A3 to close Year B1 FABC: From C1 The CROSS • for in • Daejeon to • A Supplement Publication of KCFAPI with huge meeting and Beyond and the Order of the

Bishop Jumoad: ‘No Bishop appeals for flood dialogue’ with Abu Sayyaf relief in Zambales TROUBLED over the latest violence in Basi- THE storm-hit of Iba in Zambales has lan, a Catholic bishop has issued his severest launched an appeal for aid to help hundreds statement yet denouncing the bloody clash people displaced by floods. between military forces and al-Qaeda-linked Floods caused by Typhoon “Kiko” has left Abu Sayyaf. some 1,1936 residents of Botolan town home- In radio interview, Bishop Martin Jumoad less after the flood control dike in Bancao River called on authorities to pursue the bandits, say- collapsed from continuous heavy rains. ing that there is no room for negotiation with a Iba Bishop Florentino Lavarias said flood group like the Abu Sayyaf. waters came from Mt. Pinatubo where five He said the government must unleash more persons, including three French tourists, died troops with a mission to finish off the militant group because of landslides. in the southern provinces of Basilan and Sulu. According to Zambales’ Regional Disaster 00 Abu Sayyaf / A6 August 17 - 30, 2009 Vol. 13 No. 17 Php 20. Zambales / A6 © Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media © Roy Lagarde / CBCP Papal envoy Francis Cardinal Arinze, (center) holding staff, and other from across Asia line up for a group photo outside Manila Cathedral after a Eucharist celebration to formally start the 9th plenary assembly of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences in Manila, August 11, 2009. Eucharist must ‘transform’ Catholics—Asian bishops By Roy Lagarde Bicol bishops THE Asian bishops’ meeting in Manila ended Aug. 16 with a call to the clergy for an effec- all out vs coal tive proclamation of the Word of God. mine project Greater duty, they said in a statement, ROMAN Catholic bishops in Bicol re- starts from the clergy in ensuring that gion are all out against the planned coal the proclamation of the Scripture is at mining project in the region alleging the heart of each of the reformed litur- that it would destroy ecology. gical rites. Despite strong opposition from In a continent where is a church leaders and residents of Catand- very small minority, the celebration of uanes province to Monte Oro Resources the Eucharist is the most effective mis- and Energy Inc., the mine still obtained sionary act that the Ecclesial community green light from the Department of can perform for its flocks, they said. Energy. From delivering sermons to other Sorsogon Bishop Arturo Bastes said parts of the Mass, the Asian prel- mining has “ripped apart” the ecologi- ates said, its main purpose should be cal, cultural and social fabric of many underscored—the transformation of communities in Bicol where there is those who receive it in authentic com- mining. munion. He criticized the government for “We remind all those who are en- adhering to business interests over trusted with the ministry of animating the welfare of the people who suffer the Eucharistic communities, especially much from the “ill effects” of mining priests, that they have a great respon- operations. © Noli Yamsuan / RCAM Yamsuan © Noli sibility to make the Eucharist a trans- During a Mass formally closing the FABC 9th Plenary Assembly on August 16 at the Pius XII auditorium, Francis Cardinal Arinze told the bishops to “Once you engage in mining, you Eucharist / A6 rediscover the centrality of Eucharist and inculcate among the faithful the significance of devout listening to the Word. Coal mine / A6 CBCP urges national prayer for peace in

AMID the growing tension in Southern , the Catholic country lessens the peace in other parts because we are all ‘broth- bishops’ leadership urged the clergy and the faithful to offer prayers ers,’” he added. for peace there. The number of killed soldiers angered President Gloria Maca- The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) pagal-Arroyo and called for “annihilation” on Saturday of the is encouraging a national prayer in Mindanao, said its president renegade group. Archbishop Angel Lagdameo August 17. But the CBCP head said the move will never solve the problem. Intense fighting between the government troopers and Abu Sayyaf Much worse, it could even fuel more turmoil and jeopardize the bandits in Basilan since Wednesday have claimed 54 lives and left peace process,” he added. at least 22 others wounded. “In the context of war, no one wins,” he said. The Armed Forces of the Philippines said 31 bandits were killed “Violence, retaliation and annihilation create more anger while the military suffered 23 fatalities. in both parties and destroy the seeds of past peace processes. “For peace in Basilan and other parts of Mindanao, the CBCP ap- Peace cannot result from violence and retaliation,” the church peals for prayer for all the victims and their bereft families. We ask leader said. for prayers and Masses for them,” Lagdameo said. “The victims of such violence and retaliation are innocent lives of “In a certain sense, the situation of “unpeace” in one part of the victims,” Lagdameo also said. (CBCPNews) CBCP to ‘monitor’ Bishop wants to ban ‘Banana’ A CHURCH official wants to ban some pop songs "That will affect their thinking and their concept from radio stations, including the latest hit “Ba- of morality regarding those matters," he said. CARPer implementation nana” song. He also called on music composers to think first CATHOLIC bishops said they will keep watchful Malacañang said the signing of Republic “The song has a meaning that is sexual,” of the negative effects of the lyrics to the eyes on the implementation of a law extending Act 9700 or CARP extension with reform is the said Kalookan Bishop Deogracias young listeners. the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program government’s response to the plea of farmers to Iñiguez over Church-run Radyo "I think those composers should with reforms. extend the program, which expired last year. Veritas. have social responsibilities," Iñiguez Archbishop Angel Lagdameo, president of The CARPer law has a P100-billion allocation Songs like that, he said, in- added. (CBCPNews) the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philip- for land acquisition and distribution, support ser- cluding another hit “Nag- pines, said “guarding” the program is necessary vices, agrarian justice delivery and other funding mamahal Ako ng Bakla (I’m to ensure the allotted budget goes to intended requirements during the extension period. Loving Gay Men)” has a beneficiaries. Mrs. Arroyo signed the bill into law at the Don double meaning. “Its implementation must be guarded in favor Cesario San Diego Gym in Plaridel, Bulacan. “They should be banned of the farmers. The money allotted for it must be Lagdameo said they are “pleased” with the because of its sexual- used with accountability and justice,” he said. approval of the law, adding that it would cause ly explicit lyrics,” said Basilan Bishop Martin Jumoad said they are a “better quality of life of the rural poor.” Bishop Iñiguez who also hoping that the concerned government agencies “Thank God, CARP extension plus reform is heads the Committee will work to implement the law. approved and signed,” he said. on Public Affairs of “There are no sacred cows to be spared, be- CBCP Public Affairs Committee Chairman the Catholic Bishops’ cause as we know the lands belong to many and Kalookan Bishop Deogracias Iniguez, for his Conference of the powerful politicians,” he said. part, said it’s a for the farmers particu- Philippines. “We will closely monitor the implementation larly those without their own lands to till. The bishop of this CARP law,” added Jumoad. “We are thankful that President Arroyo fi- feared that the President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on Aug. nally signed the CARPer because this has been songs could lure 7 signed the consolidated version of the bill ex- the farmers’ long-time dream. This is really for most teenagers to tending CARP for another five years. them,” he said. (CBCPNews) engage in casual sex. Illustration by Bladimer Usi CBCP Monitor A2 Vol. 13 No. 17 World News August 17 - 30, 2009 Vatican newspaper says Allied gov’ts did little to stop Holocaust , August 14, 2009—In a lengthy article, the credited with saving tens of thousands of Jewish lives. But for 18 Vatican newspaper said the U.S. and British governments months before then, despite increasingly alarming reports, U.S. had detailed information about the Nazi plan to exterminate officials “dodged their grim responsibility, procrastinated when European Jews during World War II, but failed to act for many concrete rescue schemes were placed before them, and even sup- months and even suppressed reports about the extent of the pressed information about atrocities,” Morgenthau wrote. Holocaust. The Vatican newspaper article also cited a series of State The newspaper, L’Osservatore Romano, contrasted Allied in- Department orders apparently aimed at preventing reports on action with the quiet efforts undertaken by Pope Pius XII to save Nazi atrocities from reaching the public, which would have as many Jews as possible through clandestine assistance. increased pressure on the administration for action. The article, published Aug. 13, reviewed historical informa- When the U.S. government was finally convinced to begin tion in support of an argument frequently made by Vatican some efforts to rescue and relocate European Jews, the British experts: While critics have focused on Pope Pius’ supposed government stalled, the article said. It cited a British Foreign “silence” on the Holocaust, little attention has been given to Office cable that warned of “the difficulties of disposing of documented evidence that the U.S. and British governments any considerable number of Jews should they be rescued from ignored or minimized reports of extermination plans. enemy occupied territory” and advised against allocating any The article quotes heavily from the diary of Henry Morgen- funds for the project. thau Jr., U.S. secretary of the treasury during the war, who said Morgenthau described this message as “a satanic combina- that as early as August 1942 administration officials “knew tion of British chill and diplomatic double talk, cold and correct that the Nazis were planning to exterminate all the Jews of and adding up to a sentence of death.” Europe.” The Vatican newspaper said that, while all this was going Morgenthau cited a telegram dated Aug. 24, 1942, and passed on, in Nazi-occupied Rome Pope Pius was carrying out “the on to the State Department, that relayed a report of Hitler’s plan only plausible and practical form of defense of the Jews and to kill between 3.5 million and 4 million Jews, possibly using © www.timeinc.net other persecuted people” –hiding them in various church-run cyanide poison. The Vatican newspaper reproduced a copy of the telegram. institutions. In the end, although more than 2,000 Jews were deported from Rome and killed, about Eventually, in early 1944, U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt set up the War Refugee Board that was 10,000 Jews of Rome were saved, it said. (John Thavis / Catholic News Service) Chilean bishops propose Cardinal applauds Church Jubilee Indult to mark for interreligious dialogue country’s bicentennial VATICAN CITY, August 14, 2009—A top During his trip, the French-born cardinal SANTIAGO, Chile, August 14, 2009—During a cordial meeting Vatican official has commended the Catholic also participated in religious services at Hi- on Wednesday with President Michele Bachelet, the executive Church in Japan for its efforts at fostering roshima and , where the committee of the Chilean Bishop’s Conference proposed a “Ju- interreligious dialogue. dropped atomic bombs for the first time in bilee Indult” for prisoners in order to mark Chile’s bicentennial Cardinal Jean-Louis Pierre Tauran, head of 1945. celebration of independence in 2010. the Vatican’s Pontifical Council for Interreli- “It is beyond words to see what man is During the meeting which was described as “amicable and gious Dialogue was speaking in an interview capable of doing!” he said. However, he also productive,” the bishops discussed a wide range of issues af- with Aug. 12, following his stressed the importance of remembering fecting the country with President Bachelet. return from a trip to Japan. what happened here, so as “to avoid” similar “Among other issues discussed, we presented to Madam In Japan, he said, Catholic dialogue with happenings in the future. President some of our expectations for the upcoming Bicentennial other religions is carried out “at the level of He was greatly impressed too, he said, by Independence Celebration and told her of the Church’s interest the local Churches, not at the top (leadership) the Japanese martyrs of the 16th and 17th that it be an occasion for the whole of Chilean society to reflect levels; (but) at the levels of the parishes, centuries and the sufferings they endured. on the great values that characterize our peaceful life together,” schools and universities.” “Beyond doubt,” he said, this is a Church the bishops said. The in Japan has “a whose roots are to be found in the blood of They also presented Bachelet with their idea of granting a “Ju- prestigious range of schools and universi- the martyrs. bilee Indult” to those who have been “condemned by the courts ties,” he said, “and these furnish a terrain Japan’s Catholic Church has 1 million of justice” and said they would soon lay out a “concrete proposal” of spontaneous dialogue of life between the members but half of them are foreigners. that could be put before the Chilean people for consideration. different religions.” The cardinal said he reminded Japan’s The bishops expressed gratitude for the good will Chileans He said he was very impressed by the Catholics that they have “a weighty inheri- have shown toward their proposal, which stems from “our gospel fact that all this dialogue “is developed in tance that must bear fruit” and urged them mandate in keeping with one of the oldest traditions of the Bible harmony.” to pray “that it bears good fruit.” and of our country’s history.” He also applauded the decision of the Cardinal Tauran also pointed out that Pope The Jubilee Indult could involve the release of prisoners who Japanese Catholic Church to hold an annual Benedict XVI has made dialogue between the took part on both sides of dictator Augusto Pinochet’s “dirty day of prayer for interreligious dialogue, in Catholic Church and other religions in Asia war,” which involved a brutal crack down on dissidents and which all parishes throughout the country “one of the priorities of his pontificate.” citizens in the 1970s and 80s. (CNA) discuss such dialogue and pray for it. Cardinal Jean-Louis Pierre Tauran “Interreligious dialogue is above all a The cardinal was in Japan Aug. 2-10 and met Japanese Catholic pilgrimage toward truth,” he said. bishops as well as leading representatives of the Shinto, Buddhist Sources in Rome told UCA News that as the Vatican’s representa- and Islamic faiths. tive for dialogue with the other religions, Cardinal Tauran is giving Zhengding priests hide, pressured Reflecting on that visit he said he was struck by the fact that “re- greater attention to Asia and its religions this year. ligion is everywhere” in Japan. He traveled in June to India for meetings with some of the country’s to join patriotic association He noted that the Japanese “were born into Shintoism” and “prac- top Hindu religious leaders as well as leaders of other religions. HONG KONG, August 17, tice Buddhism” and because of this, “there is a kind of religious In July, he traveled to Kazakhstan and participated in a workshop 2009—Catholics in Zhengding amalgamation and this gives one the impression that religion is a on “Moral and Spiritual Values, World Ethics,” at the Third Congress diocese were forced to hold some part of the social fabric.” of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions. He also has plans to Masses before dawn on Aug. 15, He said “What struck me is that the Japanese in their religion do visit other Asian countries later this year. the Feast of the Assumption of not look for an absolute truth but (they seek) rather a sort of pacifica- Sources say the Holy Father is considering making his first visit Mary, as official pressure on tion with regard to the trials of life.” as pope to Asia in the next 18 months. (UCAN) their “underground” priests grows, said sources. Catholic sources say local of- ficials have pressured the “un- Mexican bishop extremely saddened derground” priests in Zhengding and some other in Hebei province to join the Catholic Patri- otic Association (CPA) with each by fatal accident he caused given a so-called “ card.” MEXICO CITY, Mexico, August 14, 2009— a post and had run over several individuals. Public security officers have The Diocese of Cordoba in Mexico has Police officers helped him out of the vehicle taken away some priests “one- by-one” to “talk” with them, expressed sadness over an accident caused and said he was extremely upset and showed Bishop Julius Jia Zhiguo by Bishop Eduardo Patino Leal, who fainted signs of hypertension and dizziness. He had the sources say. while driving. The accident left five people also injured his right hand in the accident. To avoid this, one “underground” priest of Zhengding said he injured and one person dead. The diocese said Bishop Patino is very had changed his Mass time to 3:30 a.m. on Aug. 15. “Unexpect- The diocese said Bishop Patino was driv- saddened by the incident and has offered his edly, more Catholics participated as some from other villages ing his pickup on the way to a meeting when prayers and sincere apologies to the family attended,” he said. he fainted and ran over six people. One of members of the victims. “He joins his sor- The priest said the numbers at his Mass had grown as other the bystanders was killed. The bishop suffers row to that of each of them as if they were priests were forced into hiding. “More persecution will only from diabetes, which officials said was prob- his own family,” the statement said. make our faithful more devout,” he stated. ably the cause of his fainting spell. Bishop Patino offered his full cooperation Father Hu Baoguo, vicar general of Zhengding, was reportedly When he regained consciousness, Bishop to police in their investigation of the incident. released in early August after weeks of detention, during which he refused to sign an agreement to join the CPA. Bishop Eduardo Patino Leal Patino realized he had crashed his pickup into (CNA) He is said to be under strict surveillance and government officials often talk to him about “doing ideological work,” said sources. Many of Zhengding’s 80 priests have gone into hiding in lay- New Bangkok archbishop calls for social cohesion people’s houses since June, with regular Masses and pastoral work affected. Nevertheless, priests continue to celebrate Mass secretly. BANGKOK, Thailand, August and Russian Orthodox Church Bishop George Yod Phim- priest of Assumption Cathedral “We have returned to the ‘underground’ era of the late 1980s,” 17, 2009—Newly installed Arch- representatives, government of- phisan of Udon Thani, president and secretary of the council of sources said. “Our priests are perplexed and don’t know what to bishop Kriengsak ficials and many lay Catholics of the Catholic Bishops' Con- priests of Bangkok archdiocese do,” as the has not given any clear instruction on whether Kovitvanit of Bangkok has called also attended the ceremony. ference of Thailand, also wel- until he was appointed bishop a mainland priest can register for a priest card, they said. on all sectors of Thai society to Pope Benedict XVI on May 14 comed Archbishop Kriengsak of Nakhon Sawan in 2007. On accepting recognition by civil authorities, the 2007 letter from work together to build up the appointed Archbishop Krieng- and thanked Cardinal Michai. That year, he also became Pope Benedict XVI to Chinese Catholics said the Holy See “leaves country. sak, 60, as Bangkok archbishop He asked all Thai Catholics to president of the Episcopal Com- the decision to the individual bishop,” having consulted his priests, "All religions, government while accepting the resignation pray for their bishops, "both old mission for Pastoral Care of “to weigh up the concrete possibilities of choice and to evaluate officials and the private sector of Cardinal Michai, who turned and new," so that they persevere Christians as well as of the Catho- the possible consequences within the diocesan community.” must work together to build 80 on Jan. 24. in working for God and the lic Commission for the Liturgy. Local priests have been left without guidance since Bishop Julius peace," the archbishop told more During the Mass, Archbishop Church. Bangkok archdiocese, one of Jia Zhiguo of Zhengding, unaffiliated to the government-sanctioned than 2,000 people at his installa- Kriengsak praised Cardinal Mi- Archbishop Kriengsak had two archdioceses in the country, Church community, was taken away on March 30 by security of- tion ceremony on Aug. 16 at As- chai as "a leader who led the Thai chosen as his episcopal motto, was created in 1965. It covers the ficers from his Christ the King Cathedral. The cathedral is located sumption Cathedral in Bangkok. Church to the Kingdom of God." "Verbum Crucis Dei Est," central provinces of Bangkok, in Wuqiu village near the provincial capital Shijiazhuang. "We are ready to dialogue with He described the cardinal's 36 or "the language of the Cross Nonthaburi, Samut Prakan, Local Catholics believe government officials might be looking all faiths," Archbishop Kriengsak years as Bangkok archbishop is God's power," when he was Samut Sakhon, Pathum Thani, for a new candidate to replace the 74-year-old bishop who refuses said, speaking on behalf of Thai and leader of the Church in ordained bishop for Nakhon Suphan Buri, Nakhon Pathom, to compromise with them. Catholics. Thailand as a "springtime" for Sawan diocese in 2007. Then he Ang Thong, Ayutthaya and parts One source said that Bishop Jia was allowed to meet his neph- Cardinal Michai Kit- the local Church. had said that the motto, taken of Chachoengsao and Nakhon ews at a guesthouse in Shijiazhuang on Aug. 10. The bunchu, his predecessor, and Cardinal Michai, in welcom- from 1 Corinthians 1:18, reminds Nayok. appeared well. Archbishop Salvatore Pennac- ing Archbishop Kriengsak, af- him "to respond to God's love." Cardinal Michai earlier told As the celebration of Oct. 1 celebration of the 60th anniversary chio, apostolic to Thai- firmed that the Catholic Church Archbishop Kriengsak was UCA News that the Bangkok of the founding of the People’s Republic of nears, the land, were present for the installa- is always conscious of its respon- born in Bangkok on June 27, 1949, archbishop is regarded as the Chinese government has stepped up security measures in many tion. Buddhist monks, Protestant sibility to "serve the people and and ordained a priest on July 11, head of the Church in Thailand. aspects, China watchers say. (UCAN) pastors, Hindu priests, Muslim build peace in the country." 1976. In 2003, he served as parish (UCAN) CBCP Monitor Vol. 13 No. 17 A3 August 17 - 30, 2009 News Features Pope to close Year for Priests in Rome with huge meeting VATICAN CITY, August 14, 2009—The Congregation for the Clergy, ing a huge meeting of priests from around the world between June headed by Cardinal Claudio Hummes, announced this week that 9-11 in Rome. the Pope Benedict XVI plans to close the Year for Priests by convok- Every Catholic priest in the world—there are around 407,000—is invited to the meeting, which will have the theme of “Faithfulness Approval of Magna Carta of of Christ, Faithfulness of the Priest." The program, announced by the Congregation for the Clergy Women an opening salvo for today, indicates that the first day of the gathering will take place at the Basilica of Paul-Outside-the-Walls and will have as theme "Conversion and Mission." The activities will include prayer, a con- RH, Abortion bill enactment ference to discuss the subject, Eucharist adoration, and opportunity for Confession and a Mass. MANILA, August 15, 2009— Prolifers nationwide are alarmed On day two, June 10, the theme will be "Cenacle, invocation to the with the recent approval of the Magna Carta of Women even if Holy Spirit with Mary, in fraternal communion." The venue for the it promotes women’s rights against discrimination because it morning reflections will be the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, while could pave the way for the passage of the Reproductive Health in the evening a “priestly vigil” will be held at 's Basilica. Bill and a potential crafting of an abortion law. The vigil will consist of priests offering their testimonies, singing This is why Marita Wasan of Pro-Life Philippines has asked and adoration of the Eucharist. Pope Benedict XVI will be present the Catholic Bishops and the parents to be vigilant on the ill ef- at the vigil and will greet the priests. fects of Republic Act 9710 to the younger generation, especially The Year for Priests will be brought to a close on Friday, June 11, on the law’s provisions that promote pro-choice mentality like which is the Solemnity of the of Jesus. Pope Benedict what the disputed Reproductive Health Bill advocates. XVI will preside over a Mass in Saint Peter's Basilica to conclude the “Although there are good provisions in the law, there remain Year for Priests. The final day of the meeting will have "With Peter, some provisions that promote anti-life and pro-choice mentality. in ecclesial communion" as its theme. (CNA) This is why pro-lifers have more work to do and we really rely on the help of the bishops to warn the Catholic faithful to be vigilant on how this law would be implemented,” she said. Wasan particularly referred to the retention of the provision that classified contraceptives, which are scientifically abortifa- Traditional family vital for modern cient in nature, as “ethical drugs,” or those medicines or appa- ratus that can be bought only with a prescription. “Even if the law requires prescription for the purchase of contraceptive drugs, this has not been observed in reality. In fact, society, Vatican official says there has been no penalties set for violators that is why people keep buying these abortifacient medicines,” she said, referring VATICAN CITY, August 10, 2009—A Vati- needed more than ever today – for family to the commonly used birth control pills and intrauterine devices can official sharply criticized a sentence by members and for society as a whole. among others. Italy's highest court that said there was no "I view with concern this progressive slide She added that with Malacañang’s enactment of RA 9710, the substantial legal difference between a family toward a further privatization of the family, fight for a “pro-life Philippines” gets tougher as passage of the founded on marriage and a family resulting as if the family were irrelevant for society," Reproductive Health Bill and a possible abortion law is not far from a cohabiting couple. Cardinal Antonelli said. from happening. The sentence by the Court of Cassation cit- "Recent sociological research in various “Let us stand by our faith and morals. We should interpret ed an "evolution" in thinking about the forms countries has highlighted a series of benefits the words ‘ethical’ and ‘population management’ based on our that a family takes in modern society. that the so-called traditional family brings to moral values and not let the technicalities of the law dictate our The ruling, which concerned a case of society, and the numerous damages which conscience,” Wasan added. theft between an ex-cohabiting couple, was the supposed new forms of family—like Aside from Pro-Life Philippines, the Catholic Bishops Con- described as "a serious attack on the fam- the single-parent family and cohabitation— ference of the Philippines has earlier asked Congress to purge ily" by Giuseppe Dalla Torre, a Catholic bring to society," he said. the bill of all anti-life and anti-family provisions so as to truly legal expert interviewed by Vatican Radio The cardinal added that because marriage advance the dignity and wellbeing of women. Aug. 8. is a public commitment, not only before the Archbishop , who chairs the Episco-

Cardinal , president of church but also before society, it promotes a © www.unmondoditaliani. pal Commission on Family and Life (ECFL), and Lucena Bishop the Pontifical Council for the Family, told more serious sense of responsibility among Emilio Marquez, who chairs the CBCP Commission on Women, Vatican Radio that the traditional family was those involved. (CNS) Cardinal Ennio Antonelli issued last February a statement titled “The Dignity of Women is Divinely Ordained,” wherein they strongly criticized the con- gressmen’s tendency to anchor the bill on the “unconstitutional” provisions of the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). Ongoing renewal should permeate Even CBCP President and Jaro, Archbishop Angel Lag- dameo, together with Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales and Cebu Archbishop Ricardo Cardinal Vidal, joined Asian Church: FABC secretary-general calls questioning the inconsistency of the legislation to moral law and the Constitution. (Kris Bayos) MANILA, August 14, 2009—Saying that the He also stressed the importance of an in-depth Communities,” he said, adding, process of renewal is a continuous movement renewal on the part of clergy and religious as ser- “they are to be built as believing that should permeate the life of the Church, es- vant leaders and authentic witnesses. and praying communities of the Lord.” In a statement during the FABC first plenary pecially that of Asia, Federation of Asian Bishops “They [clergy and religious] are the main collab- assembly in 1974, the bishops stressed that “to Conferences’ secretary-general and Cotabato orators of Bishops and, given the cultural context Church in mission preach the Gospel in Asia today we must make Archbishop proposed some of Asia, no significant renewal of the Church can The essential aspects of a church in mission the message and life of Christ truly incarnate in fundamental ways for the ongoing renewal of the take place without their leadership and witness- have repeatedly been discussed in past FABC the minds and lives of our people. The primary Asian Church. ing,” he said. assemblies. focus of our task of evangelization then, at this “Renewal is a continuum of movements that time of our history, is the building of a truly local have different beginnings but has no end…There Church.” are periods of dormancy and periods of awaken- The statement further stressed that “the local ing, periods of decline, as well as periods of intense church is a church incarnate in a people, a church sustained renewal,” said Quevedo. indigenous and inculturated. And this means con- The FABC secretary-general spoke before del- cretely a church in continuous, humble and loving egates and guests at the start of the Asian Bishops’ dialogue with the living traditions, the cultures, 9th plenary assembly at Pius XII Center in Manila, the religions—in brief, with all the life-realities August 11. of the people in whose midst it has sunk its roots deeply and whose history and life it gladly makes Vital ideas for renewal its own...” In a report he presented to the assembly, FABC secretary-general and Cotabato Archbishop Orlando Quevedo speaks before delegates to the plenary assembly. Quevedo said the vision of a local Church as Quevedo portrayed an Asian church in an ongo- Quevedo also emphasized the need for forma- Quevedo said that as a Church-in-mission, the imagined in the statement have become an in- ing process of renewal and proposed some vital tion and participation among the as essential Asian Church is “a communion of communities spiration for the Asian bishops in their work for ideas for the continuous revitalization of the Asian for Church renewal. and the humble herald and servant of the Gospel, renewal. Church. “Only with a committed and participatory laity accompanying the peoples of Asia towards full life “The building of a local church is truly an enor- “Use the FABC vision of a renewed Church-in- can church renewal be enduring and lasting,” he in the Reign of God.” mous and daunting task of renewal, a thorough- mission and its primary pastoral focus of building said. The prelate noted that materialism and relativ- going renewal that encompasses the renewal of the Local Church as an inspiration and guide for The archbishop underlined the importance of ism have led people away from living faithfully mission, of faith and prayer life, of community, renewal,” the prelate said. building the basic ecclesial communities centered their Christian faith. clergy, laity and religious, of church structures He noted that the vision of a renewed church-in- on the word of God and the Eucharist and commit- “In this age of materialist secularism and rela- and ministries, of leadership styles, etc.,” Quevedo mission in Asia discussed during the first plenary ted to dialogue with cultures, religious traditions tivism many people are losing sight of the funda- said. assembly in Taipei 35 years ago still rings true and with the poor. mental relationship between universal truths and The prelate believed that the work for renewal even today. “The new way of being Church in Asia is best ex- their particular expressions or have somehow has been directed by the principles of co-respon- “It was a vision of renewed Church in a mission pressed at the grassroots level through the building drifted away from communion and solidarity,” sibility, participation, committed engagement in of integral evangelization,” said Quevedo. of Basic Ecclesial Communities or Small Christian the archbishop said. mission with its constitutive dimension of social transformation, contextualization, authenticity and credibility. The guiding principles, he said, have been con- Society needs ‘God-experienced’ persons: Indian archbishop sistently cited in past FABC assemblies as well MANILA, August 15, 2009—Speak- ticity, sincerity, deeds matching terms of possessions and success in ety extremely needs spiritually- as named by scholars who have written various ing before delegates of the 9th words, capacity to endure for com- mutual manipulation, where increas- profound persons, who have in- dissertations on pastoral themes developed by plenary assembly of Federation of mon causes, gentle joy and religious ing number of people are only claim- timately lived the ‘word’ and the FABC. Asian Bishops Conferences Arch- seriousness,” he said. ing their rights and are indifferent to Eucharist, he said. (CBCPNews) bishop Thomas Menamparampil, The archbishop took note of the their responsibilities, we eagerly look Movements of Church renewal in Asia SDB of Guwahati, India said to- typical Asian characteristic of hold- for ‘deeper persons’, persons society The 7th plenary assembly nine years ago identi- day’s society need “God-experi- ing spiritual people in high esteem. can count on,” he said. fied movements of renewal happening in Asian enced” persons, whose lives are “Amazingly Asians seem to es- The prelate also noted the secu- Church: 1) A movement towards a Church of the deeply immersed in the Word and teem persons of depth. By ‘persons laristic tendencies that have affected Poor and a Church of the Young; 2) A movement the Eucharist. of depth’ we do not mean merely even deeply spiritual people. toward a “truly local Church;” 3) A movement “They hold out hope. The future persons of intellectual acumen, but He said radical commitment to so- toward deep interiority; 4) A movement toward of human history depends on those who are deep in their spiritual cial justice and development without an authentic community of faith, a communion them,” the archbishop said. perceptions, human relations, and concern to people’s spiritual needs of communities of authentic participation and The Indian prelate delivered his commitment to values and to the “contribute to building up a godless co-responsibility; 5) A movement toward active talk titled “A Presence that Chal- common good,” he said. space in human society.” integral evangelization and a new sense of mis- lenges and Strengthens” on August Menamparampil also noted the ef- “It is in such cases that the ex- sion; 6) A movement toward “empowerment” of 14, before more than a hundred fects of globalization that lead people ploited easily become exploiters, and the laity in the mission of the Church, requiring a assembly participants represent- to nurture superficial relationships the underdeveloped become reck- spirituality of discipleship; 7) A movement toward ing bishops conferences of Asia, and treat others as mere objects have less consumers, totally indifferent active involvement in generating and serving life Oceania, America, Canada and led people to look for real spiritual to the needs of the less privileged,” in the light of death-dealing forces in Asia; and 8) A Europe. leaders they can rely on. he said. movement toward the triple dialogue - with other Menamparampil said a person’s “In this globalized world where The failure to answer their spiritual faiths, with the poor and with cultures. deep spirituality is the fruit of the ‘utilitarian values’ seem to count needs have led even some individu- Quevedo said that it is within the framework of individual’s own experience of most, where people are caught into a als to join “sects”, the archbishop a movement toward a renewed Church-in-mission God. network of superficial relationships, added. or toward the building of the Local Church, that “[It] is characterized by authen- where achievement is measured in It is in that perspective that soci- Archbishop Thomas Menamparampil the meaning of the Plenary Assemblies in Daejeon Renewal / A6 CBCP Monitor A4 Vol. 13 No. 17 Opinion August 17 - 30, 2009

EDITORIAL

In search for the Asian face of Jesus THE work of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC) is basically pastoral. Or, at least, that is how its Secretary General, Cotabato Archbishop Orlando Quevedo, sees it. Being such, the primary pastoral focus articulated by the first FABC plenary assembly in Taipei in 1974 was building a renewed local church in a mission of integral evangelization in the midst of Asian realities, such as Asia being a mosaic of ancient cultures and the cradle of ancient religions (Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity and Islam). A tall pastoral order, indeed, especially on the ground when, according to Archbishop Thomas Menamparampil of Guwahati, India, one has to “rub shoulders with such fundamentalists of various categories (religious, cultural, market) , cultural nationalists, xenophobes, fascists of various colours, Senas of diverse persuasions, Bajrang Dals, Falung Gongs, Maoists and Marxists of unique self-description.” Pastoral workers and evangelizers, saysArchbishop Menamparampil, “will have to deal with authoritarian governments, discriminating officers, callous members of the dominant community, biased press, and possibly an insensitive neighborhood.” Which is why, the Archbishop notes—and this maybe where the rub is—“Making dogmas out of alien ideologies that do not correspond to the cultural realities of Asia would be a mistake, especially in this era in which culturally conditioned meta- narratives are being questioned.” Considering these realities may take more plenary assemblies, more theologizing and sociological analyses. But the man of the streets of Vietnam or Pakistan or even here in the Philippines, perhaps, just wants to see what the late Pope John Paul II has been appealing all along in Ecclesia in Asia: the Asian face of Jesus. Today in the streets of Hong Kong or anywhere else in Asia, it Illustration by Bladimer Usi would be hard to distinguish, if at all possible, who bears the Asian face of Jesus and those who don’t. But with even worse socio-political realities during the time of Oscar V. Cruz, DD St. Justin (c. 120) who wrote an apology on the Eucharist with the pagan Roman Empire ganging up at bay, the face of Jesus Congregation for the was harder to manifest. But then the early Church had the likes of Sts. Perpetua and Views and Points causes of Felicity and Justin himself who ended up a martyr for showing the Face of Jesus to the world. But then, too, at the end of every Eucharistic celebration, church-goers, the brothers and sisters, REAL or but wishful, decided or merely thinking aloud, insistent General of the Faith that examines and evaluates all objections to would go and attend to the needs of the widows, the orphans and or but in the course of an impressive occasion, it might be both the Cause and ascertains the observance of the needed procedural those in need. good and useful to hereunder forward some basic elements about norms. Third, the office of the historico-hagiographical that inves- the process observed by the Holy See in the matter of the Beatifica- tigates the Cause in the event of lack of sufficient qualification and Really, too much unlike today. tion and of Saints—something that has been locally number of witnesses for the Cause when such is presented long after mentioned lately. the death of the Candidate. Let it be first said though that there are two categories of deceased (c) The local Church authority competent that initiates a Cause is holy men and women in the Church: One, all those in heaven who the Bishop of the place in whose territorial jurisdiction the Candidate Transforming Politics are already considered “saints” (with a small letter “s”). Two, all had his or her residence, and who passed away some years before. those in heaven who are officially named as “Saints” (with a big “S”) Convinced of the basic merits of a Cause, he gathers favorable writ- HOW do we go about changing the way politics is done in the by the Holy See and whose representations are seen in Churches ten testimonials from individuals who know the life, virtues and Philippines so that, instead of being a stumbling block, it positively for public veneration. The “saints” are those honored during “All miraculous interventions of the Candidate, and thereafter transmits contributes to integral development, including the spiritual growth, Saints’ Day” while the “Saints” have their respective fixed days of the entire documentation to the Congregation. of our people? How to renew politics so that it becomes a channel commemoration in the Church yearly calendar. (d) The Congregation instructs the said Bishop what are further for our people’s well being and growth in the life of grace? How The following brief and candid information would be enough required specially in terms of a substantive merits that the Cause to ensure that the truths about faith and politics do not remain to know the procedural order observed in order to establish the requires and the procedural steps to follow precisely in order to unattainable ideals but become reality? substantive merit of a case or Cause for and Canoniza- duly establish the substantive merits thereof in terms of the heroic The most basic work that has to be done is catechesis on politics tion of Saints—on the occasion of a given insistent, persistent and life and extraordinary virtues of the Candidate for Beatification or Christian education in politics. At present there is a tragic consistent petition from those concerned: and at least two more miraculous interventions for his or her dichotomy between our faith-life as a people and our political (a) The official body at the Holy See or the Vatican that formally Canonization. culture. This dichotomy prevents our faith from having a say deals with this specific agenda is called the “Congregation for the (e) The same Bishop, after all the needed substantive and pro- in our political activities. As a result our political culture is Causes of Saints” and whose concrete address is Piazza Pio XII, 10, cedural requirements have been accomplished, would find it both characterized by deception, dishonesty, fraud, violence, corruption, 00103 Rome, Italy or Vatican City State, Europe. proper and practical to seek the endorsement of the Cause from pay-offs, and patronage. Yet most of the participants in the (b) The Congregation has three Offices: First, the judicial Office that Bishops’ Conference of the place whereas both beatification and political process call themselves Christians. Worse, politicians stipulates and implements the procedures of all Causes of Beatifica- canonization has at least a national if not international impact for take advantage of their Christianity to promote their interests, as tion and Canonization of Saints. Second, the Office of the Promoter the Church. when they are photographed in churches before election time or act as sponsors in baptisms and weddings in order to widen their Sr. Mary Pilar Verzosa, RGS circle of supporters. But catechesis on politics cannot have any lasting effect if done Centers for women and only on the occasion of elections. It should be done as part and parcel of regular catechesis in the family, in schools, in Basic children organized Love Life Ecclesial Communities, covenant communities of lay people, religious organizations—”in season, out of season,” or as the PPCRV slogan has it, “pang habang panahon”. Through catechesis BARELY a month after the Training Work- marital sex, unplanned pregnancy and good Shepherd Convent in City. on politics, people should be led to see the vital link between their shop conducted by the CBCP Office on abortion, fertility problems and natural While the dioceses of Cayagan de Oro and life of faith and their political activity. They should be taught Women for prospective staff and volunteers family planning. Among the guests were Digos had their training earlier held at the how to evaluate their options in politics to see whether or not they of the Centers for Women and Children, the the heads of the Women’s Desks of the diocesan pastoral building in Cagayan de are in accord with the Gospel and the teachings of the Church. participants from the Diocese of San Fer- PNP and DSWD. Bishop “Ambo” Oro. The last batch that underwent training Catechesis should enable them to express their faith and be guided nando, Pampanga held the blessing of their gave a very inspiring message, relating was from the dioceses of Paranaque, Imus by their faith in their politics. center at Holy Parish, Angeles City. his dream to have such a counseling center and Kalookan. Bishop Pablo David, who had chosen one day due to the many girls and women Those who had launched their Centers We have seen how many voters are influenced in choosing them to attend the workshop, readily gave who go to confession, accusing themselves were Baguio, Malolos and Novaliches. We certain candidates not out of conscience but because of family them a room in the parish compound, fully of sinning when in fact, they are victims look forward to the launching and blessing relationships. We also know that the popularity of a candidate (often equipped, including a telephone line for of rape or wife beating. He said priests of the Centers in Cagayan de Oro and Digos in another field of work such as sports, TV and movies) or the hotline counseling. The Catholic Women’s in the confessional are helpless due to the this August, while the rest promised to hold prospects of political and economic rewards, money and —and League officers and members are giving secrecy, but the counselors would be able their launching in October. a wrong sense of utang na loob—are strong factors in people’s them their full support, as well as the Sorop- to assist them more effectively The CBCP Office on Women hope to see voting behavior. Competence, honesty, personal integrity and an acceptable program of government are not primary considerations. timists and Parish Pastoral Council. The Diocese of San Fernando is among that they are on the way to being fully func- This is why in their campaigns politicians cater to what the voters The Launching of the Center was a way the ten dioceses that the Office on Women tioning, as well as self-supporting within want in terms of entertainment and gifts of cash or kind. of introducing to the parishioners the ser- has invited to set up a Counseling Center. three years. vices and referral agencies that would net- All ten dioceses have undergone the train- Organizing the training workshops are: Political education includes increased awareness of guidelines to work with the counselors in attending to ing for the volunteer counselors besides Executive Secretary of the Office on Women, help people make the right choices, based on a properly formed the problems of women and children such this one in Angeles City. They are the Dr. Zenaida Rotea, Sis Nellie Santos and Sr. conscience, in the election of candidates. This is the reason why, as domestic violence, raped and incest, Dioceses of Baguio, Malolos, Novaliches, Pilar Verzosa, RGS Project Director of the the Philippine Bishops have been providing such guidelines almost sexual harassment, premarital and extra- and Naga. Their training was held at the Center for Women and Children. as a matter course every time national elections come. --Pastoral Exhortation on Philippine Politics, CBCP, 1997 Fr. Francis B. Ongkingco Fatal Attractions www.cbcpmonitor.com Whatever [email protected]

“SO how do you assess your situation?” the elderly priest asked “But… I thought…,” her face revealed a rather new expression the teenager. of interest, of hope. “What do you mean, Father,” she said, quite puzzled at the un- “Yes, it means that it’s pretty unfair and unfortunate to let our expected question of the priest. natural attractions be some sort of definitive identification stamp “I mean,” the priest cleared his throat and started explaining, for many of our richest human experiences. It’s like entering a hall Pedro C. Quitorio “after everything you’ve said about yourself and your struggles, of mirrors in a carnival where one sees his image transformed in Editor-in-Chief shouldn’t you make personal assessment regarding how you are various ways and comes out with the distorted image remaining as God’s daughter, as a daughter of your parents and as a friend of in him.” Pinky Barrientos, FSP Kris P. Bayos your classmates.” “Do you mean attraction isn’t bad, Father?” Associate Editor Feature Editor “Well, I guess…,” she rolled her eyes finding it hard to find the “Of course not! Everyone, especially during his or her adolescence right words. “Well…, ah…, I guess all these tell me that I’m gay,” may feel certain indeterminate affections that make one feel attracted Melo M. Acuña Laarni Bergado she shrugged her shoulders and sighed with relief for letting out to the same sex.” Managing Editor Marketing Supervisor something weighing her down. “Indeterminate?” she asked. Roy Q. Lagarde Ernani M. Ramos “Why do you say so?” the priest gave her an understanding “That means an unsure or unclear emotional experience. It’s only News Editor Circulation Manager look. natural for us to be attracted. Man’s attraction is always inclined “…I suppose it’s because I’m attracted to girls?” she responded. towards what is good. The problem stems in confusing or defining Laurence John R. Morales Marcelita Dominguez “Are you affirming that or are you asking me to answer that for such attractions towards persons in a sexual way. This happens Layout Artist and Online Editor Comptroller you?” when one’s attraction becomes an obsession which may then lead “I’m sorry, Father,” she giggled. The priest was happy to see to sexual desires.” The CBCP Monitor is published fortnightly by the CBCP Com- that she was more relaxed and trusting now. “No, I mean, I’m gay “I think I’m beginning to understand…,” she said listening more munications Development Foundation, Inc., with editorial and because I’m attracted to the same sex.” intently. business offices at 470 Gen. Luna St., Intramuros, Manila. P.O. Box 3601, 1076 MCPO. “And how is something so humanly natural as being attracted “This experience, which shouldn’t really be problematic, can be- Editorial: (063) 404-2182. Business: (063)404-1612. supposed to be defining of one’s sexual orientation or shall we say, come one when it results with fear in the person. In this confusion, ISSN 1908-2940 confusion since the ‘gay option’ isn’t a choice that resolves one’s he may conclude that it is something abnormal or even sinful. He psychological-emotional turmoil?” Whatever / A6 CBCP Monitor Vol. 13 No. 17 A5 August 17 - 30, 2009 Opinion

Jose B. Lugay Commentary Laiko Lampstand Focus on food UN Disabilities Treaty

AFTER the media focus on Tita Cory’s fu- the conclusion of the meal, an unidentified hungry, make exposes of government’s lack does not create neral, people were reminded that once upon woman opened a handbag stuffed with cash, of good governance in the area of food pro- a time, our democracy was championed by a counted out bills and paid the $15,000 tab duction and food prices as well. It is right abortion rights President who religiously followed the legal which included a generous tip” (Congress- for us to expose GMA’s insensitivity—to and moral precepts of good governance. man Danilo Suarez of Q.C. claimed he was spend for food in an outlandish way while By Austin Ruse and Piero Tozzi Nobody doubted that President Cory would the one who paid for it.) there are increasing number of eat- do nothing but the best for the good of our Filipinos in the U.S. decried GMA’s lack ing only two meals a day. But GMA alone LATE week, signed the Convention on the Rights country. of sensitivity to what was happening back cannot solve this. All local government of- of Persons with Disabilities—the first binding United Nations In contrast, with President Gloria Maca- home. While everybody was mourning ficials must share the burden of improving treaty to mention “sexual and reproductive health.” The term has pagal Arroyo, no matter how much she tried the passing away of a beloved past presi- the productivity of food production in their provoked concern among pro-lifers, who worry that it creates an to explain her achievements to the people dent, the current president splurged again localities. implicit right to abortion. Let us emphatically state: It does not. expressed in her SONA, the Opposition, fu- to enjoy first class dinner with her select Consider the fact that we import 1.2 million There is some confusion about UN documents related to eled by media, always had something to say entourage—$20,000 bacchanalian feast in metric tons yearly from other Asian countries abortion—and the proponents of abortion like it that way. Their against what she would do or about to do— New York’s Le Cirque. “Americans were (Vietnam, Thailand, Pakistan) to assure that strategy is to claim that terms like “reproductive health” mean be it the appointment of a new justice of the scandalized at the propriety of a leader of our 90 million Filipinos will have sufficient abortion, and, by dint of repetition, get people to believe that it Supreme Court or the naming of the National an impoverished country and her 30 or rice during the lean season. Although the does. Pro-abortion groups claim “reproductive health” means Artists awardees. Nothing that she does es- so hangers-on eating in an outrageously amount is only 10% of our yearly require- abortion, and, most famously, so does US Secretary of State Hil- capes scrutiny—like when she returned to the expensive restaurant. The dinner was held ment, due to lack of post-harvest facilities like lary Clinton, but that is not how the term is used in any negoti- country from a trip from South America, her a few hours after Cory died. Press Sec. dryers and rice mill, we also waste equivalent ated UN document. voluntary self-quarantine at St. Luke’s Hospi- Remonde claimed that it was paid by Rep. to 408,764 metric tons of milled rice worth Take the Disabilities Convention. The term was debated ex- tal for a few days, became the butt of all jokes. Martin Romualdez. The legislator’s lawyer P30 B per year as reported by the Bureau of tensively, and it was clear throughout negotiations that “sexual Media was unforgiving in exposing her real told media it wasn’t Martin but a New York Post Harvest Research and Extension Office and reproductive health” did not include abortion. This was motive not to be quarantined as a precaution based who paid for the bill.” of the Department of Agriculture. recognized repeatedly by the Chairman, who said that no new to contain the spread of the AH1N1 virus but The two dinner incidents focused on Corn farmers blame government for drop rights—and specifically no right to abortion—were created. to undergo cosmetic surgery instead. how our politicians indulged themselves in prices says the Philippine Maize Federa- Indeed, the official report of the proceedings stated that “this When she was in the United States to by spending money for their leisure with- tion. This should be given more media mile- phrase was not intended to alter or prejudice the general policies meet President Obama, the media headlines out being sensitive to the deprivation of age than GMA’s feast. While International of governments,” thus acknowledging that countries are free to captured by the outpouring of the peoples’ the hungry people in the Philippines. This market price of corn is $300 per metric ton keep their laws protecting the unborn in place. love for Cory shown by the sudden surge of reminds us of the story of the Queen of our local corn sells at $150 per metric ton. At least 15 nations made statements that the phrase did not humanity to mourn her death—at De La Salle France, Marie Antoinette, when told that The National Food Authority promised create a right to abortion. The US in its closing statement affirmed College Auditorium, through the procession there was no more bread for the people, to buy 300,000 metric tons at P13 per kilo that the term “cannot be interpreted to constitute support, en- towards Manila Cathedral, the wake that she exclaimed “Why don’t they give them (equivalent to $270/m.t.) but reneged on dorsement, or promotion of abortion.” followed where political enemies reconciled cake?” Unfortunately that remark made this promise. Reason. They run out of funds! Yet this history is sometimes lost. Pro-lifers do the unborn a with the family, and President Cory’s last the revolutionaries’ lose their respect for The poor farmers’ cost of production of disfavor when they start repeating the talking points of the other 7-hour journey to the Manila Memorial Cem- the ruling aristocracy and mercilessly sent corn. is P:10 per kg or P10,000 per metric ton side. Articles have appeared in the pro-life press recently saying etery in Paranaque. Prior to this happening, them to the guillotine! Let us hope that the (equivalent to $208/metric ton). NFA blames that the Disabilities Convention “establishes an international GMA and 65 members of her delegation went Filipinos are more level-headed than to the implementation of EO 675 which lifts the right to abortion”. It does no such thing, and nothing pleases to celebrate and enjoy dinner celebrating the resort to this drastic move. tariff for imported feed wheat (for poultry groups like the Center for Reproductive Rights and International successful meeting with the U.S. President. It is said that one cannot reason out to raising) to zero. Planned Parenthood Federation more than to have our side Washington Post reports: a person with a hungry stomach. Our To the presidentiables—instead of char- repeat their revisionist narrative. “Arroyo and an entourage of about 65 grandmothers used to say, “Huwag kang acter assassination, why don’t you spend a For rewriting the history of UN conferences is part of the people including security and food tasters magbiro sa taong gutom!” As experienced little more time in reviewing the problems of strategy pro-abortion groups adopt. Take, for example, the In- had dinner at Bobby Van’s steakhouse on by catechists, one cannot evangelize persons governance of this government—that means ternational Conference on Population and Development, held in 15th street NW hours after she met with who are on a hand-to-mouth existence. So, those responsible for improving the yields Cairo in 1994. This conference was a victory for pro-lifers, who U.S. President Obama. The group took over this is a call to media and to all local gov- of agricultural and fish products. Focus on beat back a concerted attempt by the Clinton Administration one of the restaurant’s private rooms and ernment officials—if you have to do some food production problems not just on the and their European allies to establish a right to abortion. Yet dined on lobsters, steak and fine wines. At sensational exposes—focus on food for the President’s meals! following defeat, the other side has tried to rewrite the story as a victory for abortion rights. This is false for a number of reasons, and pro-lifers should Fr. Melvin P. Castro arm themselves with facts to rebut their claims. The document produced at Cairo is not a treaty and is not binding. The Cairo document states explicitly that it created no new rights, so no Assumpta est Maria “right to abortion” can be found there. Terms like “reproductive Speaking of Mary rights” and “reproductive health” are indeed mentioned, but their definitions do not include abortion. In two places the docu- ment states that in “no case should abortion be used as a method THE month of August marks the Solemnity of the Assumption of of error, are powerful arguments leading to the Church those who of family planning,” and, most importantly, it acknowledges the Blessed Mary (August 15) and the Feast of the Queenship seek the truth earnestly. explicitly the sovereign right of states to legislate on the subject: of Mary (August 22). The latter intentionally celebrated seven days Oops. Probably I sounded very technical here. And yet, we do “Any measures or changes related to abortion within the health after the Assumption to mark an octave of celebration. need to realize that the not so-called educated are wise. We can system can only be determined at the national and local level We have heard it often now, it used to be seldom in the past, that only turn to the Gospel and hear the Lord telling his listeners that according to the national legislative process.” many who are supposed to be better educated than us (for they many truths have been hidden from learned and have been revealed Does this mean that pro-lifers should be unconcerned about hold so many degrees in theology, philosophy, or what have you) to mere children. the United States signing the Disabilities Treaty, and the planned questioning so many traditional teachings of the Church, or at the And among the dogmas always incurring the criticism of non- efforts to make it binding on us by ratifying it? very least, “re-reading,” re-defining the Church’s teachings. And Catholics are the Marian dogmas. Among these, of course, is the No, pro-lifers should be concerned with Disabilities as with even to the extent of questioning the historicity of the Resurrection dogma of the Assumption. But lest we forget, the Church defines any treaty, because even though the Disabilities Convention of Christ. dogmas not in relation to their acceptability to other religions nor to does not create a right to abortion, it does create a committee to I find this entry in the New Advent Catholic Encyclopedia very the general public but the Church proclaims them as such because monitor compliance with its terms. UN compliance committees educating: they are objective truths. are often staffed with radicals who favor abortion, and, in their Catholics do not admit that, as is sometimes alleged, dogmas Hence, the Church proclaims certain truths as dogmas of Faith non-binding advisory recommendations, will hector countries are the arbitrary creations of ecclesiastical authority, that they are not because of whim and caprice of some or of many but that bas- about changing their laws protecting life. They will claim that multiplied at will, that they are devices for keeping the ignorant in ing herself on the Revealed Truth which is Sacred Scripture and on where the Disabilities treaty refers to “sexual and reproductive subjection, that they are obstacles to conversions. Some of these are Sacred Tradition, she is able to define dogmas definitively. health,” it is referring to abortion, though this was emphatically points of controversy which cannot be settled without reference to Regarding the day, year, and manner of Our Lady’s death, nothing not what countries intended to do when they negotiated, signed more fundamental questions. Dogmatic definitions would be arbi- certain is known. The earliest known literary reference to the As- and ratified the treaty. trary if there were no Divinely instituted infallible teaching office sumption is found in the Greek work De Obitu S. Dominae. Catholic Members of compliance committees should not be reinterpret- in the Church; but if, as Catholics maintain, God has established faith, however, has always derived our knowledge of the mystery ing the meaning of words to claim “reproductive health” means in His Church an infallible office, dogmatic definitions cannot be from Apostolic Tradition. Epiphanius (d. 403) acknowledged that he abortion when that was not the intention. This holds equally true considered arbitrary. The same Divine Providence which preserves knew nothing definite about it. The dates assigned for it vary between for pro-lifers, who should be the last people to want to aid and abet the Church from error will preserve her from inordinate multiplica- three and fifteen years after Christ’s Ascension. Two cities claim the strategy of the other side by repeating their false claims. tion of dogmas. She cannot define arbitrarily. We need only observe to be the place of her departure: Jerusalem and Ephesus. Common the life of the Church or of the Roman pontiffs to see that dogmas consent favors Jerusalem, where her tomb is shown; but some argue (Austin Ruse is president and Piero Tozzi is Executive Vice- are not multiplied inordinately. And as dogmatic definitions are in favor of Ephesus. The first six centuries did not know of the tomb President/General Counsel of C-FAM (Catholic Family and but the authentic interpretation and declaration of the meaning of of Mary at Jerusalem (The Catholic Encyclopedia). Human Rights Institute), a research institute dedicated to in- Divine revelation, they cannot be considered devices for keeping the By promulgating the Bull Munificentissimus Deus, 1 November, ternational social policy at the UN and the EU. This article is ignorant in subjection, or reasonable obstacles to conversions, on 1950, Pope Pius XII declared infallibly that the Assumption of the published under special arrangement with MercatorNet) the contrary, the authoritative definition of truth and condemnation Blessed Virgin Mary as a dogma of the Catholic Faith.

Fr. Russell Bantiles more if I were confined in the ence whenever we dispense God’s grace comfort of my room! in the Sacrament of Confession? ‘Father, can I have a Besides, it is the penitent’s right to be * * * confessed privately. If he wants anonym- confession?’ ity, he should not be denied of it. How Cogito One last consideration: the many people I know who are inhibited use of confessional. Aside from the fact to confess because they are ashamed of “FATHER, puwede ho ba akong mang- Then, as I was assigned in the semi- confessional. Where’s the priest? “In his that this is the prescription of the Church their parish priest! umpisal sa inyo pagpunta n’yo rito sa nary, I was given permission to exercise room,” the sacristan may answer. “Just as the ordinary place to dispense grace— Confession outside the confessional is Tarragona?” The voice was so soft and such faculty to all the faithful in the call him if someone wants to confess”, the court room of Christ’s mercy, I think done only in extra-ordinary circumstanc- pleading. A mixture of timidity and archdiocese. I remember how I stayed he would add. “Why would I stay in the use of confessional is both prudent es. But I think, in a parish, not having determination to do what she longs to hours, together with other young priests, the confessional if no one wants to con- and catechetical. a confessional is not an extra-ordinary do for a great number of years could be hearing the confessions of retreatants fess?” would be a seemingly justifiable If psychologists and psychiatrists, circumstance where it is very possible perceived in it. “Oo ba. Sige, pagdating ko from colleges and universities, teachers cry of the parish priest. Besides, he has medical doctors and dentists attend to to construct one or two. d’yan, bago mag-umpisa ang misa,” was and students alike, of religious sisters, a lot of other parochial concerns: meet- their patients in designated places—have On this Year for Priests, we are told my response. etc. And with the long lines of penitents, ings, reports, invitations, emails, homily you seen a doctor operating a cancer how St. John Mary Vianney spent up I go to Tarragona twice a month this how I had wished it would soon be preparation, etc. patient outside, even if the operating to 18 hours hearing confession. But we summer (July and August) to celebrate finished. I think, the priest’s presence inside the room is just nearby?—and whenever we should not forget that before he reached Tagalog mass with the Filipino communi- Indeed, a priest needs supernatural confessional is a great encouragement for want to open up some intimate truths this mark, he also spent hours inside the ty there. Before the mass starts, I always sense to feel immense joy at the sight of penitents (especially those who are still to someone, we always go to a private confessional without hearing the words: make an announcement encouraging endless queues of penitents. I had prayed in doubts if they’d go or not, or those place, why can’t we do with more rever- “Father, can I have a confession?” those whose wanted to make a confes- hard for this grace because the immedi- who are timid to ask the priest who sion to approach me or the community ate human reaction is to say “Oh God, is still in his room) to finally decide to officers. But oftentimes, I get no reply. how long it would take me to finish this!” receive the sacrament. I have proven it Quote in the Act This time, the reply comes through And the physical and psychological fa- myself recently. the phone. And the lady is calling from tigue was unbearable. But now, what a “The Holy Eucharist commits us to the poor. To receive in truth the Tarragona to Valencia, in a parish where joy to find even three penitents! * * * Body and Blood of Christ given up for us, we must recognize Christ I stay this summer. Indeed, when I ar- in the poorest, his brothers and sisters.” rived in Tarragona two Sundays ago, I * * * This summer, in one parish I am help- had three penitents waiting in line. Praise ing, I usually come 30 minutes before Francis Cardinal Arinze, Prefect Emeritus of the Congregation for Divine the Lord! When I was a seminarian, I observed the mass. In other days, I would stay Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments; in his homily at the opening that in every parish a signboard reads: and prepare for the mass at the Adora- Mass of the 9th Plenary Assembly of the FABC in Manila, August 11, 2009. * * * Confession, every Friday, 5-6 PM, (or tion Chapel. But one day, it occurred to other day, depending on the parish) or me to do something different. I put on “Church renewal is a process of continuous beginnings, moving What a change of reaction! I remember upon appointment, which means, as the an alb and a violet stole. Then, I sat in two steps forward, one step backward, three steps forward and in my two years as newly-ordained priest penitents call on a priest for confession. the confessional. There were only five one step backward.” in Davao, how I have greatly desired to Yet I noticed—now as a priest—that a persons in the church. receive the faculty to hear confession few penitents follow this last one. Those As soon as I have taken my seat, one Archbishop Orlando Quevedo, FABC secretary-general; in his report during immediately after the ordination. But who really have the custom to confess old woman approached, kneeled down the 9th Plenary Assembly of the Federation of Asian Bishops Conferences. out of obedience, I had to adhere to the regularly would prefer to follow the and started her confession. She was bishop’s custom of delaying the grant of given schedule. followed by two others. At other times “In the context of war, no one wins.” such faculty to newly-ordained. After a Now, when they would present them- when I was at the chapel, it seldom Archbishop Angel Lagdameo, CBCP President; in a recent statement appeal- few months, I received the faculty to hear selves on the given parish schedule, happened that one would approach ing for peace in Mindanao. confessions only of little children. hardly they could find a priest in the and request for confession. How much CBCP Monitor A6 Vol. 13 No. 17 Local News August 17 - 30, 2009 Poverty, secularism seen as reasons for dearth of vocation in Asia IS there a Catholic clergy shortage “The number of vocations is go- in Asia? ing down. The Christian families The answer, said officials of have less children and the reason the Federation of Asian Bishops’ is secularization of the society,” Bishop hits Arroyo’s Conferences, often depends on said Cardinal . where you are. In Hong Kong, the church Some churches, especially, noted a “flourishing” number of lavish dinner in US those where Catholicism is a vocations but still, he added, the A CATHOLIC bishop has asked Malacañang to explain Presi- small minority, struggle to fill increase is far from the ideal. dent Arroyo’s lavish dinner and her entourage in a fancy French the pews. In 2008, Bishop Tong said there restaurant in New York during her recent US trip. For the Catholic Church in are only 10 seminarians in their Kalookan Bishop Deogracias Iñiguez said Arroyo must clear Pakistan, the second largest country but after the summer it things out on the latest allegation that is putting her administra- Muslim population in the world, improved to 15. tion more in bad taste. poverty foils young men to enter Bishop Tong said like India, The dinner bill of $20,000 (around P1 million) could feed the seminary. his country is having difficulty hundreds of poor and starving Filipinos across the country, Archbishop Lawrence Sal- recruiting seminarians because noted Iñiguez.

danha, president of Pakistan’s Media © Roy Lagarde / CBCP of the “secularization of materi- “It is outrageous if it would come out that they used the public Catholic Bishops’ Conference, From right, Cardinal Oswald Gracias of India, FABC secretary general Archbishop alistic tendencies.” funds. It’s insulting and it is a total and brazen disregard of what in fact said the number of girls Orlando Quevedo of the Philippines, Pakistani Archbishop Lawrence John Saldanha “Many people are moving we are experiencing right now during this crisis,” he said. and Hong Kong Bishop John Tin Hon during a press conference, August 15. joining the convents exceed the now from the countryside to the Iñiguez chairs the Permanent Committee on Public Affairs of boys entering seminaries. cities,” he said. the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP). “Because of the economic crisis and food problem it’s difficult to In the Philippines, the only Catholic-dominated country in Asia, And even if the Arroyo administration claims that the money make ends meet... so it’s difficult to have a vocation,” Archbishop the number of Catholics continues to increase but the number of was not of the government, still, the church official said, it re- Saldanha said. new priests does not keep pace. mains imprudent. Dwindling vocation in Pakistan, he said, is also because parents find it But Archbishop Orlando Quevedo, FABC’s secretary general, said “If it’s their money, it’s really up to them to on how to spend it. hard and “a big sacrifice to give up their sons” to enter the priesthood. dwindling vocations is not that a major issue. But then again, it’s totally needless to spend such a huge amount Same situation mirrors the problem confronting the Catholic To date, the Philippines has 8,000 priests with a ratio of 1 [priest] for just a dinner,” he said. Church in India fuelled by growing secularization there. to 12,000 parishioners. (CBCPNews) The bishop said it is only right that a proper investigation would be made on the matter in order to find out if there were Eucharist / A1 any laws that were violated. forming event, by adequate preparation, and plative, experiential and prayerful celebrations Cebu are among the Filipino prelates who A New York Post online news article said Mrs. Arroyo’s wine effective celebration, and in particular by of the Eucharist have the potential to render the participated in the meeting. and dine at the Le Cirque totalled $20,000, which is equivalent relevant and nourishing homilies,” it read. Christian communities of Asia powerful wit- The other cardinals were Telesphore to almost one million in Philippine peso (P955, 400). Around 120 leaders of the Federation of nesses of Jesus, witnesses who are bearers of his Toppo and Oswald Gracias, both from India, The New York Post article, posted August 7, said: “Philippines Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC) met at presence, his love, and his healing power.” and John Baptist Cardinal Phan Min Manh President Maria Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo was at Le Cirque the the Pope Pius XII Catholic Center in Manila And, concretely, the mission is to live the from Vietnam. other night with a since Tuesday and reflected on the theme Eucharist by “becoming communities of lov- large entourage en- “Living the Eucharist in Asia.” ing concern, hospitality, selfless service to the ‘God bless FABC’ joying the good life... The religious leaders said there should poor, the excluded, and downtrodden.” The FABC’s plenary assembly concluded Macapagal-Arroyo always be “devout listening” to the Word with a Mass at Pius XII auditorium presided ordered several bot- at home as a family, especially on Sundays Church figures by Cardinal Arinze. tles of very expen- to prepare for the Eucharist. The weeklong meeting brought to Manila In his homily, the cardinal lauded the sive wine, pushing Such a practice, they said, will certainly prominent figures of the Roman Catholic Asian bishops for doing their best to hold the dinner tab up to “bear fruits of renewal” of Christian life and Church not just in Asia but also from the “steadfastly to the apostles’ teaching and $20,000.” will bring about a “culture of listening” to the Vatican. fellowship, to the breaking of the bread and The incident al- Word in the parishes and communities. Pope Benedict XVI was represented by to the prayers.” legedly took place “To celebrate Eucharist is to live in faith, Francisco Cardinal Arinze, Prefect Emeritus He also asked God to bless the FABC, “to cor- during Arroyo’s a faith planted, nurtured and nourished of the Congregation for Divine Worship and rect what needs to be modified, to fructify what trip to the US last by the Word. It demands that we become the Discipline of the Sacraments. was well done, and to bring us all home ready week that included contemplative and ponderers of the Word,” Cardinal Arinze was one of the principal to live and share what we have received.” a visit to US Presi- said the bishops. advisors to Pope John Paul II, and was con- The plenary assembly is the highest body dent Barack Obama sidered “papabile” before the 2004 papal of the FABC, which conclude usually with at the White House Call to mission conclave, which elected Benedict XVI. final statements reflecting their main consid- in Washington, D.C. According to the Church officials, Asian Hong Kong’s Cardinal Zen was erations on the selected theme. (CBCPNews) celebrations are marked by joy, simplicity also one of the seven cardinals who attended Its members are 15 Episcopal Conferences and transformation and “Asian heart is ener- the meeting. coming from Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, gized by contemplating beauty in nature.” Cardinal Zen, who just retired last April Japan, Kazakhstan, Korea, Laos-Cambodia, Abu Sayyaf / A1 Therefore, they said, Eucharistic celebra- as the head of Hong Kong’s Catholic Church Malaysia-Singapore-Brunei, Myanmar, “They don’t have ideology. They are plain terrorists and I think tions must touch the hearts of Asians who for reason of age, is an outspoken advocate of Pakistan, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, there should be no dialogue with them,” Jumoad said over Church- love colors, flowers, symbols, music and democracy and religious freedom in China. Thailand and Vietnam. run Radyo Veritas. contemplation. Catholics in China are split between a It also has ten associate members from “I am a bishop, but I’m saying things like this because I know when “Asian symbols, Asian melodies and even state-sanctioned church and an underground Hong Kong, Macau, Mongolia, Nepal, it comes to terrorists, there are no negotiations,” he said. more Asian values, should make our celebra- church that opposes government ties and Kyrgyzstan, Siberia (Russia), Tajikistan, Zamboanga Archbishop , for his part, also urged tions create a resonance in the depth of Asia’s follows only the Pope. Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and East Timor, the authorities to “do something effective” in pursuing “this lawless heart,” they added. Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales which are Church territories with less than elements involved in kidnappings.” “We are convinced that meaningful, contem- of Manila and Ricardo Cardinal Vidal of three dioceses or ecclesiastical territories. “The government must stop this whole thing (violence in Mind- anao). For one thing, those innocents—Muslims and Christians—are Whatever / A4 the most affected here,” he said. becomes reluctant to ask his parents for advice, afraid to be misun- she said. Jumoad also appealed to the government to get down to busi- derstood in something hard to express. Moreover, the condition is “Then, couple this with frequent confession and spiritual guidance. ness and address the root cause of the insurgency problem in compounded when his ‘tendency’ is confirmed by a host of avail- Thus, one is helped to deepen his convictions in purity, magnanimity Mindanao. able sources found in peers, readings and social networks over the and generosity of the heart.” He said there is a persistent need for the government to go beyond Internet. All these invite the confused person into the bandwagon “I’ll take note of them in our next chat, Father,” she smiled. the “normal” clashes between the Abu Sayyaf and government of homosexuality. “Of course, it is also good to enrich and increase your social deal- troopers. “You mean, false homosexuality, Father?” ings. Widen the base of your friends, with boys and girls. Discern The prelate opined that the solution to the problem of having “Precisely! It is false because one is led to misread his attraction what is positive in each one and what good you can share in your persistent threat from the terror group is to prevent the recruitment towards noble human qualities in another person, such as talents friendship with them.” of more members, especially the young ones. in sports, arts, academics and even in virtues like loyalty and dili- “…but, like you said, Father, it would mean my being a good friend “The government should provide education to the out-of-school gence.” of Jesus first,” she concluded. youth because if they are not in school, normally, they get easily “I now understand you perfectly, Father,” the girl said quite “Well, I guess so. Everything definitely boils down to that. Amen.” recruited,” Jumoad said. enlightened. “But what should I do now to gradually reshape and the priest said. He also said it would be best for the local government to provide form my attraction and emotions in order to avoid their deforming genuine livelihood program that could help alleviate residents from me?” *Helpful sources on this topic. poverty and resist joining anti-government activities. “Before anything else, they don’t distort us. Rather, it is apply- Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, Declaration on the Hu- “I really challenge the mayor, our government to really focus ing our wrong interpretation of them to ourselves that mold us in man Person, regarding certain questions in sexual ethics, and Letter on what is best for our problems of insurgency here in Basilan,” a distorted fashion. In order to properly address these tendencies, regarding the pastoral attention of homosexuals, 1-X-1986. Jumoad furthered. one has to pray about these God-given feelings and ask the Lord for Gerard van den Aardweg, Battle for Normality: A Guide for Self- At least 23 soldiers and an unverified number of Abu Sayyaf purity of heart and intention. This way, one is more aware of them, to Therapy for Homosexuality, IGNATIUS PRESS SAN FRANCISCO, bandits died last Aug. 12 after an almost day-long encounter in channel them properly and turn them into something positive.” PHILIPPINE COPYRIGHT, 1998 by Ignatius Press, First Year of Tipo-Tipo, Basilan. “Positive?” Publication, 1993, Reprinted in the Philippines by National Book It was touted as the bloodiest battle in the island since 2007 al- “Yup. For example, instead of simply getting lost in such fatal Store, Inc. by Special Agreement with Ignatius Press” in collabora- though several collisions between two camps have already taken attractions, one can thank God for having given good things to oth- tion with Theological Centrum (Manila) place since then. ers. We can also be thankful about our own talents and share them Jutta Burggraf Letter to David, Understanding and Helping the Male The Abu Sayyaf is widely-known as a terrorist organization that with others, etc.” Homosexual, Originally published as Cartas a David Acerca de la has alleged links to the Al-Qaeda network of Osama Bin Laden and “I think that’s a pretty good advice that I will try to practice,” Homosexualidad, © Ediciones Palabra, S.A. has been engaged in kidnapping, bombing and extortion activities since 1991. (Roy Lagarde) Zambales / A1 Coordinating Council, at least 10 barangays crops beyond recovery. NASSA has already released 200 bags of Renewal / A3 in Botolan were hit by floods caused by Citing reports from Diocese of Iba’s Social rice for Zambales while repacking of emer- and Manila should be considered. the typhoon that hit Northern Luzon last Action Center, Sr. Rosanne said 4,482 fami- gency relief goods is still ongoing at the The Daejeon assembly held in 2004 described a movement of week. lies or 19,265 persons have been displaced CBCP Compound. These goods will be sent forming the family as the focal point of evangelization toward a with nearly 2,000 families temporarily stay- to Zambales soonest. culture of integral life in Asia. Food, water, medicine ing at 13 evacuation centers. Interested parties may call Alma Caldea, “Our Manila Plenary Assembly would present, I believe, a move- Bishop Lavarias launched an appeal for After Zambales, “Morakot” seriously Program Officer or Elvie Manalansan Relief ment towards rooting Christian life in Asia firmly and dynamically food and medicine. affected Taiwan with hundreds of deaths and Rehab Program Coordinator at 527-4147 in the Word of God and in the Bread of Life, the Eucharist,” said He said the diocese has already conducted in villages and destruction to infrastruc- or email at [email protected] with ad- Quevedo. initial relief operations to help the flood ture and agriculture amounting to some ditional copy for novemberrabbit@yahoo. The prelate stressed the importance of seeing the Daejeon Assem- victims. $365,000. com (CBCPNews) bly and the Manila assembly within the perspective of a continuum But the church leader said more support of renewal. is needed to fully help those hundreds of Coal mine / A1 He cited the various assemblies, institutes, meetings, conferences, victims “scattered” in various evacuation scratch the land and it only destroys the to mining companies. and symposia which the FABC offices had organized towards achiev- centers. land… there is nowhere to go but (destruc- The island of Bicol is gifted with over ing a renewed Church in mission since the 2004 assembly. The victims, he said, are currently in need tion),” Bastes said. 1.2 million metric tons of high-quality coal of food, potable water, medicine, blankets, The church leader made the statement deposits within an 7,000-hectare land area Looking beyond mosquito nets and other basic needs. after Virac Bishop Manolo De Los Santos which the government has allowed to be Quevedo said a renewed and sustained local Church in mission NASSA widens appeal vowed that the church will block the coal mined. has been the dream and the prayer of everyone. CBCP’s National Secretariat of Social mining project in Catanduanes. When converted to cold cash based on the “To live the Eucharist as our present Assembly enjoins is a peak Action (NASSA) has called on all Diocesan Bishop Bastes said all church leaders in Bi- prevailing world market price, this volume moment in the continuum of renewal for the Church in Asia. It is a Social Action Centers and various school col region are ready to extend help to Bishop is worth a whopping P6.2 billion. moment that we all strive to reach and, when reached, it is a moment administrators to help typhoon “Morakot” De Los Santos in stopping the project. The Catanduanes coal district covers over to be perseveringly sustained,” he said. victims in Zambales and Taiwan. “We are in full support of him… not only some 14 upland villages within Panganiban, But maintaining that graced moment towards a renewed Church- In a circular issued today, Sr. Rosanne me but all of us bishops here in Bicol because San Andres and Caramoran that sit at the in-mission can only be possible through God’s grace, Quevedo Mallillin, SPC called on their partners and mining does not help the community but heart of the 1,511 square-kilometer island. said. benefactors to help as “Morakot” brought destroys it,” he said. Coal is the world’s leading source of elec- “The continuum of renewal enables a local church to begin anew havoc to Botolan residents where at least The Catholic hierarchy has been calling on tricity today. However, experts said, it is also when renewal has become moribund, to retrace its steps when a eleven villages have been submerged in the Arroyo administration to cancel mining responsible for about 70 percent of world foundation block of renewal has been weakened or has become floodwaters which rose to about five feet. concessions in the country, warning of envi- carbon emission causing global warming. dormant, or to move forward in the process of renewal as inspired The floods left villagers homeless and farm ronmental damage and the loss of resources (Roy Lagarde) and led by the Spirit of God,” he stressed. (Pinky Barrientos, FSP) CBCP Monitor Vol. 13 No. 17 A7 August 17 - 30, 2009 Diocesan News

News Briefs Cardinal hosts dinner for FABC local working Bishop tells Church committees MANILA—Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales will tender a thanksgiving dinner for members of Local Coor- dinating Committee and heads of Technical Working Groups of the just concluded 9th Plenary Assembly of the Federation of Asian Bishops Conferences (FABC) at the Arzobispado de workers: No politics Manila, August 20. (Pinky Barrientos, FSP) IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay—No politics for be re-admitted after the parish priest and priests and church workers of the Prelature the community decides if he or she is found Manila archdiocese lifts ban on hand-holding in church of Ipil, at least, starting two months before deserving. MANILA— After two months, the head of Manila’s Catholic the filing of certificate of candidacy until the Deserving means that if a church worker Church has lift a ban on close contacts among churchgoers that election day next year. had performed all his or her political ac- he imposed in June due to the rising number of A(H1N1) cases In a Circular Letter 3 dated August 9, Ipil tivities in accordance with the teaching of in the country. This means that the faithful may now receive Bishop Julius S. Tonel instructed all priests, the church. again the Holy Communion by mouth, said Fr Genaro Diwa, church workers, and lay leaders to refrain “This order is to discourage church work- who heads the liturgy ministry of the archdiocese of Manila, in from being involved in activities related to the ers to be instruments of the dirty tactics em- a circular. (CBCPNews) conduct of 2010 elections. ployed by politicians during elections,” the The bishop, in his letter, said the decision same prelature worker stressed. Bishops pledge continued support for pro-life advocacy was arrived after long period of reflection He said it has been observed during the MANILA—Catholic bishops have assured pro-life advocates and discernment what could be the proper past elections that church workers were “uti- of continued support in their fight against the controversial conduct for the church people during the lized by politicians in vote buying and other reproductive health bill. Thirty-six members of the Catholic elections that will conform to the standards dirty tactics simply because they are [in] the Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) all vowed to of the “Church’s catechism.” position of authority as church workers.” fight for and promote a culture of life during a dinner meeting As outlined in the circular, all church work- The circular also ordered all priests to July 9 with PRO-LIFE Philippines Foundation, Inc. (PRO-LIFE) ers and priests are prohibited to solicit or Bishop Julius S. Tonel refrain from celebrating mass in places identi- Board of Trustees at the Pope Pius XII Catholic Center, Manila. receive donations from politicians starting September. fied with a particular politician or political group. (Andrew Isiah P. Bonifacio) A worker of the prelature, who requested not to be named being Tonel, in his circular, did not mince words when he said mass will not in the position to talk, said “the order not to receive anything only be celebrated inside the church. Dominican schools hold exhibit on St. Dominic from politicians during election time is appropriate so as not to com- The prelature worker, however, expressed reservation on the new MANILA—The Dominican Network of Schools, Colleges, and promise the stand of the church on issues related to elections.” election guidelines as mandated in the circular. Universities (DOMNET) held an exhibit at the University of Church workers seeking elective positions or support a politician “It remains to be seen if this circular will be obeyed by all priests, Santo Tomas (UST) Museum on August 4. Dubbed “Reliving the or political groups should ask from the parish priest the permission church workers, and lay leaders,” he said. Legacy of ,” the exhibit aimed at featuring Saint “to be on leave” during the period, the circular said. But the circular is “one positive step towards a good Church Dominic de Guzman’s life to the Thomasian youth. (Ruben A church worker who was active in the political exercise can only catechism”, he ended. (Antonio M. Manaytay) Jeffrey A. Asuncion)

Church leaders join protest vs QC parking fee ordinance QUEZON CITY—Catholic Church leaders have joined protests against a proposed ordinance, which seeks to impose parking Religious presses church, civil fees on ‘places of special interests’ in Quezon City. The Diocese of Cubao is spearheading a signature campaign against pro- posed Street Pay Parking Ordinance 2009-05. Cubao Bishop Honesto Ongtioco said the measure is now being initiated for society unity for 2010 polls adoption by the City Council of Quezon City. (Roy Lagarde) —A Redemptorist brother safety and protect the sacred exercise of our guns,” said Gaspar. Be faithful, just as Christ is faithful— Laguna Prelate has seen the need for the civil society and democracy,” Gaspar told CBCPNews shortly He also said that the major problem in SAN PABLO CITY— Bishop Leo M. Drona urged priests, reli- Church leaders to unite for the coming 2010 after his talk with the Gagmay’ng Kristoha- Davao City is “political dynasty” that is gious of the Diocese of San Pablo to emulate Christ as the Good elections especially here in Davao City to nong Katilingban Social Action coordinators seen to become more problematic especially Shepherd and to be faithful just as Christ is ever faithful. Bishop prevent bloodshed. of the Our Mother of Perpetual Help Parish during election. Drona said, “‘When faithfulness is lived to the full in our life, it Redemptorist Brother Karl Gaspar on Aug. in Bajada on Sunday. Gaspar also emphasized the need to have becomes identical to love. ‘The love of Christ must be the love 16 said the civil and Church groups can be Gaspar said that only if the civil society political education among the electorate and of the priest.’” (Fr. Romulo O. Ponte) united especially in monitoring the flow of and the Church will become strong, united the realization of the need for political and electoral process starting from pre-election and firm in their stand to uphold the safe moral transformation of leaders who will be Baguio diocese launches OFW program to post-election activities. and free exercise of electoral process that elected in the position. BAGUIO CITY—The Diocese of Baguio has officially launched He added that since time immemorial further shedding of blood and anomalies While he did not expound further on the the Diocesan Awareness Seminar on Migrants’ the efforts of the civil and Church groups will be prevented. types of candidates to be voted upon, he, (DASMA) last August 5 at the Diocesan Pastoral Center in is noted as credible especially in drawing “Although I don’t have the sufficient data however mentioned to always reconsider the Baguio City. This program for the Overseas Filipino Workers out public support for social and moral for the moment but I am picking it up from stand of the candidates especially on matters (OFWs) was established through the initiative of the Migrants transformation. my conversations with various people that of social issues affecting the welfare of the Desk and the Diocesan Social Action Commission (DSAC). “We can see now that in Davao City there the 2010 elections in Davao City can be very people like life and justice. (CBCPNews) will be a tough electoral process. The city can rough and apprehensive considering that “I assume that we know well those issues be a hotspot in the election so all the more both political parties here have already em- that are of great significance particularly in diocese holds Mass for Cory we need to pray and to unite to ensure the ployed various mechanisms from money to our city,” he ended. (Mark S. Ventura) LAOAG CITY—A Memorial Mass was celebrated in honor of President Corazon Aquino on Aug. 5, at the Carmelite Mon- astery, this city, the bailiwick of then strongman Ferdinand Edralin Marcos. Laoag Bishop Sergio Utleg said the diocese Peace education in Mindanao sought earlier organized healing Masses when the former chief execu- tive was still confined at the Makati Medical Center due to colon DAVAO CITY, August 7, 2009— In consonance with the peace preferably located in Cagayan de Oro City or in another place as the cancer. (Mark Vertido) program of the government, an educational institution for peace is operations and activities of the academy may require. now being sought in order to promote the spirit of understanding, The President of the Philippines will appoint a chancellor that Seminar on restorative justice held in Tacloban tolerance and peaceful co-existence. will head the academy. TACLOBAN CITY—Several prison ministry volunteers and Anak Mindanao party-list Rep. Ariel Hernandez said that peace Hernandez is hoping that the establishment of the Peace in Min- advocates from government and non-government organizations education is necessary so that the young people will really understand danao Academy will contribute greatly to the task of educating for attended the recently held seminar-workshop on restorative the necessity of peacemaking especially in Mindanao that for decades peace in Mindanao. (Mark S. Ventura) justice and alternatives to imprisonment, in Tacloban City last now have suffered so August 4-5. It was intended to help the participants fully under- much violence brought stand the context of restorative justice, alternatives to imprison- about by war. ment and other relevant UN documents. (Kate Laceda) Hernandez authored the House Bill 6624 or East Samar couples hold ‘Forward in Christ’ retreat the “Peace in Mind- anaw Academy Act” BORONGAN, Eastern Samar—More than three hundred emphasizing the need and Singles for Christ leaders attended the for peace education re-echo of Forward in Christ Weekend Retreat on August 8, training to the people 2009 in Borongan, Eastern Samar. The retreat was started with and communities in a Eucharistic Celebration presided over by Rev. Fr. Leroy Geli, Mindanao. moderator of the team ministry of the Nativity of our Lady In a communiqué Parish in Borongan. (Vanessa Puno) sent to CBCPNews, Hernandez said the TBMC holds media education seminar academy will be a DAVAO CITY—In a bid to create critical and responsible move- ground for the stimu- ment of people in the media, the Media Center lation of cooperation (TBMC), a Carmelite Media ministry the “2009 Titus Brandsma among the people and Media Education Seminar for Mindanao.” The seminar was help lessen obstacles held at the Apo View Hotel on Aug. 17-18 and was attended and threats to peace by media educators in the academe, groups and communities. and progress. (Mark Ventura) “The bill declares as a policy in managing PGMA performance upsets GSAC regional conflict and DAVAO CITY—The Gagmay’ng Kristohanong Katilingban the pursuit of sustain- Social Action Coordinators (GSAC) based here has given Presi- able peace through ed- dent Arroyo in her performance a failing grade. The group said ucation and training,” Arroyo has not done enough to solve problems like unemploy- he said, adding: ment, poverty and corruption. (CBCPNews) “With proper peace education and training, Archbishop Capalla: Cory’s death heals broken relations a just, comprehensive DAVAO CITY—More than being an icon of democracy, Arch- and sustainable peace, bishop said, former President Aquino is a which is the basic foun- pious Catholic leader whose spirit is adored by Filipinos. He dation for social and said that just as she restored democracy when she was still economic development alive, after her death, she is mysteriously restoring people’s and national prosper- loss or lukewarm faith and restoring broken friendships and ity will be attained.” heal broken relationships. (CBCPNews) The bill includes provision mandating Jesuit priest recalls Cory as brave, pious woman the academy to offer DAVAO CITY—She’s not totally dead. Her mortal body is but a combination of aca- her spirit lives on. This is how EDSA 1 veteran and Jesuit priest demic inputs, research, Fr. Renato Ocampo would like to remember former president field-based learning, Aquino. Ocampo, currently the campus chaplain of the Ateneo community-based in- de Davao University, said he wants to remember Mrs Aquino as teractions and rehabili- a great persona in the bloodless EDSA tation service. that gained prestige all over the globe. (Mark Ventura) If push through, the academy will offer sub- BUC to hold special FGD for M’danao’s working press jects in conflict analysis DAVAO CITY—The Konsult Mindanao, an initiative of the and conflict transfor- Bishops –Ulama Conference will conduct a special focus group mation, conflict man- discussion (FGD) for the members of the press in Mindanao agement and peace- on August 22. The FGD session will be facilitated by Fr. Albert building, transitional Alejo, SJ, at the Mindanao Training and Resource Center in and restorative justice Davao Medical School Compound. (CBCPNews) and demobilization. The academy will be CBCP Monitor A8 Vol. 13 No. 17 People, Facts & Places August 17 - 30, 2009

Timuay José “Boy” Anoy, a Subanon Tribal Leader, leads the prayer at the opening rites of the Second Session of United Nations Expert Mechanism on the Tribal leader leads Rights of Indigenous Peoples (EMRIP) in Geneva, Switzerland. opening prayer at A PRIVILEGE usually reserved for leaders of the world has been bestowed on a Filipino tribal leader at the opening rites of the Second Session of the United Nations Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (EMRIP) in Geneva, Switzerland on August 10. UN session Timuay José “Boy” Anoy, a Subanon Tribal The IP elder, together with another Subanon the Council with thematic expertise, studies and Leader said a Subanon prayer at the opening Leader Timuay Noval Lambo and Ifugao rep- research-based advice. of the second session asking for wisdom and resentative Peter Duyapat have participated in The UN body is composed of five indepen- clarity for all participants as they deliberated the five-day session to share their experience on dent, indigenous experts. on issues. human rights’ violations of large-scale mining One of the current experts is a Filipino Igorot, The tribal elder also prayed for all indigenous companies that operate in their areas. Mr. José Mencio Molintas. peoples from all over the world, for respect and They proposed some recommendations on More than 400 indigenous delegates and their recognition of their rights, as well as reparation how to address the violations of large-scale supporters all over the world have participated for abuses done on them. mining companies of their rights to land and in the UN session together with the official Timuay Anoy sprinkled water on the session self determination, as well as the government’s representatives of governments. (Pinky Bar- hall to symbolize clarity of thought and cool- lack of support to compensate for damages. rientos, FSP) ness of minds. The IP leaders likewise attended the 75th Ses- sion of the UN Committee on the Elimination of all forms of racial discrimina- tion (UNCERD) to present a report on the plight of Markings Indigenous Peoples in the Philippines to the com- CELEBRATED. Most Rev. Florentino Fer- mittee. rer Cinense, DD, 25th Episcopal Ordination They also participated anniversary, July 14, 2009. Currently the in a hearing on the com- bishop of Tarlac, Bishop Cinense is a native of Guimba, Nueva Ecija. He was ordained plaint filed against the bishop on July 14, 1984 at San Jose City,

© ATM © Philippine government by Nueva Ecija, He finished his seminary training Filipino Tribal Leaders, Timuay Boy Anoy (right) and the Subanon community. at Mary Help of Christians Seminary and took Timuay Noval Lambo (left) attended the United Nation’s The EMRIP was created further studies in Philosophy and Theology in Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination by the UN Human Rights UST Central Seminary. In 1973, he received (UNCERD) hearing on a complaint filed against the his doctorate in Philosophy from Angelicum Philippine Government by the Subanon community. Council (HRC) to provide University in Rome. Bishop Cinense marked

© ATM © his anniversary with a Holy Mass at the newly renovated San Sebastian Cathedral in Tarlac City. The Eucharist concelebrated by 24 arch/bishops and over a hundred priests had Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines, Most Rev. Edward Joseph as homilist.

Asian missionaries convene Bi- CITED. Father Catalino G. Arevalo, SJ, by the Federation of Asian Bishops Confer- ences (FABC) for his invaluable contribu- tion to the body since its inception, August Annual Continental Assembly 15, 2009, during its 9th Plenary Assembly at the Pope Pius XII Center, Manila. Fr. OFFICIALS of the Mission Society around Arévalo has served the Federation of Asia convened for the Bi-Annual Continental Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC) Assembly last August 6-10 at the Maryknoll since its beginnings in 1970. In November of that year, when Pope Paul VI visited House in San Juan, Metro Manila. Manila and gathered together 180 Asian Representatives for the Philippines were bishops, Father Arévalo already served Fr. Alfredo Africa, Jr., MSP, Father Modera- as peritus (resource person) for this first- tor of the Mission Society of the Philippines ever Asian Bishops’ Meeting. From this (MSP); Fr. Patricio Casino, MSP, Secretary organizational gathering, the FABC would soon emerge—with a wide vision of service for all God’s peoples of Asia. In 1974, at the First FABC General of MSP; Msgr. Esteban Lo, LRMS, Plenary Assembly in Taipei, Taiwan, Fr. Arévalo was the principal writing Father Moderator of the Mis- consultant for the first statement of the Federation, titled Evangelization in sion Society (LRMS); Fr. Jose Vidamor Yu, Modern Day Asia. As an integral part of his service as theological advisor © www.msp.org.ph © www.msp.org.ph LRMS, Deputy Father Moderator of the for the FABC bishops (1970-1995), Fr. Arévalo was named in 1985 the LRMS; and Fr. James Kroeger, MM, Missionary Societies of Apostolic philosophical and theological formation on Missiology, and the first convener and founding member of the Asian Bishops’ Theological Life (AMSAL) Secretary. Advisory Commission (TAC). He was the first and for many years the only preparation for the field mission, were among the significant topics Asian to serve on the Pontifical International Theological Commission. He Other participants present were Fr. Augustine Kim, KMS, Superior discussed. was executive coordinator and program director for two major theological General of the Korean Missionary Society (South Korea); Fr. Adriano Casino from the Philippines discussed on the method and con- conferences held in Manila, the International Congress on Mission (1979) Pelosin, Superior of the Thai Mission Society (Thailand); Bishop notation of the “pontifical recognition” while Theckanath from and the International Conference on the Alliance of Two Hearts (1987). In Nicholas Mang Thang, founder of the Little Way Missionary Priests India presented the Federation Asian Bishops Conference-Office of 1997 His Eminence, Jaime Cardinal L. Sin, Archbishop of Manila, conferred of St .Therese (Myanmar); Fr. Peter Than, Seminary Rector of the upon him the award Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice and identified him as “the Evangelization (FABC-OE) and its various projects and activities. Dean of All Filipino Theologians and the Godfather of hundreds of priests.” Little Way Missionary Priests (Myanmar); Fr. Antony Perumanoor, This gathering that was organized by the Asian Mission Societies When he received the degree of Doctor of Humanities, honoris causa, from MST, Deputy Director General of the Mission Society of St. Thomas of Apostolic Life (AMSAL) had the theme “Initial and Continuing the Ateneo de Manila University in 1998, Father Arévalo was identified as the Apostle (India); and Fr. Theckanath, Executive Secretary Formation.” “Father of Asian Theology,” owing to his more than 9,000 pages of theo- of the FABC Office of Evangelization (India). AMSAL is a group of missionary societies that concentrates on logical writing “with an Asian emphasis.” Fr. Arévalo has always remained The spiritual and missionary components of development, foreign missionary apostolate. (Kate Laceda) involved in pastoral ministry in a variety of . Former Philippine President Corazon Aquino has revealed that Arevalo has been her family’s spiritual confidant since the assassination of her husband Ninoy Aquino in 1983. She related that during that time she prayed at a church in Boston for a Filipino priest with whom she could talk. The following day, she said, Fr. Arévalo was at her doorstep. When Corazon “Tita Cory” Aquino was CBCP, Pioneer Life launches financial finally laid to rest on August 5, 2009, Fr. Arévalo preached her funeral A MEMORANDUM of Understanding homily—fulfilling her and her family’s personal request. (MOU) has been signed between the Catholic CELEBRATED. Society of Di- Bishops Conference of the Philippines-Epis- program for OFW families vine Word (SVD), 100 years of copal Commission for the Pastoral Care of founding anniversary, August 15, Migrants and Itinerant People (CBCP-ECMI) sion of ECMI regarding the migrant workers abroad, no matter how young or old they 2009. In celebration with its 100 and the Pioneer Life Inc. for the launching of and their families. may be, children of OFWs can hope for the years, SVD Philippines has orga- nized various activities having the Pamilyang OFW Savers and Wellness Club. “Our aim is to complement one of CBCP- earlier return of their parent-OFWs to the theme, “WITNESS to the WORD: The signing of the agreement was held at ECMI’s objectives of making the sons and Philippines,” he said. WE REMEMBER... WE RE- the St. Mary’s Academy in Kalookan City daughters of OFWs productive partners of For his part, Edmund Ruga, ECMI Luzon JOICE... WE RENEW…” “Join us last July 29. their families. By doing their part in respon- Coordinator, has also expressed the reason in REMEMBERING the memories Pamilyang OFW Savers and Wellness sibly managing the money they receive from for their partnership with the Pioneer Life. and sacrifices of doing mission for Club is a program for the families of the “We partnered with Pioneer because we 100 years; CELEBRATE with us the abundant blessings and successes reaped throughout these years; and Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) that aims saw their sincerity in working towards the one with you in RENEWING ourselves to the mission bequeathed to us to address their financial wellness. same objective of helping the families save by the pioneers of the Philippine SVD mission,” Fr. Nielo Cantilado, SVD, It intends to help them bank the remittanc- and invest for the future,” he said. Provincial Superior of SVD Philippine Central Province, said as he stated es they receive through a savings program He added that the constant support of the the meaning of the theme. Among the activities held were the concert titled, such as a saver’s ID bundled with a saving insurance company on this program will have “Experience 100!” last August 13 at the Arena Multi-Purpose Gym in San Juan City; a Eucharistic Celebration presided by Fr. Antonio Pernia, SVD and investing account. “a greater chance of bringing the Filipino Father General at the of the Divine Word, Christ the King Mission The program is a “financial wellness work- families back together after being separated Seminary, in Quezon City last August 14; and Grand Homecoming of SVDs shop” where the diocesan migrant’s desk because of the need to earn money abroad.” and XVDs last August 15 in Quezon City. The commemoration will continue and the some related organizations discuss Pioneer Life is one of the more reputable as it set for the forthcoming activities for the 100 years of the congregation. helpful saving and investment tips. insurance institutions in the country today. On August 18-19, the Philippine Southern Province has prepared various activities for the big celebration in Cebu, while the celebration of the SVD Lorenzo Chan, CEO of Pioneer Life, said It has an extensive network of 34 branches in Tagaytay is set on August 20. A Eucharistic celebration will be presided their company intends to help pursue the vi- Contributed photo throughout the country. (CBCPNews) by the Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines, Archbishop Edward Joseph Adams on August 22, 2009 in Abra. Although the first missionaries came to Manila on August 15, 1909, August 22 (the date the missionaries set foot in Abra) has been regarded as the concrete date of the establishment Military bishop consecrates chapel inside police camp of the congregation. The culmination of this grand celebration is set on August 23 in the same province wherein a Eucharistic Mass will also be MILITARY Bishop Leopoldo Tu- located at Camp Naranjo PNP traditional . Concelebrants of the Mass were held at the San Isidro Parish, the first parish of the SVD priests. Pernia mulak has consecrated a chapel Provincial Command premises. The consecration of the chapel PNP prov’l chaplain Fr. Marlou will be the main celebrant concelebrated by all the SVD priests. inside a police camp in Oroqui- It could accommodate 100 took place at a thanksgiving Labares, PNP Regional Chaplain CELEBRATED. Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, also known as eta City on August 13. people at a time, had an altar service attended by ranking Fr. Gilbert Ilagan, AFP 1st Tabak Salesian Sisters of Don Bosco (FMA), 137th anniversary of foundation of The newly renovated place of table for divine services, and provincial police officials led by Division chaplain Fr. Domingo the Institute, August 5, 2009, at Don Bosco School, Sta. Mesa, Manila. worship – now called St. Therese was provided with wooden PNP Region 10 Director P/Supt. Labrilla and Fr. Nonoy Dilapiñas The day was marked with a concelebrated Mass presided by Fr. Eligio of the Child Jesus Chapel – is doors and simple windows in Danilo Empedad. of Zamboanga archdiocese. Cruz, SDB, provincial superior of the Salesian Province of Northern Phil- ippines. Seven sisters also marked their anniversary that day. Sr. Agnes PNP Provincial Director Sr. Olano, Sr. Rachel Melissa Flor, Sr. Carmela Barbosa, Sr. Ester Silva and Supt. Leonelo Cabug also graced Sr. Veneranda Casala celebrated their silver anniversary of profession Artist to hold exhibit on Calbayog Church’s history the occasion. of vows while Sr. Adel Villanueva, Sr. Nanny Zamora and Sr. Teresita A HISTORY of Calbayog’s Roman Catholic tion of the Diocese of Calbayog and city fiesta In his homily, the head of the Mislang, celebrated their 40th. of the Phil- Church is the subject of a painting exhibit of a celebration on Sept. 8, the Nativity of Our Lady. DIED. Sr. Milagros Ramos Gregorio, FMA, popular visual artist. Special guests of honor to cut the ceremonial ippines said the chapel inside the 55, on Aug. 2, 2009 after suffering from Armando Escobar Toleza will mount his solo- ribbon are Calbayog bishop Isabelo Abarquez police camp is “a sign of living cancer. She was born on Nov. 26, 1953. painting exhibit titled “Panagna” on September and Samar 1st District Rep. Reynaldo Uy. faith”. She obtained her Licentiate and Doctorate degree in Sacred Theology major in Mariol- 4 at Armando’s Art Gallery, in the city. Toleza has fist started showing his arts by He then called on the Catholic men and women in uniform to ogy at the Faculty of Theology “Marianum” “Panagna”, a Visayan word for prophecy is a joining group exhibits and eventually held his in Rome. A member of the Faculty of legend story of Calbayog’s famous church and solo exhibits not only in the country but also study the life of St. Therese and Theology at Don Bosco Center of Studies public leaders. abroad. emulate her example. in Paranaque City, she was a professor in The artist’s expression of his works is in the me- In 1998, he was one of the 100 artists nation- The military prelate said that Mariology at Pontificia Facolta di Scienze dium of oil on papier-mâché and mixed media. wide who were invited to join the art exhibit aside from being the dell’ Educazione “Auxilium” in Rome for 25 of soldiers, St. Therese is best years and a council member of Pontificia Academia Mariana Internationalis. Toleza, also a native of Calbayog, said that his that was held in celebration of the Philippine She was laid to rest on Aug. 7, 2009 in Manila Memorial Park in Sucat, exhibit is in keeping with the centennial celebra- Centennial. (CBCPNews) known for her “little acts of kind- Paranaque City. ness”. (Wendell Talibong) CBCP Monitor Vol. 13 No. 17 B1 August 17 - 30, 2009 Pastoral Concerns

Clockwise: Papal envoy Francis Cardinal Arinze receives a token from FABC secretary general Archbishop Orlando Quevedo; Papal nuncio Archbishop Edward Joseph Adams (right) enters the Pius XII auditorium before the concluding Mass of the FABC 9th plenary assembly; Bishops converse before a Eucha- ristic celebration; and Prelates pray before FABC: From Daejeon mass during the plenary assembly. © Roy Lagarde/CBCP Media © Roy Lagarde/CBCP to Manila and Beyond A report of the FABC Secretary General, Archbishop Orlando B. Quevedo, OMI, to the 9th FABC Plenary Assembly, held in Manila, August 10-16, 2009.

Introduction dynamic conversation and interaction and the enfleshment of the Body of transformation. We have discovered 5. A movement toward active integral This presentation attempts to provide with these three Asian realities. Christ in a given people, a given place their challenges and implications. How evangelization and a new sense of a perspective from which to view our The fundamental components of a and time. formidable they are! mission. present 9th FABC Plenary Assembly in renewed Church-in-mission that have It is not a community in isolation from The building of a local church is truly 6. A movement toward the context of the previous eight Plenary emerged repeatedly in various FABC other communities of the Church one an enormous and daunting task of “empowerment” of the laity in the Assemblies. plenary assemblies, institutes and and catholic. Rather it seeks communion renewal, a thoroughgoing renewal that mission of the Church, requiring a I hope to do this in terms of a formation sessions could be integrated with all of them. With them it professes encompasses the renewal of mission, spirituality of discipleship; continuum of renewal that began at the in the following vision: one faith, shares the one Spirit and the of faith and prayer life, of community, 7. A movement toward active 1st FABC Plenary Assembly in Taipei one sacramental life. In a special way clergy, laity and religious, of church involvement in generating and serving and is continuing today in the 9th The Church in Asia is in a renewed mission it rejoices in its communion and filial structures and ministries, of leadership life in the light of death-dealing forces Plenary Assembly here in Manila. of telling in word and deed the story of our oneness with the See of Peter, which styles, etc. in Asia; From that same continuum perspective, unique Savior, the Lord Jesus, to all Asians. presides over the universal Church in Renewal in Asia has been guided, I 8. A movement toward the triple I shall present a summary of the activities As a community of faith led by the Spirit of love. believe, by the following key principles: dialogue - with other faiths, with the of the FABC Offices since the 8th Plenary Jesus, it is rooted firmly in the cultures of Asia The local church is a church incarnate co-responsibility, participation, poor and with cultures. Assembly in Daejeon, Korea in 2004. and in dynamic dialogue with other religions. in a people, a church indigenous committed engagement in mission It is within the framework of a Finally I would like very briefly to It is a Church-in-mission, a communion and inculturated. And this means with its constitutive dimension of social movement toward a renewed Church- suggest how Episcopal Conferences in of communities and the humble herald concretely a church in continuous, transformation, contextualization, in-mission or toward the building of Asia could move forward in the task of and servant of the Gospel, accompanying humble and loving dialogue with authenticity and credibility. the Local Church, that I propose a Church renewal. the peoples of Asia towards full life in the the living traditions, the cultures, the Again and again these key principles perspective of considering the meaning Reign of God. religions—in brief, with all the life- are cited in FABC assemblies, Bishops’ of the Plenary Assemblies in Daejeon A vision of a renewed Church-in- and Manila. Mission The Church in Asia is in a renewed mission of telling in word and Daejeon described a movement of Gathered in Taipei 35 years ago in 1974 forming the family as the focal point at their First Plenary Assembly the Asian deed the story of our unique Savior, the Lord Jesus, to all Asians. As of evangelization toward a culture of Bishops articulated what today remains a community of faith led by the Spirit of Jesus, it is rooted firmly in integral life in Asia. as the overarching pastoral vision and the cultures of Asia and in dynamic dialogue with other religions. It Our Manila Plenary Assembly would direction of the Church in Asia. present, I believe, a movement towards It was a vision of renewed Church is a Church-in-mission, a communion of communities and the humble rooting Christian life in Asia firmly and in a mission of integral evangelization. herald and servant of the Gospel, accompanying the peoples of Asia dynamically in the Word of God and in Its locus is the continent of Asia with a towards full life in the Reign of God. the Bread of Life, the Eucharist. distinctive three-fold characteristic: Renewal is a continuum of movements * Asia as a vast continent remarkably Such a vision of the Church-in-mission realities of the people in whose midst Institutes, programs and plans. Again that might have different beginnings but enriched with a brilliant mosaic of is translated into the primary pastoral it has sunk its roots deeply and whose and again they are identified by scholars has no end. Church renewal is today and ancient cultures that had to a substantive focus of the FABC, so remarkably history and life it gladly makes its own. It who have written doctoral dissertations always. There are periods of dormancy extent determined their civilizations; articulated by the Asian Bishops in 1974. seeks to share in whatever truly belongs on various pastoral themes developed and periods of awakening, periods of * Asia as the cradle of ancient religious In this age of materialist secularism and to that people: its meaning and its by FABC through the years. decline as well as periods of intense and philosophical traditions of the world relativism many people are losing sight values, its aspirations, its thoughts and In the light of the above vision and key sustained renewal. Church renewal is (Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity, of the fundamental relationship between its language, its songs and its artistry. – guiding principles, the 7th FABC Plenary a process of continuous beginnings, and Islam); universal truths and their particular Even its frailties and failings it assumes, Assembly in Samphran, Thailand moving two steps forward, one step * Asia as the continent of teeming expressions or have somehow drifted so that they too may be healed. For so nine years ago (2000) identified the backward, three steps forward and millions living in massive poverty, away from communion and solidarity. did God’s Son assume the totality of movements of renewal that the Church one step backward. There are also long where two thirds of the world’s poor It is well for us today to recall in full our fallen human condition (save only in Asia is still undergoing, namely: periods of staying in comfort zones, not mightily struggle for life. that magnificent 1974 vision of a local for sin) so that He might make it truly 1. A movement towards a Church of wanting to risk going forward into the In this Asian context the Asian Bishops church: His own, and redeem it in His paschal the Poor and a Church of the Young; uncertainties of transformation. envisioned the mode of mission as To preach the Gospel in Asia today mystery (First FABC Plenary Assembly, 2. A movement toward a “truly local Would this be the experience of Local dialogue, in fact, a three-fold dialogue: we must make the message and life of Final Statement, 1974, nos. 9-12). Church;” Churches in Asia? I believe so. dialogue with the cultures of Asia, Christ truly incarnate in the minds and How many of us Asian Bishops 3. A movement toward deep Thus we need to see the Daejeon dialogue with the religions of Asia, lives of our people. The primary focus have taken our inspiration for Church interiority; Assembly and our own Manila assembly dialogue with the peoples of Asia, of our task of evangelization then, at this renewal from this grand vision of Local 4. A movement toward an authentic in the next few days within that particularly the poor. The mission of time of our history, is the building of a Church! We have reflected deeply community of faith, a communion of continuum of renewal. proclaiming Jesus, the Lord and unique truly local Church on its fundamental components: communities of authentic participation The questions may be: where can a Savior of all, is through a living and For the local church is the realization incarnation, triple dialogue, communion, and co-responsibility; FABC / B2 CBCP Monitor B2 Vol. 13 No. 17 Updates August 17 - 30, 2009 The Canonical Process (Part II) By Fr. Jaime B. Achacoso, 2) Oral Contentious Process, d) Reclamation of damages and having before one’s eyes the J.C.D. which is characterized by the (cc.1729-1730). salvation of souls, which is always following: 5. The Pastoral Character of the supreme law of the Church. a) Predominantly oral, although the Judicial Function in the Despite the seeming divergence Eastern Rites and At times, I have been approached there are some conces¬sions Church between the strict pretension of by Catholic faithful citing some to writing, especially in the The , the processal activity and the grievances against fellow Catholics— introduction of the cause in Lumen Gentium n.27, at the pastoral care of souls, such fellow laypersons, or religious, or at (c.1658). same time that it teaches that pastoral concern is shown by the Orthodox times even clerics. What brings them b) Concentration of the Bishops have the sacred right ecclesiastical judge or tribunal in to consult a priest is oftentimes processal confrontation in one before men, and duty before God, the following: their desire to resolve the matter session—or in a few if one is not to judge within their respective 1) Expeditious Processing— (Father Edward McNamara, professor of liturgy at the Regina amicably—intra Ecclesia—rather enough—in the presence of a competencies, also declares The effort to expedite matters, Apostolorum university, answers the following queries:) than suing in a civil court. What they tribunal as designated by cc.1661 that to them is entrusted fully avoiding that processes take don’t know is that even within the and 1662. This session is called an the pastoral function—i.e., the longer than one year in the first Q1: Is there a real division/separation between Catholics Church, the canonical mechanism audience, and is regulated by the habitual and daily care of their instance, or six months in the of the Latin rite and Catholics of Eastern rites? Is a Catholic exists for legitimate redress. cc.1656-1670 (aside from many flock. No ecclesial function is second instance (c.1453). of the Latin rite debarred in anyway from participating in the After exhausting the extra- canons in the regulation of the excluded from this principle of 2) Flexibility in Processing— liturgy of an Eastern-rite Catholic church? Does a Latin-rite judicial means to resolve a con¬flict, written process, which are also power-service which belongs to The authority given to the Judge Catholic have to follow a procedure before he can participate the faithful—or canonical juridic applicable to the oral one). the Hierarchy. This includes the to do away with procedural in the liturgy of an Eastern-rite Catholic church?—H.W., Port- person—who esteems that a c) More agile and rapid process, judicial function. norms which do not affect legitimate interest has not been and therefore more economical. At first glance, there seems the validity of acts in the oral of-Spain, Trinidad and Tobago satisfied, can exercise his right d) Less thorough than the to be two divergent principles contentious process (c.1670). to action by presenting his cause written process. Hence, the CIC bearing on the processal activity 3) Effort to find a pacific Q2: May a Catholic attend Mass in an Orthodox church? Is before a judicial tribunal. What excludes from this type of process in the Church: solution—arrived at through not the Orthodox Church schismatic?—E.T., Mairé-L’Evescault, follows is a series of acts aimed at the causes of matrimonial nullity 1st, The Institutional Finality consensus preferably before the France obtaining a resolutory decision from (c.1690). of the Judicial Process—which start of the process or in any the tribunal. This is the judicial e) Always celebrated with a is directed always to ascertain moment afterwards but before A: Since these two questions are related I will take them process. single judge in the first instance the truth and to apply justice, the sentence is dictated. together. First, there is no division or separation between the Latin rite and the more than 20 Catholic Eastern Churches. There are, however, many differences and distinctions. These multiple distinctions give each Church its characteristic identity within the one fold which is the Catholic Church. The most obvious distinctions are external. Each Church uses a distinct ritual for Mass, the sacraments and sacramentals. For those Churches where there is a corresponding Orthodox Church (for example, the several Byzantine or Melkite Churches, the Coptic, and the Syro-Malankara), an outsider would be hard-put to distinguish between the two celebrations. One key difference with the Orthodox: The Eastern-rite Catholics mention the Pope in the anaphora, or Eucharistic Prayer. Compared to the Latin-rite Church, the Eastern-rite Churches differ in their internal organization. This is evident, for example, in the guiding role of the or major archbishop, the means of selecting bishops, and in some cases the presence of married priests. None of these differences, however, constitute a separation of faith or of communion with the See of Peter. Because of this, any Catholic may attend, receive Communion, and fulfill the holy day precept at any Catholic rite. There is no formal procedure required before attending, but the ancient principle of “When in Rome, do as the Romans do” should be diligently applied. Thus a Latin Catholic who wishes to attend one of these rites should acquaint himself with the basic practices and demands of the rite and adapt himself accordingly. For example, most Eastern rites remain standing for most of the celebration and do not kneel for the consecration; a Latin should respect this tradition. Some rites have stricter fasting rules before receiving Communion, and as far as possible a Latin should follow suit.

Frequency in attending an Eastern celebration does not www.galenfrysinger.com inscribe a Catholic to that rite, just as an Eastern Catholic who habitually attends the Latin rite does not automatically 4. Kinds of Processes (c.1657). Thus, causes that need to regardless of its consequences 4) Care for procedural become Latin. To formally switch rites in a permanent manner a. Ordinary Processes be heard by a collegiate tribunal— (cf. the classic personification of correctness—of all processal requires a formal procedure. There are two types of ordinary like the cause of matrimonial judicial justice as a blindfolded activi¬ty, thereby avoiding The question is somewhat diverse for the case of Orthodox processes contemplated in the nullity—are excluded from the woman). falling into procedural nullities. Churches, which are not in full communion with Rome but CIC, conceived in their regulation oral contentious process. Certainly, the ecclesiastical 5) Caution in the investigation with reference only to formal which enjoy the apostolic succession and all seven sacraments. judge or tribunal cannot violate prior to penal cases, to protect categories and independently b. Special Processes justice on the grounds of pastoral the good name of the accused While full communion is lacking, the Catholic Church no of the juridic matter, which have Part III of Book VII of the concern. Thus, for example, he (c.1717). longer considers these Churches as being in a formal schism to be submitted to them. Thus, CIC designates with the term cannot decree the nullity of a With all the foregoing or as being excommunicated. both types of processes can be special processes those types of prior marriage where there is discussion, it should become From the Catholic standpoint, a member of the faithful who is used for all types of objects of processes that receive special validity—even for the sake of obvious to the ordinary faithful unable to attend Mass because there is no Catholic celebration litigation. regulation by virtue of the matter, regularizing an existing union— that Canon Law indeed has available, may, if he so wishes, attend and receive Communion 1) Written Contentious which constitute the object of since that would be to falsify the necessary institutions and at an Orthodox Divine Liturgy. Process, which has the following such processes. The special reality. Neither can he disregard mechanisms for the protection Likewise, an Orthodox Christian in a similar situation is characteristics: regulation aims at offering the procedural norms, since these of the rights of all the faithful, allowed to receive Communion and some other sacraments a) Written, as the name implies, peculiar matter in each case a guarantee the protection of the whether they are laypersons, in any Catholic rite. Such an attendance is always optional which means that all the elements specific and suitable treatment to equality of the parts and the members of institutes of and is never obligatory, not even in order to fulfill a festive of the process are in written facilitate a more rigid and correct processal options they enjoy. consecrated life or clerics. What form. precept. resolution. Examples of special 2nd, Canonical Equity and is important at the present time is b) Divided into preclusive processes are: Salus animarum. The Code, in its a greater education on the rights However, not all Orthodox Churches accept this, and some periods, each with a time limit. a) Matrimonial cases (cc.1671- last canon—which is at the same and duties of all the faithful, take a dim view of any form of intercommunion. Once more Certain processal acts can only 1707). time the last canon of the Book so that all might indeed work it is incumbent upon Catholics not to impinge on others’ be carried out within a given b) Nullity of sacred ordination De Processibus—clearly declares together in harmony, for the sensibilities and limit themselves to what is acceptable to each period, since the subsequent (cc.1708-1712). the paradigm for the conduct upbuilding of the Mystical Body particular Church. period offers other processal c) Penal processes (cc.1717- of the ecclesiastical judge: with of Christ which is the Catholic possibilities (cc.1501-1655). 1728). due regard for canonical equity Church.

FABC / B1 Bishop locate his local church in that on the mission of evangelization: (1) inculturation, inter-religious dialogue Daejeon Final Document on the “Family Education, instilling gospel values continuum of renewal? How can the The Congress on Evangelization in and “integral liberation.” It dealt with towards a Culture of Integral Life.” The through family catechesis to meet the FABC Offices be of assistance to the Manila on November 16-20, 1992, special emphasis on “journeying” with striving for integral life is especially challenges of inter-religious marriages, episcopal conferences in their striving to inspired by Pope John Paul’s encyclical the youth of Asia towards authentic impacted by our own understanding of single parenting, migrant workers, etc. towards a renewed Church-in-mission? letter, Redemptoris Missio; (2) The discipleship and “entrusting” them with Christ in the context of Asian realities. as well as through dialogue-encounter Or from another angle, how have the Symposium on “Evangelization in the “active participation” in a Church-in- Thus, in 2005 the OTC published the with various religions. FABC Offices contributed to towards a Light of Ecclesia in Asia.” held in Pattaya, mission. Finally the Congress emphasized papers that had been presented at the Renewal of the Clergy and Religious renewed Church-in-mission since the Thailand, Sept. 3-7, 2002]. the necessity of evangelizing the tools of OTC Theological Colloquium a year towards a Renewed Local Church Daejeon Assembly in 2004? More than 1000 delegates from all the social communications and harnessing before on “The Asian Faces of Christ.” The vision of a renewed Church-in- To respond to this last question that I Episcopal conferences and from most their immense potential for mission. It also issued a reflection paper on mission (“a new way of being Church”) would like to provide a summary report of the associate members of the FABC, This presentation of the 2006 Mission “Religious Freedom in the Context of and the pastoral focus of building of the activities of the FABC Offices, the including observers, participated in the Congress is in fact a summary of the Asia” (FABC Paper, no. 112) the Local Church evidently require details of which will be presented by the Mission Congress in Chiang Mai. concrete work that has been done by But it is not only the Office of the renewal of Clergy and Religious. Offices during this Assembly. The theme was “Telling the Story the FABC Offices since Daejeon, Korea Theological Concerns that does Therefore, the FABC Office of Clergy of Jesus in Asia.” It was inspired to address the vision of FABC and its theological-pastoral reflection on the and Office of Consecrated Life have the The FABC Offices since Daejeon and guided by John Paul II’s post- pastoral focus in the light of the multi- issues that confront the mission of task of assisting Clergy and Religious contributing towards a renewed synodal exhortation, Ecclesia in Asia. It religious and multi-cultural context of integral evangelization, the vision of in their renewal towards a new way of Church-in-mission developed what the Pope had written Asia. Church in Asia, and the primary pastoral being Church. In the movements of Church renewal in in EA: focus of building the Local Church. In its series of seminars for Bishops and Asia, several principles are fundamental: * that “dialogue is a characteristic Theology at the Service of the Church When the other Offices organize their for Priests the Office of Clergy provided the FABC vision of a renewed church-in- mode of the Church’s life in Asia” (EA in Asia own Bishops’ Institutes, symposia, and reflection papers on: Asian Challenges mission, requiring the primary pastoral 32); The work of FABC is basically assemblies, competent resource persons to the Human Formation of Priests, the focus of building the Local Church-in- * that proclamation must be “joyful, pastoral. It is the task of the Office help the Bishops through reflection Identity and Vision of the Priest in the mission; the renewal of clergy, religious patient, and progressive” (EA 2) that of Theological Concerns to deepen papers on the issues. Asian Context, Bishops’ Role in Caring and laity in view of that vision and task; could finally lead to the full explicit theological reflection on issues faced for Priests, Asian Families and Vocations and the principles of communion, co- proclamation of the Good News of by pastoral work. Thus, following the Faith Formation and Education in an to the Priestly and Religious Life, Priestly responsibility and participation. Jesus Christ; suggestion of many Bishops at Daejeon Asian Context Spirituality. These reflections have been In the light of these elements of Church * that proclamation in Asia has to in 2004, the Office of Theological The mission of the Church in Asia and published as FABC Papers. renewal and of the general mandate use “evocative pedagogy” (EA 20), Concerns held a Bishops’ Institute for formation for mission are the concerns In turn the Office for Consecrated of the FABC to assist the Episcopal like that of the Sacred Scriptures, Theological Animation (BITA III) on of the Office of Evangelization and the Life in its first seminar in July 19 – 23, conferences, the FABC Offices have through concrete images and stories the issue of inter-faith marriages in Office of Education and Faith Formation 2005 explored the Role of Religious in organized and conducted assemblies, of Jesus, taking seriously the concrete Hong Kong from May 8 – 12, 2006. 24 (earlier called the Office of Education and the Building Up of the Local Church. institutes, meetings, conferences, and life-situation and cultures of Asian Bishops participated in this theological- School Chaplaincy). Since the Daejeon One hundred two Bishops, Women symposia. peoples; pastoral reflection. Some of the papers Assembly, the Office of Education and and Men Religious, and Lay people * that in many places in Asia, “the presented at BITA III were published Faith Formation has taken the values of from 20 Asian countries participated Renewed Mission in Asia silent witness” of authentic Christian life as FABC Paper, no. 118. The topic was Asians as its fundamental theme. This in this important seminar which took With the active collaboration of the “remains the only way of proclaiming further deepened by OTC in its second theme on values is based on the 8th up the “primary focus” of the mission Catholic Bishops Conference of Thailand, God’s Kingdom” (EA 23). paper “A Few Theological and Pastoral Plenary Assembly’s vision of the Family of evangelization – the building up of the FABC Office of Evangelization In this light the Mission Congress dealt Perspectives of Inter-Faith Marriages in Asia whose values are under siege a truly local church.” organized and conducted the First with telling the story of Jesus through (FABC Paper, no. 127). by the values of an emerging secular, Asian Mission Congress in Chiang Mai, personal experiences and testimonies in In addition, OTC also produced a materialist, consumerist and relativistic Renewal of the Laity towards Thailand, October 18-22, 2006. [In fact various religious and cultural contexts, reflection paper (FABC Paper, no. 120) on culture. Participation the Office of Evangelization had already thus recalling the triple dialogue of the “Respect for Life in the Context of Asia” The Office has also dealt with dialogue The FABC Office of Laity and Family organized two Asia-wide assemblies 1st FABC Plenary Assembly in Taipei - to deepen our understanding of the on moral and religious formation in FABC / B7 B3

CBCP Monitor Vol. 13 No. 17 B3 August 17 - 30, 2009 Diocese

IMPORTANT FACTS Archbishop ………………………………….. 1 Diocesan Priests: The Archdiocese deems very important the formation of lay leaders Filipino ……………………………………... 45 in order to sustain the above-mentioned archdiocesan programs. Religious ………………………………….…. 26 Foreigners ………………………………….. 4 Empowering the laity is so vital for the archdiocese because they are Diocesan Priests Assigned: the primary agents of renewal especially in the grassroots level, i.e., Outside …………………………………….. 5 in the Basic Ecclesial Communities (BECs). The archdiocese realizes Priests on Leave ……………………..……. 3 Retired Priest …………………………….... 1 that the church can truly reach out to the poor and the needy especially Deacons ……………………………………. 2 through the BECs, thus, there’s a need to reinforce and strengthen Religious Brothers ………………………..... 7 Sisters ………………………………………. 227 the lay leaders who are all members of the BECs. Seminaries: Diocesan College ………………………..… 2 Religious College …………………………… 1 Seminarians: Philosophy ………………………………….... 47 Theology ……………………………………... 10 Regency ……………………………………... 10 Diocesan Divisions: Parishes …………………………………….. 30 Quasi-Parish ……………………………….... 4 Population ………………………….. 1, 240, 137 Catholics …………………………… 639, 183 Area ……………………………… 9, 575 sq. km.

ABOVE: Most Rev. Orlando Quevedo, DD. BELOW: Archbishop Mongeau Center

Archdiocese of Cotabato By Fr. Jude Villa as a diocese in 1916. Aware that the When Archbishop Gerard Mongeau, the harmful and destructive influence which is inspired by the biblical stories territory was very wide for only a few OMI resigned in 1980, Archbishop of mass media to family values. It of generosity especially that of St. Jesuit Fathers, the bishop of Zamboanga, Philip Smith, OMI replaced him and also emphasizes the Natural Family Paul’s instructions to to be T H E A r c h d i o c e s e o f Bishop Luis del Rosario, S.J. thought served the archdiocese for 18 years. Planning Method and Responsible mindful of the poor (Gal 2:10). This of bringing new missionaries to take When the latter resigned in 1998, Parenthood as a means to a healthy program was launched in 2007. Cotabato is located in care of his flock. With the help of Fr. Archbishop Orlando B. Quevedo, family life. As a charitable agency of the Central Mindanao covering Ulric Arcand of the Foreign Mission OMI, then Archbishop of Nueva Archdiocese, it aims at spreading most of the civil provinces Society of Paris, Bishop del Rosario Segovia, was appointed Archbishop of C. Schools God’s love through generous giving. invited the Missionary of Mary Cotabato who continues to shepherd The Notre Dame Schools in almost It also provides livelihood projects, of Maguindanao, Sultan Immaculate. After willingly accepting the archdiocese up to the present with every town of the archdiocese play scholarship programs for the youth, Kudarat and some parts of the bishop’s invitation, the first Oblates his auxiliary Most Reverend Jose Colin a vital role in educating the young feeding program, community financial North Cotabato. The total came to Cotabato in 1939. Bagaforo. about social justice. The archdiocese assistance and other relief services for envisions these Notre Dame Schools to victims of both man-made and natural land area of the Archdiocese B. The Missionary Oblates of Mary II. Basic Ecclesial Communities—Our be centers of social transformation by calamities. is 9,575 square kilometers. Immaculate Present Archdiocesan Thrust imparting to the students the different After two years since its launching, Of the 1,240,137 population Among the pioneering Today the Pastoral Programs of Christian values. the program continues to prosper Missionaries were Frs. Emile Bolduc, the Archdiocese are geared towards The Dioceses of Marbel and with the support of the faithful as they 47.25 percent are Catholics, Egide Beaudoin, George Dion, Joseph building and strengthening of Kidapawan and other religious continue to drop their peso coins in the 46 percent are Muslims and Boyd, Cuthbert Billman, Francis the Basic Ecclesial Communities congregations own some of these Piso Serbisyo cans visible in churches, 6.25 percent belong to other McSorley and Fr. Gerard Mongeau as (BEC’s) locally known as Gagmay’ng Notre Dame schools but all the Notre chapels, banks, schools, stores and the first superior. Their first few years Kristohanong Katilingban. Needless Dame Schools are members of the shops. Christian denominations were faced with many challenges but to say, all ministries of the archdiocese Notre Dame Educational Association and religions. Serving the despite all these they were still able to are implementing their programs in (NDEA) who seeks to maintain good F. Youth Ministry Archdiocese are 84 priests— successfully carry out their missionary view of a Renewed Church from the quality education and uphold our A majority of the Archdiocesan thrusts in the province. One of these grassroots level, i.e. the BEC’s up to Catholic faith through the schools’ Programs are closely focusing on the 49 belong to the Diocesan thrusts was to educate the youth in the the archdiocesan level. curriculum. At present the NDEA has youth in parishes and BEC levels, Clergy of Cotabato and the Catholic faith. Because of this, the very a total of 138 Notre Dame schools. more so in the academe particularly rest belongs to the Oblates first Catholic High School called Notre A. Catechetical Ministry through the Notre Dame Schools. Dame was established in Midsayap The ongoing formation of the D. Social Action-Justice and Peace The Archdiocesan Youth Ministry of Mary Immaculate and the town in 1941. faithful is realized particularly in Ministry continues to do its task of leading Marist Fathers. At present, After the war, the Oblates found school catechesis especially for public The Social Action-Justice and and redirecting the youth through there are 227 Women a great opportunity of building elementary and high school students. Peace Center Ministry was created in its continuing formation which is more Notre Dame Schools in the Most of the religious associations also October 1984 in response to the many realized in the ongoing parish youth Religious and 7 Religious whole Province of Cotabato as take part in the catechetical programs challenges that beset the archdiocese visitations and consultations, seminars Brothers who serve in the and workshops on leadership skills, different Archdiocesan on-going updating especially on A majority of the Archdiocesan Programs are closely focusing on the issues that directly concern them Apostolates. youth in parishes and BEC levels, more so in the academe particularly and livelihood training programs through the Notre Dame Schools. The Archdiocesan Youth Ministry that would eventually make them I. The Beginning of the Church in productive and responsible in their Cotabato continues to do its task of leading and redirecting the youth through own local communities especially In the early 1600’s the expansive its continuing formation. With these programs, the Archdiocese in the Basic Ecclesial Communities. territory now covering the whole continues to be very optimistic and hopeful in forming the youth to With these programs the Archdiocese area of the archdiocese was known as continues to be very optimistic and the Cotabato Empire with only a few become vital signs of growth in faith in the archdiocese. hopeful in forming the youth to become settlers who were already practicing vital signs of growth in faith in the Islam – a religion that predates the government became apathetic of the Archdiocese by working which include extreme poverty, archdiocese. Catholicism in the island of Mindanao. in reopening public schools. This specifically for the indigenous peoples environmental destruction and war. When the Spanish Conquistadores opportunity allowed many Notre (lumads) imparting to them the basic Since 1984 this ministry has been G. Lay Leadership (Lay attempted to colonize the territory, Dame Schools to flourish even as far as tenets of our Christian faith. Moreover, conducting programs and services Empowerment) these early settlers aggressively Sulu. By end of 1980 the Notre Dame the continuing formation of the faithful pertaining to Social Justice and Peace The Archdiocese deems very resisted colonization making the Schools reached a total number of in every parish is strengthened in the Concerns. Among the programs it important the formation of lay empire very lightly populated for a sixty high schools, six colleges, twenty BEC level with the hope that all faithful implements are Justice and Peace leaders in order to sustain the above- long time. It was only in the 1900’s that elementary, some kindergarten and a will be strengthened in faith even in the Education, capacity building, project mentioned archdiocesan programs. the population grew due to migration university. Due to this large number of grassroots level. To sustain this hope, planning, fund raising campaigns for Empowering the laity is so vital for of other tribes from the northern schools the Notre Dame Educational the catechetical ministry conducts victims of injustices and conflicts, the archdiocese because they are the islands of Luzon and the Visayas. Association was formed to centralize trainings and seminars for BEC leaders disaster response services and other primary agents of renewal especially its operation. to equip them with skills on how to long-term and sustainable development in the grassroots level, i.e., in the Basic A. The Jesuit Missionaries Aside from establishing schools in empower all their BEC members. projects. After almost fifteen years Ecclesial Communities (BECs). The The first missionaries to set foot in different Parishes, the Oblates also since its creation, this ministry of the archdiocese realizes that the church Cotabato were the Jesuit Fathers who established the following: Printing B. Family and Life Apostolate archdiocese is still committed to foster can truly reach out to the poor and the arrived in Pollok on September 16, Press, Broadcasting Corporation, The BEC as an Archdiocesan Pastoral social transformation in accordance needy especially through the BECs, 1861 together with then Governor of Hospital, Minor Seminary, Social Thrust is visible also in the Family with the Social Teachings of the Church thus, there’s a need to reinforce and Mindanao, Jose Garcia Ruiz. After Action Center, Foundation and Family and Life Apostolate that takes care especially in promoting justice and strengthen the lay leaders who are inspecting the area for almost a year, Program. All these were established of the integral faith-formation of all building peace in all communities. all members of the BECs. Through the Jesuit Fathers opened their first bearing the name Notre Dame. families. This apostolate goes down to This ministry of the archdiocese also the Archdiocesan Pastoral Team mission station in Tamontaka in 1862. With these many significant the parish level to educate, form and works in partnership with the Catholic the archdiocese equips lay leaders The mission was later called “Mission developments in the church in strengthen the families in and through Relief Services (CRS). with basic skills especially in BEC del Rio Grande” and its growth can Cotabato, the Holy See finally declared the Basic Ecclesial Communities. organizing, facilitating Parish Pastoral be attributed to two dedicated Jesuit this Oblate territory as a Prelature Among the programs that Family E. Piso Serbisyo Assemblies and Liturgical Formation Missionaries, Jose Ignacio Guerrico on September 16, 1950. Fr. Gerard and Life Apostolate implements are To further manifest care for the for Lay Ministers. All these programs and Jacinto Juanmarti. Mongeau became its first bishop when the Pre-Cana Conferences, Marriage welfare of the poor and the needy, the are being conducted in the different Many years later “Mission del Rio it was elevated to a diocese in 1978. Enrichment Seminars (MES) and Family archdiocese devised several reach-out parishes hoping to deepen a faithful Grande” became part of the church in Finally, a year later, it became an Encounters (FE). This apostolate also and income generating programs. One commitment in the service of the Zamboanga when it was established archdiocese on December 12, 1979. exerts efforts to monitor and counteract of these programs is Piso Serbisyo Church through the BEC’s. CBCP Monitor B4 Vol. 13 No. 17 Features August 17 - 30, 2009

An insidious endangerment of Human Rights God’s ‘project manager’ in The Socio-Economic spreading His Word sophisms of RH Bill 5043 By Herbert Osio By Tony F. Roxas statement to the US Congress on the Obama It is an axiomatic truth that human rights administration’s interpretation of the term exist only because human life exists! If Despite her very busy schedule, Inez Gonzales, Biblical Apostolate “Reproductive Health” – that it includes human life did not exist, there would be Coordinator of the Parish in Karangalan Village, WORDS are not just tools of ordinary “Women’s Reproductive Rights to “SAFE” no human rights, not even a single right to Pasig City still finds the time and the energy to share God’s Word. day-to-day communication – they can be Abortion - Reproductive Health Education assert, protect, speak or even think of. Ines is an active ‘lifetime member’ of the Philippine Bible Society (PBS). For powerful weapons of persuasion, especially is being forced into the educational Obviously, if all the human rights were many years, she was a partner in Bible distributions for relocated families when packaged neatly and alluringly in curricula of developing countries, with the gathered and arranged in their order of under the Ilaw sa Tahanan Bible Program of PBS. Her day as a project well camouflaged sophisms. usual “human rights” shield being cited as importance, the right to life would be the manager for the National Housing Authority takes her to various towns in This article aims to pinpoint, expose grounds for its necessity and urgency. highest of all because, as already said, it is Bulacan, overseeing resettlement projects for displaced informal settlers. and refute some of those the reality of human life that She seizes opportunities like these to be with the poor to reach out to them, concealed underlying makes all other rights exist. that they, too, may come to know of God’s amazing love. sophisms in the controversial For this reason, the right to Her passion to spread God’s Word also extends to where she and her family RH Bill 5043. life is the principal and all- reside. Driven by her firm belief that the Bible can be a potent weapon against In doing so, much hope encompassing right. poverty, she remains actively engaged in the May They Be One (MTBO) Bible rests on the likelihood that All other lesser rights Campaign that was launched in their parish last January. the majority of RH Bill exist only for the exclusive “People have a lot of problems, especially those from the poor communities. supporters, both in and out of purpose of supporting the I think they will be able to learn the secret of living the happy life, by reading Congress, are only honestly right to life, enriching it, and the Bible and by knowing Christ. If you don’t know Christ, you would not mistaken about the wisdom protecting and strengthening be able to handle your problems,” she intimated. and necessity of the bill. It is it. Hence, we have man’s She also felt that she and her colleagues in the parish Biblical Apostolate for them and for those who basic right to food security were destined to participate in this five-year nationwide program that aims oppose this bill that this because it supports life, his to distribute five million copies of the Bible in five years. paper is primarily intended. right to education because Following the launch of the MTBO Bible Campaign, which is jointly spearheaded As for the minority of RH it enriches his rational life by PBS and the Episcopal Commission for the Biblical Apostolate of the Catholic Bill supporters who persist with knowledge and basic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (ECBA-CBCP), last September, 2008 Ines in their untenable position, skills needed for total human was inspired to draw up a five-year plan to implement the Bible campaign in her it is hoped that there may development, and his right parish. They plan to provide Bibles to 5,000 poor families in five years. be some window left for to the laws of the land that Ines recalled the time she presented the plan to their parish priest, Fr. the light of objective truth protect and strengthen the Apolinario Matilos. “At first, he was quite lukewarm about the project. With to enter. right to life. him being newly installed at the time, it really disrupted the established Among the three pillars Furthermore, any so- internal dynamics of organizations and laity groups in the parish. But a great on which the RH and called “rights” that do the Sex Education Bills in the very opposite—weakening push from PBS led to our first successful Bible distribution in one of our BECs If all the human rights were gathered during the National Bible Sunday last January,” she said, recalling the phone Philippines are anchored are and not supporting the call that she received where she and her community were asked to serve as the following: and arranged in their order of right to life, corrupting an example for visiting Bible Society officials. Fr. Pol, as he is fondly called, 1. RH education is a human importance, the right to life would be and poisoning the tender right; minds of children with a 2. RH education is one way the highest of all because, as already contraceptive culture and to help alleviate poverty; said, it is the reality of human life not enriching their rational 3. RH education gives that makes all other rights exist. For life, and endangering or women the right to exercise destroying the right to life their Freedom of Informed this reason, the right to life is the and not protecting and Choice, an important human principal and all-encompassing right. strengthening it—are rights right. only in name but not in Let us then deal with them seriatim and But just how logically valid really is this reality. Such “rights” do not have any start with the first item above. RH Education claim of being a human moral existence! right? Foreign and local proponents of Therefore, any and all provisions of RH Education Actually Violates Human this bill overlook, fail or refuse to see and Reproductive Health Bill 5043 and all Rights acknowledge the inherent relationships similar provisions found in all bills on Setting the stage for the legalization of of different human rights to one another. sex education and all other related bills abortion, or in conjunction with it, as can be In so doing, all sorts of highly destructive containing such non-existent rights, inferred from Sec. Hillary Clinton’s recent social consequences follow. RH bill / B5 FAQ on Asian Integral Pastoral Approach (AsIPA) (Second of two parts)

4. Is the New Way of Being Church • The Small Christian Community 5. So what is the NEW way and what only about starting Small Christian at the base is also the most basic unit of was wrong with the OLD way? “People have a lot of problems, especially Communities? the local Church. The way to become • There is no intention to say that the those from the poor communities. I think Short answer to that is NO. a Church where laity are more Christ- OLD way was wrong. The OLD way was they will be able to learn the secret of • The New Way of Being Church is centred, more conscious of their mission, the best way for the time but times have a phrase used by the Asian Bishops in can experience communion and can use changed and new things are needed. In living the happy life, by reading the Bible the final statement of their fifth plenary their gifts and talents is through these this case the NEW is actually taking us and by knowing Christ. If you don’t know assembly in Bandung, Indonesia in SCCs. back to the days of the early church to Christ, you would not be able to handle 1990. However, it must be the ‘original’ way. your problems,” Inez said. realized that the statement • The impetus for also contained lengthy AsIPA 5TH General Assembly growth came with the paragraphs about our call renewed vision of the is now an active advocate of May They Be One Bible Campaign. to Evangelize in a new way Regional Major Seminary (REMASE), Catalunan laity at the Second Vatican Following the launch, Ines and her team set on promoting the program to in Asia, a way of reaching Grande, Davao City, Philippines 20-28 October, 2009 Council. We are called to raise awareness and the much-needed funds. They also initiated a solicitation out to our Asian brothers move towards greater care program entitled, “Nag-Donate Ka Na, May Take Home Ka Pa,” wherein and sisters in the way we and concern for those who parishioners can buy three Bibles for the usual price of a single copy and Theme: “Do this in memory of me” (Lk 22:19) pray as individuals and a Bread broken and Word shared in SCCs/BECs are not among the Sunday donate two to poorer members of the community. community. The statement church goers – the people Updates on the ongoing campaign were also made available on the parish’s gives a very clear indication Objectives: of other faiths and those bulletin board. Since January, the parish has distributed over 500 copies of that giving visible and 1. To review and reflect theologically on the experience of the differ- who have fallen away May They Be One Bible. concrete witness to social ent methods of Gospel sharing as a way of breaking the Word from any kind of belief in SCC/BECs. Another vital part of the program is learning to regularly read and reflect responsibility; caring for and church attendance. In on the Word of God. To this end, they have designed Basic Bible Seminars 2. To reflect theologically on how SCCs/BECs break the bread – living the poor - the millions the Eucharist in daily life. the past we were afraid to (BBS), wherein Ines and her team train fellow parishioners on how to use of starving poor, the 3. To facilitate the sharing of experiences and resources among the be influenced by people the Bible to transform their lives. discriminated sectors of participants towards the “new way of being Church”. with different views from “We used to hold our BBS in our church. Back then, we were having a very society including women ours. We avoided places hard time to entice our poor brethren to attend our Bible seminars. Then we Organized by the FABC Office of Laity and Family – AsIPA Desk and the girl-child is our Co-organized and hosted by the Archdiocese of Davao of worship of other faiths. thought, ‘If they can’t afford to come to us, why don’t we [go] to them?’ So only claim to credibility as Now we are called to we decided to reach out to them through our BECs,” she said, adding that a church that claims to love Venue: Regional Major Seminary (REMASE) and Presentation of actively approach all they also coordinated with the various homeowners’ associations in their Mary Sisters’ Retreat House, Catalunan Grande, Davao City, and care for others. Philippines people and search together parish to pitch in the conduct of these monthly seminars. • The ‘New Way’ is for the truth about God and Up until last May, Ines said that their BA has successfully conducted at a movement away from Dates: October 20 – 28th, 2009 ourselves. least 20 Basic Bible Seminars, where an average of 20 individuals graduate some of the old ways that • We are called to move and receive their copy of the Holy Word. She adds that as part of promoting were undermining our Proposed Schedule: towards our neighbour and the program, they hold a short “graduation ceremony” during one of the Oct.20 (Tues.) Arrival, welcome, opening Eucharist at 5:30 pm witness and threatening Welcome dinner and orientation show a more special love Sunday Masses after the last day of their BBS. our health as a Catholic 21 (Wed.) Bible enthronement at 8:30 am for the poor and not only by They also organized weekly Bible sharing groups where BBS graduates Community based on a National reports the occasional handout but from the same community come together to study and reflect on the Holy Gospel life-style. If you 22 (Thurs.) Talk: “SCCs/BECs as Eucharistic Communities” by a solidarity in life-style Scriptures and to fellowship with one another. This is also a venue where 23 (Fri.) Talk: “Breaking the Word in SCCs/BECs” look closely, you will Program and self-restraint. The Irish they encourage one another by sharing how God’s Word has impacted their realize that this New Way 24 (Sat.) Introduction for exposure and departure after Lenten campaign slogan lives and transformed them into better individuals and neighbors. is actually the way we have lunch Bishops’ Meeting one year ran like this “Live “I was especially blessed by the testimony of one of the young women I been called to change by 25 (Sun.) Exposure in different Dioceses/parishes simply so others might 26 (Mon.) Reflection on the Exposure; first draft of final was ministering to in one of my BECs. She confided that after reading and the Second Vatican Council simply life”. learning about God’s Word, she made a difficult decision to end the affair she statement II and the documents 27 (Tues.) Presentation of new modules, planning, Second • We are called to move was having with her neighbor. Despite the thin wall that separates them, she written during and after reading of Final Statement and evaluation, away from the performing said that the Word of God grants her the strength to resist the temptation of the Council. Closing Eucharist; Cultural evening of ritual towards a greater 28 (Wed.) Departure and Tour falling back into sin,” she shared, quickly adding that testimonies like these • The ‘New Way’ is also awareness of how our never fail to bring tears to her eyes. the original way of being ** Evenings: Sharing of pastoral experiences from different coun- lives are penetrated by the While Ines remains hopeful that they would reach more families and Church as we read in the tries meaning of our worship individuals through this Bible campaign, they are having some difficulty Acts of the Apostles. It’s not and the struggles and joys in developing individuals who would teach and promote the Bible to the really new but we moved Participants: National/Diocesan Training Teams using the AsIPA/ of our lives profoundly communities. Despite this, she remains steadfast in the belief that God will Lumko method from Asia (FABC member Conferences and As- away from it for a long time sociates), PNG, Germany and Switzerland affect our worship. The set everything into place to spread His Good News. and would now like to return emphasis in the past was on “I always tell God in my prayers, ‘Lord, you put me here to serve you, I trust that to the Gospel way. Registration fee per participant: doing the right thing in the you would send the help that I need to do what you want me to do,’” she said. • Also the Small * Minimum fee US$25 right way. The call today is Indefatigable in her work, Ines also finds strength and encouragement * Full fee US$ 125 Christian Community is the * Solidarity fee US$ 200 + voluntary donation to relationship, with God from the impact of the Bible in the lives of people that she serves. “When I focus of energies for AsIPA. as Father Son and Holy am able to do this I go home with a light feeling. I never feel tired serving The vision of a communion Exposure: Longer immersion can be planned before or after the General Spirit and in God, with our them. I often feel energized even,” she said. of communities is the New Assembly dates (by special arrangement, with added fee) neighbour. Way of Being Church. • We are reminded of (ECBA and PBS need prayer and financial support to print and distribute the At every level from the the original spirit of unity P50 May They Be One Bible. To know how you can become part of the Campaign Universal Church, Regional Conferences, • AsIPA therefore has as its focus and communion in the early Church. A and obtain appeal envelopes and resource materials, you may get in touch with the Dioceses, Parishes, Neighbourhoods we the SCCs. Having SCCs in our parishes communion based on the Trinity. In the Directors of Regional Biblical Centers in your Diocese or Campaign Coordinators: want to encourage communion in order will impact very significantly the New Way we are called back to being ECBA – Fr. Oscar A. Alunday, SVD – 5279386, 5274157; PBS – Mrs. Perry to witness to unity and participate in the way we structure our Parish Pastoral more community minded and to leave Cartera/Mrs. Juliet J. Rivera – 524 6359 loc. 153-257, or visit their websites: ECBA mission of Christ which was very much Councils, the way we organize our aside the individualism that has crept http://ecba-cbcp.webs.com, PBS www.bible.org.ph.) centred on building community and Ministries, our Liturgy, Catechesis and into our hearts and into the Church from unity. Evangelization. society. (Compiled by Wendy Louis) B5

CBCP Monitor Vol. 13 No. 17 B5 August 17 - 30, 2009 Statements Message of the FABC IX Plenary Assembly Manila, Philippines; 10-16 August 2009 An appeal for prayer for peace in Mindanao

The recent violent encounter in Basilan resulted in 23 deaths from the army and 31 deaths from the Abu Sayyaf. In the context of war, no one wins. For peace in Basilan and other parts of Mindanao, the CBCP appeals for prayer for all the victims and their bereft families. We ask for prayers and Masses for them. In a certain sense, the situation of “unpeace” in one part of the country lessens the peace in other parts because we are all “brothers.” Violence, retaliation and annihilation create more anger in both parties and destroy the seeds of past peace processes. Peace cannot result from violence and retaliation. The victims of such violence and retaliation are innocent lives of victims.

MOST REV. Angel Lagdameo, DD Archbishop of Jaro President, CBCP August 17, 2009 © Roy Lagarde/CBCP Media © Roy Lagarde/CBCP

WE, the 117 participants—Catholic keep in mind that Asia cherishes family, The Call to hear the Word Call to faith and hope Call to mission Bishops of Asia, together with the common meal and community celebrations To celebrate the Eucharist is to live We are pilgrims on earth, walking in Asian celebrations are marked by joy, Papal Envoy, Francis Cardinal Arinze, to foster and promote unity. The Eucharist, in faith, a faith planted, nurtured and lights and shadows, journeying with simplicity and participation. Asian heart Archbishop , the Secretary both sacrifice and meal, was first referred nourished by the Word. It demands anxieties and uncertainties, pains and is energised by contemplating beauty in of the Congregation of Evangelisation of to as the “Supper of the Lord”, and then that we become contemplative sufferings, oftentimes, imposed upon nature. Our Eucharistic celebrations need to Peoples and the fraternal delegates from as the “breaking of the Bread”. These listeners and ponderers of the Word, on us. We cherish the Eucharist, for in touch the hearts of Asians who love colour, other Conferences of Bishops (Australia, names express two important demands like the Virgin Mary, our Mother. Our it we receive the Word of life and light flowers, symbols, music and contemplation. Canada, U.S.A, Spain and the Federation (dimensions): intimacy with Jesus and brothers and sisters of other religions that opens our eyes and the Bread of life Asian symbols, Asian melodies, and even of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference family-like union among those who in Asia have great devotion to their that warms up our hearts. The unity of more Asian values, should make our of Oceania), and FABC Offices and share the bread. Our celebrations should sacred books, and they chant and the Word and Bread in the Eucharist celebrations create a resonance in the depths representatives of our funding partners generate in everyone the courage to build interiorize the Word. This culture invite us to treasure and live both these of Asia’s heart. How great a witness of our (Missio, Misereor and Stichting Porticus), authentic communities that reconcile, of listening is a further invitation to aspects. faith – Christ has come not destroy but to Christian Conference of Asia—gathered forgive, minister to the poor and the become men and women who cherish Without this we would be just perfect – would such a celebration of the in Manila for the IX Plenary Assembly marginalized. and devote themselves to the Word groping in the dark, walking through a Eucharist be! The appeal of Pope John Paul of the FABC (August 10-16). With great Love made perfect in self-sacrifice and to the breaking of the bread. Such tunnel without even a glimmer of hope. II to show forth the Asian face of Jesus to pastoral concern, we came together to by Jesus, and renewed in the Eucharist, listening will certainly issue forth in With both these gifts we shall discover, our brothers and sisters echoes afresh in celebrate, pray, reflect and discern, and calls forth nothing less than a life-style living in the light of the Word. An like the disciples on the way to Emmaus our ears. (Ecclesia in Asia) to provide pastoral orientations and of sacrificial love. This alone can bring ideal context where intense listening (Lk 24:13f), the deeper meaning and the We are convinced that meaningful, recommendations on the theme: “Living about true harmony and peace. Asia’s to the Word can take place is the Small divine call to hope in the midst of all that contemplative, experiential and the Eucharist in Asia.” soul thirsts for universal harmony. Christian Communities (SCCs) that we go through in life: sudden economic prayerful celebration of the Eucharist The Eucharist responds to this quest. dot the map of the Church in Asia. We chaos, increasing global warming, natural has the potential to render the Christian Call to Community Each and every Christian and every remind all those who are entrusted disasters, persecutions, untold sufferings communities of Asia powerful witnesses The theme of the Plenary Assembly community must become what they with the ministry of animating the of people everywhere, especially of of Jesus, witnesses who are bearers of is of great importance for the entire celebrate: unity in diversity. St Paul Eucharistic communities, especially women and children, refugees and of his presence, his love, and his healing Church in Asia, for our life and mission. shows the gift and the task that the priests, that they have a great those deprived of freedom in different power. The celebration of the Eucharist Therefore, every effort must be made Eucharist is in these memorable words: responsibility to make the Eucharist countries of Asia. end with the call to mission: “Go, you to have on-going reflection on its “Because there is one bread, we who are a transforming event, by adequate To those who experience life as are sent forth.” The Eucharist must significance. This, we hope, will result many are one body, for we all partake preparation, and effective celebration, meaningless and (worthless) not worth be lived by becoming communities in a new fervour to make the Eucharistic of the one bread” (1 Cor 10:17). The and in particular by relevant and living, we must bring the memory of of loving concern, hospitality, selfless celebration first and foremost an Eucharist should indeed be the school nourishing homilies. Jesus crucified and risen, the memory service to the poor, the excluded, and encounter with Jesus, the Risen Lord, where we grow in harmony and are There should be devout listening to made alive in the Eucharist, a memory downtrodden. The breaking of the Bread leading to communion. Active and empowered to promote it. the Word every day at home as a family, capable of healing the trauma of must continue. That is the sign that we prayerful participation by hearing the We can not celebrate the Eucharist especially on the eve of Sundays to hopelessness. The Paschal mystery live the Eucharist (Jn 13:1-17). Word and sharing in the breaking of and at the same time maintain, practice prepare for the Eucharist by reading contains the power to interpret our Mary is the “woman of the Eucharist” the Bread will lead us to that personal or tolerate discrimination based on and praying the Word to be proclaimed life experiences. For in Jesus not (Ecclesia de Eucharistia). To her, on the and intimate encounter. religion or race, culture or language, on the Day of the Lord. Such a practice only God is revealed, but also the Feast of the Assumption, we entrusted the In this sacrament, the God of unity comes caste or class. If we are grafted into the will certainly bear fruits of renewal of meaning of our human life with all Church in Asia. May she accompany us in our to permeate and envelope our life – personal Eucharistic Lord, we will reach out and Christian life. It will bring about a culture its richness and vulnerability. His commitment to live the Eucharist in Asia. and societal, bringing the gift of union with become bridge-builders in a world that of listening to the Word in our parishes Word can enlighten every experience him and with one another. We should also is becoming increasingly divisive. and communities. we go through. 16th August 2009

RH bill / B4 because they are naturally unjust provide skills, training, education the one suggesting and by the one Freedom risk of adenomatous carcinomas the “freedom” of misinformed per se, are absolutely null and void and livelihood projects which exercising it. Since the right to safety and the of the cervix is increased in women choice! ab initio and can never be enacted will surely uplift the economic Freedom has a twofold meaning, preservation of good health is an who use oral contraceptives, that validly into any just law! conditions of the poor, and not one negative and the other positive. essential natural and fundamental this risk is greatest in long-term Flawed, invalid and irrelevant insist on flooding poor families The negative meaning of freedom human right second only to the users and users of high progestin In the light of the foregoing The Essential and Universal Cause with pills and condoms which only is the absence of restraint. One is right to life, no man-made laws or potency products, and that the arguments, all three grounds for of Poverty result in the end in damage to the not free to swim, for instance, if his institutions can legitimately nullify, enhanced risk diminishes with the the so-called necessity and urgency Foreign interests who insist and mother’s health and/or the slaying hands and feet are tied or bound. To suspend, replace or violate it any passage of time after cessation of of the RH bill have been shown to strive hard to aggressively control of the unborn. To paraphrase be free to swim, his hands and feet more than can all the nations of the use”. (David B. Thomas, Roberts be flawed, invalid and irrelevant to our population growth most often what one writer once wisely said, should be untied. Or, he must have world pass laws that will eliminate M. Ray, and the World Health its intended conclusion. The only claim that an increase in family size productivity, not pills, condoms or the absence of restraint on him, i.e., or repeal the law of gravity! Organization Study of Neoplasia inescapable course of action left is a cause of poverty. Now, if it is abortions, will end poverty! he must have negative freedom. Hence, a woman who wants to and Steroid Contraceptives; then is to reject and disapprove true that a family becomes poor However, even if his hands and space childbirths is entitled by natural Oral Contraceptives and this controversial bill because the or poorer precisely because of an RH Bill 5043 Denies Women the feet are not tied, if he does not right to methods of child spacing that Invasive Adenocarcinomas and grounds it cites in no way justify increase in family size, then it would Right to Freedom of Choice know how to swim, he still is not are guaranteed absolutely safe, not Adenosquamous Carcinomas its existence. follow that all families that increase Let’s face it. “Freedom of Choice” free to swim. To be truly free, he just “advertised” as safe by supposed of the Uterine Cervix, American And to put things finally in the in family size will always end up is a catch phrase these days that is must have the skill or know-how of medical experts in the service of Journal of Epidemiology, Vol. 144, right perspective, the pro-life cause poor or poorer in the end. But this frequently invoked to rationalize swimming. In short, he must have pharmaceutical firms. No. 3, page 288, Copyright 1996 is not a unique or exclusive concern is clearly not the case because while even the most rapacious, unnatural positive freedom, the presence of a But since only natural family by the Johns Hopkins University of the Roman Catholic Faith. It is it is true that some families end up and indefensible agendas. skill or ability to do something. Only planning methods are guaranteed School of Hygiene and Public a cause deeply rooted in natural poor or poorer, there are also some The economic pundits clearly then can one be truly free to swim. for their safety, then only such Health) law, and is, therefore, the concern that end up even richer in the end, responsible for the global financial True freedom, therefore, means methods may be offered and taught And yet the RH bill, with the of all men of goodwill who uphold, while there are also some that end meltdown that’s adversely affecting having both positive freedom and to them, whether by the government, support of its foreign sponsors protect and defend the sanctity of up about the same as when they countries around the world and negative freedom. foreign funded institutions, or and local counterparts, insists human life and the dignity of the began. Therefore, it is not true that millions and millions of people In regard to the exercise of the private individuals and groups. on letting our female population human person, whether believers an increase in family size is per se claim that they were only exercising freedom of choice, before one The Billings Ovulation Method of reproductive age use these or not in the existence of God or in a cause of poverty. their “freedom of choice” to engage insists on freedom from restraint with its proven 99.98% success rate dangerous and unsafe birth the afterlife. It is the same natural In fact, no less than two Nobel in business. to exercise this right of negative even for irregular fertility cycles is control methods, defying moral law whose binding effect Laureates in Economics, Gary Also, all the billions of inhabitants freedom, one must recognize that one such method. comprehension and scuttling on the conscience of mankind was Backer and Simon Kuznets, and of this planet for the past 100 years there is a prior right and duty In promoting the use of artificial all sense of humaneness. invoked and strongly enforced Resource Economist Julian Simon or so exercised their freedom of to learn how to choose correctly contraceptives, RH Bill 5043 fails or In conclusion, RH Bill 5043 in the historic trials of Nazi war say the same thing. They emphasize choice to use petroleum-based (positive freedom). Otherwise, refuses to divulge to possible users denies Filipino women the right criminals at Nuremberg after World that there is no scientific evidence products as their main source of freedom will be misused, as white the dangers to life and health such to exercise authentic freedom of War II for the mass extermination of proving that an increase in family energy and fuel. Did our freedom collar criminals of Wall Street have contraceptives bring! choice because it only wants them Jews, all crimes against humanity. size is a cause of poverty. of choice make right the now destroyed our world economy Fortunately, of the abounding to exercise negative freedom, the And it is the same natural law that What then is the real cause of almost irreversible damage we and petro-chemical firms and the scientific evidence showing the absence of restraint, without the is the moral bedrock upon which poverty? The essential, immediate, have inflicted on our ecology? billions of inhabitants of this planet dangers to life and health through corresponding positive freedom, the United Nations organization direct and universal cause of Obviously not! who believed them have destroyed the use of contraceptives, no less than the ability to choose correctly, was founded. Hence its universal poverty is non-productivity or Clearly, there is more to the our ecology. Johns Hopkins University School because the truth about the dangers and pervasive binding effect on the insufficient productivity! freedom of choice than just of Hygiene and Public Health, these contraceptives bring to the conscience of mankind as it is the Consequently, if any foreign or exercising it. One must exercise RH Bill 5043 Promotes an the highest medical authority life and health of possible users is ultimate source of natural moral local interests are sincere in wanting this right responsibly. And this can Irresponsible Exercise of the promoting the population control hidden from them. rights, now called human rights, to help solve our poverty problems, be attained only if the meaning of Freedom of Choice: Negative program worldwide, asserts this: In short, this RH Bill wants and the guarantor and protector they can best do so by helping freedom is clearly understood by Freedom without Positive It is, therefore, concluded that our Filipino women to exercise of the Right to Life. CBCP Monitor B6 Vol. 13 No. 17 Reflections August 17 - 30, 2009 The Eucharist as the supreme norm of life Homily on the 21st Sunday of Year B; John 6:60-69; August 23, 2009

By Msgr. Lope C. Robre- In today’s Gospel (John 6:60- country you are dwelling” (Jos who loves the community. dillo 69), a somewhat parallel issue 24:15bc). The people answered: And his relationship with the is being presented to us. It may “We will serve the Lord for he is community becomes itself the be recalled from the previous our God” (Jos 24:18). Similarly, pattern of the relationship that THE Cory magic that drew Sundays that according to John in the New Testament, we who exists among the members— hundreds of thousands to brave Jesus proclaimed his own goal have seen the power of God loving one another, giving up the inclement weather to bid for man to achieve in order to manifested in the life and death of one’s life for the sake of the other goodbye to former President make him happy: eternal life, a Jesus are given the challenge: “Do (Eph 5:23). We cast aside our Aquino had a number of life in which people are one and you want to leave me, too?” (John past life and unite ourselves with significance. Quite apart from love one another, and experience 6:67). Shall we refuse to believe the members of the community being a huge outpouring of freedom and integrity. And that in eating the Wisdom and the in an unbreakable bond of unity affection for her, it could also be just as Cory had a program for Sacrament of God we will attain (cf Eph 5:31). taken an expression of people’s real democracy, Jesus had a everlasting life? John, of course, At the beginning of our dream of what true governance program to attain that form of presents Peter as the model of reflection, we adverted to should be, of which Cory is a life—the bread of life. As we our response to the challenge: the thought that given an symbol. Given a dispensation saw in the preceding Sundays, “Lord, to whom shall we go? atmosphere where lies, injustice, perceived to be rife with grand Jesus, as Eucharist, presented You have the words of eternal abuse of power are perceived scale corruption, electoral himself first as Wisdom—the life. We have come to believe, we to prevail, people yearn for fraud, extrajudicial killings, Word of God, and the Christians, are convinced that you are God’s a new order where there is betrayal of public trust, Cory’s as an implication of Jesus’ holy one” (John 6:69). truth, transparency, justice, and incorruptible character, her claim, are a community of the But the implication of this self-sacrifice, especially among heart for the downtrodden, her Word, hearing it, living it, and yes of Peter to Jesus words is leaders of the nation. Will our truthfulness, simplicity and embodying it. This is what it quite enormous. For to accept national leaders opt for this humility, to mention a few, means to eat the bread of life. Jesus as the supreme norm of dreamed-of new order? Of encapsulate people’s expectation Next, he offered himself as our life means that we decide course, some politicians could from a leader of the nation. Sacrament—the sign of God’s to empty ours and fill it with make this order their slogan, As Lanie Aquino puts it, “her love for his people, manifested in the life of Jesus, which is more but whether they would make it legacy for moral leadership his dying for them, and for this than simply saying that we as their real choice, considering and unequivocal dedication to reason the community lives the imitate him in discipleship. that it would entail loss of power her countrymen will forever spirit of Jesus, he dwells in the Moreover, if we link this to the and privilege, remains to be keep me vigilant against those community, and the community Second Reading (Eph 5:21-32), seen. In the light of the Gospel, people whose only intention is to lives in him. The members of the accepting Jesus as the bread we have to ask: shall we make entrench themselves in the power community share with others all of life implies that we cannot Jesus the supreme norm of his elite core, enriching themselves they have and are, and are filled manifest in ourselves and in our life? Yet, that is what it means in the process, robbing the with the Spirit, manifested in lives the life and death of Jesus to be a Christian. Of course, in Filipino people and the country’s their faces, and in their songs. www.rcam.org without having to form a new our liturgy, we are reminded in resources dry.” In other words, if This, too, is what eating the bread family of God, in much the same the response to the Eucharistic hundred of thousands came out of life means. saving us by giving himself to us the Israelites entered into the way that those who affirmed the Prayer that the right attitude to to see the funeral cortege, it was But the Gospel challenges us: as bread of life? Such a challenge promised land gathered all the Lord as their God at the time of the challenge of Jesus is to say to crystallize where the choice do we accept him as the bread was also offered to the people in tribes and gave them a challenge: Joshua eventually recognized “Amen” to him. That way, we of the people lies—it is on the of life? Do we accept him as the the Old Testament. As the First “Decide today whom you will themselves as the people of God. follow Peter who said, “Lord, to side of truth, incorruptibility, principle, guide, standard and Reading (Jos 24:1-2.15-17.18) serve, the gods your fathers By eating the bread of life, we whom shall we go? You have self-sacrifice, liberality and supreme norm of our lives? Do points out, Joshua at a renewal served beyond the River or the form in the final result God’s the words of eternal life” (John transparency. we accept him as our redeemer, of the covenant in Shechem after gods of the Amorites in whose family headed by Christ himself 6:68).

Fr. Roy Cimagala Guarding the heart Mediatrix mystery By Bishop Pat Alo IT’S, of course, good to take us whether to receive him or Just like we have to be careful products like cigarettes, we are care of the heart. As a vital not in our heart. with our diet to protect our quick to warn people of their THE standing tradition of the Catholic Church organ, all the blood that Thus, our Lord’s plea: “My heart as a vital bodily organ, bad effects, it should be much which we may find in the Holy Rosary litany son, give me your heart.” And circulates in our body passes we need to be prudent in what more so when we promote shows that this aspect of Mary’s intercessory through it to be purified and this appeal is reiterated in one we see and look at, what we forms of entertainment that pumped back to the different of the psalms: “Keep my words hear, how we feel, what we pose a clear and present role as channel of all graces coming from God parts. A body without a heart in the midst of your heart, for imagine and remember, etc., danger to our soul. has already withstood the test of time. There are is simply dead. And with a they are life to those that find to protect our heart as the seat Our current environment is several Churches with the title of Mary Mediatrix malfunctioning heart, that them, and health to all flesh.” of our spiritual life. unfortunately badly polluted as patroness. She has titles such as Immaculate body would be into pure (4,21-22) The story of David who in the spiritual and moral Conception or Queen conceived without original agony. I wonder whether we are peeped on the wife of another sense. There are many devious Spiritually, the heart is doing something in this regard. and later committed sin with tricks embedded in shows sin, Mother of divine grace, Holy Mother of God, absolutely necessary and its What we can immediately see is her and other worse deeds to produced under the name of Mother of the Church, Virgin most powerful, care inalienable. In this sense, carelessness and recklessness cover up his error is classic in artistic freedom and business Virgin most merciful, Ark of the Covenant, Gate the heart refers to our very core in the affairs of our heart. We highlighting the crucial role of that need to be exposed and of Heaven, Refuge of sinners, Comforter of the that gathers and summarizes allow it to go anywhere, hardly our senses in our spiritual life. avoided. afflicted, Help of Christians, Queen of Apostles, all that we are. It’s where our giving any attention to God From early on, even from Of course, the effort required true, ultimate identity can be and his request. childhood, we need to learn for this is going to be gargantuan Queen of Prophets, Queen of Martyrs, Queen of found. We let it welcome, almost the tricky art of how to use our and, given the temper of the all Saints, etc. It is also where God, our indiscriminately, all sorts senses—where to focus them, times, thankless. But I must This is not an impossibility because all we Creator and Father, stays with of things, including those how to protect them from say, it’s all worthwhile. “Vale desire to say is that being the Mother of God she us. He gave it to us to be his that are clearly dangerous danger, how to discard the la pena.” The fruits that can be merited these other titles. God chose her from all home with us. That’s because to us. As a result, all kinds dirt that unavoidably attaches expected can more than make we are nothing without God. of anomalies sprout—pride, to us along the way… up for the costly investment eternity to be the Mother of His Beloved Son Our Let’s remember that God greed, anger, lust, gluttony, I think it is a grave and made. Lord Jesus Christ, the source of grace. God is the sustains everything. In our avarice, laziness, etc. They urgent duty to instill especially If a lot of resources are source, she is the channel, she the humble maid of case, he does that by entering make our heart sclerotic, in the children this discipline, poured into the campaigns of Nazareth. Jesus, the Son of God and Second Person into our heart. Our true identity taking away its tenderness since this is going to be such dubious issues like global of the One Triune God, in obedience to God the and undermining its proper should always include God. indispensable the rest of our warming and the reproductive Father, deigned to become man by the power of We have to learn to welcome functioning. life. We have to develop the health, we should be generous God in our heart, and to keep We have to raise the level of appropriate curriculum and in giving whatever we can to the Holy Spirit in the womb of the Blessed Virgin him there in as best a condition awareness and competence in impart it as widely as possible. promote a better spiritual and Mary. She, the Sorrowful Mother, accompanied as we can “afford.” Though taking care of the heart as our In this area, we cannot afford moral ecology, by giving due the Redeemer at the very foot of the cross. he owns it—he made it, in the abode with God. First, we need to remain in the kindergarten attention to the care we need The prayer of the runs thus: Pour forth, first place—we also own it, to be cautious and attentive to level. to give to our heart as our we beseech Thee, O Lord, Thy grace into our and somehow it depends on the way we use our senses. If in the advertisement of sanctuary with God. hearts; that we, to whom the Incarnation of Christ, Thy Son, was made known by the message of an Bo Sanchez angel, may by His Passion and Cross be brought to the glory of His Resurrection, through the same Christ, our Lord. Amen. At the foot of the Cross Mary was given to us as See your Father’s tears our mother. Such is the very Catholic tradition has understood the episode at the cross: “Near the cross of Jesus there stood his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Cleopas, and . MY throat today feels like it’s on fire. distance. with tears, pleading to me, his tiny hand Seeing his mother there with the whom he I guess I preached too much—my voice That hurts. A lot. reaching for me, whimpering at first, and loved, Jesus said to his mother, ‘Woman, there is finally went on indefinite strike. Let me tell you what my almost two-year then sobbing, “Dada… Dada… Dada.” I your son.’ In turn he said to the disciple, ‘There is So there. I’m feverish and coughing old Benedict did awhile ago. felt my heart was being crushed inside! I thick, sticky, yellow-greenish phlegm. I was a heap of disheveled mess, lying whispered a promise to him. “Benedict, your mother.’ From that hour onward, the disciple (My editor crossed out sixteen other down on the living room floor (it’s much a day will come when you’ll have all of took her into his care.” (Jn. 19: 25-27). adjectives I wrote about the phlegm.) cooler here), when the tiny boy saw me. Dada you want.” Naturally, he didn’t Certainly we might have heard one common Management-Labor negotiations are now From afar, he looked at me quizzically, understand me. opinion or saying of the people that says:” The hand going on between my voice and I. It’s his round eyes narrowing. He then poised In my anguish, I talked to God. Lord, that rocks the cradle rules the world.” This shows bargaining for lesser working hours. And his chubby pointer finger in the air, and is this how You feel sometimes? a kinder boss. he toddler-sprints towards me. Because I know that on planet earth, the distinction and dignity of motherhood. So God’s You know what? Being sick is My son then points to something new on there are days when God doesn’t bless us word that can’t lie nor be mistaken describes thus: crummy. my face: my four-day old moustache. And with what we’re asking for. Because He “Mary then set out for a town in the Hills of Judah. I can’t go out of the house. he starts giggling! You see, my moustache knows that those very things will make us She entered the house of Zechariah and greeted I can’t indulge in my extreme sports. doesn’t grow in the middle part, but sick. Like when we ask for lots of money, Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, (You know how athletic I am. I love only on the sides. Even Benedict saw my or a new job, or that we marry a specific sky-diving, rock-climbing, deep-sea resemblance to Ghengis Khan. someone. Now and then, His answer is the baby suddenly moved within her. Elizabeth was diving, and bungee jumping. You know, Believe me, everything in me just wanted “Nope, it won’t be good for you.” So in filled with Holy Spirit and, giving a loud cry, said, aggressively pressing the remote control to embrace the lovable elf in front of me. our despair, we feel He’s abandoned us. ‘You are most blessed among women and blessed is and watching these things on TV.) How I wanted to just laugh and wrap my So we too cry out in our need, “Dada… the fruit of your womb! The moment your greeting But there’s one thing that I reeeeeally arms around him. Dada… Dada!” sounded in my ears, the baby within me suddenly miss when I’m sick: But I couldn’t. Oh if we only can see the tears welling Embracing the people I love. I didn’t want him to get sick. up in His eyes. moved for joy” (Lk. 1: 39-45). Thus many pray to Embracing my wife. Embracing my So with much pain in my heart, I told his And He also promises us, “A day in Mary (Memorare of St Bernard): “O Mother of the son. mother to get him away from me. eternity is coming when you can get all Word Incarnate, despise not my petition but in your Because I don’t want them to get And all I could do was stare as Benedict of Dada you want.” mercy hear and answer me. Amen.” my germs, I just watch them from a was whisked away, his eyes quickly filling Dear friends, let us wait for this day. B7

CBCP Monitor Vol. 13 No. 17 B7 August 17 - 30, 2009 Social Concerns Global warming in a man-made oven By Fr. Shay Cullen, SSC Humankind is now an agent of change in the geological and environmental history of the evolving planet. It is THE most powerful and deadly typhoon change that is not good for humanity, to hit the Philippines, Taiwan and China the planet’s food supply has evolved one after another this past week left and thrived in a cooler climate if the hundreds dead and million of dollars temperature keeps rising with all that in damage. Landslides in Taiwan buried CO2 and methane and other greenhouse entire villages. In the Philippines, gases we are pumping into the sky, there highways were swept away by floods as will be massive crop failure, draughts if nature was wiping down a table. The and price increases that will cause food ferocity and magnitude of the storms riots and massive social unrest. that repeatedly sweep in from the ever What bothers me the most is that a lot warmer oceans in greater frequency are for that CO2 is absorbed by the oceans, truly shocking. The runaway melting they are more acidic now than they have of huge sections of the ice caps at the been for millions of years, life just can’t poles and the resulting rise in sea levels survive in acidic waters. The sensitive are causing irreversible damage and corals die and then the plankton and the eventual disappearance of low lying bigger fish and then people. Millions of islands like the Maldives. poor coastal dwellers around the world Gloom and doom? Yes! That’s the stark depend on fish. Besides the massive reality and the enormity of the task facing irresponsible commercial fishing fleets the community of nations that will meet are over fishing the oceans with kilometer in Copenhagen this December 7 to 18 wide nets and fishing lines and are driving this year. The leaders have to agree to many species to extinction. massively reduce the burning of fossil The once great forests that girdled the fuels and stop the emissions of CO2 and planet were great absorbers of CO2 that change to wind and solar power and other helped grow more trees but they are not non-polluting, non-nuclear means to there as before. They have been cut down generate electricity. Besides this, humans to provide land to grow corn and grass have to adopt to simpler, less wasteful and for millions of cud chewing cows so the environmentally destructive lifestyles. rich can eat beef. The cows pass millions We should be recycling nearly everything tons of smelly methane gas into the and turning to organic food production atmosphere adding to the thick blanket in a massive scale. of gas around the earth that is blocking The United Nations-sponsored the escape of heat from the earth’s sun meeting has to create strong enforceable Contributed Photo scorched surface. The growing of more global contracts to stop CO2 production, crops like corn, means millions of tons end forest destruction, replant billions so destructive to life. If humans are in world, China and India that burn most are calling a new unprecedented of nitrogen are used and the run off into of trees, promote organic farming and biblical terms “stewards” of the beauty of the fossil fuel in coal and oil-fired geological epoch in the history of the the oceans is a poison killing off all life. reverse the poisoned march of chemical and magnificence of God’s creation, plants to generate electricity. planet, the first ever caused by living Dead zones now affect 245,000 sq. km farming. we are failing miserably. Making these For those who deny that the planet creatures. In the past earthquakes, of ocean waters. We, the public need to support these changes in our way of inhabiting the is heating up for the first time in 11,000 volcanoes, meteors, crashing asteroids We have created poisoned oceans and an UN-brokered planet-saving measures planet and spending lots of money, that years need only to see the resulting and planetary realignments brought atmospheric oven in which we are cooking and help reduce global warming that is burden lies mostly on the developed natural disasters. This is what scientists about geological change. ourselves and the planet to death.

FABC / B2 (earlier called the Office of continues its work of helping and Bishops, Clergy, Religious and common prayer in order to Social Communications has Looking beyond Daejeon and Laity) targets the formation and the youth programs of Episcopal and Laity in 2007. In the past promote better relations. conducted Asian Bishops’ Manila, may I respectfully present renewal of the laity towards conferences and other youth five years the Office has also Finally it collaborated with meetings on “Asian Spirituality to our Episcopal conferences and participation in the mission of groups in forming Asian focused on the plight of Asian the CCA in 6th Congress of for Communications” (Hua Hin, associate members the following the Church. Directly addressing youth leaders and ministers. migrant workers, one of the major Asian Theologians last February, Thailand, 2005) and on “Managing fundamental suggestions on the Daejeon theme, the Office The purpose is to help them pastoral priorities that had been 2009 in Iloilo, Philippines. The Communications for Bishops’ Church renewal: organized a Bishops’ Institute gain the confidence and skill to identified by at least two FABC Congress saw the need for Conferences (Taytay, Rizal, 1. Use the FABC vision of a for the Lay Apostolate (BILA) become active evangelizers and Plenary Assemblies. mission in Asia in humble Philippines, 2006). It organized a renewed Church-in-mission on “Avenues and Approaches community builders. The 4th solidarity with the poor and Round Table discussion seminar and its primary pastoral focus to Respond to the Challenges in Asian Youth Day in Hong Kong The Task of Inter-Religious the oppressed and many other on “Social Communication of building the Local Church Pastoral Care of Families in the in 2006 was especially significant. Dialogue deprived groups. in Religious Traditions of as an inspiration and guide for 21st Century.” Thirteen Asian The theme, “Youth, the Hope Finally the FABC through Finally we have to take note Asia” (Bangkok, 2005). It also renewal. countries participated in the of Asian Families,” connected its Office of Ecumenical and that in many assemblies and devoted its Bishops” Institute 2. Begin with the profound Institute. the Daejeon theme to the role of Inter-Religious Affairs reaches consultations organized by the for Social Communication renewal of clergy and religious The AsIPA desk (Asian Integral Youth. Young people from at least out to brothers and sisters of other Offices, observers and (BISCOM) in 2004 to the theme as servant leaders and authentic Pastoral Approach) of the Office 18 Asian Episcopal conferences other faiths and religions in resource persons from other of “Inter-Religious Dialogue as prophetic witnesses. They are the concentrates on the building of with their bishop-representatives, the mode of dialogue. It has faiths and religions are invited Communication.” main collaborators of Bishops Basic Ecclesial Communities (or including observers from four dealt with formation towards in order to present their own Thus the Office continues to and, given the cultural context Small Christian Communities). European countries and two inter-religious dialogue. For this reflections. develop the various concerns of of Asia, no significant renewal AsIPA is a significant pastoral African countries, participated reason, the Office conducted for the FABC vision of a renewed of the Church can take place approach towards building the in this great gathering of Asian its staff an orientation seminar on Social Communication at the Church-in-mission in terms without their leadership and Local Church as a Church of youth. inter-religious dialogue in 2008. Service of the Church and of of social communication, witnessing. Communion. The AsIPA desk In 2005 in Pattaya, Thailand the FABC significantly contributing depth 3. The renewal of the laity and focuses on the Family as the The Task of Integral Liberation Office organized an important The power of social to these concerns while trying their formation to communion nuclear cell of BECs or SCCs. in Asia consultation with Episcopal communication to influence to place the tools of social and participation has to take The Daejeon Plenary Assembly The Office of Human commissions in the FABC that cultures and foster a new culture communication at the service of place in tandem with the renewal had considered the Family as the Development is the oldest Office deal with ecumenical and inter- has been frequently seen from the Church. of clergy and religious. Only with “focal point of evangelization.” of the FABC, even predating religious affairs. The topic of the its negative side—that today the a committed and participatory As well as publishing training the official establishment of the consultation was on relations tools of social communication The FABC Offices Preparing for laity can church renewal be modules for community building, Federation. It has also been most with those Churches and ecclesial are eroding the treasured values the Manila Assembly enduring and lasting; the desk continues to organize active in organizing seminars communities that have not of Asians and introducing into While the Central Committee 4. The new way of being training sessions in collaboration to enable Bishops to know and taken part in the ecumenical Asia a culture of materialist of the FABC chose the theme of Church in Asia is best expressed with Episcopal conferences to respond to the pastoral challenges movement, particularly secularism, of hedonism, and the present Plenary Assembly, the at the grassroots level through train community facilitators and in the Church’s dialogue with the Evangelicals and Pentecostal relativism. FABC Offices spent considerable the building of Basic Ecclesial leaders. These efforts towards a poor towards integral liberation. Christian communities. The work of the FABC Office time together to work out the Communities or Small Christian “new way of being Church” have Poverty, justice and development The Office continues to of Social Communication has fundamental sub-themes of Communities. They are to be already attracted some members are the main issues that the Office collaborate with the Christian looked at the positive side—at “Living the Eucharist in Asia.” built as believing and praying of the Church in Germany, deals with. Such challenges are Conference of Asia and has the vast potential of social They gave suggestions to the communities of the Lord. bishops, religious and lay people reflected upon in the light of the expanded its collaboration with communications for the mission drafting group, the Office of Centered on the Word and Bread into personally observing SCCs in Social Doctrine of the Church. the holding of a Conference of of evangelization. Theological Concerns, on what of Life they are committed to Korea and adapting the AsIPA In its work the Office of Human Theological Students, already We take for example the work should be considered and treated dialogue with cultures, religious method in a highly secularized Development collaborates with thrice held in 2000, 2005, and of Radio Veritas Asia. Many in the working document for the traditions and with the poor. context. other religious groups, with 2007 exploring such themes Bishops do not know that the Plenary Assembly. 5. In all the above we have The Women’s Desk in turn civil society and various non- as contextualized theological FABC and its member Episcopal Last year, the Youth Desk of to be aware of the possible assists in the empowerment of government organizations and method, feminist theologies, conferences are also responsible the Office of Laity and Family assistance of the Episcopal Asian women in responding to most especially with the Justice and Islam. for Radio Veritas and that it is drew up and administered a Conferences. Today you might challenges facing the Family, and Peace Commissions and/or With the Pontifical Council for our task to help support it. Youth survey on the Eucharist have become better aware of the Church and society. For this Caritas organizations of Asian Promoting Christian Unity and When asked, what is Radio in order to help the catechetical the assistance that the FABC purpose it has organized seminars Episcopal conferences. the Catholic Bishops’ Conference Veritas Asia really doing? The ministry of Episcopal conferences Offices can offer through their for women, particularly one on Thus, together with the of Korea, the FABC-OEIA simple answer is: “Immense!” It in the faith formation of the Bishops’ Institutes, consultation the discipleship of women in the Pontifical Council for Justice and participated in a Colloquium broadcasts religious programs youth. At the same time, the and training sessions, formation Asian context. Especially notable Peace and the Catholic Bishops’ in 2006 together with Bishops and news to the remotest corners Office of Education and Faith modules and publications. was a very helpful dialogue Conference of Thailand, the Office mostly from East and Southeast of Asia in their own language, Formation did a consultation in 2008 between bishops and presented the Compendium of Asia. It identified different especially where the Good News on the “Eucharist and Education Conclusion women theologians. the Social Doctrine of the Church priorities such as formation for is especially needed. in Asia.” Finally, the Office The continuum of renewal Finally the Youth desk to 157 Cardinals, Archbishops ecumenism, common witness, In addition, the Office of of Social Communication enables a local church to begin organized a meeting of anew when renewal has become Bishops on the “Eucharist and moribund, to retrace its steps when Communication.” a foundation block of renewal has The general shape of this been weakened or has become Plenary Assembly and its daily dormant, or to move forward in Name ______activities are due to the work the process of renewal as inspired (Family Name) (Given Name) (Middle Name) of the FABC Offices. In our and led by the Spirit of God. CBCPMonitor Plenary Assembly the Executive To live the Eucharist as our Secretaries will be at the service of present Assembly enjoins is a Mailing Address ______the Bishops to serve as facilitators peak moment in the continuum of SUBSCRIPTION RATES ______and reporters of the various renewal for the Church in Asia. It is workshops. a moment that we all strive to reach Phone No.: ______Fax No.: ______E-mail: ______and, when reached, it is a moment The CBCP Monitor is published fort- Mode of Payment Beyond Daejeon and Manila— to be perseveringly sustained. nightly by the CBCP Media Office, with   some suggestions towards a Sustaining that graced moment editorial and business offices at 470 Check/PMO enclosed Cash Payment renewed Church-in-mission towards a renewed Church-in- Gen. Luna St., Intramuros, Manila. PO (Payable to: CBCP Communications Development Foundation Inc.) In the light of what I have so mission can only be realized far presented, I hope that the through the grace that comes from Box 3601, 1076 MCPO following have become quite the Eucharistic Lord. • Domestic ______clearer: the vision of a renewed Renewing and sustaining the 1 Year Php 500.00 Signature Church in Asia; the primary Local Church for mission — that 2 Years Php 900.00 pastoral focus of building the is our dream and our prayer. • Foreign: Asia Local Church; the dimensions 1 Year US$ 55.00 of a continuum of renewal from +ORLANDO B. QUEVEDO, • All Other US$ 80.00 the 1st FABC Plenary Assembly O.M.I. PLEASE SEND TO: in 1974 to the present 9th Archbishop of Cotabato CBCP Monitor, P.O. Box 3601, Manila, Philippines Plenary Assembly; and the role Secretary General, FABC 470 Gen. Luna St., Intramuros, Manila, Philippines | Tel (632) 404-2182 • Telefax (632) 404-1612 of the FABC Offices in assisting 9th FABC Plenary Assembly Or e-mail this at [email protected] Episcopal conferences. Manila, August 11, 2009 CBCP Monitor B8 Vol. 13 No. 17 Entertainment August 17 - 30, 2009

Moral Assessment Technical Assessment

 Abhorrent  Poor  Disturbing  Below average  Acceptable  Average  Wholesome  Above average  Exemplary  Excellent

The world’s peace is threatened point of the film. But the rest of Title: G.I. Joe: Rise of Cobra by the corrupt weapon dealer technical aspects are good and Cast: Dennis Quaid, Chan- Destro (Christopher Eccleston) succeed in creating excitement ning Tatum, Sienna Miller, of Cobra organization and for young viewers. The chasing Marion Wayans therefore those in command scenes in Paris, the explosion Director: Stephen Sommers responsibility do not take it of Eiffel Tower, the deep of Producers: Lorenso Di Bo- naventura, Bob Ducsay, sitting down. Equipped with polar ice caps, and the wonders Brian Goldner high technology weapons, the of high technology system Screenwriter: Stuart Beattie elite G.I. Joe team is tasked to and weapons are amazing Music: Allan Silvestri face it off with the Cobra group ingredients of the film. Acting Editor: Bob Ducsay, Jim May to prevent their evil plan and wise, all the actors gave justice Genre: Action spare the innocent people. As to their respective roles as Cinematography: Mitchell in any high profile mission, a required. The director gave Amundsen battle with the equally high each character the necessary Distributor: Paramount Pictures technology-equipped group is highlights in the story. Overall, Location: Brussels not an easy task. In this case, G.I. Joe: Rise of Cobra is indeed Running Time: 118 min. any help extended to fulfill a good and entertaining film Technical Assessment: ½ the mission is necessary as that immortalizes a popular Moral Assessment:  offered by Ripcord (Marlon W) set of toys. CINEMA Rating: For viewers 14 and Duke (Channing Tatum) Any person who is entrusted and above particularly to find Baroness with a mission where precious (Sienna Miller). life and world peace are at stake of tasks. This is a challenge of G.I. Joe: Rise of Cobra is a must be responsible, whether as focus and priority. In a team spectacular film that is highly an individual or as a member environment, it is vital that complimented by special of a team. When your mission all members hold on to one effects and brilliant use of is on the side of the truth, evil another’s strength in order computer technology. Obvious forces expectedly get in the to overcome weaknesses and efforts were put in keeping way, so it is important to keep succeed in the team’s mission. up the story; however, too focus. Relationship in terms of The advances in technology much build-up of characters love and friendship are natural are a gift to human beings and somehow complicates the plot to humans and may be a factor should be used for human and becomes boring at some in fulfilling or non-fulfilling advancement. MAC en COLET Ni Bladimer Usi

Title: Book of Blood Cast: Jonas Armstrong, Paul Blair, Sophie Ward, Doug Brad- ley, Gowan Calder, Graham Colquhoun, James McAner- ney, Romana Abercromby, Simon Bamford Director: John Harrison Producers: Lauri Apelian, Clive Barker, Joe Daley, Micky McPherson, Jorge Sara- Buhay Parokya legui, Nigel Thomas Look for the images of 1. Cherubim Angels, Image of Virgin Mary and Holy Spirit. (Illustration by Bladimer Usi) Screenwrit- ers: Clive Barker, John Har- rison Music: Guy Farley Editor: Harry B. Miller III Genre: Thriller/ Horror Cinematogra- phy: Philip Robertson Distributor: RCV Film Distribution Location: Scot- land, UK Running Time: 105 min Technical As- sessment: ½ Moral Assessment: ½ CINEMA Rating: For mature viewers 18 and above

Book of Blood is an adaptation of Clive Barker’s two short stories, “On Jerusalem Street” and “Book of Blood.” In the film, a bounty assassin named Wyburd (Clive Russell) tracks down the very frightened and almost deformed young Simon McNeal (Jonas Armstrong), whose skin is filled with occult writings. Wyburd tells Simon that he has been hired to remove his skin but will give him a quick death if he tells him the story of the writings. We learn through flashbacks that Simon was a psychic who was tapped to help in the investigation of paranormal researcher and best-selling author, Mary Florescu (Sophie Ward). She has apparently discovered a haunted house in downtown Edinburgh where a young girl was skinned and killed by unseen spirits. Also, the house is said to be standing at the intersection of so- called “highways” transporting souls in the afterlife. Wanting to learn its mystery, she employs her student Simon, whose family tragedy seemingly made him sensitive to the occult. At first, Simon fakes his visions and orchestrates scenes to scare Mary. But later on, the dead communicate with Simon for real and start carving their messages on his flesh. Book of Blood starts off very promising and impressive. The first hour carries solid moments with a strong premise, great musical scoring, an eerie set and impressive CGIs. But in the middle, the film takes a nosedive with one lame scene after the other. The acting is dry and flat except for Clive Russel. By the time the story develops into something interesting, the audience are so far removed from the film that no amount of special effects or shock thrills will bring them back. The script is the major problem in the movie. It is too long and predictable with all the unnecessary prologues and epilogues. The premise of the film is good but direction is lethargic and predictable. Overall, the movie does not give justice to the book nor to the genre. Like most horror thrillers, the movie once again romanticizes death, afterlife and spirit … in the negative sense. For horror film producers, spirits are just another means of presenting blood, gore and violence on screen. The movie is visually appalling and morally disturbing. Not only does it bring a twisted concept of afterlife and spirits, but presents them is a very gruesome manner. Blood, sex and flesh are served to the brim. The horror does not come from the story but from the shock and disgust of seeing excessive and uncensored gore. Parents are strongly warned not to allow their young children to watch the movie or the DVD release. CBCP Monitor Vol. 13 No. 17 C1 August 17 - 30, 2009

The Cross A Supplement Publication of KCFAPI and the Order of the Knights of Columbus

Supreme Officers and KCFAPI Officers during the courtesy meeting held at the Desert Ridge Marriott Hotel in Phoenix, Arizona last August 3. KCFAPI meets Supreme Officers THE Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association of The KCFAPI Officers who were at the meeting were the follow- which compose ex officio the Founder Members Committee together ing: Chairman Patrocinio R. Bacay, President Antonio B. Borromeo, with the Archbishop of Manila, the CBCP President and the Jesuit the Philippines, Inc. (KCFAPI) organized a courtesy Treasurer Antonio T. Yulo, Corporate Secretary Alonso L. Tan, Board Provincial. meeting with some officers of the Supreme Council of Trustee Member Dionisio R. Esteban, Jr. , Executive Vice President For his part, Bacay reminded the Supreme Officers of some on the occasion of the 127th Supreme Convention Ma. Theresa G. Curia, and Chaplain Msgr. Pedro C. Quitorio. important issues earlier raised by KCFAPI during its meeting Borromeo informed the Supreme Officers about the history of with the Supreme Knight some five years ago. He appealed to held in Phoenix, Arizona, USA. KCFAPI and its present status as he distributed printed copies of his the Deputy Supreme Knight to give due discretion to said issues Held on August 3, 2009, at the Desert Ridge Marriott Hotel in 2008 report that registered a phenomenal success of the Association that may prove helpful not only to KCFAPI but largely to the Phoenix, Arizona, the meeting was attended by the following Su- that just celebrated its golden anniversary. Order in general. preme Officers: Deputy Supreme Knight Dennis A. Savoie, Supreme He pointed out that although the Supreme Council is not party According to Borromeo, the meeting which was very cordial was Treasurer John W. O’Reilly, Jr., Supreme Advocate John A. Marrella, to the organization and management of KCFAPI, it has a direct im- the first ever between the KCFAPI and the Supreme Officers. Supreme Director Alberto P. Solis, and Director for Philippines Af- pact on the Association in the sense that the said Supreme Council The meeting culminated with a lunch prepared by KCFAPI. fairs Eduardo Lacsi. appoints the three State Deputies and the Vice Supreme Master (KCFAPI News) KCFAPI passes surveillance audit

THE Knights of Co- Surveillance Auditor of Certification International for Financial Management and Accounting Services. lumbus Fraternal As- while KCFAPI President Antonio B. Borromeo led The surveillance audit is being conducted every sociation in the Philip- the officers of the Association. six months. Next year KCFAPI will have its reas- pines, Inc. (KCFAPI) The KCFAPI officers who participated in the audit sessment under the ISO 9001:2008 Standards. has recently passed include Executive Vice President, Ma. Theresa G. Meanwhile, Flores noted that the KCFAPI is the 5th surveillance Curia; Joseph P. Teodoro, Vice President of Fraternal the first Mutual Benefit Association which is ISO audit for ISO Certifica- Benefits Group; Mary Magdalene G. Flores, Vice Presi- 9001:2000 Certified in the Philippines. tion conducted by the dent for Finance and Quality Management Represen- She added that the Association is under the Certification Interna- tative; Joselito E. Mañalac, Assistant Vice President scope of Design, Development and Provision of tional. for Actuarial & Customer Relations Group; Ronulfo Mutual Benefits. The inspection was Antero G. Infante, Senior Manager for Management Certification International is a certifying body held last July 27, 2009 Information System; Pedro P. Lubenia, Senior Man- that is tasked to provide quality management at the KCFAPI main ager for Corporate Audit and Lead Auditor; Atty. systems assessment and to approve certification office in Intramuros, Rizal V. Katalbas, Jr., Manager for Legal Services; services to different organizations worldwide. Manila. Edwin B. Dawal, Manager for BC Holders’ Relations The ISO certification and continued surveillance The said surveil- Office; Carmelita S. Ruiz, Manager for Underwriting audit is KCFAPI’s way of assuring its Benefit Cer- KCFAPI President Antonio B. Borromeo and Officers pose with Ms. Sofia S. Mangahas of lance was headed by Services; Gari M. San Sebastian, Manager for Fraternal tificate Holders of the quality of service rendered Certification International during the closing meeting of the surveillance audit held at the KCFAPI main office in Intramuros, Manila last July 27. Ms. Sofia S. Mangahas, Benefits Services and Rowena M. Diapolit, Manager to them. (KCFAPI News) Philippine KC bags Supreme Awards KCFAPI receives

THE members of the Knights of Columbus from the TOKCA nominees three Philippine jurisdictions bagged prestigious ALMOST one month after the 2009 Search for awards during the 127th Supreme Convention held The Outstanding Knights of Columbus Awards in Phoenix, Arizona, USA, August 4-6, 2009. (TOKCA) was formally launched on July 2, 2009, Luzon and Mindanao were among the 10 juris- the Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association dictions given the distinction of having the most of the Philippine Inc. (KCFAPI) has 123 names of “VIP” (Very Important Proposers) Club members Brother Knights who are vying for the awards. with Luzon topping the list for having 8,707 new KCFAPI, the life insurance provider of the recruits for the current year, while Mindanao oc- Knights of Columbus and their immediate families cupying the 10th for getting 3,774 new recruits. Lu- is the sponsor of the TOKCA. zon Deputy Alonso L. Tan and Mindanao Deputy The award will recognize the outstanding Sofronio R. Cruz received the awards. achievements of members in their respective fields The Columbian Squires Award was given to of endeavor. Luzon for achieving the greatest gain in Squire The award is open to all Brother Knights in the membership recruitment with 2,617 new Squires following professions: government service; accoun- that brought a total of 11,352 at the end of the tancy and business; engineering, science and technol- fraternal year. Luzon Squires Chairman Jose ogy; academe; medical and health care services; law Cuaresma was present to receive the award with and judiciary; sports and entertainment; journalism the Luzon Deputy. and media; agriculture; youth and community devel- Visayas also earned the award for having the opment; arts and literature and entrepreneurship. highest net gain of 20 Columbian Squires circles The TOKCA will also serve as an inspiration to this year, the highest net gain in circles so far in all members to live up to the cardinal principles of the Order. Visayas Deputy Dionisio R. Esteban, Jr. , Unity, Fraternity and Patriotism. received the award. The nominees must be endorsed by their re- Together with 18 others, the three Philippine spective parish priests and Grand Knights. The jurisdictions earned the Supreme Knight’s New Luzon Deputy Alonso L. Tan, Visayas Deputy Dionisio R. Esteban, Jr., Mindanao Deputy Sofronio R. Cruz, Assistant State deadline for submission of nomination is on Sep- Council Development Award for new council Chaplain Msgr. Pedro Quitorio, State Advocate Justice Jose C. Reyes, Jr., State Ways and Means Chairman Miguel Yu, State tember 15, 2009. development and reactivation with Mindanao Squires Chairman Jose Cuaresma and other members of the Knights of Columbus from the three Philippine jurisdictions and their ladies during the recently held 127th Supreme Convention in Phoenix, Arizona, USA. The winners will be awarded their plaque of rec- gaining 100%, Luzon 105% and Visayas 360%. ognition during the State Dinner of the KC National Order-wide, there were only six councils that (185%) in the Supreme Knight’s Circle of Honor City in Cebu tied with Pope John Paul II Council Convention to be held in April 2010 at the Water- garnered the Century Club Award which is given Award. Visayas (130%) and Mindanao (122%) also 14023 in Starachowice, Poland for the first place front Lahug, Cebu City. (Joseph P. Teodoro) to councils that add 100 members over suspensions got the award on the lower percentile category. in the Youth Activities Award. Visayas Deputy and withdrawals. Three of the six councils came from This prestigious distinction is awarded to State Esteban, his lady Fe and Grand Knight Fabian C. awards and warmly congratulated all the awardees. the Philippines, namely: Council 4074 of Guimba, Deputies who have achieved 100 percent or more Regis proudly ascended the rostrum to claim the He was assisted by Deputy Supreme Knight Dennis Nueva Ecija, Luzon with 107 members; Council 1000 of their net gain quota for the fraternal year. award. A. Savoie and Patrick S. Korten, Vice President for of Manila with 108 members; and Council 7813 of The Mandaue Fatima Council 7101 in Mandaue Supreme Knight Carl Anderson bestowed the Communications. (KCFAPI News) Allacapan, Cagayan, Luzon with 231 members. The other three awardees of this category came from , Texas and New Jersey. Of the five jurisdictions with the highest number FBG Manager heads meeting of St. Michael Council of Star Council winners as of June 30, 2009, Luzon THE Manager of the Fraternal Ben- He also discussed the various in- KC Councils of the three jurisdic- ing for the said awards to date. occupied the highest position: Luzon, 120; Texas, efits Group (FBG), Gari San Sebas- centive programs of the association tions namely: Luzon, Visayas, and San Sebastian said that there was 96; Michigan, 72; Florida, 57; and California, 52. tian, has facilitated the meeting of and the two new contests of the KC Mindanao. a total of 37 officers and members The Star Council Award is the highest distinction the St. Michael council in Bulacan, association namely: Most Outstand- Council should have a good stand- of the council who attended the any council can achieve. held August 2, 2009. ing District Deputy (MODD) and the ing with their territorial jurisdic- said meeting. The three Philippine Jurisdictions have also San Sebastian tackled on the Council of Honors Awards. tions and must have active serving Efren Casupan, Area Manager dominated the Star District Awards with the products being offered by the as- MODD is designed for District fraternal counselors to qualify for of the Central Luzon Believers and highest number of Star District winners: Luzon, sociation which are the Gold Series Deputies appointed in the Colum- the awards. the Round Table of District Depu- 131; Visayas, 72; Mindanao, 71; Texas, 24; and Plan (KC C.A.R.E.S.), KC Capital bian Year 2009-2010 that has imple- He also gave an update on the ties Chairman, and Ariston Fran- California, 19. This award is given to district depu- Accumulator Plan, KC Assurance mented an insurance coverage of at recently launched Ten Outstanding cisco, Fraternal Counselor and Past ties attaining 100 percent or more of their district’s Plan, KC Retire Plus Plan, En- least P100,000. Knights of Columbus Awards (TOK- Grand Knight of the San Ildefonso membership. hanced College Savings Plan and Council of Honors Awards, on CA) which already has 123 submitted Council, have also participated in Luzon (181%) was in the top rank category with Super Saver Plan. the other hand, is intended for the names of Brother Knights who are vy- the said meeting. (CBCPNews) Mexico South (228%) and Dominican Republic CBCP Monitor C2 Vol. 13 No. 17 The Cross August 17 - 30, 2009 Chairman’s President’s Message Antonio B. Borromeo Message WE have just Paranaque. Most of us have attended this yearly conven- attended the tion in the past and as always, it is heartwarming to meet 127th Supreme other brother Knights and their families from the USA, Convention at Canada, Central and South America. The Deputy Supreme Patrocinio R. Bacay Phoenix, Ari- Knight Dennis Savoie tendered a private luncheon with us zona. It was together with SK Eduardo G. Lacsi, the Director for Philip- AS we represent KCFAPI here in Phoenix, Arizona for the Order’s 127th Supreme held at the JW pine Affairs and SK Alberto P. Solis, Supreme Director. Convention, we feel a sense of bonding among Knights worldwide. As we celebrate the Marriott Desert After the Supreme Convention, we attended the first feast of St. John Vianney, Patron Saint of Priests, it is but fitting that the theme of the Ridge Resort and Spa. As it is the first time the conven- International Marian Congress of our Lady of Guada- convention is: “We stand with Peter in Solidarity with our Bishops and Priests.” We tion was held in Phoenix, the host KC State welcomed us lupe. The congress, which preceded a family-friendly are once again reminded of our commitment to support our Holy Father and all that he with their warm hospitality. Joining us are the Chairman Guadalupe Festival at Jobing.com Arena on August 8, stands for. With the various difficulties we face today, we need the constant guidance Patrocinio R. Bacay, Treasurer Antonio T. Yulo, the 3 Ter- featured talks by experts from the United States and of the Lord Jesus Christ through Pope Benedict XVI and all the anointed Bishops and ritorial Deputies: SK Alonso L. Tan, SK Dionisio R. Esteban, Latin America on . priests who represent our Holy Father. Jr., SK Sofronio R. Cruz and the Executive Vice President As the Knights of Columbus, is always in forefront of This message has been echoed again and again in the homilies of the many masses we Ma. Theresa G. Curia. Our Spiritual Director, Msgr. Pedro many different initiatives, this year’s convention calls attended during the convention. We feel one with our Brother Knights and their families C. Quitorio III was also present with four other members for all its members worldwide to defend the right to life as we celebrate life as a member of the Knights of Columbus Order. We shall continue of the clergy: Most Rev. Romulo T. dela Cruz, Bishop of and to protect marriage. And so, being the only Catholic to support each other in prayer and in constantly living the principles of charity, unity, Kidapawan, Most Rev. Angel N. Lagdameo, Archbishop of nation in the world, we enjoin all members of the order fraternity and patriotism. Jaro, Most Rev. Julito B. Cortes, Auxiliary Bishop of Cebu in the Philippines, to be vigilant and serve as catalysts Vivat Iesus! and Most Rev. Jesse E. Mercado, Bishop of the Diocese of for religious and social transformation. KC Fraternal Davao – In Edwin B. Dawal Service Through Times BC Holders’ Relations Office Manager DAVAO’S name was probably derived from the Bagobo word MR. Dawal or Mr. D, a CPA, started as Accounting Clerk for the the Knights of Columbus be- "Daba-daba" which means "fire". This place was referred to as a re- General Account Section of the Knights of Columbus Fraternal As- ing a Former District Deputy gion of flames or fire by the early Jesuit priests as recorded in their sociation of the Philippines, Inc. (KCFAPI) on January 16, 1983 and of M-47 and a Past Grand early books. Many natives, however, believe that the name Davao was promoted to General Account Supervisor on the same year. Knight of KC Manila Council was derived from the great river which the early Tagabawa tribe Though he seemed quiet and shy, this local from Albay proved his 1000. His other achievements referred to as Dabu. worth, and became Assistant Accounting Manager in 1987. On the include being Professional – However, no matter where it got its name, it is but proper for all same year, he became a full-fledged Accounting Manager. In 2003, Customer Service and Fellow, Davaoeños, be they natives or migrants, to be proud of Davao City, he became Manager – Financial Accounting and FC’s Accounts De- Life Management Institute of Life Office Management Association being one of the fastest growing cities and highly urbanized city in partment which is now called Financial Management and Account- (LOMA). Mr. D also finished Pastoral Biblical Studies and Certificate the Philippines. It is recognized as the most competitive Metro City ing Services Department. At present, Mr. Dawal is the BC Holders’ in Theological Studies from the Divine Word School of Theology (2001, 2003 and 2005 by Asian Institute of Management), Most Liv- Relations Office Manager. in Tagaytay. able City (1996-1999 by Asiaweek) and the Cleanest and Greenest Aside from his responsibilities in KCFAPI, Mr. Dawal also serves Mr. Dawal is married to Teresa and they are blessed with three City (Highly Urbanized Category, 1999-2005) in the Philippines. It as Administrative Officer of the KC Philippines Foundations and Fr. children: Mariclare, Fatima Joy and John David. (Rowena M. Di- is also considered as one of the largest cities in the whole world in Willmann Charities since 2003. He is also very active in the Order of apolit) terms of land area with total land area of 2,443.61 square kilometers. There are vividly good reasons why Davao is known by many titles and monikers, like Orchid Capital of the Philippines, Fruit Basket of the Philippines- the City of Durian, Home of the Great Bird of Asia, and many more. KC Foundation scholars pass The Service Office of Davao was estab- lished in the year 1986, during one of 2009 Nursing Board Exams the dramatic and tu- FOUR foundation scholars recently passed the 2009 Nursing Li- lege in Cagayan de Oro City. She is the daughter of the late Bro. multuous period of censure Examination conducted last June by the Board of Nursing Wilmer Maiso and Sis. Resureccion Maiso of Claveria, Misamis our country’s histo- in key cities nationwide. They are Ms. Michelle O. Alferez (Rev. Oriental. ry. That was the time Fr. Urbano L. Kintanar Council 3940 Naga, Cebu), Ms. Merjean G. On the other hand, Ms. Macanas and Mr. Simon completed their when a once humble Maiso (Rev. Fr. Bonifacio Garcia Council 10487 Claveria, Misamis undergraduate degrees at Far Eastern University and were benefi- housewife rose to Oriental), Ms. Ellien Grace E. Macanas (Sta. Lucia Council 9366 Sta. ciaries of the Supreme Council Scholarship Program from school the top government Lucia, Novaliches, Quezon City) and Mr. Christian Janus C. Simon year 2005-2009. Ms. Macanas is the daughter of Bro. Danilo and Sis. position of our coun- (Ilagan Council 3705 Ilagan, Isabela). Angelie Macanas of Novaliches, Quezon City, while Mr. Simon is try to restore order Ms. Alferez and Ms. Maiso were scholars of the KC Philippines the son of Bro. Marcelo and Sis. Ma. Soledad Simon of Ilagan, Isa- and democracy. The Foundation, Inc. from school year 2005-2009. Ms. Alferez was a bela. The Supreme Council Scholarship Program is being funded by symbol of peace and graduate of Cebu City Medical Center College of Nursing and the Knights of Columbus Supreme Council Office in Connecticut, change, considered daughter to Bro. Hilarion and Sis. Soccoro Alferez of Naga, Cebu U.S.A. and administered locally by KC Philippines Foundation, Inc. as our dear mother while Ms. Maiso obtained her Nursing degree at Lourdes Col- (Denise C. Solina) of country’s democ- racy, forever adored President Cory C. Aquino. Just like her For Brother Knights by Brother Knights who served the Fili- pino people whole- heartedly, the Davao Fraternal Benefits Associate Adrian B. Boston, Service Service Office also Office Staff Mary Jane O. Mendoza and Rogelio S. Affordable Life Insurance Plan aims to earnestly Cabanlit of KC Fraternal Davao Service Office. IF at the moment there is a greater need for benefit certificate. (minus all indebtedness the 15 payment life plan also has the follow- serve our KC brother Knights in the vast regions of Southern Phil- family financial security than accumulating plus accumulated dividends) ing features. ippines. We cater and serve the provinces of Davao del Norte, Davao funds for retirement or a special project, To illustrate the 15 payment plan, see 1. Guaranteed non-forfeiture option (Cash del Sur, Compostela Valley, Sarangani Province, , KCFAPI suggests that one consider its 15 table below. Value, Reduced Paid Up & Extended Term Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao and North Cotabato and its compo- Payment Life Plan. Like other plans being offered by KCFAPI, Insurance) nent cities. The Davao Service office is strategically located in K of C Under this plan, 2. Annual Dividends Bldg at Claro M. Recto St. just a stone throw away from San Pedro the insured is covered 3. Added Value Pro- Cathedral where Davao Council 3289, one of the founding members throughout his lifetime tection of KCFAPI is located. but will only have to Since its establishment more than two decades ago, the Davao pay for 15 years. In the The minimum face val- Service Office through its personnel, continues to provide optimum event of the insured’s ue available is P100,000.00. service and fraternal benefits to our brother Knights and their imme- death while the policy Please contact us or your diate families and likewise constantly renders support to the Order. is in force, KCFAPI will nearest fraternal coun- Just recently, the conference room was expanded to accommodate deliver the amount of selor for further details. various meetings and conferences of KCFAPI and of the Mindanao insurance stated in the (Joseph Teodoro) Jurisdiction. The Davao Service Office is presently manned by Fraternal Benefits Associate Adrian B. Boston, with competent SO Staff, Mary Jane O. Mendoza and Rogelio S. Cabanlit. These Service Office personnel are KCFAPI hosts meeting of CHAMBAI closely working hand in hand with our Fraternal Counselors from Eastern Mindanao, Central Mindanao and North Central Mindanao. THE Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association of the Philippines, Meanwhile, Atty. Rizal V. Katalbas, Jr., CHAMBAI Vice President Along with their hardworking Area Managers/Team Leaders, Bro. Inc. (KCFAPI) hosted the meeting of the Chamber of Mutual Benefit represented KCFAPI. Fidel L. Blantucas, Bro. Lorenzo D. Labrador Jr. and Bro. Nonato Associations, Inc. (CHAMBAI) at KCFAPI office in Intramuros, Mr. George Tan, Deputy Director of Information Management M. Acupan respectively, in order to carry on the aspirations of Manila to discuss among the members certain issues regarding the and Analysis Group of the Anti-Money Laundering Council the founder of the Knights of Columbus, Fr. Michael J. McGivney Anti-Money Laundering Act. (AMLC), tackled on matters about the submission of Suspicious through KCFAPI. The meeting initiated by CHAMBAI president Ms. Carmen Ro- Transaction Report (STR) and Covered Transaction Report (CTR) Davao Service Office lives up to the monikers of the area it covers. driguez was held on July 28. to the AMLC as required under the Anti-Money Laundering Act Like the Explorers from North Central Mindanao, we will continue to Representatives from different Mutual Benefit Associations of 2001 (AMLA Law). explore new ways to raise our standards of performance and improve (MBAs) including representatives from the Insurance Commis- He explained the rationale behind the submission of said reportorial our quality of service; a Central Mindanao Cowboy, always driven sion and Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC), Ms. Precy requirements under AMLA, the duties and responsibilities of Mutual to provide security to his herds; and like Eastern Mindanao and Manlutac and Mr. George Tan, respectively participated in the Benefit Associations (MBAs) prescribed under the IC Circulars as well as Davao’s symbol and icon, the Philippine Eagle; we at KCFAPI will meeting. the corresponding administrative penalty imposed for covered entities soar to new heights of growth and stability in the years to come. who shall fail to com- Come visit us at Davao Service Office, Come experience Davao! ply with the regula- Celebrate August! Ug mag indak-indak ta sa kadalanan karong Ka- tory requirements, dayawan sa Dabaw 2009! (Sources: Davao Historic Society, DCIPC among others. Philippine Information Agency – Region XI, www.davaocity.gov. Also discussed ph and www.traveler.com) (Adrian B. Boston) during the meeting was the draft of the Regulatory Frame- KC Foundation Announcement work for Micro-in- surance prepared by We are calling the attention of all former Knights the Department of of Columbus Philippines Foundation scholars or Finance/IC-Techni- anybody who may have information about them. cal Working Group The Foundation is planning to hold a gathering (TWG). At the moment, of all collegiate scholars next year and we need the said framework your help to realize this. Please update us of your is being presented current status, residence address and contact for regional consul- details through these numbers: 0929-7012789; tation with industry 0915-2711600; 0917-8255632 or 527-2223 local players around the 230. You may also email us at kc.foundations@ country in prepara- tion for its imple- yahoo.com or [email protected] or visit mentation by the our office at KC Fr. George J. Willmann Center, Insurance Commis- CHAMBAI President, Ms. Carmen Rodriguez (seated 3rd from left), together with Ms. Precy Manlutac of the Insurance Commission (seated, General Luna corner Sta. Potenciana Sts., Intra- extreme left) and Mr. George Tan of Anti-Money Laundering Council (seated 3rd from right) together with representatives of various Mutual sion. (Atty. Rizal V. muros, Manila. Katalbas, Jr.) Benefit Associations during their meeting held on July 28, 2009 at the KCFAPI office in Intramuros, Manila. LAURENCE JOHN R. MORALES BY LAYOUT CBCP Monitor Vol. 13 No. 17 C3 August 17 - 30, 2009 The Cross True Charity The pope’s new encyclical illuminates the great commandments of love By Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson

POPE Benedict XVI’s recent encyclical, Caritas in Veritate document, as support for their policy preferences or po- (Charity in Truth), should serve as a reminder of the im- litical philosophy. But to do that would miss the point. portance of the first principle of our Order. As the document itself states: “The Church does not have In his introduction to the encyclical, the pope writes, technical solutions to offer and does not claim ‘to interfere “Charity is at the heart of the Church’s social doctrine.” He in any way in the politics of States.’ She does, however, then makes clear that our charity must be true charity. have a mission of truth to accomplish” (9). “Without truth,” he says, “charity degenerates into senti- The question is not whether this encyclical validates our mentality.” On the other hand, “practicing charity in truth viewpoint, but rather how it can help us to grow in our helps people to understand that adhering to the values of faith as children of God and members of the human family. Christianity is not merely useful but essential for building All human beings, including the unborn, are part of that a good society and for true integral development.” family. The pope made this perfectly clear in his encycli- We might look at this in light of the Lord’s Prayer. Pope cal: “Openness to life is at the center of true development. Benedict quotes the first two words of that prayer — “Our When a society moves towards the denial or suppression Father” — at the end of his encyclical. If we take those two of life, it ends up no longer finding the necessary motiva- words seriously, we must realize the truth that all of us tion and energy to strive for man’s true good. If personal are members of one family. and social sensitivity towards the acceptance of a new life From this perspective, it is easier for us to see how the is lost, then other forms of acceptance that are valuable for law and prophets are summarized in Christ’s two great society also wither away” (28, emphasis in original). commandments — that we love God totally and love our Additionally, the Holy Father points out that religious neighbors as ourselves (see Mt 22:37-40). Thus, we are able liberty is a key component to development. He wrote, to speak of “caritas in veritate.” “The Christian religion and other religions can offer their When we understand that we are all members of the contribution to development only if God has a place in the same human family and accept these two commandments, public realm, specifically in regard to its cultural, social, we can no longer ask Cain’s question: “Am I my brother’s keeper?” (Gen 4:9). Instead, we must realize economic, and particularly its political dimensions” (56, emphasis in original). that our freedom cannot take the form of simply amassing as much wealth as we can. Instead, the actions In this issue of Columbia, we explore the contribution of the Catholic Church in the areas of health we take should reflect the reality of our familial connection to our neighbor, and we should take stock care, social service, education and religious freedom. The success of each of these ventures has been a of how everything we do affects others. In fact, to be a Christian is to be a man or woman for others. result of the commitment by individual Catholics to charity in truth. This is the beautiful message of the encyclical. Let us honor their legacy, and the pope’s call, by renewing our commitment to true charity. Sadly, not everyone will focus on this message. Some will try to view the encyclical as a political Vivat Iesus! KC Foundation announces new KC SK Alonso L. Tan, president of KC Fr. George J. Willmann Charities, Inc. recently announced the new priest-scholars of the Father Michael J. McGivney Fund for Advanced Studies in Rome. This year’s slots were open for Luzon and Mindanao Chaplains Priest-scholars in Rome of the Knights of Columbus. The chosen scholars were Rev. Fr. Jeffrey D. Habado from Luzon and Rev. Fr. Reynaldo B. Mission from Mindanao. Rev. Fr. Jeffrey D. Habado is from the Diocese of Baguio and is the Assistant Chaplain of KC Council 12568 La Trinidad, Benguet. Fr. Habado has been a scholar of the Foundation during his The- ology years at the Immaculate Conception School of Theology in Vigan City where he graduated Cum Laude in 2004. He just ended his three-year assignment as Spiritual Director of San Pablo Major Seminary in Baguio City. He will take up Licentiate in Philosophy

Rev. Fr. Jeffrey D. Habado Rev. Fr. Reynaldo B. Mission at the Gregorian University. On the other hand, Rev. Fr. Reynaldo B. Mission is from the Dio- cese of Marbel. He was recommended by KC Council 4576 Koronadal City where he served as Council Chaplain. He finished his Theol- ogy at Saint Francis Xavier Regional Major Seminary of Mindanao and took up his Licentiate in Canon Law at the University of Santo Tomas where he graduated Cum Laude in 2007. Fr. Mission was as- signed as Chancellor and Episcopal Vicar of his Diocese prior to his departure for Rome. He will pursue his Doctoral Studies in Canon Law at Angelicum University. Fr. Habado and Fr. Mission will reside at the Pontificio Collegio Filippino during their stay in Rome. The Father Michael J. McGivney Most Rev. Guillermo D. Afable, DD, Bishop of Digos (center), during the blessing of the new John Paul II Seminary in Digos City last August 4, 2009. The seminary Fund for Advanced Studies in Rome is a 2-year scholarship program is dedicated to John Paul II and in grateful memory of Most Reverend Generoso C. Camiña ,PME,DD, the first Bishop of Digos who initiated the being funded by the Knights of Columbus Supreme Council in New seminary project. KCFAPI donated P100,000.00 to help build the John Paul II Seminary. Joining Bishop Afable in this photo are: Davao FB Associate and Region 11 Insurance Promotion Chairman, Adrian B. Boston, Eastern Mindanao Area Manager and Mindanao State Insurance Promotion Chairman, Fidel B. Blantucas, Haven Connecticut, U.S.A. and administered locally by the KC Fr. and Mindanao State Secretary Hernando J. Jordan together with the active Brother Knights in the Diocese of Digos. Mindanao State Membership Director and a Willmann Charities, Inc. (Denise C. Solina) member of KCFAPI Board of Trustees, Jose D. Bacalanmo, Jr. (not in photo) also came to witness the momentous event. Knights express sorrow on Cory’s passing away THE Knights of Columbus Luzon Jurisdiction expressed sympathy on the death of the First Woman President of the Philippines, Cora- zon Aquino last August 1, 2009 at 3:18 a.m. due to cardio-respiratory arrest. “The Knights of Columbus-Luzon Jurisdiction expresses its deep regrets on the death of former President Corazon “Cory” C. Aquino. The Officers and members of the jurisdiction pray for the eternal repose of her soul and extend their heartfelt condolences and sympathy to the bereaved family of the former president,” Arsenio Isidro Yap, State Secretary, stated. He added that the jurisdiction has invited its members and their families all over Luzon to offer prayers and masses during the month of August for the former President in recognition of her hard work to restore democracy in the country. “The Luzon Jurisdiction calls on all its 119,000 members and their families all-over Luzon in 218 Districts with 1054 Councils to offer prayers and masses for the late president for the whole month of August, out of love, respect and recognition for her superhuman effort to have democracy restored in our country,” Yap affirmed. Yap also acknowledged his gratefulness to God for having given the Philippines an exemplary leader. “We are thankful to God for the gift of a “Cory”, who had pulled us together in unity, in democracy, in the freedom we now enjoy through her bloodless coup, the now famous and internationally recognized phenomenon “The People Power Revolution.” “To you, Tita Cory, wherever you are, you will always be in the heart of every member of the Knights of Columbus as you epitomize what freedom loving Filipinos yearn for – Democracy. We pray that you will now be with your loving husband free from the aches and pains your mortal body had to endure. Rest now, our country’s Tita and enjoy God’s reward to you, an eternal peace in heaven.” Meanwhile, the Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association of the Philippines, Inc. (KCFAPI) has also expressed its mourning over Cory Aquino’s demise. “KCFAPI joins the whole nation in mourning the passing of President Corazon C. Aquino, world icon of democracy and the inspiration for all Filipinos who stand for freedom, responsible leadership and good governance,” said Joseph Teodoro, Officer-in- charge of KCFAPI. He also said that the Association will always remember “her ex- emplary meaningful life, her love for God and service to our country and people.” (Kate Laceda) CBCP Monitor C4 Vol. 13 No. 17 The Cross August 17 - 30, 2009 Knights build first ever Fr. Willmann chapel in GK Village FOR several years, many have looked to the consider it worship and love for other people. Gawad Kalinga project in Tungkong Mangga vil- “We hope that the residents will make use of the lage to help piece together their lives. chapel to draw strength from God as they face the But now, the people there will soon have greater difficult challenges of life,” he earlier said. access to spiritual direction and healing with the The volunteers are mostly employees of the KC addition of a chapel on the village’s premises. Fraternal and its subsidiaries. A set of about 35 Last July 25, a crew of volunteers went on a mis- volunteers are working on the project every other sion at the GK village. Saturday. Their goal is to build the chapel that will be Residents of the GK village, meanwhile, are named after Fr. George J Willmann, KCFAPI grateful for “the blessing” the Knights of Colum- founder, and will be dedicated in honor and pa- bus has provided for them. tronage of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. Aside from free houses, Arcille De Marcadel The volunteers began the construction last July said having a new chapel will definitely boost 11 and they expect to have its completion by Oct. the faith and relationships of the people in the 17, the first anniversary of the 10 houses earlier community. built by KC Fraternal. “The chapel will surely unite us more. May God The new 60 square meter facility is being con- Bless the Knights of Columbus,” Marcadel said. structed at the heart of the village in San Jose Del In 2008, the KCFAPI built ten houses at said Monte, Bulacan. GK site. The ten beneficiary-families came from KC Philippines Foundation chair and Justice Jose Pangarap village in Kalookan City who were C. Reyes, Jr., said it’s nice to see people working selected by the GK Community Foundation, Inc. together for a common purpose and goal as they (Roy Lagarde) KCFAPI employees during the Gawad Kalinga project last July 25 at GK Village in Tungkong Mangga. KCFAPI hosts meeting of Eastern and Central Visayas Area Managers THE Knights of Columbus Fra- and the needed improvements in Bro. Teodoro, on the other hand, ternal Association of the Philip- the performance of the group to discussed the economic opportu- pines, Inc. (KCFAPI) hosted a increase their sales production. nities of the insurance industries, KC Foundation names recipients meeting for the Area Managers He also discussed on the product sales techniques and the sales fore- and Team Leaders from Eastern positioning and the recruitment cast for the second semester. & Central Visayas last August 8, targets and trainings of the fra- Area Managers who attended 2009 at the Cebu Service Office ternal counselors. were Bro. Eldito Nabong of the of Collegiate Scholarship Program in Lahug City. The promotional activities such Eastern Visayas Fighters and KNIGHTS of Columbus Philippines Foundation say, Misamis Oriental) Joseph P. Teodoro, Vice-Pres- as the fraternal counselors’ incen- Bro. Ireneo Guadalquiver of the President, SK Alonso L. Tan, recently announced ident of the Fraternal Benefits tives and the recognition pro- Central Visayas Boomers. the 23 new beneficiaries of the scholarship pro- While the selected Supreme Council scholars Group and Gari San Sebastian, grams such as the The Outstand- The Team Leaders from Cebu: gram of the KC Philippines Foundation and the who will be receiving $250.00 financial assistance Manager of the Fraternal Benefits ing Knights of Columbus Awards Bros. Angelito Lugod, Knights of Columbus Supreme Council. This per semester are: Services, presided the meeting. (TOKCA), Council of Honors, and Flordelis and Dennis Cańares and brings to 73, the current number of less fortunate San Sebastian tackled on the the Most Outstanding District the Fraternal Benefits Associate, but deserving scholars of the foundation for the Luzon first semester sales performance Deputy were also presented to the Ms. Allen Bohol also participated school year 2009-2010. 1. Dean Martin M. Garcia (Council 10582 in Cebu as well as the analysis KC officials of Cebu. in the meeting. (Kate Laceda) Named KC Foundation scholars who will receive Calumpit, Bulacan) P15,000.00 financial assistance per semester are: 2. Gerald Martinez (Council 14257 Rosario, Batangas) Luzon 3. Wally O. Villaflor (Circle 5034 Dasmariñas, KC Luzon Officers make 1. Esmerando R. Escoto (Circle 4943 San Barto- Cavite) lome, Quezon City) 2. Jennica Ann Mae D. Avellanosa (Council 8754 Visayas San Rafael, Bulacan) 1. Bernice Marsha F. Reyes (Council 14244 Tal- courtesy call to prelates 3. Maria Regina O. Trasmañas (Council 13538, isay City) Bucandala, Imus, Cavite) 2. Jussel Basanta (Council 8541 Calatrava, Negros 4. Ivan V. Parayno (Circle 4206 Maysilo, Mala- Occidental) bon City) 3. Jimwell Villanueva (Circle 05110 Dumanjug, 5. Eymard D. Siojo (Council 9118 Novaliches, Cebu) Quezon City) 4. Nikka Flor P. Pedrosa (Council 13493 Palo, 6. Nikki Ann M. De Mesa (Council 13030 Bugal- Leyte) lon, Pangasinan) 7. Ruth Arlin C. Gomez (Council 8537 Alicia, Mindanao Isabela) 1. Jessa Mae P. Virtudazo (Council 13409 Polo- molok, South Cotabato) Visayas 2. Sol George A. Sombilon (Council 12550 1. Adrian Andrew B. Banzon (Council 3171 City) Tacloban City) 3. Christian S. Maybuena (Council 5907 Cagayan 2. Salvador D. Alba II (Council 12324 Panitan, de Oro City) Capiz) 4. John Mark Anthony Jaraula (Council 5465 Don Carlos, Bukidnon) Mindanao 1. Jellian Paula L. Nacalaban (Council 12550 The Knights of Columbus Philippines Founda- Iligan City) tion, which was organized in 1971 by Fr. George 2. Ma. Janine M. Quiambao (Council 3504 Co- J. Willmann, S.J. and funded by KC Fraternal, has tabato City) already graduated 357 scholars throughout the KC Luzon Officers with His Honesto F. Ongtioco, Bishop of the Diocese of Cubao at the Bishop’s Residence at 3. Tennessee C. Lloren (Council 12978 Magsay- country. (Denise C. Solina) Lantana, Cubao, Quezon City during their courtesy call last July 28. THE State Officers of the Knights of Co- bao last July 28 at the Bishop’s Residence the Cardinal the participation of knights reason or another. his birthday. lumbus Luzon Jurisdiction led by Luzon at Lantana, Cubao, Quezon City. in the last June 12 Independence Day Afterwards, pictures were taken with A few days later, on July 28 to be ex- Deputy Alonso L. Tan made a courtesy Among the main topics of discussion Celebration at Kawit, Cavite. The close the Cardinal who surprised the state act, the State Officers again led by Luzon call to two prelates close to the jurisdic- with Cardinal Rosales was the Luzon to 900 strong delegations of knights officers by wearing his KC barong. Lu- Deputy Alonso L. Tan made a cour- tion. They met with His Eminence Gaud- Policy on redistricting by aligning the from Laguna, Batangas, Quezon and of zon Deputy Alonso L. Tan extended an tesy call to Bishop Ongtioco, the State encio B. Cardinal Rosales, Archbishop of composition of the council with that of course Cavite made a very good impres- invitation for His Eminence to join the Chaplain of the jurisdiction. The good Manila last July 25, 2009 at his residence the Vicariate, this way the councils in a sion in the area. The state officers also delegation of knights who will attend bishop expressed his disappointment on at the Arzobispado de Manila in Intra- district would be able to move in unison reiterated to the good Cardinal their next year’s Supreme Council Conven- his failure to join the Supreme Council muros and with His Excellency Honesto with the programs of the diocese in the plan to organize councils even in areas tion to which he responded without any convention due to some conflicts. F. Ongtioco, Bishop of the Diocese of Cu- vicariate level. It was also reported to where it is thought impossible for one certainty as it always fall within days of Bishop Ongtioco was thankful to the knights for KCFAPI’s contribution to the funds of CBCP of more than seven hundred thousand pesos. This was the first proceed of the 10 million peso Trust Fund called the “Seed of Hope” established for CBCP. Bishop Ongtioco also aired his con- cerns for the flight of Catechists not only in Cubao but also in other areas where their services is badly needed. The catechists is a vanishing breed more so the volunteer catechists. He wished that somehow the professionals and mem- bers of organizations like the Knights of Columbus would be able to take some time and be a volunteer catechist to help the regular catechists in their assign- ments in public schools where religion is not a regular subject. The state officers also had several pictures taken with the bishop and our Luzon Deputy also extended his invita- tion to Bishop Ongtioco to once again attend the Supreme Council Convention next year. The Knights of Columbus Christ the King Council 12342 newly-elected Grand Knight, Basil B. Occeno led the new set of Council Officers for Columbian Year 2009-2010. This photo was taken during the Installation rites The two courtesy calls with the two given by District Deputy Pepito G. Paradero and District Warden Deomedes L. German last August 8, 2009 top leaders of the church in Luzon at the Christ the King Parish in GSIS Holiday Hills Village, San Pedro, Laguna. Other installed officials of the showed that the church and the jurisdic- Christ the King Council are Alfredo M. Bacani, Jr. (Deputy Grand Knight); Mario U. Arevalo (Chancellor); Renato tion are one in saying that they need to R. Orijuela (Financial Secretary); Quinciano I. Reynon (Treasurer); Bernie G. Rodrigo (Advocate); Ramon C. Mella (Recorder); Priscillo A. Pablo (Warden); Raymundo M. Alkuino (Lecturer); Carmelo J. Crelencia (Inside cooperate with one another on matters Guard); Servando A. Alvano (Outside Guard); and three Trustees namely, Reynaldo O. Curabo (1st year); Pedro not only about faith but also on other M. Magsino (2nd year); Roberto S. Calugtong (3rd year). The affair started with a Eucharistic Celebration matters concerning social problems in presided by Rev. Fr. Venancio E. Silva, Parish Priest and Council Chaplain. KC Honor Guards were provided their own respective ways. (SK Arsenio by the Sampaguita Assembly led by its Faithful Navigator SK Angel Macaranas. Isidro G. Yap)