THE HERALD Newsletter of Christ the King Parish Greenmeadows Avenue, Quezon City (Diocese of Cubao, Philippines) July-September 2018 Goodbye, Fr. Serge Diocese Breaks Ground C T K S t o p ov e r f o r and Fr. Ricky on Casa de Silencio Philippine Tour of Fr. Serge Maniba and Fr. Ricky Montañez Padre Pio Relics celebrated their last CTK Eucharistic The sacred relics of San Pio of celebration last July 2, Monday, at the Pietrelcina, more known to Filipinos as Divine Mercy Chapel, before they left for Padre Pio, were viewed by thousands their UP Holy Sacri ice Parish last September 7 Friday, at the CTK main reassignment to join Fr. Bong Tupino. church, right after the evening mass. The arrival of the relics was brought on by the invitation extended by the Volontariato di San Pio in Manila to Padre Answering the long-voiced call for a GianMaria DiGiorgio of retirement home to house aging and the St. Pio’s retired members of the clergy, the Sanctuary in Roman Catholic Diocese of Cubao, headed by Bishop Honesto F. Ongtioco San Giovanni DD, inally broke ground last Monday, Rotondo in Italy, where August 27. The long-wished-for the remains retirement home for retired and sick are kept. priests is located in Barangay Santol near Araneta Avenue, in the block previously Padre donated to the archdiocese by the DiGiogio had Araneta family. The groundbreaking accepted the continued on page 27 continued on page 11 What’s Inside Diocese Launches ‣ Goodbye to Fr. Serge and Fr. Ricky ...... 1 ‣ Diocese Breaks Ground on Casa de Silencio . . . . 1 Eight-Point Agenda ‣ CTK Stopover for Tour of Padre Pio Relics . . . . . 1 ‣ Diocese Launches Eight-Point Agenda ...... 1 for 2018-2025 ‣ Message from Our Parish Priest ...... 2 ‣ Fr. Steve Zabala’s First CTK Mass & Fellowship . . 3 ‣ CTK PPC Bids Adieu to Fr. Arvie Bello ...... 6 ‣ 2 Page Primer: Diocese Priority Agenda ...... 9 ‣ Fr. Bong Delivers Farewell Forma on Talk . . . . 13 ‣ ABCs of Spiritual Warfare ...... 14 ‣ Eleven New EMHCs Commissioned...... 15 ‣ LeComs Hold August General Assembly . . . . . 16 ‣ New LeComs Commissioned ...... 17 ‣ Renewal Seminars for Liturgical Ministers . . . . 17 The mass, co-celebrated with Bishop ‣ Diocese Holds First Youth Forum ...... 17 Raul Martirez, Msgr. Antonio Mortillero ‣ Vicariate Youth Ministry Planning ...... 18 and incoming priest Fr. Giovanni ‘Jojo’ ‣ OLPH Vicariate Youth Ministry Cake Raffle . . . . 18 Gatdula, was also a thanksgiving mass for ‣ CTK’s Rediscovering Our Catholic Faith Series . . 19 the two priests. Both priests gave short ‣ Cateche cal Ministry Gathers More Volunteers . 20 from-the-heart talks at the end of the ‣ Youth Ministry’s Day of Sacraments ...... 21 mass. Sensing the sadness of the ‣ Seniors Encouraged to Look Good, Feel Good . . 22 parishioners at seeing them leave, Fr. ‣ Dry Run for BEC at Greenmeadows 1 ...... 23 Serge said, ‘UP is very close by so I still ‣ BEC Libis Meets with Fr. Steve ...... 23 expect to see most of you’. ‣ Meet and Greet the New PPC Members . . . . . 23 ‣ St. Igna us Celebrates and Reaches Out . . . . . 24 ‣ CTK’s CFM Holds General Assembly ...... 24 Fr. Serge had been a regular guest priest ‣ Life in the Spirit Weekend ...... 24 at Christ the King Parish Greenmeadows ‣ LOC Starts 2nd Housekeeping Livelihood . . . . . 25 since July 11, 2016, or two years ago. He ‣ LOC Elects New Officers ...... 25 had been a diocesan priest at the Diocese ‣ Ladies of Charity Resumes Feeding Program . . . 25 of San Jose, Antique, the same province ‣ Welcoming Fr. Jojo to the CTK Fold ...... 26 ‣ Coffee A er Church Snapshots ...... 28 continued on page 5 continued on page 8 Message From Evangelization of Our Parish Priest the Neighborhood by Rev. Fr. Steven C. Zabala next year. Parishes, just like any other Animating the parish can mean many organizations, need to have a vision and things, including: deepening the faith life direction for all their plans and activities. of the community; establishing deeper fellowship among the parishioners; and Luckily, our Diocese, on its 15th enhancing their active participation in anniversary, last August 28, launched the the life of the parish. Diocese of Cubao Priority Agenda for 2018 to 2025. There are various ways to achieve this. The different ministries can provide The parishes are scheduled to good and meaningful services, programs simultaneously do serious planning and activities for the parishioners: sessions next year (summer time) to churchgoers experiencing a beautiful come up with objectives, goals and liturgy when they come for Sunday action plans to implement these Priority masses; formation sessions about the Agenda in their communities. Bible and the teachings of the Church; or renewal programs that enhance one’s Admittedly, it might be too soon to relationship with God and fellow include these Priority Agenda in this believers. year’s planning process, but it would be Most activities in the parishes happen in In my irst meeting with the Parish good if the planners can already be the “center” or in the parish grounds, Pastoral Council last June 16, the aware of them and incorporate what where people come to the church for members introduced themselves and they can into their plans. Sunday masses and attend meetings, their ministries or groups to which they formation and fellowship sessions. belong. Sis. Lulay dela Cruz, stood up to The following are the eight Priority However, the parish is not only the one introduce herself and her village, and to agenda of the Diocese: in the “center”. If we believe that the the group’s surprise, unfolded a Church is the People of God, how do we tarpaulin with a caption, “Tuloy po kayo 1. Integra ng Families in the Life of the Church animate the parish at the level of people? sa aming mun ng tahanan, from the 2. Anima ng Parish Life happy St. Igna us Village Family!” Some 3. Developing Effec ve, Commi ed, and The greater challenge therefore is how teasing and shouting followed as the Renewed Witnesses of the Catholic Faith to grow the faith when people leave the group burst into laughter! 4. Upholding Human Dignity and Integrity of church grounds (the center) and go back Crea on to their neighborhoods, where the “Tuloy po kayo” pretty much summarizes 5. Engaging the Youth people are. The only ones living in the the reception I received during my irst 6. Molding Shepherds a er the Heart of Jesus parish grounds are the priests; few months in CTK. 7. Maximizing New Media for Evangeliza on parishioners are there in their own 8. Embracing Stewardship as a Way of Life homes with their own families. How I would encounter more people and then do we animate the homes, families groups, sit down in meetings, get invited It also states the Diocesan Goal: “With and the neighborhood? to meals or snacks, interview the period of 7 years (2018-2025), the parishioners, say masses in the main Bishop, priests, religious and laity of the Evangelization of the Neighborhood church and the different villages Diocese of Cubao, moving together as a (Corinthian Gardens, Corinthian Hills, community of disciples, having been If faith, fellowship, formation and active White Plains, Acropolis, Saint Ignatius, renewed, will undertake the mission of participation are brought to the level of Libis), facilitate a Bible Sharing in new and integral evangelization; thus, the neighborhood, our parish will be Greenmeadows, give a talk in one LSS becoming a vibrant local church animated on a wider scale. weekend, and many more. I truly felt the committed towards total human One way to do this is to invite warmth of the welcome given by the development.” community to its new parish priest! The parishioners to form “clusters” of faith at the neighborhood level, where ive to people are friendly, engaging, and And of course, it is good to be reminded supportive. I found out for myself the eight parishioners gather regularly to of our Diocese’s Vision Statement: “A pray and to care for each other as a small truth to what Fr. Bong Tupino said, “You community of Christ-like disciples church community. will like it here, Steve. Mababait ang mga empowered and sent through effective tao dito.” servant-leadership moving towards A cluster could be a Bible sharing group becoming a Church of the poor.” where members regularly open the My irst few months were spent getting scriptures, re lect on it and share how to know the people and familiarizing they apply these teachings in their lives. myself with the rhythm and culture of CTK Pastoral Expectations In this case, God’s Word brings them this community. So many people have together! mentioned their names to me, and The pastoral expectations for CTK, based believe me, I have and still am struggling on the Priority Agenda, seem to be Bonded by God’s Word, formation and to remember them all! obvious: animation of the parish, fellowship happen in the clusters, right formation and evangelization of the in the very neighborhood. As I continue establishing relationships community with special emphasis on with people, the pastoral work and families and the youth. Stewardship has The programs and activities of the activities in this parish moves on. been a core feature of CTK parish life for ministries therefore should be able to many years now. I have heard some support the formation and enrichment I came in when the parish is about to leaders proudly telling me, “CTK, Father, of these clusters with a conscious effort formulate its plans and programs for is a stewardship parish.” to “evangelize the neighborhood”.
2 Fr. Steve Zabala’s First CTK Mass and Parish Fellowship, June 17
Newly-designated Parish Priest for Christ The offertory involved the Mustard Seed with help from senior Altar Server John the King Parish Greenmeadows, Rev. Fr. Ministry children offering their hand- Juat. Vocation Ministry co-head Louie Steve Zabala, conducted his irst CTK drawn illustrations to Fr. Steve. Fr. Steve Laudico did the commissioning rite mass, concelebrated with outgoing announcements. parish priest Fr. Bong Tupino last June 17 at 9 am. Fr. Bong gave Fr. Steve a warm welcome and introduction and true to his reputation, Fr. Steve reciprocated with both praise and funny stories that had
Little girls and boys of the Mustard Seed Ministry gang up around Fr. Steve to hand him their religious artwork. was clearly touched by the innocence of the ‘little ones’ even as they kept pushing their artwork onto Fr. Steve and kept tugging at his sutana.
CTK PPC officers, led by Coordinator couple The new Altar Servers, brothers John Bert and Marie Anne Santos, below; Assistant Elroy & Kristof Isaac Aragon, joined the Coordinator couple Henry and Joyce Tañedo, top; Secretary couple David and Fely Ong, above, and Treasurer Elise del Rosario, also below.
the massgoers laughing out loud. But at the end, Fr. Steve acknowledged that whenever he was stumped with a problem, he’d inevitably call on Fr. Bong who almost always would give him sound and wise advice.
Above left, Vocation Ministry co-head Louie Laudico plays emcee role at the altar server June 17 was also Fathers’ Day and both commissioning. John Elroy Aragon and Kristof Isaac Aragon get their new frocks. Bottom, Fr. Bong Tupino and Fr. Steve Zabala Fr. Bong blesses and commissions the 45 altar servers.
43 current Altar Servers, who were also commissioned during the same mass. Proud parents Chi and Jp Aragon put on the Altar Server frocks on their children, continued on next page 3 New Pastoral Center for continued from previous page Fr. Steve’s Previous Parish, Lord of Divine Fr. Steve Zabala’s First CTK Mass and Parish Fellowship . . . Mercy
Last June 23, a week after his irst CTK mass, Fr. Steve Zabala participated in the 6:00am mass and blessing of the new Parish of the Lord of Divine Mercy’s (PLDM) Parish Pastoral Center by Cubao Diocese head Bishop Honesto F. Ongtioco DD.
Fr. Bong, Fr. Steve and Fr. Jim take turns in blessing the fathers on Fathers’ Day
Fr. Steve joins the parishioners at the Coffee After Church that followed the 9 am The center had been a ‘from the ground mass service. Everyone wanted to meet, greet up’ project, borne squarely by Fr. Steve and take photos with the new parish priest. while he was parish priest of PLDM. It had cost a total of PhP80M and nearly all the money had been raised, save for the last P10M. Even though Fr. Herbie Santos has now taken over as parish priest of PLDM, Fr. Steve is still contributing to the ‘last mile’ of fund raising by giving away ‘free’ copies of his biography, ‘KSP: Kuwento ni Fr. Steve according to Posadas’, written by author Sylvia Posadas in exchange for donations of at least P500. blessed the fathers who came to the front of the altar near the end of the mass.
The Coffee After Church, or CAC, that followed at 10 am was set up at the Parish Social Hall in anticipation of possible light rain. It was hosted by Couples for Christ-CTK chapter headed by Glen and Girlie Ubaldo and Ed and Cecille Salonga. Additional food was also brought in by EMHC head Albert Cuadrante and village coordinators Irene
Fr. Steve autographs copies of his biography, ‘KSP’, with donations to be used to help Robles, Maan del Rosario, and Eileen de finish the PLDM pastoral center construction Leon.
Fr. Steve Zabala, CTK’s new parish priest, clearly enjoyed his irst time to meet and greet the CTK parishioners who, in turn, were also very eager to shake the hands and get their sel ies taken with Fr. Steve. Everyone admitted that it was the biggest CAC crowd ever. 4 continued from page 1 Goodbye, Fr. Serge and Fr. Ricky; ‘Hindi Namin Kayo Makakalimutan’
Below, posing with the parishioners are Fr. Jojo Gatdula, Fr. Ricky Montañez, Bishop Raul Martirez, Fr. Serge Maniba, and Msgr. Tony Mortillero.
our well-loved Bishop Raul Martirez assigned there as guest priest back in hails from. Fr. Serge had been taking up 2008-2009 while he was pursuing his his PHD in Theology, majoring in MA. Missiology at the Institute for Consecrated Life in Asia (ICLA). Fr. Serge Fr. Ricky, on the other hand, had been a and Ricky by the PPC members, with the is no stranger to U.P. since he had been guest priest at CTK just a few months songs ‘Hindi Kita Malimot’ and later than Fr. Serge and is with the ‘Minamahal Kita’. Augustinians of the Assumption order.
The PPC, through Worship Ministry head Leila Banico, hosted the despedida breakfast at St. Mark-St. Matthew Rooms. Several CTK parishioner friends of Fr. Serge and Fr. Ricky attended both the thanksgiving mass and the despedida breakfast including several EMHCs, lectors- commentators, village coordinators, and ministry heads. Young violinist and Mustard Seed Ministry guardian Nicky Maza played several of her favorite pieces while the guests were having their breakfast.
At the end of the breakfast, both priests were successfully coaxed into singing at least two favorite songs apiece. St. Ignatius village coordinator Lulay dela Cruz and PPC Lay Coordinator Bert Santos then led a serenade of Frs. Serge
5 CTK Parish Pastoral Council Bids Adieu to Fr. Jun Arvie Bello Fr. Arvie Bello, visiting guest priest of embarrassed that we were giving him a the other dioceses in the country. Fr. CTK since mid-July, of iciated his last despedida. And I told him that it’s Arvie is also the very irst to be sent by mass at Christ the King Greenmeadows because he's special, that he's one of the the Diocese, using Diocese funds, for last August 16, Thursday. This was most talented priests in the diocese and further studies.’ followed by a simple fellowship the parishioners here are very happy to breakfast at St. Luke Room. Fr. Steve have him, even if only for a month. As the Fr. Arvie, addressing the large CTK crowd Zabala had invited all the PPC members diocese expert in canon law and the that attended, replied in turn that ‘the memory of your friendship, the memory of your affection and your love will keep me warm during winter’, in reference to the movie, An Affair to Remember. And he asked everyone to continue praying for him as he starts his advanced studies in Canon Law.
Fr. Arvie has enrolled in the doctorate program at the Ponti ical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas (PUST) in Rome, Italy, also known as the Angelicum, in honor of its patron, Doctor Angelicus Thomas Aquinas. The Angelicum is one of the ponti ical universities in Rome and is administered by the Dominicans. This is the same school where Bishop Ongtioco inished his Licentiate in Spirituality. Fr. Arvie studied at the University of Santo Tomas and belonged to the fraternity of Dominican priests. ‘My training has been Dominican so I should be at home in Angelicum’, said Fr. Arvie. to join him for both the mass and judicial vicar, Fr. Arvie created the breakfast. Fr. Arvie is a former parish diocese marriage tribunal and created priest of San Isidro Labrador and was the criteria for selection of pre-judicial scheduled to pursue further studies in counselors who would be the irst-line of Rome. He left for Rome last August 22. review before meritorious cases are passed on to the tribunal. This format Fr. Arvie will be remembered for and protocols are now being copied by completely demolishing his church structure at San Isidro Labrador Parish and building a new and beautiful church within seven months. Last July 2 was the Solemn Dedication of the parish church and the Consecration of the Altar by Bishop Honesto Ongtioco, witnessed by more than 20 priests and lay people. At the same time, Fr. Arvie's San Isidro Labrador Quasi-Parish was formally The post-graduate program in Canon elevated to a full- ledged parish. The Canonical Erection of the San Isidro Law at Angelicum is a three-year program and Fr. Arvie is expected to be Labrador Parish, located behind the in residence for the whole three years. SSS and LTO buildings in East Avenue, ‘Of course, the Bishop is expecting me to was also included among the rites inish in less than three years, to save the of iciated by Bishop Ongtioco. diocese some money,’ Fr. Arvie quipped.
He was replaced by Fr. Robert Reyes as While in Rome, Fr. Arvie will be staying parish priest at San Isidro Labrador. in Ponti icio Collegio Filippino. Inaugurated by Blessed Pope John XXIII At the end of the August 16 farewell mass, Fr. Steve gave a short tribute for in 1961, the Collegio is the “Home in Fr. Arvie. ‘Fr. Arvie had been Rome” of Filipino secular diocesan continued on next page 6 continued from previous page CTK Parish Pastoral Council Bids Adieu . . . Ongtioco for advice who were building the church, we were also convinced him to take Canon Law. building the community.’ And that’s why Fr. Arvie pursued his Licentiate in Canon Law from Fr. Arvie was quick to emphasize that the UST. That took three years, from entire community pitched in with their 2011 to 2014, and in 2014, just time, skills, or money, in true prior to completing his Licentiate, stewardship fashion. ‘We’re one of the Fr. Arvie was ordained. poorest parishes,’ Fr. Arvie confessed. He then narrated a touching story. ‘After the No sooner had he been ordained mass, a woman approached me and she when the diocese established the asked me if I accepted ‘barya’, to which I marriage tribunal in 2015. Pope said - oo naman syempre tumatanggap Francis had the vision of having a kami ng barya. And then she said she had priests, carefully chosen and formally judicial pastoral service in every saved a little each day from January to sent by their respective bishops to parish which would both counsel, December so I asked the sacristan to go pursue further studies in the different attempt to reconcile, assess, and where with her to the squatter shanty where ecclesiastical centers in Rome. The meritorious, facilitate the iling of she lived. She gave him one large Collegio administrators report directly to ‘garapon ng barya’. When we counted the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the all the coins, it was more than P3,000! Philippines, which has an Episcopal This was an informal settler wife for Commission on the Collegio. Collegio whom that amount could have placed priests interact with priests from food in the table, paid for electricity, different continents and cultures. During paid for water but she chose to give it their Roman sojourn, whenever their to the church. I was stunned. academic commitments allow, the Especially when you compare it to the priests of the Collegio make themselves caroling that our PPC did with the available to exercise their ministry with wealthier families in the parish - on the Filipino diaspora and seek to know average, they got only P200 per and obtain a most useful pastoral household.’ experience with the local Churches in Italy. ‘Let me tell you another heartwarming story, ‘Fr. Arvie When asked why he thought he was continued. ‘Everyone in the PPC was selected by Bishop Ongtioco to be the soliciting and one of them solicited irst diocesan priest to be sent for from a neighbor. What she didn’t further studies, Fr. Arvie could only know was that the neighbor was in hazard a guess. ‘ I suspect it’s because of fact a Protestant. When she was told the needs of the diocese. With so many by the other PPC members that she marriage cases in the docket, and with a documents needed for the annulment had solicited from a Protestant, she very new marriage tribunal, perhaps the process. ‘We started with 14 judicial was so embarrassed so she quickly went diocese needs a Doctor in Canon Law so counselors and now we have graduated back to her neighbor to return the we can competently ful ill our 50, in three batches. We’re proud that donation. Her neighbor told her ‘No, you responsibility.’ the Diocese of Cubao is actually able to don’t have to return the money - we have assign a judicial counselor per parish in the same God and that’s for the house of Asked how he was informed of the the diocese,’ Fr. Arvie said. God.’ So I look at these two examples and scholarship award, Fr. Arvie answered, ’It it dawned on me that the Lord wanted to was really like a Lenten experience for give me a lasting memory of his me because Bishop Ness informed me on San Isidro Labrador in Pinyahan was Fr. providence and to reinforce my faith in Ash Wednesday but at the same time Arvie's irst assignment after being humanity. When times get dif icult, and asked not to tell anyone just yet. He ordained. The parish priest had fallen ill they will almost certainly do in life, I will inally announced it during the Chrism so he was assigned for a year as have faith that the Lord will never Mass on Holy Thursday - that was 40 Administrator. Little did he know that he forsake me. I’m so thankful for the days later! I couldn’t say goodbye to my would spend the next four years in that experience of building the church.’ parishioners, I couldn't tell my parents. It quasi-parish. was agony!’ When asked how much the church cost We asked how dif icult it was to say in total, Fr. Arvie replied, ‘Approximately By way of history, Fr. Arvie Bello had goodbye to his Isidro Labrador P7 million. With all the donations we completed his Master’s Degree in parishioners. ‘It was really dif icult’, Fr. received, I’m proud to say that we Philosophy before he studied Theology. Arvie answered. ‘Not only was I there for reached that total without assistance Fr. Arvie wanted to pursue a doctorate in four years, it was also my irst from the diocese. In fact, I’m proud to say Philosophy, his irst love - in fact, he was assignment - and we went through that we actually had a little bit left over already writing his thesis for doctoral signi icant community bonding due to so we donated to the Casa de Silencio dissertation. But he asked Bishop the church construction. So while we fund.’
7 continued from page 1 Diocese Launches Eight-Point Priority Agenda for 2018-2025 at 15th Diocesan Anniversary Mass The inal version of the Diocese of celebrated by Cubao’s Eight-Point Priority Agenda for no less than 2018-2025, or DCPA8, was unveiled at diocese head the celebratory mass for the diocese’s Bishop 15th anniversary last Tuesday, August Honesto F. 28, at the Immaculate Conception Ongtioco DD. Cathedral in Lantana, Cubao. Preceding the mass was a traditional Caracol dance, or religious dance procession at 5:30 pm.
The crafting of the 2018-2025 Diocesan danced in front of the crowd to get them Pastoral Agenda began with General applauding for the agenda launch at the Assembly in Tagaytay (attended by CTK's end of the mass. There was also a short Bert Santos, David and Fely Ong, and video that highlighted the problems of modern society - rampant violence, killings of priests, loods resulting from environmental degradation, falling church mass attendance (63% in 1991 to 37% by 2013), disregard for human rights, suicide and drug abuse in youth, fake news, etc. - and the diocese response via the eight-point priority agenda.
Among those attending for Christ the King Parish Greenmeadows were PPC Lay Coordinator Bert Santos, PPC Secretary David Ong, PPC Co-Treasurer Bing del Rosario, Stewardship Committee heads Benjie and Wins Mirasol, Youth Ministry coordinator Althea Geronilla, and Knights of Columbus chief Cen Hernando. covered in the June 2018 issue of The Herald) where the Diocese performance from 2011-2017 was Attended by a majority of the diocesan reviewed. This was followed by a priests and a huge number of PPC series of workshops with the Technical representatives from each of the Committee and inally, consultations parishes, the 6 pm anniversary mass was with the Consultores of the Diocese. After several revisions based on the recommendation from the Cubao Clergy, inal approval was given by Bishop Ongtioco on August 22, 2018. Above, among those representing CTK at the Priority Agenda launch were Lay Coordinator Bert Santos, Formation Ministry head David Ong, and Stewardship Bishop Ongtioco formally launched the heads Benjie and Wins Mirasol. 2018-2025 Priority Agenda during his homily. ‘Our new Pastoral Plan, DCPA8, will set our direction as a Diocese in the coming years,’ he announced. ‘Let us journey together in carrying out the agenda.’ He then enumerated the eight-point agenda and ended with the battlecry, ‘Bago Ito! Atin Ito! Cubao Ito!’ The same slogan was printed on the shirts of the volunteers who
8 2-Page Primer: Diocese of Cubao Priority Agenda 2018-2025
DCPA NO. 1: INTEGRATING FAMILIES IN of faith and morals of the parishioners, 3. To synergize formation programs and already affected by secular mentality and resources leading to the THE LIFE OF THE CHURCH religious indifference. institutionalization of pastoral The socio-economic-political and development. cultural changes contribute to the This situation calls for a concrete plan of breakdown of marriage, relationships action to animate the parish life, in which and values within the family; which parishioners claim their parish as their DCPA NO. 4: UPHOLDING HUMAN community, where they feel ultimately affect church life. The DIGNITY AND INTEGRITY OF CREATION phenomena of migration, cohabitation, belongingness and participate in its same-sex union, teenage pregnancies, mission through the lifestyle of We are witnesses to the neglect of the divorce, single-parenting, contraceptive stewardship. value and dignity of the human person, mentality, LGBT demands for especially of the poor and marginalized acceptance, and poverty are some of the GOAL: By the year 2025, the Diocese of sectors, whose rights are constantly issues that families are faced with. Cubao will be a local church where threatened and attacked. Our Catholic parishioners claim their parish as their faith emphasizes our responsibility to We believe parishes should have community, where they experience uphold and respect the basic dignity of inclusive and concrete pastoral programs belongingness and participate in its our fellow humans. Therefore, we strive to journey with couples and families, mission of new evangelization. to maintain a Catholic community where offering hope, encouragement and everyone enjoys basic human dignity and strength, leading towards fuller OBJECTIVES: respect, and lives without prejudice and participation and integration in the life of discrimination. the church. 1. To intensify a sense of identity & community as a parish through In addition, this is in response to Pope GOAL: By the end of 2025, the Diocese of activities that encourage fellowship. Francis’ challenge to "protect our Cubao will be a local church where common home". It is also our Parishes, as FAMILY of FAMILIES will 2. To systematize participation through responsibility as Catholics to address create an environment of hope, trust, ministries in the spirit of stewardship. environmental problems, especially if transparency and communion thru pro- they affect the poor and vulnerable active sustainable small-group 3. To strengthen communion and people. discipleship programs leading towards mission in the parish through BEC. fuller integration of families in the life of GOAL: By the end of 2025, the Diocese of the church. Cubao will be a local church with a fully- DCPA NO. 3: DEVELOPING EFFECTIVE, developed social action arm with the OBJECTIVES: COMMITTED AND RENEWED WITNESSES capability and resources that respond to OF THE CATHOLIC FAITH current socio-political and 1. To integrate family-oriented programs environmental issues and challenges. and ministries in the parish pastoral Majority of Filipino Catholics lack basic programs. knowledge and understanding of OBJECTIVES: Catholic Faith. There is a need to deepen 2. To develop and train Pastoral workers our faith so that we gain the con idence 1. To conduct Basic Orientation and in becoming truly authentic servants and skill to profess and share their faith. capability building formation for both and witnesses of the Gospel. That is why it is important that the Clergy and Lay Leaders, highlighting Diocese develop, implement, and the importance and current trends in 3. To equip families with knowledge of institute sustainable and continuing advocacies for social apostolate and Scriptures and Catholic doctrines to formation programs for the faithful to environmental protection. help them become living witnesses of make them effective, committed and God’s love. renewed witnesses of faith. 2. To institutionalize the necessary of ices/desk to serve the cause of the GOAL: By the end of 2025, The Diocese poor and the environment with DCPA NO. 2: ANIMATING PARISH LIFE of Cubao will develop the Christian collaboration among these ministries: faithful of the Diocese to become SSDM, RJM, PAM, CARITAS, Urban Poor Parish life has considerably weakened in effective, committed, and renewed Ministry, the YOUTH, and the Ecology the course of years despite the many witnesses of Catholic faith. Desk. efforts of renewal in the Church. This is easily seen in the decrease of mass OBJECTIVES: 3. To strengthen the linkages with GOs, attendance and participation in parish NGOs and Private Sectors for activities; the "un-churched Catholics" 1. To develop lay formation programs on partnership endeavors in response to remains a great challenge. Basic Catholic Faith. the needs of the Poor. 2. To recruit, train and sustain Unless addressed, the weakening of committed lay evangelizers from the 4. To identify available resources and parish life may lead further to the ranks of the faithful. programs that protect the rights of the disintegration of parish life and erosion sectors that experience discrimination continued on next page 9 continued from previous page 2-Page Primer: Diocese of Cubao Priority Agenda 2018-2025
and abuse on account of their vital that our clergy continue to enrich DCPA NO. 8: EMBRACING STEWARDSHIP imprisonment, mental and physical and deepen their faith life and achieve and gender, age, and ethnicity. competence in discharging their priestly AS A WAY OF LIFE responsibilities. We look towards a Stewardship involves the principles of future where the clergy "know their Ownership (Psalm 24), Responsibility, DCPA NO. 5: ENGAGING THE YOUTH sheep" and the faithful see them as Accountability (Parable of the Talents), dedicated, compassionate and effective and Reward (Colossians 3:23-24). The Filipino youth today faces different shepherds, thereby providing the issues such as increasing suicide rate, inspiration to attract and inspire We are all called as God's stewards to premarital sex, illegal drugs, depression, vocations. manage that which belongs to God. We identity crisis and family problems that are all stewards of the resources, greatly affect their emotional, social, GOAL: By the year 2025, the Diocese of abilities, and opportunities that God has spiritual, physical and moral wellbeing. Cubao will be a local church where the entrusted to our care. Those who These situations hinder their clergy are more dedicated, faithfully undertake this responsibility involvement and active participation in compassionate and effective shepherds, can expect to be rewarded fully in the the life-mission and work of the church. who are able to attract and inspire next life. Therefore, it is vital for young people to vocations. be properly informed and formed about In the present time, we need to embrace the Catholic faith and Christian values OBJECTIVES: this biblical view of stewardship, which and empower them to be Christ-centered goes beyond inancial matters and servant leaders and active proponents of 1. To pursue the on-going formation of building projects. We need to be faithful change. the clergy, focused on strengthening stewards of all that God has given us pastoral zeal. within the opportunities presented GOAL: By the end of 2025, the Diocese of through his providence to glorify him, Cubao will be a local church where the 2. To foster fraternal mentoring on serve the common good and further his youth are Christ-centered servant shepherding (by vicariate). Kingdom. leaders and active proponents of change. 3. To enhance relationship with It is imperative that we work towards OBJECTIVES: parishioners. applying the concepts of "faith, work, and economics" to where we can support 1. To empower young people through the mission and apostolate of the Church. intensive leadership training and DCPA NO. 7: MAXIMIZING NEW MEDIA GOAL: By the end of 2O25, all parishes in formation programs focusing on FOR EVANGELIZATION virtue, learning, spirit and service the Diocese of Cubao are "Stewardship towards SELF-TRANSFORMATION. In an age when social and other forms of Parishes" where parishioners live out the spirituality of stewardship, recognizing digital media are signi icantly shaping the graciousness and generosity of God 2. To formulate programs and activities and reshaping public views and opinions, that engage the youth in the life- Pope Benedict's call to "evangelize the calling us to be “good and faithful mission and work of the church digital continent" is an af irmation of the servants" (Matthew 25:21), which will help them become Catholic Church's recognition of the acknowledging the gift we have received proponents of change. and sharing them gratefully and potential of digital communication for generously. evangelization. We endeavor to establish 3. To establish relationship and a stronger new media presence for our collaboration with other ministries OBJECTIVES: that provide opportunities for local parishes in order to spread the growth and development of the Gospel and Catholic values to a much 1. To review the CBCP PASTORAL young. wider audience. LETTER ON STEWARDSHIP and study the possible ways of implementing GOAL: By the end of 2O25, The Diocese appropriate and effective guidelines of Cubao will be a local church where suited to the context of the Diocese of DCPA NO. 6: MOLDING SHEPHERDS new media and technology are fully Cubao. AFTER THE HEART OF JESUS maximized for evangelization. 2. To create a program of parish In the likeness of Christ, the Good OBJECTIVES: involvement through systematization Shepherd who is willing to lay down his 1. To establish, train and equip the of parishioners’ participation in the life for his sheep, our priests are parish media ministry in every parish life and activities that committed to lead the lock of the Parish. encourage sharing of their time, talent Christian faithful to receive God's and treasure. salvation. They are faced daily with the 2. To disseminate the gospel and challenge of making God's abounding Catholic teachings through the 3. To implement activities designed to love concrete and alive by answering not production of creative media. help parishioners understand and only the spiritual needs of people but appreciate the spirituality of also the other facets of their lives. 3. To establish a system that will stewardship as the means to facilitate communication within the demonstrate gratitude through In order to ful ill this Divine mission, it is Diocese. generosity in sharing one's blessings. 10 continued from page 1 Diocese Breaks Ground on Casa de Silencio ceremony, attended by most of the 47 parish priests of the diocese plus over a hundred guests, most of whom are of icers of the 47 parish pastoral councils, plus prominent friends of the diocese, including Barangay Santol chair Eduardo Nieto. It was held at the Most Holy Redeemer Parish compound headed by parish priest Fr. Michel Joe Zerrudo.
CEO of HDC, the selected builder- who gave the rosary that he has been contractor. carrying since his pilgrimage to Mexico and Rev. Fr. Bong Cabrera who gave the A copy of the signed plans was included cross that he regularly wears around his in the time capsule, which also included neck – as well as a young priest and a personal possessions of two retired deacon – Rev. Carlo Narvasa who gave priests – Rev. Msgr. Antonio Mortillero the book that has inspired him the most
Top, Monsignor Dan Sta. Maria does the opening remarks for the groundbreaking ceremony. Above and below, Bishop Ness Ongtioco leads the Rite of Blessing.
Below, Rev. Carlo Narvasa doing the readings during the Blessing Rite. Carlo also gave a – The Life of St. Bridget - and Rev. Fr. At the ceremony, which started at 10 am, personal item that went into the time retired Vicar General and project head capsule, which Bishop Ness Ongtioco later Jover Domanico. Bishop Ongtioco himself stuffed with the signed architectural plans Msgr. Daniel B. Sta. Maria opened with an and a copy of the day’s newspaper, above. placed one of his skullcaps into the time introductory message. Diocese of Cubao capsule. For the concrete pouring, the head Most Rev. Bishop Honesto F. group was joined by Most Holy Ongtioco DD followed with the Rite of Redeemer parish priest Fr. Zerrudo, Blessing of the new building site. The project manager Ping Aliling’s mother building plans were then formally signed Evelyn, and co-founder of HDC Marylou by Bishop Ongtioco, former Vicar dela Cruz. General and project head Rev. Monsignor Daniel B. Santa Maria, current Vicar The event concluded with a touching General Rev. Father Steven C. Zabala, message from Msgr. Mortillero followed diocese construction committee in- by an inspiring call to action from Bishop charge and parish priest of Our Lady of Ongtioco. The proceedings were Pentecost parish Rev. Father Herbel moderated by Bing del Rosario and Rev. Torres, and Engr. Hermando dela Cruz, Fr. Joey Maborang, who is a member of continued on next page 11 continued from previous page Diocese Breaks Ground on Casa de Silencio Project
the retired priests to entertain former due to permanent or long-term illness or parishioners and to provide private disability. And since the diocese of Cubao counseling. has no of icial retirement home, retired parish priests who have spent several The diocese has estimated that the cost decades living in their parish rectory of running the retirement home will be have no choice but to look for rectory quite high, hence the decision for the bed space in other parishes, or rent an facility to also be a renewal center where apartment, which is often beyond their means, or try very hard to look for relatives who will shelter them during their remaining years. Failing that, they look to generous ex-parishioners to provide them a small room in their homes.’
Fr. Bong Tupino, parish priest of UP Holy Sacri ice Parish, and currently on study sabbatical, earlier explained the psychology involved. ‘Faced with these issues, some younger priests, even early Fr. Joey Maboran of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel is on in their ministry, become anxious and Top, the VIPs led by Mrs. Aliling, mother of master of ceremonies. Project Manager Ping Aliling, and Fr. Dodot insecure that they too might grow old Torres, Construction Committee head, lead the meetings, conferences, and overnight lowering of the time capsule. Above, Fr. Jojo without anybody to take care of them. Zerrudo and Fr. Steve Zabala pose with their retreats can be held in exchange for shovels. Below, Bishop Ness and winning donations to cover facility upkeep. They then become preoccupied about bidder Hermando dela Cruz put in final earning and saving for their retirement. shovelful of cement. Priority will be given to the parishes, the religious orders, mandated organizations So the diocese, by providing them a sense and prayer movements, and the of security through a retirement home, parochial schools. Therefore, the plans hopes that the priests will no longer be overly-concerned with material matters now include a 3rd and 4th loor, each with 25 smaller rooms for overnight and distracted from their priestly tasks. retreatants. Provisions have also been That instead, they will be constantly made for conference rooms plus a multi- focused and zealous in their priestly purpose open space that can be ministry of caring for souls.’ converted for large dining or fellowship events. A stand-alone chapel has also ‘We hope to complete this project in 20 been designed to accommodate special months’, said Monsignor Sta. Maria. ‘So, masses for outside groups. keeping our ingers crossed, we expect the retirement and renewal facility to be the Order of Carmelites Discalced, the ‘This retirement home is already up and running by mid 2020. In fact, we parish priest of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel overdue,’ according to former Diocese of suspect we can move in some of the Parish National Shrine, and concurrently Cubao Vicar General Monsignor Daniel B. retired priests as early as fourth quarter the diocese’s Episcopal Vicar for the Sta. Maria, who recently turned 75 and 2019.’ Religious. recently retired. ‘Several dioceses have put up retirement homes for their The retirement home will be aging and sick priests, like the appropriately called Casa de Silencio, the Archdiocese of Manila with their St. name taken from one of the streets Loreto, Sampaloc home, or the bounding the lot on which the home is to dioceses of Tuguegarao, Cagayan; be built. The lot is also bounded by Palo, Leyte; Dumaguete, Negros; Brixton Hill, Landargun, and Lunda Balanga, Bataan; Caceres, Camarines Streets and is just a block away from Sur, and so on.’ busy Araneta Avenue. The plans call for 25 retired-sick priest rooms. At the The new Vicar General, Fr. Steve moment, ive diocesan priests have Zabala, who is also concurrently already retired and the diocese parish priest of Christ the King The CTK contingent, above and below. calculates as many as an additional ive Parish Greenmeadows, confessed retirees by 2025, with possibly another that retirement is very dif icult for eight more before 2030. The home will priests. ‘As you know, as our priests have a dining room, an entertainment- retire, they have to leave the parish recreation room, a itness-therapy-rehab rectory to make way for the new room, a nurse’s station with a mini- parish priest. In a few cases, priests in irmary, and a sala-library. The lobby may not have yet reached retirement will have suf icient space and privacy for age but are forced to drop out early
12 Fr Bong Delivers Farewell Formation Talk at EMHC Assembly
Fr. Bong Tupino gave From Chapter his last Two: Formation talk at the regular Even when monthly someone’s life appears meeting of the completely Extraordinary wrecked, even Ministers of when we see it the Holy devastated by vices or Communion addic ons, God is (EMHC) last present there. We June 21. As must try to find with the the Lord in every Lectors and human life. (42) Commentators, In every one of he discussed Pope Francis’ Apostolic our brothers and sisters, especially the least, even though doing so may not bring immediate Exhortation: Gaudete et Exsultate, which the most vulnerable, the defenseless and those sa sfac on. (112) called for holiness in today’s world. in need, God’s very image is found. (61) Chris an joy brings deep security, serene hope From Chapter Three: and a spiritual fulfillment that the world cannot Pope Francis' latest opus, written in understand or appreciate. It is usually March this year, is composed of 177 accompanied by a sense of humor. (125) The Bea tudes are like the Chris an’s iden ty paragraphs divided into ive chapters. Fr. card. If anyone asks, ‘What must one do to be a Bong read aloud very pertinent passages Look at Jesus. His deep compassion reached out good Chris an?’, the answer is clear - do in our to others. it did not make him hesitant, mid or from the book which he then re lected own way what Jesus told us in the Sermon on self-conscious.His compassion made him go out on. the Mount. The word ‘blessed’ thus becomes a ac vely to preach and to send others on a synonym for ‘holy’. (63) mission of healing and libera on. Boldness and From Chapter One: apostolic courage are an essen al part of our Indeed once we are rich, we can become so mission. (131) self-sa sfied that we leave no room for God’s My modest goal is to re-propose the call to word, for the love of our brothers and sisters, or We are inspired to act by the example of all holiness in a prac cal way for our own me, for the enjoyment of the most important things those priests, religious, and laity who devote with all its risks, challenges and opportuni es. in life. (68) themselves to proclama on and to serving (2) others with great fidelity, o en at the risk of If we are constantly upset and impa ent with their own lives and certainly at the cost of their Holiness is present in those parents who raise others, we will end up drained and weary. But if comfort. Their tes mony reminds us that, more their children with immense love, in those men we regard the faults and limita ons of others than bureaucrats and func onaries, the Church and women who work hard to support their with tenderness and meekness, without an air needs passionate missionaries, enthusias c families; very o en, it is a holiness found in our of superiority, we can actually help them and about sharing true life. (138) next-door neighbors, those who, living in our stop was ng our energy on useless midst, reflect God’s presence. (7) complaining. (72) Growth in holiness is a journey in community, side by side with others. Sharing the word and Holy persons discover the meaning of life by celebra ng the Eucharist together fosters coming to the aid of those who suffer, fraternity and makes it a holy and missionary understanding their anguish and bringing relief. community. (142) They feel compassion for others in such a way that all distance vanishes. (76) From Chapter Five: The yards ck we use for understanding and forgiving others will measure the forgiveness We should not think of the devil as a we receive. The yards ck we use for giving will representa on, a symbol, a figure of speech or measure what we receive. (81) an idea. The devil poisons us with the venom of hatred, desola on, envy and vice. When we let Peacemakers build peace and friendship in down our guard, he takes advantage to destroy society. They embrace those who are different, our lives, our families, and our communi es. difficult, odd, demanding. (88) (161) When St. Thomas Aquinas was asked which Discernment is more than intelligence or external works best show our love for God, he common sense. We can grow in this spiritual answered unhesita ngly that they are the endowment by developing it with prayer, works of mercy towards our neighbor, even reflec on, reading and good counsel. The gi of To be holy does not require being a bishop, a more than our acts of worship. (106) discernment has become all the more necessary priest or a religious. We are all called to be holy today since contemporary life offers immense by living our lives with love and by bearing From Chapter Four: possibili es for ac on and distrac on, and the witness in everything we do, wherever we find world presents all of them as valid and good. (166) ourselves. Are you married? Be holy by loving Inner strength enables us to persevere amid and caring for your husband or wife. Do you life’s ups and downs but also to endure hos lity, work for a living? Be holy by laboring with betrayal and failings on the part of others. They At the time of the talk, Fr. Bong had integrity and skill. Are you in a posi on of do not desert others in bad mes; they already formally transferred to the Parish authority? Be holy by working for the common accompany them in their anxiety and distress, of the Holy Sacri ice at UP Diliman. good and renouncing personal gain. (14) 13 ABCs of Spiritual Warfare by the Country’s Top Exorcist
Rev. Fr. Jose Francisco ‘Jocis' Syquia gave a well-received talk on ‘Spiritual Combat: asked Fr. Being a Warrior for Christ’ at the EMHC Jocis. It is Monthly Formation Talk Series last Lucifer, the Thursday, August 16, at 7 pm. The talk fallen angel, was open to the Lectors & Commentators aka Satan Ministry as well. aka the devil, the seducer Fr. Jocis is the Chief Exorcist of the ‘par Archdiocese of Manila and Secretary excellence’. General of the Philippine Association of He reminded Catholic Exorcists. He is the director of everyone the Of ice of Exorcism and Commissioner that Satan for Extraordinary Phenomena. He has successfully been an exorcist for 16 years and had tempted Adam and Eve, persuaded a third of the when tempted to criticize; giving written-published ive books on generously when tempted to be sel ish; exorcism, with a sixth on the way. angels to join him, and from the eternal ire that is hell, he will do everything in prolonging prayer when tempted to abandon it. He set the mood for the talk by citing two his power to regain what used to belong to him. popes: Fr. Syquia gave special warning regarding ‣ St. John Paul II said, ‘We are now Make no mistake, Fr. Syquia warned. It is temptation. Even the strongest will facing the inal confrontation a battle, and there is no neutrality, no succumb when senses are aroused, the between the church and the anti- mutual co-existence. Jesus himself was imagination is excited, passion is church, of the Gospel vs. the anti- unequivocal, ‘Who is not with me is strongly stirred, appetites stimulated, Gospel.’ against me’. and self-control lost. Beyond temptations, the devil is also at work using extraordinary demonic attacks, or what Fr. Syquia labels as ‘oppression’ and ‘obsession’. This includes: ‣ attacks on the ive senses, e.g., frightening apparitions or hearing suicidal and blasphemous voices in your head. EMHC head Albert Cuadrante introduced Fr. Jocis Syquia ‣ attacks on your health, such as sudden deterioration, erratic blood pressure, tumors, freak accidents. ‣ sleep issues, including night terrors, incubus and succubus attacks
‣ work problems The worst attack will have to be ‘possession’. This is de ined as the full takeover of the body and its senses, hence the effectiveness of the sacramentals. And the victim will usually have no recollection once the state of crisis is over.
Extraordinary demonic activity can ‣ And from Pope Francis himself: The devil attacks in several ways, said Fr. ‘Some of you have said that I’m old- center on a person, or animal, or a place Jocis. The most common way is through like the home. Fr. Syquia talked about fashioned to speak of the devil in the temptation. When we are emotionally 21st century. But look out, because infestation of evil spirits in the home, weak and least expecting it, the devil making the point that every sin attracts the devil is here - even in the 21st offers temptation. But he reminded the century!’ more and more spirits, with every listeners that the most effective way to additional demon creating a stronghold And just exactly who is the adversary, overcome temptation is to do the precise in the infested home. Some signs of opposite, e.g., speaking well of a person demonic in iltration in a home: continued on next page 14 continued from previous page ABCs of Spiritual Warfare . . . Eleven New E M H C s ‣ generations of sin and bad luck for families living in the home Commissione Eleven new Extraordinary Ministers of ‣ outbreak of paranormal and psychic the Holy Communion (EMHC) were phenomena commissioned last August 19 at the 10:30 am mass, presided over by new ‣ burdensome, miserable life-draining parish priest Fr. Steve Zabala. sufferings The new ’11 disciples’ included: James To keep this in check, he reminded the Bautista, Javier Coromina, John Dequina, attendees to: pray; allow God’s peace and Michael Dumaual, Joseph Macavinta, healing to low in and remain in one’s Ferdz Magno, Dems Mauricio, Henry heart; practice the virtues of love, faith, Porca, Frandel Recto, Sands Songalia, and con idence, and trust; have new homes Gerry Valenciano. blessed; and use the sacramentals and prayers of liberation. Sacramentals The EHMC is headed by Albert include: holy water, exorcised oils and Cuadrante, assisted by Manny de Leon. salts, blessed candles and blessed incense and St. Benedict’s medal.
sake of restoring their health - are gravely contrary to the virtue of religion. The problem of possession is The problem is that by being called out exacerbated by the practice of occultism in occult practices, evil spirits are given where people invoke preternatural the right over the person for having used forces, make contact with deities and their ‘services’. Fr. Jocis advised that ancestors, and practice rituals to obtain everyone be wary of elemental or and manipulate power. These occultists ancestral spirits. St. Paul himself are called different names: reiterated the same principle. ‘See to it that no one deceives you through any ‣ those grieving from loss of loved empty seductive philosophy, a ones turn to spiritists or mediums; philosophy based on cosmic powers rather than on Christ.’ ‣ the sick call on faith healers, witch doctors, psychic healers, shamans; Fr. Syquia then went through a few popular manifestations of occultism: 1) ‣ those plagued with anxiety look to feng shui or geomancy which deciphers fortune tellers, palm readers, tarot hidden presence of positive and negative card readers; currents in the physical world; and 2) energy or pranic healing, which utilizes ‣ those who feel victimized and desire the low of life force energy to heal vengeance seek witches, black patients; and 3) third eye, via psychics. magicians, voodoo practitioners; and When possession happens, exorcism is ‣ the lonely call on sorcerers the only solution. Exorcism, according to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, is The church and its catechism are clear - ‘when the Church asks publicly and all practices of magic, sorcery, witchcraft authoritatively in the name of Jesus by which one attempts to tame occult Christ that a person or object be powers so as to place them at one’s protected against the power of the Evil service and have supernatural power One and be withdrawn from His over others - even if this were for the Dominion.’
15 Lectors and Commentators Hold August General Assembly
Fr Jun Arvie Bello, CTK guest priest until Fr. Arvie also talked about the depiction (synoptic) gospels. He speaks of his departure for Rome last August 22, of the symbols of the four Evangelists, “The Word”, which is highly gave the formation talk to the CTK based on the opening verses of their theological, and evidence that he lectors and commentators at the LeCom accounts. sees directly into the identity of General Assembly last August 1, a Christ. Thus the eagle, a creature of Wednesday. 1. Matthew begins with the genealogy the sky, and believed by Christian pertaining to Jesus’ incarnation and scholars to be able to look straight Fr. Arvie began by stressing that as humanity. Matthew, as the author of into the sun. This symbolizes that lectors, God speaks to us and through us. the irst gospel account, is Christians should look on eternity Thus, the challenge for lectors: as symbolized by a winged man, or without linching as they journey proclaimers of the Word of God, how can we be “in sync” with what we are proclaiming if we have not read the source of the scriptures, i.e., the Holy Bible? He gave a pop quiz by asking the lectors questions like - who authored the Book of Genesis? Leviticus? Exodus? how about the Acts of the Apostles? Revelation? (answer: Tradition credits Moses as the author of Genesis, as well as Exodus, Book of Leviticus, Numbers, while the Acts of the Apostles is by Luke and Revelation is by John, the Apostle)
Fr. Arvie irst talked about the four gospel writers. The gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke are referred to as the Synoptic Gospels because they angel. This signi ies that Christians towards their goal of union with include many of the same stories, often should use their reason for salvation. God. He lived to old age as part of his in a similar sequence and sometimes mission to record Revelation. even identical wording. They stand in 2. Mark begins with John the Baptist, contrast to John, whose content is the roaring lion, proclaiming one So Fr. Arvie asked the lectors to ask comparatively distinct. Current theory is greater to come. The winged lion is a themselves: am I merely reading or am I that Matthew and Luke copied from igure of courage and monarchy and proclaiming? How can you proclaim the Mark. Evidence includes: also represents Jesus' resurrection scriptures if you haven’t studied the (because lions were believed to scriptures? So the study of scriptures is 1. St. Mark’s gospels are dif icult sleep with open eyes, a comparison essential in our service. reading, shows little evidence of with Christ in the tomb), and Christ editing, uses crude and rough as king. This signi ies that Christians He also made a strong point of lectors language as if his writings were should be courageous on the path of living the life itting to what is giving a personal account or directly salvation. proclaimed. What is read and who is from an eye witness. On the other reading must be in synch. He asked the hand, Matthew and Luke have 3. Luke's account begins with the lectors if there is a formal persona which eloquent work, editing and duties of Zacharias in the temple; it we project and a real one that comes out embellishing Mark’s work. represents Jesus' sacri ice in His in unguarded moments. ‘Iba ang Passion and Cruci ixion. Luke speaks nagsimba, iba ang uuwi sa bahay’, Fr. 2. Only Mark gives details. For example, of Zechariah offering a sacri ice, and Arvie commented. ‘How sad if people in the calming of the storm, only the ox is an animal of sacri ice, went to heaven because of what the Mark cites “there were other boats” service and strength. The ox signi ies lector read but the lector himself was not and that “Jesus was sleeping”. that Christians should be prepared able to enter heaven.’ to sacri ice themselves in following 3. He gives names, like Bartimaeus, the Christ. Fr. Arvie Bello ended with the blind man, and Salome, daughter of admonition, ‘Preach what you read - and Herodias, whereas the other gospels 4. John starts with an eternal overview practice what you preach. Let the Word refer to them simply as “blind man” of Jesus the Logos and goes on to not just be heard but seen in the very life and “girl”. describe many things with a "higher" of the lector.’ Christology than the other three 16 N e w L e C o m s Diocese Conducts Renewal Commissioned Seminars for Lay Liturgical Ministers Christ the King Parish Greenmeadows welcomed a dozen new Lectors and Continuing Lay Liturgical Ministers - those who cannot make it at the Commentators for 2018. In the (which includes Extraordinary Ministers suggested time can still attend the other commissioning ceremony last August 12 of Holy Communion, Lectors and dates and time slots although they during the 9 am mass, Fr. Steve Zabala, Commentators, and Greeters and should not expect to see their parish CTK parish priest, formally Collectors) have started to attend the mates. commissioned 11 of the 12 . mandatory renewal seminars to be able to continue to perform their ministerial The EMHCs have a later date series - In photo with Fr. Steve, posing left to duties in 2019. October 13, October 20 and October 27. right - Fe Gerona, Girl Valencia, Jill Yu, The Greeters and Collectors, since they Eileen de Leon, Regina Polancos, Rose Lectors and Commentators had the have the least number, can choose from Ong, Miguel de Leon, Lupo Basilio, Daniel earliest renewal dates, starting two slots on November 10 or the Remo, Maielle Montayre, and Che Garcia. September 1, then September 15 and morning slot of Not in photo is Mai Supetran who also inally September 22, with either the November 17. completed Basic Formation but was morning (8 am to 12 noon) slot or All the renewal indisposed for afternoon slot (1 sessions are held the Sunday p m t o 5 p m ) . on the 3rd loor commissioning. Although there are of the Obispado The group had speci ic dates and First weekend ‘renewers’ in Lantana, included the Banico just completed time slots family and the del Cubao. Altar their whole-day suggested per Rosario family. servers, on the Basic Formation p a r i s h - C T K other hand, have at the Obispado LeComs are their renewal in Lantana, recommended to sessions in their Cubao the day attend the respective before, August September 22 parishes. 11. afternoon session Diocese Holds First Youth Forum Last July 28, 2018, the Diocese of Cubao document was drafted for presentation One of the highlights of the forum was Ministry for Youth Affairs (MYA) had its to Pope Francis. the panel discussion with members of 1st Diocesan Youth Forum, held in the the clergy, including Fr. Rey Paglinawan Obispado De Cubao, gathering youth and Fr. Gelo Parlan, the youth reps from all the parishes as well as represented by Gerald Rey Coquia, Family and Life Ministry couple leaders, as well as the coordinators of the MYA. Participants were asked to prepare questions for the panelists on issues and concerns they faced in their parishes, The irst forum activity was an ice- e.g., budget, relationship with elders, breaker in order for participants to get to relationship with their parish priests, know each other and the work that they getting the parish youth engaged, do for their parishes, organizations, and- Diocesan activities for the Youth, etc. or ministries. The issues and concerns raised at the There was also a talk on the Meeting for Diocesan Youth Forum were to be the Preparatory Document for the Youth brought up at the Diocesan Youth Synod which was presented by Mr. Ministry Planning that was to be held Gerald Rey Coquia, one of the Philippine three weeks later in Iloilo. The ideas and representatives to Rome. suggestions brought up should also help the Diocese Ministry for Youth Affairs Participants were divided into different craft its 2018-2019 programs and groups that include youth from different activities to strengthen the youth parishes and vicariates (no two from the community and engage the Diocesan different Campus Ministries and same parish in the same group) youth more effectively. Transparochial Youth Organizations. including a youth animator from the Ministry for Youth Affairs. These The main goal of the Youth Forum was to groupings were made to foster sharing of simulate the meeting in Rome, held last experiences that the youth in the March 2018, of the different youth all Philippines face, their concerns about over the world who are preparing for the the youth in their communities, and how Youth Synod in October, in which a these can be addressed. 17 Vicariate Youth Ministry Holds OLPH Vicariate Youth 2018-2019 Youth Planning Ministry’s Cake Raffle The Vicariate Youth Ministry (VYM) of Our Lady of Perpetual Help had its annual planning last July 14-15, 2018 at Last August 26, 2018, the Our Lady of the St. Camillus Pastoral Care Center, Perpetual Help Vicariate, composed of Varsity Hills, Quezon City. the parishes - Christ The King Greenmeadows, Nativity of Our Lord, The VYM Planning gathered 12 youth Our Lady of Perpetual Help, leaders from the seven parishes of the Trans iguration of Our Lord, San Roque, Vicariate to plan for the year 2018-2019. The parishes represented were Christ The King Greenmeadows, Nativity of Our Lord Parish, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish, Trans iguration of Our Lord Parish, San Roque Parish, Saint John Paul II Parish, and Our Lady of Miraculous Medal Parish.
The 2018 VYM Planning began with updates from each parish, what projects they had done successfully since the
1) Youth of Today and Human Sexuality: HIV and AIDS Awareness, and 2) Living our Vocation in the Youth Ministry.
At the conclusion of the VYM Planning, the new VYM of icers were announced - 2017 planning, as well as their future 1) Fredy Narvasa from San Roque Parish, plans given the new assignments of 2) Arianna Carlos from San Roque Parish, Parish Priests for ive out of the seven and 3) Yna Jabonero from Saint John Paul parishes. II Parish. The new of icers will assist the Elected Of icers, Dan Joseph Ignacio The major projects taken up were the (Coordinator) from Trans iguration of Vicariate Youth Day, Jesus and Me (JAM) Our Lord Parish, Anton Justo CAMP for the youth leaders of the (Coordinator) from Nativity of Our Lord Saint John Paul II, and Our Lady of Parishes, Formation Programs to be led Parish, and Jam Lambong (Secretary) Miraculous Medal, held its irst ever Cake by the VYM such as Liturgical, Financial, from Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish, Raf le at the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Health, and Environment, VYM Outreach, in ensuring that all the plans and Parish. The cakes were donated by and VYM Fundraising Projects. activities of the VYM will be executed various sponsors from the different and will be aligned with the mission and parishes. The main purpose of the the The irst day of the planning was devoted vision of the Diocese of Cubao and each Cake Raf le was to raise funds for future to formation and spiritual activities to of the Parishes in the Vicariate. activities and programs. help foster the youth leaders’ personal growth in the youth ministry and in their The participants also formulated and Each parish was given 50 tickets to be lives. The resource speaker from the adopted the new Mission and Vision sold at 10 Pesos each. Six out of the Diocese of Novaliches shared the statement of the Our Lady of Perpetual seven parishes in the Vicariate structure of their Diocesan Youth Help Vicariate: participated. Members of Christ The King
Ministry and Parish Youth Ministries and Parish’s Parish Pastoral Council bought a how they engage their youth to be more MISSION: total of 120 tickets while the other active and involved in the service of the In witnessing, we commit ourselves to parishes sold their allotted 50 tickets. young people. Capping off the irst day Christ, with our Lady of Perpetual was a prayer activity, the Walk of Prayer, Help, to use our youthful spirit in A second cake raf le is planned for to boost spirituality and relationship bringing Jesus to the young people. October 14 later this year. with Christ. VISION: Receiving the cakes were Bert Santos, The second day of the VYM planning A community of courageous young PPC Coordinator for CTK; Bang Gayomali focused on VYM plans and activities for people, matured in the Christian faith for Trans iguration of Our Lord Parish; – 2018-2019, including the Diocesan and united in the mystical body of Ms. Bang Gayomali; Ms. Raquel Youth Forum, Vicariate Youth Day, Christ--committed in serving the Lord Villafuerte for Nativity of Our Lord Diocesan Youth Day, and 2019’s Year of by welcoming youth of all Parish; Carolina Icasiano for St. John Paul The Youth. In addition, two guest backgrounds especially those in the II Parish; and Leslie Panganiban for Our speakers were invited to speak about periphery. Lady of Perpetual Help Parish.
18 CTK Starts Series on Rediscovering Our Catholic Faith
Fr. Jerome ‘Jigs’ Rosalinda, Parish Priest presenta on and has structure and The third Rediscovering Our Catholic of Parroquia Dela Nuestra Señora dela organiza on. The 1992 catechism is Faith session was last August 9. Among Paz y Buen Viaje in Old Balara, Quezon targeted for everyone. the things shared by Fr. Rosalinda:
‣ The CCC started in 1985 when John Paul ‣ The mystery of the Holy Trinity is the 2 convened the extraordinary synod of central mystery of the Chris an faith bishops which concluded that a and of Chris an life. God alone can catechism was needed. He then put up a make it known to us by revealing commission of bishops, headed by Himself as Father, Son and Spirit. The Cardinal Ratzinger that dra ed a Incarna on of God's Son reveals that catechism and circulated among bishops God is the eternal Father and that the for sugges ons and comments. In 1992, Son is consubstan al with the Father, the CCC was promulgated and has not which means that, in the Father and been edited since. with the Father, the Son is one and the same God. The mission of the Holy ‣ The CCC is divided into four parts: Spirit, sent by the Father in the name of Profession of Faith (creeds); Seven the Son and by the Son ‘from the Sacraments; Morals (10 Father’, reveals that, with them, the Commandments, Bea tudes); and Spirit is one and the same God. The Prayer (The Lord's Prayer). Each part has Father created us, the Son redeemed us, two sec ons: basic principles, and how and the Holy Spirit sanc fied us. to prac ce the doctrine in real life. Each sec on has chapters, each chapter is ‣ God created the world to show and made of ar cles, each ar cle is made up communicate His glory and for His of paragraphs. All in all, CCC has 2,865 creatures to share in His truth, goodness paragraphs.
City, kicked off the monthly catechetical This was followed by a series - Rediscovering Our Catholic Faith - last June 21, a joint undertaking second session last July 19. between CTK’s Formation Ministry and Among the important Couples for Christ. The Catechism of the chapters shared by Fr. Jigs: Catholic Church-based series is scheduled every third Thursdays of the ‣ CCC 27: Desire for God. month, at 7 pm. Man desires meaning. There is an emp ness in us that can only be filled by The June 21 session was an introduction God to and history of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, or CCC. Among the ‣ CCC 31-35: Ways of many things Fr. Jigs shared: Knowing God. Everything and beauty, around us points to a Supreme Being. ‘ ‣ Catechism’ comes from the greek word God is the unmoved mover. ‣ To human beings, God granted free will, ‘katekeo’, which means word of mouth, the ability to cooperate freely with His and sharing with others. ‣ CCC 36-38: Knowledge of God. Because plans. it’s not easy or enough to know God ‣ The first recorded was the Catechism of through reasoning, there is the need for ‣ The fact that God permits physical and the Council of Trent in 1556, the first divine revela on to enter into a personal even moral evil is a mystery that God universally accepted catechism, the knowledge of God through Jesus. illuminated by His Son Jesus Christ who wri ng of which was driven by the need died and rose to vanquish evil. to systema ze teaching to combat the ‣ CCC 39-43: Speaking of God. We can heresy of protestan sm. The Catechism speak of God but in a limited and in a ‣ Angels are spiritual, non-corporeal of the Council of Trent was addressed to human fashion. beings and have existed since crea on clergy; there were no seminaries yet and and throughout the history of salva on. priests were untrained so the catechism ‣ CCC 51-53: Revela on of God’s The angels are servants and messengers was promulgated to serve as manual for Goodness. He reveals Himself to give us of God. Beside each believer stands and priests. access to Him. He invites us to come to angel as protector and shepherd leading Him. God revealed himself to Adam, had him to life. The angels surrounded Christ ‣ Va can II had three areas of focus: a covenant with Noah, chose Abraham here on earth and a er His resurrec on publica on of the Liturgy (completed in to form the people of Israel, and gave us and ascension. 1976), comple on of the Canon Law in Jesus Christ, in the fullness of revela on. 1983, and the publica on of the A large number of parishioners have Catechism in 1992, which completed the ‣ CCC 54-55: In the Beginning. Adam and work of Va can II. The 26-year old regularly followed the series and plan to Eve were clothed with grace and jus ce. continue attending the next monthly Catechism is a summary of what we God’s design was destroyed because of believe as Catholics; it is a systema c sin but he promised redemp on meetings. 19 Catechetical Ministry Gathers More Volunteers
CTK’s Catechetical Ministry, headed by basic catechism lessons every 4th Communion, and Penance. Ditto with Alma Yeh and Sheryl Coronel, conducted Sunday from 9 am to 11 am. The Ladies Con irmation, which would have more or a ministry orientation and catechist of Charity scholars have sessions on the less the same preparatory class schedule formation workshop last June 29 for 1st Saturday (10 am to 12 noon, with as First Communion but would include eight volunteers. The objective is to grades 7-9 being given basic catechism the speci ic topics of con irmation and while grades 10 to college given Year of discipleship. Occasionally, the CTK the Clergy lessons from the Diocese) and Catechetical Ministry heads are able to 3rd Saturday (bible readings and invite San Jose Seminarians to assist with re lections from 9am to 11 am) of each small group re lections. In addition to an month. All these classes are from June to overview of topics covered during the March, which coincides with the con irmand classes, parents and schoolyear. sponsors of con irmands are given sessions to remind them of their The Flores de Mayo Classes, on the other responsibilities. The Ministry also Catechetical Ministry co-heads Alma Yeh, hand, take place during school summer arranges and organizes the actual First left, and Sheryl Coronel, right break, on all the weekdays of May. The Communion and Con irmation Rites. create a larger cadre of catechetical kids from Libis are annually invited to speakers and facilitators who can take on Once in a while, there will be converts to the full year’s schedule, which includes the Catholic faith and Sheryl and Alma the near weekly catechism classes for will take the lead in preparing them for scholars of both Ladies of Charity (LOC) adult baptism, con irmation and irst and Knights of Columbus (KOC), the daily communion. This usually involves a half May religion classes for Libis youth, and day session. the preparatory weekend classes for First Communion and Con irmation from Other opportunities exist but are September to November. attend, and classes are assisted by Libis currently not yet being pursued due to youth leaders. The CTK catechists lack of manpower. Those identi ied to Volunteers who attended last June 29 provide simple themed lessons based on date are: included: Ivy Yeh, Girl Valencia, Bunny Bible stories, lives of saints, gifts of the Gerochi, Ronnie Guerrero, Mary Jugo, Joy Holy Spirit, etc. They also get to do arts ‣ two Thursdays a month catechism Schallenberg, Eileen de Leon, and Nino and crafts and play religious-themed class at Libis Elementary School; Mendoza. They joined earlier volunteers games. The month long ‘school’ is capped Beth Monedero, Christine Bernardo, Joy by graduation rites at the end of the ‣ cateche cal outreach for St. Vincent Schallenberg, Christianne Pasquin, month. Home for Abused Girls; and Monette Najar, Elsbeth Llama, and Jane Aldeguer. The other major activity is the parish- wide First Communion and Con irmation ‣ two days a month regular catechism Sheryl and Alma began by explaining in November, which involves ive to six offerings for kids in interna onal or what the CTK Catechetical Ministry does, Sunday catechetical sessions in October secular schools, in collabora on with which is to provide catechetical the Youth Ministry. instruction and to prepare parishioners for speci ic sacraments, i.e., irst Alma and Sheryl then talked on ‘Why Be communion, con irmation and adult a Catechist’, which required a four-part baptism). They teach catechism to answer. Their short irst answer was scholars of Ladies of Charity and Knights ‘that people may come to faith’. A second of Columbus, from grades 7 to 12 as well answer was - to defend our Catholic faith from attacks’. Here, the ministry heads Above, first communicants at First Communion; talked about Catholic Apologetics, which below, confirmands confirmed by Monsignor is the theological art and science of Mortillero. presenting, explaining, and justifying the Catholic faith to atheists, agnostics, deists, Protestants, Evangelicals, Pentecostals, skeptics, critics, the ignorant and the confused. The third answer was - to defend against moral Catechetical session with the Ladies of Charity scholars relativism. And fourth answer was to be as college), the Libis children, ranging a part of God’s army in the spiritual from 8 to 12 years old, the First warfare against the powers of darkness. Communicants, Con irmands, parents The Catechetical Ministry heads and sponsors of children and youth concluded with the following advice: receiving the sacraments, and converts know your faith. Read the Bible. Read the to the Catholic faith. prior to the actual rites. Topics usually include: salvation history, grace and Catechism of the Catholic Faith. Then Knights of Columbus scholars have their sacraments, Holy Eucharist, the Mass, teach the faith. 20 CTK Youth Ministry Teams Up With Living Hope’s Timothy Ministry for August 11 ‘Day of Sacraments’ CTK’s Youth Ministry, headed by Louie that would minister to single ‘Let no one disregard you because you and Lei Abando, teamed up with the professionals. Today, Living Hope are young, but set an example for the Timothy Youth Ministry, headed by Trixie reaches out not only to single believers in the way you speak and Andres, for the ‘Day of Sacraments’ last professionals, but to married couples behave, in love, in faith and purity’. August 11, Saturday, from 1 pm to 3 pm and individuals, single parents, separated individuals, teens and young Last August 11’s afternoon event, called kids as well, both here and abroad. Day of Sacraments, was intended to bring the youth closer to the Eucharist. That The Timothy Ministry of the Living Hope morning, the volunteers held an outreach activity in Pineda, Pasig. Children from this impoverished purok comprise the adopted community of Living Hope since 2004. The volunteers then proceeded to CTK for Eucharistic at the Divine Mercy Chapel. CTK young adoration and parishioners from 13 years old and up confession. Before were invited to two hours of adoration, confession, the confession, worship, blessing and participants were also fellowship. Over 60 teenage youth and encouraged to go to Fr. Norman Kagaoan officiates Living Hope’s Timothy Ministry’s Day young professionals attended. Leading of Sacraments the intercessory the faith- illed devotion that afternoon ministry of Timothy, to was Fr. Norman Kagaoan, a former pray with them as they military chaplain and currently assigned lift up their current to Cainta. concerns.
The Timothy Ministry is the youth arm of That day was a day to the Living Hope Catholic Charismatic meet Christ in the poor Community and they meet every and in the Sacraments. Saturday from 3 to 6 pm at Christ the King. The journey of ‘Living Hope’ began Sonny and Mina Mejia in 1998, when three parishioners who Catholic Charismatic Community brings had been members of Living Hope for were active in CTK back then, Pauline together young men and women (ages quite some time and they introduced Peronilla-Cauton (daughter of Conse 13-21) who want to spend their youth in Trixie Andres, Timothy Ministry Adult Peronilla) Garet Cabrera, Liza Famador the best possible way: by knowing, head, to Lei and Louie Abando. Their loving and serving God. rationale was that since the group meets Aware that, youth at this age every Saturday at CTK, they may be able are subject to a lot of to help CTK’s Youth Ministry in gathering distractions, the ministry and animating the youth of the parish, aims to give direction and since starting a movement had proven to guidance to young people so be a challenge. Already, a number of CTK they can make everyday parish volunteers from Mustard Seed decisions in the light of their have started to attend the weekly prayer faith. The Timothy Ministry meeting. meets every Saturday 3-6 pm at Christ the King. They Currently, the members of Timothy come begin with fellowship and from different schools - Ateneo, Las Salle, worship followed by a talk Assumption Antipolo, Poveda and St. from an adult from the Paul. A number of them are regular CTK community. The participants massgoers and Mustard Seed Ministry are then divided into groups volunteers. to share among themselves, their reactions to and Recently, in meetings between Living comments on the talk. Hope’s Timothy Ministry with CTK’s Examples of topics are Catechetical Ministry represented by co- cardinal and spiritual heads Alma Yeh and Sheryl Coronel, a virtues, Sacrament of suggestion was made to have the (daughter of Ben and Linda Famador) reconciliation, Eucharist. candidates for con irmation attend the came together to establish a community The name ‘Timothy’ is lifted from the weekly prayer meetings of the Timothy Ministry's guiding verse, Timothy 4:12 - Ministry. 21 Seniors Encouraged to Look Good, Feel Good
It was a fun morning for seniors when with Bon’s next subject: Laughter Yoga. the Sunrise Ministry conducted its 2nd St. Matthew and Mark’s rooms General Assembly for 2018 last August resounded with so much laughter from 25, 2018 at the CTK Formation Center the Sunrise participants. with the theme: “Looking Good and Feeling Good.” Part 2, Looking Good, started with a short video presentation on the aging skin and how to remain looking good, courtesy of DermCare, which also had skin care giveaways for the participants. A volunteer “model” was selected from the audience for a free make-up session – and was presented later with a short discussion on how the make-up was
their loneliness. He thus expressed his thanks to the leadership and members of the Sunrise Ministry for organizing this apostolate. The event commenced with a Prayer- Meditation led by Dan and Vinchu Lapid. The Feeling Good segment began with a video demonstrating the positive effects A warm welcome by Ministry heads Doy of dancing, particularly on slowing down and Estrelle Lopez followed. They gave the onset of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. The seniors immediately put to practice what they just learned by enthusiastically dancing, with choreographer Mark Reniva leading. Everyone was up and swaying, including Nell Laudico with her “made-up” model: Dativa Fr. Steve and the super seniors. “Diding” Macarilay applied to enhance her features. A 10-minute lecture about the bene its of massage by Ms. Zeny Palisoc of The much-awaited ‘main event’ was a DermCare gave the participants a fashion show by CTK seniors – couples breather. She explained that massage and singles – which was coordinated by Prayer by Vinchu Lapid; Welcome and Program increases blood circulation and helps in Nell Laudico and annotated by Loung Overview by Doy and Estrelle Lopez detoxi ication by facilitating the release Cuartero with background music by Mon of trapped waste products of muscular Cuartero. The senior models sashayed metabolism. Then another dancing session, this time a tutorial on basic ballroom dancing by Mark and CTK’s own Auring Santos. Everybody grabbed a partner and followed the simple samba dance moves. To calm the dancers down, Bon Intengan demonstrated tai-chi, with the seniors The CTK Seniors fashion models: front from copying his moves. It was so much fun left: Regina, Baby Banal, Estrelle Lopez, Lulu del Mundo, Lulay dela Cruz, Auring Santos (partly hidden). Back: Linda Dayrit, Jorge Banal; Doy Lopez, Louie and Nell an overview of the entire morning’s Laudico, Norma Chico, Nina and Bon Intengan activities and assured everyone that it would be a fun- illed morning, with down the aisle in senior-appropriate everyone going home looking and feeling ensembles for good. different Laughter Yoga by Bon Intengan imitated by occasions. Fr. Steven Zabala expressed his joy to be senior participants with the seniors of the parish and shared As with how his own 94 year-old father longs for previous the company of friends and classmates, Seniors' most or all of whom are sadly no longer assemblies, around. Fr. Steve dwelt on and everyone went home with big emphasized the seniors’ need for Seniors get re-energized camaraderie and fellowship to counter smiles on their with a hearty snack of arroz faces. caldo and turon 22 Dry Run for Basic Ecclesial Communities (BEC) Sets BEC Libis Meets the Tone for Future Gatherings at Greenmeadows 1 with Fr. Steve Last August 29, a Wednesday, the newly- ‣ Read the Scripture. That could be formed Basic Ecclesial Community (BEC) today’s gospel or whatever the group of Greenmeadows 1 had its third meeting decides. (now monthly, from its previous every other month format). ‣ Everyone re lects on the reading. Did everyone understand the reading? As with the irst six GM1 BEC meetings, What verses struck you or resonated BEC coordinator Eileen de Leon, a First with your own experiences? can you Greenmeadows resident, identi ied identify with any of the characters BEC Libis held its irst meeting with Fr. speci ic homeowners to facilitate their involved? Does it trigger other Steve Zabala last August 30, Thursday bible study group. But what was different questions that lead to more morning, to get a clearer direction as to this time was that she invited the other discussion? his expectations regarding BEC in the Village Coordinators - of Acropolis, White Libis community. The BEC leaders from Plains, St. Ignatius, Libis, Corinthian ‣ Everyone shares relevant personal the six sitios, led by Ching Botero, were Gardens, and Enclave - to observe, experience. But note that these introduced by CTK BEC Coordinator especially since Fr. Steve Zabala, CTK’s sharing should be completely Eileen de Leon to Fr. Steve. parish priest, was going to help facilitate con idential so that members will and model how he thinks the BEC in the continue to share in the future. exclusive villages might work, centered around study of the Bible. ‣ End with a prayer and fellowship. Fr. Steve Meets and Greets the New PPC Members For that evening, Fr. Steve walked them through and guided the Fr. Steve Zabala met with the newest participants in the BEC bible study, group of incoming Parish Pastoral Council using the gospel for the day, the members last Saturday morning, ‘beheading of St. John the Baptist’, as September 8, at 10 am. the focal point of the gathering. Fr. Steve’s own re lection - John the In his opening prayer, Fr. Steve thanked Baptist was beheaded because he the Lord for the new volunteers. The wasn’t afraid to speak the truth. With group had coffee and snacks with Fr. his beheading, his disciples may have Steve before they formally introduced lost their leader but it did pave the themselves to him and to each other. way for them to follow Jesus. The incoming PPC members included: In the printed material that he provided, it became clear to the ‣ Cen Hernando, Grand Knight of CTK Knights of attendees that: Columbus ‣ Tone e Arizabal of CTK Ladies of Charity Thirty people attended the August 29 the BEC was neighborhood-based BEC meeting at Greenmeadows 1. In the ‣ ‣ Chit Pascual of CTK Legion of Mary, the BEC is centered in the Word of Immaculate Heart of Mary Presidium meeting, Fr. Steve irst explained what ‣ God ‣ Carol de Jesus of CTK Legion of Mary, Mary BEC meant - ‘basic’ which meant it ‣ the BEC is not inward-looking but Queen of Peace Presidium should start at the grassroots; ‘ecclesial’, responds to the community’s socio- ‣ Cerrie Paterno and Virgie Abas llas, village meaning it had to be connected to the political-economic needs coordinators for La Maison Townhomes church; and ‘community’, which meant ‣ the BEC is tightly linked to the parish ‣ Beth Monedero, joining Jeane e Cagurangan there must be a gathering of people. church as co-head of Greeters and Collectors ‣ Charito Barredo, replacing Baby Banal as Fr. Steve discussed his dream that there village coordinator for St. Igna us, joining ‘It was a great evening, a good ‘dry run’ Lulay de la Cruz will be an active BEC in each of the gated for how future BEC gatherings in the Marius & Ellen Cobarrubias, replacing Mon subdivisions; that eager and willing other villages might take shape,’ ‣ neighbors gather to listen to the Word of and Loung Cuartero as head of Diwanihan explained Eileen. ‘Fr. Steve explained the Kris yano CTK effec ve January 1, 2019. God; and that there would be ideally one gospel, guided the participants through structure or format for all the villages. the meditation, and facilitated the And what would that look like? sharing. This structure or pattern could be adopted by the other villages.’ ‣ A facilitator would be assigned for each bible meeting, who will start When asked what her most ardent wish with an opening prayer. was as far as her new role as BEC Coordinator was concerned, Eileen ‣ Play appropriate music to set the answered, ‘Simple lang. I would like to mood for prayer and a deeper see increased awareness for BEC.’ encounter with the Lord.
23 St. Ignatius Celebrates CTK Christian Family Movement and Reaches Out Holds General Assembly
Saint Ignatius Village celebrated its feast in honor of village patron saint St. Ignatius de Loyola last July 29. The SIV homeowners association, headed by Jorge Banal and assisted by the barangay and various mandated organizations including Buklod ng Panginoon (BNP), gathered as a community to organize the Fiesta Mass and Community Breakfast Celebration, capping the nine-day novena masses for St. Ignatius. This year’s celebration theme was ‘Unity in the Community’. The Christian Family Movement, CTK re lection, ‘A Stopover in Our Prayer Chapter, held its General Assembly last Journey’, or, ‘Relearning How to Pray’. July 2 at St. Luke Room, from 8:30 to 10:00 am. Their guest speaker, Grace Grace Marquez is a professional staff at Marquez, shared her re lection on the Ruben Tanseco Center for Family inding and giving meaning to prayer. She Ministries where she is involved in its referred to her short re lection as ‘A Parenting Cluster and its Resilience Stopover in Our Prayer Journey’. Fr. Steve Program team. Apart from giving talks, Zabala dropped in to listen to Ms. recollections and short programs on Marquez’s message. family and pastoral themes, Ms. Marquez also does counseling. Starting 2018, she Have you ever wondered why we pray, begun teaching at the MFI Polytechnic and have you ever stopped to think how Institute, formerly the Meralco we can make it better? That was what Foundation. in 2017, Grace earned her Grace tried to answer when she shared MA in Pastoral Ministry, specializing in her re lections on inding and giving Family Ministry and Counselling at the meaning to prayer. She called her short Ateneo de Manila University. The iesta mass was celebrated by none other than new parish priest Fr. Steve Zabala. The community breakfast Life In the Spirit Weekend followed. The 2018 Life in the Spirit Seminar Last July 14, St. Ignatius Village-based Weekend was held last September 15 renewal movement Buklod ng Panginoon and 16, Saturday and Sunday, at the or BnP, held its medical outreach CTK Parish Social Hall with 49 program in cooperation with ProLAB. participants. The LSS Seminar Weekend Priced very low, the medical exam was conducted by Fr. Larry Tan SVD attracted so many from the village who and was the 15th such weekend since it came to avail of the services. BNP offered started at CTK. cheese bread, spanish bread and LSS 15 was sponsored by the CTK Life in There were three major talks - on coffee for the the Spirit Community, a prayer group that meets every Monday evening at the salvation, on Gods’ gifts (Saturday, both clients and arroz by Fr. Larry Tan), and on growth (Sunday, caldo for the Divine Mercy Chapel for worship and healing prayer. The Monday evening by Fr. Steve Zabala). There were also medical and several testimonial sessions - by singles, village staff. BnP prayer are open to the public. The prayer couples, and a solo parent. Group president Cita group is currently headed by Bobby and Margie San Juan. discussions were part of the lunches, snacks, and Saturday dinner. The 49 attendees, or ‘lambs’, some of The Life in the Spirit weekend ended them DermCare employees, had signed with the Commissioning Rites that up for orientation and shepherding at one of the Monday evenings leading up included the distribution of salt, candles to LSS Weekend. and pins. Aside from the San Juans, major movers Both days began with anointing of the of LSS 15 included Pepe and Billie Pilar, Pabillo was assisted by Myrna Delena, Fe several dozen ‘shepherds’, most being Reyes, Mameng Rivera, and other members of the LSS prayer community Jess de la Fuente, Gigi Mantaring, Vinchu members of BnP. or graduates of previous LSS weekends, Lapid, Mila del Fonso, Zeny Palisoc, Jun followed by registration-breakfast. and Techie Yumul. 24 LOC Starts Another H o u s e k e e p i n g LOC Elects New Officers Livelihood Program Last August 4, the newly-elected of icers of the Ladies of Charity - Christ the King The CTK Ladies of Charity began their Chapter - had their oath taking at the third 2018 livelihood training, the Divine Mercy Chapel, by CTK parish Housekeeping Training Course, at priest Fr. Steve Zabala. Barangay E. Rodriguez, last July 2, with an orientation talk that drew 18 Elected President was Tonette Arizabal, participants from the barangay. The
replacing Fe Pery. Mambie Aquino was sworn in as Vice President, Beth Monedero took her oath as Treasurer, and Lynne Rodriguez assumed the position of Secretary. Eileen de Leon and Christine Bernardo were also sworn in as Assistant Secretaries. Ladies of Charity Resumes Feeding Program The Ladies of Charity started their 2018-2019 feeding program at Libis Elementary School upon the resumption livelihood program is headed by Teri of classes last June. LOC of icers Mila Floro, Tonette Arizabal, Narcing Bangco, Tessie Fajardo, Elvie Balmeo, Malatuba. and Eileen de Leon met with the new Below, LOC officers Mila Bangco, Tessie principal, Ma’am Janice Palaran. Fajardo and Elvie Balmeo with LES principal Recently, LOC conducted catechism Janice Palaran classes for the trainees. Teaching them were Ronnie Guerrero, Eileen de Leon, and Beth Monedero.
An innovation introduced was requiring Eileen de Leon pose with livelihood the grades 1 and 2 pupils to wash their participants after catechism class hands before eating. In addition, the It will be recalled that the LOC ladies feeding center was recently screened up, already had two back-to-back Hilot courtesy of LOC’s Sonia Ongkiko. Massage livelihood programs in 2018. The irst batch graduated last April 3. The second batch, held for Barangay Krus na Ligas, completed their training in June and had their ‘graduation’ at CTK last July 2, with Fr. Serge Maniba giving Libis Elem feeding recipients learn to wash the inspirational talk. Most of the their hands before eating. graduates had already found employment with the Teachers Village branch of Nuat Thai.
As before, training was in partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, or TESDA. The training is being held every Wednesday and Friday from 8 am to 5 pm and will wrap up by late September. September 28 has been identi ied as the TESDA graduation date. 25 Welcoming Fr. Jojo Gatdula to the CTK Fold
If you’ve noticed a new priest giving people, and helping build ecclesial lively parish. There are committed lay several of the weekend masses and most communities inspired me to go on. My leaders; parish pastoral programs are of the weekday afternoon masses and drive towards the priestly life has also carried out. There has been on-going speaking in very crisp and clear English, been encouraged by the presence of the formations for the parishioners then you’ve seen, and heard, Christ the other priests in our local church, especially on the doctrine of the Church.’ King Parish Greenmeadows’ newest especially the SVD missionaries.’ As for the parishioners, Fr. Jojo said, resident guest priest, Fr. Giovanni ‘ Jojo’ ‘Parishioners, in general, are kind and M. Gatdula, a Diocesan priest of the Fr. Jojo was ordained a priest by Bishop generous. I have already met several Apostolic Vicariate of San Jose, which Antonio P. Palang, SVD DD on March 25, parishioners involved in the service of covers Occidental Mindoro. 2004 at the Holy Cross Parish, Sta. Cruz, the church who are persons of goodwill. Occidental Mindoro. After ordination, he They strike me as pious, disciplined and was assigned as parochial vicar at the obedient in terms of practicing the Cathedral of San Jose, Mindoro. The Catholic way of life.’ following year, he was given his own parish - St Joseph, Spouse of Mary Parish, He continued, ‘The church itself is very Central, San Jose, Occidental Mindoro - conducive for liturgy. The parish where he stayed on as parish priest for environment is a good place for eight years. Concurrently, he served as re lection, meditation and prayers.’ parochial school director of the Holy Family Academy parochial school. We asked Fr. Jojo what he thought of his new parish priest. ‘Fr Steve is like ‘The assignment to San Isidro Labrador brother to me,’ he explained. ‘He has the Parish was unexpected, Fr. Jojo admitted. capacity to understand the person in his ‘I hesitated but out of obedience to the particular condition. He can show great bishop’s will, I complied. It turned out to empathy towards the person. He is a be my most rewarding assignment.’ seasoned pastor and administrator.’
When asked what gave him the most We turned to the topic of family life. ‘My rewarding moments in his relatively father was a government employee young career, Fr. Jojo quickly answered: turned politician until his tragic death in ’Every liturgical celebration of the Holy 2004. My mother is a retired teacher. I Mass is rewarding. So is the formation of am the third of nine siblings - ive boys lay leaders. There were two Fr. Jojo Gatdula with the EMHCs who served at his first CTK projects that gave me great mass Since May, 2014, Fr. Jojo had been the satisfaction. One was the parish priest of San Isidro Labrador introduction of informal Parish in Tagbac, Lubang, Occidental tithing in my parish, which Mindoro. Then, last year, he was asked we called ‘Pondong by the newly-installed Apostolic Pastoral’; the other was the Administrator, Bishop David William construction of the new Antonio, to pursue his Licentiate in parish building. ‘ Canon Law at the University of Sto. Tomas, Manila. Through the kindness of On what he sees are the Rev. Fr. Aris Sison, then Rector of major challenges of the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Fr. church, Fr. Jojo quickly cited Jojo was introduced to Bishop Honesto - time management on the Ontioco who accepted him as a guest part of the priests; lack of priest, temporarily assigned to the lay volunteers and support Cathedral. After just a year, he was personnel; and on-going transferred to Christ the King Parish formation and catechesis. Greenmeadows. ‘I am truly grateful to Fr. and four girls. It has been the family’s Steve Zabala for accommodating me in Fr. Jojo has two more years left to his dream and challenge that we should all this parish while inishing my studies’, Licentiate program. ‘I plan to stay at the inish college. And it was ful illed. said Fr. Jojo. CTK for the duration of my studies. Yes, I Though inancially hard-up, my parents am happy and privileged to serve CTK as were able to ind ways to ful ill that goal.’ When asked how and when he irst resident priest.’ And after that? ‘After my heard God’s call, Fr. Jojo answered, ‘I studies, I’m going back to our local When asked why and how he was given entered the seminary at the age of 12. My church - the Apostolic Vicariate of San the name ‘Giovanni’, Fr. Jojo answered, only objective then was to study. But as Jose,’ Fr. Jojo answered. ‘My father named me Giovanni after the time went on, the call to the priesthood Italian author, poet, scholar and one of grew louder and harder to ignore. The Fr. Jojo had only positive words the founders of the Renaissance, possibility of serving the Church, regarding his impressions of Christ the Giovanni Boccaccio, who wrote the becoming a servant-leader to God’s King Parish Greenmeadows. ‘CTK is a world-famous Decameron.’ 26
continued from page 1 CTK Stopover for Philippine Tour of Padre Pio Relics invitation in order to encourage the sick Pio said he would have preferred to and devotees of Padre Pio. The irst time suffer in secret, by early 1919, news for his relics to be brought over was in about the stigmatic friar began to spread 2016. This year is deemed special since in the secular world. it’s both 100 years of his stigmatization (which began in September 1918) and The visit of his relics began last July 31 at it's 50 years since his death (September the St. Pio Chapel in Libis. This was 1968). followed by visits to - ABS-CBN; St. Michael in BGC; St. James in Ayala St. Pio was a Alabang; Resurrection of Our Lord in BF friar, priest, Homes, Paranaque; Our Lady Of Lourdes, stigmatist, and Caloocan; Valle Verde 6 chapel; Lourdes mystic, now Church, QC; Tarlac Cathedral; Baguio; venerated as a Bacolod City; Iloilo City; Cebu; Bohol; saint of the Santuario de San Antonio, Forbes Park; Catholic Church. Don Bosco, Makati; Greenbelt Chapel; Born Francesco Santuario de San Jose, Greenhills; Our Forgione, he was Lady of Beautiful Love, Merville; Sacred given the name Heart Parish, Alabang - before the visit of Pius (Pio in to Christ the King Parish Greenmeaodws Italian) when he last September 7. CTK was the last visit joined the Order before the relics of Friars Minor were brought Old photo of Fr. Pio with stigmata Capuchin. back to St. Pio Chapel in Libis Padre Pio became famous for exhibiting prior to going stigmata for most of his life, thereby back to Italy. The generating much interest and CTK visit was controversy. He was both beati ied organized and (1999) and canonized (2002) by Pope arranged by John Paul II. Couples for Christ-CTK chapter. It just so happened that one of the Volontariato de Manila of icers was Venette Bertulfo, also a CFC CTK member who was able to insert CTK as the Province of Foggia, Italy. last stop for the relics.
On September 20, 1918, while hearing The irst class relics displayed include confessions, Padre Pio had his irst Padre Pio’s scabs, nails, and locks of hair occurrence of the stigmata: bodily marks, pain, and bleeding in locations corresponding to the cruci ixion wounds of Jesus Christ. This phenomenon CFC-CTK Chapter’s crowd management marshals continued for ifty in full force years, until the end of his life. The blood lowing from the stigmata purportedly smelled of perfume or lowers, a phenomenon mentioned in stories of the The Sanctuary of Saint Pio of Pietrelcina lives of several saints and often referred is located in San Giovanni Rotondo, to as the odour of sanctity. Though Padre continued on next page 27 CTK Stopover for Philippine Tour of Padre Pio Relics continued from previous page MESSAGE FROM Couples for Christ personnel had THE EDITORs organized their crowd management effectively, there was no disorder and the As the first HERALD to be published under two thousand pilgrims were ‘processed’ new parish priest Fr. Steve Zabala, it’s fi ng in just one hour. It was so ef icient that to feature his very first official mass at CTK several people who stayed on were able and his fellowship with the parishioners who to view the relics twice or thrice. 76 CFC were excited to meet their new ‘shepherd’, on Top, CFC CTK Chapter head Glen Ubaldo confers page 3. with marshal on crowd flow. Below, CFC-CTK’s members attended, most of whom PPC representative Eddie Salonga and Alex Albert, CFC CTK’s music ministry head. volunteered as marshals, for crowd control. Other CFC groups included CFC- If there’s to be only one headline, it would Mary the Queen Chapter, CFC-Meralco have to be the launch of the eight-year eight- Chapter, and the 29 AD Choir. point priority agenda of the Diocese of Cubao. Hence we cover not only the launch CFC-CTK Chapter is led by Glen and on page 8 but provide a two page summary (page 9) of ‘DCPA 8’. But also as newsworthy Girlie Ubaldo and represented in the was the groundbreaking for the Casa de Parish Pastoral Council by Eddie and Silencio priest re rement home and renewal while the second class relics include his Cecile Salonga. center project, see page 11. gloves and the cloth used to clean his wounds from the stigmata. In July, the parishioners said goodbye to two guest priest stalwarts, Fr. Serge Maniba and The evening mass before the display was Fr. Ricky Montañez, page 5. We did say hello celebrated by Fr. Jojo Gatdula together to Fr. Jun Arvie Bello (see page 6), but only to with Msgr. Antonio Mortillero and Fr. Above, the 29 A.D. Choir. Below, the CFC say goodbye again in August as he le for marshals pose with Fr. GianMaria. Rightmost GianMaria. At the end of the mass, Fr. is Venette Bertulfo of Volontariato. further studies. The good news is - we have a Jojo, on behalf of parish priest Fr. Steve new resident guest priest, Fr. Jojo Gatdula, Zabala, thanked Fr. Gian for bringing the whom we introduce on page 26. relics over and giving the parishioners a chance to view them. There were several excep onal talks during the quarter just passed. Fr. Arvie gave a An estimated two thousand people came scholarly talk at the LeCom General Assembly last Friday, September 7. But since the on the Gospels and their writers (see page 16); Fr. Bong Tupino, just before he le , discussed Pope Francis’ Apostolic Exhorta on: Gaudete et Exsultate, which called for Coffee After Church Snapshots holiness in today’s world, at the EMHC Monthly Forma on Talk Series, on page 13; and Chief Exorcist Fr. Jocis Syquia ensured an unforge able evening as he talked on ‘Spiritual Combat: Being a Warrior for Christ’ the following month, also for EMHC, page 14. The Forma on Ministry launched the Sept 2, hosted by BEC team of Eileen de Leon, Rediscovering Our Catholic Faith, a monthly Irene Robles, Maan del Rosario, and Leila Banico series of talks by renowned catechist expert Aug 12, hosted by Christian Family MovementAug 12, hosted by Christian Family Movement headed by Leo and May Nitorreda Fr. Jigs Rosalinda (covered on page 19). The Sunrise Ministry had another field day with it’s ‘Looking Good, Feeling Good’ seniors’ assembly, page 22. Our top feature story, on page 27, was the visit of Padre Pio’s relics at Christ the King Parish Church Greenmeadows, the last stop before the relics went back to Aug 26, hosted by Life in the Spirit group Italy. headed by Bobby San Juan & Margie San Juan
July 29, hosted by Catholic Women’s League There were so many other stories that we head Alma Yeh and BEC head Eileen de Leon used up the maximum 28 pages. As usual, we thank all our report and photo contributors - Althea Geronilla, Estrelle Lopez, Leila Banico, Eileen de Leon, Agnes dela Cruz, Cita Pabillo, Sheryl Coronel, Wins Mirasol, Fely Ong, Leo Nitorreda, Albert Cuadrante, and Mina Mejia.
July 15, hosted by Legion of Mary - Mary Aug 19, hosted by Diwanihang Kristiyano of Queen of Peace presidium headed by Carol de Bing and Elise del Rosario Mon and Loung Cuartero Jesus Media In-charge
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