God calls the community to remember
that stewardship of His creation is a Christian obligation. The Handmaids of the Lord has responded
to this call through the ANG GANDA MO! program.
Ang Ganda Mo! (which literally means “You are beautiful!”) aims to respond to this call by
moving the CFC Handmaids of the Lord members all over the world to wake up – to be aware, - organic farming
to be concerned and to respond to the call to fight global warming even in little ways at home, - container gardening
at work, in their barangays and in the CFC community. The program also aims to develop and - urban edible gardening and landscaping
implement simple but doable programs that will help reduce greenhouse gases that contribute to
global warming. 2) Continuation of the “No to Plastic” campaign where advocates are urged to:
• bring reusable bags everywhere and refuse plastic bags when shopping
Ang Ganda Mo! Activities • refuse use of styrofoam and plastic cups for coffee, water and juice
Members of CFC HOLD are known to be staunch advocates of environmental protection. The Oh! • use washable utensils in prayer meetings and parties
To Grow Program spearheaded by the ministry a few years back, and the thousands of trees planted by • use boxes/banana leaves for packed meals
HOLD members all over the country as a result of this program, is a testimony to HOLD’s enthusiasm • use ‘bayong’ (native woven bags) in going to market
towards this advocacy.
This time, through Ang Ganda Mo!, HOLD goes beyond just planting trees. The program will pur- 3) Actively practice Waste Segregation and encourage advocates to:
sue activities that promote the • attend seminars on waste segregation, waste recovery and recycling
“No to Plastic” campaign, waste • start waste segregation in their homes and in HOLD events
segregation, energy conservation, • “may pera sa basura” (there is money in waste) program
and promoting the planting of the
vegetable “malunggay” to foster 4) Encourage Energy Conservation by:
food self-sufficiency. • discussing energy conservation tips in households
Now on its second year, Ang • asking members to agree on energy conservation plans for their families
Ganda Mo! aims for the follow- • sharing in households re impact on the energy cost every month achieved through:
ing: - the use of compact fluorescent lights; this saves up to 75% compared to incandescent bulbs
- checking the energy conservation features of appliances before buying
1) Plant 1 million trees by year-
end 2010. The activities include 5) Build a malunggay generation (to promote food self-sufficiency)
promotion of the following: • Every HOLD member should aim to plant one malunggay tree in her backyard
• save and plant the seeds of the • Discover and appreciate the many uses of malunggay
fruits we eat • Organize and participate in malunggay festivals
• replant forest and flowering
trees These may seem like monumental undertakings, but HOLD is not worried. Because HOLD doesn’t
• organize nurseries plan to do this alone. Hopefully, every HOLD member’s enthusiasm would rub off on all the minis-
• organize Plant Lovers’ Clubs tries of CFC so that the entire community would be of one mind and heart in making our planet truly
to develop: beautiful for the next generation.

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.

It’s SHOUT-Time! On Fire for Christ!


By Fernando Academia By Venci Arcayan
TOP Youth for Christ (YFC) Metro Manila lead- and clergy relations but also to provide the youth CFC Spain held a mega
ers held simultaneous “Jam-packed” Summer the means for deeper reflection into our faith. retreat during the recent
House Training (SHOUT) activities in different Cris explained that “the SHOUT is a five to seven Labor Day holiday (May
venues last April 28-May 1, 2010. SHOUT is days in-house training given to top youth leaders 1 and 2) in Cercedilla,
meant to give the YFC leaders their directions within the area” for them to “gain skill, absorb Madrid.
for this year. nourishment, increase motivation, and influence The organizers ex-
“What was new this year was the content of each other with passion.” pected a maximum of 30
the SHOUT. A lot of the trainings given were in For five days, YFC leaders stayed in their respec- participants, considering
line with our 2010 direction. We also provided tive Shout houses. YFCs from Area 1 were housed that people usually go
the strategies for each direction,” said YFC Metro in Commonwealth, Area 2 in San Juan, Area 3 and on holiday during this
Manila head, Cris Lao. 4 in Cainta and Las Piñas respectively. weekend but 72 attend-
This year, priests were invited to give some of Cris explained further that the training was de- ed, more than double
the talks, designed not only to strengthen priest signed to be in-house “to ensure a more saturated the expectation. The
level of learning, [a] grounded participants came from
method of obtaining skills... Barcelona and Madrid.
[and] allow the youth to learn The service team came
interaction with fellow leaders, from Madrid while the Mission Team came all the way from Paris.
as well as increase passion in The venue was about an hour drive away from the capital of Spain, Madrid, in the mountain
work through everyday encour- range of Guadarrama. The conference was held in an old mansion owned by a religious order. Since
agement and motivation.” there were only 25 beds, and since the organizers did not expect that many people, the participants
Part of the directions relayed gamely slept on the floor in sleeping bags, on airbeds, on sofa cushions, on mattresses, on blankets.
in the SHOUTS was the imple- But the mood, was festive, with the participants proclaiming that this minor inconvenience actually
mentation of the three-year added to the feeling of being part of a big happy family.
formation track of YFC. The CFC members listened to talks given by Venci Arcayan, Loren Siccion and Bernie Matugas
The new formation pro- while the HOLD members were refreshed by the talks given by Amydee Arcayan and Del Di-
grams, Greeneration and maano.
Youth Power, were pioneered SFC members listened to talks given by Ogie Lumba, Diane Belgica and Ola Amon.
in the SHOUTS. Simultaneous- One thing was certain, the Spirit of the Lord was moving mightily in this mega retreat. The avail-
ly, “Shout-ers” of the different ability of the venue, the bus rented to ferry 52 of the participants from the meeting place in Plaza
areas visited La Mesa Dam, Castilla, Madrid, and from Barajas airport to pick up the arrivals from Paris and Barcelona, the food
Luneta Park, Caleruega for preparation, even the weather all contributed to a fruitful two-day retreat. Everybody had a really
their Greeneration and went good time spent in company with one another and with the Lord.
to GK Tribu, Little Sisters of The affair was closed with a Holy mass officiated by Fr. Rey Legayada, OFM, followed by a mini
Joe and Babylou Tale (top corner, right) visited a SHOUT venue and listened to the the Elderly, and Elsea Gaches praisefest.
youth share their experiences on mission. for their Youth Power.

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