Inspiring You to Live a Fantastic Life

No. 329 Vol. 28 NOVEMBER 2017

Specify What You Want

Create Your Money Machines

How to Become an Investor and Entrepreneur while Being an Employee

God Is Committed to Bless You at the Kerygma Conference 2017 INVEST ON THE FUTURE THAT YOU

KERYGMA BARCODE.pdf 11/16/06 5:43:58 PM WANT

Philippines P100 US $8.14 rex mendoza AUS $8.14 Euro 5.07 A renowned leadership and business UK 4.49 CDN $7.95 speaker opens up on how he achieved SING $9.42 HK $51.83 RUPIAH 103,000 a truly rich and meaningful life.

Don’t Quit for the Wrong Reasons!

Are you sick and tired of your job? Do you want to quit and do something else? Is your boss giving you an unreasonable amount of stress? Is there too much gossip, politics, and negativity in your workplace? Do you feel unappreciated, overworked, and underpaid? Don’t quit just yet!

This book will help you pause and assess if quitting your job now is your best option. Based on her own employee-to-entrepreneur shift, Sha Nacino gives you tips on how to: • Love your job even if you hate it • Discover and develop your unique core competency • Make money without quitting your job yet • Plan if you’ve already decided to quit, and many more.

www.kerygmabooks.com

IS IT TIME… Ad.indd 1 8/31/17 2:12 PM Don’t Quit for the Wrong Reasons! YUNG TOTOO? PANGIT BA AKO? Have you ever asked this question before? Sabay follow up ng, “Kung ‘di Are you sick and tired of your job? Do you want to quit and do something else? Is ako pangit, eh bakit single pa rin ako?” This may be the biggest question that your boss giving you an unreasonable amount of stress? Is there too much gossip, many singles, who have not yet found their partner in life, are asking. politics, and negativity in your workplace? Do you feel unappreciated, overworked, If this question is answered incorrectly, it will lead to discontent, impatience, and underpaid? Don’t quit just yet! and misery. Kaya imbes na mag-enjoy ka sa pagiging single mo, tinatrato mo

ito bilang sumpa na kailangan mo nang malampasan o takasan. This book will help you pause and assess if quitting your job now is your best option. Based on her own employee-to-entrepreneur shift, Sha Nacino gives you tips on how to: • Love your job even if you hate it SO BAKIT SINGLE KA PA RIN? • Discover and develop your unique core competency Kasi marami kang kalokohang pinaniniwalaan tungkol sa pag-ibig. • Make money without quitting your job yet This book will reveal these relationship myths and other crazy things you • Plan if you’ve already decided to quit, and many more. believed about love while growing up. Let this book guide you not only in finding your one true love, but also in living your single life to the fullest.

www.kerygmabooks.com www.kerygmabooks.com

IS IT TIME… Ad.indd 1 8/31/17 2:12 PM BSKPR Ad.indd 1 8/31/17 4:38 PM The Boss

Specify What You Want

love talking to kids. Then that simply means you’re hanging out with Especially tiny ones. the wrong crowd. When I ask kids aged three, four, Here’s my message: Don’t settle! or five, “What do you want to be when Because you get what you settle for. you grow up?” the most common Hey, I found that this works with money as well. answer I get is, “I don’t know.” Which Here’s my belief: God has programmed His entire is understandable. They’re still creation to give us what we clearly and specifically figuring out what they want in life. (But I keep ask for. askingI this question anyway to help them start So if you ask, “Give me money,” God’s creation envisioning their future.) will be asking, “How much?” But when I ask adults in their 30s, 40s, and 50s The universe could deliver to you 25 centavos or what they want in life, the most common answer I P25 million. Both are money. So be specific. get is still, “I don’t know.” Each year, I write down a financial goal. In fact, I Half of their life is over and they still don’t know how much I’ll be earning every single year for know what they want. the next 20 years. I pray for it every day. Here’s the problem: If you want nothing, you From my experience, God’s universe responds get nothing. to someone who passionately knows what he wants Oftentimes, when I ask single women what and wants it with specificity. Don’t ask in ignorance. they want, the answer is, “To get married!” I’ve Ask with knowledge. met many single women whose simple prayer is, Know what you want. “Lord, give me a husband.” Define it. So I ask them, “Any husband? Isn’t that too Be specific. general?” And with a laugh, they answer, “Yes, Bo. And don’t settle. I’m desperate. Any husband will do.” Many people ask for nothing. And that’s what they get: Any husband. And consequently, they end up getting it. Which is pretty dangerous if you ask me. One of the craziest e-mails I’ve ever received was from a single woman who wrote, “Brother Bo, May your dreams come true, I caught my boyfriend cheating on me twice with another girl. What should I do? Should I break up with him? But the thing is, he’s really a good person.” I wrote back, “But he was unfaithful to you twice!” In another e-mail, a single woman asked me, “Brother Bo, my boyfriend is a drunkard. When he gets drunk, he gets violent and beats me up. What should I do? Because when he’s not drunk, he’s a really good person.” For some people, “good” means someone who doesn’t kill you with a butcher knife. When you pray for a spouse, don’t just ask for a “good” husband or a “good” wife. Because “good” can mean so many things. Be specific! Say, “I want a husband who is faithful. A husband who is responsible. A husband who is financially stable. A husband who is free from addictions and alcoholism…” I can hear you now: “But Bo, you’ve just

Bo's outfit courtesy of Elite Garments/SOLO of Elite courtesy outfit Bo's scratched off 99 percent of the men I know!”

Kerygma November 2017 1 mailroom

Bo Sanchez’s “The Boss” September 2017 article ("Love Such dynamic process may Is Your Identity") was an interesting, enlightening, and really pave the way to face life's inspiring piece to read and ponder. challenges with solid emotional He rightly makes a clear distinction between spiritual and spiritual resilience that one maturity and religious maturity. Both are not one and needs regardless of his religious the same. The former is all about “loving like Jesus” (cf. affiliation and life orientation to be Matthew 25)—feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, truly a productive human in this clothe the naked, give shelter to the homeless, visit the digital age, where real and potential sick and those in prison. The latter is about performing digital dangers can cause serious religious rituals, which are often visible and expressed in distractions to the spiritual and many activities. religious habits of a person, unless Oftentimes, one may be preoccupied with religious one takes sufficient care to keep the maturity doing a series of so-called "religious activities" subtle or real distractions (of any which are not wrong in themselves. Of course, they are sort, which are aplenty in the world needed, and he or she might not pay much attention or today) at bay. forget the quintessence in the process, that is, showing, Despite these modern-day experiencing, doing, and living spiritual maturity in real distractions, one has to remain terms and expressions, like love in action, faith in action, anchored on God, for which spiritual or religion in action—living it for others with honesty and maturity can be a springboard for sincerity without any expectation of reward. This is the living an enriching and meaningful call of a Christian regardless of one’s age, gender, social life in society with compassion, position, economic status, educational attainment, and commitment, and competence. cultural context. In my view, spiritual maturity is the core of faith life, Santosh K. Digal from which religious maturity must flow, and in turn, College of Mass Communication it may strengthen, guide, orient, and give direction to University of the Philippines spiritual maturity as a part of consolidating inner spiritual Diliman life in the process. Both are like the two sides of the same coin as long as one is able to lend both in more concrete, positive, constructive, and comprehensive manner.

CONNECT WITH US! E-MAIL: [email protected] OR SEND TO: The Editor, 60 Chicago St., Cubao, Quezon City

Website: www.kerygmabooks.com Landline: 725-9999, 650-9733 Mobile: 0923-378-4941

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FOR SUBSCRIPTION-RELATED CONCERNS: E-mail: [email protected] Mobile: 0922-814-7031 (Sarah Discutido) Landline: 725-9999 locals 101 to 108

2 Kerygma November 2017 Just Breathe Living by Grace

’ve wanted to attend an editing course in Chicago since last year. It’s been on my Novena to God’s Love too. But for some reason, I Iremained iffy despite my daily prayers for its fulfillment and the number of promo fares to the United States that came and went. I tried to pinpoint where my hesitation sprung from and simply concluded that it was because I didn’t know anyone in Chicago. If the course were in San Francisco where I have close friends, or Tampa where Irma’s Lesson my brothers live, I would have gone in a heartbeat. What I learned when my teacher was a hurricane But long story short, I finally bought a ticket online and made the Chicago course an excuse to texted Iza, who immediately surrender. I learned to yield to visit my stateside siblings. replied that they’d take me along God when it came to my carefully It was exhilarating to be a with them. laid-out plans. To trust that He has student again and learn new In Chicago, I also met another my back covered when things go things. But I was more excited couple who were friends of friends. awry. To relinquish control and about finishing the course and Mitch and Charie took me out for enjoy the surprise of not knowing flying to my brothers. dinner downtown, and even if what’s going to happen next. To be Except that Irma got in the I had just met them, I felt like I’d expectant for the coming miracle way. known them forever. We had many when an obstacle stands in the And boy, did she have style common friends, went to the same way. in messing things up. college, and, more importantly, The storms in our lives often I was still on my stopover shared a common faith and love for threaten to sink our faith in God’s By Rissa Singson Kawpeng By Rissa in Incheon, Korea when my the Lord. protection and providence. With brother texted that a hurricane Lors and Iza arrived in Chicago Irma, I learned that even when was going to hit Florida. the day I finished my course. They a category-6 hurricane stands in Weathermen predicted it would picked me up from my hotel and my path, God makes a way that’s be a category 6 (super typhoon took me in. As the hurricane raged more beautiful than what I had Yolanda was a category 5) and in Florida, I was at the mercy of the expected. came at the heels of Harvey, Puno and Balabagno families, who which devastated Houston. My floored me with their hospitality They cried to the Lord in their brother said that much as they and generosity. As if the latter’s 11 distress; from their straits he wanted to see me, it didn’t look siblings were not enough, they rescued them. He hushed the like my trip to Tampa would were quick to label me as an storm to a gentle breeze, and push through. adopted sister and made me the billows of the sea were I panicked. That meant I feel at home. I had uncovered a stilled; they rejoiced that they would be stranded in Chicago mafia of food pushers and this were calmed, and he brought where I’d be alone, racking family was bent on killing me them to their desired haven. up a hefty hotel bill. Then with the best gastronomic (Psalm 107:28-30) my husband texted. Two of delights Chicago had to our friends from Manila, Lors offer. E-mail Rissa at and Iza, were on their way Looking back at my justbreatherissa@gmail. to Chicago too and would be how my trip unfolded, com or follow her on staying at Iza’s brother’s house. the one spiritual lesson Facebook. Visit www. Imagine the odds of that. I I learned from Irma was rissasingsonkawpeng.com for more of Rissa's inspiring articles. Rissa's outfit courtesy of Verses PH Verses of courtesy outfit Rissa's

Kerygma November 2017 3 about the cover model

Rex Mendoza is the president and CEO of Rampver Financials, a dynamic niche player in the financial services industry specializing in investments, and the biggest non-bank distributor of mutual funds in the Philippines. He is a director of several firms including Globe Telecom, Prime Orion Properties, Esquire Financing, the Cullinan Group, TechnoMarine Philippines, Seven Tall Trees Events Company, Mobile Group, and a trustee of the Bataan Peninsula State College. He served as president and CEO of Philam Life, one of the country’s most trusted financial services conglomerates and was chairman of its affiliates and subsidiaries. He previously worked as the senior vice president and chief marketing and sales officer of Ayala Land, and Chairman of Ayala Land International Sales Rex is also a member of Bo Sanchez's Mastermind Group, a group of successful and spiritually-grounded executives, entrepreneurs, and mentors who encourage and guide people to live a significant life. Rex is known as one of the best leadership and business speakers in the country today. But Rex believes that his greatest win is his family. Together with Anna, his wife, he looks forward to seeing their children as successful, generous, and God- loving individuals in the future.

4 Kerygma November 2017 November 2017 The Bo Files 1 tHE BOSS Specify What You Want 48 POINT OF CONTACT

15 fEAST SNAPSHOTS God Is Committed to Bless You 2 Mailroom at the Kerygma Conference 2017 6 DAILY PAUSE 17 It Happened 8 New You Love: A Lasting Light 9 Real Stuff 35 K-techism 10 KFAM INSIDER A Clear but Difficult Choice Departments God Goes Under a Bridge 47 oNE LAST STORY 12 DEAR K Filled, Full, and Overflowing

21 IntroDUCTION 29 Teaching Special Section Invest on the Future that You Want How to Become an Investor 23 Teaching While Being an Employee Create Your Money Machines 33 Man-on-the-street 26 Testimony Worth the Risk Sharing the Oasis

3 Just Breathe Irma's Lessons Columns 38 wEALTH & WISDOM 43 SEASONS Passing on Money Values to Our Sailing through the Waves of Liquidity Children 45 K PREACHER 40 Health & Home Things Will Never Be the Same Again Inspiring the Manifestation of an Empowering Healthcare System

founder and publisher BO SANCHEZ • editor-in-chief RISSA SINGSON KAWPENG • editorial consultant TESS V. ATIENZA • managing editor MAYMAY R. SALVOSA • creative director MIKE CORTES • asst. layout artist LEAH KIM RECTO • graphics director REY DE GUZMAN • staff writers MARJORIE DUTERTE, DINA PECAñA, KRIZELLE TALLADEN • contributing writers REX MENDOZA, SHELLIE ANNE JAVIER-FOLLERO, ECO CASTRO • photographer DANIEL SORIANO • columnists ROSE FRES FAUSTO, DR. ROMY PAREDES, MARTIN FAUSTO, OBET CABRILLAS • production asst. ANGIE ESPUERTA chairman of the board and CEO BO SANCHEZ • president HERMIE R. MORELOS • vice-president for corporate services WENG CEQUEÑA • assistant vice- president for production and digital business operations TESS V. ATIENZA • sales director JOSEPH MARTINEZ • marketing manager KRISTINE MUTUC Kerygma. A Greek word meaning “Proclamation of the Gospel.” It is a Catholic inspirational magazine. It aims to be an evangelistic tool for all nations, providing Scriptural, practical and orthodox teachings to Catholics, particularly those in the Catholic Renewal, as an alternative to present-day magazines. It is also committed to fostering the renewal and unity of the whole Christian people. Philippine copyright Shepherd’s Voice Publications, Inc. 2017. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without permission. Published monthly by Shepherd’s Voice Publications, Inc., whose editorial and business offices are located at 60 Chicago St., Cubao, 1109 Quezon City. Tel.: (632) 725-9999, 650-9733, 725-1190 and 650-9733 (Production Department). Fax: 727-5615. E-mail: [email protected]. Website: www.kerygmabooks.com daily pause with Pope Francis

1 2 3 “Let us pray for the grace to “The logic behind charity “Prayer is powerful. Prayer conquers evil. Prayer brings never grow tired of drawing is to be willing to give up from the well of the Father’s peace.” mercy and bringing it to the everything so that unity world.” and love prevail.”

“Today there is an urgent need for politics and economics 8 9 “There is no room for the “We are living the Gospel when to be centered on the globalization of indifference.” we help the smallest and most 7 service of life.” vulnerable.”

“Let us pray13 for our brothers 14 15 “In a world which has been and sisters who encounter “The poor and weak are the flesh of damaged by the virus of discrimination and pay Christ, who call upon Christians of every indifference, the works of mercy are a personal price for their confession.” the best antidote.” fidelity to the Gospel.”

“My hope is that19 our countries and their 20 “Mary, Queen21 of Peace, help us peoples may find increased opportunities to “As disciples of Christ, to root out hatred and live in work together in building true peace.” how can we not be harmony.” concerned for the good of the weakest?” “I invite you not to build walls but bridges, to conquer evil with good, offense with forgiveness, to live in peace with everyone.” 25 28 “May we make God’s merciful 26 “It is better27 to have a Church love ever more evident in “When the world slumbers in comfort that is wounded but out in the and selfishness, our Christian mission our world through dialogue, is to help it rouse from sleep.” streets than a Church that is sick mutual acceptance, and because it is closed in on itself.” fraternal cooperation.”

6 Kerygma November 2017 “Let’s promote4 friendship and 5 “I love to6 repeat that respect between men and “How beautiful would it be to leave the Christian unity is achieved women of different religious world a better place than the way we by walking together, by traditions in order to build a found it.” encounter, prayer, and world of peace.” preaching the Gospel.”

11 “In a broken10 world, to “In this age lacking in social “Jesus washes12 the feet of the communicate with mercy friendship, our first task is that Apostles. Are we ready to serve means to help create closeness of building community.” others like this?” between the children of God.”

16 17 18 “The throwaway culture is “Economic “Let’s work together to not of Jesus. The other is my development needs increase solidarity and brother, beyond every barrier of to have a human face, sharing. Cooperation helps nationality, social extraction, or so that no one will be to build better and more religion.” excluded.” peaceful societies.”

22 23 24 “Lord, help us always “If every one of us, every day, does a “Serving with love and to be more generous work of mercy, there tenderness those who are and closer to poor in need helps us to grow in will be a revolution humanity.” families.” in the world!”

29 30 “Mercy can truly contribute to the building “Consoling those who suffer we are able to help build a up of a more humane world.” better world.”

Kerygma November 2017 7 new you Tips for Personal Development 5 Natural Home Remedies to Aid Sore Throats A sore throat may signal the start of colds or may be caused by strained vocal cords or a more serious infection. While going to the doctor will probably be best, here are some home remedies you might want to try as first aid. 1. Saltwater. Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and gargle three to four times a day. Salt helps flush out irritants and bacteria from the throat and mouth. 2. Ginger. Peel and slice some fresh ginger. Cover it with wax paper and crush it with a mallet, pestle, or any sturdy kitchen utensil. Boil some water and add the crushed ginger. Let it boil for another five minutes, remove from heat, and add honey. You may strain the ginger before drinking while it’s warm. Ginger helps loosen and expel mucus from the respiratory system, acts as an anti-inflammatory, and fights bacteria. 3. Garlic. Place some sliced garlic in a mug. Fill it with boiling water. Let it sit for a moment, then remove the pieces of garlic. Dip a bag of your favorite tea then add some honey. Garlic is a natural antibiotic and contains antioxidants that can beat infection and strengthen immunity. 4. Apple Cider Vinegar. Mix one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, one tablespoon of honey, and one cup of warm water. Drink this mixture, but if the taste is too strong for you, gargle instead a mix of two tablespoons of the vinegar and ½ cup warm water. The acidity of this vinegar is effective in killing bacteria. 5. Honey. Simply eat a spoonful of raw, local honey, which is rich in antimicrobial properties, helping you heal faster.

Source: http://www.lifehack.org 5 Frugal Holiday Shopping Tips For those who still need to do some holiday purchases for next month’s gatherings, here are some shopping tips that are good for your wallet: 1. Split your shopping list. The first column contains things you can buy online and the second one is for items that require a trip to the store. Overload the first column because overspending also happens when you go around from one store to another. 2. Avoid social media. Posts on Pinterest or Facebook indirectly affect our buying behavior. Strictly stick to your shopping list. 3. Don’t shop when you’re hungry, thirsty, or tired. This is a classic shopping reminder not only during the Christmas season but all- Quick Health Tip year round. Shopping tired, hungry, or thirsty triggers mindless purchasing. We tend to buy something we don’t need in exchange Tamarind of what we actually need. Tamarind, locally known as sampaloc, is a sour and 4. Dress as a smart shopper. Research shows that even the clothes tangy fruit that has many health benefits. Its sticky we wear when we shop affect our buying behavior, so wearing a pulp is rich in dietary fiber, which augments bowel decent but comfortable outfit can make us feel like a wiser shopper. movements, thus preventing constipation. Dietary fiber 5. Buy multiples. A study shows that recipients of common items also helps in lowering the level of bad cholesterol in the body. Tamarind also has tartaric acid which is a potent are often as happy as when they receive special and unique gifts. antioxidant, protecting the body from harmful free So consider buying five beautiful similar items for five beautiful radicals. This fruit is also a good source of minerals like friends from one store than going to five different stores in search copper, potassium, calcium, iron, selenium, zinc, and of a special gift for each person. magnesium; and vitamins A, B, and C.

Source: https://www.realsimple.com/ Source: http://www.nutrition-and-you.com/

8 Kerygma November 2017 real stuff

is Brother Richie Fernando Saints-at-a-Glance The Next Filipino Saint? St. Roque Gonzalez de Days before the Santa Cruz feast of St. Ignatius of Loyola on July 31, Feast Day: November 17 2017, Father Antonio Birth: 1576 Moreno, head of the Death: 1628 Society of Jesus in the Philippines, expressed Roque Gonzalez de Santa their plan to work Cruz was the son of for the beatification noble Spanish parents in of Brother Richard Asuncion, the capital of

“Richie” Fernando, SJ. jesuit asia pacific conference Paraguay. He was ordained This news as a priest when he was 23 came out weeks years old and later became after Pope Francis interested in evangelizing approved of oblatio vitae, “the offering of one’s life,” as a new pathway that can lead the Indians in his country. to canonization. The criteria includes a free and voluntary offering of one’s life, and After 10 years, he avoided heroic acceptance, motivated by charity, of certain imminent death. ecclesiastical promotion and Richie Fernando was a 26-year-old Filipino Jesuit brother who was killed on joined the Society of Jesus October 17, 1996, after trying to stop a student from releasing a grenade in a school to get more opportunities for the handicapped in Cambodia. After his death, Filipinos and some Cambodians for missionary work. He have started and continued devotion to him. eventually headed and In a diary, Fernando once talked about how he hoped to be remembered. He established communities of wrote, “I wish, when I die, people remember not how great, powerful, or talented I Christian Indians supported was, but that I served and spoke for the truth, I gave witness to what is right, I was by the Jesuits in different sincere in all my works and actions, in other words, I loved and followed Christ.” parts of Paraguay, despite hardships and opposition Source: https://aleteia.org/ from the European colonists and other parties. In one of his Donate Your Clothes. Help Others. missions, he was attacked and killed by a group of natives Save Mother Earth. who were said to be under a Donating your old and unused clothes to institutions will not only help those in need powerful “medicine man.” In but also save the environment. Here are some of 1988, he was canonized by the places where you can bring your donations: Pope John Paul II. 1. H&M Foundation gives a 15 percent discount voucher for every bag of clothing you Source: http://www.catholic.org/ donate at all H&M stores nationwide. Visit www.about.hm.com/en/sustainability for more information. 2. The Philippine National Red Cross doesn’t only accept blood donations but clothes as well. These will be included in relief operations to storm-stricken parts of the country. Visit www.redcross.org.ph/get-involved/donate-now for more details. 3. Segunda Mana is a project of Caritas Manila, aiming to collect donations in kind, including used clothes, and resell them in Segunda Mana outlet stores. The proceeds of which will fund Caritas Manila’s efforts for the poor. Visit www.caritas. org.ph/get-involved/donate-in-kind/ for more information.

Sources: www.spot.ph, www.caritas.org.ph, www.redcross.org.ph, www.about.hm.com

Kerygma November 2017 9 Kfam insider God Goes Under a Bridge By Shellie Anne Javier-Follero

e Cares Mission, a Avenue, popularly called Muñoz Warm welcome. Heaven foundation that serves Bridge, to bring more children and must be smiling on Mark's family on the day of his the homeless, wounded, families closer to God. baptism. Welcome to the and vulnerable children Christian world, Mark! in Metro Manila, does Back to God Hmore than feed kids every Saturday in Joe Dean Sola, founder of He Cares its center. The He Cares servants also go Mission, believes that one of the to poverty-stricken families within the best ways to help the poor is to metro to bring God’s love to them. Just feed them with the Word of God recently, the team went to the informal and assist them in understanding settlers under the bridge of Roosevelt the Catholic sacraments such as

10 Kerygma November 2017 baptism, confirmation, confession, and the Holy Mass. Sadly, many of them think that availing of the sacraments is expensive. To shatter this belief and to encourage the people who have strayed from the Church to come home, Joe Dean formed the “Back to God" program, headed by Daryl Tamon. The program facilitates activities that can lead to spiritual renewal. Through this program, He Cares enlightened two families about the importance of baptism. Initially, these families insisted that they couldn’t afford to have their Joyful day. children baptized. But The He Cares staff joined the Back to God program the families of team was persistent in Stephanie (left photo) and Mark explaining that they (right photo) to didn’t need big money. celebrate and There were donors who give thanks. generously sponsored the baptism. The parents happily accepted the loving help offered to them. On January 15, 2017, Mark Angjel True to its name, He Cares For volunteer schedules Diaz and Stephanie extends the compassionate and inquiries, call the He Cares Escoria sacramentally and all-embracing love of God staff at (02) 928-8910. You may became part of the deposit your cash donations to: to the least, the last, and the BPI Savings Account: Christian world. He lost. Simple acts of mercy and He Cares Foundation, Inc. Cares volunteers and kindness can transform lives, #1953093053 staff celebrated this and can be an undeniable Visit www.lightfam.com momentous event with testimony that our Father to know more about the mercy the families of Mark and indeed cares for all His ministries of the Light of Jesus Family. Stephanie over a simple children. but delicious meal.

Kerygma November 2017 11

Dear K

Should I Resign Now?

Dear Archie, I feel for you. I would have felt the same, or maybe worse (ha,ha!), if I’m in I’m a licensed architect and I’ve been your shoes. These things though are clear to me: 1) You love what you do. Your in my dream job for four years now. doubts come not from what you’re doing but “where” you’re doing it; and 2) Your Our company offers good benefits and difficulty in relationships comes not from “around” you but from “above” you. I consider my office mates as friends. Yours is a classic case of being under weak leadership. You may have to I used to be very excited to go to work. evaluate if the benefits of staying in this company outweigh the negatives. If However, when our department you’re making that decision to stay (long- or short-term), I suggest you take on head resigned, he was replaced by the following: Miss M from another team. Though 1. Temper your expectations. This may not be the last time you’ll have Miss M is nice, I slowly lost my self- someone like this as your boss. Understand that in these cases, your goal is not esteem because she seems to focus to be “best friends” with your boss, but to “communicate well” with her. Treat her on my mistakes. I never received any as a customer you need to connect with. Study ways to “satisfy” her. Then you affirmation from her, and she only can manage your frustration. As a bonus, you’ll grow in your adversity quotient. calls me when something wrong 2. Encourage yourself. Since you’re not receiving this from your boss, get comes up from my project. When my this from yourself. Count the blessings of being in this company daily. Do a lot of team does an excellent job, she takes self-talk on how talented you are (“Ang galing ko” or “Boy, I’m really good in this” the credit and enjoys the recognition kind of self-talk). More importantly, find energy from a sense of purpose (“While but never acknowledges our efforts. It I’m here, I’m choosing to learn important skills, get business exposure, gain came to a point that I dreaded going important experience, and develop competencies that are useful for the next to work because I didn’t want to see chapters of my life). her. What should I do? I’m trying my As a bonus, let me add: best to reach out to her but I can’t 3. Know you are the better person. Every time it becomes difficult with seem to pass her standards. Because your boss, remember: your boss may not be your leader. Because you can be the of this, my love for my craft is dying better person who’s happy with your life, having great relationships, and having and I’m beginning to question if this things she may not have. In my experience, inferior leaders usually are hurt path is really for me. people. And hurt people, hurt people. As your boss, give her what she wants at Archie work. As the leader of your life, get your life back! Believe me, if you learn these three points above, you become more E-mail your questions to editsvp@ invincible each day! shepherdsvoice.com.ph. Or if you need to By the way, keep your friendships strong. They come talk to someone, call (632) 726-4709 or 726- in handy when hurdles become steep on some days. 6728 to contact a pastoral carer of the Light of Jesus Pastoral Care Center. Pastoral caring session by telephone is 24 hours from Monday I continue to pray for you, to Friday, and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays. Jon Face-to-face session is by appointment. For correspondence pastoral session, e-mail [email protected], go to www. kerygmafamily.com, or call (632) 725- Jon Escoto is the President and CEO of LEADLIFE, Inc. He is a Senior Corporate Training 9999, 726-0267, 726-4728 Consultant for the Top 500 corporations. Jon also serves as the Dean of the Light of Jesus School of Leadership.

Kerygma November 2017 13 Feast Snapshots

God Is Committed to Bless You at the Kerygma Conference 2017 By Marjorie Duterte

ou can almost taste together, the friendship, that’s what the Conference are the people who go there the excitement in the Kerygma Conference will have,” Bo hungry for the Word of God, for fellowship room that evening. Sanchez said. “Committed people should and intimacy with one another and with They braved the have fun. Otherwise, you’ll burn out,” he God. He will give a talk titled “Way Back Yrush-hour traffic just to be at the added, while reminding them, “You live into Love: #LoveGoals” to help people annual Speakers Night, a dinner only once.” rediscover love according to God’s plan. hosted by no less than Chef “Our life is short. But we’re going “Just be ready and be filled with Jessie Sincioco at the Rockwell to try in that short lifespan, to love, to the committed love of God for you,” he Club last August 29. serve, and to care. And I want to thank enthused. Her restaurant was filled you for doing that through the Kerygma Meanwhile, cyber missionary Fr. with souls on fire eager to Conference,” Bo expressed, ending with a Luciano Felloni looks forward to attending share a delightful meal and prayer that the Holy Spirit will send down the conference for the first time. meaningful conversations His fire and anoint them with a message “I want to learn and to listen, get to as they fellowship with one for the KCON attendees. know new people, and be inspired as a another and prepare for the Chef Jessie, who has been hosting leader,” he shared. He will also be speaking upcoming Kerygma Conference the Speakers Night for the past three on how to use social media, particularly (KCON) on November 23 to 26 at years now, said that it was her way of Facebook for evangelization. the SMX Convention Center and sharing in the mission to make people Feast Alabang builder Mike Viñas is Mall of Asia Arena. know how good God is. excited for everyone to come together Laughter filled the room “I hope that everybody will attend — all the Feasters, people from different even when one activity the conference because they will be able communities and all walks of life. The required the speakers not to learn so many things about life and atmosphere of unity and encouragement to laugh. Joy couldn’t be how to live it to the fullest in God’s terms is something he looks forward to every contained. and in God’s time,” she said. year. “This is the spirit that Fr. Joel Jason, who will be speaking at “When I go the KCON, it’s always 20,000 people will remember. the Church Ministry stream, shared that been life-changing. Even if it’s a big event, The love that we experience what he loves most about the Kerygma God speaks specifically to something

14 Kerygma November 2017 in our lives. You will not leave the by other successful and seasoned conference unchanged,” he said. entrepreneurs, including COL Financial That is exactly what Monching founder and chairman Edward Lee. Bueno, Feast Marikina Builder, Mr. Lee advised KCON attendees experienced when he attended KCON in to have an open mind so that they 2013. can learn new things, to listen to the “Four years ago, I sat at the Business speakers’ experiences so that they will Stream. I was extremely motivated. The be saved from a lot of costs such as time speaker said that people have many great and effort. ideas but they tend to hold back. After “When you learn from these that talk, I decided to start my business,” people, it will shorten your road to he said. The fruit of that KCON-inspired success,” he said. decision is Bueno’s Lights and Sounds Kerygma Conference chairman Solutions, which is now serving many Randy Borromeo shared that this is people. the best and most powerful group of From a first-time KCON attendee speakers they have brought together so in 2012, Monching has also become a far for the Kergyma Conference. committed servant. He will be speaking Receive valuable wisdom from at the Leadership Stream and Plenary them and hear God’s message for session at this year’s conference. you at the Kerygma Conference 2017, Meanwhile, Entrep Champ Paolo with the theme Committed: “God will Tibig expressed his commitment to help finish what he has started in your life" the attendees see the champion within (Philippians 1:6). them. “I am committed to help people For the list of speakers, streams, harness their potential and reach success classes, and to get your ticket, please in life,” he said as he is scheduled to speak visit www.kerygmaconference.com at the Business Stream. He will be joined today.

Kerygma November 2017 15

It happened

Spreading God's light. Chitin gives hope to those who live in darkness by sharing her story and guiding them in their journey.

L ove: A Lasting Light How My Relationships Helped Me Overcome My Addiction By Chitin Crisanto

et up, go to a rehabilitation center, ask I just found myself in an office in Makati, about their programs, and submit inquiring and signing up. From there, I went to a yourself.” hospital in Ortigas and submitted myself to the It was morning of September 28, psychiatric ward for detoxification. It was time to 2015 when I heard a voice directing me wash away more than 15 years’ worth of toxins, Gto head over to a rehabilitation center. Naturally, as a drugs, and alcohol in my system. This was the start drug addict, I didn’t want to listen. I didn’t want to go. of my recovery journey. But the voice didn’t stop. It wasn’t easy.

Kerygma November 2017 17 confident that I was inherently This cycle dragged on good. They probably for 15 years. I didn't know assumed that my vices were what else to do, until just a passing fancy. They I heard the voice that would scold me for my low changed my life. grades and failing subjects, and when I L osing My Spark came home I grew up as a daddy’s girl— late, reeking of alcohol and cigarette. loved, cared for, got what My mom never stopped nagging me but I wanted and had my way that was all to it. I’d do the same things every time. I also had my the following day. Of course, they didn’t own nanny to attend to all my know about the drugs. needs. Everything was going my way until But being a loner, I had 2004. My favorite person—my dad—got very few friends when I sick. He was hospitalized and after started school, and was often eight days, he passed away. He died bullied and ordered around. without witnessing the fulfillment of his After receiving so much dream—to see me walk onstage to get love at home, I felt unloved, my diploma. I finished college a year unworthy, and a good-for- after. It gave me more liberty to do what I nothing outside our house. It wanted, which made my life worse. went on for years. When I moved to Falling Deeper I had already mastered the art of a university to pursue After graduation, I started corporate making stories so that my mom would my college education, I work. I would do well in the beginning but give me money. Grudgingly, she would succumbed to the pressure never lasted long in a company. Moving do so—week after week. To finance my of my surroundings. I wanted from one company to another let me addiction, I fooled many people and people to like me so I joined have lots of friends, and I was confident stole their money. It was a cycle, and I them—from smoking, being with them. was caught in the middle. drinking alcohol, cutting By this time, my addiction to drugs Eventually, alcohol and drugs took classes, and even up to taking and alcohol had intensified. After their toll on me and I was unable to drugs. I felt better because drinking the entire night with my friends, perform my work well. I lost my job. my classmates liked me. I woke up one morning with a throbbing This time, I didn’t want to apply for They enjoyed being with me head and a more painful realization: I another job and opted to stay home. I and they made me feel good was raped. I couldn’t remember anything fell into a lifeless routine: wake up, look about myself. I had money because of my drunkenness. After more for drugs, get high. In the afternoon, I’d from my parents to buy drugs than a year, another guy raped me, and go out, drink alcohol, and get drunk. and alcohol, and my friends once again, I learned about it only upon This cycle dragged on for 15 years. loved me. I began to believe in waking up. Then I got sick and tired of being sick myself again. I tried to repress all my shame and and tired. I didn’t know what else to do, It took me nine years to pain by taking more drugs and alcohol. until I heard the voice that changed my finish a four-year course. I At least when I was high, I felt powerful, life. spent those years going to confident, productive, and willing to school but not very often do anything. The world was colorful. Inside the Basement to class. My parents knew I After the high, it would be dark again. After hearing a voice that told me was drinking and smoking, I stumbled my way out of this pit by to go to a rehabilitation center, I but they must have been relying on false and temporary sources reluctantly heeded the call. I signed of light. up for the program, and my attending

18 Kerygma November 2017 one forced me to stop. It was my decision, but I Unconditional love. Chitin (left) know that it was the Holy Spirit who whispered is thankful for the acceptance and encouragement that her and encouraged me to submit myself. That mom (middle) and sister (right) moment opened my journey back to God. I now give her. know and believe that He loves me—that’s why I am able to love myself. I haven’t had another relapse and I will never go back. I am still a work- on my rehabilitation. After in-progress, but I do not worry. I am strong and that one relapse, I told I believe in myself. I can do so much more with myself it won’t happen God in me. again. My determination Today, I am giving back. I go around was cast in stone. And I ministering to people, sharing my experience never looked back since. to those in the dark, and helping them to see the light. I joined a group of volunteers who Light, Finally have experienced the same struggle and are I've been imprisoned by helping others, too. We share this light to jails, my addiction for a long institutions, hospitals, and other rehabilitation time, but now I am free. I centers in the Philippines. finally saw that the colorful I won’t be able to do all these if not for the world that my addiction love that I receive from my family and friends, brought was just a cover-up most importantly from God. He changed my for a dark quarry. What I heart. He transformed my mind. He pulled considered as safe ground me out from my lowest and dirtiest state, and was actually a quicksand. remodeled me to love myself, to love Him, and And all the “highs” and to serve Him. His love is the light that guided me happiness that they gave out of the darkness. me were temporary. God’s unconditional love is the light that But not my family’s never fades away. psychiatrist made me stay in love. the “basement," the pyschiatric While I was under rehab, unit of the hospital, for my mom and sister would New beginnings. Chitin is now a source of almost a month. My personal come every week to join me hope and inspiration to those who are going belongings, gadgets, alcohol, in the Family Rehabilitation through the same addiction. She testifies how powerful God's grace is. cigarettes, and drugs were not Program, walking with allowed behind closed doors. me through the process. My family and friends were Together, we grew a lot, not allowed to visit me also. learned to love more, and My world turned upside down. to connect more. I was surrounded by different As days rolled by, I kinds of people with various realized how much my disorders—young and old, rich family and real friends and poor. We were all addicts! love me even at my worst. After my stint in the My mom never stopped basement, I went into a praying and calling on to rehabilitation program and Mama Mary and St. Joseph graduated after a year of for intercession, every struggles and challenges. hour and every day. The Temptation was all around problem was within me. me. After five months, I fell and I didn’t love myself nor used drugs again. I felt dirty, believe in myself which led low, and the worst human me to my addiction. being in the planet. Thankfully, the Lord But the experience taught never gave up on me. No me to be stronger and to focus

Kerygma November 2017 19

Special Section Introduction INVEST ON THE FUTURE YOU WANT

By Bo Sanchez

o, we’re torn between loving my mother and What if this 63-year-old grandmother read this loving my kids.” magazine when she was in her 20s, 30s, 40s? The situation My friend Pam was talking about her would have been totally different. aging mother and her two daughters. Dramatically different. Her mother was 63 years old and very Because she and her husband could have saved 20 sickly. Since her father died, Pam’s mother has percent of their income every month and invested it in the Bbeen living with her for the last two years. stock market, mutual funds, and other investments. By age “Bo, we’re not rich. But last month, we spent more than 63, she would have had P10 million. P12,000 for my mother’s medicines. Again! I wish my two She’d be living comfortably in her own simple house. brothers and other sister take care of her, too,” she said, She’d be paying for her own medicines and doctor’s fees. her voice trembling. “My husband doesn’t complain but With her own money, she’d have hired a full-time I’m sure he doesn’t like it. We have two daughters and we caregiver and house help. sometimes can’t buy them things for school because of Every weekend, her children and grandchildren would Mom. Yesterday, my daughter asked me again if I could buy visit. The grandkids would love going there because there’s her a computer—but I told her, ‘Sorry, we can’t,’” she paused always delicious food prepared for them. During those to breathe, fighting back her tears, “‘because grandma visits, her four children would “fight” for Grandma to stay needs our money.’” in their home. “Mommy, you always stay with my sister,” “Have you asked your brothers and sister to help out?” the younger one would say, “Why don’t you also stay at my I asked. house?” “We fight about it a lot. Over the phone. E-mails. I tell Once a year, Grandma pays for a big family vacation them to let our mother stay in their homes. That it’s their for all her children and grandkids. Last year, they went to turn. But they tell me they can’t afford it, too.” Vigan. This year, they’re going to Batanes. “I see.” Thanks to Grandma, everyone looks forward to this big “Bo, the sad thing is that Mom feels it. She knows we break. don’t like her at home.” Now I ask you: What kind of future do you want? “Why do you say that?” May this issue help you see the benefits of investing. “I just know. Perhaps she overheard us fighting. Sure, there’ll be problems along the way. But life is full of Sometimes, she talks about dying so that we won’t be risks. burdened anymore.” Are you willing to risk for a better future? Read on.

Kerygma November 2017 21 Special Section Teaching CREATE YOUR MONEY MACHINES First in your mind, then in reality

By Bo Sanchez ne day, a huge alien ship When Mang Pong woke up the house. Life was great that day! arrived on planet Earth. next morning, he discovered the The following month, Mang Pong The aliens on the ship strange-looking feathered creature at couldn’t believe his eyes. Because the surveyed humankind the back of his little hut. chicken laid another golden egg! So and were so moved by “Where did that weird animal he ran to town, sold again the golden Othe poverty they saw. They pitied the come from?” Mang Pong asked. “It’s egg, and bought an iPod, a laptop, a poor so much, they decided to help. extra-large and has golden-colored Jacuzzi, and a 60-inch plasma TV. Ah They left behind one of their very wings!” yes, life was becoming very sweet for special chickens. But then something even weirder Mang Pong. Looking around, the aliens chose happened. When the chicken stood And when the third month came, Mang Pong, a very poor farmer, to up, Mang Pong saw a shiny egg he already expected the egg. And he receive their wonderful gift. And in the underneath it, glimmering under the sold the golden egg and bought more middle of the night, they teleported sun. The chicken just laid a golden egg! stuff. this chicken to the backyard of Mang Boy, was Mang Pong excited. But the next day, Mang Pong grew Pong. And in the blink of an eye, the He rushed out, sold the golden very impatient. He realized that he ship rocketed away to a far, distant egg, and bought lots of food, new had to wait for another month for the galaxy. clothes, and new furniture for his tiny next egg. But he wanted buy his own

22 Kerygma November 2017 personal helicopter and his They were happy to discover to type the entire letter every time I want a copy. very own private helipad. He some had become wealthy. The If I’m using a computer, all I have to do is press the badly needed more golden eggs. rich were those who owned “print” button—and I can create as many copies as And then he had a brilliant chickens that laid golden eggs. I want. idea—or so he thought. But they were also sad that There are two types of manual money You see, Mang Pong wasn’t many remained poor, including machines. very bright. He said, “Where are Mang Pong. The first is a job. these eggs coming from? From The second is self-employment. inside the chicken!” Money or Money Machines? So he grabbed the alien This is the story of many poor Your Job Is a Manual Money Machine chicken, got his sharpest knife, people. Jobs are great. Jobs put food on the table. Jobs and cut it open. The poor prefer golden eggs offer some level of security. But alas, Mang Pong didn’t (money) rather than the chicken After all, companies don’t fold up overnight, find a single golden egg inside. that lays them (money machines). right? But I call them manual money machines And the alien chicken was now Remember this lesson: Every because the moment you stop working, you stop dead! Mang Pong cried at the golden egg has a chicken inside. earning, too. loss of his chicken and all her Do you have money right Let’s say you earn P350 a day. golden eggs. now? Inside every coin and paper After working for eight hours, you earn P350. And slowly, the farmer had bill is a money machine. You just You’re so happy. to sell his clothes, his furniture, need to “incubate” it for sometime. But the next day, to earn another P350, you his iPod, his laptop, his Jacuzzi, So you always have a choice. have to work for another eight hours. That’s why I and his wide-screen TV. And in You can “spend” the egg or you believe that jobs offer a false sense of security. a year, the farmer became very can let the egg become a chicken. What if something happens to you or your poor again. Remember: Money without company—and your job ends? One day, as he walked money machines are not I urge employees never to depend their life on around town depressed, he met blessings but burdens. Because one manual money machine. one person who had become the things that you buy with your very rich. And the man was money need more money to Self-Employment Is a Manual Money Machine, thanking him profusely. maintain them. Too “Why are you thanking Your money—if you don’t Some self-employed professionals are richer than me?” he asked. spend it, but incubate it—can many employees. These are dentists, doctors, “Remember the golden egg become a money machine. lawyers, photographers, artists, singers, actors, you sold me?” he said. We’ve been brainwashed with event coordinators, sari-sari store owners, etc… “Yes, of course,” Mang Pong a wrong spirituality: We’ve made Theoretically, they own their time. said. God the chicken. We’ve made Him But it’s still a manual money machine because “Well, the egg hatched…” he our money machine. the moment they stop working, they stop earning, said. But from experience, God too. “What do you mean the egg doesn’t give money. He gives us Because they’re still exchanging time for hatched?” the farmer asked. money machines that will give money. “I placed it in an incubator. the money. God wants to provide Let me now introduce you to automatic After 12 months of care, it money machines for you. money machines. hatched and out came a Here are the different types chicken. A very special chicken. of money machines: (1) job, Paper Assets Are Automatic Money Machines It’s extra-large and has golden (2) self-employment, (3) paper If you invest in the stock market, mutual funds, wings. But more importantly, it investments, (4) businesses, and and retail treasury bonds (RTB), you’re creating an lays golden eggs!” (5) properties. automatic money machine. Mang Pong could only stare Let me explain each one of them: in disbelief. Every egg he sold— Two Kinds of Money Machines given the right conditions— There really are only two kinds 1. Retail Treasury Bonds could have become a chicken. of money machines. It’s either Many years ago, I read in the newspaper that the Oh, if only he kept the eggs manual or automatic. government was selling RTBs. They promised 11.75 and made them hatch — then he The difference is radical. percent interest each year if I kept the bonds for would have had many chickens The manual money machine five years. Bonds are simply “I owe you” papers. laying golden eggs for him is like the typewriter. So I marched into the Development Bank of the every day. The automatic money Philippines and asked about it. I told them I never After many years, the alien machine is like the computer. did this before. I invested P100,000 just to try it ship returned to planet Earth. If I’m using a typewriter, I have out.

Kerygma November 2017 23 Special Section

As I write this today, RTBs give much lower interest rates. I suggest this for I want you to compare how people with huge amounts of money who don’t want risk. much you’ll earn if your money grows at 4 percent interest (for 2. Mutual Funds example, time deposit in banks) Through the years, I’ve invested a lot in mutual funds. and at 12 percent interest (for Mutual funds are really simple. Instead of directly buying the bonds or directly example, mutual funds). getting into the stock market, you give your money to a fund manager. You let Fact: You can be a millionaire them manage your money for you—for a management fee. This company then by investing small amounts every invests it in bonds and the stock market for you. month. Many mutual funds accept as low as P5,000 or P10,000 investments. This is That’s why I keep telling people great news. We want the poor to enjoy the interest rates enjoyed by the rich. They, that banks aren’t the place for your too, can earn 12 to 18 percent interest every year. long-term investments. Unless But the key is to invest in mutual funds only if you’ll put in your money for of course you’re like some of my at least six years. The longer, the better. In fact, I suggest you do this for your friends who already have millions— retirement. and a small interest rate will be There are various kinds of mutual funds. If the mutual fund is invested totally enough for them. in various bonds, it’s called a bond fund. If the mutual fund is invested in both Notice also that the length of bonds and the stock market, it’s called a balanced fund. If the mutual fund is fully time is crucial. The longer you save, invested in the stock market, it’s called an equity fund. the wealthier you become. The Obviously, equity funds are more volatile but I’ll recommend that for you if earlier you save, the richer you get. you won’t touch your money for 10 years or more. Then there are peso, dollar, and Let me introduce to you euro mutual funds, too. Confused? Good. That means you have to study more. another powerful paper I remember my very first investment in a mutual fund five years ago. I put in asset. P300,000 in one balanced fund. Today, it’s worth P500,000 plus and keeps on growing. 3. The Stock Market I’m speaking for the Philippine situation. In the US, it’s a totally different ball “The stock market is dangerous!” game. It might be better to invest your money in an index fund rather than a Have you heard that before? mutual fund. An index fund is money invested in the entire US Stock Market — and I have. Many times. And you it has zero management fees. And they say that the index fund gives you a higher know what? I agree. interest rate than 80 percent of all mutual funds in the US. Weird, right? After all, statistics say that 85 percent of stock market players lose Invest Small Amounts Today their money. Believe me, billions I want you to study the table below: have been lost. But whenever people say, “The stock market is dangerous!” they’re Monthly Savings Interest 10 Years 20 Years 30 Years referring to trading in the stock 4% 147T 366T 694T market. Not investing in the stock P1,000 market. 12% 247T 980T 3.2M There’s a big difference. 4% 294T 733T 1.4M I want you to invest, not trade, P2,000 in the stock market. If you want to 12% 495T 2M 6.5M trade in the stock market, then what I’m going to say won’t help you. 4% 441T 1M 2M P3,000 Please look elsewhere. 12% 743T 3M 10M Here’s the basic difference. 4% 736T 2M 3.5M Trading is buying stocks and P5,000 selling them within a day or a few 12% 1.2M 5M 16M days. Investing is buying stocks and 4% 1.4M 4M 7M P10,000 selling them in six months or never! 12% 2.5M 10M 32M (Warren Buffet, the man who made his billions in the stock market, 4% 3M 7M 14M P20,000 rarely sells his stocks.) Here’s why 12% 5M 20M 65M I believe you should be investors: 4% 7M 18M 35M I don’t believe ordinary people P50,000 should be trading. I repeat, 80 12% 12M 50M 163M percent of people lose their money

24 Kerygma November 2017 in the stock market. My belief is companies, you can earn up to P10 So that’s P200,000. And even that wasn’t that most of those 80 percent million. That’s a growth rate of 22 mine. I borrowed P200,000 from my mother- are traders. And most of the 20 to 24 percent a year. It won’t be a in-law, promising to pay her interest. percent who do earn money in straight line up, that’s for sure. Six months later, we sold it through a rent- the stock market are investors. Through the years, there’ll to-own scheme. So leave the trading to full- be a lot of zigzags. So like your The tenant will pay us for 20 years. My time traders, people who do this investments in mutual funds above, profit in the deal? I will earn P10,000 a month. eight hours a day. this stock market strategy is for long- In 20 months, I get back my investment (or You, on the other hand, term investments only. By the way, more accurately, the investment of my mother- should focus on your business I give a special personal service to in-law). But the great thing is that for the next or job. Focus on your core my TrulyRichClub members. Each 18 years, I’ll earn a passive income of P10,000 competency. Stick to your game month, I tell them my personal every month. plan. Through your business investments in the stock market. A You might tell me, “Bo, P10,000 is nothing or job, you create the money lot of people find this very helpful. nowadays.” necessary to invest in the stock Each month, I update them if there But who says we stopped with one condo? market. are any changes in my investments. So far, my partner and I have done nine condos. I also give to my members a special Now if you’ll excuse me, I have to deposit post- Who Wants to Retire with P10 report entitled, Stocks Update dated checks for this month into my bank Million? E-Newsletter. account. Gosh, what a hard life. Here’s what you do: Open an You can join the TrulyRichClub account in www.COLFinancial. by logging on www. TrulyRichClub. Business Is My Favorite Automatic Money com and click on their “Easy com now. Machine Investment Program.” You can But obviously, this is my favorite. download the application form Some Properties Can Be I love setting up businesses. from the website. And then Automatic Money Machines, Too Why? Because I love serving people. For start doing your Money Cost My friend and mentor, Larry me, business is ministry. The only difference Averaging. Gamboa, taught me all I know about between ministry and business is that I earn I believe this is one of the creating passive income via real from it. But the purpose is the same. most powerful ways to grow estate. Years ago, one of my partners I love my customers. I love to bless them your wealth. and I bought a condo for P1 million. It with the best products. What is Money Cost was a foreclosed property from the I firmly believe that love is the best Averaging? It’s investing a bank. business strategy in the world. regular amount every month Now, you might be impressed: for years. And you don’t touch “Wow, Bo has lots of money.” Taken from Bo Sanchez's book, 8 Habits your money for decades. Actually, we only paid the down of a Happy Millionaire, available at www. In the Easy Investment payment of 20 percent required by kerygmabooks.com. Program of COL Financial, the bank. you can invest P5,000 (or more) every month into great, solid, stable companies. COL Financial will even tell you what these companies are. (Note: If you can’t afford P5,000 a month, then save up for two or three months until you have the amount and invest it that month.) In other words, it’s like creating your own mutual fund. You choose what companies you want to investin. You plunk in your money every month, not minding whether the market is up or down. Their fearless forecast: If you invest P5,000 a month for 22 years on these great

Kerygma November 2017 25 Special Section | Testimony

Millenial coach. As a millenial herself, Chai finds joy in empowering more youth to be financially-free.

Sharing the Oasis HOW AN ENGINEER LIKE ME BECAME A FINANCIAL EDUCATOR

By Chai Santiago

have been blessed to start my financial Finding Myself in the Middle of the Desert journey with IMG (International I started attending IMG’s financial literacy Marketing Group) in 2013 at the age of classes in 2008 when I was 18 years old. Back 22. I'm a graduate of Manufacturing then, I had no plans of changing careers. Engineering and Management with There was absolutely no way I would put Ispecialization in Biomedical Engineering from to waste my five long years in Engineering De La Salle University (DLSU). So if there's (and that was pretty long, considering DLSU– anyone who can attest to the famous phrase, Manila is trimestral). Needless to say, I was "Life begins at the end of your comfort zone,” adamant about being a “corporate slave” after that would be me. graduation—a predictable choice for college Let me share with you my story. students or fresh graduates.

26 Kerygma November 2017 In 2013, just a few months found the answer. I’m happy to say that stretched by God and pushed to after my graduation, my life the answer then and the answer now step out of my comfort zone, I want shifted. I attended an IMG remains the same. I was made for this to give the same challenge to the Convention in Singapore with and God's grace brought me here. people I meet every day— to find my entire family. At that time, the oasis and share it to others. I was already contemplating Sharing the Oasis Let me end with this beautiful whether I would go for the Each day, my passion for this cause prayer by Bo Sanchez: typical 8 to 5 corporate job continues to grow stronger. As I or pursue a career in the encounter more and more people, hear The True Millionaire's Prayer financial industry. During different stories, learn more valuable life the convention, one of the lessons, and see the ratio of people who Today, I ask You to bless me so that I speakers, Rex Mendoza, asked have financial failures versus those who may become a blessing. all of those who were serious have experienced financial successes, Lord, I commit myself to enrich about spreading financial I realize that there’s still a lot of work others. education to stand up. Since that needs to be done. There are more But because I cannot give what I do my only engagement at that people out there who need to be led to not have, time was with IMG, I stood up, this financial oasis. I commit myself to become rich. not knowing that my life would With that in mind, I took the I commit myself to serve You and to never be the same again. courage to start a Facebook page that’s serve the poor with my wealth. Rex said, "I want you to solely dedicated to sharing practical Today, I open myself to the imagine that you are in the wealth management tips. I decided to abundance of Your universe. middle of the desert with all of focus on reaching out to millennials Use me as Your channel of love. your loved ones, family, friends, for two major reasons: one is that the Give me the ability to create wealth and a whole lot of other people. youth will always have a special place that will bless the world. You've been journeying for in my heart (since I used to lead a youth Increase my financial wisdom and quite some time now with no ministry not-so-long ago), and two, the expand my territories. food, no water, nothing. You're youth has a very big potential. We have I place my life in Your hands. all hungry and thirsty. All of a the opportunity, we have the resources, Amen. sudden, you found an oasis! My and predominantly, we have the time. question is, what are you going Teaching the millennials how to make to do with the oasis? Will you better choices in handling their money share it? Or will you keep it to can turn their lives around and the lives yourself?" of the generations after them. It all starts He paused. I thought to by giving them the right information. Inspiration. Chai passes on to the myself, “Of course I will share it! With this, we can contribute to nation new generation the wisdom, love, and It would be so selfish of me if I building, and most importantly, to encouragement that she continues to won’t.” the building of God’s Kingdom here receive from her mentors, including (L - R) Then he continued, "I want on earth. Yes, we cannot separate the Benj Santiago, Rex Mendoza, and Fely Santiago. Benj and Fely, Chai's parents, you to know that IMG is the spiritual side of money management. are also engineers who now pursue their oasis of the financial services As a financial educator and a calling as financial educators. industry. The question now proud Truly Rich is what will you do? Will you Maker, my personal share it? Or will you keep it to mission is to make yourself?" sure that people That story changed my don’t just stop at life. Of course, it wasn't an easy making themselves nor instant decision for me. rich, or on achieving Choosing this career meant I'd their own dreams be back to square one. I had and fulfilling their to consider many factors and own potential. let go of a lot of things should There’s more to life I decide to pursue this career. than mere personal It was a really tough decision success and that’s to make but with prayers—lots what I call pursuing and lots of prayers—guidance, significance. In the and exposure to the industry, I same way that I was

Kerygma November 2017 27 Special Section Teaching HOW TO BECOME AN INVESTOR AND ENTREPRENEUR WHILE BEING AN EMPLOYEE

By Rex Mendoza

ftentimes, many people get stuck with they could never have been who they are today. the comfort and security of corporate life. Baby steps can mean understanding investments People get caught in situations where they or the business that you want to be involved in, and feel that they can't become an investor and reading about the people and the enterprises that have entrepreneur while still an employee. These been successful in that field. If you can, check out the Ocommon alibis need to constantly be challenged, tested, companies and the people who are currently in that and refuted. With a concrete plan and strategy, they can be industry. History will tell you that giant leaps are never the overcome. norm. And if you are consistent in focusing on the small steps to take, you can’t be overwhelmed. Overwhelming Becoming a successful employee, entrepreneur, Not Enough Time and investor can be such a big dream. It becomes Another common alibi is not having the time. overwhelming if you frequently stand in awe at the people Do you know that the average Filipino watches three who have done big moves at certain times of their lives hours of TV and videos on their gadgets every day? Three and have now become the huge successes. hours per day is equivalent to 19 weeks of productive If you study successful people and their time in a given year! This time can be devoted to business, achievements, you will realize that they started with education, or having genuine rest periods. The problem is baby steps, encountered a lot of trials, and they were that many do not recognize it. able to overcome these and pull through. If they became I taught computational finance, marketing, and overwhelmed, they could have stopped on their tracks sales in MBA school when I was a corporate executive. I and may have not faced up to the big challenges. Thus, continued doing that even as I already had businesses

28 Kerygma November 2017 on the side. I had training focus their attention and capabilities development in our company with AIA’s Legal and consultancy sessions on in the performance of their functions and Compliance Departments. weekends and I had extra time and duties. With the firm belief To this very date, no agent or agency to write a monthly column at that this is true, many people see leader in Philam Life, and any party from the “View of Taft” forBusiness opportunities as mere distractions any other distribution channel all across the World. I tell a lot of people that I since they love their job and they don’t industry, has complained against Rampver was able to do all that because want to shortchange the companies Financials. Of course, there will always be I practically missed all the that they are part of. envious people who alluded to the existence telenovelas the average Filipino The baseline requirement for of a conflict-of-interest situation because of usually watches. every employee is job performance. the various high positions I’ve held in my Upon recognizing time If this is not impaired in any way, then corporate career. A number of people tried to wasters and avoiding them, you there should be nothing wrong in bring me and our company down. can become more financially participating in some form of business Whenever you become successful, these rewarded. This doesn’t mean venture. However, you always have people will always be around. If you limit you don't have to watch TV to know what side of your bread is yourself just because of what others can say or videos on your gadgets or buttered. If your job is your main line, about you and what you do, it will be hard to chat with friends. No. It means dream big dreams. You have to being selective. Be conscious decide which voices matter and about what you spend your which don’t. time on. Remember, you define what becomes pleasurable Lack of Capital and painful for yourself. The This is one of the biggest stumbling decision regarding how you blocks for many people. Since spend your time will eventually it is rooted on real personal define the person you will be. circumstances, it is difficult to overcome. Many do not have Too Difficult the money to set up businesses Some people hesitate to go or start an investment portfolio. into entrepreneurship and Without capital, some great ideas investments even while still and dreams just fade. While the employed, saying, “It's too it has to be your priority. No question reality of not having capital can be a daunting difficult and complicated, I don’t about that. You have to resign the barrier to entrepreneurship and investing, the understand it, and it’s so hard to minute that you feel that your job is more empowering question to ask is, “What do learn.” becoming your sideline. you do about it?” With the investment options For investments, education For employees contemplating available today, all it takes is setting aside a and execution have to be on a business endeavor, the value of small sum over a few weeks or months to a function of appreciation. integrity will be of utmost importance. start a portfolio. It takes a few thousands, not It is difficult if you start Seeking clarity, asking permission, and millions, to invest in managed funds. complicating your portfolio making all the required disclosures On the other hand, you have to be serious with financial instruments you will put any undertaking beyond enough to set up a plan to accumulate don’t understand. It will be reproach. the funds required to start your business. tough when you immediately When I became president and Budgeting well and sacrificing lifestyle jump into investments that CEO of Philam Asset Management, upgrades can lead you to set money aside and can confuse you. Biting more Inc. (PAMI), I made all the proper be on track to launch your venture. than what you can chew can disclosures regarding Rampver Another option is to have partners to back be a recipe for disaster. You Financials to Philam Life and AIG. I did you up. This will be a more effective recourse can start with simpler financial the same when I joined Ayala Land. especially if having a “first mover” advantage instruments and move on to Before coming back to assume the role will be crucial. It will be a matter of letting go more complicated ones as of President and CEO at Philam Life, of a certain level of control and ownership, but you augment your education I even had a series of sessions with it is the price you may have to pay to start the regarding the financial market. AIA’s Head of Compliance to complete business immediately. In this case, you have a set of required actions to ensure to be able to sell your business’ prospects and Employees Should Not Be in that everything will be above board. your capability to run the business really well. Business Throughout my tenure at Philam Your commitment to make it succeed must be This misconception is not Life, Anna, my wife, was Rampver’s firm and unquestionable. largely misplaced since people President and CEO. However, I Again, it is a game of momentum. If who are paid to do a job need to made it a point to clear every major you start setting aside funds, or begin the

Kerygma November 2017 29 Special Section preparation of a compelling proposition for has to be unwavering follow Keeping yourself on other people to join you, momentum will through. Any path towards track for peak performance be on your side because you've already the achievement of anything on all three roles will be capitalized on being involved in the monumental is always an fueled by having intensely business before you even put your first peso unpaved road. I believe the keys ingrained habits and by on it. would be commitment, hard work, avoiding exposure to and discipline. temptations that can derail Limited Knowledge and Experience Commitment is very different you. By waking up early, you I usually ask people if they have dreams from interest. Commitment is a can start your day with a about having their own business. The steadfast focus on results. Again — plan in order to be in control majority’s answer is always a resounding no excuses, only results. of your schedule. “yes!" However, whenever I follow that up Being an entrepreneur and an Understanding your with a clincher question that goes, “What did investor requires more than just timetable is also important. you do last week to make it happen?” people interest. Interest can mean doing You're still an employee become uncomfortably silent. something when it is convenient. and you don't want to short- Many believe that the lack of capital Commitment is being completely change the company you is always the biggest hurdle. Not exactly accountable for results and are currently with. Since it true, but it is the best excuse by many to the resolute determination for is paying you a salary and stay within their status quo. They think optimization. giving you benefits, you that learning about the business follows Hard work will be essential as have to give back more after the capital needed for it is secure. If well. There is no replacement for than what is due. Giving you are serious about your dream, you it. No cutting corners. Like all the more than what is due the have to realize that confidence in getting important aspects of your life, you company means devoting into business is built on the foundation of have to give each endeavor the the correct amount of time knowledge or experience that is required to required time, effort, and nothing for your tasks and ensuring make it work. but your best. results that are better than However, keep in mind that you won’t Lastly, discipline is a basic expected. know everything about the business until requirement to be a successful you begin to run it. If you’ll wait for complete executive, entrepreneur, or Different Strokes for knowledge and information, you won’t be investor. An immense amount of it Different Folks able to start. There comes a time when you is a must if you want to be great at It is my pride and privilege have to trust your gut and just get on with it. performing all these three roles at to see my eldest daughter, Oftentimes, actual experience is the the same time. Peevee, creating a name best teacher. You have to be open to make You have to be highly for herself in real estate. adjustments and changes as they are motivated, with a deep sense She is a property specialist necessary. Learning doesn’t have to stop. of self-control to stay on track at Ayala Land, earning to achieve your goals. Evaluate variable income and getting Moving Ahead and Staying Ahead what you do in a given day and commissions that are much, After deciding to move ahead, there assess which will impact and much higher than what I got contribute to your at her age. While our network end in mind. Time provided her some starting management ground, she’s building her is not about base up effectively on her managing time, own. In less than a year, she but managing made substantial sales from yourself and her own effort over and what to put on above the contacts that we your time. You shared with her. have to do what is She conceptualized right and relevant and produced her own because your day marketing materials on will not be enough top of what the company if precious hours provides to its sellers. Many are spent on think that she’s well-to- trivial activities. do and exempt from the

30 Kerygma November 2017 humbling activity of manning knack for sales and marketing. After honoree whose focus has been booths and “flyering” in malls. On having summer internship in our outstanding grades rather than the contrary, she has moved to company, I expected him to join us after effectively connecting with perfect her pitch and to initiate graduation. people. remarkable conversations with He didn’t. He looked forward to People, like our children, people she doesn’t know. work for a company with products and have different inclinations, She recently invited me services much closer to his heart, and but it should not limit them for dinner. I didn’t know what it more relevant to his areas of interest. to try getting out of their was about until she said, “Dad, He’s now with Globe Telecom and is comfort zone and exploring I’m already receiving sizeable part of its team that deals with their the possibility of being an commissions, and if my trend most discriminating clients, Globe entrepreneur and investor continues, these will grow. Can Platinum. while being an employee. you be my financial adviser? Yet Enro is enjoying it! He goes to Because eventually, What should I do?” work early in the morning, and comes our quest is to glorify God She continued, “I’m home late—daily! Barely a year on the through the life that we live. thinking about these options— job, he has been entrusted to lead key We glorify God not by simply having a portion in managed projects, a video commercial, and a singing Him praises, though funds, increasing my base of product launch. I know he is doing well that is something we have investments in direct stocks because of the awards he has been to do whenever we can. We which you can help me pick. given. It’s clear that he likes what he is glorify God by optimizing and Soon, I’m also considering doing and his passion shows. maximizing what He has given buying my own Ayala Land The other area we need to highlight us, and using His gifts and Premier property. Remember? in our exchanges with our children blessings for the fulfillment of You’ve told me that it will always is the value of relationships. While His Word. be easier to sell something that it pays to be smart and intelligent, you own yourself.” handling oneself well at work or in Rex Mendoza is the president and CEO To my surprise, she added, social situations can dictate success or of Rampver Financials, a dynamic niche player in the financial services industry “And I want this portion to go failure. Without effective influence and specializing in investments, and the straight to tithing. I want to leadership, knowledge and expertise biggest non-bank distributor of mutual contribute to the Church and to can’t achieve sustainable results. funds in the Philippines. the people who need it most, but Reanna, our youngest daughter, is help me make choices.” the most academically inclined among EDITOR'S NOTE: This article is an I cannot help but hold back our children. She has always been a excerpt from his soon-to-be released first tears because I saw someone “straight A” student. However, this kind book through Kerygma Books. Check it who is far, far better than the of performance makes us concerned out at www.kerygmabooks.com. Rex Mendoza I knew at her about other things. age. During my time, I was just It is a great experience to regularly focused on becoming successful, pin medals on her, but we always Discipleship Hacks which I defined in grossly tell her that being selected as one of material or financial terms. My her school’s delegates to the World 1. Growing up, what are your thrust to become relevant and Youth Day in Poland last year and thoughts about investing? Does this contributory to others came only being the sole school representative issue help you understand it more? recently in my life. The values to the Cross Cultural Leadership 2. This month, make a conscious Anna and I now espouse, the Conference in Bali, Indonesia, are better effort to follow the “envelope values that kept us in this unified signs of recognition because they system.” Allocate an envelope for platform together—living a life reflect her classmates' and teachers’ each of your budget category (tithe, that is significant and purpose- acknowledgement of her leadership, savings, expenses, etc), and divide driven—I saw in Peevee that influence, and affability. your income accordingly as it comes. dinner. I cannot be more proud We all forget about our grades 3. Read more financial literacy as a parent, recognizing that she’s after a few years, but we never forget materials that can give you practical going to be much, much better the friendships we nurtured, and the guidelines on how to start and than who I was. experiences we shared with people as sustain your investments. (Tip: Visit My son, Enro, could we grow up. It will always be better to be www.kerygmabooks.com for a wide have easily joined Rampver remembered as a person who fostered selection of easy-to-understand and Financials. I think he has a lasting relationships than an academic spiritually-grounded financial and wealth management books.)

Kerygma November 2017 31 Man-on-the-street

hile investment seems to be a foreign and tricky Wword to many, there are people who dared and are now grateful they did. Some of our Kerygma friends shared what or who inspired them to invest and how learning about Worth the Risk investment blesses them:

I invested for the future. My parents and Tito Bo Sanchez inspired me to invest. My daughter started to They taught me the abundance formula: to give first to the bake at eight years old One who always gives us the best by tithing. I'm always and because we want amazed at how God blesses me every day of my life. Tithing to be secured that she’ll allows me to put my trust in Him! Next, I invest 20 percent have money in the for the future because I actually care for myself. If I’ll only future, we invested a part think about the present, how will I be in the future? And of her earnings. This is lastly, 70 percent for the present because it’s my reward to also my way of teaching myself after a hard day’s work. Sometimes, there’s still more them how to save. left so I opt to give it back to the Lord or save more because –Darlene Ivy materials things are very earthly. I cannot bring them to heaven so might as well invest on what makes me happy and secured. I consider my relationship with God + tithing as my best investment ever! –Chiara Santiago

The year I turned 25 years old is my breakthrough year—financially speaking. Though I’m not a millionaire yet, quarter life opened up doors of financial wisdom for me. I had a 180-degree change in perspective. I used to be so proud that I thought I didn’t need to save money. I've got people to lean on when worse comes to worst. I also have trust issues which made me skeptic when it comes to investments. To top it all, I experienced several losses in life, so I told myself I cannot afford another failure. So what made me decide to take the risk? Pain. I learned about it from our family. Sometimes, pain moves people to change. I My goal for investing is to retire gathered all my 'hugot' in life and put it to good early and for financial stability in use. Pascal's wager inspired me: that if I win, I win the future. –Donna May Apostol everything; if I lose, I lose nothing, so I might as well have faith than none. –Say Bautista

32 Kerygma November 2017 My grandparents on both sides all came Being a financially challenged solo from poor families. Consequently, both parent pushed me to learn about my parents grew up poor as well. With that investments and how it can better vicious pattern, I was made to believe that I my life and consequently that was likely to be poor, too. But when I was 16, of my children. I read books and I promised myself that I would break that listened to talks. As solo parents, cycle of generational poverty in my family. To we have to be ready for a future make it happen, I needed to do something my alone. So as early as possible, we parents and grandparents never did—and that have to build our retirement fund. is to invest. One important lesson I Now, at 23, I do not only make investing learned is to find a knowledgeable a habit, I also found a purpose in sharing my financial adviser who will guide knowledge about its benefits (starting off with you. An adviser can help you my parents, of course). I encourage others with matters as basic as preparing that even though we grew up poor, we still your budget to explaining the have a chance to retire rich if we know how to harder-to-understand investment invest. –Jhoanna Quiton instruments. The other quality that I looked for in a counselor is genuine concern for my welfare My inspiration were and for my children’s as well. After my Feast family a couple of misses, I was blessed in Kuala Lumpur to find two advisers. One is a very and most of all, Bo good friend who has proven she Sanchez. Though has our best interest at heart. The I’ve been hearing other was someone I interviewed stuff and information for an article who gave me such about investment, I good advice. –Lella Santiago only started to invest when I finally worked here in KL and met my Feast friends. They inspired me to serve and be a rich servant. They made me dig deeper as to why I am working abroad—and that is to provide holiday trips and to fulfill the dreams of my parents. Second is to prepare for the college education of my younger sister. Saving money made me forget about my dream to build a charity because I was limiting myself to what I am earning now, and it’s just enough for my family. Now that I've started investing (specifically in the stock market with the help of Truly Rich Club), the huge dream in my heart started to grow again. I know that my charity and personal goals will be possible in the coming years. –Ariane Yani Sarabia

Billionaire investor Warren Buffett said, “Risk comes from not knowing what you are doing.” Investment can be dangerous and unfamiliar, but we can bear its fruit if we take the chance to learn about it and understand it better. Patience, discipline, and commitment will definitely help us attain our financial goals in the future. The question is: Are you willing to invest today for the future that you want?

Kerygma November 2017 33 34 Kerygma November 2017 K-techism

A Clear but Difficult Choice By Dina Pecaña

od or money? Love or wealth? Heavenly Jesus and declined His call to follow Him who is the Way to treasure or worldly possession? For the faithful, eternal life. In Mark 10:22 it says, “At that statement his face the choice is clear but not an easy one to make. fell, and he went away sad, for he had many possessions.” The story of the rich man in Mark 10:17-22 Yes, the rich man’s decision was a foolish one. But the explains this dilemma. He approached Jesus problem here is not his possessions—these were, after all, Gand expressed his desire for eternal life and how he can blessings from God. The problem is that he has become gain this. Have you ever wondered why the man asked attached to his wealth, so much so that he failed to realize Jesus that crucial question? In spite of his good fortune, that he chose worldly treasures that wither and fade over maybe he knew there was more to life than just having the “pearl of great price” (Matthew 13:46). The root of his wealth especially when this is viewed from the perspective problem [of all evils] is the love of money (cf. 1 Timothy 6:10) of eternity? or greed. Jesus reminded the rich man about the The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) states that commandments, to which the man said he faithfully “The Lord grieves over the rich because they find their obeyed all his life. Now comes Jesus’ answer and invitation consolation in the abundance of goods” (2547, Luke 6:24). In to the rich man: “You are lacking in one thing. Go, sell what God alone do we find everything we need, as St. Teresa of you have, and give to [the] poor and you will have treasure Avila wrote in her prayer, “Whoever has God lacks nothing; in heaven; then come, follow me” (v. 21). The rich man was God alone suffices.” Jesus also cautions the rich on how saddened by what he heard and walked away. difficult it is to uproot the problem: “It is easier for a camel to The rich man seems to be a decent person who did pass through [the] eye of needle than for one who is rich to his best to live an upright life. Yet still, he turned away from enter the kingdom of God” (Mark 10:25).

Continued on page 37 Motivate the Workforce. Build Stronger Teams. Improve Company Performance.

Achieve camaraderie and productivity with Kerygma Corporate Trainings. Have our Kerygma preachers and authors motivate your employees through interactive seminars and workshops.

Learn More: Call 725-9999 and look for Karen. E-mail us at [email protected].

www.kerygmabooks.com 36 Kerygma November 2017

KB Corp Seminar AD.indd 1 9/19/17 11:10 AM K-techism (continued from page 35)

But this warning is not only for the rich but for us all. Jesus tells us to be careful not to be attached to material things, for this takes our focus away from what are truly important in life — our relationships with Him and with others. What then is the challenge presented to us by the story of the rich young man? The challenge is for us to call on God and rely on His grace for the determination and strength to detach ourselves from earthly riches. Let us set our priorities straight and live out the two greatest commandments: to love God with our whole mind, heart, soul, and strength, and love our neighbors as we love ourselves. To seek God above all is to find true happiness: “Desire for true happiness frees man from his immoderate attachment to the goods of this world so that he can find his fulfillment in the vision and beatitude of God” (CCC 2548). To help our neighbor especially the poor purifies and strengthens our resolve, for “love for the poor is incompatible with immoderate love of riches or their selfish use” (CCC 2445). Let love and generosity overcome greed. Wealth & Wisdom

Passing on Money Values to Our Children

y husband and I were are such convenient excuses always recommend giving on watching TV together when we see something we don’t the low side in order to practice when he received a text like in our kids, but really it’s frugality and discipline. from our eldest son: still the home that has the most “Hey Pa, just want significant influence on their 2. Do we narrate to our child Mto thank you for being a good formation. stories of our early days of role model, specifically with your Here are some points of struggle with joy or sadness? money values. You showed us reflection that can help us raise Children learn a lot from stories the balance of enjoying the good our children to have the money and they like our childhood things in life at the right time values we aspire them to have: stories. Do you tell them how and in the right amount. It stems Fausto By Rose Fres you used to be happy with back from you buying Mama's 1. How much is my child’s simpler things in life or do you engagement ring despite it being allowance? There are two picture yourself as a victim, less than 1 carat, spending for your schools of thought about just because you had less own wedding, up to when you giving allowance to children. material things? These stories finally bought your dream car and One is that there should be have subtle but very significant enjoy the finer things in life. It gives no allowance because they impact on how our children will me a sense of comfort that guides should earn it. The other view and value material things. me in my day-to-day decisions.” is that there should be a I saw my husband’s face regular amount with which 3. how is my child’s self- light up with a smile of joy and he can practice how to confidence and self-esteem? contentment. And he has all the budget. I subscribe to the According to a top company’s reasons to be happy. Indeed a latter primarily because chief marketing officer, good father is someone a son I learned to be a saver looks up to no matter how tall since kindergarten the latter gets. This underscores because of my weekly the importance of what parents allowance. Should do because our children will not you decide to do what we tell them to do, but give regular what they see us do. Sometimes allowance, be outside influences like traditional clear on what and social media, school items are environment, peer pressure, etc. included in it. I

38 Kerygma November 2017 millennials only value 4. What kind of stuff do I give whims of the child. By doing so, the necessary things that are “post-able.” my child? Are they usually hunger that results in striving hard was It's quite alarming to hear signature items? Check this inadvertently eliminated. this and it may contribute out. Chances are when you to the growing materialism shop for your favorite brand, 7. have I deliberately helped my teenager and the need to “keep up you end up buying one for find his purpose in life? Because our kids with the Joneses” among your child. Although it’s OK are way too advanced in accumulating the youth. But the secret is to do this once in a while knowledge and are exposed to all the still in the healthy sense of without sacrificing your possibilities, it’s sometimes daunting for self. Sure, it’s cool to have needs, bear in mind that you them to find their place under the sun. It’s those stuff, but if your child may be setting up your child’s not as simple as “study hard, find a good job, feels OK with herself, she standards too high too soon. raise your family then give back to society” will not bug you to buy anymore. They want things to happen all at those expensive stuff just 5. Have I taught my child the the same time now while they have not even so she can post something other uses of money? It’s reached maturity. There is a high incidence of on her Instagram. Help your a good idea to teach your depression that sometimes leads to suicide child find what she’s good young child early on that because of this confusion and helplessness. at and hone these talents so money is not only utilized Some kids try to find solace in the material that she will feel sufficient or enjoyed via spending but things. And when they find out that there’s and worthy with or without also through investing. Try to emptiness at the end of acquiring those stuff, the cool stuff. explain as simply as possible they give up. This is prevalent in well-off what else they can do with families. (I suggest you read the book written 4. do I share the joy of money. One of the tools that by another mother of three boys entitled, The buying the finer things helped us instill the discipline Price of Privilege: How Parental Pressure and in life with my children of investing in the boys is the Material Advantage Are Creating a Generation with stories? My husband balance sheet. Since money of Disconnected and Unhappy Kids to avoid likes telling our boys about is an abstract concept, it getting your child in this situation.) a pair of rubber shoes that was easier for them to see he really wanted back in the utility of (or pleasure 7. How am I with money now? Our children the day but was considered derived from) money when are way too sensitive if something’s bothering too much for a young kid. they could see their assets us, no matter how much we try to hide it. Then with a drumroll, he growing. Giving is another A lot of parents, in their hope to spare their would say, “And when I use of money and this will children from sadness, will not admit if there’s could afford to buy dozens help them feel even more a financial problem. It is always better to tell of pairs of it, I did! It’s so abundant. the truth. Say it as a matter of fact, a temporary much sweeter to finally situation that you, as a family, can all work have it after the wait.” 6. Have I given everything together to solve. Do not overdramatize and What a master of delaying to my child that I have be careful not to instill unnecessary shame gratification! It’s the third practically eliminated all on being in a financial difficulty. Again, it is basic law of money in my possible hunger in him, a temporary state that should be dealt with book, The Retelling of The such that there’s nothing using the cooperation of each family member. Richest Man in Babylon, more to aspire for? Again, that even your toddler can something parents must I hope the above points help you raise your understand. (Also available watch out for. Millennials children to have the money values to live a in Filipino version.) are usually branded the successful, happy, and meaningful life. Cheers to "entitled generation" and high and values-laden FQ! sorry to say, this is primarily because of their over-giving Rose Fres Fausto was an investment banker turned full-time parents who may belong homemaker and now a writer, speaker, Gallup Certified Strengths Coach and Behavioral Economist. She wrote bestsellers Raising to the Baby Boomers or Pinoy Boys and The Retelling of The Richest Man in Babylon Gen X. Studies show that (English and Filipino versions). She has a weekly column in because of the proliferation PhilStar.com and contributes to other magazines. She is the of broken homes, parents try grand prize winner of the first Sinag Financial Literacy Digital Journalism Awards. Follow her on FB and YouTube as FQ Mom, to overcompensate for the and on IG and Twitter as theFQMom. Visit her website FQMom. absence of one parent that com or e-mail [email protected] or [email protected]. they end up giving in to all the

Kerygma November 2017 39 40 • • love-based healthcare system Principles of anempowering healthcare system: of anempowering love-based brief overview of the vision divine magnificence (oneness). people’s of their sense own beings (wholeness), and bolster the divine design of human people, bring back the glory of built by the people and for the self-health empowerment, system of self-health education, ultimate healthcare system: a join usinthisquest towards the originate. that allthe problems of society level because it isat thislevel to focus on the consciousness to people and whose strategy is health-empowering education whose mission isto spread nonstock organization (NGO) movement. It isanonprofit, wholeness and oneness • • healthcare system empowering love-based The starting point of an • • • F alth & H

e Kerygma the body. millions of cells composing of organs but at the level of determined, not at the level that health are and disease on prevention and meLet share to you a I would like to invite you to E importance. for people isof utmost N under public control. M p Eff H H everyone. affordable, and doable for H veryone willunderstand rimary healthcare. atural health education ealth isahuman right. ealth issafe for everyone. ealth isunderstandable, edical research hasto be ective healthcare focuses Movement isaglobal Health Empowerment is close to my heart. Self about amovement that riends, let me tell you November 2017 H ome • • • empowerment more about self-health The of Goals Self- • • H E Empowering HealthcareSystem Inspiring theManifestationofan

mpowerment Movement (S o w you can learn 2. hospital. Let’s call it “housepital." empowerment. Your house isyour become aspace for self-health empowering our self-health community and attend medicine. and reduce the need for expensive health, extend life expectancy, healthcarebased willimprove P and eradication of diseases. system isthe natural prevention Th the people. of tomorrow who are on the side of become the wholly loving doctors enlightened patients of today will Th E Or 1.

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By Dr. Romy Paredes Made Incredibly Simple, available at www. Dr. Romy Paredes wrote Health the book, for humans. inner nature isthere true liberation source of well-being iswithin. infrastructure for well-being, but the and administrations can provide ultimate liberation. being, for their own joy, and their one isresponsible for their own well- takes it inhisor her own hands. Each to happen unless each individual sciences develop, health isnot going we build, how much medical greatness of our beings. of change. We can manifest the our smallripples become waves make things happen. We can make My dear friends, together we can action, not acompulsive one) A Callto Action (aconscious • • kerygmabooks.com.

Only intaking charge of our Governments, corporations, No matter how many hospitals shem.ph. L through different media. books and other publications R seminars. og on to our website www. ead self-health empowering SUBSCRIBE KERYGMA MISSION PARTNER 2017 NOW! 27th ANNIVERSARY RAFFLE PROMO HOLY LAND pILgRImAgE Subscribe to Kerygma magazine and get a chance to win exciting prizes this 2017! 1. Subscribe to Kerygma from April 1, 2017 to December 31, 2017. 2. To subscribe, tear off the subscription form from the magazine that will serve as your raffle coupon. Fill out with your complete name, address, telephone number, Entries received from April 1, 2017 until December 31, 2017 qualify for the e-mail address, mode of payment, affix signature, and mail to or drop at: draw. There will be 1 winner of trip to Holy Land Pilgrimage. A presence of DTI representative will be at grand draw on January 14, 2018, Sunday, 11:45AM at The Shepherd’s Voice Publications Inc., #60 Chicago St. Cubao Quezon City Feast Bay Area, Vicente Sotto Street, Pasay City. See web-based ads, posters and print ads for details. Deadline of submission of Raffle draw date, Prize No. of entries date, time and venue time and venue Winners 2. Holy Land Pilgrimage Prize inclusions: Round-trip Airfare from NAIA to Lisbon Airport – Lisbon Airport to NAIA, meals on full board basis, hotel accommodation Minor draw October 13, 2017, October 27, 2017, (5) Kerygma 1 for 10 days and 9 nights with breakfast. Exclusive of travel tax. Friday, 3pm Friday, 3pm Conference #60 Chicago #60 Chicago Street, 2017 VIP Minor Prize: 1 winner of Five (5) Kerygma Conference VIP Tickets to be held at SMX Street, Cubao, QC Cubao, QC Tickets Convention Center , Grand draw December 31, January 14, 2018, Trip to 1 1. All Regular Silver KMP, Gold KMP, and Platinum KMP subscribers qualify for the (5) 2017, Sunday, Sunday, 11:45 pm Holy Land Kerygma Conference VIP Ticket. 6pm The Feast Bay Area, Pilgrimage a. Regular KMP- P800.00: 1 Raffle entry The Feast Bay Vicente Sotto Street, b. Silver KMP- P2,500.00: 3 Raffle entries Inspiring the Manifestation of an Area, Vicente Pasay City c. Gold KMP- P5,500.00: 6 Raffle entries Sotto Street, d. Platinum KMP- P10,000.00: 10 Raffle entries Pasay City 2. Entries received from April 1, 2017 to October 13, 2017 qualify for the draw of Five Empowering Healthcare System (5) Kerygma Conference VIP Tickets. A DTI representative will be at grand draw on Grand Prize: 1 Winner of Holy Land Pilgrimage October 27, 2017 (Friday) at #60 Chicago St. Cubao Quezon City, 3:00pm. 1. All Regular, Silver KMP, Gold KMP, and Platinum KMP subscribers qualify for the 3. Prize inclusions: 1 winner of Five (5) Kerygma Conference VIP Tickets reserved Holy Land Pilgrimage raffle draw. seating in all classes and plenary talks and a limited edition conference t-shirt. a. Regular KMP- P800.00: 1 Raffle entry 4. Kerygma Conference 2017 is on November 23-26, 2017 at the SMX Convention b. Silver KMP- P2,500.00: 3 Raffle entries Center. c. Gold KMP- P5,500.00: 6 Raffle entries d. Platinum KMP- P10,000.00: 10 Raffle entries Control No. ______Per DTI FTEB Permit No. 2747, Series of 2017.

q REGULAR 1 YEAR SUBS: P800.00 FOR PROVINCIAL REGULAR SUBSCRIPTIONS plus 400/yr q INTERNATIONAL 1 YR SUBS: P 3, 000.00 q Option 1: Snail Mail- Sent monthly via Post Office unregistered mail. q KMP SILVER 1 YEAR SUBS: P 2, 500 with FREE planner q Option 2: Courier- Sent every 2 issues. q KMP GOLD 1 YEAR SUBS: P 5, 500 with FREE LOJ Coffee Table Book q KMP PLATINUM 1 YEAR: P10, 000 with FREE KMP Mercy Package Please fill out customer information correctly to ensure accurate delivery.

Subscriber’s Name Recipient’s Name (for Gift Subscription

Mailing Address

Zip Code Landline No.: Start of Subscription Cell No.: Email Address:

Payment Options: q Cash q Credit Card: Signature: ______

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Bank deposit thru Shepherd’s Voice Publications Inc. BDO S/A No. 397-000070-4, BPI S/A No. 0123-4832-94, MBTC S/A No. 3-2655-0807-4 (please enclose bank-validated deposit slip). Check/PMO payable to: Shepherd’s Voice Publications Inc. Contact Sarah Discutido, 725-9999 loc 104, 09228147031. Email: [email protected] THIS SERVES AS A RAFFLE COUPON Mail to Shepherd’s Voice Publications Inc c/o Holy Land Raffle Promo, #60 Chicago St. Cubao Quezon City

KMP 2017 Holy Land Promo (short form).indd 1 5/11/17 10:14 AM SUBSCRIBE KERYGMA MISSION PARTNER 2017 NOW! 27th ANNIVERSARY RAFFLE PROMO HOLY LAND pILgRImAgE Subscribe to Kerygma magazine and get a chance to win exciting prizes this 2017!

1. Subscribe to Kerygma from April 1, 2017 to December 31, 2017. 2. To subscribe, tear off the subscription form from the magazine that will serve as your raffle coupon, fill out with your complete name, address, telephone number, e-mail address, mode of payment, affix signature, and mail to or drop at: Shepherds Voice Publications Inc., #60 Chicago St. Cubao, Quezon City

Deadline of submission of Raffle draw date, Prize No. of entries date, time and venue time and venue Winners

Minor draw October 13, October 27, 2017, (5) Kerygma 1 2017, Friday, Friday, 3pm Conference 3pm #60 Chicago Street, 2017 VIP #60 Chicago Cubao, QC Tickets Street, Cubao, QC Grand draw December 31, January 14, 2018, Trip to 1 2017, Sunday, Sunday, 11:45am Holy Land 2. Holy Land Pilgrimage Prize inclusions: Round-trip Airfare from NAIA to Lisbon 6pm The Feast Bay Pilgrimage Airport – Lisbon Airport to NAIA, meals on full board basis, hotel accommodation The Feast Bay Area, Vicente Sotto for 10 days and 9 nights with breakfast. Exclusive of travel tax. Area, Vicente Street, Pasay City Sotto Street, Minor Prize: 1 winner of Five (5) Kerygma Conference VIP Tickets to be held at SMX Pasay City Convention Center

Grand Prize: 1 Winner of Holy Land Pilgrimage 1. All Regular, Silver KMP, Gold KMP, and Platinum KMP subscribers qualify for the (5) Kerygma Conference VIP Ticket. 1. All Regular, Silver KMP, Gold KMP, and Platinum KMP subscribers qualify for the a. Regular KMP- P800.00: 1 Raffle entry Holy Land Pilgrimage raffle draw. b. Silver KMP- P2,500.00: 3 Raffle entries a. Regular KMP- P800.00: 1 Raffle entry c. Gold KMP- P5,500.00: 6 Raffle entries b. Silver KMP- P2,500.00: 3 Raffle entries d. Platinum KMP- P10,000.00: 10 Raffle entries c. Gold KMP- P5,500.00: 6 Raffle entries d. Platinum KMP- P10,000.00: 10 Raffle entries 2. Entries received from April 1, 2017 to October 13, 2017 qualify for the draw of Five (5) Kerygma Conference VIP Tickets. A DTI representative will be at the grand draw Entries received from April 1, 2017 until December 31, 2017 qualify for the draw. on October 27, 2017 (Friday) at #60 Chicago St. Cubao Quezon City, 3:00pm. There will be 1 winner of trip to Holy Land Pilgrimage. A DTI representative will be 3. Prize inclusions: 1 winner of Five (5) Kerygma Conference VIP Tickets reserved at the grand draw on January 14, 2018, Sunday, 11:45AM at The Feast Bay Area, seating in all classes and plenary talks and a limited edition conference T-shirt. Vicente Sotto Street, Pasay City. 4. Kerygma Conference 2017 is on November 23-26, 2017 at the SMX Convention Center.

Guidelines: 11.There will be a DTI representative to witness the draws on October 27, 2017 3pm 1. Lucky winner will be drawn. A participant can only win once. Subscriber who won (Friday) and January 14, 2018, 11:45am (Sunday). the minor prize is not eligible on the grand draw. Non-winning entries after the 12.For GMA winners, they can claim their minor or grand prize at #60 Chicago Street, minor draw can still win the grand prize. Cubao, Quezon City; For Provincial winner of minor prize, he/she can claim the 2. A notification letter via registered mail will be sent to winners for confirmation. KCON2017 tickets upon agreement between SVP and his/her preferred method of Instructions on where to claim the prize will be given in detail in the letter via transaction. registered mail. For GMA and provincial winners, the sponsor will not cover the transportation fee going to the travel agency and NAIA upon departure for Per DTI FTEB Permit No. 2747, Series of 2017. Pilgrimage. SVP Sales staff will coordinate and instruct the grand prize winner all the necessary details and inclusions of the trip to Holy Land before endorsing to THERE’S MORE! sponsor travel agency. Kerygma Mission Partner Mercy Package 3. The winner of the trip to Holy Land Pilgrimage will secure his/her own passport. 4. Prizes are transferrable but not convertible to cash. 1. Platinum Kerygma Mission Partners (donation of P10,000.00 and above) are 5. The winner of the trip to Holy Land Pilgrimage shall shoulder all the taxes and automatically entitled to a sponsored Breakfast Buffet with Father Bob McConaghy. documentations related to the trip, and the 20 percent tax for prizes exceeding 2. KMP Mercy Package includes a Kerygma Books package worth P500.00, The P10,000. Light of Jesus Coffee Table Book, a sponsored Breakfast Buffet with Father Bob 6. Validity of international trips is within 6 months from issuance. McConaghy. 7. Prizes must be claimed with in 60 days from receipt of notification. 3. The sponsored breakfast schedule will depend on the availability of Father Bob 8. Prizes unclaimed will be forfeited in favor of SVP with prior DTI approval. McConaghy. a.Winners shall claim their prizes at the Shepherd’s Voice office at 60 Chicago St., 4. Call 725-9999 for more details. Cubao, Quezon City. Winners must present the notification letter, official receipt of subscription, claim stub with control number and valid ID with photo (e.g. CONTROL MEASURES: driver’s license, Company ID or passport). • Sealed drop boxes shall be collected one day after the deadline for dropping of b.Winners may send a representative on their behalf provided they present a entries and brought to #60 Chicago St. Cubao, Quezon City for safekeeping under letter of authorization from the winner, proper identification / any valid ID with the custody of Kristine Mutuc, Marketing Manager, and a DTI representative will photo (e.g. driver’s license, Company ID or passport), letter sent by SVP and be invited in the opening of dropboxes and drawing of winners. Raffle coupon with official receipt of subscription payment and claim stub with control number. complete name, address, contact no., signature is/are valid. 9. The promo organizer’s decision is final with the concurrence of DTI representative. • Non-winning entries will be sealed and signed by the sponsor and by a DTI 10.All SVP employees are not eligible to join the raffle promo including their relatives representative. up to the 2nd degree of consanguinity or affinity.

KMP 2017 Holy Land Promo (Mechanics).indd 1 5/3/17 10:30 AM Seasons

Sailing through the Waves of Liquidity

t’s officially been two years begging, and other times I’d be splurging. paying for their credit card bills, since I decided to take that I’m exaggerating, but the tides were real. taxes, SSS, PAG-IBIG Fund, and the leap of faith and start my The challenge was how to survive the like, but hesitate allocating anything own business—Brand’eM tides without knowing what the moon to their savings. It’s something that (brand review and audit would look like. How then can I still still makes me wonder up to this Iconsultancy). With three years guarantee that I would save and invest day. of professional marketing without significantly getting from my I use a fixed percentage because experience under my belt, I savings? it becomes easier for me to survive set a path where I could use In the business of brand consultancy, the tides. Regardless of how high or

my time doing things I believe one has to be comfortable with ambiguity. By Martin Fausto low revenue is, there is a guarantee to be more meaningful—very We sail through the waves relying on that I am saving and investing an millennial of me. the wind, stars, and sea. While we’ve amount. Any amount will do as long Whenever I tell this story mapped out the destination, the “how” is as there is. In 2015, I started with a to relatives, friends, and something we take and try to figure out 30 percent savings and investment colleagues, I would see the day by day. In order to stay afloat, a good rate. Today, I have gotten more used wonder in their smiles. This is tip is to rely on consistency. I rely on the to the tides that my fixed savings paired with a slight worry as power of percentage. and investment percentage has to how a 20-plus-year-old can Each time I receive a check payment, increased. sustain this financially. Apart I automatically and deliberately multiply To young entrepreneurs out from the struggle of battling a fixed percentage I allocate to my savings there, believe me when I say it’s insecurities not working in a and investment. This step is what you call possible. It’s possible to still save steady and secure corporate “paying yourself first.” I multiply a fixed and invest for personal use without set-up, there is the challenge percentage on the business’ gross income, giving everything back to the of liquidity. Let’s face it: Cash is and I treat the remaining amount as business. Much like a healthier diet king. Money is a commodity we my monthly budget. I have to or exercise regimen, we will surely need to live, pursue our dreams, “pay myself first” for my future have instances where cheat days and do more good around our because if I don’t, no one will. are just too good not to be observed. community. The said remaining amount The more important thing is that Before I got into the groove should be enough to fund all we remind ourselves to get back on of running Brand’eM, I already other expenses — business and track, go forward to our destination expected that income would be personal. If the amount is too no matter how low or high the tides erratic. low, then I have to lessen my are. And boy was I shookt. personal expenses. I notice There were times I’d be that people easily accept E-mail Martin at martinjosephfausto@ gmail.com.

Kerygma November 2017 43 Do You Dread Mondays? Are you in need of constant motivation?

Often, we lack the drive and consistency to attain our dreams. Why? Our energies are sapped by worries, depression, regret, laziness, and confusion. We may find ourselves in constant stress at work and feel trapped in an endless cycle of coping with bills to be paid.

The Fired Up Life is a vision of a life lived with passion!

God has willed for us to “have life and have it more abundantly” ( John 10:10). This book will equip you to have the power to conquer the roadblocks that hinder you from achieving success and fullness of life.

By reading this book and applying what you’ll learn, you will discover your:

• Authentic Passion: Have Clarity of Purpose and Direction • Authentic Growth: Have Confidence and Increase Your Personal Value • Authentic Success: Be Fulfilled through Service

Specifically, you will learn:

• How to Find Your God-given Passion and Purpose • How to Create a Personal Mission and Vision Statement • How to Master Your Unique Gift • How to Make a Blueprint for Your Dreams • How to Keep Your Passion Burning • How to Scale Up Your Impact • How to Lead with Passion

These are just a few examples. There’s so much more to explore inside! The goal of this book is to help you become a highly motivated and successful person using the principles of our Christian faith.

“Be who God meant you to be and you will set the world on fire!” — St. Catherine of Siena

For orders, call 725-9999 local 101-108 or log on to www.kerygmabooks.com

Fired Up Life AD.indd 1 9/19/17 10:16 AM Do You Dread Mondays? K Preacher Are you in need of constant motivation?

Often, we lack the drive and consistency to attain our dreams. Why? Our energies are sapped by worries, depression, regret, laziness, and confusion. We may find ourselves in constant stress at work and feel trapped in an endless cycle of coping with bills to be paid.

The Fired Up Life is a vision of a life lived with passion!

God has willed for us to “have life and have it more abundantly” ( John 10:10). This book will equip you to have the power to conquer the roadblocks that hinder you from achieving success and fullness of life.

By reading this book and applying what you’ll learn, you will discover your:

• Authentic Passion: Have Clarity of Purpose and Direction • Authentic Growth: Have Confidence and Increase Your Personal Value • Authentic Success: Be Fulfilled through Service Things Will Never Be the Same Again Specifically, you will learn: often say it, and I’ll continue to jolt down my spine when I heard, same again” after the loss of a beloved. • How to Find Your God-given Passion and Purpose say it: One of the best gifts we “We pray for the soul of ROBERTO Yet despite the fact that things • How to Create a Personal Mission and Vision Statement give to the people we serve is CABRILLAS… SR.” will never be the same again, the • How to Master Your Unique Gift honesty. It was a powerful blend of potent experience brought out in me a fresh Proclaimers of the Word, emotional surges… dose of strength and courage to face • How to Make a Blueprint for Your Dreams Ilike me, are pressured inwardly It was the simultaneous feeling of: the new challenges in life. • How to Keep Your Passion Burning and outwardly to speak and share – sudden shock, hearing “my” soul Change has two facets: the better • How to Scale Up Your Impact only victorious stories and tales. is being prayed for; and the worse. • How to Lead with Passion Wrong! – relieving gratitude that the Choose the first. Strength is there. Leaders, no matter how congregation offered Mass for Tatay’s By Obet Cabrillas As I turn 45 this month, I want to strong, are subject to hurt. soul; tell Tatay, “Tatay, I promise you: You will These are just a few examples. There’s so much more to explore inside! The goal of this book is to help you become a Proclaimers, no matter how – appalling yet miraculously continue to live because I will continue highly motivated and successful person using the principles of our Christian faith. faithful, are subject to wounds. comforting feeling that one day will to live out the life values and principles In fact, I can go on to declare come; and, you have invested in my heart. You will “Be who God meant you to be and you will set the world on fire!” — St. Catherine of Siena that, “If you ain’t bleeding, you ain’t – the same congregation will pray always be remembered. You will always leading!” for my soul too. live and love through me. I love you with I bleed. I realized something important in the love of the Lord.” Though I’m managing, I still mourning and in getting wounded. To all the readers who still have bleed. My family and I are always your parents, never miss a day All forces of evil want me saddened by the thought and the without hugging them, serving them, stuck; yet I choose to move on. truth that we lost the pillar of the and saying the three most important I move on, bleeding. family, our Tatay. words: Thank you, I’m sorry, and I love My father, Tatay, joined our Yet amazingly, the you. Creator on Father’s Day 2017. very same thoughts Things will never be the same One Sunday Mass at The Feast and truths about our again. Because hope in the Lord will Valle Verde, I cried despite my Tatay's goodness was make you better, brighter, bolder. brave front. enough comfort and The priest mentioned the encouragement for us Obet, fondly called Daddy O by the youth, is the Feast builder of Feast Valle Verde. He is also the name of my Tatay. It so happened to move on and get overseer of Feast Asia. E-mail him at obetcab@ that my father’s name is also my better in life. There’s yahoo.com. name. Tatay is “Sr.” and I am his “Jr.” no such thing as There was a thunderbolt-like- “things will be the For orders, call 725-9999 local 101-108 or log on to www.kerygmabooks.com Kerygma November 2017 45

Fired Up Life AD.indd 1 9/19/17 10:16 AM Join Me in a “Receive Your Miracle” 10-Day Pilgrimage to the Holy Land

February 12 to 21, 2018 Special Bonus: You’ll Also Join a Feast Right in the Old City of Jerusalem!

I know a lot of people who travel often. I know a lot of people who take lots of holidays and vacations in different parts of the world—Hong Kong, Bangkok, US, Europe —but they never consider taking a holy pilgrimage to Israel. Friend, why not take a trip to the Holy Land and experience profound spiritual blessing? I’m leading a holy pilgrimage to Israel from February 12 to 21, 2018. And I’d love for you to join me. You can walk where Jesus walked. We’ll go to Calvary, where Jesus was crucified; Bethlehem, where Jesus was born; and Galilee, where Jesus preached—and so many other incredible places. The first time I was in Israel was when I was 16 years old. Since then, I’ve gone back over and over again. It’s always a joy to see the actual places that you read about in the Bible. It’s like the Bible coming alive—in technicolor—before your very eyes. I’ll be bringing with me a priest friend. He’ll celebrate Mass with us every day. I’ll also be bringing with me my fellow leaders. It’ll be a ball! We’ll have lots of fun, I can assure you. Even now, I’m praying for all those who’ll go with me (I call them pilgrims). May God give my pilgrims a deeper spiritual connection! May the Lord inspire my pilgrims to new directions in their lives. May my pilgrims discover their mission and embrace it more fully through this pilgrimage. I see a pilgrimage as a long holy retreat. Except that instead of staying in one place, we’re constantly moving. We’re moving towards God. If you want to join me and be my pilgrim, e-mail Beckie at beaconlightevents+pilgrimage@gmail. com now. Once the details of the pilgrimage are set, we’ll e-mail the details to you. See you soon!

May your dreams come true,

Bo Sanchez

PS. Muslims go to Mecca at least once in their lifetime. I think Christians can take a pilgrimage once in their lifetime too. I’m personally inviting you to join my pilgrimage to Israel on February 12, 2018. For details, e-mail Beckie at [email protected] now.

PS2. Why Do I Call It “Receive Your Miracle” Pilgrimage? Because that’s my earnest prayer for you— that as you seek God in the pilgrimage, your heart will open wider to receive His great miracle for your life. For details, e-mail Beckie at [email protected] now.

10 Day Holy Land Pilgrimage Ad 2018 .indd 1 9/20/17 1:31 PM O ne Last Story

fter working compulsion, for God loves a for eight cheerful giver" ( 2 Corinthians years in one 9:7). The verse struck me. I company wasn't really a tithe-giver, but in Ortigas, I the message compelled me Atransferred to a new one to give in spite of my financial in Makati in 2011. During situation. my first week there, I was One love offering adjusting with my new experience led me to an environment. This was abundant life I never thought when I found out about possible. The Feast Makati in Asian Institue of Management. An Overflow of Blessings I didn't know that I Three years later, I learned was up to a life-changing how to equally divide my experience. tithes into three: I give one part to the parish, another Living in Debt part to my other Catholic The first Thursday I community, and I drop the attended, it was the last part to the love offering first talk of the series basket during The Feast. I was "Overflow," which is about amazed that I am able to give financial management. It despite my humongous debts was a very timely topic then. for me since I was trying I also moved from Makati to handle my finances to Ortigas and worked as a anew—with large debts in human resource manager. I tow—along with my new also joined The Feast Ortigas. job. I became part of a training Before transferring, consultancy company and I worked my way up the was able to put up my own corporate ladder in my printing business. On top of previous company. I got all those blessings, I had paid promoted several times. off all of my debts—finally. But my expenses got But the Lord did not stop promoted faster than my pouring down His graces on career. I ended up having me. debts which drove me to Today, I am already transfer work so I can get employed as a deputy general better pay. manager. It's such a big leap! I was 29 years old I also now have my own then with a debt of a little training and management more than half a million F illed, Full, consultancy company while pesos and only relied on still running my printing my salary to pay them. business. God is good! I During the talk, the and continue to serve at The Feast preacher discussed a Ortigas to thank Him for all Bible verse written by Overflowing His provisions. Paul. He said, "Each of Once upon a time, I didn't you should give what By Eco Castro know my way out of my you have decided in debts, but the Lord taught me Bull's eye. After years of struggling your heart to give, not financially, Eco is finally able to hit how to give. Surprisingly, He reluctantly or under his goals and give more than what has blessed me more than he thought he could do before. I asked for—filled, full, and overflowing..

Kerygma November 2017 47 Point of Contact

I Pray That You Receive Your Miracles In Jesus’ Name!

I pray that God lift your trials, heal your diseases, bless your problems, and direct you to the path He wants you to take. I pray that God remove your fears and give you the courage to surrender your burdens to Him. So place your hand over my hand, and let's pray with trust, together with our prayer team of intercessors praying for you right now…

This page is our Point of Contact, our spiritual connection. Say after me…

In the Name of the Father, of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Lord, I surrender to You my worries and anxieties. I surrender to You my needs, my problems, my trials. I place them all in Your big hands. And I open myself to all that You want to give to me. On this day, I say yes to Your love, to Your blessings, to Your healing, to Your miracles. And Lord, specifically, I ask for the following miracles for my life... I believe that You answer my prayer in the best way possible! And I thank You in advance for the perfect answers to my prayers. I also ask for the special intercession of Mama Mary. I pray all this in the Name of the Father, of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.

SPECIAL INTENTION FOR THIS MONTH:

Father, thank You for all of Your provisions. Thank You for giving us opportunities to E-mail your prayer requests to me learn and prosper. Thank You for seeing us through our every need. at bosanchez@kerygmafamily. Bless the works of our hands, Lord. Grant us wisdom as we work, strength as com or write to me at Shepherd’s we persevere, and humility as we grow in abundance. May we be grounded on the Voice Publications, #60 Chicago St., Cubao, Quezon City, values You have taught us as we strive to live an abundant life. Philippines 1109. Praying for you,

48 Kerygma November 2017