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Monitor

CBCP

SEPTEMBER 17 - 30, VOL 22, NO. 19 CBCPMONITOR@AREOPAGUSCOMMUNICATIONS.COM


PROTAGONIST OF TRUTH, PROMOTER OF PEACE

UGNAYAN A3: NEWS A6: LOCAL NEWS B1: PASTORAL CONCERNS


THE NEWS SUPPLEMENT Message of His Holiness Pope Francis for the
Update way priests are chosen, accompanied, Prayer, sense of mission necessary
OF COUPLES FOR CHRIST World Mission Day 2018
pope tells new bishops for Catholic media — bishops

Justice for Itogon deaths


Church official urges gov’t to hold mining firm liable for Benguet landslide
By Roy Lagarde

K N O W N
environment
advocate Father
Edwin Gariguez
has called for
accountability over
the landslide that
claimed dozens
of lives in the
mountains of Itogon
in Benguet province.
Gariguez, Executive
Secretary of Caritas
Philippines, blamed no other
but the mining company that
supposedly left the area in a
poor state.
“We need to make mining
companies accountable.
Justice means reparation for
the damages,” Gariguez said.
As far as he is concerned, the
priest said that the Benguet
Corporation should be held
liable since its operations put
the community vulnerable to
landslides.
The site was among the 23
mining operations ordered
closed by former Department
of Environment and Natural
Resources Secretary Gina
Lopez for non-compliance
with environmental laws in
2017.
Justice / A7 Rescuers look for people who were buried by landslide in Brgy. Ucab in Itogon town, Benguet, caused by typhoon Ompong that barreled through Northern Luzon on September 15, 2018. CIRIACO SANTIAGO, CSSR

Catholic charities vow support for Sr. Fox asks Church’s support as
she faces deportation
Typhoon ‘Ompong’ rehab EMBATTLED Sister Patricia Fox
has asked the Catholic hierarchy
INTERNATIONAL Catholic to stand behind missionaries in
charities have vowed to support the prayers and support as she faces
Philippines as the country mounted deportation.
relief and rehabilitation efforts The Australian nun, whose
following the strong typhoon that missionary visa was no longer
hit several provinces. renewed by the Bureau of
In separate statements, several Immigration (BI), said her case
Caritas organizations have may affect other missionaries.
expressed readiness to provide “I think it is an issue that the
assistance to the country while Church has to look at and it needs
conveying condolences for lives lost to come out with a clear statement
during Typhoon Ompong. because it will affect all foreign
Caritas Internationalis has missionaries in the long term,”
immediately launched a fund- Fox said.
raising appeal to help finance more She said it has been a long
relief operations for the thousands time practice by all foreign
of families affected by the typhoon. missionaries in the Philippines
“Caritas assessment teams say to apply for a 10-year missionary
that people urgently need food. Following Typhoon Ompong, the local Caritas team packs the initial relief goods for distribution to visa, and is subject for renewal
Rehab / A6 families in the evacuation centers in Ilagan, Isabela. CAFOD Deportation / A6 Sr. Patricia Fox

Priest welcomes conviction of Palparan Francis summons world’s bishop presidents to Rome
A CATHOLIC priest has
welcomed the conviction of
for meeting on clergy abuse
a retired military general VATICAN— Pope Francis has of ‘protection of minors,’” of several ultra-right-wing
and two others over the called all of the presidents said García. “The meeting Catholic figures, “speaks for
disappearance of University of the world’s various with the pope will take place itself.”
of the Philippines students conferences of Catholic at the Vatican.” Francis is also set to meet
Karen Empeño and Sherlyn bishops to Rome for a Announcement of the first- Sept. 13 with the president
Cadapan in 2006. February meeting on clergy of-its-kind meeting comes as and vice-president of the U.S.
Fr. Edwin Gariguez, sexual abuse, in the first such Francis is under intense global bishops’ conference in a kind
executive secretary of the global summons by a pontiff. scrutiny for his handling of high-profile encounter
bishops’ National Secretariat Paloma García Ovejero, the of clergy sexual abuse after not seen since April 2002,
for Social Action (Nassa), vice director of the Vatican former Vatican ambassador when eight U.S. cardinals
Fr. Edwin Gariguez, Executive Secretary of the CBCP’s National Secretariat for Social
called the outcome as “justice Action. FILE PHOTO press office, announced the Archbishop Carlo Vigano were summoned to Rome to
served”. decision in a Sept. 12 briefing, released a document Aug. discuss revelations of abuse
“Palparan deserves a guilty The three were also ordered he could attest about the various saying the pontiff decided 26 alleging a systemic cover- with Pope John Paul II.
verdict for his monstrous to pay P100,000 for civil human rights violations and to make the move during up of allegations against Galveston-Houston
crime in killing and torturing indemnity and P200,000 for killings of Mindoro activists a meeting of his advisory now ex-cardinal Theodore Cardinal Daniel DiNardo,
those who are in progressive moral damages for each count. when Palparan was assigned Council of Cardinals and has McCarrick. president, and Los Angeles
movements working to Gariguez claimed that he in the area. already set the dates for the In his only remarks Archbishop Jose Gomez,
defend the rights of the was on “liquidation list” of “I have personally encounter as Feb. 21-24. specifically on the matter to vice-president, will be joined
poor,” Gariguez said. Palparan when the former investigated the spate “The Holy Father, hearing date, the pope said Viganò’s in their meeting by Boston
A regional trial court in military official was the of killings in Mindoro from the Council of Cardinals, document, which contains a Cardinal Sean O’Malley, a
Malolos sentenced Palparan, commander of the Army’s orchestrated by him,” he said. has decided to call a meeting host of unsubstantiated and member of the Council of
Lt. Col. Felipe Anotado and 204th Brigade in Mindoro “And I was also targetted with the presidents of the ideological claims and has Cardinals and the head of
Staff Sgt. Edgardo Osorio to from May 2001 to April 2003. by him for liquidation.” bishops’ conferences of the now been revealed to have Francis’ advisory commission
life imprisonment. The anti-mining priest said (CBCPNews) Catholic Church on the theme been drafted with the help Abuse / A7
A2 WORLD NEWS September 17 - 30, Vol 22, No. 19 CBCP Monitor

Vatican Briefing Algerian martyrs to be beatified


Pope expels Chilean priest found guilty of sex abuse
in December
A priest who was once hailed as a champion of human rights ORAN, Algeria— The Algerian Islamic Group of Algeria, and were
in Chile was expelled from the priesthood by Pope Francis bishops’ conference has announced killed in May. Their story was
after being found guilty of sexual abuse. The Archdiocese of that the beatification of Bishop Pierre dramatized in the 2010 French film Of
Santiago announced Sept. 15 that the pope dismissed Father Claverie and his 18 companions, who Gods and Men, which won the Grand
Cristian Precht from the clerical state with “no possibility of were martyred in the country between Prix at the Cannes Film Festival.
appeal.” The decree, sent by Cardinal Luis Ladaria, prefect 1994 and 1996, will be held Dec. 8. The prior, Christian de Chergé,
of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, confirmed The beatification will take place at sought peaceful dialogue with the
“the dispensation from all obligations united to the sacred the Shrine of Our Lady of the Holy Muslim population of the area and
ordination of Father Cristian Precht Banados.” Precht was Cross in Oran. provided employment, medical
the first vicar of the Archdiocese of Santiago’s Vicariate for The new blesseds “have been given attention, and education to the locals.
Solidarity, an office created by Blessed Paul VI in 1976 to aid to us as intercessors and models of Dom Christian accepted that the
victims who suffered human rights abuses during the 1973- the Christian life, of friendship and current political tensions and violent
1990 dictatorship of Gen. Augusto Pinochet. (Junno Arocho fraternity, of encounter and dialogue. militias were a threat to his life.
Esteves/CNS) May their example aid us in our life According to the Trappist order, he
today,” the Algerian bishops wrote. wrote a letter to his community and
Pope praises Capuchin order’s charism of authenticity, simplicity
“From Algeria, their beatification Algerian Bishop Pierre Claverie of Oran, pictured in family, citing the peace felt giving his
Capuchins are called to be men of peace, reconciliation an undated photo, and his driver were killed in 1996
will be for the Church and for the life to God.
and prayer and to be close to all people, Pope Francis told by a remote-controlled bomb left by the bishop's
world, an impetus and a call to residence. Bishop Claverie and 18 martyrs of Algeria, “If it should happen one day—and it
members of the order. “You are men who are able to resolve
build together a world of peace and including the seven Trappist monks of Tibhirine, will could be today—that I become a victim
conflicts, to make peace (using) that wisdom that comes be beatified Dec. 8 in Oran, the country's bishops
fraternity.” of the terrorism which now seems
precisely from being close” to people, particularly those most announced. CNS/KNA
In January Pope Francis had ready to engulf all the foreigners
in need, he told the group Sept. 14. The order was holding
authorized the Congregation for the Sister Angèle-Marie Littlejohn, living in Algeria, I would like my
its general chapter in Rome Aug. 27-Sept. 16. “You are men
Causes of Saints to recognize the Sister Bibiane Leclercq, Sister community, my Church and my family
of reconciliation,” particularly through the sacrament of
martyrdoms. Odette Prévost, Brother Luc Dochier, to remember that my life was given
penance, because of being able to listen, smile, not ask too
Claverie was a French Algerian, and Brother Christian de Chergé, Brother to God and to this country,” he said.
many questions and forgive, he said. He urged them to keep
the Bishop of Oran from 1981 until his Christophe Lebreton, Brother Michel After the death of the monks of
praying with simplicity, to be men of peace, “men of the
Aug. 1, 1996 martyrdom. He and his Fleury, Brother Bruno Lemarchand, Tibhirine, Bishop Claverie knew
people, men of reconciliation.” (Carol Glatz/CNS)
companions were killed during the Brother Célestin Ringeard, and his life was in serious danger. A
Algerian Civil War by Islamists. Brother Paul Favre-Miville. bomb exploded at the entrance of his
Pope says he hopes to visit Mozambique in 2019
In addition to Claverie, those being The best known of Claverie’s chancery Aug. 1, 1996, killing him and
The president of Mozambique announced that Pope Francis
beatified are: Brother Henri Vergès, companions are the seven monks an aide, Mohamed Bouchikhi.
plans to visit the country next year. As he was saying goodbye
Sister Paul-Hélène Saint-Raymond, of Tibhirine, who were kidnapped Sister Esther Paniagua Alonso
to the pope at the Vatican Sept. 14, President Filipe Nyusi
Sister Esther Paniagua Alonso, Sister from their Trappist priory in March and Sister Caridad Álvarez Martín
turned to the journalists present and said, “I would like to
Caridad Álvarez Martín, Fr. Jean 1996. They were kept as a bartering were Augustinian missionaries from
announce that next year, the pope is coming to Mozambique!”
Chevillard, Fr. Alain Dieulangard, Fr. chip to procure the release of several Spain who were killed Oct. 23, 1994
“If I’m still alive,” Pope Francis responded with a grin. The
Charles Deckers, Fr. Christian Chessel, imprisoned members of the Armed in Algiers. (CNA)
pope welcomed Nyusi in the library of the Apostolic Palace.
Accompanied by a Portuguese translator, the pope spoke
privately with the head of state for more than 30 minutes.
(Junno Arocho Esteves/CNS)
Mexican bishops publish ‘plan for building peace’
MEXICO CITY, Mexico— shelters spread throughout liberty for all confessions.” his message and point of
Pope urges continued aid to people in Syria, Iraq The Mexican bishops’ Mexico, working with The possibility of view. The Holy Father gives
The way Catholics and Catholic organizations listen and conference published prisoners, the care of establishing an ongoing important messages every
respond to pleas for help from people trapped in or forced Tuesday the “Catholic orphans, preserving green open channel for dialogue day.”
to flee war zones “is a source of light in the present and a Church’s Plan for Building spaces as common areas, with the government was The Mexican bishops’
seed of hope that will bear fruit in the future,” Pope Francis Peace,” in an effort to and working with the media also addressed. conference has agreed to
said. Meeting Sept. 14 with 150 representatives of Catholic “redouble efforts and united to get out messages that Additionally, the apostolic participate in these forums
agencies and others assisting victims of the wars in Syria action” against corruption foster peace in the country. nuncio Archbishop Franco intended to lead to a National
and Iraq, the pope said that each day he places before the and violence racking the The Mexican bishops also Coppola met with López Reconciliation Pact.
Lord “the sufferings and the needs of the churches and country. emphasized the importance Sept. 10. Afterwards, foreign In an Aug. 16 statement,
people of those beloved lands as well as those who work The goal of this plan, the of “collaboration with the minister designate Marcelo the bishops said proposals
to assist them. This is true. Every day.” The pope repeated bishops explained Sept. 11, is new administration elected Ebrard emphasized that one coming out of these
his plea to the international community to help find a way to “make known and assist in in our nation in 2018.” of the points in common with forums will provide input
to restore peace throughout Syria and to guarantee the the coordination of all peace To that end, the Mexican the incoming administration “to develop public policies
conditions that will allow the millions of people displaced building efforts” undertaken bishops met Sept. 4 with and the Catholic Church that will allow progress
by the fighting in Syria and Iraq to return home. (Cindy by both Catholic and civil president-elect Andres is “the search for peace in in overcoming violence,
Wooden/CNS) society organizations. Manuel López Obrador Mexico” as well as the effort building peace and national
The bishops stated that and had a “fraternal and to reduce inequality in the reconciliation.”
The meaning of life is love, pope says building peace in Mexico proactive” dialogue. country. The “Catholic Church’s
Today, more than ever, the world needs a revolution of will be a “pivotal axis” in In statement released Ebrard also noted that Plan for Building Peace”
tenderness, Pope Francis said. “Far from being reduced to their work of pastoral social Sept. 5, the bishops López “has met or will meet comes in the context of the
sentimentalism, tenderness is the first step in overcoming ministry. indicated “the main items” with almost all” the religious July 1 presidential elections
the withdrawal into oneself, to emerge from the self- The plan will thus promote covered in their meeting communities in Mexico “to in Mexico. López won with
centeredness that ruins human freedom,” he said Sept. 13. continuity in the work with López. invite them to participate 53 percent of the vote and
“God’s tenderness leads us to understand that love is the of caring for victims, the The first item was in the peace process,” his National Regeneration
meaning of life,” said the pope, speaking with people who “workshops for forgiveness the president-elect’s seeking to bring about “a Movement party obtained
were to take part in the conference, “Pope Francis’ Theology and reconciliation” will be “presentation of the conversation and common majorities in both the
of Tenderness,” in Assisi, Sept. 14-16. The Catholic faith reactivated, and strategies administration’s program” reflection on how we can Senate and Chamber of
“inextricably” binds together tenderness and theology, which will be developed to care for the country. achieve peace in Mexico.” Deputies.
is called “to communicate the concreteness of God (as) love,” for the victims of human The second item The next Mexican López campaigned
he said. A theology of tenderness, the pope said, expresses trafficking throughout the discussed at the meeting foreign minister also said against corruption and
“the beauty of feeling loved by God” and the beauty of feeling country. was “mutual concern for regarding the position of violence, but he or his party
the need to love others in God’s name. (Carol Glatz/CNS) The plan includes attention to the pressing the Vatican on the peace have also expressed support
pastoral accompaniment issues: poverty, migration, forums in Mexico “we are for abortion, gay marriage,
Algerian martyrs to be beatified in Algeria Dec. 8 and oversight for the work violence, corruption, not expecting from the and assisted suicide. (ACI
The beatification of 19 martyrs of Algeria, including the of the migrant centers and impunity, life and religious Holy Father more than Prensa)
seven Trappist monks of Tibhirine, will be celebrated Dec. 8
in Oran, Algeria, the country’s bishops announced. Cardinal
Angelo Becciu, prefect of the Congregation for Saints’ Causes,
Beijing bans online evangelization amid religious crackdown
will preside over the Mass and beatification rite for the six BEIJING, China— The Chinese church buildings, and the seizure of demand the Chinese regime stop and
women and 13 men who gave their lives “for the least, the government has increased measures property. remedy this dangerous course.”
sick and the men, women and young people of Algeria,” said to suppress religious belief and Other reports include accounts of In addition to the added measures
a statement published by the bishops Sept. 13. The 19 martyrs practice. New regulations, published Bibles being burned and of Christians against Chinese Christians, ethnic and
were killed between 1993 and 1996 while Algeria was locked on the government’s legal information being forced to sign statements religious Muslim communities have
in a 10-year-long armed conflict between government forces website on Sept. 10, make it illegal renouncing their faith. also faced heavy government action.
and extremist Islamic rebel groups; the conflict left tens of for religious services, prayer, or The recent escalation is part of In the northwestern province of
thousands of people dead. (Cindy Wooden/CNS) preaching to be broadcast online. a pattern of church closures and Xinjiang, the ethnic Turkic population
Under the new “Measures for the demolitionsacross China following has been subjected to a program
Christians without mercy live like worldly pagans, pope says management of religious information broad changes to government of mass internment and “political
Christians are not defined by their baptism but by whether on the Internet” those groups or religious policy in February, 2018. reeducation.” According to a report
they live their lives according to God’s command to love their churches wishing to maintain a Those changes, which tightened released by Human Rights Watch
enemies, Pope Francis said. While it may seem easier to speak religious website will need a restrictions on places of worship on Sept. 9, the government has
ill of an enemy, Christian logic goes in the opposite direction government-issued license certifying and banned children from attending introduced “systemic and increasingly
and follows “the folly of the cross,” the pope said in his homily that their content is politically religious services, also placed the pervasive” controls on daily life for
Sept. 13 during morning Mass at Domus Sanctae Marthae. acceptable. Online evangelization is state-sanctioned Chinese Patriotic Uighurs, Kazakhs, and other minority
“Only the merciful resemble God the father. ‘Be merciful, just strictly prohibited, as are materials Catholic Association under the direct communities resulting in “rampant”
as your father is merciful.’ This is the path, the path that goes aimed at converting readers. oversight of the Communist Party. human rights abuses.
against the spirit of the world,” he said. The pope reflected on Catechetical or instructive resources The new limitations on religious According to the report, local
the day’s Gospel reading from St. Luke, in which Jesus tells cannot be openly published online freedom and practice, and the government officials have created
his disciples to “love your enemies, do good to those who hate and must be restricted to internal introduction of the Sinicization policy, a network of “political education
you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat networks accessed with registered coincided with other constitutional camps” in which thousands of people
you.” (Junno Arocho Esteves/CNS) user names and passwords. reforms consolidating the position of have been detained. Chinese officials
The ban represents the latest President Xi. have said that the camps are to combat
Vatican confirms ongoing Sistine Chapel Choir finance inquiry development in President Xi Jinping’s Writing on the China Aid website, the spread of religious extremism.
The Vatican confirmed an ongoing investigation into policy of Sinicization, which places Dr. Bo Fu, the organization’s Two weeks ago, U.S. lawmakers
financial irregularities involving the directors of the Sistine national identity and communist political president, called the recent campaign from both parties called upon the
Chapel Choir. “Several months ago, Pope Francis authorized belief over religious faith. At the same a “massive clampdown” on religious Trump administration to consider
an investigation into the economic-administrative aspects time as the new rules were published, freedom by government officials, and imposing sanctions on China in
of the (Sistine Chapel) Choir. The investigation is still reports emerged of more churches being said it was a cause for serious concern. response to the detention and re-
in progress,” the Vatican press office said Sept. 12. The closed in several provinces. “Now that the Chinese Communist education program.
statement, the press office said, was in response to an According to China Aid, a U.S. based Party has started to burn Bibles Speaking to the New York Times,
article published by “Vatican Insider,” the online news organization supporting persecuted and coerce millions of believers Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) called the
supplement to the Italian newspaper La Stampa, regarding Christians, the first week of September in the Christian faith and other detention program “massive” in scale.
the investigation. According to the article, the Vatican was saw government officials in Henan religious minorities to even sign a “It involves not only intimidating
investigating the choir’s manager, Michelangelo Nardella, Province launch a wave of “escalating written pledge to renounce their basic people on political speech, but also a
and its director, Msgr. Massimo Palombella, on suspicion measures” against local Christians. religious beliefs, the international desire to strip people of their identity—
of money laundering, fraud and embezzlement. (Junno These have included the removal community should be alarmed and ethnic identity, religious identity—on
Arocho Esteves/CNS) and destruction of crosses from outraged at this blatant violation of a scale that I’m not sure we’ve seen in
individuals and families, raids on freedom of religion and belief and the modern era.” (CNA)
CBCP Monitor September 17 - 30, Vol 22, No. 19 NEWS FEATURES A3

Update way priests are chosen, accompanied,


pope tells new bishops
VATICAN— The best way to help through the choices the bishops
the Catholic Church, Pope Francis make and the way they live their
told new bishops, is not by pointing lives.
fingers and creating scapegoats, The fate of the church, this “tiny
but by working together doing flock,” the pope said, can be found
God’s will. in the cross and their fate is in God’s
Do not be embarrassed to talk hands.
to the faithful, to answer their Therefore, he told the bishops, do
questions, he told them, and pay not waste valuable energy “listing
“specific attention” to the priests failures and rubbing in bitterness,”
and seminaries in the diocese. letting their hearts shrivel and
“We cannot respond to the horizons narrow.
challenges we have regarding them “May Christ be your joy, the
without updating our processes Gospel be your nourishment. Keep
of selection, accompaniment, your gaze fixed only on the Lord
evaluation,” the pope said. Jesus,” he told them, so that as
However, he said, all efforts will they get used to Christ’s light, they
be fruitless if the responses do will know how seek it constantly,
not address “the spiritual abyss, even in the most diverse or humble
which, in many cases, permitted places.
scandalous weaknesses, if they do The bishops, he said, will find
not expose the existential vacuum Christ’s light in families where
that (the weaknesses) nurtured and the gift of life is cherished and
if they do not reveal why God was nurtured with “tenacious patience
made voiceless like this, hushed up and nameless generosity,” and
Pope Francis attends a meeting with new bishops from mission territories at the Vatican Sept. 8. The pope told them that the church needs bishops who
like this, removed like this from a promote unity, not “soloists singing their own tune or captains fighting personal battles.” CNS/VATICAN MEDIA where consecrated men and women
certain way of life as if he didn’t and other ministers of God silently
exist.” adults in the wake of ongoing standing upright, heads raised garments, delve into the weakness persevere, “oblivious to the fact that
The pope’s remarks came in revelations of abuse and its cover- toward the Lord because the church of others,” he said. often the good doesn’t make any
a lengthy speech Sept. 13 to 144 up by clergy, bishops and other is not ours but is God’s! He was here “It is necessary here to work noise, is not the topic of blogs nor
recently appointed bishops from church members in the United before us and will be here after us!” together and in communion,” the makes the front pages.”
around the world. It also came a States, Chile and other countries. “Each one of us,” he said, must pope said. But at the same time, Many men and women, he said,
day after he announced he was In his speech, the pope urged the humbly and deeply reflect on “what the bishops must remember that continue to believe, courageously
convening a global gathering new bishops not to let themselves be can be done to make more holy the authentic holiness is what God preach and offer mercy unafraid of
of the presidents of the world’s “tempted by stories of catastrophes face of the church, which we govern works in us, when—docile to his the wounds of the world, “the flesh
bishops’ conferences to discuss or prophesies of disasters, because in the name” of God. spirit—we return to the simple of Christ, always afflicted by sin and
the prevention of abuse and the what really matters is persevering, “It is useless just to point fingers joy of the Gospel” so that his often by the children of the church.”
protection of minors and vulnerable not letting love grow cold, but at others, create scapegoats, rend blessings may come to others (Carol Glatz/CNS)

Journalist-turned-missionary What is the pontifical secret?


finds happiness in evangelization VATICAN— Following release classified documents
the allegations made by without authorization.
ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia— went there where I found Archbishop Carlo Maria The seriousness of any
Belén Manrique had the mission the Lord had Viganò about the case violation of the secret by
a promising career in planned for me.” of Archbishop Theodore curial officials in relation
journalism, surrounded by Her first destination in McCarrick, many have called to McCarrick’s case would
good friends and family. But Ethiopia was the eastern for official Vatican files on the depend on the nature of the
at age 30, she left her life in desert, “where most people former cardinal to be released. material disclosed.
Spain behind to become a are Muslims.” While this may seem like the Fr. Pablo Gefaell
missionary in Ethiopia. “I realized it was necessary easiest way of assessing the Chamochín, a canon lawyer
“I always say that the for the Church to come there truth of Viganò’s claims, many and professor at the Pontifical
mission is never boring. It’s to bring the Gospel to those of the documents in question University of the Holy Cross
a thousand times better than people who don’t know could be protected by the in Rome, told CNA that if
what we could imagine. It’s [Christ],” she said. “Ethiopia “pontifical secret.” But what a person is judged to have
a life full of surprises if you is 50 percent Muslim and is that? acted in violation of pontifical
put yourself in the Lord’s 50 percent Christian, but The pontifical secret, The dome of St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican is framed by trees. Abuse accusations secrecy, he or she could be
against U.S. Archbishop Theodore E. McCarrick will be “examined in a regular canonical
hands,” she told ACI Prensa, most of them are Orthodox also sometimes called trial,” the Vatican press office announced July 28. Until then the former cardinal has subjected to punishment.
CNA’s Spanish-language Christians. The Catholic papal secrecy, is a rule of been ordered to pray and do penance. CNS/VATICAN MEDIA Pointing to the Secretariat
siste r ag e ncy, during a Church is less than 1 percent confidentiality protecting of State’s instruction,
recent visit to Rome. of the population.” sensitive information These include private dossiers are convicted), and even the Gefaell said, “if the
“I live in Addis Ababa, the “We’re building a regarding the governance and recommendations on confidentiality of the accusers, violation of pontifical
capital of Ethiopia, and my ‘missio ad gentes’ on the of the universal Church. It priests and bishops being who might be under the secrecy becomes known, a
mission is to be a witness to outskirts of Addis Ababa, is similar to the “classified” considered for promotion. authority of someone under penalty proportionate to the
the love of God there where in a neighborhood where or “confidential” status Controversially, the secret investigation. wrongdoing and the damage
he puts me, to build up the the Catholic Church has common in companies or also covers penal processes Concerning the case it causes could be inflicted by
Church because it’s very no presence. Besides the civil governments. concerning major crimes of Archbishop McCarrick, the competent dicastery.”
poor there. The Christian Orthodox, there are a lot of While the use of the English handled by the Congregation Vatican files could conceivably Canon law does not
community is very weak, Protestants,” she said. word “secret” in relation for the Doctrine of the Faith, contain materials covering all establish a specific penalty
and so it is very important to Manrique’s work consists to Church documents and including cases involving the of these categories. In addition for a violation of the secret. It
help the people know Jesus of helping out in the parishes, processes is often invoked sexual abuse of minors. to possible penal processes would be left to the discretion
Christ,” she explained. and talking to people. She dramatically, the term is The reasons why the and the circumstances of the competent Vatican
Despite worldly success, stressed that success in actually taken from the Latin secret is applied to different surrounding his various authority to decide what the
“the life I led did not fulfill her mission is “not about word “secreto,” which simply materials depend upon promotions - including what appropriate punishment
me,” she said. “The plan God gaining followers but of means “confidential.” the circumstances. Private was known about his behavior would be for a particular
had for me was different, being witnesses and making According to the “Secreta communications between at different times - records violation, Gefaell clarified.
and when I discovered that Jesus Christ known.” continere,” a canonical what are effectively papal could also concern any work Regarding the potential
what he wanted was for me “Not long ago a boy asked instruction issued by the embassies and the Vatican’s undertaken by McCarrick as a release of any documents
to bring the love of God to me: ‘Can you be a Catholic Secretariat of State in 1974, Secretariat of State are papal envoy in different places relating to Archbishop
people who don’t know him, without being a nun or a those bound by the pontifical protected by confidentiality including, for example, China. McCarrick, potentially
I did not doubt God’s call priest’? Most of the Catholics secret take an oath at the in the same way, and for As the name “pontifical held either at the apostolic
– it wasn’t hard for me to that have come to Ethiopia beginning of their service in the same reasons, that other secret” implies, it is only nunciature in Washington,
leave my job as a journalist are nuns and priests, and so the Curia or the diplomatic diplomatic correspondence the pope—or someone D.C. or at the Congregation
or leave Madrid.” they have that thought.” corps, promising to “in no is kept classified. Files empowered by him—who for Bishops in Rome, it is
Manrique belongs to the She added that she often way, under any pretext, pertaining to bishops or can dispense from it. Those Pope Francis alone who
Neocatechumenal Way, an encounters Ethiopians who whether of greater good, or prospective bishops are hoping for curial officials to could order their effective
ecclesial movement that want to leave their country, of very urgent and very grave handled in much the same act on their own initiative, declassification.
focuses on post-baptismal either to flee violence or reason,” to break the secret. manner as confidential even for the supposed good Until the pope decides
adult formation. She said because they have seen an Materials covered by the personnel matters are of the Church, are likely otherwise, it is unlikely
the movement helped her idealized version of Europe pontifical secret include treated in companies or other to be disappointed. If they that Vatican officials bound
grow in faith. on television, and believe diplomatic communications institutions. were to do so, they could by oath to observe the
“I was able to encounter life there to be luxurious and made between the Vatican’s In judicial cases, the secret find themselves subjected to secret will be making any
Jesus Christ and realize worry-free. nunciatures around the is meant to protect the privacy disciplinary measures in the new documents available.
that he’s the only one who “Every day, there’s world, but also apply to of victims, the good name of same way that any government (Hannah Brockhaus/
gives happiness to man. I Evangelization / A7 a range of other subjects. the accused (at least until they official might if they were to CNA)

This 87-year-old woman feeds the homeless in Chile every week


SANTIAGO, Chile— Every the homeless people on the streets John Paul II and canonized in 2005 he treated them with such love do more to help the homeless people
Wednesday night, 87-year-old Elena of Santiago know her and greet by Pope Benedict XVI. and affection that it still moves she encounters on the streets.
Donaire goes out onto the streets her by the affectionate title “Dear Before Hurtado died in 1952, me to this day to remember those “I know I am going home to a
of Santiago, Chile, to meet the Mama.” The other volunteers call Donaire said she had “promised moments. I have never met a person house, I’m going to get a good
homeless and attend to their needs. her by the nickname “Grandma.” him to continue serving the people as good and committed as he was.” night’s sleep, and I see that these
For 40 years, Donaire has taken In an interview with the just as he did.” For Donaire, who lives alone in people aren’t going to,” she said.
part in the “Street Route” of the Archdiocese of Santiago’s “That’s the biggest reason I have to a small house and works selling Still, she stressed the importance
Hogar de Cristo (Christ’s Home), communications office, Donaire continue helping – it’s a joy for me,” clothes in a street market, “It doesn’t of doing what one can to help those
an organization that includes explained that her mission has its Donaire said. “I am going out on the matter if it’s raining, or cold, there in need.
numerous outreach programs and origin in her friendship with Saint street until he calls me from above. I are no excuses for not going out on “Help your brothers on the
facilities to help the poor. Alberto Hurtado. know that if he were alive, he would Wednesdays.” street,” she encouraged. “Many
Donaire starts her evening by Known in Chile as Padre Hurtado, be here on the street helping along “I anxiously wait for [the other times, it’s enough just to talk with
fixing sandwiches, boiling water and the Jesuit priest, author and with me, I would like to be at his side.” volunteers] to come and pick me them, to listen to them, to find out
organizing the warm clothing that she lawyer founded Christ’s Home, Remembering the Jesuit saint, up for the simple reason that I want how they are doing. I assure you
will give to the people she encounters a network of homeless shelters Donaire said that “he didn’t smile to be with these people. I like them that [they] feel happier just to share
on the streets. When everything is that also included trade schools, a lot, but when it was an occasion and they make me happy. I know their troubles with someone. We all
ready, the volunteers leave in their van. rehabilitation centers, and other for smiling, he was always there their stories and they tell me them.” have commitments or things to do,
Donaire is often the first to get out facilities to serve the poor. with us. He enjoyed sharing with She acknowledged that she but making an effort doesn’t cost
of the van to begin serving. Many of He was beatified in 1994 by Pope the people, especially the children, sometimes feels bad that she cannot anything.” (ACI Prensa)
A4 OPINION September 17 - 30, Vol 22, No. 19 CBCP Monitor

EDITORIAL

The bigger tragedy is government’s


‘love’ for miners
WHILE the mayor of Itugon municipality in Benguet continues
to bewail the obstinacy of the poor small-scale miners that
did not heed his repeated calls for them to evacuate before
the onslaught of typhoon Ompong, the tragedy that befell on
the locality can be traced further to corporate greed and the
government’s penchant to favor more the mining companies
rather than social justice and the safety of the its constituents.
And, of course, there is no mistaking that favoring mining
corporations is not really about the love of the government
for investors that supposedly will prop up national economy—
although at first blush it may seem like it—than about the
corruption or the gigantic lobby money that the mining
industry lavishes on government functionaries. In rhetorics,

ILLUSTRATION BY BLADIMER USI


mining companies are viewed as heroes that bring in so much
economic progress. In statistics, however, that’s a myth
because what mining companies contribute to the national
coffers is negligible. Given is the anomaly that most of the
taxable mining funds are stashed at the pockets of politicians.
On February 2, 2017, then Department of Environment and
Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Gina Lopez, ordered the
closure of 23 metallic mines in the country. It included the
Benguet Corporation in Itogon, Benguet. Lopez was popularly
hailed and perceived to be a true environment advocate.
Fighting the Panaghoy
People loved her but the Commission on Appointments that
trashed her appointment in May 2017 did not. President wrong battle Bp. Broderick Pabillo
Rodrigo Duterte whose “truth” resides only in his lips, could
have sustained the cause of Lopez. But when the 23 mining
companies that were ordered closed appealed before the
Office of the President, the closure order was not carried out. POPE Francis brought out the clarion into bars with the flimsy reason that his waging. How blind and numb leaders
Environment advocates believe that Benguet Corporation call in his encyclical Laudato Si: Hear amnesty given more years ago is invalid, can become. And blind too are those
and the DENR should be held liable for the death of at least the cry of the earth and the cry of the accusing people here and there of who defend such leaders. Instead of
20 small-scale miners and 57 others missing in Itogon, poor. These cries are loud and clear destabilization moves! The government using their influence to call on their
Benguet due to a landslide brought about by the recent in these days. The cry of the poor: the is in total disconnect with the people. It beloved leader to see the dangers the
typhoon Ompong. “May accountability ang Benguet Mining price of rice is getting out of hand, does not offer any solution to the high people are now facing, they continue
Corporation because there are documents of reports on the inflation is eating up the poor’s meager inflation except to blame others, that to cheer him up and defend him in his
ground na ‘yung kumpanya ay may kasunduan with small-scale earnings, jobs are very much wanting. this is just false news (There is really wrong directions. They too are blindly
miners. Binebenta nila ‘yung mga nakukuha nila sa Benguet They are groaning. The lines in the no lack of supply of rice, they claim in misguided.
Corporation. That is why this incident should be further feeding centers run by charitable spite of the long queues of people buying Let us come together to address
investigated,” so said Gerry Arances, the executive director institutions are getting longer. The rice!), that the opposition is hoarding the cry of the poor and the cry of
of the Center for Energy, Ecology, and Development (CEED). cry of the earth: several times in the the rice, etc. the earth. They are related to each
As with so many ills the country is suffering today, the buck past three weeks classes have been What preparations is the government other. Destruction of our natural
stops at the palace. cancelled in several cities because of doing for the impending typhoon? resources affects the poor badly and
floods. Unfinished road constructions Nada! Yes, government institutions directly. Now should be the time for
The priest as mediator and plastic pollution in our streets and are being mobilized to court martial the government to mitigate the impact
WE have to understand well the role of a mediator. He is like sewage systems prevent the water from Trillanes, although he is now a civilian, of the coming typhoon. Concrete
a bridge that connects two ends. A perfect mediator is one flowing out. Now there is a threat of to get a warrant of arrest for the senator, measures should be done so that the
where he is both in the one end as in the other. He just cannot another strong typhoon. What is being to apprehend the vocal critic, and now poor can get the basic necessities at the
be in one end but not in the other, though he may orient or down to prepare for it? mobilizing the communications offices prices that they can afford, especially
dispose himself to the other without reaching it. The poor and the earth are crying to sound the alarm of destabilization. when the typhoon Ompong comes. We
Christ is a mediator between God and man. In fact, he is out loudly. But where is the attention It really appears that the government call on our government leaders to fight
the sole perfect mediator because he is both God and man. St. of our government? Buying arms from is fighting the wrong enemy, not the the battle that concerns the people –
Paul testified to this truth of our faith. He said, “There is one Israel, ordering Sen Trillanes to be put battle that the people on the ground are not their imagined enemies!
God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ
Jesus…” (1 Tim 2,5) Christ is the perfect mediator because
Are we really heeding the
he is not only God but is also man. And he is not only man,
but also God. As the Athanasian Creed would put it, Christ is By the Roadside cry of the poor and
“perfect God and perfect man.” Fr. Eutiquio ‘Euly’ Belizar, Jr. SThD
This truth of our faith is, of course, a mystery. We cannot
fully understand it. But we believe it because Christ said so
the cry of the earth?
and this is what the Church now teaches. “I and the Father are
one,” Christ said at one time, pointing to his divinity. (Jn 10,30) “I will point to the intimate local mayor strongly insists couple of urgent questions: attitudes by the poor who
As to his humanity, St. Paul said these relevant words: relationship between the that the communities in the What went wrong here? Is eventually fell victims to the
“When the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a poor and the fragility of the area had been forewarned disaster preparedness only horrific tragedy have not been
woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, planet, that the conviction and urged to evacuate. Many, a matter of doing everything adequately addressed. These
that we might receive the full rights of sons.” (Gal 4,4-5) Only that everything in this according to him, chose to to achieve zero casualty from attitudes speak volumes of
a man could be “born under the law.” This little explanation world is connected...” (Pope stay saying they had survived forewarning to evacuating the cry of the poor. They
about the mediator is important and relevant because we, as Francis, Laudato Si, no. 16) strong typhoons before and to relief-distributing to decided to stay, with their
human persons, patterned after Christ, have to learn the ways feel safe in their bunkers, reporting on the wider view means of survival close to
of a mediator. Of course, of all men and women, the priests BACK to the present. Most of huts, chapel (a UCCP not a of the results of all combined them rather than survive with
are especially meant to be mediators, because they are at the the casualties from Typhoon Catholic place of worship) efforts to meet the desired the possibility of losing them
forefront of the task of reconciling men with God. Ompong or Mangkhut, and houses. Now, aside objective(s)? Such an effort and thus also be condemned
With the sacrament of Holy Orders, they are configured to particularly in Itugon, from the mounting count is admittedly multi-layered, to virtual death. That Itugon
Christ, head of the Church, and participate in Christ’s task of Benguet, are from very poor of deaths from a mountain organized and serious. used to be a rice granary of
mediation in a very intimate way. That is why priests, of all communities that depend on landslide, there are also an Unfortunately, at least in the the province, at one time
men and women, have to be particularly adept in this art of small-scale mining to make estimated 65 persons still case of Itugon it hit wide off topping local municipalities
mediation. While they are already sacramentally configured ends meet. But, instead, missing, feared to be buried the mark. in rice production but later
to Christ as head of the Church, they have the special, albeit many have met their end. The alive under soil debris, and a It is clear that human By the Roadside / A6
very demanding, duty of truly assuming the mind and heart
of Christ. If everyone is meant to be “another Christ,” the
priests have to be particularly so. They have to lead the way.
This can mean many things. Their mind and heart should be
Let’s always purify Candidly Speaking
both on heaven even as they are on earth. They should exude the
fragrance of heaven even as they can also have the odor of earth,
our intentions Fr. Roy Cimagala
just like what Pope Francis said about priests as shepherds—they
have to have the smell of the sheep which they tend. Like Christ,
they have to identify closely both with God and with men. Like
Christ, they have to pray constantly so as to be always in touch IN anything that we do, let’s see to it already going against common sense he attacks.
with God whose will and ways they have to follow. that our intentions are pure. That is and the barest of delicadeza. We should never separate ourselves
Let’s remember that Christ said: “I have come down from to say, that we have to be motivated For this self-delusion to take place, from Christ. For this, we should follow
heaven, not to do my will, but to do the will of him who sent always by love for God and neighbor. all that is needed is a clever and what St. Paul advised, “Rejoice always,
me.” (Jn 6,38) Like Christ, priests have to mix well with the And by love, we mean that we follow manipulative mind, often using the pray without ceasing, give thanks in all
people, adapting themselves to them all the way to assuming God’s commandments as clearly sophistry of the devil himself. Let’s circumstances, for this is the will of God
their sins without committing sin. articulated by Christ himself: “If you remember that in tempting Christ, the in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thes 5,16-18)
Just imagine what practical considerations can be made love me, keep my commandments.” devil even cited Scriptural passages to This praying without ceasing can
from this ideal of priests as mediators like Christ! (Jn 14,15) justify his temptations. (cfr. Mt 4,1-11) always be done. All that is needed is
And the epitome of this obedience to But Christ corrected him by giving him to exercise our faith. It is to live our

Monitor
God’s commandments is Christ himself, the proper interpretation and context of faith which can go beyond words. It is
CBCP who said: “I have come down from those passages. a matter of attitude that is first of all a
heaven, not to do my own will, but to do If we are not clearly with Christ, spirit before it is shown in words and
the will of him who sent me.” (Jn 6,38) there is no way but to succumb to the deeds.
The secret therefore of love, which is tricks of the devil who is the father of We should not worry about the
PROTAGONIST OF TRUTH, PROMOTER OF PEACE obeying God’s will, is to have the mind lies. (cfr. Jn 8,44) He is so clever and practicability of prayer. We already
and heart of Christ. That is to say, to be manipulative, using every trick in the have been given the different forms
Pedro Quitorio ‘another Christ’ which we can always book and beyond, that if we engage him of prayer—vocal, liturgical, mental,
Editor-in-Chief attain because Christ himself has given in a dialogue, we would surely lose. meditative, contemplative, etc. We have
us all the means. At least this is also what Pope Francis enough doctrine of our faith that would
Nirva’ana E. Delacruz Ron Ramos, Sky Ortigas We should be most careful warned us about a few months ago. so enable us to have a good picture
Associate Editor Design Artists nowadays because it is now easy to He said that the devil is like a dying of God as to develop an intimate
stray from God’s commandments crocodile, who hunters advise not to relationship with him. We have the
Roy Lagarde Mercedita Juanite and feel convinced that we are still approach because it can still strike you sacraments that make Christ present
News Editor Circulation Manager
ok. With our man-made laws that are with its tail. He is dangerous and his and the merits of his redemptive work
Christine Paguirigan Marcelita Dominguez supposed to reflect the spirit of God’s proposals are all lies. applied to us.
Managing Editor Comptroller will and ways but often fail, at least The Pope also said that the devil We have the precious legacies of saints
partially if not completely, it is now knows how to seduce us in our vanity and the living testimonies of many holy
The CBCP Monitor is published fortnightly by the easy for us to hide and justify such and curiosity. The devil can use lofty men and women even at present to edify
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at 3rd Floor, CBCP Compound, 470 General Luna anomalies as greed, pride, vanity, words that would promise us things like and inspire us. There’s no excuse that we
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ISSN 1908-2940. We can be so self-deluded that we practicality, popularity and the like. and heart so that we can always have
would not know anymore that we are Where our weakness is, that’s where purity of intentions in all our actions.
CBCP Monitor September 17 - 30, Vol 22, No. 19 A5

The View from the Mountain Servant-leadership


Fr. Amado L. Picardal, CSsR, STD
Collection Box
Fr. Jerome R. Secillano, MPA

THE theme of the Year of the Clergy and you a model to follow so that as I have top position and is served by those
Consecrated Life focuses on “Servant-
Leadership.” This theme is based
done for you, you should also do.” (John
13:14-15)
below him. Thus, leadership is viewed
from a vertical perspective – top to
To be saints in
on Vatican II that emphasis that the
clergy should “exercise leadership
This text sums up what Jesus’ life
signify and what his death on the cross
bottom – like a pyramid. This is not how
Jesus regards authority and leadership. the modern times
and authority in the spirit of service the following day mean. Jesus’ washing Christ the King is Jesus the servant.
POPE Francis, in a new pastoral exhortation called
following the example of Christ who the feet of the disciples must have been He came to serve and not to be served.
“Gaudete et Exsultate” (GE), claims that sainthood is not
came not to be served but to serve and a shocking and confusing act for the The ultimate symbol is the washing
something unattainable. Anybody, in fact, has a chance
lay down his life for his sheep.” (Lumen disciples. It is a demeaning act. Only of the feet. He lowered himself and
to be a saint provided he lives in union with Christ and
Gentium 27) servants do this. Jesus’ washing of the knelt to wash the feet of his disciples.
performs his duties with utmost charity. “We are all called
There are several texts in the Gospels feet is a symbolic act to dramatize his To be a humble servant. This is what
to be holy by living our lives with love and by bearing
where Jesus’ teaching on leadership can view of leadership – humble and loving servant-leadership is all about. A leader
witness in everything we do, wherever we find ourselves”,
be found. The first is from the Gospel of service. This should be the underlying should not look at himself as above the
says the document (GE, 14).
Matthew (20:25-28) which has parallels motivation in the exercise of leadership. rest, occupying the dizzy heights and
When declaring saints, the Church, through the processes
in other Gospels: Jesus presents himself as the model and feeling lonely at the top. To occupy a
of beatification and canonization, normally recognize
“But Jesus summoned them and said, asks his disciples to follow his example. leadership role is not to ascend to a
the signs of heroic virtue, the sacrifice of one’s life in
you know that the rulers of the Gentiles St. Paul in the letter to the Philippians high, exalted position but to be humble
martyrdom, and in certain cases when life is constantly
lord it over them, and the great ones also highlights this: and lower oneself. It is a descent, not
offered for others, even until death.
make their authority over them felt. But “If there is encouragement in Christ, an ascent, for a servant is not higher
Calling it the “middle class of holiness”, the Pope
it shall not be so among you. Rather, any solace in love, any participation in than those he serves. Thus, like Jesus
underscores the holiness present in the ordinariness
whoever wishes to be great among you the Spirit, any compassion and mercy, this requires kenosis: self-emptying.
of things. He says, “I like to contemplate the holiness
shall be your servant; whoever wishes to complete my joy by being of the same This requires emptying oneself of
present in the patience of God’s people: in those parents
be first among you shall be your slave. mind, with the same love, united in pride and superiority complex—of
who raise their children with immense love, in those men
Just so, the Son of Man did not come to heart, thinking one thing. Do nothing thinking of oneself as god-like. This
and women who work hard to support their families, in
be served but to serve and to give his life out of selfishness or out of vainglory; also requires emptying oneself of the
the sick, in elderly religious who never lose their smile. In
for the ransom of many.” rather, humbly regard others as more drive to dominate and hold on to the
their daily perseverance I see the holiness of the Church
In this text, Jesus criticizes the usual important than yourselves, each looking trappings of power, pomp and privilege,
militant. Very often it is a holiness found in our next-door
way of exercising leadership which is not for his own interests, but everyone of selfishness and self-centeredness.
neighbors, those who, living in our midst, reflect God’s
the use of authority motivated by the for those of others. Have among you the Humble and loving service—this is what
presence (GE, 7).
drive for power, prestige and privilege. same attitude that is also yours in Christ is required of a servant-leader. This is
Are you called to the consecrated life? Be holy by living
Jesus offers another way of exercising Jesus, who, though he was in the form what is means to be a good shepherd.
out your commitment with joy. Are you married? Be holy by
leadership that he prescribed to his of God, did not regard equality with The emphasis on servant-leadership
loving and caring for your husband or wife, as Christ does
disciples—humble service. He refers God something to be grasped. Rather, does away with the sense of entitlement,
for the Church. Do you work for a living? Be holy by laboring
himself as the model: “the Son of he emptied himself taking the form of a privilege and prestige that is often
with integrity and skill in the service of your brothers
Man did not come to be served but to servant, coming in human likeness and associated with the position of leadership
and sisters. Are you a parent or grandparent? Be holy by
serve.” At the heart of Jesus’ teaching found human appearance, he humbled and authority. The leader should not
patiently teaching the little ones how to follow Jesus. Are
of leadership is servanthood—servant- himself, becoming obedient to death, expect or demand special treatment. The
you in a position of authority? Be holy by working for the
leadership. This is manifested in a even death on the cross.” (Phil 2:1-8) leader must always remember that, like
common good and renouncing personal gain (GE, 14).
symbolic way at the last supper when he Society tends to regard leadership Christ, he is sent to serve and not to be
The document further says that, “Christ wants us to be
washed that feet of his disciples. After as a high position. The leader is placed served. As servant, he is not greater or
saints and not to settle for a bland and mediocre existence
doing this he says: on a pedestal. He looks down on his higher than those he serves. Leadership
(GE, 1).
“If I, therefore, the master and teacher followers who look up to him. He looks is not a position of honor or glory
In proposing the call to holiness in a practical way for our
have washed your feet, you ought to at those below him as his subordinates but of humble service – a position of
own time, with all its risks, challenges and opportunities,
wash one another’s feet. I have given who should obey him. He occupies the The View from the Mountain / A7
the Pope warns about two false forms of holiness that can
lead people astray, namely: Gnosticism and Pelagianism.
Be ready when Gnosticism presumes “a purely subjective faith whose
Duc in Altum only interest is a certain experience or a set of ideas and bits
super typhoon strikes Atty. Aurora A. Santiago
of information which are meant to console and enlighten,
but which ultimately keep one imprisoned in his or her own
thoughts and feelings” (GE, 36).
It is one of the most sinister ideologies because, while
AS of press time, the came from the Atlantic Ocean pointers before, during and 2665; Metropolitan Manila unduly exalting knowledge or a specific experience, it
Philippines is bracing this and previously a Category after the storm on what to Development Authority considers its own vision of reality to be perfect (GE, 40).
year’s onslaught of the 4 hurricane and lowered to prepare considering that it (MMDA) - 136 (hotline), Gnostics think that their explanations can make
world’s strongest typhoon, Category 1 but it continued might take days for help to 882-4154 to 74 (trunk the entirety of the faith and the Gospel perfectly
Super Typhoon Ompong to dump massive amount of arrive. line), 0917-561-8711 (duty comprehensible. They absolutize their own theories and
with international name rain waters that could trigger Before the storm – (1) officer); Philippine National force others to submit to their way of thinking. A healthy
Mangkhut. The World disastrous flooding. monitor the news for updates Red Cross - 912-5668, 527- and humble use of reason in order to reflect on the
Meteorological Organization In times of calamities like on the storm situation; (2) 0000, 527-8481 local 6290 theological and moral teaching of the Gospel is one thing.
forecasted the monster these, people must be ready move to higher ground to and 6292; Philippine Coast It is another to reduce Jesus’ teaching to a cold and harsh
typhoon with winds at with emergency kit which avoid storm surges and flash Guard - 328-1098 527-6136; logic that seeks to dominate everything (GE, 39).
205kph and gustiness of should include 3 days worth floods - move animals and Meralco 16211, 0920-9716211 Here, a dangerous confusion can arise. We think that
255kph, equivalent to a of food and bottled water livestock to higher ground, (Smart), 0917-5516211 because we know something, or are able to explain it in
Category 5 hurricane, with (the quantity depends on the move furniture to higher (Globe); Maynilad - 1626. certain terms, we are already saints, perfect and better
900 kilometers radius and number of family members), floors of your home, gutters During the storm – (1) keep than the “ignorant masses”. Saint John Paul II warned of
storm surges at 6 meters. candles and/or flashlight, should be clear of leaves and radios tuned to radio station the temptation on the part of those in the Church who are
Ompong came from Pacific waterproof matches, debris, park your car on higher and follow all instructions more highly educated “to feel somehow superior to other
Ocean and gathered strength batteries, battery-operated ground; (3) stock up on food if need to evacuate; (2) members of the faithful” (GE, 45).
before its landfall in Cagayan radios, whistle, clothes, and water supplies; charge turn off all electricity using Gnosticism gave way to another heresy called Pelagianism,
and Isabela provinces in umbrella, toiletries, large gadgets; (4) prepare your the breaker box (main likewise present in our day. As time passed, many came to
Northern Luzon. garbage bags, first aid kit escape routes and determine power switch), disconnect realize that it is not knowledge that betters us or makes
On the other side of the (contains band-aids, alcohol, the meeting place where you equipment that uses water us saints, but the kind of life we lead. But this subtly led
globe, Hurricane Florence antibiotics, antacids, anti- and family members may (like washing machines); (3) back to the old error of the Gnostics, which was simply
hits the Eastern Coast of the allergy medicines, mosquito gather after the storm; escape never walk or swim through transformed rather than eliminated. The same power that
United States and battered repellent, sunscreen and gears like floating devices, swiftly moving water, nor the Gnostics attributed to the intellect, others now began to
the Carolinas. It is one of other prescription drugs snorkels, swimming gear or wade in floodwater – it may attribute to the human will, to personal effort (GE, 46-47).
the biggest storms to have a that may be needed), swiss inflatable rafts for worst-case contain dangerous debris Even though they speak warmly of God’s grace, “followers
landfall in the U.S. East Coast army knife (all-in-one), scenarios; (5) keep note of (may contact leptospirosis), of this doctrine ultimately trust only in their own powers
and would stay for a few days cash, important documents emergency hotlines in your downed power lines, and feel superior to others because they observe certain
causing water in the rivers placed inside sealed plastic area (Philippine hotlines poisonous snakes. Never rules or remain intransigently faithful to a particular
and lakes to rise and would envelopes. Do not forget your are: National Disaster Risk cross floodwaters that is 2 feet Catholic style” (GE, 49).
cause heavy flooding in North rosary, the best weapon in Reduction and Management deep, it can carry away most In hindsight, the Pope is telling us that the pursuit of
and South Carolina and storms and calamities. Council - 734-2118, 734-2120; cars; find an alternate route, holiness is not found absolutely in theological principles
Viginia. Hurricane Florence Surfing the internet, it gave 911-5061, 911-1406 and 912- Duc in Altum / A7 and discourses but by concretely living the faith in union
with Christ and with complete dependence on God’s grace.
The document also establishes a clear path to this type
Dollar for a tooth of holiness by pointing to the Beatitudes of Matthew (5:3-
Whatever 12). It says, “Being poor of heart: that is holiness (GE, 70).
Reacting with meekness and humility: that is holiness (GE,
Fr. Francis Ongkingco 74). Knowing how to mourn with others: that is holiness
(GE, 76). Hungering and thirsting for righteousness: that
is holiness (GE, 79). Seeing and acting with mercy: that is
holiness (GE, 82). Keeping a heart free of all that tarnishes
A CLOSE friend shared a story about her tooth?” they can no longer meet our selfish love: that is holiness (GE, 86). Sowing peace all around
son. When he lost his front tooth, they My friend wrote: ‘We literally expectations, we dispose of them. us: that is holiness” (GE, 89). Accepting daily the path of
told him that he could keep it under his ROLFed!’ Like the boy in the anecdote, even if the Gospel, even though it may cause us problems: that is
pillow. I asked her what it meant and she said: we may be given a dollar in exchange for holiness (GE, 94).
“Why?” Rolling On the Floor Laughing. a tooth, there is nothing that would give In Matthew (25: 31-46), Jesus expands on the Beatitude
“So the tooth fairy can come and get us back a real tooth. Daily, we see this that calls the merciful blessed. If we seek the holiness
it,” they explained. *** trend happening in our lives as flashy pleasing to God’s eyes, this text offers us one clear criterion
“Then what?” This story reminded me about the gadgets, social media, and a “touristic” on which we will be judged. “I was hungry and you gave me
“She will exchange it with a gift!” following sayings: “There are things that outlook on life. This kind of world view food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger
Her son excitedly did everything they money cannot buy!” or “Money, can’t tends to replace or blur the value of life’s and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I
said. He even washed the tooth and kept buy everything!” priceless people and moments. was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you
it inside a little paper pouch and wrote: Sometimes it’s easy to forget that These cannot be captured in a selfie or visited me” (GE, 95).
‘For the tooth fairy!’ there are some priceless things that a video; it cannot be worded out easily Holiness, then, is not about swooning in mystic rapture.
The next day he rushed into the dining pass us only once in life: our families, on a blog nor can it be shared over social As Saint John Paul II said: “If we truly start out anew
room holding a pouch. parents, siblings, friends, etc. Then media. There are some things we cannot from the contemplation of Christ, we must learn to see
“The tooth fairy came! The tooth fairy there are important life ingredients that simply replace or rewind, because him especially in the faces of those with whom he himself
came!” help us live life better: the virtues and they are best treasured and cherished wished to be identified” (GE, 96).
“What did she give you, honey!” His our God-given talents. Finally, there are personally. The Pope, of course, does not discount other forms or
mother winked at her husband. the memories we reminisce every day, It may be good at every day’s end, not means of sanctification already in practice. “I will not pause
“I don’t know, I haven’t opened it yet,” that we treasure forever. only to thank God for our blessings. But to explain the means of sanctification already known to us:
he peered into the pouch. We often miss out on them because to also write down a few of them in some the various methods of prayer, the inestimable sacraments
“So, what’s inside?” of our materialistic and consumerist form of diary. And then as we go over of the Eucharist and Reconciliation, the offering of
“A dollar!!!?” world. Very often, people, things, and them, with God’s light and grace, to ask personal sacrifices, different forms of devotion, spiritual
“Are you happy?” events are valued more by how they ourselves how we have treasured them direction, and many others as well. But, here I will speak
“Yes, but where can I go to buy a new can be quantified or weighed. And when a little more each day. Collection Box / A6
A6 LOCAL NEWS September 17 - 30, Vol 22, No. 19 CBCP Monitor

Prayer, sense of mission Priest: ‘Devotion to Mary is


devotion to the Eucharist’
necessary for Catholic media
— bishops
PRAYER and a sense of mission a whole. must give prime attention to
are essential to Catholic news In his keynote address, CBCP communicators themselves, and to
organizations and social president Archbishop Romulo the heart and mind of the ministers
communication ministry workers Valles of Davao reminded the themselves—communicators
a, bishops said. participants that the reality of their who are inspired and given the
Speaking at the gathering of mission is the “grace of our office, opportunity to be close to the one
Catholic media in Davao City, Bishop not the budget, because we are who said ‘I am the Truth.’’”
Mylo Hubert Vergara of Pasig, participating in the proclamation “It is very important that we come
chairman of the CBCP’s Commission of the kingdom”. to him with heart and mind and in
on Social Communications, said that On fake news, he quoted Pope mysterious ways be touched by the
they “must be persons of prayer”. Francis’ message for the 2018 person who is the truth,” he said.
“As Catholic media practitioners, World Communications Day that “What are the signs that we are
if we want to combat fake news and “the best antidotes to falsehoods close to Him? Since every lover is
be journalists of peace, we must be are not strategies but people, joyful of the unity with the beloved,
men and women of prayer,” he said people who are not greedy but are the result is joy,” Valles added. The faithful celebrated a thanksgiving feast at the Mother of the Eucharist & Grace – House of Prayer
at the 4th National Catholic Media ready to listen, people who make He also enjoined the participants (MEG) in Sta. Maria, Bulacan on the Sunday after the Solemnity of the Assumption and before the
Convention on Aug. 7. the effort to engage in sincere to have social communications Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Aug. 19, 2018. KENDRICK IVAN PANGANIBAN
“Being exposed to Jesus, to the dialogue so truth can emerge, ministry that develops the language
Eucharistic Lord, we clearly realize people who are attracted by of “Christian joy and humor”. A LOVE and devotion for the in their lives as the communities
the font and source of what we goodness and take responsibility At the event’s opening Mass Blessed Virgin can only lead to around MEG are starting to be
proclaim, Jesus who is our truth, for how they use language. at the St. Peter Metropolitan a deeper fervor for Jesus in the formed.” Though under the Sto.
Jesus who is no one else but the “If responsibility is the answer Cathedral on Aug. 6, Valles Eucharist. Niño Parish in Parada, Sta. Maria,
Prince of Peace,” he said. to fight fake news, then those who stressed that Catholic media This was one of the messages of communities in San Vicente barrio
More than 140 delegates provide information, journalists people must have hearts with Fr. Fernando B. Cenon, Mother of were established in the previous
composed of priests, religious who are protectors of news must three qualities: filled with joy, the Eucharist & Grace – House of years to support the initial needs of
sisters and lay people joined the see their work not as a job but as a have a sense of responsibility, Prayer (MEG) shrine administrator, the oratory-shrine.
convention to discuss “fake news”, mission,” Valles said. and have hope, goodness and in his homily on Sunday, Aug. 19,
journalism for peace and the current The archbishop added that “a trust that God’s love will triumph. the Sunday after the Solemnity Humble beginnings
situation of the Mindanao region as social communication ministry (Teresa Tunay / CBCPNews) of the Assumption and before the The MEG Diocesan Shrine began
Queenship of the Blessed Virgin as a small chapel in its present lot
By the Roadside / A4 Mary. in Sta. Maria in 1994 through the
“Devotion to the Blessed Mother efforts of the community and of
switching to small-scale Herein lurks the danger. of the earth be heeded as unless the response is is a devotion to the Holy Eucharist. Carmelo V. Cortez, a visionary,
mining for easier and With the Philippines’ “one voice”. concerted and collective, Our veneration of Mary in the who first introduced the title and
perhaps bigger pay-off, perennial inability to These supreme unless the responsibility different, traditional activities appearance of Mary as “Mother
should invite the local folks provide adequate socially shepherds of the Latin and is shared and accountable, of the Church should allow us to of the Eucharist and Grace” to the
and us to national soul- just conditions for its Eastern Churches issued unless we give priority to understand how Mary is one with us faithful in the diocese.
searching. Have not our populations, gainful a common statement solidarity and service.” in asking for Jesus’ mercy,” stressed In the following years, the
poor been disillusioned employment and basic urging those “in positions There is plenty for both the priest. devotion spread to the faithful in
by the futility of hard work services, not to say its of social and economic, the Church and State in The oratory, declared a diocesan different places, with healing Masses
in the local scene and, in chronic law-enforcement as well as political and the Philippines to still learn shrine in 2006, celebrated on being held on first Saturdays of the
consequence, preferred selective impotence, it cultural, responsibility to and unlearn as regards the Sunday its thanksgiving feast in month. The oratory was expanded
the lure of easy money and is hard to expect the hear the cry of the earth urgency of the ecological honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary, in 1999 with the endorsement of
less hard work, unmindful hungry poor or the profit- and to attend to the needs crisis. Unfortunately in San Vicente, in this town. the Bishop and with the help of
of harm in the offing for driven rich to leave the of the marginalized.” the animosity and the members of the Mother of the
themselves, their families country’s ecology rightly These two cries are one. belligerence in the chief ‘Marian devotion leads to Eucharist and Grace Prayer Group
and the environment? and sufficiently cared Why? executive’s approach is Eucharistic devotion’ who promoted the devotion in
Desperation can beget for. Gaping terrains, Both spiritual leaders not only eroding his own Focusing on the Gospel passage Manila, the Visayas, and abroad.
irrationality. We must widespread pollution, respond: “The human effectiveness; it is also on the Bread of Life, Cenon said, In 2006, the late Malolos Bishop
wonder aloud if this heavily silted rivers and environment and the undermining the essential “The devotion to Mary is a devotion Jose Oliveros approved the parish’s
consideration is being oceans bear mother natural environment are collective nature of the that leads us to Jesus Christ. As we petition for the oratory to be
made an essential nature ‘s screams, no deteriorating together, required common response celebrate the Holy Eucharist, … we declared a diocesan shrine.
part of preparedness longer cries, for help. and this deterioration of to the crisis in order to remember how the Bread of Life
assessments. Unless the Those cries and screams the planet weighs upon preserve and sustain our came to us through the aid of Mary, Support for seminarians
attitudes of desperation could become its dying the most vulnerable of common home. our Mother.” With the devotion to the Virgin
and irrationality of many gasps for breath unless its people...The impact When a leader is A triduum held from Aug. 16 having an appeal to prayer and
of our poor are met our country’s and planet’s of climate change affects, plagued by an physical to 18 kicked off the celebration’s support for priests and seminarians,
squarely with appropriate stakeholders behave like first and foremost, those incapacity, he may still devotional and social activities for financial contributions from the
measures, the zero- who they are meant to who live in poverty in inspire his constituents by the members of the communities shrine are distributed to both
casualty objective could be—true stewards, not every corner of the globe.” his wisdom or courage in under the shrine. The faithful also the MEG communities and the
remain its own perpetual masters. Pope Francis, Not content with stating dealing with the challenges attended a solemn dawn procession, Immaculate Conception Major
victim. the ecology prophet of a factual observation, they at hand. But when a leader the Holy Eucharist, and a Baptism Seminary (ICMAS) in Guiguinto
The poor in the rural our time, was joined by offer a direction to follow: loses the capacity to unite on the morning of Aug. 19. The town, the house of priestly formation
communities who Patriarch Bartholomew “We are convinced that his people, he merely celebration is the second since in the Diocese of Malolos.
have nowhere to go last September 1, 2017 there can be no enduring magnifies each crisis by Cenon’s administration in 2016, Cenon, who currently administers
for survival will always in expressing a common resolution to the challenge his efforts and assures establishing a fiesta for the MEG the shrine, is part of the ICMAS
have recourse to what urgent concern that the of the ecological crisis only a common doom to shrine community, apart from formation team, together with
mother nature offers. cry of the poor and the cry and climate change the common home. the June 12 celebration, which is previous administrators. Through
connected to the private revelation the devotion to the Mother of the
Rehab / A1 of “Mary as Mother of the Eucharist Eucharist and Grace, the faithful
and Grace.” believe vocations of seminarians
After the storm has passed people reported that there is an urgent centers,” appealed Fr. Manuel
Cenon explained: “This are being fostered for the continuity
will also need help to restore their need for food in coastal and interior Flores, Social Action Coordinator
celebration is meant to give the of the mission of the local clergy.
livelihoods,” it said. areas. of the Diocese of Baguio.
community an opportunity to kindle (Kendrick Ivan Panganiban/
Caritas Philippines and different “There are a lot of things we need Catholic Relief Services (CRS)
the devotion to the Virgin Mother CBCPNews)
dioceses have immediately worked right now, particularly food, canned was also on the ground providing
with affected families by giving out goods, clothes, blankets. We are lifesaving assistance for families,
Collection Box / A5
emergency food packs. again knocking on your door, asking distributing food and shelter,
The typhoon, the strongest for your generosity,” said Fr. Peter potable water and hygiene kits. only of certain aspects of the call BOLDNESS AND PASSION.
to hit the country this year, has Rambac, parish priest in Roxas in It said that donations will help to holiness that I hope will prove Holiness is also parrhesía: it is
affected nearly 893,000 people Isabela. provide other critical supplies especially meaningful” (GE, 110). boldness, an impulse to evangelize
in 30 provinces as the it damaged In his parish alone, 90 percent of to communities affected by the He then went on to characterize and to leave a mark in this world
houses and crops. vegetable crop has been damaged disaster. the current religious marketplace (GE, 129).
The government said almost and 15 percent of rice harvested. The Catholic Agency for Overseas dominated by anxiety, sometimes IN COMMUNITY. Growth in
250,000 people have sought refuge The number of people killed Development (CAFOD) in England violent, that distracts and holiness is a journey in community,
in evacuation centers or with host by Ompong climbed further to and Wales has initially pledged debilitates; negativity and side by side with others. The
families. 81 on Sept. 19, with most of the around P2.1 million to help Caritas sullenness; the self-content bred common life, whether in the
Fr. Edwin Gariguez, Executive fatalities still coming from the Philippines scale up their emergency by consumerism; individualism; family, the parish, the religious
Secretary of Caritas Philippines, Cordillera Administrative Region response and reach more people. and all those forms of ersatz community or any other, is made
said that relief efforts must empower (CAR). “CAFOD and the Caritas network spirituality. up of small everyday things (GE
communities to harness resilience “We need your help in Benguet are providing emergency relief From there, the Pope offers 141, 143).
and sustain long-term recovery. especially for the families and to affected communities,” it said. the following as the bedrock of IN CONSTANT PRAYER.
Caritas assessment teams individuals at the evacuation (CBCPNews) holiness in the modern world: Finally, though it may seem
Deportation / A1
PERSEVERANCE, PATIENCE obvious, we should remember
AND MEEKNESS. Says the that holiness consists in a habitual
after getting a temporary Fox had already spent 27 approved the conversion order against Fox had Pope, “Here I am not speaking openness to the transcendent,
downgraded visa. years in the country. of Sister Fox’s tourist been temporarily stalled only about stark situations of expressed in prayer and adoration
In denying to extend “When you apply, you visa into a missionary after she filed a motion for martyrdom, but about the daily (GE, 147).
Fox’s visa, the BI cited need endorsement from visa, she was given a new reconsideration before the humiliations of those who keep Francis concludes by focusing
its memorandum the CBCP. I have my or a fresh period of 10 Department of Justice. silent to save their families, who on discernment which, he
of agreement with endorsement from the years from the said date Justice Secretary prefer to praise others rather says, “is necessary not only at
the Catholic Bishops’ CBCP. That means that or until 2024 to stay in Menardo Guevarra than boast about themselves, extraordinary times when one
Conference of the the CBCP is not insisting the country,” they said. earlier said the BI’s order or who choose the less welcome has to resolve grave problems
Philippines which that it is not only for a The 72-year-old nun has will have to await the tasks, at times even choosing to and make crucial decisions but is
restricts missionary visa 10-year term,” said Fox. been ordered deported DOJ’s resolution on the bear an injustice so as to offer also a means of spiritual combat
holders for up to 10 years. Lawyers Jobert Pahilga from the Philippines for appeal. it to the Lord”. “If when you do for helping us to follow the Lord
Fox has earlier and Ma. Sol Taule refuted allegedly joining partisan Sandoval said they right and suffer for it, you have more faithfully. We need it at all
appealed for the renewal the BI’s claim, saying that political activities, may grant Fox the God’s approval” (1 Pet 2:20) times.”
of her missionary visa the 10-year extension violating the “limitations Temporary Visitor’s (GE, 119). The practicality with which
after it expired on and renewal rule should and conditions” of her Visa upon downgrading, JOY AND A SENSE OF the Pope teaches about holiness
September 5. only apply to Fox’s case missionary visa. without prejudice to HUMOUR. Far from being timid, make it indeed an achievable goal
The Bureau insisted on the day the Bureau Sr. Fox has also been the resolution of her morose, acerbic or melancholy, or and not a lofty ideal that is quite
that extending the nun’s converted her tourist visa placed on the blacklist of appeal to the DOJ putting on a dreary face, the saints unreachable. Yes, holiness is a
visa would violate the on Sept. 5, 2014. undesirable aliens. on her deportation. are joyful and full of good humor lifestyle yet it remains to be a path
agreement, adding that “[When] the BI But the BI’s deportation (CBCPNews) (GE, 122). not easily chosen.
CBCP Monitor September 17 - 30, Vol 22, No. 19 DIOCESAN NEWS A7

Catholic, Muslim leaders decry Youth told: ‘Offer yourselves to


God with courage’
bomb attacks in Mindanao DURING the Marian Youth Camp vigil “with love, for Mary and for
CATHOLIC and Muslim leaders in Muslim Mindanao, said Islamic held at Baliuag University Gym Jesus Christ.”
in the southern Philippines have State supporters in Mindanao want in Baliuag, Bulacan, Sept. 7 to Organized by Mama Mary’s Flock
condemned a spate of bombings to show that they are still a force to 8, Fr. Joseph Franz Dizon urged (MMF) and the St. Augustine Parish
that have rocked the island of be reckoned with. the young people to imitate how Commission on Youth (PCY), the
Mindanao in recent weeks. “There are still ISIS elements Mary responded to God’s call with Marian Youth Camp aims to invite
The last attack occurred on Sept. in Mindanao, and they want to courage. “Have the courage to offer more youth to serve the Church and
16 in General Santos City. At least show that they are still here,” said yourselves freely to God through to deepen their understanding of
eight people, including a 6-year-old Udasan. your service to the Church and to Mary’s role in the life of faith.
girl were injured by the blast next to On Sept. 18, the MILF ordered its those people in need,” he said. MMF head Joey Marte and
a pharmacy in the Crossing Makar fighters to go after those behind the “Do not be afraid to make a PCY chairman Cedie Garcia also
area of the city. bombings. decision for a greater purpose and encouraged the participants not to
It was the third bombing to hit “We commanded our forces [to] imitate Mary,” Dizon further hesitate to join Church organizations
Mindanao in recent weeks. Two to investigate and find the explained. “Mary made a decision as everyone is welcome to become a
bombings in the town of Isulan conspirators and perpetrators of that may not be acceptable to part of their apostolate.
on Sept. 2 and Aug. 28 killed five these bombings,” said Al Haj Murad everyone when she answered yes The participants were also given a
people. Ebrahim, MILF chairman. to God because she firmly believed chance to showcase their talents and
Cardinal Orlando Quevedo of He also ordered his men “to take that the call is for a higher purpose offer them to the Blessed Virgin. A
Cotabato said the attacks were the active measures to prevent similar and that is to become a part of God’s concelebrated Mass was also offered
result of dissatisfaction among some incidents in their respective areas.” salvation of mankind through Jesus at the parish church to highlight the
Moro groups with the upcoming General Santos City Mayor Christ.” event, following a dawn procession
establishment of a new Muslim
Cardinal Orlando Quevedo of Cotabato. MARIA TAN
Ronnel Rivera said the bombing Meanwhile, parish priest Msgr. held in honor of the Blessed Virgin.
region in the south. the Moro National Liberation Front on Sept. 16 was a “cowardly attempt Andres Varela told the youth camp (Myraine Carluen-Policarpio/
In July, Philippine President (MNLF) in the late 1970s. aimed at destabilizing peace and participants to participate in the CBCPNews)
Rodrigo Duterte signed a law that However, another breakaway economic progress.”
Evangelization / A3
aims to give greater autonomy to group, the Bangsamoro Islamic “We will never surrender to these
Muslims in the southern Philippines. Freedom Fighters (BIFF), is threats. We will not let fear and someone who asks me to bring “I explain that riches don’t give
The Bangsamoro Organic Law opposed to the deal. terrorism sink us,” he said. him to my country, and I tell them happiness, that I had all that which
come s int o e ff e ct four y e ars “They continue fighting not to In May last year, Islamic State- that the one who’s not going back they long for and it wasn’t making
after the government signed a destroy peace but because of their aligned militants belonging to the to her country is me,” she said. “I me happy. I’m much happier
peace agreement with the rebel ideology,” Cardinal Quevedo said. Maute and Abu Sayyaf groups tell them that I lived in this idyllic because God gives happiness and
Moro Islamic Liberation Front “Their ideology, heavily attacked the city of Marawi in a bid world that they want to go to, and love for one’s neighbor.” (Alvaro
(MILF). influenced by ISIS is to attack the to establish a so-called caliphate. I have renounced it.” de Juana/ACI Prensa)
The 2014 Comprehensive military and civilians,” added the The five-month conflict displaced
Agreement on the Bangsamoro prelate. close to half a million people
The View from the Mountain / A5
ended an armed struggle waged by Sheik Abu Huraira Udasan, grand and destroyed the city. (Bong
the MILF since it broke away from mufti in the Autonomous Region Sarmiento/UCAN) responsibility. There is no room for focus of the leader’s attention is
vain-glory or pomposity. the community and not oneself or
Christian leaders rally support for Mindanao Muslim region Servant-leadership is carried out
vis-à-vis the Christian community—
one’s personal gain. The poor in a
special way are the objects of the
CHRISTIAN groups in and Tawi-Tawi, has a the Church—whether at the parish servant-leader’s loving concern. The
the southern Philippines population of about four or the diocesan level. The pastor is shepherd loves and serves the flock
are gathering support million people. called to be the shepherd and servant more than himself and is willing to
for the establishment Muslims comprise 90 of the flock. His responsibility is give up his life for his flock.
of a new autonomous percent of the population to gather and lead the Christian The Church for a long time
Muslim region after voter while the rest belong community and to lead it in the has been plagued by clericalism.
registration for a special to various Christian spirit of service. Community This is the view of the clergy as a
plebiscite on the issue denominations, the building and formation is essential privileged elite class in the Church
began in Mindanao on majority of them Catholic. that is why it is necessary to form that is placed on a pedestal and
Sept. 11. Cardinal Orlando Basic Ecclesial Communities that wields control and power. This is
The plebiscite is Quevedo of Cotabato makes up the parish. The goal is to often accompanied by careerism—
scheduled for Jan. 21, has voiced support for lead a community whose members of constantly striving for higher
2019, to decide whether the creation of the new live in communion and participate p osit ion in the Chu rch. The
to ratify the Bangsamoro autonomous Muslim in Christ’s mission as a prophetic, emphasis on servant-leadership
Organic Law, which is region, saying it “responds priestly and servant community. In can overcome clericalism and
part of a 2014 peace deal to the age-old aspiration “stay-away policy.” rebels from fighters to doing so it becomes a community careerism in the Church.
between the government of the Bangsamoro for Al Haq said ratification “productive civilians.” of missionary disciples and an Servant leadership—this is what
and Moro rebels. authentic political and of the law and the creation Murad has been chosen expression of the Church of the Poor. the Church needs, this is what
The ratification of fiscal autonomy.” a new autonomous region to be chief minister of the Thus, leadership is always service to society also needs. Emphasis on
the law will establish “It will enable them will see the “centuries-old Bangsamoro Transition the community of God’s people, for this can overcome the dark side of
the Bangsamoro to chart their own quest of the Bangsamoro Authority, which shall be the good of the community. The leadership.
Autonomous Region in development and people for recognition the interim government
Muslim Mindanao, which destiny.... To a significant realized.” following ratification until Duc in Altum / A5
will replace the current degree, it redresses He said at least “99 the first regular elections abandon your vehicle immediately objects and pollution in flood water;
autonomous region. historic injustices against percent” of the rebel in new region are held in if it becomes surrounded with water watch out for live electrical wires;
Edgardo Ramirez, the Bangsamoro,” said the group’s 40,000 fighters 2022. or the engine stalls; seek higher (2) assess the damage; if you have
deputy governor for prelate. would register for the Murad says the task ground immediately; (4) try to stop evacuated from your home and
Christians in the region, The vast majority of the plebiscite. of running the new water from entering your home by return to it, be sure the structure is
appealed to non-Muslim 40,000-strong rebel Moro Ray Sumalipao, an region would be difficult putting plugs in sinks and baths and not visibly damaged and in danger
voters to register. Islamic Liberation Front election official in the because it would be totally weigh them down with a sandbag, of collapsing before entering. Do
“This is our obligation in is expected to register to region, said his office different to what he is pillowcase or a plastic bag filled not use electrical appliances that
a democratic society. Our vote, said Von Al Haq, wants to get as many used to doing. with garden soil or a heavy object; have been wet, because there are
united voice should come spokesman of the group’s potential voters involved “I am a veteran of a plug water inlet pipes with towels or hazards of electric shock and fire;
out in the plebiscite,” armed wing. in the plebiscite. thousand and one battles, cloths; (5) attempt to keep contact (3) Avoid water-borne diseases
Ramirez told ucanews. “It is important for the Rebel leader Al Haj but I am a neophyte in with your neighbors to make sure like leptospirosis; if there is no
com. combatants to register so Murad Ebrahim has been the art of governance,” everyone is safe and so that you safe water supply for washing,
The autonomous they can exercise their actively campaigning for said the rebel leader who can pool (and later ration) supplies use bottled water or disinfected
Muslim region, which right of suffrage,” he told ratification of the law even once served as the rebel when the situation calls for it; (6) water (by adding 5 drops of liquid
straddles the provinces ucanews.com. as he warned of “major group’s vice chairman for if your car is swept into the water household bleach and let sit for 30
of Maguindanao, Lanao In past elections, the challenges,” especially in military affairs. (Bong and submerged, do not panic. minutes). Before entering an area
del Sur, Basilan, Sulu, rebels have observed a transforming the 40,000 Sarmiento/UCAN) Stay calm, hold your breath, force that has been flooded, try to don
Abuse / A1
your way outside, and swim to the protective clothing to avoid contact
surface; if accidentally locked inside with floodwater. Decrease the risk
on clergy abuse. upcoming summit appears to be a Former Vatican ambassador the car, smash the car window with of mosquito or other insect bites by
Although the pope meets Synod of Bishops, when Catholic Vigano claimed in his Aug. 26 the backrest; (7) if stranded on using insect repellants. Throw away
frequently with groups of bishops bishops from around the world document that he personally warned something above floodwater, such all food (even canned ones) that have
from particular countries, a pontiff come to Rome for discussions on a Francis about McCarrick in 2013, as a tree or building, stay put and come in contact with flood water.
has never before called all the set topic. But alongside presidents but offered no substantiation of wait for rescue. Call for help if in In cases of storms, calamities
presidents of the world’s bishops’ of bishops’ conferences, Synods also that claim. danger. and emergencies, always have a
conferences to Rome. involve a swath of other prelates In a statement Sept. 10, the Council After the storm – (1) even if the presence of mind. Do not panic.
The situation is so unprecedented and Vatican officials, and they are of Cardinals said the Vatican is now storm is clear, keep listening to Be alert, always be prepared and
that when asked during the briefing normally announced at least a year “formulating possible and necessary weather reports; beware of sharp always be ready!
how many national bishops’ in advance. clarifications” to Vigano’s letter.
conferences there are across the Massimo Faggioli, a professor The nine-member group, which Justice / A1
globe, spokesperson García did not of historical theology at Villanova was created by Francis in 2013 to
have an immediate answer. University, said that Francis’ calling advise him on reforming the Vatican The area, he claimed, was “But, more often, the DENR is on
Chicago Cardinal Blase Cupich of the presidents of the conferences bureaucracy, also said it had asked supposed to be rehabilitated but the the side of mining companies, not
told NCR Francis’ summons is of to Rome was a “change of course” the pontiff to reflect on its own mining firm allegedly subcontracted with the poor communities,” he said.
“utmost importance” and “indicates from how his predecessors John “work, structure and composition.” small miners to continue operation. Anti-mining group Alyansa Tigil
once again that the pope is serious Paul II and Benedict XVI had That request has led to speculation “The community became even Mina believes that Cimatu has the
about addressing sexual abuse by considered the national entities. that there could be a refashioning more vulnerable to disasters because obligation to enforce to closure
clergy as a top priority in the global Under the previous pontiffs, of the membership of the council, of destructive mining activities of and suspension against the 26
church.” said Faggioli, there was “more which currently includes two Benguet Corp.,” said Gariguez. mining operations that violated
“Pope Francis has demonstrated emphasis on the individual bishop’s prelates under scrutiny: Australian The priest mourned the miners environmental laws.
this resolve time and again through authority and less on the bishops’ George Pell, on trial in his native who were buried in the landslide Jaybee Garganera, ATM national
a series of concrete actions including conferences.” country over allegations of past due to heavy rains unleashed by coordinator, said that many of
removing bishops and cardinals, “The abuse crisis has changed sexual abuse, and Chilean Francisco typhoon Ompong. these mining firms even failed to
frequently visiting with victim this,” said the theologian. “This Errázuriz Ossa, accused of covering As of Sept. 19, rescuers have comply with their own contractual
survivors, and admitting his own rebalancing is one of the effects up for abusive priests as archbishop recovered 19 bodies of about 70 obligations or conditionalities
mistakes,” said Cupich. “We are of the abuse crisis on Catholic of Santiago. miners and their families believed attached to their mining permits.
blessed to have the Holy Father’s ecclesiology.” Neither Pell nor Errazuriz buried in the muddy avalanche. It will be recalled that Cimatu,
leadership.” McCarrick, a former archbishop attended this week’s meeting of the Following the tragedy, upon assuming his post, has ordered
A quick survey of available data of Washington, renounced his place Council of Cardinals. environment chief Roy Cimatu on the Mining Industry Coordinating
indicates there are at least 114 in the College of Cardinals in July Asked if changes to the council Sept. 17 ordered a stop to all small- Council to review the closure orders.
national conferences of bishops in following revelation that he sexually should be expected before its next scale mining operations in the whole The MICC has reportedly
the Latin church and 21 synods, harassed or abused several young meeting, to be held Dec. 10-12, of Cordillera Administrative Region. completed its technical review
councils, and assemblies of Eastern- men during his rise to become one García responded: “We will see.” Gariguez said the DENR should process in July and is recommending
rite Catholic Churches. of the U.S. church’s most senior (Joshua J. EcElwee/National be at the forefront in efforts to hold the lifting or reversal of 22 of the
The closest analogy to the prelates. Catholic Reporter) the mining firm accountable. closure and suspension orders.
A8 PEOPLE, FACTS, AND PLACES September 17 - 30, Vol 22, No. 19 CBCP Monitor

Pope picks 8 Filipino


participants to youth synod

Pope Francis leads the Synod of Bishops on the family at the Vatican, October 23, 2015. PAUL HARING/CNS

POPE Francis has chosen eight Other participants are Fr. Renato
Filipinos including a young catechist De Guzman of the Office for Pastoral
to attend October’s Synod of Bishops Care of the Don Bosco Educational
on youth together with other Catholic Center, Fr. Emmanuel Enrico Ayo of
leaders from around the world. the Diocese of Parañaque, who will
Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of serve as one of the assistants, and
Manila, who was elected to the Nicole Anne Perez, a catechist from the
15-member synod council in 2015, Manila archdiocese and who is among
will lead the Philippine delegation the auditors to the synod.
composed of three other bishops, 2 The pope also picked another
priests and a lay person. Filipino, Bishop Pedro Baquero of
Tagle had served as one of the three Kerema diocese, as official delegate for
presidents delegate to the synod the Papua New Guinea and Solomon
general assemblies on the family in Islands.
October 2015. The three-week meeting will address
The pope has also approved the various issues on sexuality and gender,
members elected by the Catholic the role of women, and the desire for
Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines a Church which knows how to listen.
to represent the CBCP at synod. In March this year, over 300 young
The CBCP delegates are Bishop adult delegates including five Filipinos
Leopoldo Jaucian of Bangued, gathered in Rome, where Pope Francis
chairman of the CBCP Episcopal convened a pre-synod meeting to listen
Commission on Youth (ECY); Bishop directly to the voice of young people
Patricio Buzon of Bacolod, ECY Vice from around the world.
Chairman; and Bishop Joel Baylon of The gathering produced the
Legazpi, former ECY head and current “instrumentum laboris” or the working
member of the Federation of Asian document for the upcoming synod.
Bishops’ Conferences – Office of Laity The synod comes at a critical moment
and Family. in Pope Francis’ papacy as the crisis
The synod will meet at the Vatican on over clergy sex abuse continues to roil
CBCP President Archbishop Romulo Valles and CBCP Secretary General Fr. Marvin Mejia with other Asian Catholic leaders pose for a photograph at
October 3 to 28 to discuss “young people, the Catholic Church. (Roy Lagarde/ the Gahoedong Catholic Church during a tour of “Seoul’s Pilgrimage Route”, September 13, 2018. The Seoul archdiocese on Sept. 14 celebrated
faith and vocational discernment”. CBCPNews) the Vatican’s recognition of the South Korean capital as an official international pilgrimage site, a first for Asia for its martyrdom shrines. ROY LAGARDE

Antipolo’s 1st bishop-son ordained Sarmiento resigns as PPCRV chair


ON the feast of the Nativity of theology at ICMAS in 2002, In his message, Papal RENE Sarmiento has
the Blessed Virgin Mary, Sept. units in anthropology at the Nuncio Gabrielle Giordano resigned as chairman of the
8, the Diocese of Antipolo University of the Philippines Caccia also linked Buco Parish Pastoral Council for
rejoiced at the ordination in 2003, his doctorate in with the Blessed Virgin, Responsible Voting (PPCRV)
of its first bishop-son, Nolly canon law from UST in 2004, saying: “Today, with the four months after undergoing
Camingue, Buco, 54, who and is presently taking up celebration of the Nativity a head surgery.
was recently appointed its a Doctor of Jurisprudence of Mary, we witness the The 64-year-old lawyer,
auxiliary bishop. Sciences degree at San Beda nativity of a bishop”. He who only served the post
Bishops, members of University. further said, “Bishop Buco’s for almost two years, had
the Antipolo clergy, and Despite his various appointment is a grace of undergone surgery for
the faithful gathered at the academic and pastoral God. May you imitate Mary, “subdural hematoma” in
Immaculate Conception achievements, Tagle who is humble and willing August 2018.
Parish – National Shrine of reminded Buco that, “Pride to give herself at the service Sarmiento, a former
Our Lady of Peace & Good destroyed leaders. Humility of her Son.” Commissioner of the
Voyage in this city to witness sustains leaders. Proud Meanwhile, in his Commission on Elections
the diocese’s first episcopal leaders are bound to fail.” thanksgiving message, Buco (Comelec), said he had
ordination after 35 years as The Diocese of Antipolo celebrated the He also noted the bishop’s said, “I entrust my ministry resigned from PPCRV
a local Church. ordination of its first bishop-son, Nolly deep devotion to the Blessed to our Blessed Mother. May effective August 31. Former PPCRV chairman Rene Sarmiento.
In his homily for the Camingue, Buco, 54, who was recently Mother, saying: “It is a I always be her devoted son.” “I just finished the barangay CBCPNEWS
celebration, Manila appointed its auxiliary bishop, Sept. 8,
2018. PHOTO COURTESY OF CHANDA PASCUA wonderful blessing that we In light of his elevation elections and other PPCRV
Archbishop Luis Antonio did the ordination in this to the episcopate, De Leon matters. Time to slow down,” initiating measures that
Cardinal Tagle noted how Department of Social Welfare historic place, the National appointed Buco as the he said. made registration and polling
Buco has “come a long way and Development. His Shrine of Nuestra Señora de diocese’ new vicar general as Sarmiento’s term was precincts accessible to PWDs
in his journey,” not only in experience with the DSWD la Paz y Buen Viaje (Our Lady per his announcement of new supposed to end in October nationwide.
ministry, but also in life. Born led him to the Rizal province. of Peace and Good Voyage). appointments dated Sept. 2022 Since the 2010 until the
in Baganga, Davao Oriental, He pursued his theological In his years in the ministry, 9, 2018. Buco is currently PPCRV Vice Chairman recent barangay polls, the
Buco spent his childhood formation at the Immaculate Bishop Buco always sought parish priest of Our Lady of Johnny Cardenas will serve as PPCRV has been the “citizens’
years in San Francisco, Conception Major Seminary the help of Mary. He would Light Parish in Cainta, Rizal, interim chair of the church- arm” of the Comelec.
Southern Leyte, where he in Bulacan in 1993 and was be one of the people sitting whose image of Nuestra backed poll watchdog until PPCRV was established
would respond to a call to ordained the same year. among the faithful, looking Señora de la Luz (Our the Council elects a new head. in 1991 with the goal of
the priesthood. Entering the From there, Buco finished on Mary here in this shrine.” Lady of Light) is awaiting Sarmiento is highly conducting voters’ education
Sacred Heart Seminary in his licentiate in canon law Tagle expressed this as a sure its canonical coronation credited for championing and deploying volunteers
Palo, Leyte, he finished his at the University of Sto. sign of the fidelity that the on Dec. 1. (Kendrick the rights and welfare of to monitor the conduct
philosophical formation and Tomas (UST), Manila in bishop would always hold Ivan Panganiban/ persons with disability in of elections nationwide.
worked for a few years at the 1999, his master’s degree in onto. CBCPNews) the electoral process by (CBCPNews)

Cardinal Sin Catholic Book Lifetime awardees are ‘gifts’ to the Church
CALLING them, its “gifts to ‘Culture of love and life’ Guest speaker at this year’s Garden by Bro. Jesus Matias, OFS, Communications Foundation, Inc.,
the Church,” the Asian Catholic Since 2007, ACCI has been awards is Mr. John Nery, associate published by ST. PAULS, for the for Spirituality; Sharing the Filipino
Communicators, Inc. (ACCI), handing out the Cardinal Sin editor and opinion columnist of the Children’s category; Get Ready for Marian Piety by Msgr. Sabino Vengco,
an association of Catholic book Catholic Book Awards (CSCBA) in Philippine Daily Inquirer who will More by Bo Sanchez, published Jr., published by Foundation for
publishers in the Philippines, different categories, the highlight deliver a message inspired by Pope by Shepherd’s Voice Publications, Christ-Love Asia, Inc., for Theology;
is set to recognize two Lifetime of which is a Lifetime Achievement Francis’ call to eradicate fake news Inc., for the Inspirational category; To My Fellow Igorot Youth by Dr.
Achievement awardees on Sept. Award that is given an individual and promote journalism for peace. Morena Graciosa by Michael delos Ryan Camado Guinaran, published
12, 6:00 p.m., at the Manila whose Catholic life and apostolic Reyes, published by Claretian by Diteng Inc./Ryan Guinaran, for
International Book Fair (MIBF) zeal is reflected in his or her writings. Promoting Gospel values Communications Foundation Inc., the Youth category
to be held at the SMX Convention This year’s winners of the Cardinal The ACCI, formerly known as for Liturgy; Family Goals by Michele The Asian Catholic Communicators
Center, Mall of Asia. Sin Catholic Book Awards (CSCBA) the Asian Catholic Publishers, Alignay, MA, RP, RGC, published Inc. comprises Bayard Assumption
Sr. Teresa Joseph Patrick of Jesus and will be announced at the event as well. Inc. (ACPI), was founded by the by Shepherd’s Voice Publications, Media Foundation, Claretian
Mary, OCD, and Fr. Gil Alinsangan, SSP Manila Auxiliary Bishop late Archbishop of Manila Jaime Inc., for Family Life; Jesus Reigns! Communications Foundation, Inc.,
are the ACCI’s Lifetime Achievement Broderick S. Pabillo commended Cardinal Sin. The group aims “to by Most Rev. Ruperto C. Santos, Communication Foundation for Asia,
awardees for 2018. the CSCBA and its supporters recognize authors and publishers DD, STL, published by ST. PAULS, Institute of Spirituality in Asia, Inc.,
“These two consecrated for the inspiration they bring the who promote total human for Homiletics; The Spirituality of Jesuit Communications Inc., Logos
individuals are our ‘gifts’ because faithful. “May this Catholic Book development, Gospel values and Bishop Labayen by Julio Xavier Publications, Paulines, Shepherd’s
we also celebrate the Year of the Awards contribute to this effort of Filipino culture through the effective Labayen, OCD, published by Voice Publications, Inc., ST. PAULS,
Clergy and Consecrated Persons,” giving hope and trust so that we may use of the latest communications Institute of Spirituality in Asia, Inc., Word & Life Publications, Catholic
said ACCI chair Fr. John Klen shape a Filipino culture of love and technology in book publishing.” for Ministry; Ponderings by Nil Book Center, Sinag-tala, and New
Malificiar, SSP. life,” he said. Last year’s winners were: Gabriel’s Guillemette, published by Claretians City Press.(CBCPNews)
CBCP Monitor September 17 - 30, 2018 Vol. 22 No. 19 PASTORAL CONCERNS B1

(This year, World Mission Sunday will be celebrated on October 21, 2018)

Pope Francis leads a meeting with young people in Palermo, Sicily, September 15, 2018. PAUL HARING/CNS

Together with young people,


let us bring the Gospel to all
Message of His Holiness Pope Francis for the World Mission Day 2018
DEAR young people, I would like to reflect and proclaim this message of truth and fulfil- become the expression of a newfound meaning missionary service. How many young people
with you on the mission that we have received ment. Dear young people, do not be afraid of and fulfillment in life. The spread of the faith find in missionary volunteer work a way of
from Christ. In speaking to you, I also address Christ and his Church! For there we find the “by attraction” calls for hearts that are open serving the “least” of our brothers and sisters
all Christians who live out in the Church the treasure that fills life with joy. I can tell you and expanded by love. It is not possible to (cf.  Mt  25:40), promoting human dignity
adventure of their life as children of God. this from my own experience: thanks to faith, place limits on love, for love is strong as death and witnessing to the joy of love and of be-
What leads me to speak to everyone through I found the sure foundation of my dreams and (cf. Song 8:6). And that expansion generates ing Christians! These ecclesial experiences
this conversation with you is the certainty that the strength to realize them. I have seen great encounter, witness, proclamation; it generates educate and train young people not only for
the Christian faith remains ever young when suffering and poverty mar the faces of so many sharing in charity with all those far from the professional success, but also for developing
it is open to the mission that Christ entrusts of our brothers and sisters. And yet, for those faith, indifferent to it and perhaps even hos- and fostering their God-given gifts in order
to us. “Mission revitalizes faith” (Redemptoris who stand by Jesus, evil is an incentive to tile and opposed to it. Human, cultural and better to serve others. These praiseworthy
Missio, 2), in the words of Saint John Paul II, a ever greater love. Many men and women, and religious settings still foreign to the Gospel of forms of temporary missionary service are a
Pope who showed such great love and concern many young people, have generously sacri- Jesus and to the sacramental presence of the fruitful beginning and, through vocational dis-
for young people. ficed themselves, even at times to martyrdom, Church represent the extreme peripheries, the cernment, they can help you to decide to make
The Synod to be held in Rome this coming out of love for the Gospel and service to their “ends of the earth”, to which, ever since the a complete gift of yourselves as missionaries.
October, the month of the missions, offers us brothers and sisters. From the cross of Jesus first Easter, Jesus’ missionary disciples have The Pontifical Mission Societies were born
an opportunity to understand more fully, in we learn the divine logic of self-sacrifice (cf. 1 been sent, with the certainty that their Lord is of young hearts as a means of supporting the
the light of faith, what the Lord Jesus wants Cor 1:17-25) as a proclamation of the Gospel always with them (cf. Mt 28:20; Acts 1:8). This preaching of the Gospel to every nation and
to say to you young people, and, through you, for the life of the world (cf. Jn 3:16). To be set is what we call the missio ad gentes. The most thus contributing to the human and cultural
to all Christian communities. afire by the love of Christ is to be consumed by desolate periphery of all is where mankind, growth of all those who thirst for knowledge
that fire, to grow in understanding by its light in need of Christ, remains indifferent to the of the truth. The prayers and the material aid
Life is a mission and to be warmed by its love (cf. 2 Cor 5:14). faith or shows hatred for the fullness of life in generously given and distributed through the
Every man and woman is a mission; that is At the school of the saints, who open us to the God. All material and spiritual poverty, every Pontifical Mission Societies enable the Holy
the reason for our life on this earth. To be at- vast horizons of God, I invite you never to stop form of discrimination against our brothers See to ensure that those who are helped in
tracted  and to be  sent  are two movements wondering: “What would Christ do if he were and sisters, is always a consequence of the their personal needs can in turn bear witness
that our hearts, especially when we are young, in my place?” rejection of God and his love. to the Gospel in the circumstances of their
feel as interior forces of love; they hold out The ends of the earth, dear young people, daily lives. No one is so poor as to be unable
promise for our future and they give direction Transmitting the faith to the ends of nowadays are quite relative and always easily to give what they have, but first and foremost
to our lives. More than anyone else, young the earth “navigable”. The digital world—the social net- what they are. Let me repeat the words of
people feel the power of life breaking in upon You too, young friends, by your baptism works that are so pervasive and readily avail- encouragement that I addressed to the young
us and attracting us. To live out joyfully our have become living members of the Church; able—dissolves borders, eliminates distances people of Chile: “Never think that you have
responsibility for the world is a great chal- together we have received the mission to and reduces differences. Everything appears nothing to offer, or that nobody needs you.
lenge. I am well aware of lights and shadows bring the Gospel to everyone. You are at the within reach, so close and immediate. And yet Many people need you. Think about it! Each
of youth; when I think back to my youth and threshold of life. To grow in the grace of the lacking the sincere gift of our lives, we could of you, think in your heart: many people need
my family, I remember the strength of my faith bestowed on us by the Church’s sacra- well have countless contacts but never share me” (Meeting with Young People, Maipu
hope for a better future. The fact that we are ments plunges us into that great stream of in a true communion of life. To share in the Shrine, 17 January 2018).
not in this world by our own choice makes us witnesses who, generation after generation, mission to the ends of the earth demands the Dear young people, this coming October,
sense that there is an initiative that precedes enable the wisdom and experience of older gift of oneself in the vocation that God, who the month of the missions, we will hold the
us and makes us exist. Each one of us is called persons to become testimony and encourage- has placed us on this earth, chooses to give us Synod devoted to you. It will prove to be one
to reflect on this fact: “I am a mission on this ment for those looking to the future. And the (cf. Lk 9:23-25). I dare say that, for a young more occasion to help us become missionary
Earth; that is the reason why I am here in this freshness and enthusiasm of the young makes man or woman who wants to follow Christ, disciples, ever more passionately devoted to
world” (Evangelii Gaudium, 273). them a source of support and hope for those what is most essential is to seek, to discover Jesus and his mission, to the ends of the earth.
nearing the end of their journey. In this blend and to persevere in his or her vocation. I ask Mary, Queen of the Apostles, Saint Fran-
We proclaim Jesus Christ of different stages in life, the mission of the cis Xavier, Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus
The Church, by proclaiming what she freely Church bridges the generations; our faith in Bearing witness to love and Blessed Paolo Manna to intercede for all
received (cf. Mt 10:8; Acts 3:6), can share with God and our love of neighbor are a source of I am grateful to all those ecclesial groups of us and to accompany us always.
you young people the way and truth which profound unity. that make it possible for you to have a personal
give meaning to our life on this earth. Jesus This transmission of the faith, the heart of encounter with Christ living in his Church: From the Vatican, 20 May 2018, Solemnity
Christ, who died and rose for us, appeals to our the Church’s mission, comes about by the in- parishes, associations, movements, religious of Pentecost
freedom and challenges us to seek, discover fectiousness of love, where joy and enthusiasm communities, and the varied expressions of FRANCIS
B2 FEATURE September 17 - 30, 2018 Vol. 22 No. 19 CBCP Monitor

The office of Peter


Putting the Vigano affair in perspective (Part II)
By Fr. Jaime B. Achacoso, J.C.D. confirm his election to it, he takes for which the following are the
power that corresponds to the Pope
by virtue of his office. office canonically by accepting requirements for validity:
2) Such Primacy does not legitimate election. 1º that he makes the resignation
undermine the equally ordinary, 2) Episcopal consecration of freely—Therefore, like all juridic
proper and immediate power of the elected pope; therefore, one who act, the resignation must be free
the Bishops in their respective is already a bishop obtains this same and not have any of the defects that
particular Churches (c.381, §1). power from the moment he accepts invalidate such act (cf. cc.124-128;
On the contrary, the latter is both his election to the pontificate, but 187-189).
strengthened and safeguarded if the one elected lacks episcopal 2º that it be duly manifested—For
(c.333, §1; cf. LG, n.27), because the character, he is to be ordained a the necessary juridic certainty, the
latters’ power of jurisdiction is just bishop immediately (c.332, §1 in Code requires that the will to resign
a deconcentration of the supreme fine). This provision is the novelty be formally manifested. However,
power of jurisdiction—the power of of c.332, §1 with respect to the old the resignation need not be accepted
the keys, to “bind and loosen”—which c.219 of the CIC 1917, reflecting the by anyone, a consequence of the
was given to Peter alone and to his provision of Paul VI, Apost. Const. principle that Romanus Pontifex a
successors in the Petrine Office. That Romano Pontifici eligendo nemine iudicatur.
is why only the Pope can constitute (1.X.1975), n.88. Juridical Government of the
ecclesiastical circumscriptions (e.g.,
erect dioceses) and provide for them
(i.e., appoint prelates for them).
2) Hierarchical Communion—
Pope Francis meets then-Cardinal Theodore E. McCarrick during his general audience at the Vatican June
19, 2013. CNS/VATICAN MEDIA If the extension of the papal power
is best expressed by the notion of
“In this extremely dramatic this lengthy article, let us see why papal primacy (in the context of the
moment for the universal Church … asking the Pope to resign is way communio ecclesiarum), the
Pope Francis must be the first to set out of line. limits of the exercise of such power
a good example for cardinals and is best expressed by the notion of
bishops who covered up [Cardinal Extension and Limits of Papal communio hierarchica, as laid
Theodore] McCarrick’s abuses Power down in the next paragraph of c.333.
and resign along with the rest A lot has been said lately Can.333, §2—The Roman Pontiff,
of them.” That was the stunning questioning the extent and limits of in fulfilling the office of the supreme
message of a letter, sent by former papal power. To speak of extension pastor of the Church, is always
papal nuncio to the U.S. Archbishop and limitation of the exercise of papal united in communion with the other
Carlo Maria Viganò, that has power is tantamount to speaking bishops and with the universal
been roiling the Catholic world about primacy and hierarchical Church; however, he has the right,
since it was published in several communion, and these notions according to the needs of the Church,
traditionalist Catholic news outlets are regulated in c.333, §§1 and 2 to determine the manner, either
on the first day of September. “At respectively. personal or collegial, of exercising
turns moralistic and conspiratorial The Primacy—This term refers this function.
in tone, erratic in its deployment to a complex relationship that exists What this paragraph establishes
of facts, and written with the aid between the Petrine Office, Pastor is that the exercise of the primacy
of a conservative Italian Vatican of the universal Church, and the of power is not exempted from the
reporter—according to an American individual Bishops who are also communion in the Church, and that
journalist—Viganò’s letter alleges Pastors of the particular Churches. the Pope—as Head of the Church— Pope Francis in 2015 waves alongside Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano, then the apostolic nuncio to the
a papal cover-up in the Church’s Can.333, §1—The Roman Pontiff, cannot separate himself from the United States, right, outside St. Patrick in the City Church in Washington. BOB ROLLER/CNS
sexual-abuse scandal. So far, the by virtue of his office, not only has body of the Bishops or from the body
pope has insisted to reporters that power in the universal Church of the universal Church. It is in this It is not the conclave that gives the universal Church during a sede
he would not “say a single word but also possesses a primacy of context alone that one can speak elected pope his power. Rather, God vacante or sede prorsus impedita
about” the letter, which has left him ordinary power over all particular of the limits of the Pope’s power of himself gives him that power, but Can.335—When the Roman See is
in a painful situation. Churches and groupings of churches jurisdiction. making use of a conclave to elect the vacant or entirely impeded nothing
Asked to comment on this by which the proper, ordinary and person whom He will give that power is to be innovated in the governance
controversy, I posted the following immediate power which bishops Acquisition and Loss of Papal (subject to the elected person’s of the universal Church; however,
in social media: There are processes possess in the particular churches Power acceptance). Thus, it is wrong to special laws enacted for these
to be followed and the Pope is doing entrusted to their care is both Acquisition of Papal Power— claim that the Pope is answerable circumstances are to be observed.
that. Trial by publicity, even in civil strengthened and safeguarded. The Roman Pontiff obtains full to the persons who elected him; In the first place, c.335 lays down
law, is not acceptable. In Canon This paragraph of c.333 establishes and supreme power in the Church both the conclave and the Pope are the general principle: Sede vacante
Law, which puts a far greater worth the two important aspects regarding by means of legitimate election answerable only to God for what they nihil innovetur—which is applicable
to personal dignity, publication the extension of papal power: accepted by him together with have done and do. also to the dioceses and particular
of an ongoing investigation is 1) The Primacy of the Roman episcopal consecration (c.332, §1 in Churches (c.428, §1).
detestable. That is what I detest Pontiff extends not only over the principio). Thus, two elements must Loss of Papal Power. The papal In the second place, it remits to
about Abp. Vigano’s approach. And universal Church in its totality, concur for the full constitution of office can be lost only in two ways: special laws the regulation of the
to ask for the resignation of the Pope but also to each and every one papal power: 1) Death—This is the most juridical government of the universal
betrays lack of understanding of the of the particular Churches and 1) Legitimate election followed common and is so obvious that the Church during the two situations
theologico-canonical nature of the groupings thereof. This is really by acceptance by him. Because CIC does not even mention it. mentioned:
Petrine Office. nothing else but a manifestation of there is no one superior to the 2) Resignation—This is the 1) Sede vacante—This is the
In this second installment of the immediate character of the Pope who could confer the office or only case considered by c.332, §2, Office / B7

Blessings and affiliations


(Father Edward McNamara, professor of liturgy and dean of theology at the Regina Apostolorum university, answers the following query:)
Q: Ever since the motu proprio “Summorum Blessing of the Rosary of St. Joseph; blessing of water in honor of St. Ignatius, Confessor in the life, spirit, and mission of the Passionist
Pontificum,” the Rituale Romanum, which was of the Ring of St. Joseph In practice, many of these blessings are still family.
in use until 1962, may be used. Additionally, — Reserved to the Order of Our Lady of used primarily by members of the religious “Our purpose is above all to gain a deeper
the 1965 instruction “Inter Oecumenici” lifted Mercy for Ransoming Captives: Blessing order in question since they are usually love and understanding of the Passion of
the reservations on many blessings which are and investiture with scapular of Our Lady of granted to people who have some direct Christ and then to apply it to the crucified
contained in the Rituale and were reserved Ransom; blessing of water for the sick in honor contact and association with the spirituality of today: to ourselves, to the physically and
for members of certain congregations. Some of St. Raymond Nonnatus; blessing of candles of the congregation. mentally ill, and to all who are experiencing
of those blessings were given when someone in honor of St. Raymond Nonnatus; blessing Others, such as the use of the Carmelite Christ’s Passion in their lives in any way.
was being formally admitted into a fraternity of oil in honor of St. Serapion, Martyr scapular and the Miraculous Medal, are Furthermore, members are to assist and
or a general affiliation to a spiritual family. — Reserved to Clerks Regular for Care of the used by many devout Catholics not directly strengthen each other in their desire to draw
With the lifting of the reservations, is the Sick: Blessing and investiture with scapular of associated with the respective religious order. closer to God through Passionist spirituality
admission into such an affiliation possible for Our Lady, Health of the Sick The question our reader poses regards and share in all the good works, prayers
every priest who performs those blessings? — — Reserved to the Hermits of St. Augustine: the situation in which the blessing and/ and indulgences of Passionist communities
B.W., Klagenfurt, Austria Blessing and investiture with scapular of or investiture formed part of the induction throughout the world.
Our Lady of Good Counsel; blessing and ceremony that affiliated the person into a “The Confraternity of the Passion of Christ
A: We addressed the question of reserved investiture with the cincture in honor of the fraternity or third order of the spiritual family is open to all, men and women, single and
blessings in a column on May 17, 2016. In Blessed Virgin Mary connected to the blessing. married, to anyone who feels God is calling
that piece, we mentioned that the blessings — Reserved to the Order of Friars Minor I would say that a distinction must be made. them to the Passionist way of life.
formally reserved to members of certain Capuchin: Blessing and investiture with Membership in any association in the Church “To become a member of the Confraternity
religious congregations could now be imparted scapular of St. Joseph, Spouse of Mary and is determined by the statues of the association of the Passion of Christ it is necessary to make
by any priest. These blessings were principally: Patron of the Universal Church itself. a personal commitment to cultivate in oneself
— Reserved to the Order of Servites: — Reserved to the Order of Minims: Blessing For example, according to the website of the devotion to the Passion of Christ and through
Blessing and erecting stations of the Sorrowful and investiture with wool cincture in honor of Carmelite order: it to grow more deeply in faith and love of God
Mother in honor of Our Lady of the Seven St. Francis of Paola “The Carmelite Third Order is divided and one’s neighbor. It is also required that
Dolors; blessing and investiture with the black — Reserved to the Order of Preachers: into communities, fraternities or sodalities one’s name be entered on the membership list.
scapular of Our Lady of Sorrows; blessing of blessing of cinctures in honor of St. Thomas which are accompanied by the superiors of “By joining the Confraternity, a person
the rosary of the Seven Sorrows Aquinas for preservation of chastity; blessing the Carmelite Order or their delegates. These assumes no strict obligations, but there is a
— Reserved to the Order of the Holy Trinity of rosaries of Our Lady; blessing of roses for groups are instituted by the Prior General of Rule of Life as a guide and some recommended
for the Ransoming of Captives: Blessing and the Society of the Rosary; blessing of candles the Carmelite Order according to the law of practices.”
investiture with scapular of Blessed Trinity; for Rosary Society; blessing of water with the the Church with the previous approval of the Other associations and fraternities would
blessing of the rosary or Trisagion of the Most relics of St. Peter the Martyr; blessing of palms local Bishop. have similar rules.
Holy Trinity or other foliage on the feast of St. Peter the “Those who wish to be members of the From this, it is clear that one may not
— Reserved to the Congregation of Martyr; blessing of water for the sick in honor Carmelite Third Order must be practicing become a third order Carmelite or be inducted
Passionists: Blessing and investiture with of St. Vincent Ferrer. Catholics. They must not be members of any into any other approved association of faithful
the black scapular of Our Lord’s Sacred Cross — Reserved to the Congregation of the other Third Order or Secular Institute, except just by receiving the prescribed blessing from
and Passion Missions: Blessing and investiture with sacred in special cases, and they must be at least 18 any priest. This would be true even when the
— Reserved to the Congregation of the medal of Mary Immaculate, commonly known years of age. After a period of initial formation, previously reserved blessing still forms part
Missions: Blessing and investiture with the as the Miraculous Medal; blessing of water for candidates are accepted for profession.” of the induction ceremony of the association.
red scapular of Our Lord’s Passion and Sacred the sick in honor of St. Vincent de Paul The Passionists have an analogous The person would still be able to receive the
Heart, and of the Immaculate Virgin’s Loving — Reserved to the Order of Camaldolese: association, albeit with looser requirements spiritual graces tied to the rite of blessing as
and Compassionate Heart Blessing of the rosary of Our Lord for entry: well as those corresponding to wearing the
— Reserved to the Theatines, Clerks Regular: — Reserved to the Congregation of “The Confraternity of the Passion of Christ scapular or medal, using the blessed water,
Blessing and investiture with the blue scapular Missionaries of the Precious Blood: Blessing is a society of lay men and women dedicated rosary etc.
of the Immaculate Virgin Mary of rosaries of the Precious Blood in a special way to the contemplation of the However, since any priest may now give
— Reserved to the Order of Discalced — Reserved to the Order of the Holy Savior: Passion of Jesus Christ — in Himself—in these blessings, the superiors of a group
Carmelites: Blessing and investiture with Blessing of rosaries of St. Bridget their own lives—and in the lives of others. St. associated with a formerly reserved blessing
scapular of Our Lady of Mount Carmel; — Reserved to the Order of St. Benedict: Paul of the Cross (1694-1775), founder of the would, at least in theory, be able to establish
blessing of water in honor of St. Albert, Blessing of the sick with a relic of True Cross Passionist Fathers, Brothers, and Nuns, began branches of the third order, confraternity etc.,
Confessor or the Sign of St. Maurus the Abbot the first Confraternity in 1755. He wanted as even where there are no priests of the religious
— Reserved to the Order of Carmelites: — Reserved to the Society of Jesus: Blessing many as possible of the People of God to share order present in the region.
CBCP Monitor September 17 - 30, 2018 Vol. 22 No. 19 FEATURE B3

‘What an enterprising industrious steward he was.’


(Homily delivered by Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio G. Tagle during the 45th death anniversary of Rufino
Cardinal Santos and the Raising of Galero in his honor at the Manila Cathedral on September 3, 2018)
MY dear brothers and sisters they are God’s not the servants. each one’s abilities and God has
in Christ, we thank God for this They do not become the property entrusted to each one gift according
occasion that He has given to us to of the servant, they remain the to one’s abilities.
be gathered as one community and property of the master and so they My dear brothers and sisters, what
as one family. are technically not given to the were the gifts of God entrusted to
In this Eucharistic Celebration, servants, they are entrusted to you? Do you appreciate those gifts?
we remember our beloved Cardinal the servant. That’s God’s share, Do we recognize those gifts? And
Rufino J. Santos, who on this day, 45 entrusting to everyone talents and do we think of them as simply gifts
years ago passed on to eternal life. later on St. Paul would even say, “In temporarily entrusted to us? The
We thank all of you especially his the Church, God distributes different real owner will ask for an accounting
friends and former collaborators gifts,” some are apostles, some are for those talents are not ours they
for coming to this Eucharist. In a prophets, some are teachers, some are Gods. Which brings us to our
special way, we thank his family, speak in tongues, some interpret the role, God has His role, we have our
may we ask the family to please tongues, some are good in charity, role, we have large space to work on
stand, huwag na ho kayong mahiya. some administer goods, there are and hopefully, it will be occupied
(Family members of Cardinal Santos so many gifts but entrusted, merely by us with the spirit of industry, the
was recognized) entrusted to the servants. spirit of eagerness to develop the
Thank you very much for coming. And what a good master we have, gifts that have been entrusted to us
Thank you for sharing Cardinal according to the gospel, God entrusts There is no room for passivity,
Rufino to the wider family of the the talents to everyone according mediocrity, laziness that will be
Church. I know that among the to his or her ability. God does not wasting the beautiful gifts coming
priests concelebrating, we have I expect from everyone the same from God. But if we look at the three
don’t know how many, who were output, God knows our capacities. persons, how come, two develop the
ordained by Cardinal Santos, so sila When I was rector of the seminary, gifts entrusted to them so that when
po yung living signs of the ministry, I was asked to handle the community the master returns, Wow they were
the Presbyteral ministry that has choir not because I am schooled in able to double those talents, what
been handed on from generation to music but there was no choice, and it made them do that whereas the
generation, from Cardinal Santos to seemed that if others have very little third servant just buried the gift and
them and now to us. gift of music, I have a little bit more returned the gift as is.
I know that a homily in the entrusted to me, so it was just, well, “I received one, I return to you
commemoration of a departed “pangangailangan.” You know, there one.” Whereas the first who received
should not be a eulogy. There is a where school years where practically five was able to give back ten and the
difference between a homily and a all the seminarians were entrusted one who receives two was able to give
eulogy. So I better shift to the homily with the gift of music, they could back four, the one who had one just
The readings chosen for our sing even in harmony. returned it one piece. What was the
commemoration for Cardinal But there were school years when difference? Ah, the difference among
Santos are appropriate not only they better recite poems rather than the three is their relationship with
for remembering him but they are hum tunes. And when you have big the master, it is not lack of ability,
appropriate for us who are still here occasions like an ordination, the all of them have abilities but what
and are facing the journey towards blessing of a church, you need a enables someone to develop the gifts
eternal life. choir, and they want, they preferred if there is a healthy relationship with
The gospel according to St. the seminary choir, then what do I the master.
Mathew could easily be interpreted do? I cannot force a community that The two first servants wanted
or even least interpreted as a gospel did not receive the gift of singing to do with the gifts as the master
Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle witnesses the raising of the galero in honor of his predecessor Cardinal Rufino
about how to do or engage in good to sing. had wanted, they were always in Santos, the first Filipino Cardinal and the one who led the rebuilding of the Manila Cathedral postwar.
and worthwhile investments. But That’s one of the anomalies of harmony with the will of the master, PHOTO FROM THE MANILA CATHEDRAL
that is missing the point, the key our time, people force themselves even when the master had gone away
lines of this gospel are, “Well done into positions for which they don’t for a trip, the master never left their living relationship with God we will exposed that they were helping, the
good and faithful servant, come have gifts. You have choir members minds and their hearts, he was not waste the many, many gifts of time, archbishop was helping, the priest
share your master’s joy!” That’s who cannot sing, you have finance absent. Whereas the third servant talent, resources, relationships, the prisoners, he assumed, Father
the end of the journey, but this is officers who cannot count, you have was afraid of the master, there was ultimately it is what St. Paul says Santos assumed the responsibility
risky to one servant the master said, law enforcement officers who do not no human interaction. He looked “We live for the Lord, we die for the and he was sent to prison.
“You wicked lazy servant, throw this know the meaning of the law, you at the master as someone severe, Lord. He could have shied away from
useless servant into the darkness have peacekeeping forces who do judgmental, and so he was not Whether in life or in death, that responsibility, he could have
outside, where there will be wailing not know peace, but what are they motivated to serve the master. whether in good times or in bad said, “Not me, not me I’m just a
and grinding of teeth.” our eternal doing there? God is better, God gives It is this profound relationship, times, I will not waste any gift. I do treasurer… it’s the bishop, it’s the
destiny, either, the master’s joy and or entrusts talents according to their personal relationship with the this for love of God and I do this for bishop!” No, you could see the
glory or a place of wailing, darkness abilities. master that makes us productive. I love of neighbor. God supplies us depth of his love for God, the church
and grinding of teeth. So to one with a greater ability, know some of you are married and with gifts, now our relationship with and his bishop. That’s the only
This is the point, where do we five talents where given to one two have children and grandchildren, I God will determine whether we will explanation for assuming guilt and
want our earthly journey to end? talents because that’s in harmony know how difficult it is to earn a living develop the gifts or waste the gifts. assuming pain. And then the war,
I’m sure all of us trust in God’s with his capacity, and to one, one but because of your relationship And it is in this spirit that we want the reconstruction after the war,
providence and mercy we all hope that was his capacity. Go is good, with your husband or with your to thank God in this singular gift wow! No mere mortal could do that.
in the God who understands human God entrusts talents to us without wife, because of your love for your entrusted to us—Rufino Cardinal This beautiful Cathedral, the 60th
frailty because God created us God asking for the impossible. We have children, you will do anything even Santos. And we want to believe that anniversary of the inauguration of
knows we are made of dust. a beautiful Filipino expression, “abot beyond your capacities. he had as a young seminarian as a this cathedral, we owe to Cardinal
We hope in God and God’s mercy kaya” Kung yan ang naaabot ng kaya It is not the talent of being priest, later on as a bishop and as Santos. Our Lady of Guadalupe
because Jesus Christ became one of mo, matutuwa na ang Diyos basta enterprising but it is your love that the first Filipino Cardinal. Minor Seminary, San Carlos
us and experience human weakness abutin mo ang kaya. And that’s the motivates you, that pushes you, even A profound relationship with Seminary, Pius XII Catholic Center,
and even temptations so He will spirit behind St. Paul’s injunction the meager gifts entrusted to you, God, for him to have survived, oh! the Asian Social Institute, Catholic
surely understand. Yes, there is a in the first reading, why do you you will develop out of love. That was Difficult times in the world and Charities which later on became
place that only God could occupy, judge your brother or sister? Why missing in the third servant. in the church. I do not envy him Caritas Manila, the Association of
there is a role in our human journey do you look down on your brother So my dear brothers and sisters, being a priest, secretary, treasurer Parochial Schools, to name a few.
that God occupies, and in the gospel, or sister? All of us will stand before the next question to us, how is our of the Archbishop of Manila during But remember the times
it is very clear, God entrusts to His the judgment seat of God and God relationship with God, the one who the war doing your humanitarian everything was in ruins and you
servants talents good things and will be merciful because God knows has entrusted gifts to us. Without a help secretly and then when it was Steward / B4

Homily of Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio G. Cardinal Tagle during the PCNE 5
Thanksgiving Mass at the Arzobispado de Manila Chapel, August 28, 2018
MY dear brothers and sisters, we thank God to us. the more important aspects of the law of God” dapat meron namang diyamante, dapat naman
for bringing us together in this Eucharistic cel- Let me start with the readings, in the Gospel instead of parang reinventing God’s law and may ano, ganyan” wala na kasi nahiwalay na
ebration though every Eucharist is a thanks- we hear about one of the most painful labels they make people believe that for God, this doon sa interior commitment.
giving. It is the supreme hearts of attitude and that any human being could get “hypocrite”. is the weightier thing. Parang ganon telling O yung aming cross—Pectoral Cross di ba
thanksgiving at this hour to give thanks. This Wala sigurong taong kapag sinabihan ng people, for God no washing of hands is more pectoral malapit sa puso. Kapag ang Cross
celebration is made more special because of “Hipokrito. Hipokrita” (ay ang isasagot ay) important than being merciful or for God, of Christ malayo na sa puso mo at ang puso
our memory of the 5th edition of PCNE. “Thank you”, isa ito sa pinakamasasakit observing the son of law na, “Do not work” is mo wala nang tatak ng Krus at ang puso mo
So, we thank God for all the people who na masabihan ka. But Jesus uses this word more important than healing a person who indigence na hindi na Krus kundi ano na puro
have made PCNE 5 an experience of Christ, Hypocrite deliberately and unfortunately he has been possessed by evil spirit. convenient, Ano ba ang madali? Ano ba ang
an encounter with the Lord, an encounter with uses this very often to Scribes and Pharisees And so, instead of teaching people about mga ganoon? then, the Pectoral Cross will
the Church and an encounter with the voice he uses it often to religious leaders, kaya God and God’s law, they’re really misleading become again another piece of jewelry rather
that calls us and sends us forth on the mission, minsan nakakalungkot ang mga batikos ni and presenting as God’s will what is really the than a living sign.
ever new mission in the ever-changing world. Hesus kalimitan sa mga religious leaders. human interpretation. And the other thing is, So, a good reminder of the interior of cleans-
And as we thank all of you, we have to es- Baliktad ngayon ang batikos natin sa labas, you are so, so particular the external of rituals, ing and worship that God wants us to render to
pecially, Bishop Ben (San Pablo Bishop Bue- kapag tayo binabatikos defensive, pero si He- of purity, and they forget to clean the heart. Him and this is in a way follow that in the first
naventura Famadico), thank you for coming. sus ang unang binabatikos yung mga leaders But it is not the external purity that really reading when in the time when people were
We thank all the benefactors, especially your of the temple and the experts in the law and pleases God, it is the interior cleansing. confused, Darating na ba si Hesus? Is it already
support to the priest who came in the first 2 there are many many many manifestations Sabi nga dito, “You’ve cleaned the outside the end na? Is it the coming of the Lord. Ang
or 3 days. , we thank the religious communi- of hypocrisy but with the Gospel today, it is a of your cup and dish but inside, full of cor- daming kumakalat na mga bali-balita, hindi
ties and Fr. Angel who represents the whole neglect of what is more important to God and ruption, of plunder and self-indulgence. Why lang ngayon nagsimula ang fake news, noong
Association (looking at Fr. Angel Cortes). substituting for the more important of human don’t you clean the inside first?” So hypocrisy panahon pa ni Saint Paul mayroon nang fake
And the PCNE Office and of Archdiocese of beings consider as important to God. is yun nga, pakitang tao, dito yung mga may- news. Some people pretending to be Saint Paul
Manila, those who were in media, those who Parang the people will pretend to know roong panlabas and then the inside which only even through a letter or through a verbal com-
were hidden, those who were seen, those were God through and through and the people will God sees is not appealing. munication invoking his name and authority.
not mention so lahat po ang Panginoon na ang pretend to defend God but be thank that it is But, this is a good reminder to us, again it Ang sinasabi ni Saint Paul dito, huwag
nagpapasalamat din sa ating lahat. God the true God that the people could face it is not calling for neglect of the external, ma- kayong magpadala sa ganyan, huwag kayong
I think it is not insignificant that we are hold- and prove it, but it is this over the caricature halaga yun especially in a world, in a faith, the magpadala sa mga sabi-sabi, huwag kayong
ing this thanksgiving mass on the Feast of St. of God or his or her creation of God. mission that uses a lot of symbols, of signs, don’t let your minds be shaken. Ang gulo-gulo
Augustine who is one of the great evangelizers; And to the two examples given is the Scribes sacraments. So, external manifestations are na nga sa labas pati sa loob ang gulo. Habang
his Theology came from his homilies, much of and the Pharisees were very particular about important but without the grounding and a magulo ang labas dapat ang loob mo matatag
his Theology were came from his homilies and the law, the kind who make details of the law, pure heart, they lose their significance. Ako kasi kung ang loob mo magulo rin, dumagdag
also in his biography, the confessions, unlike tinitimbang nila yung (inaudible). Napaka-mi- lagi kong sinasabi, ito ano ito yan (pointing ka pa sa gulo sa labas. At iyon ang ayaw na
today Theological words, are very scientific na nor details and for them that is the weightier at his ring) yang singsing ng Obispo is an ayaw nung mga nanggugulo sa labas, kapag
minsan hindi mo talaga maintindihan. Noon thing if I want to be pure before baptize if I external sign but it must be connected to the nakakita sila na mayroong loob na hindi na-
the source of Theology was the exposition of want to be considered as a follower of God. heart. That I am a committed person, I am gugulo pero tuwang tuwa sila kapag lahat ng
the word as food for the daily living, so spiri- But, the Scribes and Pharisees by being too committed to the gospel, I am committed to loob nagugulo rin nila, kakampi ka na nila sa
tuality, Leticia Devina, Theologizing them all meticulous with the law have forgotten the the kingdom of God. panggugulo.
like to the level of St. Augustine. weightier things of the law justice, mercy, If that connection is lost, then this stops So, Saint Paul is saying hold fast to the
And thank you it was instrumental on choos- fidelity. Jesus is not saying that the details of becoming a symbol, magiging jewelry lang truth, hold fast and encourage your hearts,
ing this day for our thanksgiving for the New the law should be directive but He says, “you yan at mamimili ka na (pointing at his ring) strengthen your heart by every good deed. So,
Evangelization, he who was an inspiration should have pay attention to the weightier, “Napaka-simple naman nito para sa Cardinal Manila / B7
B4 FEATURE September 17 - 30, 2018 Vol. 22 No. 19 CBCP Monitor

ANALYN PERUCHO /FILE PHOTO

Helping millennials to be temperate


By Bernardo M. Villegas through their increasingly sophisticated come in rapid fire fashion, justify another being related to temperance. The eagerness
smart phones) may exceed their capacity purchase, or could she continue to make do for knowledge is enriched when it is directed to
for reflection and judgement, making it very with what she already has. the service of others, such as the desire of some
PARENTS and educators are being told that difficult for them to achieve more balanced The use of the new technologies will depend millennials to learn all about fintech in order
the youth who belong to the Y (millennials) and proper forms of self-expression. Since a on the particular circumstances and needs of to help the unbanked among the poor to have
and Z (born after 2000) generations today wide variety of different stimuli may demand each one. Everyone, helped by the advice of access to credit and other banking services. I
are easily distracted, unable to focus on their attention (text messages, photos, music, more experienced mentors, has to find his or know of young professionals who have used
anything for more than a few minutes, and etc.), they face the risk of getting used to her own measure. It is important to always ask the contacts provided by the GoNegosyo
find it difficult to live the virtue of temperance. responding to them immediately, setting ourselves if we are being moderate. Emails, program of the Department of Trade and
Here again, let me say as an educator that aside the activity they are intending to carry for example, can be useful to stay close to a Industry to learn all about urban gardening
there is nothing inherently wrong with the out (especially serious study). Parents and friend, but if they become so numerous that so that they can help poor households grow
moral fiber or character of the youth. They educators must try their best to convince the they entail constant interruptions in our their own nutritious food and even produce
may manifest some of these weaknesses of young that silence too is part of the process work or study, we would probably be already a surplus for sale to augment their meagre
character, not because they are inherently less of communication. It opens up moments of falling into frivolity and wasting time. It is incomes. This constant desire to learn new
capable of virtue than the baby boomers or reflection that enable them to absorb what self-mastery that can help us overcome our things should be distinguished from a restless
the X generation, but because of the pressure they have perceived and to give an appropriate impatience and to leave the answer for later, concern for what is happening in the world,
that the digital age is exerting on them. As response. Pope Francis asked people to pray so we can devote ourselves to a task requiring with a curiosity shown, for example, in the
described in a recent article that appeared that “the men and women of our time, often concentration, or simply pay attention to the desire to be informed about everything and
in www.opusdei.org entitled “Interior Quiet overwhelmed by the noise around them, may person with whom we are talking. To develop not wanting to miss a single thing. This can
in the Digital Age,” all of us, not only the rediscover the value of silence and know how the virtue of temperance in the use of digital only lead to superficiality and intellectual
youth, are bombarded with an ever-increasing to listen to God and their brothers and sisters.” technologies, one can limit internet access to dispersion. One should always resist the
volume of constantly available information. It may be easier said than done but there specific times, deciding in advance the number temptation of setting aside an obligatory task
We no longer are surprised to receive news is no alternative to teaching the youth to of times a day we will check social media or study project in order take up another “less
from faraway places in real time (as in the case learn how to guard their external (their eyes or look at emails; disconnecting electronic profitable study,” such as checking the latest
of the thirteen Thai youth trapped in a cave and ears) and internal senses (memory and devices at night; avoiding their use during news or replying to an email.
or the World Cup matches in Russia). This imagination) in order to attain the interior meals and when greater recollection is called Besides helping us devote some time during
rapid supply of facts poses to us especially the recollection that allows them to put their for, such as during days of a spiritual retreat. the day to conversing with our Creator, silence
challenge of how to manage correctly so much attention into the work at hand. This applies It is advisable to access the Internet only at also leads us to be attentive to others and
information from so many different sources. especially to the use of the electronic media, appropriate times and places, so that we do reinforces fraternity, enabling us to recognize
Because they are still in the formative stages which like all material goods, should be used not end up surfing the web without a specific people who need help, charity and love. Pope
of their character, the youth have a special in moderation. The virtue of temperance is an purpose, and thus run the risk of encountering Francis invites us to “recover a certain sense
difficulty meeting this challenge. ally in the preservation of our inner freedom sites that contain immoral content or at least of deliberateness and calm. This calls for time
Those of us who are older may have already as we enter the digital world. To make right involve a total waste of time. and the ability to be silent and to listen…if we
developed certain good habits of cultivating a choices in the use of electronic devices and The youth of today must be especially are genuinely attentive to listening to others,
reflective attitude which enables us to cope with services, even when these are free, we must convinced that learning for them is necessarily we will learn to look at the world with different
the growing amount of information available consider not only their appeal or utility, but a lifetime process. They must have the habit eyes and come to appreciate the richness of
and discern the data that is truly worthwhile. also whether or not they are in keeping with of constantly studying new things to cope human experience as manifested in different
The easily impressionable young, however, a temperate lifestyle. One must ask herself if with the exploding amount of knowledge that cultures and traditions.” More than ever in
may find it more difficult to cope with such an the device or the app will help her make better scientific advances bring with them. This the digital age, we must rediscover the value
information explosion. The speed with which use of her time, or will it simply be a source of habit of study, which directs the desire for of silence. For comments, my email address
information is communicated (especially distractions. Do the additional features, which knowledge to higher goals, is usually seen as is bernardo.villegas@uap.asia.

Steward / B3

have to build again. He must have trusted the share your master’s joy.” in Bulacan to stage their own revolt. assigned to my hometown Imus. So I
Lord so much, he must have known that it was That’s our hope for him and we also hope But the revolutionaries 122 years ago first announced there at 6:30 this morning that this
not his gifts and God’s mighty hands at work that we will have inherited this beautiful attacked the Imus Cathedral but the Spanish place, Father Rufino Santos started his priestly
and we are just stewards. legacy from God through the hands of Cardinal priest had already escaped so they were not ministry as an assistant priest, I said my first
But what an enterprising industrious Santos will be as responsible, as loving as he able to harm anyone. But every year on the mass today is here in Imus Cathedral and my
steward he was. And so we hope, we hope, not was. third day of September, the battle of Imus is evening mass will be in the Manila Cathedral
only now but 45 years ago at a young age of On a personal note, I went to Imus early this commemorated and what a coincidence, after to remember Cardinal Rufino Santos.
65 and 8 days when he passed on to face the morning because today is the 122 anniversary his studies in Rome, as a seminarian and his The master has a good story to tell even on
master who has entrusted to him so much, we of the battle of Imus which was the first ordination in Rome, Father Rufino Santos was this day. Let us pause and open our hearts
hope that Rufino –not anymore bearing titles, triumph of the revolutionaries in Cavite. assigned as assistant parish priest of Imus to the master who entrusts to us so many
father, bishop, cardinal but simply the servant Which led to other revolts in the province Cavite. And after a few months, as the parish blessings and we ask for the grace for a deep
Rufino, we hope he heard the sweetest words, of Cavite, some historians even said that the priest in Bulacan. love of the Lord and of the Church so that we
“Well done good and faithful servant, come to battle of Imus encouraged the revolutionaries Freshly ordained priest in Rome, being would not waste any of those gifts.
CBCP Monitor September 17 - 30, 2018 Vol. 22 No. 19 STATEMENTS B5

Conservation and sustainable use of marine biological


diversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction
(Opening Statement by H.E. First, apply a “responsibilities-
Archbishop Bernardito Auza based” perspective rather than
Apostolic Nuncio, Permanent a “rights-based” one. Although
Observer of the Holy See to the economic benefits and equity are at
United Nations, at the First the heart of any debate regarding
session of the Intergovernmental resources, care for our oceans and
Conference on an international the many life forms they hold must
legally binding instrument under be at the center of our regulatory
the United Nations Convention approach.
on the Law of the Sea on the In implementing the term “due
conservation and sustainable use regard for the interests of other
of marine biological diversity in States” as used in the convention,
areas beyond national jurisdiction; obligations of States and their
New York, 4 September 2018) nationals are central.
Second, acknowledge the
MADAM President, differences between our two distinct
In his Encyclical Letter “Laudato mandates of conservation and
Si’, On Care for our Common sustainable use. The application of
Home,” Pope Francis underlined conservation measures for the most
the importance of the rule of law on part take away or restrict currently
a global scale to stop the ecological held rights to engage in ocean activity,
destruction of our earth. The Holy whereas sustainable use measures
See believes that regulations to are generally applicable where
protect our environment are not commercial parties are seeking
only a moral imperative but are permission for future initiatives.
a vital solution to a dire situation The current regulatory structure is
requiring immediate action. To built on a “use” model and therefore
reach our shared goals of the recognition of this difference will Archbishop Bernardito Auza, the Vatican’s permanent observer to the United Nations, greets people prior to a prayer service Sept. 11 at Holy Family Church
conservation and sustainable use keep us from undermining existing in New York City. The service, hosted by the Vatican’s permanent observer mission to the U.N., was held on the eve of the opening of the 72nd session of the
of marine biodiversity, there is structures. U.N. General Assembly. GREGORY A. SHEMITZ/CNS
need for an agreement with a long- Third, focus on the promotion of
term strategy for healthy renewal cooperative research, study, and Fifth, distinguish and regulate environmental impact assessments, because of the changing perception
and development of the oceans analysis of ocean resources, and in accordingly between “access to” which is a procedural measure, but with respect to the roles of the public
that builds on the existing UN particular, water, the greatest and and “use of” resources. “Access,” require States to understand the and private sectors.
Convention on the Law of the Sea. most important resource in the for the purposes of marine scientific nature of the likely harm and take With respect to natural resources,
Madam President, given the ocean. Promotion of research and research or shipping, for example, preventive steps. For example, the activity and investment, over time
geographic location of areas beyond technology could piggyback on the should be controlled only to ensure agreement could require States to this pattern repeats itself. Just
national jurisdiction (ABNJ), inevitable aspects of the sustainable cooperation, organize competing prevent or suppress the financing, as monarchs financed the first
scientific and commercial activities development of resources by interests, and prevent any harm to sale or supply of technology, or other early explorers to the Americas,
are at the core of this agreement. accessing related funding, framing the marine environment that could commercial transactions that pose government investments were later
The agreement should be broad improved licensing and business be caused by it. “Use” on the other a significant risk of contributing replaced by private commercial
in application not only to fill the concepts, and harnessing the power hand, should be fully regulated, to prohibited activities that may enterprise – namely, the Dutch
gaps in the present regulatory of commercial activities to include not only to prevent harm to the harm the common environment. East India Company. Law should
framework and not undermine research and technology as a “cost marine ecosystem, but to weigh the This gives a substantive role to due be made with this pattern in mind,
the existing zonal, sectoral and of doing business” in areas beyond sustainability of the use of particular diligence obligations and will ensure that public financing will give way to
regional structures, but to preclude national jurisdiction. ocean resources, the benefit of these that States employ an active interest private investment once the initial
the need to renegotiate a global Fourth, focus on resources rather to mankind, and the opportunity in reaching good results with respect work has been done, exploitation
agreement every time a new than on human activities, and cost of alternative uses, all the while to common areas far from shore. methods and a profit stream been
resource is discovered or a different distinguish between those resources giving “due regard” to the interests Madam President, with respect ascertained, and a level of certainty
commercial activity is pursued in with immediate economic value and of other States. to the Part XI Agreement, the been established regarding financial,
ABNJ. Therefore, as we deliberate those resources with potential value. Sixth, given that the areas to be background to the informal legal and environmental risks.
during this first session on the Generally, those with a potential regulated are far from shore, consider consultations on the UN Division Mankind’s need for resources
four specific elements of marine value are sustainable and renewable, not only “risk mitigation” measures, for Ocean Affairs and Law of the suggests that the “Blue Economy”
genetic resources, area-based for example, wind, solar, water, and but “risk prevention” measures, Sea website states that in the eight is poised for momentous growth. It
management tools, environmental most genetic resources, whereas including the use of economic tools years following the Convention’s is our mandate to anticipate these
impact assessments and capacity those with an immediate value that do not require monitoring, adoption, political and economic resulting changes, prioritize life in
building and transfer of technology, such as living things and minerals like area-based management tools changes have transformed the all its forms and place our common
a practical approach might include have finite or limited quantity or at sea. This means that we should general economic climate toward home at the forefront.
the following six elements: availability. not only impose an obligation to do a more market-based economy Thank you, Madam President.

Towards a global pact for the environment


(Statement by H.E. Archbishop Bernardito how to address possible gaps in international its annotations, provides us with a good are relevant for this Working Group, my
Auza Apostolic Nuncio, Permanent Observer environmental law and environment-related framework for our discussions and the Delegation would like to propose a substantive
of the Holy See to the United Nations, at the instruments and, at the same time, to ensure Secretary-General’s report will give us agenda item that would tie the discussions of
Organizational session of the ad hoc open- and strengthen their implementation. additional material for consideration. While the Working Group to the work of the BBNJ
ended Working Group established by General Our interdependent world has made us focusing on the existing environmental laws and the ISA-led negotiations. The agenda item
Assembly resolution 72/277 of 10 May 2018 more conscious that lifestyles and models of and seeking their greater coherence, we must could be, for example, entitled “Consideration
entitled “Towards a Global Pact for the production and consumption in one part of not lose sight of the parallel processes dealing of the progress made in BBNJ and ISA
Environment”; New York, 5 September 2018.) the world impact, positively or negatively, the with the system of governance of the oceans, negotiations.”
environment in other parts of the world. This namely, the start of the substantive sessions Distinguished Co-Chairs,
DISTINGUISHED Co-Chairs, fundamental fact should motivate us to ensure of the intergovernmental conference on an It is my Delegation’s hope that this Working
The Holy See welcomes the establishment of that solutions are proposed from a global international legally binding instrument Group can bring renewed vigor to efforts
this ad hoc open-ended Working Group and perspective, and not simply to defend the under the United Nations Convention on at all levels to care better for our common
would like to thank you for convening this interests of a few countries. As Pope Francis the Law of the Sea on the conservation and home. We need a conversation that includes
organizational meeting to discuss the agenda has affirmed, “Interdependence obliges us to sustainable use of marine biological diversity everyone, because everyone must contribute
for its upcoming substantive sessions. think of one world with a common plan.”[2] in areas beyond national jurisdiction (BBNJ), to responding effectively to the environmental
The protection of the environment or “the Without prejudging the future whose opening session started yesterday, and challenges we face. It is important that this
urgent challenge to protect our common recommendations of the Working Group, the development of draft regulations on the process be transparent, consultative and
home,” as Pope Francis emphasized in his could a Global Pact for the Environment be exploitation of mineral resources in the Area, inclusive of the concerns of all States. My
Encyclical Letter Laudato Si’, “includes a this “common plan” that Pope Francis believes led by the International Seabed Authority Delegation wishes the Working Group every
concern to bring the whole human family the world needs? (ISA). success.
together to seek a sustainable and integral Distinguished Co-Chairs, Since both processes aim to create new
development.”[1] Part of this challenge is The provisional agenda, together with environment-related instruments and thus Thank you.

Responsible mining. But what have you really done?


A press statement of Philippine Misereor Partnership, Inc. (PMPI) on the occasion of the 2018 Mining Conference Philippines
commit to the protection of human and fishponds in Palawan. of the Local Government Units of suspended or cancelled are under
rights, responsible stewardship Meanwhile, a small island of Guiuan and the Province of Eastern the noses and tutelages of that
of the environment, promotion about 1,165 hectares of the coast Samar in light of the NIPAS Act prestigious Chamber.
of sustainable mining practice, of Guiuan, Eastern Samar called which prohibits acts of “Mutilating, We need to change the rules of
upholding good governance, and Manicani Island is host ‘til today defacing or destroying objects of the game! This means changing
contribute to nation building. The to an open-pit mine from past natural beauty...”, an Executive the law that governs the ENTIRE
declaration on responsible mining operations of Hinatuan Mining Order (EO 79) in effect which bans mining operations and the ENTIRE
was dated Sept. 23, 2010. Corporation (HMC), a subsidiary open-pit mining as well as mining mining corporations in this
Two years after the “Dapitan of Nickel Asia Corporation (NAC). in small island eco-systems, and country. That archaic Republic
Declaration”, a large fish kill incident The DENR formally granted a the Eastern Samar-wide Provincial Act 7942 – 1995 Mining Act has
in Lake Bato, MacArthur, Leyte was Mineral Production Sharing Ordinance No. 8 imposing an to be buried in its own mine-pit.
caused by mine wastes of Nicua Agreement (MPSA) on October indefinite moratorium on large- Since its implementation, the
Mining Corporation. Meanwhile, 28, 1992 to HMC. On September scale mining and logging operations performance of the mining sector
A MINING conference was Philex Pacdal Mines leaked 20.6 26, 1994, the island including in the province. Is this responsible has not contributed significantly
organized in 2010 by COREMin2 Million MT. of mine tailings to parts of the municipality of mining? to local economy in terms of GDP
or the Coalition for Responsible Balog and Agno River systems of Guiuan was declared as Guiuan With the above examples of and job generation but catastrophic
Mining, whose members include Benguet and Pangasinan on August Protected Seascapes and “Responsible Mining”, we cannot environmental and health damages
big mining corporations such as TVI 1, 2012. The mine spill was larger (in Landscapes through Presidential expect mining corporations to in the past. Remember Lafayette
Resource Development Phils. Inc. terms of volume) than Marcopper Proclamation No. 469. On October police their own ranks. An adoption Mining in Rapu-Rapu Island, Albay
Sagittarius Mines Inc.; Philex Gold Mining Corporation’s mine spill 28, 2017, HMC’s mining contract/ of “Towards Sustainable Mining” and Marcopper Mining Corporation
Philippines Inc., and Apex Mining in Marinduque’s Boac River. On MPSA expired, but prior to the (TSM) Principles made some 6,933 in Marinduque?
Co., Inc. The mining conference the same year, Citinickel Mines said date of expiration, HMC miles away in Canada by no less Action speaks louder than words.
published a manifesto called and Development Corporation’s attempted to file for a renewal of than the Chamber of Mines of the
“COREMin2 Dapitan Declaration” caused mine tailings spillage over the same mining contract with Philippines isn’t going to work. PMPI
which states that members will 6.8 hectares of agricultural lands endorsement from the members Not all mining operations - live, September 19, 2018
B6 REFLECTIONS September 17 - 30, 2018 Vol. 22 No. 19 CBCP Monitor

The need to reverse our value system Jesus, the ideal Servant Leader
25th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B (Mark 9:30-37)
25th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B (Mark 9:30-37) Grandparents’ Day, September 23, 2018
September 23, 2018
By Fr. Sal Putzu, SDB
By Msgr. Lope C. Robredillo, SThD

THE aspiration to rise above others It is for us Christians to prove


is deeply rooted in the heart of man. that this is not just a nice theory,
Its source is usually pride, and the or utopic aspiration. We have to
devil often succeeds in fanning it show in practice that to be ready
into arrogance, ruthlessness, and to serve is not to be servile.
oppressiveness. Humble service is not the inescap-
The members of Jesus’ core group able lot of idiots and of those who
(the apostles) were no exception to are not gifted with leadership quali-
this sinful inclination. Part of today’s ties. Christian service is, actually,
Gospel and similar passages (see Mk for those who have guts and quali-
9:34, Mt 20:20-24 and Lk 22:24) ties. It is for those who aspire to be
reveal to us this aspect of their weak great in the Kingdom of God. As
nature, which was riddled, like ours, Jesus taught us, humble service
with earthly ambitions, pettiness, is the sign of genuine, lasting
and envy. greatness.
Jesus helped them grow out All of these will not be without
of their craving for power and a price. The devil, the father of
authority through his example all pride and arrogance, cannot
and his patient exhortations. tolerate the challenge of sincere
(Aside from v. 35 in today’s pas- humility. He could not tolerate it
sage, see also Jn 13:3-5.12-17.) All in Jesus and he attacked him. He
of them, except Judas, gradually attacked the “Servant of the Lord”
assimilated his teaching and even- in the desert, but was defeated. (See
tually became living examples of Lk 4:13.) He dealt his last attack at
humility to their communities by Gethsemane and on Calvary, and
the way they exercised leadership. there, too, he was defeated by Jesus,
THE PERCEPTION THAT that obtains among the community on who was the greatest, the most By declaring that he had for it was on the cross that the
capitalism—an economic system members—peaceableness, leniency, important, among them, Jesus, who “come to serve, not to be Servant accomplished his mis-
characterized by private or corporate docility, richness in sympathy, overheard them, declared: “If anyone s e r v e d ” (Mt 20:28), J e s u s sion of service in behalf of all.
ownership of capital goods, private kindly deeds, impartiality, sincerity, wishes to rank first, he must remain launched the “Servanthood (See Mt 20:28.) The devil, routed by
decision, and competition on a free and justice (Jas 3:17). Without the last one of all and the servant Movement” as the new way of Jesus, now tries to take revenge on
market—is not necessarily the best them, a Christian community cannot of all” (Mark 9:35). Such a view being leaders in a community. us. It won’t be an easy battle for us.
economic system in the world is live in peace. There may be plenty of implies, of course, that the disciples The new “movement,” which began But if we fight with Christ,
not new. Karl Marx has shown as food, wine, clothing and fine things, must reverse the commonly accepted with him has a motto: “I’ll be a we shall also win with him,
its ugly head, and even presented but they would not live in harmony, values and, consequently, alter their servant!” Service done with for the Lord will not leave without
an alternative system distinguished because human passion, which gives thinking, behavior, and the way they love and out of love should be a prize the efforts exerted in being
for its emphasis on state control and rise to covetousness and jealousy, perceive the world and other people. the characterizing trait of the a servant like Jesus. For him, that
elimination of private property. But would prevail. Hence, it may be said The greatest person, far from being disciples of the “Servant of prize is called Resurrection and
the more than 70-year experiment that such a life is one that is lived one who has amassed power and the Lord and of all men.” This Ascension (see Heb 12:2); for us, it
of Russian Leninism and Stalinism according to the wisdom of God. wealth, is one who has offered his dynamic orientation is rooted in hu- will be the possibility of entering
proved that heaven is nowhere How is such a life attainted? life for the service of the community, mility and nourished with generosity heaven, the homeland of the Saints,
nearer under a Communist regime, Like the Russians of Gorbachev, who has looked after the needs of and love. God’s humble servants.
and therefore that one cannot take Christians must undergo a kind its members. This explains why
the alternative economic theory of perestroika, a form of value Jesus rejected the pagan values of
hook, line and sinker, for all its
avowed promises. It was for this
reason that Gorbachev advocated
reorientation. In fact, it calls for a
reversal of values. In our life that
is secularized, there are so many
power and domination. Though they
may be held in high esteem among
pagans, they have definitely no place
Learning from God to be
perestroika, the restructuring of
the system. For one thing, the
Russians after all had a desire
values that have to be reversed, but
our Gospel (Mark 9:30-37) focuses
on one value: the value of greatness.
in the Christian community: “You
know how among the Gentiles those
who seem to exercise authority lord
broad-minded
similar to the capitalists’: a better In our largely secular world, what it over them; their great ones make 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B (Mark 9:38-43; 47-48)
life, and integrity in life. On the is greatness? Who is the greatest? their importance felt. It cannot be National Seafarers’ Day, September 30, 2018
other hand, a shift to some form of It is common held that greatness like that among you. Anyone among
capitalism would cost the people is measured in terms of success. A you who aspires to greatness must By Fr. Sal Putzu, SDB
much. But if such a life is to be person is considered great if he has serve the rest; whoever want to rank
attained, some things have to be made it in business or in politics, if first must serve the needs of all”
given up, however central they are to he has accumulated vast wealth and (Mark 10:42b-43).
the political belief, such as too much power, if he has landed on the front To illustrate what it means to be
government control, and too much pages of Time or Newsweek. Having servant of the community, Jesus
state ownership. succeeded in life, they have even pointed to a little child (Mark
We, Christians, also speak of become untouchable. And people 9:37). Since in the Jewish society
a better life. In the 2nd Reading regard them as respectable, no at the time of Jesus, a child was
(Jas 3:16-4:3), James refers to it as matter the way they acquired their a symbol of the person who had
the Christian way of life that all of wealth and power. Thus, greatness no rights at all, whose importance
us must aspire for. That life is not is oriented toward what a person was not recognized, to accept a
simply characterized by freedom has: wealth, honor and fame. child is to accept anyone in the
from hunger and want, political But the Gospel holds a different community, however lowly, make
equality and participation. It is view of greatness. In the story about oneself available to him, suffer
rather known for the relationship the discussion among the disciples Value / B7

Tolerance and openness in face of differences


26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B (Mark 9:38-43; 47-48)
September 30, 2018
JESUS must have had a hard time some church people. Not a
By Msgr. Lope C. Robredillo, SThD
in forming his disciples. Their moral few have become experts in this
defects were continuously surfacing abominable form of witchcraft.
IF ONE LOOKS back to what everything that has to do with In effect, we cannot limit, nor claim in attitudes and acts which surprise Such an attitude is the total denial
happened in the former Soviet religion, the 1st Reading and the to know, the many ways by which us, when they do not scandalize of genuine faith.
Union in the early 1990s, one may Gospel share the view that we God shares his goodness with the us altogether. Their attempt to Faith is, first of all, humility.
probably assert quite convincingly should have tolerance and openness rest of humanity. What is obvious is stop a man from expelling It is the desire to let God be
that at the root of the upheaval in to those who differ with us. Our that where there is goodness, God is demons in the name of Jesus God. Let God be free – free to take
the Soviets was the search for a relationship with others, which at work, whether we like it or not. It just because he was not one His initiatives; free to use His gifts
way of life that would give comfort, arises from our relationship with would be presumptuous of us were of their “group” (see Mk 9:38), and people the way He thinks best.
contentment and security to the God, is to be informed by openness we to claim that God communicates reveals a “ghetto mentality” No one should dare attempt to limit
people. Was there a single formula and tolerance. In the first reading his goodness only through us, or absolutely incompatible with God’s presence to the structures to
to achieve it? This is a question that we are told that Moses bestowed through our Christian community. the universality of Christ’s which he/she belongs. Not even
has not been sufficiently answered the spirit on the gathered seventy We must admit that God is free message. when these structures bear God’s
even to date. Of course, under the elders who began to prophesy. But to share his goodness with other The roots of such an attitude are very name and seal, and have their
regime of Lenin and Stalin who Eldad and Meldad, who were not in than us. Regrettably, various sects pride, possessiveness, envy . . . . origin in Him.
rejected anything that had to do the gathering but had been left in the claiming to be rooted in Christ keep They try to thrive in the hearts of God is infinitely greater
with capitalism, the answer did not camp, likewise spoke in enraptured attacking each other, as if they had all men. Together, these negative than any earthly structure
surprise anyone: there was only a enthusiasm. Having known this, the monopoly of God’s truth or his tendencies blind many people into or vision. His wisdom follows
formula: the Communist formula. Joshua asked Moses to stop the two goodness. Yet, we find that in Num believing that they are the very best ways unknown even to the most
But after the collapse of the union, from prophesying, but the latter 22:28, God can make an ass talk. and should, as far as possible, remain perceptive of us. His love can
each of the republics seemed to answered, “Are you jealous for my In Isa 6:5, we read that the prophet “uncontaminated” by contact with use sinners to make saints
have had a different idea on just sake? Would that all the people had unclean lips, unworthy of being “lower races” or classes . . . . holier. It can make use of the
what kind of system would give the were prophets! Would that the Lord God’s messenger, and yet God This is one of the reasons fury of persecutors to purify His
people the kind of life they longed might bestow his spirit on them all!” used him to proclaim his message. why we put so many barriers very Church and render it more
for. For some, like Kazakhstan, (Num 11:29). In the Gospel, John Indeed, it is not incorrect to say that in our lives, and we see a detached, humbler, more faithful to
some form of union with Moscow and other disciples tried to exclude God is even at work among atheists. proliferation of barkadas, her Lord . . . .
was necessary. But for others, like a non-member from exercising the That is why we should be tolerant fraternities, syndicates, elitist Once we understand and accept
the Baltics, there was no substitute ministry of healing and exorcism in of those who are not part of our groups . . . whose main concern this fundamental Christian truth, we
for complete independence. To be the name of Jesus. But Jesus did Christian community, those who do seems to be the exclusion of the will be respectful of God’s freedom,
sure, what Lithuania did could have not stop the strange exorcist. On not share our views, and those who non-members. These are squalid and work for the fulfillment of one
invited the intervention of Moscow, the contrary, he warned the disciples disagree with us. What is decisive fortress of pride, individualism, of the most demanding petitions of
were it done 25 years before. One against arrogance, jealousy and is that their good words and deeds social discrimination, racism! . . . “The Lord’s Prayer”: “Your will be
easily recalls the tanks that rolled intolerance and challenged them come from God (see 1 John 4:1), When these forms of pride, envy, done!” God’s will, not ours! Then
when Yugoslavia attempted to break to open to others, for God rewards that is to say, they manifest God’s or self-exaltation try to find religious we will also be magnanimous
away from the union. But in the those who show even the small goodness. justifications, then we come very near toward those who do not share
decade that the USSR collapsed, the courtesies to those who teach in Indeed, within the Christian the impious attempt to monopolize our likings or display our
slogan of Gorbachev’s Moscow was Jesus’ name (Mark 9:38-41). community, there has to be room God and even lecture Him on how badge. And, at the same time,
glasnost, openness, tolerance. What do these stories signify? for openness and tolerance. And He should run the world. we will be very demanding with
Can this be said of Christianity? Reading the first Genesis account this is said not as a suggestion. For The temptation to monopolize ourselves, as the final verses of
Though some people would wish on creation (Gen 1:1-2:4), we notice tolerance and openness should in God and railroad His activity today’s Gospel passage forcefully put
that uniformity be observed in that all that is good comes from God. fact characterize the community. Of is a perennial danger with it. (See Mk 9:43.45.47.)
Tolerance / B7
CBCP Monitor September 17 - 30, 2018 Vol. 22 No. 19 SOCIAL CONCERNS B7

When children are set free


By Shay Cullen, MSSC
RECENTLY, we at the Preda in a playful demonstration of “being mistakes under the bad influence
Foundation have opened a new free.” Everyone laughed and enjoyed and bad example of uncaring and
home for troubled boys in Liloan a the moment. untrained adults but now you can
few kilometers outside Metro Cebu. The boys are living happily in a choose to live another positive way.”
This was possible with the help of our beautiful home in the countryside They listen with wide-eyed
supporters. The children in the Preda and finding and experiencing their wonder and can scarcely believe
homes can be 10 to 15 years old. They basic rights and joys that we, who this good news since they have
are not criminally liable yet jailed like have never suffered an injustice or hardly ever experienced being loved,
criminals. We rescue them and give been in conflict with the law or lost wanted, valued, supported, fed and
them a new start in life. our freedom, take for granted and cherished. Instead, they have been
I was talking to a group of these so hardly ever cherish and celebrate. rejected all their lives and told they
young boys who had been taken You may never value it until it is are a burden and pest to their family
out of filthy jails and sub-human taken away. and society and deserve punishment
conditions in the so-called youth The boys at the Preda Foundation’s and imprisonment.
detention centers or locked behind New Dawn Home for Boys in Conflict Now they are taught, “You are
bars in jails for children in the with the Law are not convicted and free here at the Preda New Dawn
Philippines. I have written this in not on trial. They are sent to get Home for boys. You can decide to
the past but it’s important to remind treatment and therapy and help for stay or leave. Know that you are of
people of how innocent the child is. troubled lives. They are free to run importance, of value and are good in
I told the boys now freed and safe wherever they want in the grounds. yourselves. Do not believe or think
at the happy Preda home: “You are There are no guards, steel bars, wire of yourselves as bad, criminal or
the children of God and the most cages and brutal treatment which useless young people, you are God’s
important in God’s family. That’s they experienced in the jails and children and the most important in Happy kids at Preda Home for Boys in Olongapo City.
why you are here, you are free and youth detention centers where they God’s family, Jesus said so.”
have rights and dignity.” Think of were locked up like animals without Hearing and knowing this good to achieve a better, happier life for painkillers, who is causing the pain?
God as the force of eternal goodness sunlight, exercise, education or news, each one, free of fear, no themselves and their future families How have you treated and spoken to
and the power of love of others and entertainment, affirmation or legal reprimand and punishment, they when they grow up. What attitudes them as they grew up?”
we of good will are united with that process. can develop self-awareness, self- they have today will be how they will I advise parents, “How is it then
force. It is the first time for them to consciousness and begin to grow treat others in the future. They must that your son is here at Preda and
They stared wide-eyed with experience such rights and respect as persons. It is a vital part of being learn and grow for the better. has never run away, does not steal,
incredulous looks of awe and and for them it is an amazing fully human and something they These are children and have been not taking drugs. Here, he is never
bafflement. They had just arrived wonder. We at Preda tell them the hardly ever experienced. They feel branded by parents and society as violent and is helpful, does his
and met the other boys. Jason, ten truth about themselves, “you are respected and valued and can have a worthless thieves, drug dependents duties, attends classes daily and
years old, jumped up, spread out good, you have rights and dignity, dream to reach a positive goal. They and social outcasts. But they are respects the staff and other boys?
his arms and began to spin around you have had a hard life and made are assured that they will be helped not. They have committed no crime, Is he at fault or perhaps there is a
just living abandoned on the streets problem in the home.” Parents have
surviving on their own. never been taught how to be good
Manila / B3
Normally, good children that are loving parents. In all schooling,
balik na naman doon sa puso hindi edi nakangiti naman ako hanggang was traffic advisory, ganoon “kasi misunderstood and unloved and there is no course on how to be a
pu-pwedeng maganda lang ang puso pumunta kami doon sa “The Place darating ang Pope, ito may traffic” branded as bad will likely become good parent.
kapag maganda ang nangyayari sa for Saint Ambrose” the Bishop So, parang it was a veiled way of
what they are called. Adults and What inspires and motivates the
kapaligiran, hindi. Mas pangit ang of Milan baptized Saint Agustin. saying, “kung hindi niyo gustong
nangyayari sa kapaligiran, dapat Naku, parang ayaw ko nang umalis maabala kayo, huwag na kayong parents must be careful never to youth at the Preda home for boys
mas payapa ang puso mo. Kapag parang gusto kong basahin lahat lumabas ng bahay”. It was a very physically, verbally or emotionally freed from detention is to know
nadala na ang puso mo, kakampi nung mga ano ni Augustine, parang veiled way of discouraging people abuse children. They will rebel and that their parents are willing to
ka na nila sa panggugulo. Ang hirap natagpuan ko dito yung “Where this from coming out, from welcoming find ways to retaliate. They feel cooperate and attend parenting
nito ano, ang hirap hirap pero it is heart found rest?” And while there and participating in the events, yung injustice like everyone else. seminars and to accept and admit
part of Christian dispensation to were external symbols of the water, ganoon. Tapos sabi nila baka mga At times I challenge parents of that they too have mistakes and
really offers to us and challenges salt, oil, the light – exterior, but 500,000 ang a-attend doon sa final troubled, unruly and drug-taking are willing to reconcile with their
us to be. what really matter was the heart of mass pero hindi naman, 300,000 children, how is it that your children child. The parent must change their
It is not an exterior cosmetic type Augustine, washed clean by Jesus. lang yung dumating. So, there was a were born innocent but have negative attitudes and love their
of change or renewal of transforma- And as we thank God for PCNE 5, young former seminarian who I met become rebellious like this? I ask children. This is what brings hope
tion. It is in that sacred heart of the siguro this is a good reminder that 3 years ago, he was looking for me
them, “Why do your children take and a new life to the children.
human being that only God sees all of us who worked for evangeli- kasi medyo hindi, medyo nagkagulo
and only God could touch directly. zation and we, who worked for the doon sa isang event and I was the
It’s one of the rules of discernment new evangelization let us also look next speaker. Sabi niya, “Pinagalitan Office / B2
coming from Saint Ignatius that “by into our hearts, the renewal of our ako kanina, pinagalitan ako nung situation that results when papal Diocese of Rome.
other persons” meaning mediations, hearts. Marami ngayon humihingi isang Cardinal, pinagalitan ako
power is lost either by death or valid (3) Specific applications of the
in order to enter our hearts, to touch ng tulong sa akin (inaudible) Phil- nung isang organizer” Sabi ko, “eh
our hearts, only God can touch it di- ippine Apostolic Congress of Mercy bakit ako ang hinahanap mo?” Sabi and legitimate resignation of the general principle: sede vacante
rectly and so we open this to God so and the Secretary asked if the good niya, “Gusto kong ngumiti. Gusto Roman Pontiff as previously described. nihil innovetur.
that the heart would be evangelized. people of PCNE could help them kong ngumiti kasi matatapos na The special law for this situation is the 2) Entirely impeded —No
It is the heart that will be touch by kasi sabi nila simple lang sa inyo yun yung event ito pa ang nangyari.” Apost. Const. Romano Pontifici canonical characterization is given
the good news. It is the heart that eh, ano na kayo magaling na kayo Sabi ko, “o ito mag-ngitiantayo.” eligendo (RPE), promulgated by separately for the Roman See, but
must be touch by the spirit who is dyan. Ako naman sabi ko, “Salamat (laughs) tuwang tuwa ako hinah- Paul VI in 1.X.1975. The juridical the norm given for all episcopal see
the agent, the primary agent of our naman at nakita niyong magaling anap niya dahil sabi niya, “Gusto government of the universal Church in general can be applied servatis de
evangelization. sila.” But, hindi lang yoon ganoon kong ngumiti.” Sabi ko, “Wow. I during this period, regulated in the iure servandis:
That’s why we need the memory of ang evangelization na, we have didn’t have to do and I didn’t have five chapters comprising the first part c.412—An episcopal see is
the Saints, they were people whose the skills, we have organizational to say anything pwede mo palang of this document, can be summarized understood to be impeded if by
hearts, whose persons, whose lives templates and coaches. In the end mapangiti ang isang tao.” Sabi ko,
as follows: reason of captivity, banishment,
have been really transformed by it is the heart, it is the heart that “Ayan kilala ko yan, talagang maini-
their encounter with the Lord. And is evangelized and will evangelize tin ang ulo niyan, eh anong gagawin (1) The government of the exile or incapacity, the diocesan
that makes them that make them such that, even in a person and ko? Tapos nagsumbong ka pa sa universal Church is entrusted to the bishop is wholly prevented from
really effective bearers of the good even Father Hontiveros who wrote akin eh may talk pa ako baka masira College of Cardinals, but only for fulfilling his pastoral function in the
news than that hypocrites. during his mayday. So many kinds pa yung talk ko, kaya kalmado lang ordinary and urgent matters, while diocese, and cannot communicate
Hindi tayo nagkakaroon ng ser- of liturgical songs that enable many tayo, halika magkape tayo, ganyan” preparing what is necessary for the with the people of his diocese even
emonya sa loob para (inaudible) Filipinos up to know to praise God And in the evening I send him a text election of a new Pope. by letter.
opo ililista natin ang mga bagong in our own language, he had a stroke (inaudible) sabi niya “this is not an (2) The key administrator No special norm for the juridical
hypocrites (inaudible) ang ano ng and the gift of speech is taken away exaggeration after our conversation for the day-to-day affairs of the government of the universal Church
Simbahan ay canonization, to call from him. Sabi ko nga, imagine the on the coffee break I really smiled universal Church is the Camerlengo in this situation exists either; hence,
on people, to come together in order person who opened the minds of the whole day”. Sabi ko, “Yun lang
or Chamberlain, assisted by what is laid down by the RPE for the
to see how the power of the spirit many Filipinos who say now… who pala ang kailangan ng Irish people,
and the word of God can transform only say, “Okay. Okay. Okay.” “Ku- pangitiin sila pero parang ayaw na three other cardinals; while the case of sede vacante can be applied,
and repair into sanctity, holiness musta ka na?” “Okay.” “Gusto mo nilang humanap ng dahilan para administration of the diocese of servatis de iure servandis. (To be
and mission to become missionar- bang kumain?” “Okay.” Puro okay, makangiti.” Rome falls on the Vicar for the concluded.)
ies, to become real evangelizers in okay ‘no. But it was in that moment, But the very vision coverage of the
the world. in those years of parang disability World Meeting of Families did not Value / B6
So, humihingi tayo ng tulong kay that we saw his heart. even present the many workshops even for the scum of the earth, and system, and once we begin to see
San Agustin, si San Agustin – Saint Not anymore the things that he about the families. Paulit-ulit sexual recognize oneself as no better than that greatness lies in service to the
Agustin was a person who was in could do and accomplish. We saw abuse, sexual abuse, what will the the marginal in the community. community, then we will no longer
touched with his heart. He was a the purity of the heart of this man, Pope say, what did the Pope say. Having this attitude, we no longer crave for these secular values, and
restless heart, his heart was restless. I saw him most as a religious and As though that’s the only thing aspire for greatness in terms of real peace in the community will
But maybe one of his virtues was he (inaudible) but he could not teach (inaudible) so while it’s a grave power, wealth, fame or importance. be secured. Of course, like the
follow the restlessness of his heart. anymore, where he could not play matter that must be addressed but Indeed, what makes it difficult for Russian perestroika that was not
Go forth, parang by trying to pursue the organ anymore, where he could it becomes a fixation and then fake
that restlessness he ended up in a not sing anymore. That’s when I saw news na making it worse than what us to realize an authentic Christian wholly acceptable to many soviets,
not so pleasant company but he was him poor, obedient and chased with it really is. life is our aspiration for these secular a Christian reversal in thinking
sincere in following the resting place joy and beating from the heart kaya So we pray and then tapos sabi values. They inflame our passion, and acting would entail much pain,
of his restless heart. Where will he sana hindi tayo masabihan, “You nila hanggang ngayon daw yung and, as James observes, “where do and would even be unpalatable to
find rest? Until he found Jesus and hypocrites.” ibang dioceses who were visited by the conflicts and disputes among many, for it would unsettle them
it was not an external encounter. So, bago pa tayo masabihan, lini- the Pope hanggang ngayon nagba- you originate? Is it not your inner from their comfort and privilege.
My, our hearts are restless until they sin na natin yung loob. Let us return bayad pa ng expenses. Nagulat ako cravings that make war within your But then, we have to undergo this
rest in thee. to the weightier things of God’s com- kasi when Pope Francis came (to members? What you desire you process if we wish to achieve the
So it begins with the heart rest- mand and God’s law, justice, mercy, the Philippines), we had an excess do not obtain, and so you resort to real Christian way of life, even as
ing in Jesus and from there all the fidelity and the inner strength that (fund). Sabi ko, “sinong nagsabing murder. You envy and you cannot Jesus had to be delivered into the
good words, all the good shepherd, in the midst of sins, in the midst of third world tayo ano?” Third-world
acquire, so you quarrel and fight” hands of men and put to death in
all of the teachings comes from the fake news, in the midst of all corrup- people could be more generous.
heart finding its rest in Jesus and tion, blessed are pure of heart. Jesus Hindi makapaniwala yung isang (Jas 4:1-2b). order to achieve the glory of the
we cannot discard the role of his would always (inaudible) We see Cardinal sabi niya “So what did you But once we reverse our value resurrection (Mark 9:31).
mother, Monica. Who was just like God from the heart and if the heart do to the excess?” sabi ko “We of- Tolerance / B6
the first reading was bombarded by is not pure, sorry hindi mo makikita fered it to the Pope, for the Pope’s
course, differences always arise. In God, we must not allow ourselves
so many concerns yung asawa niya ang Diyos. So, as we thank you. We charity but the Pope said, “Leave it
philander, yung anak niya parang challenge ourselves to obey God’s there in the Philippines and use it Paul, there are two things that are to stand between Christ and other
(inaudible) but the heart of Santa word to evangelize us. for charity.” So ang dami pa nating important in Christian relationship, people when it comes to the work
Monica found strength and stability And for the final note, let us pray natulungan but it said, “Gift of Pope when it comes to differences within of salvation. Doing so would be
in God, in prayer. All that 30 years of uh, for the church, nanggalin lang Francis” pati sa Myanmar nakapag- the church. First, whatever is said scandalous, and as the Markan
praying with tears led to that glori- ako sa Dublin, the homeland of padala tayo. or done is a witness to Christ; it Jesus puts it, “it would be better
ous day. Sabi nga nila, Santa Monica Tita Beth (one of the benefactors) So, alagaan natin ang ating puso proclaims the risen Lord. If it is if anyone who leads astray one of
prayed hard and long for Saint Au- Pero parang nalulungkot ako kasi para may generosity, may ngiti, consistent with Christ, we can be these simple believers to be plunged
gustine and as the conversion of I became part of the preparatory mayroong calm in the midst of sure that its inspiration comes from in the sea with a great millstone
Saint Augustine, it was his turn to committee here for the Pope’s visit storms and there is purity when the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 12:3). Second, fastened around his neck” (Mark
pray hard and long for Monica. 3 years ago, pagdating ko dun pa- there are dirt and corruption. whatever is said or done, far from 9:42). That is why, even in terms of
One of my unforgettable experi- rang walang sign that the Pope Let that purity, that cleanliness
ences was when I went to Milan as was coming except for the few come from the inside and that will creating violence, division, quarrel belief, we cannot lord it over others
a student to do research. And out banderitas, wala. Parang they were not, hopefully not be touched by the or friction, contributes to the unity on the presumption that we have the
of curiosity I went to the Duomo not excited at all that this event dirt of fault in the corruption. of the community (1 Cor 12:7). Most monopoly of truth and goodness, we
or the Cathedral, and join wala na- The World Meeting of Families Let us help each other be pure of things are to be subordinated to cannot be oppressive or cynical of
man akong pambayad doon sa mga which will culminate in the visit heart so that we could render to God these, and have to be tolerated and others who are not with us. Jesus
tourist guides eh may nakita akong of the Pope parang wala ang mga a fitting service in the area of new accepted. For we must not become himself said that “anyone who is not
grupo, hindi naman nila ako sinita nakapaskil pa doon sa mga LED evangelization. obstacles to the saving power of against us is with us” (Mark 9:40).
B8 ENTERTAINMENT September 17 - 30, 2018 Vol. 22 No. 19 CBCP Monitor

Buhay San Miguel Brothers Matias

The Equalizer 2 Lolo Kiko Bladimer Usi

Buhay Parokya
FIND 3 MISSING THINGS:
1. ST. JOHN PAUL II
2. HOLY EUCHARIST
3. ANGEL GABRIEL

Director: Antoine Fuqua Lead Cast: Denzel Washington, Pedro


Pascal, Ashton Sanders Screenwriter: Richard Wenk
Producers: Todd Black, Jason Blumenthal, Tony Eldridge, Antoine
Fuqua, Mace Neufeld, Alex Siskin, Michael Sloan, Steve Tisch,
Denzel Washington Editor: Conrad Buff IV
Musical Director: Harry Gregson-Williams
Cinematographer: Oliver Wood Genre: Crime, Action
Distributor: Columbia Pictures Location: Massachusetts, U.S.A.
Running Time: 2 hrs
Technical assessment: 3.5 Moral assessment: 2.5
CINEMA rating: V16 MTRCB rating: R13

A driver takes us from point for adults who will find this
A to point B. If he’s a Robert second partnership between
McCall (Denzel Washington) Washington and director
of the on-demand transport Antoine Fuqua a notch
service Lyft, he’ll do much above the first Equalizer.
more than that. He’ll Sure it’s the same theme
exterminate the men who and same M.O. We would
raped his female passenger. even say Pedro Pascal’s
He’ll find the long-lost sister character is predictable. But
of an old man who survived the confluence of action,
the Holocaust. He’ll pirouette suspense, and sound set in the
a young man named Miles quaint neighborhoods of New
(Ashton Sanders) from drugs England and the sea suffuses
and gangs to painting and the movie with a good formula
reading. And if in the most for foreboding.
calamitous of all missteps, Without a doubt, Equalizer 2
someone murders his one best in the crime-action genre is
friend Susan (Melissa Leo), impressive. But it treads on
McCall will uncage all his dangerous waters. How do we
vigilante fury until everyone right a wrong? If justice is our
responsible is wiped out. plea, how far would we go to
Susan and McCall had worked exact it? McCall’s vigilantism
in a government intelligence and summary execution are
agency before McCall’s wife outside the law, they’re above
was killed and he disappeared it. And in a civilization that
(he supposedly died), while for thousands of years has
Susan went on to private plowed to establish the rule
practice. She was investigating of law, Equalizer 2 not only
the murder-suicide of another demolishes respect for life,
intelligence agent, and was it also emboldens brutality
close to solving the case when and violence. The movie
she was killed. McCall seeks shows the gratifying results
the help of former colleague of vigilantism: a young girl is
and current associate of abducted by her own father
Susan’s, Dave York (Pedro to get back at the mother,
Pascal) to track down the McCall slays him, daughter
killer. and mother are reunited.
Equalizer 2 makes us forget Glorious! But what about the
we’re watching a movie. slain? They’re unnecessary
We hear a shooter’s heavy and expendable lives, and the
breathing and we flinch when world is a much better place
his dilated pupils stare at us. without them. The very same
Blood soaks the screen and narrative invoked in a certain
we can’t breathe. And when war on drugs. On the big
McCall speaks, we recognize screen as in real life, it takes a
melancholy, affection and mature community of people Mabuting tao pero me pagka- studio para maghanap ng ang hinihingi ng papel na ng Miss Granny at The
rage beneath a calibrated to weigh the repercussions bugnutin ang nagkakaidad paliwanag, pero hindi na niya batang Fely: namimighati Hows of Us — mahilig talaga
monotone that is distinctly and underpinnings of this nang si Fely Malabaño (Nova makikita ang talyer sa lugar na man o mabangis na ang manunood na Pinoy sa
Denzel Washington’s. Not beguiling strain of swift Villa). Hindi lang magustuhan kinatagpuan niya. Kalaunan, hinahambalos ng bangus si romantic comedy. Ayos ang
for young audiences, but yes justice. ang lasa ng sinigang ay magugustuhan na din niya Lorenz (Xian Lim), “carry” mensahe ng Miss Granny — ang
magtataray na sa manugang ang bagong hitsura niya — at niya. Komedyang may laman unahin ang kapakanan ng
Miss Granny (Lotlot). Maoospital ang
manugang dahil sa sobrang
bibigyan niya ng bagong
pangalan ang sarili: Odrey.
ang Miss Granny, pero
nasasapawan ng komedya
pamilya kaysa sa sariling
kasiyahan. Nagsakripisyo si
stress, at ilalagak si Fely ng Magiging magulo’t malungkot ang laman nito, halos hindi na Fely/Odrey para sa ikaliligtas
DIRECTOR: Joyce Bernal kanyang anak na si Ramon ang buhay niya, lalo na’t gusto tuloy mapapansin ang husay ng buhay ng apo, halimbawa.
LEAD CAST: Sarah Geronimo, (Nonie Buencamino) sa isang pa rin niyang nakikita nang ng pagganap ni Buencamino Isang paalala lamang mula sa
James Reid, Xian Lim, Nova ‘nursing home’ o tahanan lihim ang anak at apo niya, pero at Villa, halimbawa, nang CINEMA, kapag nanonood
Villa, Boboy Garovillo ng mga matatanda, bagay masaya din, dahil matutupad kailanganin ang drama sa tayo ng kinahihiligang
SCREENPLAY: Jinky Laurel na ikalulungkot ng ina. na ang childhood dream niyang kuwento. Sana’y tinabas palabas, lalo na’t kung
PRODUCERS: Neil Arce, Isang araw, maaakit siya ng maging isang singer. pa ng konti ang sobrang ang kuwento’y umiikot sa
Vincel del Rosario III, Veronique
del Rosario-Corpus
isang photo studio na may Halaw sa orihinal na mahahabang eksenang elemento ng pantasiya tulad
GENRE: Comedy, Fantasy, display na litrato ng paborito kwentong Koreano ang patawa, para hindi ito lumabas ng Miss Granny, ingat lang,
Musical niyang artistang si Audrey Miss Granny, na tinimpla na “trying hard” at nang lalong at baka umangat ang mga
MUSIC: Len Calvo Hepburn. Magpapakuha ni Bernal para sa panglasa mangibabaw ang hugot ng paa natin at lumutang tayo sa
EDITING: Joyce Bernal, siya ng litrato para ipatong ng Pilipino. Kapanipaniwala mga pangunahing tauhan. alapaap sa pag-aakalang iyon
Chrisel Galeno-Desuasido sa ataol niya pagdating ng ang pelikula sa kabila ng Pero madaling patawarin ang katotohanan ng buhay.
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Rody panahon — papangakuan pagiging pantastiko ng ang kakulangang iyon, kasi Ituro sa kabataan na ang
Lacap COUNTRY: Philippines naman siya ng photographer kuwento nito, salamat sa nakakaaliw panoorin si mga pangarap ay natutupad
PRODUCTION DESIGN: Shari LANGUAGE: Filipino na pababatain nito ang histura tamang set, costumes at lalo Geronimo — para ka nang lamang at nagbibigay ng ganap
Marie Montiaque RUNNING TIME: 1 hr 53 min niya. Totoo ngang babata na mga sinaunang kanta na nanood sa concert niya nang na kasiyahan kung dinadaan
PRODUCTION COMPANY:
si Fely, babalik sa kanyang buong siglang binanatan hindi gumagasta ng libo- sa hard work — kayod kalabaw,
N2 in association with Viva Technical assessment: 3.5 pagkadalaga. Asiwa siya sa ni Geronimo. Makikitang libong piso. ika nga — sabi nga sa Bibliya,
Films Moral assessment: 3 pagbabagong nangyayari, nahihinog na sa pag-arte si Puno ang mga sinehan sa “He who does not work,
DISTRIBUTORS: Viva Films CINEMA rating: PG13 babalikan niya angphoto Geronimo dahil naibigay niya mistulang pakikipagtalbugan neither shall he eat.”
Ugnayan
THE NEWS SUPPLEMENT OF COUPLES FOR CHRIST
CBCP Monitor. Vol. 22 No. 19 September 17 - September 30, 2018 C1

COUPLES FOR CHRIST JOINS THE


by Raymond V. Bucu
WORLD MEETING OF FAMILIES
AS THE world finds itself slowly Schonborn of Vienna, Austria and
plunging into the depths of the famous chef priest, Fr. Leo
Patalinghud, host of the EWTN
hopelessness due to the numerous TV show, Plating Grace.
problems and challenges beset- The Congress also included daily
ting the whole of humanity, the celebration of the Eucharist,
Catholic Church convened the prayerful activities, exhibitions,
World Meeting of Families in cultural events and musical per-
Dublin, Ireland. Chosen by Pope formances.
• On Saturday afternoon, August
Francis as the host from 21-26 25, people from all walks of life
August 2018, and guided by the trooped on foot towards Croke
theme "The Gospel of the Family: Park Stadium as Pope Francis
Joy for the World", the Catholic arrived to attend the Festival of
Church of Ireland welcomed and Families. The Festival consisted
of a reflective concert within a
brought together families from prayerful but joyful atmosphere.
across the globe to celebrate, pray The Festival, seen as a celebra-
and reflect on the importance of tion of the faithful who patiently
marriage, and the family, as the searched for God’s message for the
cornerstone of life, of society and duration of the Pastoral Congress,
of the Church. featured personal stories of faith
Couples for Christ enthusiastically shared by families coming from
participated by sending a mission team all continents.
led by IC member Arnel Santos and wife • Finally, on Sunday August 26,
Bing to this highly important event. despite being pelted by sleet,
CFC Ireland also offered its whole- rain and cold winds, WMOF
hearted support to the WMoF 2018. 2018 closed at Phoenix Park with
The following key elements pro- a solemn Mass celebrated by
pelled the week-long event: Pope Francis before thousands of
• The first day of the WMOF, Au- people from Ireland and all over
the world. group of ordinary men and women at so-called “throw-away culture” that is an examination of conscience to find
gust 21, 2018, was the National a time of great poverty and restlessness prevailing in the world today. out if the effects of planned obsoles-
Opening Day, which took place in Ireland. Cardinal Tagle based his talk on a cence have permeated their lives, their
simultaneously in all the different Brethen welcoming brethren
CFC Ireland, led by Efren and The next three days were spent in study made by K. A. Hamer titled, “The minds and their culture.
dioceses of Ireland. the Royal Dublin Society (RDS) with History of Planned Obsolescence”, Other speakers such as Bishop Rob-
• The days from August 22 up to the Marivel Bagares, as well as the Ireland
Governance Team, welcomed the CFC the mission team participating in the which stated that advances in technol- ert Barron of the Archdiocese of Los
24th saw a three-day Theological amazing workshops and scholarly pre- ogy have truly been very beneficial to Angeles spoke on the reflections of
Pastoral Congress where partici- mission team from Manila with much
sentations from the brightest minds of humanity by making life easier for Pope Francis in papal encyclical Amo-
pants reflected on Pope Francis’ enthusiasm. A pilgrimage to the world the Catholic Church. Among the work- many. Cardinal Tagle pointed out ris Laetitia, specifically on Chapters 7,
chosen theme “The Gospel of famous Shrine of Our Lady of Knock shops was one about the environment, that the tendency to obsolescence has 8 and 9. Bishop Barron said that Pope
the Family: Joy for the World”.. became the fitting start for the mission and another on the role of technology become so prevalent that useful things Francis was very much into the tradi-
The Congress featured talks and team to enter into a deep reflection in the family. are rendered useless as soon as the tions of the virtues ethics as opposed
presentations as well as deeply about Mary’s role in strengthening newest trend or product comes out. He to rules ethics. The prelate said, “If we
incisive discussions by keynote families in the world. Vic Cosingan of Important takeaways from the reiterated that the throw-away attitude present the moral life simply in terms
speakers, which included the CFC Ireland facilitated the pilgrim- WMoF has become acceptable and embedded of rules and prohibitions, we are pre-
Archdiocese of Manila’s very own age. The team, together with brethren One of the most memorable work- in modern culture, affecting the way senting a very impoverished account
Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, re- from CFC UK, went to a journey back shops was the one by Cardinal Luis man treats the environment and even of the moral life”.
nowned preachers such as Bishop in time reminiscing the story of when Antonio Tagle, who gave a talk on relationships. Cardinal Tagle exhorted One of the most fun parts of the
Robert Barron, Cardinal Christopf the Blessed Mother appeared before a the reflections of Pope Francis on the the participants to reflect and perform WMOF was to WMOF, C3

Typhoon Ompong Postpones AGW in MM, Luzon;


VisMin and Some Countries Go Ahead Fortifying Faith at the SFC RECON
also postponed their AGW, SINGLES for Christ all over
as well as the provinces of the Philippines attended their
MIMAROPA (Mindoro, annual regional conferences,
Marinduque, Romblon and excited to move forward in
Palawan). Two provinces of their Christian faith journey
MIMAROPA, however, had and push forward to a more
already held their AGW the relentless life with Jesus.
weekend before, as did the SFC from Metro Manila
provinces of the Bicol region. held their conference at the
Bicol had timed their AGW Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig
with the Feast of the Our on August 26 - 27, 2018,
Lady of Peñafrancia. while those in the various
“We are all deeply dedicat- Philippine regions held theirs
ed to the Lord and the poor, in their respective regions.
THE ANCOP Global Walk the Philippines and the world. but we are also entrusted The conferences were held
(AGW) is a much-anticipated However, because of the threat the responsibility to decide over the weekends from Au-
event in Couples for Christ. For of Typhoon Ompong (Interna- what is best for the safety of gust to October.
the past eight years, members tional name: Mangkhut) in the members and participants,” The conference theme
of CFC, ANCOP scholars, part- Philippines on that particular said CFC Chairman Melo Vil- “Fortified” was anchored on
ners, and the general public weekend, the leadership of CFC laroman Jr. in an official ad- Colossians 1:11: "Strength-
have looked forward to the one and ANCOP jointly decided to visory released on Thursday, ened with every power, in need only to persevere in God’s Spirit is far from perfect but
day of the year when brethren postpone the AGW in Metro September 13, 2018. accord with His glorious promise and endure for His is someone who is not afraid.
from all over the world walk Manila and Northeastern, The provinces in the Visayas might, for all endurance and grace is sufficient. When the Spirit is at work in
for the benefit of ANCOP Western and Central Luzon, and Mindanao decided to push patience, with joy." the midst of one’s brokenness,
scholars. areas over which the typhoon through with AGW. Capiz, Ne- Filled by the Holy Spirit he becomes a blessing as he
This year, the AGW was was expected to pass. gros Occidental, Negros Orien- Born Into Battle The second session of the shares himself to others.
scheduled on Sunday, Sep- The provinces of CALA- tal, Leyte, and Southern Leyte in The first session of the con- conference, “Filled by the Holy
tember 16, not just in Metro BARZON – Cavite, Laguna, the Visayas; and Zamboanga del ference, “Born Into Battle,” Spirit,” showed the beauty of Called to Holiness, Called
Manila but in many areas in Batangas, Rizal and Quezon AGW 2018, C3 reminded the delegates that Christianity through the fruits to Serve
the fiercest battle that they of the Holy Spirit. The delegates His Excellency Mylo Hubert
CFC Migrants Program Partners with OWWA will ever face is the battle
within themselves.
were reminded that, through
the sacrament of baptism, one
Vergara, D.D., Bishop of the
Diocese of Pasig, celebrated
THE CFC, through its Migrants The participants were receives the infilling of the Holy the Holy Eucharist on the
Program, and the Overseas brought to the realization Spirit, and it is the power of the last day of the conference for
Workers Welfare Administra- that in the midst of all of life’s Spirit that allows each person to Metro Manila.
tion (OWWA) signed a Memo- battles, God’s love remains go through battles and to move He reminded everyone
randum of Agreement (MOA) constant and true. They re- towards realizing God's great that the challenge of Jesus for
on September 12, 2018. joiced at knowing that one plans for each one. them is a call to conversion.
A highlight of the MOA is the can still remain at peace de- “Our life is not for our-
advocacy of Family Reintegra- spite hardships and sufferings Fortified selves, but for others we are
tion as proposed by the CFC and that one can withstand To understand that their called to serve and lead peo-
Migrants Program. The advo- every battle for as long as he hardships have a divine pur- ple to Christ,” he said.
cacy intends to make holistic remains in Jesus. pose, to appreciate the beauty The prelate pointed out that
the “mainstreaming” or rein- The first session assured the of the works of the Holy Spirit for everyone to embrace a holy
tegration of returning overseas singles that regardless of their and see how God uses each life, they should be honest with
workers. Such reintegration, as personal realities, no one is battle and hardship to bless themselves, realize that they are
the MOA states, should focus exempted from life’s difficul- others, the third session, “For- sinners loved by a compassionate
on rebuilding and re-uniting partner in the development and rial resources and facilities in ties and that their journey to- tified,” taught the delegates and merciful God, and serve the
families of returning migrants. conduct of Moral Values Reori- the conduct and implementa- wards fulfilling God’s will in to strive to grow in holiness, Lord in whatever way they can.
Other highlights of the MOA entation Program, with support tion of programs; their lives is not smooth nor have renewed hope, discover He further stated that all of
are: from other Social Development • Implementing guidelines trouble-free. However, the deeper joy, and develop an these equip each Catholic to bring
• OWWA and CFC Migrants Programs, as well as from CFC shall be drawn by OWWA and session reminded everyone intimacy with God. others closer to Christ and to pre-
Program will form a working Family Ministries of Kids for the CFC Migrants Program; and that, as they grow in holiness The session reiterated that a pare them for the coming of God's
group; Christ, Youth for Christ and • Regular evaluation of the and face life's hardships, they person fortified with the Holy kingdom. (Andrelene Veloso)
• OWWA shall accredit the Singles for Christ; results and effectiveness of the
CFC Migrants Program as its • OWWA shall provide mate- OWWA, C3
C2 September 17 - September 30 , 2018 Vol. 22 No. 19 CBCP Monitor

REFLECTIONS FROM THE VATICAN East A Holds Fellowship Night with the Clergy
“AS MARRIED couples, you
Joe Tale also have your charism as priest,
prophet and king, though in a
A New Chapter Begins different form. We clergy have the
same charism as priest, prophet
Editor’s Note: Former CFC Chairman and Trust and take courage. Our God will do and king, but in a different form,
former Board of Elders Moderator Joe Tale great things for us, and holy is His name. that is, we minister to the com-
and his wife Babylou have been assigned mon priesthood, and that is you...
as Vatican Relations Head and CFC Europe September 13, 2018, our first General As- I’d like to thank you, the laity, for
Regional Mission Center Coordinator. They sembly with CFC Rome giving us lot of elbow room for
will be based in Rome for the next two years. Ephphatha! our imperfections, being humans
Beginning this issue, Joe will be writing about This word, meaning "Be opened!", was ut- like you. It is good for us, clergy,
their many experiences in Rome, highlighting tered by Jesus when he healed the deaf and that you remind us…for fraternal
their new assignment. mute man in the district of the Decapolis. correction, of course, in a nice way,
The following are his reflections during the (Mark 7:34). like brothers and sisters… just like
first month of their deployment. Ephphatha was also the word used by Fr. we are also going to correct you
Sonny de Rivera, SVD, Spiritual Adviser paternally, like a father. I thank gether with nine priests from from the Congregation of Jesus
August 17, 2018, one day before leaving of CFC Rome, as he led the community in you for this initiative for inviting the Metro Manila East A sector, and Mary, broke the ice with a ren-
for Italy laying hands over Babylou and me during the clergy to be with you tonight.” graced the event. dition of a famous Tagalog song.
As we prepare for our new assignment in the Mass before the September 9, 2018 Leaders of CFC Metro Manila Aside from the inspirational Fr. Jimmy Padilla from the Sacred
Rome, Babylou and I are of course excited general assembly. East A were humbled by this message from Bishop de Leon, Heart of Jesus Parish, and Fr. Rock
about this new chapter in our CFC service, It was a unique pray over, as only the word inspirational message Bishop who thanked and encouraged Berdos from the St. Joseph the
which is as well a new chapter in our lives. Ephphatha was prayed repeatedly during the Francis de Leon, Bishop of the CFC to continue collaborating Worker Parish, belted out their
At the same time, however, we have some entire session. Fr. Sonny explained that this Diocese of Antipolo. The mes- with the Church, the clergy guests favorite songs with gusto. Not to
apprehensions, as this is in effect relocating prayer is special because the person healed sage, both for clergy guests were honored through the cer- be outdone, Peter dela Cruz, Chito
to a new country, leaving our comfort zone in was not only able to hear and speak, but all his and CFC leaders, was delivered emonious distribution of token Cubacub, and Thonie Miranda
the Philippines, and really not knowing what senses were opened to fully experience Jesus. during the Clergy Appreciation t-shirts by the Sector Governance showcased their talents.
lies ahead, what the Lord has in store for us in Upon further reflection, I realized how Night held on August 23 at the Team and cluster heads. Despite the limited time and
Rome, in the Vatican, in all of Europe. appropriate the prayer was especially for me, Social Hall, Greenland Subdivi- The sumptuous dinner was resources, God ensured that ev-
It is thus comforting to reflect on a quote from as I go about this new assignment in Vatican sion, Cainta, Rizal. CFC orga- capped with a special serenade erything fell into place.
St. John Chrysostom, cited by Pope Francis in and Rome and Europe. I pray for all my senses nized the Clergy Night to honor from CFC entertainers led by The event gave East A leaders
his Apostolic Exhortation Gaudete et Exultate, to be fully open to know and follow the guid- Bishop de Leon and the priests Chito Cubacub‘s “Flat Tire” a great opportunity to further
thus: "God pours unto us the very source of all ance and direction of the Lord. I pray to have of the diocese in celebration of band and Eric Fresnosa. Bishop strengthen collaboration with
his gifts even before we enter into battle.” a sharp mind to understand the breadth and Priest Day and the Year of the Nolly led the “Priests Got Tal- the bishops and priests in fulfill-
depth of the pronouncements of the Pope and Clergy and Consecrated Persons. ent” show, hosted by Nelson ing the evangelistic mission of
September 8, 2018, Nativity of the Blessed the other leaders of our faith in the Vatican, Bishop-elect Nolly Buco, to- Montero. Fr. Noel Corcino, the diocese. (Francis Gonzaga)
Virgin Mary especially as it relates to our vision and mis-
Babylou and I are now about to complete sion in CFC. I pray to have a loving heart and
our third week in Rome. In addition to our competence in serving the brethren in the MM MISSION CORE TEACHING NIGHT SERIES
CFC responsibilities, I have been privileged different countries of Europe, operating from
to be designated by CBCP News as its Vatican the regional mission center we are setting up.
Bureau Chief. Yet another challenge. It will be
an exciting ride as I have to learn and train
I pray to have alert eyes and ears to spot the
developments I should report on to CBCP
Meekness and Righteousness to Holiness
on-the-go in this unfamiliar terrain. Despite News as its Vatican correspondent. BEING meek and doing what’s right, that is er and could have done just about anything, but
my apprehensions, I am comforted by a loving Jesus prayed before healing the deaf and holiness and its one true source is God. He didn’t use this power to subdue the people
God who has directed my life all these years. mute person. Jesus looked up to heaven before This was the premise of the third install- who followed Him. Rather, He empowered His
I praise Him for placing us in this strong uttering Ephphatha. It is also noted that the ment of the Christian Identity Series delivered disciples through His love. He encouraged His
spiritual environment. We will be sharing verses on the healing of the deaf and mute during the monthly Mission Core Teaching followers to embrace meekness.
our reflections along the way with you dear along with the blind in Isaiah 35 and Psalm (MCT) Night of the Metro Manila sectors. The Everyone is called to be meek not because
family, brethren, friends. We are praying for 146 which are to be read together with this MCT was held on September 18 in five venues they are weak, but because they are strong. It
you. And we pray too for what may seem to be Gospel passage from Mark, are not mentioned to serve the large MM CFC population. is submission not to the world, but to God.
pervasive darkness in the national and global in isolation, but in the same breath as the need Session 3: “Meekness and Righteousness
journey we are going through. to care for the poor, the oppressed, the hungry, to Holiness” was anchored on Matthew 5: Righteousness
Know though that the darkness may not be and those "whose hearts are frightened”. 5-6 which says, “Blessed are the meek, for Matthew 5:20 says, “I tell you, unless your
because the Lord has distanced Himself away These to me are clear guides that wherever they shall inherit the land. Blessed are they righteousness surpasses that of the scribes
from us. It may be due to the Lord being so the Lord sends us, we move forward in our who hunger and thirst for righteousness for and Pharisees, you will not enter into the
close by that His bright light blinds our weak mission only in prayer, and that they who they will be satisfied.” This is part of what are kingdom of heaven.” As this month’s topic
eyes making us think it is dark when we are we seek to serve, should be inclusive of those known as the Beatitudes. says, righteousness is to desire a relationship
actually in the midst of a powerful brightness "who are poor in the world”. The Beatitudes are guidelines which Jesus with justice. And those who are righteous
we cannot see and appreciate. May we indeed go forth accordingly. taught in order for man to share in the very are those who put faith and effort into their
life of God. It is not just a new lifestyle, but a relationships with the people around them
new life altogether. In the same way that CFC and with God.
AGT SUMMIT FOR NORTH AND CENTRAL LUZON HELD is not a lifestyle, but a love-style as everyone As children of God, everyone is called to
is called to love more. acknowledge that the only way to righteous-
heads, are faithful to their role of In this session, the standards of the world ness is Jesus, embracing Him as the only one
bringing lost souls back to Christ. such as wealth, popularity, freedom, power and who can satisfy their needs.
The AGTs must ensure that the position were presented vis-a-vis the Beatitudes. As CFC continues to strive and embrace
pastoral structure in their areas is holiness through living out the Beatitudes,
well-defended. Meekness the way of Jesus, they are reminded to act in
The participants were also re- The world thinks that being meek and submission to God and love others as Jesus did.
minded that the Family Min- humble is equivalent to weakness and being They are reminded that it is God who will fill
istries must be fully integrated timid. However, being meek is being like them to the brim and it is God who will guide
within the chapters and their Jesus. The meekness of Christ is not weakness them to righteousness. The Teaching Series
activities are in sync with those but keeping strength under control. will be available in the CFC youtube channel
of the whole province. The AGT While he was on earth, Christ had all the pow- soon. (Andrelene Veloso)
must also see to it that the AN-
COP and Social Development
Programs are implemented in
their areas. CFC NegOcc Holds First ANCOP & SOCDEV Summit
The participants were exhorted
to know more about their mem- COUPLES for Christ leaders from Negros Oc- oralgo, and ANCOP Visayas fulltime worker
IT WAS another first for CFC in their respective provinces; bers. They were also challenged to cidental held their first-ever ANCOP and Social Cresty Tomenio.
Luzon. All the members of the thus they are to set the directions go on mission trips to areas outside Development Summit on September 1, 2018 at De Leon presented the various Social Develop-
Area Governance Teams from the and policies needed to fulfill the of their own, in fulfillment of their the Padre Pio Hall, Sacred Heart Shrine Com- ment Programs, namely the Migrants Program,
provinces of Northeastern Luzon, CFC Vision and Mission in their mandate as CFC leaders to pro- pound, Bacolod City. The primary objective of GKare, Project ReForm, OIKOS, Order of St.
Northwestern Luzon, and Central areas. The AGT members are also claim God’s message to all. this activity was to empower the leaders, from Michael, Isaiah 61:1, and STMA, reminding
Luzon, gathered on September 8 required to know everything that The participants expressed ap- the chapter heads up to the Area Governance delegates that serving in the SocDev Programs
and 9, 2018 for the first-ever AGT is happening in the five pillars preciation of the first-ever AGT Team of Negros Occidental, to support ANCOP is an extra mile for the Lord.
Summit. The gathering was held (evangelization and mission, pas- summit and their hope that this and the SocDev programs, and to enlighten them Afterwards, the ANCOP Team presented updates
at the Greenfield Paradise Resort toral formation, family ministries, be a regular event so that they about the new policies and practices that are im- about the Education Sponsorship Program, Alumni
in Malasiqui, Pangasinan. ANCOP/social development, and continue to be rekindled in their portant in implementing the ANCOP programs Relations, Cornerstone, Finance and Liquidation,
Among the speakers were CFC mission support). This is contrary mission and revived in their re- in the province. Community Development and ISO. With these
President Shok Arriola, Luzon to the prevailing perception that lationships with other leaders in The ANCOP Team was headed by CAGFI presentations, all the participants were not only
Island Head Boyet Rafael, Nic because, as AGT, each is assigned the island. President Rudy Gaspillo, together with his enlightened, but also challenged to keep on moving
Escalona, Lawrence Quintero and a pillar, that he is administratively The other regions in Luzon – wife, ANCOP Research and Development forward for the Lord through ANCOP Programs.
ANCOP President Rudy Gaspillo. and solely responsible for that Southern Luzon, Calabarzon and Head Indette Gaspillo, while CFC SocDev Gaspillo, at the end of his presentation, re-
The participants were remind- pillar alone. Mimaropa – will hold their own was represented by Mon de Leon. Other minded the delegates, “Our service in ANCOP is
ed of their roles as AGT. They In the area of evangelization AGT summit on September 29 to representatives were Education Head Efren not optional, it is essential.” He added, “This is a
were told that as AGT members, and mission, the AGT must en- 30 at Shercon Resort & Ecology Tompong, Finance Head Manny Simon, AN- great opportunity to serve the Lord and to fulfill
they are expected to be at the sure that the leaders in their Park, Mataas na Kahoy, Batangas. COP National Social Worker Jannie Bagapuro, the mission of building the church of the home
forefront of the spiritual battle areas, particularly the chapter (Sonny Sta. Ana) ANCOP Liquidation Coordinator Paul May- and the poor.” (Patria Iane Balilla)

CFC DAVAO DEL NORTE “GREATER” @ 25!


Levi M. Mantica, Fr. Anselmo G. Junio, 25 years—the blessing of faithful goodness to every member of the CFC
Fr. Allan O. Alindajao, celebrated the leaders and servants and the blessing community in the province. Creative
Holy Eucharist. In his homily, Msgr. of being united in Christ. From all performances followed, with participat-
Mantica challenged CFC Davao del of these blessings come the fruits of ing entries from different clusters adding
Norte to look to the future with con- gratitude, commitment and service. to the festivity of the entire afternoon.
fidence and hope. He recognized and honored Albert The AGT household and the SFC Un-
CFC Davao del Norte’s 25th celebra- and Angelina Cartagena for being in ang Dekada likewise showed their best
tion theme “Greater” was inspired by the first batch that started CFC in the live performances onstage. A musical
Deuteronomy 10:21 “He is your praise; province. The Cartagenas are also part show later in the afternoon showcased
He is your God, who has done for of the Area Governance Team as the the journey of Couples for Christ.
you those great and awesome things Pastoral Formation Head. Provincial Area Director Zenon
that your own eyes have seen.” CFC Ariola further exhorted, “ As we con- Rachiel M. Alenton, together with his
Provincial Area Head Romy Lestojas tinue to serve, the Lord never fails in His wife Benliezl; Pastoral Formation Head
opened the program with these words: faithfulness. Let us remain then to be faith- Albert and Angelina Cartagena;, AN-
“This theme is about looking back on ful and trust in Him. This is our battlecry.” COP Coordinator Melvyn and Mildred
how the Lord has blessed the province, CFC International Council members Funtilon; Mission Support Coordinator
conquered new territories and raised James Solano and Joe Yamamoto; Alejandro and Delia Cal; and Family
missionaries for the past 25 years of Mindanao Island Head Rene Breva; Ministries Area Head Ulysses Felix and
COUPLES for Christ Davao del Norte that passed through the busy streets of being in the community. All these Southeastern Mindanao Region Head wife Antoinette, expressed their grati-
celebrated 25 years of God’s abundance Tagum City. Almost 2,000 CFC members things are because God is beyond all Carlos Subang; Provincial Area Head tude through the song “Salamat”.
in the community on September 2, at and their families from different chap- dreams, hopes, and prayers of Couples Romy Lestojas; and former Provincial The celebration ended with the
the Davao del Norte Sports and Tourism ters, clusters, parishes, and municipali- for Christ Davao del Norte!” Area Director Bonifacio Licayan and praisefest led by Bernard Garcia, YFC
Complex (DNSTC) RDR Gym, Tagum ties attended the celebration. CFC President Michael “Shok” Jean Licayan were also present to join Philippine Missions Head. CFC Davao
City, Davao del Norte. The CFC clusters Fr. Bruno L. Genilla, CFC Davao del Ariola, in his inspirational talk, enu- the festivities. del Norte is encouraged to move for-
from different areas journeyed to the Norte’s Spiritual Director, together merated the blessings and fruits of A food parade and lunch fellowship ward to the next 25 years and do greater
venue in a motorcade and floats parade with Msgr. Federico M. Mantica, Fr CFC Davao del Norte over the past also took place, symbolizing God’s things for the Lord. (Beverly Rabaja)
CBCP Monitor September 17 - September 30 , 2018 Vol. 22 No. 19 C3

OSM Conducts CEM 1 for the Philippine Army CFC OSM Conducts CEM 1 at PMMA Zambales
THE CFC Order of St Michael Zambales Area Governance with wife Alma, to provide
(OSM) Metro Manila Team Team (AGT), was the prima- support to the Metro Manila
led by Program Vice Head ry link of CFC with PMMA service team.
MGen (Ret) Willy Ona and during the conduct of this Speakers, sharers and mod-
Navy Group Head VADM two-day undertaking. erators included VADM Mil-
(Ret) Jess Millan travelled The PMMA, led by VADM lan, Navy Capt Ibarra, Elmer
to the Philippine Merchant Richard Ritual, Superinten- Jacob, Diony Mateo, Ver Ru-
Marine Academy (PMMA) in dent of the academy, and billos, Bryan Balolong, Lito
San Narciso, Zambales for the Engr Charlie Pandungan, Angeles, Command Master
conduct of two (2) sessions of Dean of Marine Engineering Chief Fred Asence, and Celeo
the Character Enhancement Department, provided full Alvarez.
AFTER a successful pilot CEM (Character activity. The participants were all thankful for Module (CEM) 1. support to the activity. These two (2) CEM sessions
Enhancement Module) run, the Order of St. the program because this reminded them of God About 161 first class ca- CFC Zambales formed a were the first for CFC OSM at
Michael (OSM) team of Negros Oriental set out and their responsibilities as soldiers. Two of the dets of the academy at- team, headed by CFC Zambales PMMA. The next session will
on August 4, 2018 to conduct the CEM-1 for participants, Henry Villasis and Ronald Sebala, tended on September 1 OSM Provincial Coordinator, be given to the fourth class
Philippine Army personnel in the province. were able to relate well to the talks that they also while 160 third class cadets Dean Celeo Alvarez, and su- cadets while the third class
Twenty-seven (27) participants attended, 21 of shared their own personal experiences. participated on Septem- pervised by AGT member and cadets will undergo the CEM
whom were men and six women. Twenty-two Villasis, a battle survivor, shared that his ber 2. Navy Captain Jorge ANCOP/Social Development 1 upon their return from
(22) of the participants were Catholics and five near-death experience brought him closer to his Ibarra, a member of the CFC Programs Head Sonny Sta Ana their OJT. (Sonny Sta. Ana)
were non-Catholics. family. The CEM workshop likewise made him
Boboy Teves led the opening prayer while realize that he needs to strive to become a better
Emet Busmeon, OSM-NegOr team leader, gave an person for God and for his fellowmen.
overview of the CEM. This was followed by the Sebala, on the other hand, related how for-
talk sessions: Talk 1: Heroes for God and Country giveness became a key to his success in life.
(Emet Busmeon), Talk 2: Roadblocks to Greatness Abandoned at a very young age by his father for
(Mike Alferez with wife Ranie as sharer), Talk 3: another family, Sebala narrated how he overcame
Defending our Homes, Building our Families difficulties by working hard and by keeping hate
(Ernie Torres with wife Ann as sharer), Talk 4: out of his life.
Forgiveness a Key to Success (Boboy Teves with 2LT Arrianne Bichara, Officer-In-Charge,
wife Neneng as sharer) and Talk 5: All Out Vic- thanked the OSM team, sharing that she is
tory (Noriel Gahinhin) positive that the CEM will help the servicemen
For the plenary sharing, four participants become more honest and disciplined in their
shared their realizations during and after the work. (Mary Ann Torres)
ANCOP TVET PILOT CLASS ONGOING
ON September 17, 2018, CFC ANCOP's
thrust of helping the poor in the peripheries
started with the first batch of 75 parents,
all prospective beneficiaries of SM
Development Company (SMDC)-funded
housing program in Salcedo, Eastern
Samar. The trainees are taking courses MORE HOUSES TURNED-OVER TO HOME PARTNERS IN BOGO ANCOP SITE
in Electrical Installation and Maintenance,
Carpentry and Masonry. Completed houses in CFC ANCOP UAE Bogo Homes in Bogo City, Cebu were finally turned-over to home partners on August 11, 2018. The
The 40-hour dual technology training will latest 18 houses that were turned-over complete the 30 houses donated by partner donors from UAE and Canada. The simple ceremonies
run until September 21 and is facilitated were graced by Cebu ANCOP Head Ric Martinez; ANCOP Shelter Head Ben Tudtud; CFC ANCOP UAE Bogo Homeowner’s Association members,,
by experts from the Don Bosco Technical home partners and local government unit representatives.
Institute. Graduates will be hired as As part of the requirements, all the 30 families had undergone the Christian Life Program of Couples for Christ by the time they were awarded
construction workers and laborers of the the houses. (Patria Iane Balilla)
ANCOP Shelter Program which will also
serve as their on-the-job training (OJT).
The OJT is an enabler in getting National
Certification 11.
Equipment, tools and supplies of the said
courses were brought to Salcedo via the
Mobile Training Center (MTC). (Efren
Tompong)
WMOF, C1
watch the renowned priest-chef, Fr. Leo Patal- tion to families: “We need to learn three words.
inghud, best-selling Fil-Am author and host of They are “sorry”, “please” and “thank you”. When
the EWTN TV series, “Savoring Our Faith”, give you quarrel at home, be sure that before going to
a talk and cooking demonstration at the same bed you apologize and say you are sorry. Before
time. His segment was aptly titled, “Spicing Up the day is done, make peace. Do you want to know
Our Married Life: Satisfying Couples’ Hunger why it is necessary to make peace before ending
for True Love.” the day? Because if you don’t make peace, the
In his packed-to-the-rafters presentation, Fr. next day you have a “cold war” and that is very
Patalinhug used numerous culinary analogies to dangerous! Watch out for cold wars in the family!
help married couples understand what they need Maybe you get mad sometimes and are tempted
to do in order to have a joy-filled marriage. Fr. Leo to sleep in another room, all by yourself. If you
demonstrated how to make a beautiful dessert, feel that way, just knock on the door and say:
because marriage, he said, is sweet. “Please, can I come in?” All it takes is a look, a kiss, Ateneo, CFC ANCOP Initiate Relief Ops for Tarlac ANCOP Site
“But I am also going to add some cayenne pep- a soft word… and everything is back to the way it When typhoon Karding (Yagi) lashed the country in the second week of August and the accompanying southwest monsoon brought
even heavier rainfall, most of Luzon’s low-lying and flood-prone areas were severely affected.
per, because marriage is also spicy,” he shared. In was! I say this because when families do this, they CFC ANCOP Vancouver Community in Brgy. Tablang, Paniqui, Tarlac, did not escape the wrath of the storm, with waist-deep flooding
his cooking demonstration, he exhorted married survive. There is no such thing as a perfect family; in the community. The residents were forced to evacuate to a nearby covered court to ensure their safety.
couples to persevere in their marriage, enjoying without the practice of forgiveness, families can CFC ANCOP Global Foundation, Inc., in cooperation with Ateneo de Manila University students, initiated relief operations for the
the good moments and enduring those times grow sick and gradually collapse.” residents of the said site. The group donated bags of assorted relief goods that were distributed on August 19, 2018.
when it is most difficult. On the final Mass of the World Meeting of After the relief operations, CFC ANCOP announced it will be taking steps to help the residents rebuild their homes.
(CFC ANCOP Communications)
The cooking priest emphasized that marriage Families, prior to the Eucharistic prayers, the
is not a union of two, but a union of three—hus- Pope, in his Penitential Act, sought forgiveness OWWA, C1
band, wife and God. Without this foundation, Fr. from the eight Irish persons that he met who are
Leo explained, a marriage will crumble. Regard- survivors of the abuse of power and sexual abuse programs shall be done with Migrants Program is CFC’s arm moral values impressed upon
ing the current sex scandals in the Church, Fr. in the Catholic Church of Ireland. He said, “We program adjustments as may for providing values formation OFWs and their families
Leo also offered a short comment: “Let’s not kid ask forgiveness for the cases of abuse in Ireland, be needed. programs for the families the through CFC Migrants Pro-
ourselves, we are not fully committed to holiness the abuse of power, the abuse of conscience and OWWA Administrator Hans OFWs leave behind. The Mi- gram’s Moral Values Reori-
and sacrifice”. He said that he personally renews sexual abuse on the part of representatives of the Leo J. Cacdac and CFC Presi- grants Program expressed hope entation Program will make
his priestly vows every morning, and asks God for Church. In a special way, we ask forgiveness for dent Michael Ariola signed the that their collaboration will a positive impact on the lives
the grace to remain obedient to Him, listening all those abuses that took place in different kinds agreement at the Office of the result in much better welfare of the families of OFWs.
to His mission. of institutions directed by men and women reli- DOLE Secretary in Intramuros, service to OFWs and their fami- Program Head Ferrer like-
gious and other members of the Church. We also Manila. Acting as witnesses lies. Under the MOA, the CFC wise expressed his belief that
Last day treats ask forgiveness for cases in which many minors to the MOA were Department Migrants Program is enabled the MOA will open up a trea-
The World Meeting of Families concluded were exploited for their labour.” of Labor and Employment to provide support to OWWA sure chest of opportunities for
with a World Festival of Families at the Croke Reflecting on the events of those blessed days Secretary Silvestre H. Bello in its various welfare programs. the CFC Migrants Program
Park Stadium which the Pope himself attended. in Ireland, one can say that the world is becom- III, OWWA Trustee Antonio Administrator Cacdac, after to keep the families of OFWs
More than 80,000 individuals came to the ing more and more hostile to the idea of a truly Partoza Jr., Social Develop- the signing, expressed opti- united amidst migration and
concert-like event which featured a dazzling Catholic life. But reminiscing on the grace-filled ment Programs Head Ramon mism for the MOA, and said the challenges migration brings
exhibition of lights, images and sounds, with moments in the World Meeting of Families, it de Leon, and Jess Ferrer, CFC he would like to see activities upon them.
performers from around the world serenading is clear that God is sending the world a message Migrants Program Head. CFC and programs that would also Present also during the sign-
the audience. and He is speaking in a loud voice; “The words I International Council Mem- be suited for the children of ing ceremony were OWWA
After listening to testimonies from families have spoken to you are spirit and life” (John 6:63). ber and ANCOP Director Jose OFWs. Ariola expressed appre- Director Allan Ignacio, Atty.
on their experiences while facing challenges of The family, being God’s own design will always Tayag was also in attendance. ciation that the CFC program Edz Claustro of OWWA, CFC
everyday life, Pope Francis reiterated his exhorta- remain the recipient of His most tender love. OWWA is the government will now be able to reach out to Migrants Program Core Mem-
agency tasked to provide wel- more migrant families through bers Mercy Ferrer, Frankie
AGW 2018, C1 fare assistance to overseas this linkage with OWWA. Naranjilla, Nestor and Cora
Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, Zam- Countries like Japan, Indo- In 2011, the annual fundraiser Filipino workers (OFWs) and For his part, Tayag ex- Simbulan, and Manuel and
boanga del Norte, Zamboanga nesia, regions in the U.S and was elevated into a global their families while the CFC pressed the hope that the Villa Lector. (Manny A. Lector)
City, Agusan del Sur, Agusan del the United Kingdom also held event of Couples for Christ and
Norte, Sultan Kudarat, Misamis
Occidental, Misamis Oriental,
their Walk on September 16.
The ANCOP Global Walk is an
ANCOP in order to allow many
people, including children and Mindanao YFC Couple Coordinators Empowered!
Cagayan De Oro, Davao City, annual event that aims to raise the elderly, to participate since AROUND 300 YFC Couple Coordinators from the realities of young people have been evolving
Davao Del Sur, Davao Del Norte, awareness about CFC’s mission walking is an activity that ev- the different provinces of Mindanao gathered on rapidly, couple coordinators also need to know
Davao Oriental, Bukidnon, to the poor, particularly the eryone can do. August 25 to 26, 2018 in Tangub City, Misamis how to lovingly respond to such realities.
Camiguin, Surigao del Norte, Education Program. It is also one For Metro Manila and the Occidental for the Mindanao Couple Coordina- In another plenary session, Ira Juntereal dis-
Surigao del Sur, Lanao del Norte, of the ways that ANCOP raises provinces in Luzon, the AN- tors Conference (MCCC). With the theme “Missio cussed the YFC programs.
Basilan, Tawi-Tawi, Compostela funds for more than 2,000 schol- COP Global Walk will take Dei,” this year’s MCCC focused on reminding YFC International Coorinator Jeremy Quim-
Valley, Davao Oriental, Magu- ars funded by the Walk alone. place on Sunday, November 4, the coordinators why they have been chosen pang presented the common pitfalls of the couple
indanao, Sargen, and South Co- The AGW piloted in Canada 2018, while Metro Cebu is on and called as YFC Couple Coordinators. They coordinators and why they must continually love
tabato in Mindanao held their in 2003. After two years, AN- October 28, 2018. (CFC Global were also encouraged to always be driven by despite the circumstances.
respective Walks as scheduled. COP USA adopted the AGW. Comm) love, and to remember that in their seemingly During the fellowship night, the couple coor-
mission impossible role in the ministry of YFC, dinators dressed up as agents from Mission Im-
the Holy Spirit will equip and empower them possible and James bond movies. One highlight
Ugnayan
THE NEWS SUPPLEMENT OF COUPLES FOR CHRIST
through and through.
Bernard Garcia, CFC Youth for Christ Philip-
pine Missions Coordinator, gave the Culture of
of the evening was the message of City Mayor
Philip T. Tan, who is also an active CFC leader.
The Sinanduloy Dance Troupe, Sinanduloy
the Spirit plenary workshop for the first part of Quartet and All-star band, all the members of
Michael C. Ariola the conference. which are scholars of the city of Tangub, also
IC Oversight The first session by Ray Docto, a member of the performed for the delegates.
Zenaida A. Gimenez Alma M. Alvarez Andrelene D. Veloso YFC International Core, presented the realities Mel Serrano, also of the YFC International
Editor-in-Chief Associate Editor Editorial Assistant of being a YFC Couple Coordinator. Despite the Core, delivered the last session, where he clearly
challenges, Docto reminded the CCs that as coordi- explained how the mission of being couple co-
Deomar P. Oliveria Evangeline C. Mecedilla nators, they have touched so many young people. ordinators is made possible by the Holy Spirit.
Layout Artist Circulation Staff The session was followed by a series of work- With empowered hearts, the YFC Couple
The Ugnayan News Supplement is published by the Couples for Christ Global Mission Foundation, Inc., with editorial offices at 156 20th shops on understanding and keeping up with the Coordinators of Mindanao went back to their
Avenue, 1109 Cubao, Quezon City. Editorial trunk line: (+63 2) 709-4868 local 31 Direct line : (+63 2) 709-4856 young, such as understanding depression, same areas, excited to take on the mission and to host
www.couplesforchristglobal.org cfcglobalcommunications@gmail.com
sex attraction, handling young people in the next year’s CFC YFC International Conference
digital age, social media basics and catechism. As in Davao City. (Lee Asuro)
C4 September 17 - September 30, 2018 Vol. 22 No. 19 CBCP Monitor

HOLD Canada Soars on Fiery Wings


CFC Handmaids of the Lord Canada the work of evangelization with love emn Charge,” where she encouraged
held the HOLD National Conference and dedication. the delegates to go into the whole
on September 7-10, 2018 at the RBC Tadifa and Sally Doromal, Can- world and proclaim the Gospel.
Convention Centre in Manitoba, ada National HOLD Coordinator, Session 3 (“Daunting Task…Un-
Winnipeg, with close to 600 del- welcomed all the delegates and daunted Spirit”) was given by Ludy
egates coming from the different declared the conference open. After Buencamino, HOLD Coordinator
provinces of Canada attending. This a short break, the delegates came for Ontario. The session spoke of
year’s theme was “On Fiery Wings.” back to the venue wearing dresses how one should be persistent in
On Friday morning, September 7, a in their assigned color, complete doing God’s work whether it is con-
Leaders Summit was held at the same with tiaras. The highlights of the venient or inconvenient.
venue, with Rey Tadifa, a member of night was the colorful Parade of Talk 4 (“The Time has Come”) was
the CFC Canada National Council Harvest Queens and the Women in given by Norma Borja, HOLD Coordi-
and in charge of the Family Min- Full bloom where they honored all nator for Europe, who shared that the
istries, encouraging all the leaders the CFC and HOLD members who Holy spirit and all the gifts that pro-
to continue doing the work of God have shared their time and talents ceed from Him will enable everyone
even if it entails hardships and dif- in serving the HOLD ministry. to be self-possessed and empowered to The last day of the conference start- The conference ended with the
ficulties. Breakout sessions followed Day 2 started with the Holy Ro- put up with all the hardships. ed with the praying of the Rosary and most awaited ceremony during
his talk, with each group discussing sary and the celebration of the Holy The talks became more powerful the celebration of the Holy Eucharist which special awards were given
their struggles and dreams as mem- Mass officiated by Rev. Fr. Gerry with the inspiring and life-changing led by Fr. Peter Nemcek, Parochial to the different areas. The venue
bers of HOLD. Sembrano, parish priest of St. Emile testimonies by HOLD sisters from Vicar of St. Mary’s Cathedral. was filled with joyful clapping and
The opening day of the confer- Catholic Church. the different areas. The last talk titled “On Fiery chanting as each area received their
ence started with the recitation of Session 1, titled “The Gift”, was deliv- After the talks, HOLD transformed Wings” was delivered by Didi Gal- special awards. The excitement es-
the Holy Rosary, followed by the ered by Pie Cadena, HOLD coordinator the venue into a Fantasy Land with sim, HOLD Coordinator for the calated even more as Toronto was
Eucharistic celebration officiated for North America, who emphasized everyone dressed in elegant and beau- Americas. She talked about rekin- announced as the next host for the
by Fr. Geoffrey Angeles, Rector of St. the importance of using God given-gifts tiful glittering gowns. The night was dling the gift and fulfilling the 2019 HOLD National Conference.
Mary’s Cathedral, who congratulated to do the work of God effectively. filled with singing, dancing, non-stop ministry of HOLD. (Malou Clarito)
the Handmaids of the Lord for doing Doromal gave Session 2, “The Sol- music and endless fun and fellowship.

ANCOP USA Tele-Edukasyon Program in Full Swing First Netherlands iTours—Another Creative
proceed to the various subject
areas where they need help and Fundraising for Scholars
receive on-line modular/topical brought guests to the Dolfinarium Harderwijk,
lessons with accompanying vid- better known as the Dolfinarium, a marine mam-
eos. The students can also post mal park in Harderwijk, the Netherlands. It is the
their questions relative to their largest marine mammal park in Europe.
assignments and be given help Majority of those who joined the tour were
by the teacher/tutor volunteer families who wanted to spend quality time with
assigned to that subject area. each other while enjoying the features of the
The ANCOP USA Tele-Edu- marine park. Among the attractions of the Dol-
kasyon tutoring program is han- finarium were the sea lions, the huge walruses
dled by volunteer teachers/educa- and the intelligent dolphins.
tors from CFC Maryland who are The tour began at 9:00 in the morning and lasted
certified experts in their respective till 4:30 in the afternoon. Needless to say, the tour
subject areas. Initially the subject “GIVE and gifts will be given to you; a good participants went home with smiles on their faces.
areas/contents are Math, English, measure, packed together, shaken down, and And why not? The children had fun with their
ROGER Santos, ANCOP USA way to help ANCOP USA Child Science and History. parents and the families were given a chance to
Executive Director, announced Sponsorship Program scholars overflowing, will be poured into your lap. For the
ANCOP USA and PAYATAS measure with which you measure will in return contribute to the scholarship funds of ANCOP.
that Phase 1 of their pilot pro- who are in the elementary and Orione Foundation aim to The first ever iTour at the Dolfinarium was
gram called ANCOP USA Tele- secondary levels. This program be measured out to you.” ~Luke 6:38 (NABRE)
strengthen education through This verse has been the guiding verse of CFC made possible through the efforts of the team
Edukasyon is in full swing in provides academic support tutoring via tele-video tutorials composed of Kim Russel Bugarin, Mhean Ven-
Dalahican, Quezon with CFC through tutoring/coaching and The Netherlands as they continue to initiate cre-
using Google Class. ative events in order to create opportunities for tura Bugarin (CFC), Susan Banares (HOLD), Wen-
Maryland teachers (Ronnie reinforcing concepts and sub- This program has a Phase dell Rulloda and Erick Arellano (SOLD), under
Chavez, Reman Abadejos, Pat ject matter learned in schools people to help raise funds for ANCOP. Every year,
2 which will be piloted in many Filipinos in The Netherlands look forward the supervision of ANCOP leaders Eugene and
Malazarte/ Mimoyand Allan/ by ANCOP USA scholars. Camarines Sur next year to Elena Varon.
Percy Depairine) and advisers The students are able to access to the fun and creative fundraising activities
service ANCOP scholars in of Couples for Christ for ANCOP, because they Aside from the iTour, the team has been re-
(Rod Bustos and Roger Santos) on-line tutorials using Google that area. It will become part sponsible for other creative fundraising activities
providing online tutoring via class technology that would desire to share their blessings with the ANCOP
of the Office of the Vice Presi- scholar in the Philippines. for ANCOP such as the iBowl (Bowling tourna-
Google Class. link them to the ANCOP USA dent’s program called Angat ment), iBBQ (barbecue-selling at the park during
The ANCOP USA Tele-Edu- Tele-Edukasyon online class. Recently, CFC The Netherlands organized
Buhay Program. (ANCOP the iTour as a fundraiser for ANCOP Education. summer season), and the ANCOP Global Walk,
kasyon tutoring program is a From there, the students can USA Communication) among others. (Erick Arellano)
The iTour was held on September 15, 2018, and

CFC SAIPAN REKINDLED Canadian Dignitaries Visit ANCOP Sites


a strategic CLP for potential new members in TWO Canadian dignitaries Kevin and Cindy were truly likewise visited residents of sev-
Saipan and a YFC youth camp. visited an ANCOP community delighted with the warm wel- eral houses, personally check-
Seeing the importance of the Church’s involve- in Parañaque City on August come of the students, parents, ing their living conditions and
ment and support for the activities, the Guam and 23. Member of Parliament from and home partners. Vinta also engaging in brief conversations
Saipan HOLD communicated with the Diocese of Manitoba Kevin Lamoureux proudly presented several with them.
Chalan Kanoa, covering Saipan, Tinian and Rota, and his daughter, Member of developments in the commu- Mr. Lamoureux told the AN-
represented by his Excellency Bishop Ryan Jimenez, the Legislative Assembly of nity including a municipal- COP team that this was his first
who forthwith welcomed and embraced CFC! Manitoba Cindy Lamoureux, sponsored library. time to experience this kind of
Everything progressed smoothly from there. went to the CFC ANCOP Rotary After their quick visit to tour. He admitted that this was
The diocese assigned the San Roque Parish as Community PAR1 in Brgy. La the site, the Canadian visitors a good experience for him as it
the venue of the planned activities. Parish Priest Huerta, Parañaque City. They inspected the ongoing con- allowed him to get involved.
Fr. Allan was likewise in full support and even were accompanied by CFC AN- struction of 32 homes in Brgy. Ms. Lamoureux also expressed
offered his parish to be the home of CFC Saipan! COP Canada Country Coordi- Moonwalk which will be named her gratitude for the generosity
Bong Arjonillo, Asia and Oceania Continent nators, Raymond and Manette the Rotary - CFC ANCOP PAR and hospitality of the families
Director, and CFC President Michael Ariola Acero, ANCOP Community 2 St. Paul Homes. whose homes they visited. She
threw their support for the venture. The Global Development Head Ric dela Mr. Lamoureux, in his mes- also had a good time with the
Mission Center (GMC) through Ariola, sent full- Rosa, former Rotary Club of sage to the home partners, children. She expressed the
time pastoral worker for YFC Gerald Manapsal Parañaque East President Rene said, “Always have hope, always hope and expectation that she
IT STARTED as an ordinary conversation and to spearhead the activities. Aquino, and other members of strive to have stronger faith, will, in future, take an active
reflections over the just-concluded “Rekindle” With the concurrence of the CFC Guam Gover- the Rotary. believe in organizations like part in learning about children
conference in Guam over dinner last May 29 nance Team, the mission was finally set into mo- St. Andrew Rotary Club the Rotary and ANCOP, because and finding ways how to make
between CFC Guam Handmaids of the Lord tion. The Rekindle Conference was scheduled for of Parañaque President Jose they can make a difference in their education better. (Patria
member Pauline Santos and CFC Guam member August 31, simultaneous with the YFC youth camp, Vinta welcomed the guests. your life.” Father and daughter Iane Balilla)
Beng Cortez, and Guam Country Coordinator while the strategic Christian Life Program (CLP) was
Jess and Mercy Ferrer. No one imagined that the held on the weekend of September 1 and 2. ANCOP USA NORTHEAST TURNS OVER HOSPITAL EQUIPMENT TO OVP
conversation would turn out to be grace-filled The mission team was composed of the Ferrer
and Spirit-led, and result in the revival of the couple who, aside from being Guam Country
CFC mission in Saipan. Coordinator, is also the Head of the CFC Migrants
Pauline and Beng had both lived in Saipan and Program), Eugene & Bibian Galvo (from MM
were products of the first CLPs there, so it was North A), Pauline Santos (Guam HOLD), Beng
but natural that a discussion of Saipan would Cortez (Guam CFC), Gerald Manapsal (FTPW
prick their interest and rekindle their passion YFC), Tim Santos (YFC Guam), Patrick Chin (SFC
to see the community bloom again in that part Guam), and Zion Leon Guerrero (SFC Guam).
of the world. The two wasted no time in getting After about 18 years since the last CFC activity
in touch with their co-CLP graduates in Saipan and spiritual nourishment, CFC Saipan is now
to organize a weekend reunion for the purpose revived, rekindled and “on fire” to continue the
of enlisting their assistance in the conduct of CFC Mission! (J. Ferrer)

CFC Calgary Donates to Retired Priests ANCOP USA Northeast Region turned over hospital and medical equipment worth $10,000 to Vice President Leni Robredo’s Angat

of the Diocese, ANCOP Buhay Program.


This is an offshoot of VP Robredo’s attendance at an ANCOP Northeast Region fund-raising last May 19, 2018 in New Jersey for
this purpose. The equipment will be brought to an infirmary in Calabanga, Camarines Sur.
THE leaders of Couples for The “Love More Benefit Con- Olin Molina (for her own com-
Christ Calgary met with His cert” was organized by Chapter position “Lift You Higher);
Excellency Bishop William Mc- North A1 headed by Ronnel Denniela Quebec, who did a
Grattan on September 4, 2018 Apil in partnership with Fr. ballet number; and CFC Youth
at the Diocese office to present a John Pinto and Christ’s Own members Joanna Albino, Sha-
cheque of donation amounting People Production. It was held ron Perez, Sabrina Yepes, Aya
to $7,296. on July 14, 2018 at St. Thomas Mamenta, Jheanna Antasuda,
The said amount was half of More Parish. Cassie Kee, Jovina Pagente,
the net proceeds from the suc- The concept was the brain- Edwin Mari Manalastas, Rey-
cessful “Love More Benefit Con- child of Carlos O. Perez, CFC mon Gumangan, and Delrey
cert” which raised funds for the Calgary Church Relations Coor- Gumangan.
housing of the retired priests dinator and founder of Christ’s Guest of honor Bishop Emeri-
of the Diocese of Calgary. The Own People Production. tus Frederick Henry delivered a
other half of the proceeds was Perez offered ten of his origi- very timely message to the au-
given to ANCOP Area Coordi- nal songs for this concert, three dience about the retired priests.
nators Ernie and Beng Cancio of which (God Is Faithful, God After his speech, Manny Canete,
for ANCOP Canada. Is Good, This Is Our Way Of CFC Calgary sector head prayed
During the meeting, the Life) were winners in the 2013 over the guest clergy which in-
Bishop shared important in- First North America CFC Glory cluded Bishop Eugene Cooney,
formation regarding programs Songwriting Contest. They were Fr. Rudy Badiola, Fr. Bill Tri-
and future plans for the retired interpreted by Laurie and Leah enekens, Fr. Arjay Abanto, Fr.
priests. Fr. Adrian Martens, Callao and Franz Faeldo. Rodel Abanto, Fr. John Pinto
Bishop Paul Simick Apostolic Vicariate of Nepal and ANCOP Canada President Ricky Cuenca signs a MOA to officially start the Education
Vicar for Lay associations was Other talents featured in and Fr. Godwin Pinto. (Ehlla Sponsorship Program In Kathmandu, Nepal with ANCOP Canada sponsoring 50 scholars. Fr. Richard Rai, administrator of Regina Amorie
also present. the concert were 17-year-old Albino & Carlos O. Perez) Catholic School; Eric Santiago, CFC Country Coordinator of Nepal; and Gyan Rai, Country Head of Nepal witness the MOA signing.

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