Quis nos separabit a caritate Christi? An gladius?

Saint Paul Scholasticate Newsletter

No. 2 Easter 2007

RIÈCCOCI!
by Giovanni Scalese, CRSP

After the encouraging success of the first

issue of iPaul, we show our face again. This
time we shall not tell you that we are here
(you already know it!), but to continue the talk
we started last time. Yes, because it was a real
conversation the one begun last December: we
wrote, and many of you replied (you can find
your messages among the Letters on this is-
sue). We keep no secret of the pleasure you
brought us. We will continue talking about
ourselves, not because we consider ourselves
so important, but because we want to share
our human and religious experiences with
you: we would like to let you enter, as far as it
is possible at a distance, into our lives. The concelebrant priests around Bishop Tagle and the two newly ordained priests
With this issue iPaul gets enriched with on February 18, 2007 at Lourdes Parish, Tagaytay
new contributions: even this, of course, cannot
but give us a great pleasure! We would like
our newsletter, even in its modesty, to stand May your hearts be filled with joy
out for the quality of its articles.
May your lives be richly blessed
A large space of this issue is about the
priestly ordination of two of our scholastics, By the Risen Lord Jesus Christ.
Jecker and Michael. In the life of a seminary an
ordination is always an important event. We

HAPPY EASTER!
know that it is just the beginning of a new
journey; but it represents also for the formation
community the completion of years-long ef-
forts. It is true, in this case the efforts were
made, for the most part, by others; but it does
not matter: it is a great satisfaction all the same.
HAVE A NICE READING AND HAVE A
THE BARNABITE FATHERS
FATHERS & SCHOLASTICS
BLESSED EASTER!
 No. 2 iPaul 2
Cover Story
ORDINATION TO PRIESTHOOD
OF DEACONS JECKER AND MICHAEL
by Isfridus Syukur, CRSP

“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me.” Eastern Samar but grew up in St. Bernard, So.
Leyte. He is the eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Mario
Last February 17, 2007 was a special day for Luego. He joined the Saint Anthony Ma. Zaccaria
our Congregation and also for the whole Church Seminary on May 28, 1995 and completed his
because our two deacons, Rev. Jecker M. Luego, five-year A.B. Philosophy on March 25, 2000 at
CRSP and Rev. Michael M. Sandalo, CRSP were Saint Camillus College Seminary in Marikina City.
ordained to the Priesthood. The ordination rite After the novitiate, he professed the vows on
took place at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish May 31, 2001 and was sent to Rome for his theo-
Church, Tagaytay City with His Excellency Most logical studies. Rev. Jecker studied in Rome from
Reverend Luis Antonio G. Tagle, D.D., Bishop of 2001–2003 and on March 2003, he flew back to
Imus as the ordaining prelate. All the fifteen the Philippines and opted to continue his stud-
Barnabite Fathers in the Philippines, priests ies at the Divine Word School of Theology, Tagaytay
from different religious congregations and from City where he is about to obtain his STB (= Bac-
the Dioceses of Antipolo and San Pablo were calaureate in Sacred Theology). At present, he is
also present. Two deacons from the Pontifical pursuing his M. A. in Mathematics in De La Salle
Institute for Foreign Missions (PIME) and an- University, Dasmariñas, Cavite.
other from the Diocese of Imus also assisted at (Continued on page 3)
the two-hour solemn Mass. The occasion was
also graced by the presence of our very own Su-
perior General Right Rev. Fr. Giovanni M. Villa,
CRSP and Fr. Mario M. Gadda, CRSP, the former
superior and father master of the two deacons
in Studentato Romano in Rome, Italy.
The Barnabite professed students served at
the Mass while the choir of Saint Anthony Ma.
Zaccaria Seminary in Marikina City provided the
songs and music. Present were, of course, the
families, relatives and friends of the two dea-
cons, the Angelic Sisters of St. Paul, the Little
Workers of the Sacred Heart, our college semi-
narians from Marikina and our lay affiliates, and
also a number of religious sisters and seminari-
ans here in Tagaytay. After the Mass everyone
proceeded to Saint Paul Scholasticate for the re-
ception which was prepared through the gener-
ous assistance of friends from barangay San Jose
and Buho, Amadeo.
Rev. Jecker Robredillo Luego is from St. Ber-
nard, Southern Leyte, Diocese of Maasin. “Jeck”
was born on September 26, 1978, in Dolores,
 No. 2 iPaul
Rev. Michael del Rosario Sandalo, CRSP hails
from San Mateo, Rizal, Diocese of Antipolo. Born
on June 3, 1979 in Marikina City, Metro Manila,
he is the youngest and the only son of Mr. and
Mrs. Segundino Sandalo, Jr. Rev. Michael en-
tered the Saint Anthony Ma. Zaccaria Seminary on
May 28, 1996. He finished his A.B. Philosophy in
Saint Camillus College Seminary in March 2001. He
made his First Religious Profession on May 31,
2002 and left for Rome, Italy on June 24, 2002 for
his theological studies. “Kuya Mike”, as we
fondly call him, obtained his STB at the Angeli-
cum University in Rome on June 13, 2005. Last
May 2006, he returned to the Philippines to
complete his seminary formation.
Rev. Jecker and Rev. Mike made their Sol-
emn Profession on August 6, 2006. They were
ordained to the diaconate on September 5, 2006
at the Imus Cathedral.
The Priestly ordination of Revs. Jecker and
Mike serves as an inspiration for us who are still
on the way. As we thank God for the gift of the
priesthood, so we thank the two of them for
their dedication and faithfulness to the vocation
they have embraced. We continue to pray that
they may remain steadfast in their faith in God
who has called, consecrated and sent them to be
His messengers of hope, love and peace to the
world. Finally we would like to say to them,
“You are priests forever like Melchizedek of
old”, “kayo ay Pari magpakailanman!”
To the newly ordained priests, CONGRATU-
LATIONS!
3
Priestly Ordination
A New Journey in
the Holy Spirit
by Jecker R. Luego, CRSP
“What do you feel now that you are about to be ordained
as priest?” This question was asked to me by a confrere few days
before my priestly ordination. I was not that sure what to an-
swer. Honestly, I did not feel anything extraordinary at that
time. It was contrary to what people were telling me: “You must
be so excited now. Probably you are already experiencing sleep-
less nights.” Such were the words that I heard from the persons I
know. I felt that they were so excited for me. As for me, I was
neither so tensed nor excited about my ordination.
Why did I feel that way? I did not know. Perhaps I felt that
way because I still had so many questions that nobody had
given me any satisfying answer. Why did I enter the seminary
and had reached this far? Did God really call me or I made my-
self called? If ever God called me why did he choose me sinner as
I am? I am not worthy to the priesthood, but how is it that my
superiors approved my ordination? These were the unending
questions that bothered me a lot and caused me to forget the
excitement of my getting ordained… I was afraid… I was afraid
because I am not worthy to become a priest… I was afraid that I
might have been wrong in my decision to get ordained as priest.
I feared the thought of waking up one day and realizing that I
am not for the priesthood. Maybe it was better that I did not re-
enter the Congregation. Perhaps I would be happy as a layman
or a father of a child or two. These thoughts disturbed me a lot.
They put my faith and vocation to the test. But God is my faith-
ful companion. He tells me that I should go on despite my imper-
fections and limitations. I should only trust Him and everything
will follow. God has been preparing me for a new journey...
As the days passed so quickly, the feeling of excitement did
not come to me. I thought that maybe I am not really meant for
the priesthood. Or maybe I just did not care about my ordina-
tion. But still, I had to go on because I have already come this
far with the conviction that God has called me and that I want
to become a priest. The thoughts were just part of the trap of the
enemy. And in these moments of doubts, prayer has been my
sure and only tool to get rid of them. God has been there beside
me trying to comfort me in so many ways. And with the persons
who encourage me, the “battle” seems not so burdensome. My
struggles are so heavy but with God and the people giving me
their moral support, they become so light that sure enough I will
(Continued on page 4)
 No. 2
overpower them easily. Yet this does not mean that the thought
was banished; on the contrary, it became so intense and annoy-
ing. Hence, the “battle” continued...
On the eve of my ordination, the excitement, confusion and
doubts crept in like a force trying to distract me. The thoughts
were very intense that I could barely sleep that night. I could not
imagine myself being ordained unworthy as I am. But the
words, “who is worthy anyway?”, somehow gave me a re-
assurance that God has called me so I should respond to him
despite of who I am. I may not be worthy, yes, but still it is God
who will make me worthy. It is God’s will so I do not have to
question it. I know that God’s will for me is always the best. I
may have a choice, but my choice must conform to that good-
ness of God. He knows who I am and He has called me in order
to form and mold me into the best person I can be. The tempta-
tions are there only to test me, my patience and perseverance...
and my faith and trust in God. I once failed before and I do not
want to fail again the second time... But I will always accept
failures if they are for my betterment... I was excited then be-
cause after waiting for so long, I finally reached the end of a
first journey.
The ordination day had finally come. The first station of
my way of the cross came to an end. The end, however, signifies
a new beginning. The beginning of a new journey started on the
ordination day. Bishop Tagle made me realize that I have to
carry the cross that goes along with the ministry that I have
received from the Lord. The Father sent to His beloved Son the
Holy Spirit. Now, that same Holy Spirit that guided Jesus
throughout His ministry will be imparted to me so as to do the
things that Jesus did in his lifetime and continues to fulfill in our
times through his ministers. On the day of my ordination, I have
come to comprehend how heavy the cross would be, but through
the Spirit’s grace it would be easy and light. Thus, the new jour-
ney has begun...
The thoughts and temptations were actually nothing in
comparison to the ministry that I will fulfill in my life. The min-
istry of love is heavier than the thousands of temptations that
the enemy would put upon my shoulders. Despite of the weight
there will be joys because it would be for the greater glory of
God. During the ceremony of ordination the thoughts continued
like clanging bells in my mind. They wanted me to stop from
getting ordained... I even thought that maybe they were right.
They might be telling me something… Yes they were telling me
that I am not for the priesthood. I am a useless servant who does
not deserve any reward from the Master… Yes, I am a wretched
servant but what can I do if God has led me into this kind of
life—to become his useless servant who does only what he
wills? However, God heals all sickness, even my infirmities and
iPaul 4
sinfulness. Thus, I do not fear anything. God’s grace is always
there. I should only be open to the promptings of the Holy Spirit.
I may be an unworthy and wretched servant, but God’s love
moves me within to purify and sanctify me along the way of
priesthood. God is always my refuge no matter what happens. In
this new journey, I am confident that He will guide me toward
the final destination of my existence, toward that door that will
ultimately open to me the ever ancient and ever new door of life.
Now, a month after my ordination, I have already faced
and still face many different trials that sometimes make me
think again the decision and action that I have done. The
thoughts and temptations become so strong that I need someone
stronger. Thank God, He is always there to help me move on
step by step. He gives me courage so that despite the burden of
my cross I may go on faithfully. However, in the short time of
my ordination I would say that I have already failed many
times to live out my priestly promise and ministry. The struggle
continues... The ups and downs are always there. But God pa-
tiently keeps me company. He suffers with me as I carry my
daily cross. Eventually, I hope that as I continue to trudge my
way of the cross, I may one day receive the promised glory that
Jesus made to his servants... Am I worthy? The question still
remains. Nobody can answer this... It is only I who can give the
answer and I have to live out that answer. God knows every-
thing. I leave to Him the judgment. The struggle continues, but
time and again the grace of God is like a flowing stream ready
to refresh me and give me the courage and generosity to respond
to the call and love of God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Please pray for me... pray for all the priests! Happy Easter!
Faces and moments of the ordination: the two newly or-
dained priests (on p. 2); the concelebration (on p. 3); the lay-
ing of hands on Fr. Jecker (below); Fr. Mike surrounded by
his friends from San Mateo, Rizal (on p. 5).
 No. 2 iPaul 5

A Message of Thanks from a Young Priest

by Michael dR. Sandalo, CRSP

I just can’t believe it! Am I just dreaming?! No,
it is true… PARI NA PO AKO!!
I am now a priest. After almost eleven years of
struggles and hard work… finally the race is over
and a new one has just begun. Looking back at the
years long past, I realize how countless were the
trials and victories, the joys and sorrows, the
“roller coaster rides” of life, even the stress and
tensions of doing exams and paper works… all I
have gone through. And one thing is sure, amidst
all these experiences God has been always my con-
stant Companion—“the wind beneath my wings”,
“the oasis in the desert of my soul”, my faithful
Friend, my loving Father.
Words are not enough to express my humble
gratitude and my “utang na loob” (debt of grati-
tude) to God for His love and goodness. Despite my
poverty and unworthiness, of my sins both great
and small, He has called me to share in the
Priestly Ministry. God, indeed, overlooked my sins
and entrusted to me the mission of Jesus, the High
Priest. Who would have known that a poor little
creature like me would become His instrument of
peace and salvation to His people? He did all this
out of His love for me. Truly, I have nothing to
boast and to be very proud of. My vocation to
priesthood and religious life are God’s gifts to me,
unworthy as I am. And so, I thank God a hundred-
fold for these wonderful and great Gifts I have ever
received from Him. Thank you, Lord my God!
God formed me by using certain individuals.
They were His instruments to encourage me when
I was down and out; to discipline me during mo-
ments of my hard-headedness; to teach me the val-
ues that are essential to grow into maturity. God
sent these beautiful people to become my compan-
ions in my journey. Indeed, I would never become
the person I am now without these wonderful peo-
ple. And to them I would like to express my sincer-
est thanks and appreciation.
—To my friends and relatives and most espe-
cially, to my family—my first catechists and forma-
tors who led me to the joy of appreciating life.
—To our formators especially Fr. Frank Papa,
Fr. Aldo Rizzi, Fr. Mario Gadda and Fr. Giovanni
Scalese for helping me to understand and savor the
beauty and the mystery of my vocation.
—To my confreres for their camaraderie, for
the laughters and jokes we indulged together and
even the fights and the “tampuhan blues” that en-
abled me to recognize my shortcomings and weak-
nesses. To Father General, Fr. Giovanni Villa, to
our fathers Fr. Enrico Sironi, Fr. Filippo Lovison,
Fr. Gabriel Patil, Fr. Giovanni Peragine, Fr. Giulio
Mariani of PIME and all the fathers I know and
crossed paths, for their Christ-like example in
words and deeds.
—To all my friends abroad especially the Fili-
pino workers in Italy; to all my Italian friends—i
ragazzi, i bambini e le buone persone, i nostri com-
pagni di corso Giovanni e Leonardo e tutti quanti
conosco e con i quali ho fatto amicizia—GRAZIE DI
CUORE!
—To all my professors and educators especially
Fr. Robert Christian, O.P., who all accompanied me
towards the appreciation of the truth and the mys-
teries of our faith.
—To all the persons and the children sent by
God who taught me humility, patience and compas-
sion.
TO ALL OF YOU,
MARAMING SALAMAT PO!!
And as I have said, a new journey has just be-
gun. Please accompany us with your prayers. En-
courage us whenever we get disheartened.
Strengthen us when we commit mistakes. I am
your priest… please remember me and all the
priests in your prayers.
Again, thank you and let us work together in
the Lord’s vineyard.
 No. 2 iPaul
“Sabi ni Father…!”
IT TAKES A VILLAGE
by Giovanni Scalese, CRSP
An ancient African proverb says: “It takes a village
to raise a child.” It became famous in 1996, when then
U.S. First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton published a
book entitled It Takes a Village: And Other Lessons Chil-
dren Teach Us, republished last year as the “10th Anniver-
sary Edition” (Simon & Schuster, December 2006).
Personally, I find this proverb deeply wise. Usually
we are inclined to think that education is the task of
some experts, parents in the first place and teachers.
And we are all ready to rail at family and school when
we realize that the new generations do not come up to
our expectations. It is obvious that the family and
school play an invaluable role in the formation of a per-
son; but nobody ever realizes the responsibility of the
whole society. We often forget that “No man is an is-
land,” neither as individual nor as part of a community:
we are like fish totally immersed in the ocean. We can-
not remain unaffected by the water surrounding us. So
what could the family and school do when the whole
society destroys what they try so laboriously to build? If
the message transmitted by society (fashion, advertising,
culture, media, etc.) contradicts the values received at
home and at school, it is obvious that the child is in-
clined to consider those values as the part played by
some who have to do it by trade: it is mere play-acting;
the real values, worth assimilating, are not those taught
by parents and teachers but those “breathed” in the
environment where you live.
When I was a child, our whole “village” spoke
more or less the same language: you left your home to
go to school or to the parish or to the playground, and
you heard everywhere the same messages; you flipped
through the newspaper or turned on the radio or TV,
and you found the same old story; you could be walking
along the road or go to buy milk and you met a passer-
by or the milkman, who taught you the same lesson.
Nowadays it is no longer so: now it is enough for you
to open the newspaper or turn on the TV or leave
home to realize that there is a “conflict of values.” To
which of them to pay attention? Obviously, to the most
attractive and the least demanding.
The same can be said, mutatis mutandis, with regards
to religious formation. Even in this field we are usually
inclined to delegate this kind of education to some spe-
cialists, the so-called “formators” (if you search for this
word in an English dictionary, you will not find it),
overburdening them with a responsibility often beyond
6
their real possibilities, always ready to criticize them and
to blame them for any failure, and forgetting the re-
sponsibilities of the entire “village.”
What can a poor Father Master do when everything
around him seems to plot against his endeavors? A for-
mator should train his students in community prayer:
what good is it if they know that when they are priests
everything will be left to their personal initiative? A for-
mator should educate young religious in poverty: what
is the use of that, if once priests they will be able to dis-
pose more or less freely huge amounts of money? In all
seminaries here in Tagaytay (I do not know elsewhere)
students are required to wear, at least in some occa-
sions, their cassock or religious habit: but where is the
sense in that if no priest or religious ever uses distin-
guishing attire? (I remember when I was a student in
Rome, one day a confrere came and visited us in our
Studentato, and he complained with our superiors be-
cause the scholastics did not wear the traditional
Barnabite habit. He would have been right, if it were
not… that he did not wear it either.) These are just
some examples to emphasize how the efforts of forma-
tors are totally useless if they are not accompanied by
the example and testimony of all. Even in this case, “it
takes a village to raise a child.” Correctly, the Ratio
barnabitica states: “The whole Congregation feels re-
sponsible for the formation of its members” (#93).
This norm cannot be implemented just with the how-
ever due prayer of all confreres for those engaged in
formation; what is necessary is an active involvement of
everyone in the educational process; not because one
wants to downplay or limit the responsibilities of those
in charge, but to confirm, authenticate and strengthen
their work with the lived experience of all. Otherwise,
certain teachings will be always mistaken for the
“fixation” of some saintly Father Master.
And I would add that not even the involvement of
the whole Congregation is enough if the contribution
of the entire Church is missing: bishops, priests, lay
people… everyone should feel responsible for the for-
mation of their future ministers. Sometimes some
girls… if only, instead of flirting with seminarians,
they help them to persevere in their vocation! Then
really the whole village would pursue the same goal
and maybe education would be far more effective. It
takes a village to raise a child… it takes a Church to
raise a priest!
 No. 2
TAGAYTAY: HISTORY, TOPOGRAPHY, LANDMARKS
by Roan Cipriano J. Aborque, CRSP
The Saint Paul Scholasticate of the Barnabites in
the Philippines is located in the city of Tagaytay,
Province of Cavite. There are, however, quite a lot
of people who are not familiar with the fast-
growing Tagaytay City. This article is meant to
introduce the city of Tagaytay and to invite every-
one to come and visit.
History
A legend tells us that the word “Tagaytay”
comes from the Tagalog words “tagá” meaning a
big cut made by a large knife or bolo and “itáy”
which means father. The story narrates that a
father and a son were said to be in a wild boar
hunt when the animal they were chasing turned
to attack them. As the boar charged towards the
old man, the son shouted “taga itay!” which liter-
ally means cut with a bolo father. The boy’s re-
peated shouts echoed in the alleys of the ridge.
Heard by the residents, hunters and wood gath-
erers, the voice became subject of conversation.
In time, the place where the shouts came from
became known as Tagaytay.
During the Philippine revolution of 1896, the
ridges and forests of Tagaytay became the sanc-
tuary for revolutionaries including those from
iPaul 7
nearby provinces. Tagaytay became a chartered
city on June 21, 1938 when Philippine President
Manuel Luis Quezon signed Commonwealth Act
No. 338, a bill authored by Representative
Justiano S. Montano of Cavite.
Topography
The City of Tagaytay (Lungsod ng Tagaytay) is
situated in the southern part of the province of
Cavite, Philippines. It is approximately 55 kilo-
meters (34.18 miles) away from Manila, the capi-
tal of the Philippines.
Tagaytay lies 120° 56’ longitude and 14° 16’
latitude. It overlooks Manila Bay on the north
and Taal Lake on the south. Tagaytay City is
situated on top of Tagaytay ridge, which is 640
meters above sea level, the highest point in
Cavite. The ridge provides a spectacular view of
Taal Lake and Taal Volcano (the smallest vol-
cano in the world) in Batangas Province.
Tagaytay City’s climate is characterized by
relatively low temperature, low humidity and
abundant rainfall. The city is endowed with a
cool and invigorating climate with an average
temperature of 22.7°C. Situated approximately
600 meters above sea level, the city is misty and
is relatively cooler during the months of Decem-
ber, January and February. Like most areas in
the Province of Cavite, the city has two pro-
nounced seasons: dry from November to April
and wet during the rest of the year. The climate
has made the city very ideal for get-aways, pic-
nics, conferences, country homes and spiritual
retreats. Tagaytay has an average humidity of
78% which makes the city cooler than Metro Ma-
nila. Northeasterly winds prevail in the city from
October to April. Winds come from southwest
from May to September.
Tagaytay City has vast resources and pos-
sesses tremendous potentials for development in
tourism and agriculture. It is envisioned to be-
come a city that is rich and comfortable to live in
(Continued on page 8)
 No. 2
and visit, with flowers in bloom and fruits along
roadsides, ridges and mountains swathed in
green, pure and unpolluted air and climate al-
ways invigorating.
Landmarks
The city of Tagaytay is a tourist attraction for
local and foreign visitors. It is an excellent van-
tage point of Taal Lake and Volcano. Tagaytay
offers a breathtaking sight of the famous Taal
Lake—a lake within an island within a lake.
Tagaytay’s playground is the popular Picnic
Grove. With thatch huts lining the gentle slopes
and a prime location provides the finest view of
the volcano far below.
People’s Park in the Sky. An artful blending of
natural and man-made attractions, poised on the
highest point of Tagaytay City. It stands on a 4,516
sq. meters solid ground and overlooks four bodies
of water namely Taal Lake, Balayan Bay, Laguna
de Bay and Manila Bay. It is located at Dapdap
West and Dapdap East, approximately 6 to 7 kilo-
meters away from Silang Crossing (Rotunda).
The breathtaking view of Taal Volcano (photo: R. Kosek)
iPaul 8
The interior of Tagaytay parish church
Tagaytay played a significant role in Philip-
pine history. During World War II, Filipino sol-
diers found refuge on its vast forests and ridges.
It was used as landing site and sanctuary for
paratroopers on their way to liberate Manila.
The 41st USAFFE (United States Armed Forces
in the Far East) Marker is a place where you will
know more about Tagaytay’s rich political his-
tory. It is located next to the Metro Tagaytay
College of Business and Arts, Kaybagal South,
Tagaytay City.
11th Airborne Division Marker. On Febru-
ary 03, 1945, the 11th Airborne Division of Lt.
Gen. William Krueger’s 8th Army airdropped
military supplies and personnel on the Tagaytay
Ridge amidst enemy ground fire. Their mission
was to secure Tagaytay City and guarantee the
easy flow of troops and supplies to Manila, an
action later proved as significant to the liberation
of Manila. A marker was made at the Silang
Crossing to honor the event.
Japanese Friendship Garden. This 1,200 sq.
meter garden was constructed to inculcate the value
of freedom, peace and international unity into the
hearts and minds of the people. It is located in front
of Development Academy of the Philippines Con-
ference Center, Sungay East, Tagaytay City.
Tagaytay City could be on top of the list of
places in the Philippines that offer a cool, clean
and comforting place to live in. It is indeed a
place worth visiting if one needs time for relaxa-
tion and family outings. I invite you for an ex-
perience of a soothing and relaxing visit.
 No. 2 iPaul 9
Buhay Seminaryo… a Reflection
Scholasticate Life: An Integral and Holistic Formation
by Jose Nazareno S. Gabato, CRSP

Most people think that life in the seminary is B- prayer includes examination of conscience and
O-R-I-N-G. My friends are so skeptical whenever I Compline. We believe that a community that prays
tell them that seminary life is exciting and chal- together, stays together.
lenging. They think that the only two things semi-
narians do are to pray and to read/study the Bible. Academic Life: Formation of Conscience
With this mindset, they wonder how we are able to
According to Canon Law (can. 1032 §1) an
live this kind of lifestyle.
ecclesiastical degree in Theology is one of the req-
I admit that we pray a lot and read the Bible of-
uisites for ordination. In some schools it takes three
ten. Yet a seminarian’s life does not only evolve
years to get a degree while in other schools it takes
around these two activities. Spiritual life is part of the
four years excluding the Pastoral Formation Year
seminarians’ holistic formation. There are other ac-
(PFY). To obtain a degree in Theology is not easy.
tivities which make life challenging within the four-
It takes many long sleepless nights to accomplish
walls of the seminary. Such activities make one forget
paper works and readings. Some even skip their
the “call” beyond these hallowed walls.
recreation time or afternoon rest in order to study
Scholasticate life is an integral and holistic forma-
or finish research works. Studying Theology re-
tion. We are not being trained to become mystics or
quires great effort and “sacrifice”. A scholastic
monks. Aside from the spiritual training we are being
needs to study hard and exert all his efforts to be
molded to be rational, compassionate and loving,
prepared academically for his future ministry. I
meek and patient individuals. As future priests we
believe that an easy-go-lucky seminarian will be an
need a compassionate and a loving heart and an in-
ineffective and idle minister someday. To be a
sightful mind. Our life in the scholasticate is basically
good priest requires a lot of study, knowledge and
a formation of these qualities and values.
personal assimilation of the doctrines, laws and the
liturgy of the Church. Intellectual formation is in-
Spiritual Life: Source of the Soul’s Nourishment
deed necessary for those who are called to the min-
We consider both prayer and reading the Bible istry of priesthood. We, scholastics, know that it is
as the soul’s “thirst quencher”. Reading the Bible not easy. But no matter how difficult it may be, we
and other spiritual books are not boring practices are determined “to finish the race”. Discourage-
but consoling and invigorating ones. I never find ments do not exist in our vocabulary. We are con-
any books more inspiring than the Bible especially vinced that God provides us the strength to over-
the life of Jesus and His parables. Reading the Scrip- come any challenge. We will do our best and God
tures is a very inspiring and satisfying moment for will do the rest.
the soul. It makes the soul healthy. It drives the
readers to realize God’s love and goodness.
Likewise, prayer is the soul’s “thirst quencher”.
It makes our spiritual life healthy. It is the source
of the soul’s nourishment similar to reading the
Bible. It is an integral part of our life’s formation. I
believe that a scholastic who does not pray will not
persevere in his vocation and he could be likened
to a plant in a dry land. It withers and dies due to
lack of water. Thus, prayer is very essential in our
life. In our scholasticate, aside from having time
for one’s personal prayer, we also gather thrice a
day for the communal prayers: morning prayer con-
sists of Meditation, Lauds and Mass; evening prayer
is composed of Meditation and Vespers; night
 No. 2
Community Life: Formation of the Heart
Living in a religious community with persons
with different mentalities, attitudes and experiences
is very challenging. It is not easy to live with peo-
ple whom you do not choose to be with. Do expect
that in a religious community, where people have
different faces and colors, different behaviours also
exist. If you can bear the most gruesome features
definitely you can also bear the most gruesome atti-
tudes! How? Through patience, understanding,
love and forgiveness. However, if you are a person
who easily gets irritated and annoyed, then you
have a limited chance of survival inside the semi-
nary. Living in a community with people having
different attitudes and cultures requires great pa-
tience and understanding, love and forgiveness. In
a “band of men” tensions and conflicts can occur
any time. However, it is considered as part and
parcel of our community life. If we do not learn
patience and understanding, fist fights and “war of
words” may happen at any time. And in these cir-
cumstances, we are being formed to be patient, to
understand, to forgive our confreres who hurt us.
Hence, our hearts are being fashioned according to
the heart of Christ. Indeed, we do not allow hatred
to ruin our day.
Apostolate: A Call to Serve
We are being formed not only in the seminary.
During weekends we have our apostolic activities,
also considered as our “pastoral exposure.” Just
like the apostles we are sent in pairs (we bring
nothing except the guitar and songbook!).
iPaul 10
Before, I was anxious and hesitant to have this
weekend apostolate. I was worried what would
happen to me and to all of us in our apostolate. I
was afraid to be assigned in an unwelcoming com-
munity. But I realized that it is an important prepa-
ration to become future missionaries. We have to
prepare ourselves because as religious God may
send us to the missions anytime. Indeed, as St.
Paul says, “it is the love of Christ that urges us
on” (2 Cor 5:14) to go serving the “poorest of the
poor” and to preach about this love that drives us
to serve. Therefore, our weekend apostolate, in es-
sence, is a form of service. It is in our apostolate
that we are being trained to become servants to all.
As future priest, we are being fashioned to be like
Jesus “who came not to be served but to serve.”
We try to inculcate in our hearts and minds the
value of service because priesthood is a life of ser-
vice. We serve not for the sake of helping people
but out of LOVE—love of God and of our
neighbors.
Scholasticate life is a holistic formation. We
are not only being formed spiritually. Rather, we
are being trained holistically and that makes our
life exciting, challenging, inspiring and awesome!
Like university students and young bachelors, we
also experience difficulties and struggles—and all
these make seminary life worth living. Indeed, the
life of a scholastic is totally I-N-S-P-I-R-I-N-G and
not boring at all.
Moments of community life: liturgical service for the ordination
(previous page); outing in Puerto Galera (on the left); the recognition
day for Tahanan children on March 14, 2007 (on the top).
 No. 2 iPaul 11

FR. GIOVANNI SEMERIA, BARNABITE

“SERVANT AND APOSTLE TO THE ORPHANS”
by Thomas Federick S. Tabada, CRSP

To Fr. Semeria our Tahanan Mapag-aruga is dedi-

cated. At the conclusion of the celebrations for the 75th anniver-
sary of his death (March 15, 1931), we would like to commemo-
rate his service to the “poorest of the poor” through this short
biographical sketch.

Have you ever experienced “selling” yourself? One

of our fathers, Fr. Giovanni Semeria experienced this.
He used to say, “I sell myself for my orphans”, an expres-
sion of his life-long dedication to the service of the
orphans. His sense of dedication and self-giving are
marked with genuine service and love. He was con-
stantly on the move of helping those in need. For he
believes the words of St Luke: “Give and it will be
given to you, good measure, pressed down, shaken
together, running over, will be put into your lap; for
the measure you give will be the measure you get
back” (6:38).
Who is Fr. Giovanni Semeria?
Fr. Semeria was born in the Ligurian coast, Caldi-
rodi (a village in the municipality of Sanremo) in
1867. He lost his father at an early age. At the age of
fifteen he decided to dedicate his life to Christ by be- coming from the Lend-a-Hand Society was visibly
coming a Barnabite. The young Giovanni studied phi- seen in the character of Fr. Semeria. He dedicated his
losophy in Rome, where he received a religious and life in total service to God. The simple something that
cultural education inspired and enriched with great he did is a big thing to others; and this something
balance and especially a deep feeling of liberty and generated a change in the life of the orphans. What is
responsibility. He attended novitiate in Monza. In this something that I am talking about? This some-
1890 he was ordained priest in Rome where he re- thing is the establishment of two orphanages in 1919:
mained for the next five years. Fr. Semeria was then one in Amatrice (Rieti) and the other in Gioia del
transferred to Genoa, at St. Bartholomew’s, which Colle (Bari). Both were the beginnings of his mission,
will become the center of his future activities. It was that is, to help the orphaned children. Within a span
in Genoa where he founded the Superior School of Relig- of five years, Fr. Semeria established nine shelter-
ion (this “school” was created to recognize that the laboratories in Calabria, eleven in Basilicata, four in
modern thought is suitable to the Gospel. The mes- Campania and three in Abruzzo. He also founded
sage of the gospel is not changed but only translated fourteen summer camps on the Alps and one on the
with creativity and expressed it to the new current of shore in Monterosso (La Spezia). Today, these labo-
theology. However, this caused him to silence and ratories and shelters are under the direction of the
exile in Brussels) and initiated many charitable ac- Disciples of Don Minozzi who was his companion in
tivities including orphanages he himself established. building these orphanages.
Fr. Semeria is one of the persons who probably Fr. Semeria’s works were marked with excellence
will say, “I am only one but still I am one who cannot and service, indeed, an expression of great acts of
do everything. But still I can do something and be- love. Because of these, he came to be known as the
cause I cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do
(Continued on page 12)
the something that I can do.” This famous statement
 No. 2
servant of the orphans or the apostle to the orphans. Truly,
these titles bear his ardor, enthusiasm and spirit to-
wards helping the orphans of the World War I. His
animated spirit and his closeness to the children were
clearly manifested in his first assignment in Genoa
where he became the director of St. Alexander Sauli
Club. As director, he trained them in theatrical arts
and other skills beneficial to them, aside from teach-
ing religion and sports. This method of approaching
the children is also his way of guiding the orphans.
He directed the orphans with gentleness yet with
firmness.
Fr. Semeria was a very prolific writer who wrote
a number of books and articles on Theology. How-
ever, he was suspected of promoting Modernism in
his written works. His wit and intelligence snatched
him to silence and exile but this did not stop him in
helping others. Nicola Raponi reports about the si-
lencing of Fr. Semeria: “Fr. Semeria had suffered many
humiliations as he was accused to profess too daring
ideas and was suspected of heresy. He was forbidden
to preach, and, though never formally condemned, he
was forced to leave his own country into exile, rele-
gated to a remote community of confreres in Brussels.
He remained there until the vigil of World War I.”
We are then exhorted, by the works of Fr. Se-
meria, to imitate his great acts of love not by estab-
lishing orphanages but through habitually perform-
ing small acts of kindness towards our neighbor. It is
in these small acts of kindness that we bring sunshine
to the lives of others. The famous adage indicates:
“Kindness is Christianity with its working clothes
on.” It is the kindness in a person that wins our love.
Fr. Semeria won the hearts of the people because of
his generosity and love to the orphans.
Fr. Semeria lived the following words of Mother
Theresa of Calcutta: “Let us not be satisfied with just
giving money. Money is not enough, money can be
got, but they need your hearts to love them. So spread
your love everywhere you go, first of all in your home,
give love to your children, to your wife or husband, to
a next-door neighbor.”
Fr. Semeria died on March 15, 1931 in Sparanise
(Caserta). His remains are buried in Istituto Padre
Semeria di Monterosso al Mare (La Spezia, Italy). The
diocesan process for the canonization of Fr. Semeria
was started in 1984. We hope that in the years to
come the Church will honor him by enrolling him in
the long list of saints.
Source: Clerics Regular of St. Paul, A Tradition of Holiness and
Scholarship (Philippines: Marikina, 1998), 59-63.
iPaul 12
Fullness of life
by Robert B. Kosek, CRSP
Bethlehem, PA, February 18, 2007
Dear Friends of Tahanan:
The Most Reverend Bishop Luis Antonio G. Tagle, D.D.,
Rev. Giovanni Scalese, CRSP, Rector
The FMIJ Sisters,
The Hospitales Sisters of Mercy,
Barnabite Confreres, Saint Paul Scholasticate,
Benefactors,
Families of the Center and People of Good will:
Please and love of Jesus Christ be with you!
On the 18th of February 2007 we celebrate the first
anniversary of the blessing of Tahanan Mapag-Aruga ni
Padre Semeria in Tagaytay, Philippines. Bishop Luis An-
tonio G. Tagle, Bishop of Imus Cavite blessed the work
in the presence of God with these words: “Fullness of
Life is what I pray for you.” The Lord has worked great
things among us. And we have seen His power mani-
fested among us! Yes, and so our hearts rejoice with
His Spirit because of all that God was able to accom-
plish through us, among us, and for us all throughout
this whole year: May God be praised for His marvelous
deeds and continue to bless us with His endless love!
I must confess that for me an occasion like this
becomes an opportunity to reflect upon the unfolding
plans of divine presence. Within this divine setting we
attempt to unravel and discern God’s desires and act
upon them. As I do so I grow ever deeper aware of
God’s providential love, and that without it nothing
could come to life.
I never expected that my fourteen month long Fili-
pino experience would change my soul and heart forever
more. That experience afforded me the opportunity to
gain more wisdom of heart: to see and hear “that the
LORD is great, that our Lord is greater than all gods.
The Lord does whatever pleases him, in the heavens and
on the earth, in the seas and all their depths” (Ps 135:5-
6). And to know as well that all that spiritual insight was
granted to me by God as pure grace: that neither a naked
eye sees nor an ear can scrutinize it (cf Ps 135:16). What
kind of reality am I referring to?
Let me clarify this reality by saying that during that
time I became even more assured that: “God is love,
and he who abides in love abides in God, and God
abides in him” (1 Jn 4:16) and more… I have grown
into a more profound awareness and appreciation of
 No. 2 iPaul 13
what it means to live out God’s love among the poor of ing them to college. Moreover, there are on-going edu-
this world, i.e., both spiritual and material. How is it cational programs for children and mothers, as well as a
possible to learn about God and His godly love amidst livelihood program conducted by the Barnabite Semi-
immense human poverty and misery? The answer is narians. Thank you again for making God’s love a tan-
one: “We have come to believe in God’s love.” This act of gible reality for so many brothers and sisters living amid
faith has a lasting impact on all of one’s decisions in hopelessness and misery. The next time we pray “Thy
life. Thus “being Christian is not the result of an ethical kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth, as it is
choice or a lofty idea, but the encounter with an event, heaven,” we can wholeheartedly believe in the fulfill-
a person, which gives life a new horizon and a decisive ment of that promise.
direction” (Deus Caritas Est, 1). What was my experience So let us entrust all the families we help and all the
of Jesus on the Asian road to Emmaus? Where and in good ‘Samaritans’ to the motherly love of Mary:
whom did I come to recognize Him? “O Holy Mary, Daughter of the Most High God,
I saw countless faces of the poor and hungry chil- Virgin Mother of the Savior and Mother of us all,
dren, mothers’ hands begging for mercy. I heard voices look tenderly upon the Church of your Son
crying in desperation for mercy, and the Lord was in each planted on Asian soil.
one of them. Yes, it was Jesus in the poor and hungry Be her guide and model
asking me for food. Yes, it was Jesus whose hands were as she continues your Son’s mission
begging me for mercy. Yes, it was Jesus’ voice of despera- of love and service in Asia.(…)
tion crying for mercy from me. It was Him indeed! O Mary, Mother of the New Creation and Mother of Asia, pray
“The Lord has identified himself with them in a for us, your children, now and always!”
special way (cf Mt 25:40). This love excludes no one, (Ecclesia in Asia, 51)
but simply embodies a priority of service to which the Your Brother in Christ,
whole Christian tradition bears witness. ‘This love of Fr. Robert B. Kosek, CRSP, Ph.D.
preference for the poor, and the decisions which it in-
spires in us, cannot but embrace the immense multi- The rainbow appeared above our house on the eve of its inauguration,
tudes of the hungry, the needy, the homeless, those November 9, 2005 (Photo: R. Kosek)
without medical care and, above all, those without hope
of a better future. It is impossible not to take account
of the existence of these realities. To ignore them
would mean becoming like the ‘rich man’ who pre-
tended not to know the beggar Lazarus lying at his gate
(cf Lk 16:19-31)’” (Ecclesia in Asia, 34). However the
story does not end here. The Lord did not want me to
walk alone, or to be overwhelmed by the work to be
done. He desired to send my way a lot of His good
friends to ease the burden of the call, and so He did
indeed. Without these friends, and their generosity of
heart, it would not have been possible to accomplish
God’s desire — Tahanan Mapag-Aruga ni Padre Semeria.
“How can I repay the Lord for all the good done for
me?” (Ps 116:12) On this day, the first anniversary of the
blessing of Tahanan Mapag-Aruga ni Padre Semeria, I want
to give thanks to God for each one of you individually.
For indeed I consider to be truly blessed by God for
sending you into my life. I am grateful to God for send-
ing into my life: Bishop Luis Antonio G. Tagle, Rev.
Giovanni Scalese, CRSP, Religious Sisters from the
Congregations of the FMIJ and the Hospitals Sisters of
Mercy, Barnabite Confreres, Seminarians, and various
Benefactors from the Philippines and abroad. Together
we were able to make a brighter future to 8 children by
sending them to elementary school, to 3 youth by send-
ing them to high school, and to 2 young adults by send-
 No. 2 iPaul
Our Nearest “Kapit-bahay”
the Merciful Sisters
by Clyd S. Autentico, CRSP
Before our seminary was constructed
here in Tagaytay, there were many religious
congregations already present in the area. In
Purok 92 (but in the same road: once it was
called “SMSK Road”), Barangay San Jose,
Tagaytay, we can find our nearest “kapit-
bahay”, neighbors: the Merciful Sisters.
They came to the Philippines in 1986 and
established themselves in Tagaytay City in
1996. Their convent is approximately
twenty-five meters away from our scholasti-
cate house. Everyday our fathers celebrate
Mass for them.
The congregation of the Merciful Sisters
was founded by Mother Francesca Sem-
porini and Fr. Achille Fosco, OFMConv on
May 07, 1947 in Rionero Atella, Potenza, It-
aly. The charism of the congregation is re-
flected on their name: works of mercy. Their
apostolic works include: parish activities,
teaching in schools, working in orphanages
and retreat houses and teaching catechism.
The Merciful Sisters has three houses in
the Philippines: the “Mother of Mercy Spiri-
tual Center” (Tagaytay) which is both a re-
treat house and the novitiate house; they
have an orphanage in Malabag, Silang,
Cavite; and the other house is in Quezon
14
City, Metro Manila. They also have religious
communities in Tanzania (Africa) and in It-
aly. To date, there are about eighty sisters in
their congregation including thirty-two pro-
fessed Filipina sisters (both in perpetual and
temporary vows). Their Mother General is
Rev. Mo. Valeria Dema who resides in their
motherhouse in Italy. Their Mother Delegate
here in the Philippines is Mo. Paula Advin-
cula, who is based here in Tagaytay and
serves as both mother superior and novice
mistress.
The Sisters also do medical missions with
the cooperation of their friend doctors and
nurses. They give free medicines to poor
families living nearby and feed some poor
children. Their orphanage in Silang, Cavite,
which was established last year, is open to
shelter poor and orphaned children.
The presence of the Merciful Sisters is a
big help to the people of Tagaytay City. In
their simple and humble life, they serve as
living witnesses of God’s love for the poor
and orphans.
The community of the Merciful Sisters with their Mother General (on
the left). On March 31, 2007 two of the novices made their first profes-
sion. Above, the façade of “Mother of Mercy Spiritual Center.”
 No. 2 iPaul
NURTURING
by Anonymous Barnabite
I remember one summer when I had gone home for a
slight vacation. My family had recently received a dog. Part
Black Labrador Retriever and part Collie. They had called
the dog “Lady.” During those two weeks that I was home I
would feed Lady, give her treats when she obeyed and did
well, play with her, and give her a lot of petting. Lady
would lie down alongside my bed at night and her neck or
back would be under my hand which hung over the side of
the bed. If I moved my arm she would start to whine and
cry until she had the security of my hand.
When the two weeks came to an end it was hard to say
good-bye to Lady; but, since my assignment was only about
90 minutes away by car, I knew I would be seeing her on
occasional visits. Unfortunately my family did not treat her
as well and often ignored her during the day.
About every six weeks I would get a weekend off and I
would normally go home for those few days. When I would
come through the door Lady would get all excited and jump
up on me and just go crazy. I would pet her and play for a
while as I talked with the family over a cup of coffee. Again
I would give her treats and feed her and again she would
sleep alongside my bed under my arm. She was now bigger
and she would actually push my arm so it would hang over
the side of the bed.
Most people said that she responded to me in that way
because I had nurtured her as a young pup. Feeding her,
teaching her, and petting her produced loyalty, trust, obe-
dience, and affection.
People need physical and emotional nurturing or feed-
ing just like Lady. This nurturing develops into an influence
upon another. My nurturing of Lady influenced her to re-
spond to me with loyalty, obedience, and trust. To influ-
ence does not denote authority. John Knox has said that
“one cannot antagonize and influence at the same time;”
unless maybe it does so in a reverse, kind of negative, man-
ner.
A mother takes care of a child at all times. The mother
will communicate positive feelings and concern for the
child. But a mother is also one who prepares her child for
when the child must be on its own. Therefore, how much
one nurtures and becomes independent says how much one
influences.
In the field of education teachers may be unaware of
how much they are capable of influencing their students. In
my copy of the 1983 yearbook, one of the graduates, one
whom I had never taught in the classroom, wrote that he
would never forget the lessons I gave him. I questioned him
15
about that. He said that he just saw how I interacted with
students, faculty, and staff. He mentioned that he always
heard a supportive word coming from my lips. As a teacher
I influenced someone with some great lessons, and they
never took place in the classroom. And by the way, as he
came off the stage with his diploma in hand, gave me a hug,
and said “thanks.” Albert Schweitzer says it best: “Example
is not the main thing in influencing others—it is the only
thing.”
One of the most important aspects in all this is that you
and your actions are to remain consistent. Lady learned to
do things correctly and well because I would consistently
give her a treat when she did them correctly and well. If I
had sometimes given her a treat when she did well and also
when she did badly, she would have been confused and not
have learned. It is like the experiment with Pavlov’s dogs.
They learned that when the bell would ring they would be
given food. Some psychologists would call that condition-
ing. Maybe so; but it is the consistency that influences and
effects the dogs as well.
Because of your consistency, others will also grow into
a sense of being secure with you. That sense of security adds
to the nurturing process as it produces trust. The words of
St. John Chrysostom come to mind when he said: “Men will
not attend to what we say, but examine into what we do.”
Our actions need to be consistent with our words or else
they will not be believed because our actions speak louder
than our words. Our consistency is the real teacher here as
it is the influencing factor.
With nurturing also comes respect. Respect can be
defined as the “recognition of the good in others.” This type
of respect will give one a sense of security because no mat-
ter what you do, the ones in your charge will know that you
will have only their good in mind.
A good friend of mine would always tell her children
“And remember that I love you” at the end of any type of
reprimand or punishment given. I asked her why she did
that. Patti said that it was because she wanted to teach her
children that loving sometimes requires correction and in a
punitive manner. This way her children would always know
that what she is doing is only out of love for them.
Another component of nurturing in dealing with re-
spect of others is to give recognition and appreciation to
others. We have a saying in North America to “give credit
where credit is due.” When someone receives recognition
or appreciation it makes them stand proud and tall. Why?
(Continued on page 16)
 No. 2 iPaul
(Continued from page 15)
Because it validates not only their actions but also who they
are as a person as well.
There was once an incident that took place in a semi-
nary. Someone had left the faucet running and the water
was overflowing from the sink on to the floor, leaving a
nice sized puddle of water. One of the novices shut the fau-
cet off, let the water in the sink go down the drain and be-
gan to mop up the water on the floor. One of the priests
came in followed by other seminarians. The priest asked
what he was doing. The novice told him what had happened
and how he was now mopping up the floor. His response to
the novice was: “Good, maybe you will loose a little
weight.” The novice most likely was expecting him to at
least say “Thank you.” He felt that no matter what he did,
good or bad, people always would see negative about him.
It made the novice start to think only negative things about
himself. He did not think he would be good enough to ever
take vows and be a good religious priest. He left the semi-
nary and a year later his car hit a cement wall and he was
instantly killed. The police said it was an accident because of
the curve on the road. Those of us who knew of this story
came to another conclusion.
There is this story about a ‘middle-aged plus’ Sister of
Mercy, Sister Mary Kathleen, who was teaching 5th grade in
St. John’s parish school. She found that the students did not
cooperate well and at times were actually rude to each
other. So she decided to give them an assignment. The next
day she gave them a list with the name of each person in her
class. She told the students that they are to write down next
to the person’s name one good thing about that person. The
students mumbled at first but soon were about the task.
Heads would pop up as they looked around at the students
and then busily begin to write down a positive quality. She
collected the papers and that night made a list of all the re-
spective good qualities under each student’s name. The
next day she distributed the list to her students. Smiles
would show up on their faces. You could even hear a few
saying: “Wow, that’s nice.” The students began to have a
change about them and learned to work well together.
In the years to come Sister Mary Kathleen had forgot-
ten about her little experiment. About 20 years later it was
toward the end of the Vietnam War. That morning, as Sis-
ter was reading the morning paper, she looked at the obitu-
ary page. She read the name of a 30 year old Marine lieu-
tenant who had been killed in action. She recognized the
name as one of her students. That night she went to the
funeral home to pay her respects and to offer some prayers.
The parents approached the nun and asked her if she had
taught Grade 5 at St. John’s parish school about 30 years
prior. She told them she had. The parents said: “Sister, we
need to show you something. This is our son’s wallet. In-
16
side, under all his identification, is this yellow aged and
folded sheet of paper. It states his name at top and then
gives a list of all his good points.” Sister was amazed as she
put her hand to her mouth. The parents continued, “Our
son never forgot this paper. He took it out whenever he
was feeling bad. And during his days of fighting he took it
out and read it many times.”
A young woman had overheard and approached the
three of them. Excuse me, Sister Mary Kathleen, but I keep
mine in my purse at all times. Here it is. It reminds me to
always have a nice word to say about others. A distinguished
young man then came up and took his list out of his wallet.
He said that through his divorce and the loss of his business,
this list was the only thing that had kept him from commit-
ting suicide. Soon about 20 to 25 classmates of the Marine
produced their list, each with a story to tell.
I recall the time when I was taking my education
courses at Fordham University in order to become a
teacher. One of the professors told us that whenever stu-
dents are answering a question, always look for something
positive about their answer. So, a teacher may say: “You’re
touching on it but that is not quite the full answer. But what
you said is good.” This will never leave them with a sense of
failure which “No, you’re wrong,” does. Encouragement is
the key that opens the door for one to reach their fullest
potential. There was a teacher who was part of the crew of
astronauts in the 1980’s for the spaceship Challenger which
exploded a few minutes after lift-off. She had been quoted
as saying: “I touch the future. I am a teacher.”
As human beings and as Christians we have times of
questioning and doubts, especially of our own capabilities.
Those are the times when we need the most encouragement
from others. When things seem to be the darkest that is
when we need to be encouraged. With encouragement to
persevere the snail was able to reach Noah’s Ark as well. It
is that encouragement that nurtures us into becoming the
blossom that God created us to become. We must remem-
ber that encouragement brings about perseverance. Perse-
verance develops into the virtue of patience which St. Fran-
cis de Sales says is the one which most assures us of perfec-
tion. For as St. Anthony Mary Zaccaria says: “Patience will
produce an abundance of fruits of charity.” But all this is
part of our nurturing process to become that which God
wants us to be.
Nurturing is important for all types of growth. Vegeta-
tion, Children, Bishops, Laity, Christians. Our nurturing
never comes to a completion. The most important element
though is that we have good nurturers. “For a bad tree can-
not bear good fruit.” (Mt 7:18) Let us be mindful of this in
all that we meet and in all in our charge. Remember, a nur-
turing word can produce deeper roots more than any aca-
demic lesson.
 No. 2 iPaul
Paschal Meditation 1
Kenosis: A Lenten Message of Dying to Self
by Jonathan G. Ramoso, CRSP
Our modern society is characterized by a decline of
values and instability of community building. Selfish-
ness, social conflicts, drug addiction and alcoholic de-
pendence among the youth, misunderstanding among
family members due to overwhelming pride, hatred
and jealousy are the marks of the 21st century human
society. What is essential and valuable is what one gets
on his own. Instead of doing things for the good of the
community, people do the opposite, that is, thinking
for one’s own benefits. As a result, conflicts and dis-
putes prevail in the family and in the society as a
whole. In his letter St. James says, “Where jealousy and
selfish ambition exist, there are disorder and every foul prac-
tice.” (3:16) As a result, a peaceful community is never
realized. This is the reality of our present society and
sadly, this is also the situation of many religious com-
munities. How can a person restore his true identity as
a creature made according to God’s own image and
likeness? What is kenosis and how can it help a person
search for its real self?
The core message is SELF-EMPTYING—Kenosis. I
remember my college thesis on Simone Weil who
coined the term “self-decreation” which has the same
meaning as kenosis. A Christian philosopher, she ar-
gues that in order to be in communion with God, one
has to destroy the self; one has to purify the self which
is inclined to sin and therefore to detach from the
worldly anxieties and comforts. Is it easy? A person
therefore who undergoes kenosis abandons the self for
Christ’s sake and neighbor. Every single day poses a
challenge to place oneself subordinate to Christ, in-
deed, a total abandonment of one’s will and intellect.
When we discard our self-possessed gods, God comes
in. Courage and great love are needed to do that! St.
Anthony Mary urges us in his Sermon IV, “… the hate
of possessions, of money, of what can be seen, indeed the hate
of yourself. See what great love is required from us, a love
which could be nothing else but the love of God… And how
happy the good ones will be, as they find themselves detach
from everything. Having lost the self, they have everything in
God and others.”
It is disheartening to see how money has become
the controlling factor and the final denominator in our
world today. It is hard to talk about the BREAD OF
LIFE in a world that only seeks for material bread. A
17
funny story was told by Fr. Jerry Orbos, SVD, “It is like
a story of a 2-year old boy who swallowed a one-peso
coin. The mother turned him upside down and sharply
hit his back, and the child coughed up two 10-peso
coins! What did she do next? She fed him more one-
peso coins so that more 10-peso coins would come out!”
Kenosis is to empty the self, to let go and let God
hold you and make you his possession. In essence, it
means to be possessed by God and letting go of things
that hinder one to have God as one’s desired posses-
sion. One of my experiences illustrates this. Beside our
house, there was a mango tree. Attracted by the savory
appearance of its fruits, I climbed to get some and so
to enjoy it myself and shared it with others. I got a
bunch of it, but suddenly my left foot slipped off from
one of the trunks. I was in danger of falling down and
my only choice was to throw away the fruits so that I
could hold on to another trunk. I threw the mangoes
and clutched tightly at another trunk and so I saved
myself.
In other words, there are times when we really
need to let go of our own selfish desires so that the
love and grace of God may enter into our hearts. The
Lord challenges us to let go of our “precious little
world” in order that we can hold on to the only
branch of Life—JESUS CHRIST.
Deep within us we often fear our “shadows”—the
shadows of our tepidity, self-righteousness and many
other self-constructed false images of ourselves. The
Lenten journey is a reminder of one’s own search for
the real self. This too, is kenosis. In dying to self, we
identify ourselves to Christ and so we become aware of
who we are in God. We have to face the shadows of
our falsehood to be able to live freely with others and
in peace with ourselves and with God. Of course, these
can only be done with divine help and the grace of
Jesus.
May our observance of Lent resound the radiance
of God’s goodness and love towards the glory of Easter
with Jesus Christ resurrected. He is the only one who
gives us hope and meaning in life. May we observe this
season not with feeding up our mouths with more
coins, not clinging and holding fast to our small gods
but with the authentic dying to self. HAPPY EASTER
TO ALL!
 No. 2 iPaul 18
Paschal Meditation 2
gazing AT THE CROSS
by Arvin A. Dagalea, CRSP

Every year we remind ourselves of the and hearts that there is this Jesus who emptied
great deeds that Jesus has done for us. Doing Himself for our very own salvation. Let us gaze
the Stations of the Cross, for instance, is a way at the wooden cross with a change of heart.
to reminisce the saving acts of Jesus. But have If we want to follow Jesus in the way of per-
we ever tried to gaze at the cross meditatively fection, then we need to carry our own crosses
and see the message behind it: why Jesus, the in our own little way. We must always remem-
Son of God, was crucified? I guess every Chris- ber that this is the only way that leads to life.
tian knows why the only begotten Son of the And when at times the road becomes rough
Father is there hanging on the cross. The fact and the challenges are too hard to bear, set
is that through the cross he redeemed us from your gaze at that cross. Moreover, if we only
the slavery of sins and brought us back to the place Jesus at the center of our being, surely no
Father. Once we were lost and walked in the matter how strong the storm tosses our life we
darkness that kept us blind to the truth and to shall be able to keep our ships sailing, confi-
the reality of God’s love. dent on God’s unfailing providence.
Gazing at the cross makes me ponder of We must not forget that the cross is the
how great is the Love of the Father for human- source of our strength. Being a Christian, this
ity that He even sent His Son to die on that is the only major source of our sustenance
wooden tree. And because of this Love, the his- when we rise and fall, of our joys and tears, of
tory of humanity has changed. The bruised, happiness and sadness, and most of all, in our
bloodied body of that person hanging on the losses and victories
cross, who gave his very own life for us, has
restored us to life.
For many, the cross symbolizes shame, suf-
fering, and victory. Sometimes we complain of
our experiences of shame and sufferings. But
we have to bear in mind that we become au-
thentic human beings through suffering. We
are purified by experiencing sufferings. It is
through suffering that we learn. Suffering
would not be painful if we accept it willingly,
uniting it with the suffering of our Lord Jesus.
This season of Lent invites to gaze at the cross
to reflect on its real message that led humanity
to see the light.
But we are not just invited to do so in this
season of Lent. We are invited everyday to
meditate on God’s love realized on the cross, to
live it especially during moments of struggles
for a better life, that is, a life centered on
Christ.
I am inviting you to fix your gaze intently
to that person hanging on the cross, that per-
son is the only Son of the Father, who is very
willing to die for us again and again just to
lead us back on the right path toward the Fa-
ther. We must not only gaze at that wooden
cross but rather we must seal it into our minds
 No. 2 iPaul 19
Paschal Meditation 3
EASTER AND “PADER” OF CHRIST
by Ferdinand S. Dagcota, CRSP

“Pader” is the Filipino word for the English

“wall”. We build walls as a means of protection
and security. But it can also be an obstacle, a hin-
drance to reach others which separates oneself
and living alone in one’s own world where
neighbors do not exist. Walls divide people; it
widen the gap between the rich and the poor, the
influential and the helpless, the powerful and the
weak. Therefore, a wall can be an instrument of
security and protection but, when used in a self-
ish way, it can cause disunity and alienation.
Our Christian life has also a “PADER”—
Passion, Death and Resurrection, a “wall” which
is not an obstacle but a means to reach God and
neighbor. It unites us with each other and with
God. “PADER” is a human experience that
strengthens and gives us hope, a hope that
brings us to Easter. Human life has a lot of ex-
periences of passions and deaths. And “PADER”
is a story of our life experienced in different but instead it is the surest way for us to become
situations and circumstances. Our life has a lot one with Christ. The only thing that we need is
of “PADER” to experience and through these we to believe and hope in Him and everything will
would be able to identify ourselves with Christ. follow. Those who hope in Christ will never be
Experiencing “PADER” shows our unity with disappointed. “PADER” is inevitable but if we
Christ and thus we also share in His resurrec- have faith and hope, it is not a hindrance to
tion. “PADER” is always there to remind us that reach Easter—our Resurrection after an experi-
life is a process, a continuous growth and strug- ence of passion and death.
gle. Life has no shortcuts, only long roads to Therefore, Easter is a life lived in faith and
trudge and on it we must experience life. It is hope in Christ. We are challenged to live always
here that our faith is needed so that we may be a life of Easter, a life that is united in Christ. A
able to face the “PADER” of life. Faith gives us life of Easter is manifested in our love of
strength to face all the trials in our life. It neighbor. It is a life fully lived, given and loved.
strengthens our hope to continue living in the Christ is our Easter; He is the “wall” that we can
midst of all the struggles in our life. really depend on, a wall that does not divide but
Hope is an action of our faith. Our faith is unite through His resurrection. Through his
useless without hope and vice versa. Hope is an “PADER” and our sharing in faith and hope we
expression of our faith. To accept “PADER” in are given new life, a resurrected life that is so
our life is a concrete manifestation of our faith strong that no hardship can shake. We must re-
and through this faith, hope is born. Hope is the member that difficulties are part of our lives be-
force that pushes us to go on with our struggles. cause they lead us to Easter—the recognition of
It gives us an assurance that everything will be God’s glory amidst human tribulation and the
alright and all our struggles would never be in beginning of new life united with Christ, our tri-
vain. “PADER” is not an obstacle for us to hope umphant Savior. Happy Easter to all!
 No. 2 iPaul 20

Paschal Meditation 4… sa Italyano

Il tempo della grazia The Poets’ Corner
by Joselito A. Santos, CRSP
Lend Me a Hand
“Il tempo della grazia è di nuovo arrivato!”, by Cirilo B. Coniendo, CRSP
diceva il predicatore rivolgendosi a un gruppo che
stava facendo gli esercizi spirituali. Le sue parole
erano cosí convincenti che, subito dopo la My dear Lord,
meditazione, quasi tutti si accostarono al sacramento I meekly come before you,
della riconciliazione. Ma mi sono chiesto se davvero asking for forgiveness.
solo il tempo quaresimale possa essere considerato I turned away from you many times.
I disregarded you and abandoned you.
come il “tempo della grazia”. Credo che tutto l’anno
Yet, you did not turn away from me.
meriti di essere chiamato allo stesso modo. You stayed with me.
Il grande dono di amore da parte di Dio nella Thank you Lord Jesus.
passione, morte e risurrezione del suo Figlio diletto I promise to change my ways.
ha causato la nostra salvezza. Salvezza che genera
gioia non solo in un momento dell’anno, ma in ogni Forgive all my failures and sins.
Forgive my indifference,
giorno dell’esistenza dell’uomo. Cosí dovrebbe essere, my selfishness,
ma non lo è. Il sacrificio del Signore non dice piú and my uncharitable attitude.
molto. Quasi quasi è stato ridotto a una celebrazione Forgive my craving
liturgica, una piccola “sveglia” per la fede, ma poi, for material things
subito dopo, l’uomo continua a voltare le spalle al and my extravagant lifestyle.
Forgive my desire
Signore.
for attention and acclaim.
È stata molto sanguionosa la prima settimana Forgive my insincerities
santa. Questo sacrificio perfetto dell’amore di Dio and unfulfilled vow.
all’uomo creato è unico e irripetibile. Ma Cristo
continua a donare il suo corpo e il suo sangue ogni O dear Lord,
volta che celebriamo l’Eucaristia. E per questo non Lend me a hand,
that my lifestyle may be simple;
solo nel tempo di Quaresima uno deve ricordarsi della Lend me a hand,
passione, morte e risurrezione di Gesú. Cristo si dona that my words may be sincere;
continuamente nell’Eucaristia in ogni giorno della Lend me a hand,
nostra vita. Da parte sua si trattò di un’offerta that my actions may be righteous.
“sanguinosa”. Ma egli vuole che anche noi facciamo la Lend me a hand,
nostra parte. Anche in questo caso dovrebbe esserci that I may do justice to your gifts,
my talents, my achievements
un “versamento di sangue”: una conversione, una and my very life.
purificazione delle nostre relazioni umane, un nuovo
modo di vedere le cose, un cambiamento duraturo e
autentico. Tutto comincia con un cuore umile e
pentito.
 No. 2 iPaul 21

BE A GOOD PREACHER NEWS, EVENTS, AT IBA PA…

by Yohanes B. Koten, CRSP by Marlon B. Ramirez, Pat M. Golis,
Jonathan G. Ramoso & C.

The preacher is the messenger of God’s love to the peo- Father General’s Visit
ple. He tries to explain the Scripture and its meaning to the
people. He preaches about Jesus Christ. In these situations,
he must be a good preacher not a poor one. And in his Last February 15, the Superior General of the
preaching of the Word of God he must be like a “hunter’s
gun”, that is, he must have the ability to shoot the hearts of
Barnabite Fathers, the Most Reverend Father Gio-
the people through good homilies. vanni Villa came to Saint Paul Scholasticate to take
The preacher must avoid poor preaching. Fr. Lino Nica- part in the Priestly Ordination of deacons Jecker
sio, SVD, our professor in the “Theology and Spirituality of
Preaching” at the Divine Word School of Theology (DWST), Luego and Michael Sandalo. Fr. Villa was accompa-
gives the reasons why there is poor preaching: “The preacher nied by Fr. Mario Gadda, former superior/rector of
lacks a clear understanding of preaching; he fails to under-
stand preaching as communication; he does not prepare his the defunct Seminario Teologico Internazionale in
homilies well; and he does not evaluate his homilies.” In this Rome, Italy, and for some years formator of the or-
regard, Vatican II stresses the importance of preaching: “The
ministry of preaching is to be fulfilled with exactitude and dinandi. It was also his first time to visit the Philip-
fidelity. The sermon, moreover, should draw its content pines. One of the purposes of Father General’s visit
mainly from scriptural and liturgical sources. Its character
should be that of a proclamation of God’s wonderful works was to meet the members of the Philippine Delega-
in the history of salvation, that is, the mystery of Christ, tion of the Order. It was also his first time to visit
which is ever made present and active within us, especially
in the celebration of the liturgy.” (Sacrosanctum Concilium, the Scholasticate since its transfer to its new place.
#35). It was a great opportunity for him to meet and
Hence, the preacher must do his best in order to under-
stand that preaching is first and foremost God’s work en- know the Filipino professed students of the Scholas-
trusted to and accomplished by man. In this case, the ticate community.
preacher must always bear in mind that when he preaches,
he owes it to God, to His Word, and to His people. So an un- A general assembly of the Philippine Delegation
prepared homily is a disaster, but a well-prepared one is a was also held on February 19 at Saint Anthony Ma.
blessing.
Fr. Lino explains further, “the preacher tries to bring Zaccaria Seminary in Marikina City. Together with
about a personal encounter between God and the souls of his Fr. Villa, the fifteen solemn professed and priests of
hearers. He seeks to lead every man to a place where he must
meet God face to face and can find no way of evasion, no the Delegation discussed some plans and strategies
escape from the impact of God upon his mind and heart and to become a pro-province.
conscience ... the true preacher seeks to do one thing, and
one thing only—to put himself in the hands of God that God Fr. Villa and Fr. Gadda left for Rome in the
may bring about the personal encounter through him.” Fur- morning of February 21 concluding their week-long
thermore, the preacher must hear the cry of the people who
ask for a good homily, a better homily that makes them re- visit in the Philippines.
member and reflect upon and with the grace of God may act
upon.
Fr. Lino continues, “the preacher can improve his
preaching and thus become a more effective and a more
powerful preacher. In truth, the preacher has no choice: he
has to be a forceful, convincing preacher. For ministers of
the Word, good preaching is not optional; it is obligatory ...
We must consider practical ways and means to prepare effec-
tive homilies. We must see the need to understand preaching
as communication. Understanding preaching as such helps
the preacher prepare homilies with care, keeping in mind
that the homily is primarily for his listeners, and that
preaching is his service to the people of God. Moreover, we
must also consider the need to evaluate our homilies con-
stantly, both content-wise and delivery-wise, so as to present
homilies that sparkle, inspire, convince, and thus help the
audience. Effective preaching, we concluded, happens when
the preacher, by the grace of God and his own efforts, be-
comes alive, dynamic, and enthusiastic about Jesus Christ,
the Divine Word. The world needs mighty preachers. Go, and
with God’s blessing, be one!”
Father General with Father Papa and our Rector
 No. 2 iPaul 22

25th Anniversary of Bishop Tagle’s lantly said, “Amidst the experiences of trepidation,
Presbyteral Ordination God turns them into experiences of fascination!”
After the Mass, a simple but well-prepared
Last February 27, 2007 the religious community snack was served. The “clergy orchestra” of the
of Saint Paul Scholasticate took part in the 25th an- Diocese performed a variety of religious songs in
niversary of the presbyteral ordination of the Bishop Filipino, which added more joy throughout the oc-
of Imus, His Excellency Most Reverend Luis Antonio casion.
G. Tagle, D.D. A concelebrated Mass presided by From the religious community of Saint Paul
Bishop Tagle was held at the Imus Cathedral. The Scholasticate: Ad multos annos, Bishop Chito!
bishops from the neighboring dioceses also concele-
brated: Bishop Deogracias Iñiquez (Caloocan),
Bishop Antonio Tobias (Novaliches), Bishop
Teodoro Bacani, Jr. (Emeritus of Novaliches),
Archbishop Ramon Arguelles (Lipa), Bishop Fran-
cisco San Diego (Pasig), Bishop Manuel Sobreviñas
(Emeritus of Imus), and Manila Archbishop, His
Eminence Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales. Priests from
various religious congregations and the clergy of the
Diocese likewise concelebrated including our very
own Frs. Giovanni Scalese, Joselito Santos, Jecker
Luego and Michael Sandalo. The cathedral was
packed with the religious and the faithful of the
Diocese of Imus. Also present were the parents of
Bishop Tagle, his relatives and friends, former Phil-
ippine president Corazon Aquino, Senator Richard
Gordon and many other political and religious per-
sonalities who all joined Bishop Tagle in thanking
the Lord for the gift of the priesthood. The Eucha-
ristic celebration started at half past two in the af- Bangalore, in the Indian State of Karnataka
ternoon. Cardinal Rosales delivered an inspiring
homily.
Part also of the celebration were the diocesan Fr. Papa’s next mission: India
day for consecrated life, the death anniversary of
the second Bishop of Imus, the late Bishop Felix Fr. Frank Papa, CRSP, the delegate superior of
Perez and the launching of the Parish Pastoral the Philippine Delegation, spent a week in Banga-
Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV), a parish- lore, India from February 25 to March 4 to see the
based movement organized by the Catholic Bishops possibility of extending the roots of the Congrega-
Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) which aims tion in the aforementioned South Asian nation. He
to safeguard and secure an honest and peaceful na- was welcomed and given accommodation by the
tional elections on May 14, 2007. Daughters of Divine Providence (whose founder is
Before the Mass ended, Bishop Tagle shared to the Barnabite Fr. Tommaso Manini). He stayed at
the faithful his vocation-experience starting from his the sisters’ convent throughout his week-long
seminary entrance examination up to his episcopal “exploratory” visit.
consecration. He jokingly uttered, “God is a great On February 26, Fr. Frank visited the houses and
joker”. At the end of his vocation story, he jubi- the communities of the religious congregations al-
(Continued on page 23)
 No. 2 iPaul 23
ready present in the area. The next day he met the
Archbishop of Bangalore, the Most Reverend Ber-
nard Moras. Fr. Frank presented to the bishop the
official request of the Barnabites to be accepted in
the Archdiocese of Bangalore. Bishop Moras gladly
and willingly accepted the petition and explained
the archdiocesan policies for religious orders present
in his jurisdiction. A condition was also set: the
establishment of a religious house outside the met-
ropolitan area because there are already sixty-four
male and one hundred and twenty-five female reli-
gious congregations concentrated in the densely
populated city. A religious house in the metropoli-
tan area could be opened only on condition that
Novelties in our chapels
an apostolic activity is present in another zone of
the archdiocese. Bishop Moras also gave a list of Our Sagrado Corazon Chapel has been recently
areas which need evangelization. After the meeting, enriched with a new altar, which substitutes the
Fr. Frank and Archbishop Moras had their lunch in previous one, a little roughly done. The new
another convent of the Daughters of Divine Provi- wooden altar, made by our carpenter kuya Rey, dis-
dence. plays on the front as antependium (= frontal) a col-
Fr. Frank went to Hoskote district to inquire ourful high-relief representing the Last Supper,
about the possibility of purchasing a tract of land manufactured by the carpentry of the Focolare
where the future seminary could be built. The place movement.
is approximately twelve kilometers away from the Kuya Rey has also prepared the new showcase
Kristu Jyoti College, Institute of Philosophy and for the statue of Our Lady of Fatima in her open-air
Theology of the Salesian Fathers. There is also a shrine. It was necessary because up to now the sa-
possibility of renting a house within the campus of cred image stood on a small pillar, exposed to the
the aforesaid school. The house can accommodate elements.
ten students. Thus, it could become the first step Finally our chapel has two new “residents”: a
for the establishment of a new seminary and reli- wooden statue of Santo Niño (according to the pat-
gious community. Now, three to seven applicants tern of the Infant Jesus of Prague), whose devotion
are expected to join the Order, hence, the pioneer is widespread in the Philippines, and a fiber-glass
aspirants/seminarians of the new Barnabite mission. San Jose Obrero, patron saint of our barangay. They
Fr. Frank was asked regarding the person designated will soon move to Fatima Shrine, so that… the
to start the mission. He answered, “Myself”. After whole Holy Family may be reunited!
working in the Philippines for eighteen years and
cultivating the seed of the Order of the Clerics
Regular of St. Paul in the Philippine Archipelago, Fr.
Frank Papa is off for another mission. He is sched-
uled to leave for India in May. Fr. Frank, you may
rest assured of our prayers for you and God bless
you!

Above: the new altar

Below: Santo Niño and San Jose Obrero
On next page: the new showcase for O. L. of Fatima
 No. 2 iPaul
Community Outing in Puerto Galera
Last December 28-29, 2006, the Saint Paul
Scholasticate community set out for the much-
awaited community outing, this time, at the white
sand and blue waters of Puerto Galera in Mindoro
Oriental, southwest of Manila.
With much excitement, the scholastics hit the
road at exactly five o’clock in the morning of De-
cember 28 on the way to the Batangas Port. Frs.
Joselito and Cirilo also joined while Fr. Giovanni
stayed home due to a scheduled recollection. Arriv-
ing at the port, they boarded a ship bound to Min-
doro Island. The ship arrived at Puerto Galera Island
after 1½ hour of sailing on the waters of Batangas
Strait. The scholastics stayed in a rented three-room
house. It was an occasion for them to unwind and
to have a break from school and seminary activities.
But most of all, it was another opportunity for them
to strengthen camaraderie and community life. They
arrived back home in the evening of December 29,
relaxed and thankful to God for a pleasurable and
safe community outing.
24
“Salamat sa Diyos!”…
Thanksgiving Mass of Fr. Mike
The Saint Paul Scholasticate community at-
tended the thanksgiving Mass of the newly or-
dained priest Fr. Michael Ma. Sandalo, CRSP last
February 24 at the Diocesan Shrine-Parish of Nues-
tra Señora de Aranzazu in San Mateo, Rizal, East of
Manila. The event also coincided with the birthday
of Fr. Mike’s elder sister. The Holy Mass started at 6
o’clock in the evening, presided by Fr. Mike together
with his ten fellow Barnabite priests including his
fellow newly ordained Fr. Jecker Luego. The novices
of St. Alexander Sauli Novitiate, the members of St.
Anthony Ma. Zaccaria Seminary Choir, the Angelic
Sisters of St. Paul, the Little Workers of the Sacred
Heart and some members of the Laity of St. Paul
were all present. The church was filled with parish-
ioners, relatives and friends of Fr. Mike, who all
joined him in joyful thanksgiving for the grace of
priesthood. Fr. Jimmy Anastacio, another Barnabite
from the same parish, delivered a touching homily
which dealt with the true identity of the priest-
religious: poor, chaste and obedient. Fr. Mike
thanked all those who accompanied him through-
out his seminary formation and, of course, those
who contributed in making his thanksgiving Mass a
meaningful and special event. The Mass was cele-
brated with a joyful ambience. After the Mass, the
traditional kissing of the hands of the new priest
was done.
Following after the Mass was a well-prepared
supper at the third floor of the Nuestra Señora de
Aranzazu Parochial School (whose Fr. Mike is an
alumnus), located next to the church building. The
parish youth ministry and the altar boys organized a
short program. People who know Fr. Mike gave their
heart-warming messages. A power-point presenta-
tion about Fr. Mike’s childhood years up to his
priestly ordination was also shown. The program
ended at exactly 9 o’clock in the evening.
It was indeed a very memorable day for Fr.
Mike, for his family and for the whole parish com-
munity. Fr. Mike is scheduled to participate at the
thanksgiving Mass of Fr. Jecker on April 15 at St.
Isidore Parish, St. Bernard, Southern Leyte.
 No. 2
LETTERS
Complimenti per l’ottimo inizio del nuovo informativo
iPaul. Tanti auguri per il nuovo anno e buon lavoro a
tutta la comunità. Un ricordo nella preghiera.
Rt. Rev. Fr. Giovanni Villa, Superior General
Roma, Italy
padregenerale@barnabiti.it
Complimenti vivissimi per questo notiziario dello
Studentato S. Paolo di Tagaytay. La pulizia grafica è
stupefacente: la scelta dei caratteri, la distribuzione dei
vuoti e dei pieni, i piccoli boxes, tutto appaga il senso
estetico e facilita la lettura.
Fr. Giuseppe Cagnetta, General Treasurer
Roma, Italy
cagnetta@barnabiti.it
Congratulations on your latest “creation,” iPaul. I like
it very much and I took the liberty to post it on the
internet at our website. If you object to my action,
please, let me know and I’ll send iPaul to the Recycle
Bin. I don’t think Paul would like to be... dumped. A
Happy and Spiritually Rich New Year.
Fr. Gabe Patil, Provincial Superior
North American Province
Lewiston, NY, USA
gpatil@fast.net
Che piacere ricevere la Vostra nuova rivista! E che
piacere leggerla, non senza qualche difficoltà anche per
noi, vecchi italiani monoglotti! iPaul? Anche in italiano
si possono tentare tante interpretazioni: incontro,
insieme, invece... Grazie di avermi ricordato e, in
attesa del nuovo numero, buon anno, buon lavoro e
una preghiera con il cuore.
Mr. Stefano Silvagni, Chairman
Laity of St. Paul
Bologna, Italy
silvagni@tecnicoop.it
Rallegramenti per iPaul! Teniamoci vicini anche se
lontani.
Fr. Antonio Gentili
Eupilio, Como, Italy
info@barnabitieupilio.it
iPaul 25
Complimenti per il nuovo giornalino. Auguri e buon
lavoro! Fraternamente in Cristo, un saluto da Varsavia
a tutti Voi.
Fr. Bogdan Horondeński
Warszawa, Poland
obogdan@acn.waw.pl
Thank you very much, dear brothers. Merry Christmas
and happy new year to you. I wish all the best you
need for your holiness in this year 2007.
Fr. Toussaint Bulambo
Birava, Kivu, Dem. Rep. of Congo
barcks2001@yahoo.fr
Complimenti ragazzi!!! Ci metterò un po’ a leggere
tutto questo inglese ma ad un primo sguardo sembra
bello e interessante. Complimenti! Best compliments!
Have a nice new year!
Rev. Giovanni Giovenzana
Voghera, Pavia, Italy
giovengio@gmail.com
P. Scalese and young confreres, we wish you a Happy
New Year and congratulations for the newsletter iPaul.
Fr. Luiz Antônio Pereira and Novices
Samambaia, Brasília, Brazil
novizacc@uol.com.br
Thank you very much for your nice and beautiful iPaul.
Great idea! Congratulations to all. I hope everything is
good for all of you and for your apostolate. I keep all
of you in my prayers and I ask to each of you to do the
same for me, please. Take care and God Bless you real
Good!
Fr. Mario Zaninelli
Napoli, Italy
padremario@tin.it
Our newsletter has been reviewed also in the last
issue of Eco dei Barnabiti (no. 1/2007, pp.60-61).
It can also be read and downloaded in the site of
the North American Barnabites, at this address:
www.catholic-church.org/barnabites. But the
best gift has been...
 No. 2
They entrust themselves to our prayers
Mrs. ALMA ROA from Tagaytay for her brother-in-
law Pete and sister-in-law Brot.
Mr. DOMENICO SAVINO from Reggio Emilia, Italy
for a sick friend and for his parish of St. Joseph.
Mr. MAURO DAL RI from Italy for his personal
intentions.
Friends of Saint Paul Scholasticate
Since its foundation (June 2003) Saint Paul
Scholasticate has been helped by:
The GENERAL ADMINISTRATION, the FRANCO-
BELGIAN PROVINCE and the NORTH AMERICAN
PROVINCE of the Clerics Regular of Saint Paul.
The Most Rev. ANDREA MARIA ERBA, CRSP, Bishop
Emeritus of Velletri-Segni.
iPaul 26
Mother CARMEN PERRI, FDP, Superior General of
the Daughters of Divine Providence.
Mother MARIA GRAZIA FUSAR BASSINI, ASP, former
Superior General of the Angelic Sisters of St. Paul.
Father KAZIMIERZ LOREK, CRSP, Delegate General
for Poland.
The BARNABITE COMMUNITY in Monza, Italy.
The BARNABITE COMMUNITY of St. Anthony Ma.
Zaccaria International Theological Seminary in
Rome.
The Right Rev. Father GIOVANNI VILLA, CRSP,
Superior General.
The relatives of Father GIUSEPPE RANALDI, CRSP,
General Chancellor.
Mr. ORLANDO ASO from Haboken, New Jersey,
USA.
Mr. EMANUELE SALA from Italy.
The KOCH FOUNDATION, Inc. of Gainesville,
Florida, USA
Mr. & Mrs. JAN and TERESA KOSEK from Warsaw,
Poland.
Mr. & Mrs. MARCIN and RENATA BARDECKI from
Warsaw, Poland.
Mr. & Mrs. TOMMASO and MARIA PAOLA GIORGI
from Milan, Italy.
Mr. FERNARDO and Mrs. MARIA, who, through Fr.
Giulio F. Mariani, Secretary General of PIME,
offered a scholarship for one of the students.
For the Our Lady of Fatima Shrine to be
build:
Father LOUIS SOLCIA, CRSP from San Diego,
California, USA
Relatives and friends of Father GIUSEPPE RANALDI,
CRSP, General Chancellor.
TO ALL OF THEM OUR PROFOUND
GRATITUDE AND THE ASSURANCE OF OUR
REMEMBRANCE IN PRAYER.
 No. 2 iPaul 27

Zaccarian Meditation
God and Love
as the Intentions
of One’s Actions
by Marlon B. Ramirez, CRSP
iPaul
Saint Paul Scholasticate Newsletter
I think every Barnabite should bear in mind and
heart this teaching of St. Anthony Mary Zaccaria: “It THE CLERICS REGULAR OF SAINT PAUL
should not be difficult for you to understand that the true — BARNABITES —
life consists in this: one’s intention should constantly be Saint Paul Scholasticate
kept directed towards God. As a matter of fact one should Purok 163, San Jose
begin every action of his in the name of the Lord and di- Tagaytay City, Cavite, the Philippines
rect it to him” (Sermon II, 83). Throughout his life, St.
Anthony dedicated himself assisting the sick people Mailing Address: P. O. Box 32,
in his city of Cremona, Italy. When he became a 4120 Tagaytay City, Philippines
priest, he fed the people with the Bread of life for Tel. & Fax: +63 46 413-2837
their body and soul. A doctor of medicine and a Email: stpaul@catholic.org
priest, he realized that many people need a “doctor”
of the heart to teach them how to love God and to Director: Fr. Giovanni Scalese, CRSP
become God’s follower. Truly, St. Anthony’s inten- Editor: Fr. Michael R. Sandalo, CRSP
tion was always directed towards God—to serve and Editorial Staff: Fr. Joselito A. Santos, Fr.
love God among the poor ones. Cirilo B. Coniendo, Fr. Jecker R. Luego,
I had an experience last summer while dining in Ferdinand S. Dagcota, Roan Cipriano J.
a restaurant in my province. A beggar suddenly Aborque, Jose Nazareno S. Gabato, Arvin
came in and begged for food. Unfortunately, he was A. Dagalea, Marlon B. Ramirez, Yohanes
scolded by the owner of that restaurant and was sent Besi Koten, Clyd S. Autentico, Pat M.
away empty-handed. Perhaps, if the beggar insisted, Golis, Jonathan G. Ramoso, Thomas
the owner might have given him food but not out of Federick S. Tabada, Isfridus Syukur.
charity but because the latter did not want this beg-
gar to disturb the costumers. I wanted to give the Typeset in the Philippines by Saint Paul
beggar some food because I felt “something” push- Scholasticate, March 2007
ing me to do so. However, I failed to put it into ac-
tion.
St. Anthony says in one of his letters: “The con-
cept of love he has written in our hearts must transform it
into practice together with the book of the sweet memory
of the cross of Christ” (Letter IX, 57). This statement
invites us to put love into action. We, religious and
seminarians, are exhorted by St. Anthony Zaccaria
to act in loving service. Praying in the chapel is not
enough if we do not reflect the image of Jesus in our
interactions with people. I, for my part, after my ex-
perience in the restaurant realized that I still need to
grow, to be challenged to live to the fullest the
Christian faith through charity and compassion. Let Quis nos separabit a caritate Christi?
God and love be at the center of our intentions and An gladius?
actions.