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MARCH 30 - APRIL 12, 2020, VOL 24, NO. 7 [email protected]

Pope Francis holds the monstrance as he delivers his extraordinary blessing “urbi et orbi” (to the city and the world) during a prayer service in the portico of St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican March 27, 2020. The service was livestreamed in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic. CNS/VATICAN MEDIA Church focuses on poor during Covid-19 lockdown By Roy Lagarde have been devastating for the poor even as they struggle with a potential The Catholic Church Covid-19 health crisis. “There are many brothers and is doing what it can to sisters of ours who are affected provide relief for millions financially by the long quarantine,” of poor Filipinos affected said Archbishop Romulo Valles, the by the lockdown placed president of the bishops’ conference. by the government to Various parishes, religious stop the spread of the congregations and church organizations have been doing coronavirus. their bit to make sure the poor will President Rodrigo Duterte on not go hungry. March 16 asked for understanding Many of them have also stepped in as he placed the entire Luzon region to help and feed the frontliners who under a month-long lockdown, are working tirelessly to contain the but said “stricter measures are Covid-19. necessary”. In Metro Manila, several Catholic As the number of positive tests schools and parishes opened their continue to rise everyday, more doors as temporary shelters for the local governments across the homeless and medical frontliners in country also enhanced quarantine the battle against the disease. measures. “There are now more parishes Health officials have confirmed and religious houses opening their about 2,311 cases of coronavirus facilities,” said Bishop Broderick as of April 1, including at least 96 Pabillo, the apostolic administrator deaths. of Manila. The San Isidro Labrador Parish in Bagong Silangan, Quezon City sets up a “drive thru” system as a way of distributing food to the needy while observing The lockdowns, the Church said, Poor / A6 “social distancing” amid coronavirus concerns, March 20. PHOTO FROM FR. GILBERT BILLENA, O. CARM. As lockdown continues, faithful may Vatican approves special ‘Mass in the Time of Pandemic’ send prayer requests online THE The Vatican has asked priests do not believe in God; those in public pandemic; relieve the pain of the sick, around the world to recite a new prayer office; and those in special need. give strength to those who care for during this year’s Good Friday liturgy, The new prayer is titled “For the them, welcome into your peace those and urged them to offer Masses for the afflicted in time of pandemic”. It who have died and, throughout this end of the coronavirus pandemic. begins with the priest saying: “Let us time of tribulation, grant that we may The Congregation for Divine pray also for all those who suffer the all find comfort in your merciful love. Worship issued the new intention for consequences of the current pandemic, Through Christ our Lord. Amen.” the Solemn Intercessions during the that God the Father may grant health The new prayer was presented with Celebration of the Lord’s Passion in to the sick, strength to those who care a decree signed by the congregation’s light of the coronavirus pandemic. for them, comfort to families and prefect, Cardinal Robert Sarah, and its The Solemn Intercessions, which salvation to all the victims who have secretary, Archbishop Arthur Roche. are derived from ancient prayers, are died.” The decree, dated March 30, said: recited on Good Friday for various After a moment of silent prayer, “The Celebration of the Passion of the categories of people. They include the the priest continues: “Almighty ever- Lord on Good Friday this year has a With public masses still suspended, the CBCP Media has opened an online portal, pope; bishops, priests and deacons; living God, only support of our human particular significance because of the where Catholics can send their Mass intention requests. CBCPNEWS the faithful; catechumens, other weakness, look with compassion terrible pandemic that has stricken the Christians; the Jewish people; those upon the sorrowful condition of your whole world. WONDERING where to technology for our pastoral who do not believe in Christ; those who children who suffer because of this Pandemic / A6 request Mass intentions concerns and liturgical as lockdown continues in celebrations,” he said. Filipina nun dies of Covid-19 in Spain Luzon and other parts of the To request for Mass San Carlos bishop joins calls for country? intentions, CBCP News coronavirus mass testing A FILIPINA Benedictine The Media Office of the has provided a form on its nun has succumbed to Catholic Bishops, Conference website that may be used for A CATHOLIC bishop has crucial role of mass testing,” coronavirus in Spain, her of the Philippines (CBCP) has such purpose. joined the calls for mass Alminaza said in March 24 congregation reported on created an online platform Msgr. Quitorio said they testing for coronavirus in the statement. March 28. on Friday to accept request will then ask priests to Philippines, as some analysts He stressed that Singapore, Sr. Maria Gratia Balagot, for prayers. say Mass online for their warned 26,000 people in South Korea and Japan were who was the superior of their Its director, Msgr Pedro intentions. the country are likely to be able to stem the spread of community in India, was only Quitorio, said the faithful Though partially, CBCP infected by end of March. Covid-19 because of their visiting Spain to renew her may now request for prayers News has also listed the Bishop Gerardo Alminaza fast, efficient and effective visa when she was infected through the website of CBCP “online Masses” offered in of San Carlos agreed with testing systems. with Covid-19. News, the news service of the different dioceses throughout a group of scientists that “We also wish to stress “And while there, (she) bishops’ conference. the country—as public the widespread testing is openness and transparency contracted the virus,” “Amid the Covid-19 crisis, Masses remain suspended “crucial” in containing the on the part of the government, the US-based Missionary we are encouraged to make due to coronavirus. (CBCP transmission of the virus. which were key in the Benedictine Sisters – Norfolk good use of the digital News) “We wish to emphasize the Mass Testing / A6 Sr. Maria Gratia Balagot Nun / A6 A2 WORLD NEWS March 30 - April 12, 2020, Vol 24, No. 7 CBCP Monitor

Vatican Briefing How CRS is helping refugees

Vatican flags at half-staff in solidarity with coronavirus victims amid coronavirus Vatican flags are flying at half-staff on March 31 in solidarity with the victims of the coronavirus in Italy and worldwide. “Today, in solidarity with Italy, the Holy See will display flags at half-mast in mourning to express its closeness to the victims of the pandemic in Italy and in the world, to their families, and to all those who generously struggle for its end,” Holy See Press Office Director Matteo Bruni told journalists March 31. Pope Francis met with the Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte at the Vatican the day prior as the Italian government attempts to confront an outbreak which has led Italy to have the highest number of coronavirus mortalities in the world. (Courtney Mares/CNA)

As people are ordered to stay home, pope calls for help for homeless As national and local governments have been issuing stay-at-home or shelter-in-place orders to curb the spread of the coronavirus, Pope Francis asked people to pray for and assist those who are homeless. He offered his morning Mass March 31 for those who are homeless “at a time when people are asked to stay at home.” At the start of a livestreamed Mass from the chapel of his residence, the pope prayed that people become aware of all those who lack shelter and housing and help them and that the church would “welcome them.” (Carol Glatz/CNS)

Vatican publishes document on right to water access Access to clean water is an essential human A Rohingya refugee camp in Bangladesh. Credit: DFID (CC BY 2.0). right that must be defended and protected, the Vatican Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human DHAKA, Bangladesh— There are living in really tight quarters,” Bennan partners, has been providing hygiene Development said in a new document. Defending the nearly 700,000 refugees living in said. and sanitation supplies to the camps, as right to clean water is part of the Catholic Church’s close quarters in the world’s largest Many countries have adopted stay-at- well as training and materials for local promotion of the common good, “not some particular refugee settlements in Bangladesh, home orders and strict social distancing health institutions. making them vulnerable as the measures in response to the virus. For One of the biggest priorities, national agenda,” the dicastery said, calling for “a coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic the Rohingya refugee population in Brennan said, is simply communicating management of water so as to ensure universal and spreads. Bangladesh, Brennan said, and in many information about how to protect sustainable access to it for the future of life, the Caroline Brennan, Catholc Relief other areas where refugees are, it can be oneself from the virus, but doing so in planet and the human community.” The 46-page Services’ emergency communications almost impossible for people to distance the camps in a safe way. document, titled “Aqua Fons Vitae: Orientations on director, told CNA that in areas where themselves from others in this way. “Obviously, we don’t want to bring Water, Symbol of the Cry of the Poor and the Cry of CRS is serving refugees, such as in There may be up to ten people living people together in large groups,” she the Earth,” was released by the Vatican March 30. Bangladesh, they are adapting their in a small space with nowhere else to said. (Junno Arocho Esteves/CNS) programs as quickly as possible so they go, she said, which means access to safe “And often times, that’s how you are still relevant and safe during the space is a problem, as well as access to conduct programming— bringing people pandemic. the means for refugees to keep clean. together for a training or bringing Pope offers Mass for those living in fear of pandemic “In this case, when we’re looking In addition, Bangladeshi authorities children together in a classroom.” Pope Francis offered his daily morning Mass at a virus like the coronavirus...there fear that the coming cyclone season CRS has had to adapt to using large for those who find themselves living in fear of the is such a heightened vulnerability in will cause sewage to overflow into posters, printed in several languages, to coronavirus pandemic sweeping the world. “Let us these settlements, where you have flimsy shelters and possibly spread get the word out rather than gathering pray today for the many people who cannot cope, who very large populations in extremely the coronavirus, the New York Times people in groups to convey information remain frightened by this pandemic. May the Lord help congested environments, and where reported this week. about how to keep themselves safe from them to stand up, to react for the good of all society and multi-generational family members are Brennan said CRS, along with local the virus, Brennan said. (CNA) the entire community,” the pope said March 30 at the start of his livestreamed Mass. In his homily, the pope reflected on the day’s first reading and Gospel, which During coronavirus, Rome’s homeless find recalled the stories of two women—one falsely accused and the other caught in the act of sin—who faced death sentences. (Junno Arocho Esteves/CNS) refuge near the Vatican

Vatican confirms pope does not have COVID-19 ROME Italy— Along the But the outer edge of edge of Bernini’s colonnade, Neither Pope Francis nor any of his closest Bernini’s colonnade still the semi-circular rows of collaborators have the COVID-19 virus, said Matteo hosts many of its usual guests, columns which wrap St. though numbers are slightly Bruni, director of the Vatican press office. In a note Peter’s Square in Rome, reduced. “Some people really March 28, Bruni confirmed that a monsignor, who many homeless spend time do not want to go; they prefer works in the Vatican Secretariat of State and lives in the during the day and sleep at to stay outside,” the officer Domus Sanctae Marthae, where Pope Francis lives, did night, as tourists and locals said, adding that the police test positive for the coronavirus and, “as a precaution,” walk by. cannot force anyone to go to a was hospitalized. The Italian newspaper Il Messaggero But during the coronavirus shelter against his or her wish. and the Jesuit-run America magazine published reports pandemic, which has led Despite added risks, the March 25 about the monsignor testing positive. Bruni Italian authorities to lock services for homeless men and said that as of March 28, the Vatican health service had down the country, close St. women near the Vatican have conducted more than 170 tests for the virus. No one else Peter’s Square, and order continued uninterrupted, who lives at the Domus Sanctae Marthae tested positive, everyone to stay home, where including the papal charities- Bruni said. (Cindy Wooden/CNS) can those with nowhere to go An elderly homeless man walks along the colonnade of St. Peter’s Square, March 15, run showers and bathrooms, 2020, days after their closure to tourists. ANDREAS SOLARO/AFP VIA GETTY IMAGES find shelter? located under and between There are an estimated 8,000 3,000 will not be able to “Even to go to the bathroom the right colonnade and a ‘Gospel of life’ needed now more than ever, pope says homeless in Rome, according find room in shelters across is a problem without a house; Vatican wall. Defending life is not an abstract concept but a duty to Massimiliano Signifredi, the city, and instead choose and to wash your hands Now, volunteers take for all Christians and it means protecting the unborn, communications director “to live at the train stations frequently, like we should, names in the morning of the poor, the sick, the unemployed and migrants, Pope for Sant’Egidio, a Catholic and at places like St. Peter’s you cannot do if you are on people wanting to use the Francis said. Even though humanity is living in “the community and volunteer Square, which continues to the street.” facilities, and police use the age of universal human rights,” it continues to face network based in Rome. be a place of refuge for those One state police officer lists to allow those people to “new threats and new slaveries” as well as legislation “Unfortunately, no one has without a home.” who works near the Vatican, enter the area, accessible only that “is not always in place to protect the weakest and thought of these people,” he During the coronavirus and who spoke to CNA on through the closed square. most vulnerable human life,” the pope said March 25 told CNA. “These people are pandemic, with the streets condition of anonymity, said Sant’Egidio and another during a live broadcast of his weekly general audience at risk, not only because of abandoned and bars and one of the places where many Catholic charity, Caritas from the library of the Apostolic Palace. “Every human the virus, but because of restaurants closed, “those homeless typically sleep at Roma, continuing to isolation.” being is called by God to enjoy the fullness of life,” he who do not have a home night—under the gallery of distribute food to people in Of those 8,000 homeless, find themselves in great one of the nearby buildings— said. And because all human beings are “entrusted to need according to their usual he explained that around difficulty,” Signifredi said. is now empty. schedules. (CNA) the maternal care of the church, every threat to human dignity and life cannot fail to be felt in her heart, in her maternal ‘womb.’” (Junno Arocho Esteves/CNS) First bishop known to die of coronavirus was missionary in Ethiopia

CNA Staff— The Italian bishop of a the death of the Apostolic Vicar of Bishops’ Conference of Ethiopia and the If you can’t go to confession, take your sorrow missionary region of Ethiopia is the first Gambella (Ethiopia), namely Msgr. entire Catholic Church in Ethiopia. May directly to God, pope says Catholic bishop known to have died of Angelo Moreschi, SDB, who died today, his soul rest in peace.” People who cannot get to confession because the global coronavirus pandemic. He March 25, in Brescia (Italy) due to the Bishop Moreschi was renowned in of the coronavirus lockdown or another serious died March 25. coronavirus,” the Salesians of Don Bosco Ethiopia for his pastoral ministry to the reason can go to God directly, be specific about their Bishop Angelo Moreschi, 67, was the said in a statement released through the service of young people and the poor. In sins, request pardon and experience God’s loving leader of Ethiopia’s Apostolic Vicariate order’s information bureau. the local dialect, he was afforded the title forgiveness, Pope Francis said. “This is the right of Gambella, a missionary region of The secretary general of Ethiopia’s “Abba,” meaning “Father. time, the opportune moment. An act of contrition 25,000 Catholics in the western part of bishops’ conference announced the Bishop Moreschi died “after serving done well, and our souls will become white like the country. He died Wednesday in the news in the country, announced the young, the poor and his flock of souls the snow,” the pope said March 20 during his Italian city of Brescia, in the Lombardy conveying “deep condolences to the as a Salesian for 46 years, as a priest livestreamed morning Mass. Pope Francis began region that has become the European Clergy, religious, bereaved family and for 38, and as a bishop for over 10,” the the Mass by praying again for doctors, especially in epicenter of the pandemic. the lay faithful in the Apostolic Vicariate Salesians said. northern Italy, where the COVID-19 pandemic still A member of the Salesians of Don of Gambella.” More than 60 priests have died in Bosco religious order, Moreschi had been To the mourning people of the the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, is infecting thousands and leading to the deaths of a missionary in Ethiopia since 1991. He Gambella vicariate, the country’s which has claimed more than 21,000 hundreds of people each day. (Cindy Wooden/ was ordained a bishop in January 2010. bishops pledged the “closeness and lives globally. Several bishops have CNS) “The Salesian community mourns prayers of members of the Catholic contracted the virus. (CNA) WORLD NEWS CBCP Monitor March 30 - April 12, 2020, Vol 24, No. 7 NEWS FEATURES A3 Pope Francis warns of a coronavirus ‘genocide’ if economy prioritized over people

VATICAN— In a private letter to “I believe [her vision] can help to an Argentine judge, Pope Francis think about the future,” he wrote is reported to have warned that in the letter, which also mentioned government decisions to prioritize Mazzucato’s book “The Value of the economy over people could Everything: Making and Taking in result in a “viral genocide.” the Global Economy,” according to “The governments that face the America Magazine. crisis in this way show the priority To combat the spread of the of their decisions: the people first. coronavirus, at least 174 countries ... It would be sad if they opted for have implemented COVID-19 the opposite, which would lead related travel restrictions, according to the death of very many people, to the Center for Strategic and something like a viral genocide,” International Studies. Pope Francis wrote in a letter sent Argentina was one of the first Latin March 28, according to America American countries to implement Magazine, which reported it had strict coronavirus restrictions obtained the letter. prohibiting entry to foreigners The pope sent a handwritten on March 17 and implemented a note in response to a letter from 12-day mandatory quarantine on Judge Roberto Andres Gallardo, March 20. the president of the Pan-American There have been 820 documented Committee of Judges for Social coronavirus cases in Argentina and Rights, Argentine news agency 22 deaths from COVID-19. Telam reported March 29. “The choice is to take care of the “We are all concerned at the economy or take care of lives. I chose increase … of the pandemic,” Pope to take care of lives,” Argentine Francis wrote, while praising President Alberto Fernandez said some governments for “adopting March 25, according to Bloomberg. exemplary measures with priorities Pope Francis during his weekly General Audience on April 1, 2020. VATICAN MEDIA Global documented coronavirus that are well targeted at defending cases have surpassed 745,000 the population” and serving “the people from contagion,” Telam the global coronavirus outbreak. dehumanized criminals),” he wrote, confirmed cases, of which more common good.” reported. “There are already some according to Telam. than 100,000 cases are in Italy The pope also said he was “edified Pope Francis recounted in the consequences that must be faced: The pope’s letter also cited the and 140,000 in the United States, by the response of so many people, letter that he has been in discussions hunger, especially for people economist Dr. Mariana Mazzucato, reports the Italian Ministry doctors, nurses, volunteers, with the Vatican Dicastery for without permanent work, violence, whose published work argues that of Health and Johns Hopkins religious, priests, who risk their Integral Human Development to the appearance of usurers (who are state intervention can drive growth University respectively. (Courney lives to heal and defend healthy “prepare ourselves for what follows” the true plague of a social future, and innovation. Mares/CNA) Indian bishop condemns ‘shocking’ Priests arrested for public Mass celebrations disinfectant spray of migrant workers during coronavirus shutdowns a spokesman for the Amid lockdowns Mananthavady diocese, responding to the coronavirus told UCA News that the pandemic, at least three arrest “seems to be a case priests were arrested Sunday, of misunderstanding,” March 29, for celebrating because the Mass in question Mass publicly, in alleged was celebrated inside the defiance of government seminary chapel. The priests orders banning religious and seminarians are residents gatherings during the of the seminary, UCA News pandemic. reported. In Uganda, Fr. Deogratius The police were reportedly Kiibi Kateregga was arrested called after neighbors saw March 29 for celebrating the religious sisters arrive at Mass at St Joseph’s Catholic the chapel. Parish in Mpigi, Uganda. Indian prime minister There were reportedly at least Narendra Modi instituted a Bishop Ignatius D’Souza. DIOCESE OF BAREILLY 15 Catholics in attendance at Fr. Deogratius Kiibi Kateregga during a Mass at a village in Kampala, the capital of 21-day lockdown on March the Mass. Uganda, in 2014. PHOTO FROM HCFM – EAST AFRICA 24. A BISHOP in India has being allowed to return home. The priest is well-known Another arrest took place in condemned the spraying of “We sprayed them here in Uganda, and came to Commander. Uganda currently has 30 Kerala on March 23, when Fr. migrant workers and their as part of the disinfection national notoriety after a “We want him to tell us cases of the coronavirus. Paul Padayatti from Our Lady children with disinfectant, drive, we don’t want them televised 2018 sermon at why he is doing this,” Godfrey In India’s Kerala state, two of Perpetual Help Church after a video posted to to be carriers for the virus the memorial Mass for a Matovu, the Mpigi District priests, two seminarians, in Koodapuzha celebrated a Twitter showed public health and it could be hanging on Ugandan musician, Mowzey Internal Security Officer, told and three religious sisters requiem Mass at which more authorities doing exactly their clothes, now all borders Radio, who died from injuries the Daily Monitor. were charged with violating than 100 people attended. that. have been sealed so this won’t sustained in a bar fight. The priest was released government orders after a Kerala officials also said The video was posted to happen again,” he said. Local officials said the after parishioners protested Mass celebrated in a chapel there have been two other Twitter Sunday. The Times of Other government officials priest was arrested along on his behalf at the police at the minor seminary of the incidents where authorities India reported that families said the disinfectant was with seven other Catholics station, according to local Congregation of Missionaries issued warning to priests at a bus stand in the northern really meant for the buses and was detained at the Mpigi media reports. of Faith in the Wayanad conducting Mass. Indian city of Bareilly were and that the incident was police station. On March 18, Uganda’s district of Kerala. As of March 29, India told to sit on the ground, a mistake. Lav Agarwal, an “He was found preaching in President Yoweri Museveni All seven were released has reported 980 cases of and were then sprayed with official of the Ministry of the church in contravention suspended religious and after their arrest, according COVID-19 and 24 deaths a bleaching agent mixed with Health and Family Welfare, of the presidential directives,” cultural gatherings for at to UCA News, with a warning related to the outbreak, water. said Monday that workers said Herbert Nuwagaba, least 32 days in an attempt to not to repeat their actions. according to the New York In the video, parents and involved in the incidents have the Mpigi District Police stop the spread of COVID-19. Father Manoj Kakkonal, Times. (CNA) their children sat on the been reprimanded. streets of Bareilly and are “This is an overzealous Vatican statistics show decline in number of consecrated men, women showered with a chemical action done by some solution of chlorine mixed employees at the field level, VATICAN— The decrease in the with 26.3 and Africa with 19.4 Catholics with water. Men in hazmat either out of ignorance or number of religious brothers and for every 100 inhabitants. suits can be heard telling the fear,” he said, according to of women in religious orders is Asia, the report noted, has the lowest migrants to close their eyes CNN. “worrying,” according to the Vatican percentage of Catholics in the general and mouths. D’Souza emphasized the statistics office. population, making up 3.3 Catholics for Bishop Ignatius D’Souza of difficulties facing vulnerable While the number of religious every 100 inhabitants due to “the great Bareilly said spraying migrant people returning to their brothers in Africa and Asia continues spread of non-Christian denominations workers with disinfectant was home villages, noting that the to increase, the number of religious in the continent.” inhumane. Church in Bareilly has been brothers worldwide experienced an 8% The number of bishops of the world “This is inhuman, because distributing food packets to drop between 2013 and 2018, while the continued to increase in 2018, reaching these people are poor and those who arrive. number of women religious fell 7.5% 5,337 worldwide compared to 5,173 in globally in the same period, the Vatican 2013. marginalized and desperate He said they have delivered This April 14, 2017 photo shows a Franciscan priest our migrants labourers and these packages to displaced Central Office for Church Statistics The report also stated that while greeting two nuns in Jerusalem. DEBBIE HILL/CNS their families. Their dignity people located at bus and reported. the total number of priests—diocesan cannot be violated in this train stations. However, the number of baptized and religious order—around the world in 2018. inhuman and shocking The bishop added that Catholics increased by 6% between increased slightly—by 0.3% in the 2013- The number of candidates for manner,” the bishop said, wealthy and well-known 2013 and 2018, reaching 1.33 billion or 2018 period—the numbers “appear the priesthood—both in diocesan according to Asia News. people with with COVID-19 almost 18% of the global population, rather disappointing overall.” seminarians and in religious orders— Minister Narendra have been treated differently the statistics office reported March 25. Europe, it said, showed a decrease who had reached the level of philosophy Modi placed the country than poor people in India, The figures are presented in the of more than 7% in 2018 alone, and theology studies showed “a slow and on lockdown as cases of according to Asia News. He “Annuario Pontificio 2020,” the while the decline in Oceania was a gradual” downturn. COVID-19 in India have said everyone needs to be Vatican yearbook, and will appear in little over 1%. The decline in both The number of priesthood candidates reached 1,251. The lockdown treated with human dignity. the Statistical Yearbook of the Church, continents account for the low fell to 115,880 men at the end of 2018 has closed down borders and “Each person has to be which gives detailed figures on the numbers worldwide. compared to 118,251 men at the end forced migrant workers in treated with human dignity, church’s workforce, sacramental life, However, the 14.3% increase of priests of 2013, with Europe as well as North India’s largest cities to return the celebrities who tested dioceses and parishes. The statistics in Africa and 11% in Asia over 2013-2018 and South America accounting for the home to their villages. positive in India (who are based on figures valid as of Dec. 31, “is quite comforting,” while numbers largest reduction in numbers. Ashok Gautam, an officer travelled to Lucknow), 2018. in North and South America “remain Nevertheless, the report stated, in charge of COVID-19 received best treatment, our The region with the highest proportion stationary,” the report said. “Africa, with a positive variation of 15.6%, operations in northern India, poor people do not deserve of Catholics, the yearbook reported, is in The yearbook also said that the confirms that it is the geographical area told CNN that as many as this indignity, it’s an affront North and South America with “63.7 number of permanent deacons is with the greatest potential to cover the 5,000 people have been against the dignity of the Catholics per 100 inhabitants,” followed “rapidly evolving,” noting a significant needs of pastoral services.” (Junno similarly disinfected before human person.” (CNA) by Europe with 39.7 Catholics, Oceania increase from 43,195 in 2013 to 47,504 Arocho Esteves/CNS) A4 OPINION March 30 - April 12, 2020, Vol 24, No. 7 CBCP Monitor

EDITORIAL

Church in action

TRUE to the Gospel, the Catholic church is not wont to parading its good deeds. On Ash Wednesday, it admonishes the faithful: “when you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing.” (Mt 6:3). But this is about not being in the league of the Pharisees who perform deeds to solicit praises from people and gratify their bloated ego. In terms of the Christian mission to be light of the word, the mandate is “not to light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, so that it may shine to all who are in the house.” (Mt. 5:15) The hashtag #ChurchInAction has been circulating in social media early in the Covid-19 pandemic. Some Catholics have been posting and sharing in social media what several dioceses and religious groups have been doing to ease the impact of the current crisis, especially among the poor and the frontliners. At the forefront is Caritas Manila that has given out more than a billion-peso worth of gift-certificates, grocery vouchers, Covid safety kits, among others, to about four million households. Several parishes and catholic schools, spearheaded by those in Metro Manila, opened their doors as temporary shelters for the homeless and medical frontliners. Several social action centers and parishes throughout the country responded with their “kindness stations” that provided food packs to the poor that are the most vulnerable in these times of crises. Early on, Archbishop Romulo Valles, president of the Catholic BORROMEO BY ZACH ILLUSTRATION Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, encouraged dioceses to create programs and systems to reach out to the needy. Ecumenism means Yearning that “prayer move us to action,” he said, “This is a time Living Mission of difficulty but also a time for growing in true discipleship as we recognizing our strive to follow the Lord in selfless love and service to others.” Fr. James H. Kroeger, MM mutual gifts When in a crisis

DEFINITELY, when we are in some especially difficult THE Second Vatican Council in its Practicing Ecumenism. The heart. This is true because Christians situation like what we are having nowadays with the ecumenism document, Unitatis Vatican Council invited Catholics to often fail to live by the truths of their coronavirus pandemic, we should band together, close ranks Redintegratio, clearly affirms the begin actual ecumenical practices, not faith. Thus, the Church gives us the and help one another in any way we can. value of other Christian churches waiting until full communion is restored. season of Lent each year as a time of Everyone, from those in position of government to the and ecclesial communities. Indeed, Concrete ecumenical endeavors actually purification, renewal, and conversion. lowest citizen of the community, should care for one another. there are authentic elements of what serve to move forward the progress Recall that at each Mass we begin by Our differences and conflicts in some issues should take a constitutes a “church” in various toward Christian unity. asking pardon for our sins and offenses. backseat, at least temporarily. They can be attended to at Christian communities outside the One may cite various concrete Vatican II noted: “All the faithful some other time. Like in the hospitals when there are just Catholic Church; all should value steps that can foster the ecumenical should remember that the more effort too many patients seeking attention and admission, we have and respect these genuine “ecclesial movement: (1) we avoid all negative they make to live holier lives according to do some triage. elements.” stereotypes or false assumptions to the Gospel, the better they will further When our very own life, health and survival of our society Some examples of our mutual gifts are: about other Christians; (2) dialogues Christian unity and put it into practice. are under threat, let’s work together to tackle the problem Sacred Scripture, various sacraments, between experts and leaders of various For the closer their union with the together, and avoid bickering, complaining, fault-finding and the life of grace, the Holy Spirit and churches are encouraged; (3) members Father, the Word, and the Spirit, the the other etceteras of negative activities among ourselves. spiritual gifts, the virtues of faith, hope of various churches join mutual projects more deeply and easily will they be able If we notice certain aspects of the problem to be disregarded and charity, and even certain church or initiatives that serve the poor and to grow in mutual brotherly love” (UR or are given inadequate attention, then let’s bring them out institutions. These mutual gifts can be needy; (4) Christians may join in 7). Only with “renewed hearts” will to the proper authorities. But this should be done always in put at the service of a variety of people; common prayer when appropriate; all Christians make progress toward the proper tone, with great delicacy albeit with utter clarity, they can also enhance the effectiveness and, (5) each church commits itself to genuine fraternity and unity! especially when the matter involved is considered urgent. of mission and evangelization in today’s its own personal reform, self-renewal, Knowing Our Christian But if we ourselves can already do something about these world. conversion and transformation. Neighbors. Practical ecumenism aspects of the problem, then let’s do it ourselves without Other Christian communities may lack These various practices are begins with knowing and appreciating unnecessarily bothering the others or the higher entities in some of the structures that Catholics encouraged in Unitatis Redintegratio our “separated brethren,” our Christian our society. It’s part of the principle of subsidiarity that should view as essential to being a church (e.g. in its second chapter (UR 5-12), entitled: neighbors. Since in our times govern our social, collective life. The other two are those of the apostolic succession of bishops or a “The Practice of Ecumenism.” There cooperation in social matters (peace, the common good and solidarity. It would be good if we once valid Eucharist). However, “the Spirit are opportunities to pray together (UR justice, ecology, human rights) is widely again review these social principles. of Christ has not refrained from using 5-8), learn together (UR 9-11), and work valued and promoted, all Christians When our government orders some drastic measures like them as means of salvation” (UR 3). together (UR 12). All these common without exception are exhorted to lockdown or quarantine, etc., to tackle the problem of the Indeed, God uses these communities initiatives can pave the road toward engage in united social efforts. This coronavirus, we have to presume that things are studied well to save their members. Briefly stated, Christian unity. imperative is laid upon all Christians, and that these extreme measures are resorted to with good non-Catholic Christians are brought to A Change of Heart is Needed. since they have been baptized in the measure of prudence—that is, to avoid a greater harm and salvation not despite their churches, but In promoting ecumenical practice, the name of Christ the Servant. Indeed, damage to the people and to our society in general. because and through them. Thus, we Second Vatican Council noted that there genuine ecumenism enhances our I know that some of us may feel that such measures are an rejoice in God’s magnanimous, merciful can be no authentic ecumenism without knowledge, appreciation, and service of over-reaction, and that they fail to consider the unpleasant love and compassion! sincere conversion and a change of our neighbors! implications on some sectors of our society. Truth is they are indeed a bitter pill to take. No question about that. SHIT in the time But if we consider what is happening in other countries that And That’s The Truth are affected by the same problem and what they did to tackle of COVID that problem, then we should understand why such measures Teresa R. Tunay, OCDS have to be resorted to. Yes, no doubt everyone suffers, though in different ways and in different degrees. That consequence cannot be helped. That is just part of our human condition here on earth, whether THE following was forwarded us indoors and wired 24/7, take all that toilet paper and community. Remember we are in good times or in bad. to me, and instead of trashing forwarding both facts and fake corned beef to the grave. panic and paranoia can That is why we should just help one another. Those who it because of its title and its news, coping advice, quirky So what if you run out of also kill. Replace internet are stronger among us, better positioned, favored or endowed unknown origin (although inputs from irrepressible rice? Eat boiled kamote and time with meaningful should give a helping hand to those who are weaker and less its references are mostly YouTubers, and of course, vegetables even if you hate conversations with family fortunate. This is where the social principles of the common Christian), I gave it a chance— chain prayer requests. Self- them, because you know they members. “Bonding” is a good, solidarity and subsidiarity should get into action. This and I am thankful I did. It’s serving prayers have turned are way healthier than your big word today; might as crisis can be a wonderful occasion to find new and creative not as offensive as its “cover” PRAY into another four-letter favorite junk food and can well be, for no one knows ways to help one another. made it seem. So I urge you word. Well, here’s a real four- boost your immune system. when one could get infected Besides, if we are genuine Christians, we already know and to read before you judge. letter word that doesn’t care Obey health rules, get some and die. Take advantage are assured that everything will always work out for the good. Here goes: a hoot about sounding clean: sun, exercise. Even those of the quarantine period (cfr. Rome 8,28) We already know that whatever suffering we Since this pandemic first SHIT, an acronym for four who live in hovels or under to organize your neglected would undergo here can have positive, constructive and salvific burst out of Wuhan, the Be-attitudes. the bridge can walk in place. tasks. Whether you’re sick or effect on us. Christ takes care of everything. What we cannot do, world has been increasingly Be Sober: For goodness Stop being obsessed with not, do your family a favour he can do it. What is impossible to us is always possible to him. abuzz trying to demystify it sake, be still! Don’t panic survival; you could also catch and write your (Last) Will So, we should not worry too much and waste our time with the primary concern and hoard. It’s not the end the virus at a supermarket and Testament; that should fighting each other over some perceived inadequacies, of staying untouched by it. of the world, and even if you queue. Be a sensible and take away a lot of headaches missteps and mistakes that others, especially our public The lockdown has forced die next week, you cannot sobering influence in your And That’s The Truth / A7 officials, may commit. Let’s just be sport about everything. We cannot avoid some mistakes and setbacks from happening. But these should not stop us from moving on. Back to the dark ages? Instead of focusing on the mistakes and raising complaints, Candidly Speaking let us find solutions and offer some help. The very least that we can do and can be done always is to pray and offer sacrifices. Fr. Roy Cimagala

CBCP OF course, not! If at all, this extraordinary It does not really matter what part of belong to, since we would know how to time we are having these days because earthly time we live in. What matters is relate our here and now to our definitive of the coronavirus pandemic is a clear that we know how to relate our time to life beyond. Monitor invitation for us to learn to live for the eternity, the natural to the supernatural, The things in this world and life only PROTAGONIST OF TRUTH, PROMOTER OF PEACE future. In fact, it is the material to the spiritual. Thus, we have a relative value. They are meant to offering us an opportunity to learn to should learn how to drop and leave offer us the means, the reason and the Pedro Quitorio live for eternity. We should be happy everything behind when the time comes occasion to relate ourselves to God from Editor-in-Chief about this development. This pandemic for us to enter the eternal life, and be whom we come and to whom we belong Roy Lagarde Mercedita Juanite is a clear blessing in disguise. ready to face our Father and Creator. in a most intimate way. It is our relation Associate Editor Circulation Manager Yes, we have to learn to detach Our usual problem is that we tend with God that has absolute value. ourselves from time, whether it is the to get swallowed up by our earthly Everything else follows from there. Ron Ramos, Sky Ortigas Marcelita Dominguez prehistoric era, ancient, dark ages, condition of time and nature, ignoring And so, with the new conditions Design Artists Comptroller medieval, modern or contemporary the far richer reality of our definitive that now are imposed on us, like the The CBCP Monitor is published fortnightly by the time. More precisely said, while we live life with God in heaven for all eternity. lockdown, quarantine, curfew, the social CBCP - Media Office with editorial and business offices at 3rd Floor, CBCP in time, we have to learn to transcend If we would just know the ultimate distancing, disinfecting, etc., which Compound, 470 General Luna Street, Intramuros, Manila. Email Address: [email protected], Business: (632) 8404 - 1612. it, setting our mind and heart always on parameters of our life as provided by our perhaps may force us to do things that we ISSN 1908-2940. eternity where we are meant to be in our Christian faith, then we would not really usually do not do anymore, like cooking definitive state. mind what historical era and culture we Candidly Speaking / A7 OPINION CBCP Monitor March 30 - April 12, 2020, Vol 24, No. 7 OPINION A5

Living under the Whisper from the Desert Inside Out Fr. Amado L. Picardal, CSsR, STD COVID-19 lockdown Fr. Spencer Lewerenz

THE corona-virus that started in Wuhan- prayer, meditative recitation of the write, do research, work on projects, China has spread to all parts of the rosary)—holistic method of deepening learn a new language, pursue your world including the Philippines. A total spirituality, managing stress as well as hobby, gardening, play and listen to Meditations lockdown or enhanced quarantine has boosting your immune system. music, compose songs and poems, start been imposed to contain its exponential 6. Observe healthy diet (mostly plant- a diary, etc. from the dark valley spread. Nobody knows how long this based). Fish & meat consumption is 10. Maintain social contact with THE world has entered a valley of shadows. We don’t know will last. How should we spend our not essential—there are other sources family members, friends and colleagues where we are going or when it will end. We feel lost. I am a time under lock-down? Here are some of protein (rice & beans, eggs). Human through the internet/social media. Give priest, but I am lost in this valley with you. No matter how suggestions: beings can survive on one meal a day— them updates on what is happening. much I have tried to gain a sense of direction over the past 1. Appreciate this period of physical this is called intermittent fasting which Share with them what you are doing, weeks, it keeps slipping through my fingers, leaving me more isolation, solitude and silence. This is a maximizes the utilization of fat deposits your thoughts and feelings. Participate in lost and confused than I was before. My parish is locked and time of sabbath rest. Consider this as a (ketones) as fuel for the body and boost online meetings/conferences/webinars, empty. We have no collections and thus no money to pay prolonged retreat. immune system—mobilizing the doctor etc. Continue to exercise your prophetic our staff. (Most of them have now been put indefinitely on 2. If you are living with others, maintain and pharmacy within our body. This can mission online: share the Gospel & bring “furlough.”) I feel blessed to be healthy, to have a place to sleep interaction and but observe physical help also in cutting down food expenses. hope, denounce social evils (including and something to eat, but I don’t know what my purpose is distance (one meter, no touch). Join Caloric restriction is the only proven incompetent/corrupt leaders and their anymore. I celebrate mass in front of a church that is empty common meals. Spend time in prayer means of extending one’s life (eat less, minions who are responsible for the except for some people operating a camera. I can only talk to and sharing with each other the Word live longer). Grow your own food. Take culture of death, the spread of this the faithful from a distance, through a phone or other device. of God. Watch online Mass especially vitamin supplements (C & D). Sunlight virus, climate change, etc.). Continue I thought I had become a priest to answer the world’s need, to on Sunday. This is the best time to is best source of Vitamin D. your advocacies. In spite of the physical be part of a “field hospital.” But now that the world is needier strengthen the bond of relationship as 7. Since you cannot go out for a walk or isolation we are still interconnected. We than ever, I am told the best thing I can do is stay in my room. a household/community. a jog, do indoor high intensity exercise can maintain solidarity with others by My priesthood seems useless.

ILLUSTRATION BY ZACH BORROMEO BY ZACH ILLUSTRATION 3. Observe proper hygiene—constantly (weights, push-ups, etc), walk around being part of the virtual community and The scriptures tell us that “By waiting and by calm you wash your hands, clean and disinfect your garden (if you have one) or go movement. While observing appropriate shall be saved, in quiet and in trust shall be your strength” surroundings (especially doorknobs). up and down the stairs. Do Tai-chi or physical distance, reach out to those (Isaiah 30:15) and that God shepherds his flock “beside restful 4. Be well rested, avoid stress. Get calisthenics. living nearby. Greet them from afar. waters” so that we may not fear the dark valley. Something adequate sleep (7-8 hrs). Avoid activities 8. Spend time in reading—feed Occasionally break the silence by in me resists this invitation to spiritual rest. It doesn’t seem that can disrupt sleep patterns (binge your mind, update yourself of what’s sharing your music from your balcony like enough. It seems like I must invent a new, perhaps even watching online movies/TV series, happening, learn something new. Read or rooftop. Find out how you can help busier schedule, chart new goals, projects, achievements… unlimited FB/social media engagement). the bible and other spiritual books. especially those in need. Share your Gain some clarity and direction. But I know this is vanity. 5. Practice meditation (focus on 9. Do something productive or resources with those who are less Our Shepherd leads the way into the valley, into the rest, breathing and mindfulness, centering creative: work at home/in your room, fortunate. into the dark. My insecurity about my purpose and my worth have been Respond to front-liners’ there all along, subconscious credos directing my behavior. Duc in Altum Only now, in slowing down, have I been able to recognize urgent need for PPEs them. It is disorienting, for certain. But the Shepherd leads Atty. Aurora A. Santiago us into the valley so that we can face our fears, sit with them, and see them for what they are: lies, phantoms, sweet little nothings, selling a false bill of goods. God wants to expose the lies so that we can see that there is nothing to be afraid of. He THE front-liners in the Lukban, cardiologist at suits, N95 masks, latex his eyes. loves us no matter what. We can simply sit in the quiet and hospitals are appealing Capitol Medical Center, and gloves and other medical The donated PPEs, test trust him. We have gotten so good at justifying and proving for donations of medical Dr. Helen Tudtud, pathologist supplies. They are needed to kits and medical supplies are ourselves that it is hard to stop. But stop is what we must do. supplies, especially PPEs from Cebu City. They joined protect the front-liners from now at the Bureau of Customs Stop in the name of love. Beside his still waters, we can stop or Personal Protective those who passed on earlier: COVID-19. It is a MUST that and DOH but both agencies avoiding him and let him love us and tell us we are okay… Equipment and Hazmat suits Dr. Israel Bactol, cardiologist they wear protective gear. have not yet released them and more than okay, his beloved. (similar to what astronauts at Philippine Heart Center; NO PPE, NO DUTY, for the to the hospitals. Health Sec. Let us follow our Shepherd into the dark valley and notice wear). These are badly needed Dr. Rose Pulido, oncologist protection of both the front- Francisco Duque III asks that some of the lies we may have believed: by doctors who treat the at San Juan de Dios Hospital; liners and the patients, lest, all donated medical supplies “I need to feel useful and be working/helping/providing”: patients, anesthesiologists Dr. Greg Macasaet III, they be contaminated and be brought to DOH and Some of us feel worthless and lazy when we aren’t working, who intubate patients, anesthesiologist at Manila infected. Sending front-liners requires hospitals to submit providing for our families, or helping others. We have become nurses who take care of the Doctors Hospital; Dr. to COVID-19 ZONE without written letter request with overachievers who find our worth in our ability to help, patients, med techs who Raul Jara, cardiologist at the proper PPEs and hazmat the list of requested items. provide, and please, but inside we are missing something. We handle the specimen, radio Philippine Heart Center; suit is like sending soldiers With this pandemic, red tape are like Martha of Bethany, whom Jesus says is “anxious and technicians who do regular Dr. Henry Fernandez of to war without weapons, a should be avoided, which troubled” from always serving (Luke 10). Many of us are busy x-rays, medical aides who Pangasinan Medical Society; suicidal act. Pres. Duterte himself stated. and troubled because we do not know that our true worth is assist the medical team, Dr. Marcelo Jaochico of *** We suggest that hospital not in what we do. Now that we are required to stay home, housekeeping staff who Pampanga Provincial Health For the millions of dollars/ request be coursed through we have an excuse to slow down and sit with our feeling of handle discharges, cleaning Center; Dr. Raquel Seva, pesos-worth of donated emails. Once received, DOH needing to serve. We can sit still and let God disprove the lie and sanitation, and other OB-Gyne in Laguna; Dr. PPEs, test kits and medical should immediately task that we need to earn love. This is closely related to… allied health workers who Hector Alvarez of Novaliches supplies, we thank Singapore, the Philippine Army, which “I need to feel relevant / like I have a role”: This is a lie that have daily close encounter District Hospital; Dr. Sally South Korea and China, local should be on stand-by at we are facing as a Church. Sometimes we find our worth in with COVID-19 patients. Gatchalian, pediatrician and business companies like SM DOH, to immediately deliver our roles as ministers and teachers running our programs With the enormous President of the Philippine Group, Gokongwei Group, the medical items to the and ministries for the faithful. We find affirmation in feeling increase of COVID-19 Pediatric Society, Inc. May San Miguel, Ayala Group, hospitals. With the DOH useful. But now our churches are locked or empty and we positive, Pres. Duterte your soul rest in peace. Thank Concepcion Industries, bureaucratic requirement, have had to cancel our prayer meetings and sacramental declared an Enhanced you for offering your lives to other businessmen and we will continue to lose front- classes. We no longer have the faithful to affirm us in our roles. Community Quarantine save the lives of COVID-19 kind-hearted individuals liners in the hospitals. Perhaps we feel a little lost and like we need to scramble to (ECQ) of entire Luzon. There patients. Rest in peace and who immediately responded *** find a new role for ourselves. This past week at my parish we is strict home quarantine; God bless! Almost 16% of to the appeal of front-liners We appeal to future donors were busy trying to move our operations online. Perhaps we suspended operation death toll are doctors. They from hospitals. Thank you of PPEs and medical supplies, could have taken more time to sit in silence with our feelings of public transportation; were contaminated either for sharing your time, talent please give your donations of being irrelevant. regulated provision for food due to lack of PPEs or non- and treasure during this directly to the hospitals, “I need to be the hero”: Western culture exalts “the Hero and essential health services; disclosure by the patient pandemic. Other service our front-liners urgently Myth” of “Great Men and Women” who change history and and heightened presence of about their travel abroad. providers give them free or need those PPEs. Do not save worlds. Everyone wants to be a superhero or a saint, one uniformed personnel. Philippine Medical preferential services. Unlike course them through DOH of “the good guys” who proves his goodness through righteous As of March 29, there are Association President Jose what happened to a nurse because of its red tape. Please acts. We priests especially fall into this category. These past 1,418 COVID-19 positive, 343 Santiago stated that the who discriminated upon, do so for the sake of our weeks, I have wrestled with the notion that I can’t minister new cases, 42 recovered, 71 Philippines has many doctors beaten by 5 persons who front-liners and COVID-19 to some of our sick and homebound because I could put their deaths, two of whom were but it lacks PPEs and other threw clorox or bleach on patients. We already lost 11 health at risk. A hero wouldn’t let illness come between the two doctors, Dr. Francisco medical supplies - hazmat his face which may damage Duc in Altum / A7 faithful and the sacraments, right? I have had to sit with the realization that this inclination is to some degree a “saviour complex”: me making my ministry about me. Sometimes the best thing we can do for each other is simply to be still and Faith and Culture The Catholic Church feel our helplessness, trusting that there is a God who cares more for the vulnerable than we do. Cristina A. Montes and the origin of “My family is my world”: For many of us, life revolves around family. Our identity is deeply connected to maintaining family hospitals ties. Many people feel responsible for their families, and feel guilty about being cut off from them for any period of time. IN my last column, I promised to write named Fabiola, who searched the believed that members of the clergy Though we are told to honor father and mother, Jesus is in future columns about the good streets for the poor ill people who could better manage it. A lay Franciscan clear his family are those who “hear the word of God and do Spanish friars in Philippine history needed care. brother, Fray Juan Clemente, treated it” (Luke 8:21). In Christ, the love of the Father introduces whose real-life legacies have been The Knights of Saint John, a military the sick beggars who flocked to the gates us to a whole new identity as children of God and a whole obscured by the fictional evil Spanish religious order during the Crusades, of the convent. When the chapel where new family, the Church. Many young people are now unable friars in Jose Rizal’s novels. Since are also known as “the Hospitallers” he housed them could not accommodate to visit elderly parents for risk of exposing them. We must today’s trending topic is the Covid-19 because they pioneered the modern them anymore, he sought help from the now sit with our broken hearts and “be okay” with just being pandemic, I thought of featuring the hospital. What they originally community and the clergy and raised children of God, trusting that He will care for our loved ones. Spanish friars who established the first established as a hospice for pilgrims funds for a hospital which became “I feel uneasy without my purchase power”: We find great hospitals in the Philippines. to Jerusalem evolved into a hospital known as the Hospital de Naturales, the solace in being consumers, providing for ourselves, even But they played merely a fraction that admitted Muslim and Jewish predecessor of today’s Hospital de San things we don’t particularly need. We like to comfort ourselves of the role the Catholic Church, in patients as well as Christians. It was Lazaro. The Hospitaller Order of San by exercising our purchase power. During this time, malls general, played in the origins of hospitals hygienic by medieval standards and had Juan de Dios established the Hospital de are closed and many of us have lost our jobs or have seen worldwide. organized operations: physicians visited San Juan de Dios in 1643, which exists our income decrease. I sometimes find myself going online While the history of medicine the patients twice a day, patients had up to the present day. just to “window shop.” Last week it kind of rattled me that dates back to the ancient Greeks and two main daily meals and daily baths, And so on, and so forth. The modern many items were out of stock, even though I had no money Romans, historians debate whether while other staff performed chores like hospital is one of the Catholic Church’s to buy anything. Perhaps God wants us to sit with this desire they had institutions resembling laundry. Surgeries were performed. By gifts to the world and to the Philippines. to consume, trusting that we can depend on him. modern hospitals. It is certain, the thirteenth century, the Hospitallers If not for the self-sacrificing men and “People without jobs are ‘losers’ or ‘shameful’”: In our though, that in Ancient Rome, the operated around twenty hospices and women of God who dedicated themselves society, self-sufficiency, the ability to provide for ourselves, early Christians attracted attention leper houses. to carrying out Christ’s command of has become a moral virtue that distinguishes the deserving for their care of the sick during In the Philippines, names of friars and charity, we would have no hospitals. from the undeserving. Those who cannot “do” for themselves plagues. Saints like Saint John religious orders abound in the history (Note: Sources for this article are are seen as morally deficient, lazy, undeserving of compassion Chrysostom, Saint Cyprian, Saint of medicine. In the sixteenth century, How the Catholic Church Built Western or assistance. Many of us who have secretly held this attitude Basil the Great, and Saint Ephrem the Hospital Real, a royal hospital, Civilization by Thomas Woods, Jr. will now face the shame of losing our jobs. This is a good established hospitals and cared for was administered by the Order of St. and A Legacy of Public Health: The time to discover how God’s ways of thinking are different the sick. The first public hospital in Francis and the Confraternity of La Department of Health Story edited by from our own. In sitting with these feelings of shame and Rome was founded by a pious woman Misericordia, because King Philip II Charity Tan.) Inside Out / A7

Whisper from the Desert / A7 A6 LOCAL NEWS March 30 - April 12, 2020, Vol 24, No. 7 CBCP Monitor Italian priest who Cardinal Tagle: ‘Physical distancing’ died to Covid-19 was should not stop ‘community caring’ ‘father’ to OFWs

Fr. Giancarlo Quadri. SCREENSHOT/STO. NIÑO MILAN YOUTUBE ACCOUNT

ONE of the Italian priests prelate said. who died of coronavirus was Quadri dedicated his a “father” to the overseas priesthood helping migrants Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples and president of Caritas Internationalis, celebrates Mass at the Pontifical Filipino College in Rome Feb. 27, 2020, the anniversary of his priestly ordination. The cardinal is living at the college, with priests from the Philippines, other parts of Asia and Africa Filipino workers (OFWs) in with different religions and during Rome’s coronavirus lockdown. COURTESY OF FR. ALFONSO ALOJIPAN/CNS Italy, a Catholic bishop said. cultures. Bishop Ruperto Santos The bishop also mourned AS he echoed the call for compassion. to forgetfulness of neighbor,” this crisis affects all people expressed sympathy over the Italian Fr. Giuseppe “physical distancing” to slow “I know we need physical he said. and so we should think of all death of Fr. Giancarlo Quadri, Berardelli, who sacrificed the spread of coronavirus, distancing and that is needed The cardinal, who heads and the response should be 75, who was instrumental in his life to save a younger a Vatican official said the and we are appealing to the Vatican’s Congregation for the common good,” he the establishment of Filipino coronavirus patient practice should not eliminate everyone to observe it where for the Evangelization of added. chaplaincies in northern Berardelli, 72, made “community caring”. possible,” Tagle said in his Peoples, stressed that physical “As we observe physical Italy. headlines after he gave up a Speaking during Mass for homily at the Pontificio distancing is for the “common distancing, let us not forget “It is with deep sorrow and respirator that parishioners the Feast of the Annunciation Collegio Filippino in Rome. good” and the response the communal caring. That’s great loss when I learned of had bought for him for the on March 25, Cardinal “But the feast of today “should be common for all”. what Jesus did, God with the passing of Don Giancarlo sake of a young person who Luis Antonio Tagle said reminds us that physical “And that is what is needed us,” Tagle also said. (CBCP Quadri because of Covid-19,” he did not know. that the pandemic calls for distancing should not lead today. This is a pandemic and News) Santos said. Santos, who chairs the The prelate met Quadri bishops’ Commission on PCF, when he was still in Rome as said that what Berardelli did Archbishop pays tribute to healthcare workers: rector of Pontificio Collegio was “a powerful lesson of Filippino (PCF) and, at supreme act of sacrifice”. the same time, national “We have asked our OFW’s ‘You are the face of Jesus to us’ coordinator for the pastoral and chaplains to remember care of Filipino migrants in him together with the 66 A CHURCH official has paid tribute to to see the lepers at the Tala Leprosarium but there are also many reasons to be Italy. priests who perished, with the country’s health workers amid the but was not allowed. joyful because you are serving God. And Quadri was the head the God’s mercy and love, coronavirus pandemic, saying that they Instead, he said that the lepers were you are Jesus to us all,” he said. pastoral care of migrants in granting them eternal rest,” are “the face of Jesus” to all the sick. brought to an auditorium of Radio Nine doctors have died due to the the Archdiocese of Milan, the he added. Archbishop Socrates of Villegas of Veritas in Fairview, Quezon City where coronavirus in the Philippines, as second-largest city in Italy. Italian officials said 712 Lingayen-Dagupan has taken to social the pope had an activity. hospitals were overwhelmed with more “Together, we have people died of the illness in media on March 26 to post a tribute to “After the program, when the pope patients that they can feasibly treat. established Filipino the last 24 hours, pushing the healthcare workers in the midst of the saw the lepers at the backstage, he knelt Healthcare workers in hospitals have chaplaincies in Milan, then in death toll to 8,215, while new crisis. down and kissed the first leper and also been voicing frustration and fear Como and Bergamo,” Santos infections to 80,689. In a video message, he said: “To all whispered to him, ‘My Lord, my Lord!’” over the lack protection on the frontlines said. “Learning what is those caring for the sick, you become recalled Villegas. of the fight against the deadly virus. “He was a friend and a happening in Italy, let us not the face of Jesus to them. Jesus in the As frontliners in the fight against As of April 2, the Philippine Medical father to our overseas forget our OFWs and their sick and Jesus in you, you meet together coronavirus, the archbishop said that Association (PMA) said that 17 doctors Filipino workers (OFWs), loved ones here. We pray for caring for each other”. healthcare professionals and other have already died in the frontline working hard spiritually and them and help their families,” At one point of his video, the hospital workers are also “taking care battling the highly-infections disease. economically for us,” the Santos said. (CBCP News) archbishop was seen holding back his of Jesus”. However, the PMA believes that the tears as he recalled Pope John Paul II’s “And we can never pay the love and deaths could have been forestalled Nun / A1 encounter with the lepers during his service that you have given us,” Villegas if there is enough supply of personal visit to Manila in 1981. said. protective equipment (PPEC) for the Priory said in a Facebook hospitals and clinics as well The pope, the archbishop said, wanted “There are many reasons to be afraid health workers. (CBCP News) post. as those in the Philippines, “Please pray for her and for Tanzania, Uganda, Kenya, Mass Testing / A1 her community in India and Namibia, Brazil and India. for the whole congregation Spain ranks second to Italy successes of Singapore and during this difficult time,” the for the number of Covid-19 South Korea,” he said. post reads. patient deaths worldwide The Scientists Unite Against Sr. Balagot, who is and is third for the number COVID, an alliance of more originally from Aringay, La of cases. than 1,000 biologists and Union, died at the age of 71. As of April 2, the death health experts, has earlier She has been a missionary in toll in Spain has jumped to echoed the call of the World India since 2016. 9, 387, while the number of Health Organization for The congregation also said confirmed cases also went up countries to “test, test, test”. that their sisters in Korea to around 104,118. (CBCP “Each day we delay, more are on the frontlines in their News) cases go undetected, and more people may die,” the Pandemic / A1 scientists said. Also composed of 336 “Indeed, on the day on to end this pandemic.” organizations, the group which we celebrate the The New Liturgical led by several University of redeeming passion and Movement reported that the Philippines molecular death of Jesus Christ on the an accompanying decree biologists also launched Cross, who like a slain lamb permitted the votive Mass a petition calling on the has taken upon himself the to be celebrated daily, government to start mass suffering and sin of the except on solemnities, the testing. world, the Church raises Sundays of Advent, Lent They emphasized that her voice in prayer to God and Eastertide, Holy Week mass testing would give the the Father Almighty for all and the Octave of Easter, government a clearer picture humanity, and in particular Ash Wednesday and All of the extent of the infections Bishop Gerardo Alminaza of San Carlos. FILE PHOTO for those who suffer most, Souls’ Day. in the country and respond while she awaits in faith the A votive Mass is a Mass accordingly. in communities around the “We believe that the “We therefore request joy of the resurrection of her differing from the one They added that by country. country has not reached the our government to take all Spouse. prescribed for the day and decentralizing testing As of April 2, the Philippines peak of this virus crisis, and the necessary preparations, “Therefore this celebrated for a special from major hospitals to has recorded at least 2, 633 we fear that the number of including utilizing and Congregation, in virtue of intention. laboratories, the Philippines confirmed coronavirus cases, infected patients could swell empowering our LGU Health the faculties granted to it by According to an unofficial would be able to spot and with 51 recoveries and 107 in the next several weeks,” Departments,” he also said. the Supreme Pontiff Francis, translation on the Vatican contain localized outbreaks deaths. Alminaza added. (CBCP News) availing itself of a possibility News website, the Opening granted in the Roman Missal Prayer, or Collect, reads: Poor / A1 to the diocesan bishop in a “Almighty and eternal God, situation of grave public provident refuge in every The archdiocese has been stepping such as pastoral centers and retreat response areas” set up to serve as care need, proposes an intention danger, kindly turn your gaze up to make all its facilities available to houses to healthcare frontliners and and quarantine facilities. to be added to the Solemn toward us, who with faith medical frontliners including providing street dwellers. Many social action centers and Intercessions of the above implore you in tribulation, transportation services for them. Caritas Manila has also distributed religious have also responded with mentioned celebration, so and grant eternal rest to But the need is rising, the prelate, nearly 140 million worth of gift checks their own “kindness stations” to that the prayers of those the deceased, comfort to stressing that not only doctors and to about 139,000 families as of April 1, serve parishes’ poorest of the poor by who invoke him in their those who weep, health nurses are in need of lodging but aside from its distribution of “Covid-19 providing them food packs. tribulation might reach God to the sick, peace to those also hospital maintenance people and safety kits” and food bags to the city’s Archbishop Valles has earlier the Father and so that, even who are dying, strength orderlies. low-income families. encouraged dioceses to create programs in their adversity, all can to healthcare providers, He tapped religious congregations In Cebu, the archdiocese has turned and systems to reach out to the needy. experience the joy of his a spirit of wisdom to civil to assist in ministering to the needs its biggest building as Covid-19 care “May our prayer move us to action,” mercy.” authorities, and a heart of those who are at risk and those center to serve mildly to moderately he said. The liturgy congregation to draw near to everyone who are involved in responding to the symptomatic patients. “This is a time of difficulty but also a also proposed that priests with love so that together pandemic. The IEC Convention Center Cebu time for growing in true discipleship as celebrate a votive Mass we might glorify your holy The initiative have also been adopted (IC3), formerly known as the IEC we strive to follow the Lord in selfless “specifically to implore God name.” (CNA) in other dioceses, opening their facilities Pavillon, will be among the two “first love and service of others,” Valles said. LOCAL NEWS CBCP Monitor March 30 - April 12, 2020, Vol 24, No. 7 A7 Bishop alarmed over handling Cebu archdiocese turns IEC center into Covid-19 of Covid-19 cases in Albay care facility LEGAZPI, Albay— A Catholic bishop sought the national government’s action over the “alarming and disheartening” way of handling coronavirus cases in Albay province. Echoing the sentiments of many people, Bishop Joel Baylon of Legazpi lamented that at least three Covid-19 patients were placed under home The International Eucharistic Congress PavilLON DURING THE 51ST IEC HELD IN CEBU CITY IN quarantine instead of being JANUARY 2016. FILE PHOTO in strict isolation. Information reaching the CEBU City— The Archdiocese the kindness and generosity diocese also revealed that the of Cebu has opened its of some people in Cebu, to patients were left to the care International Eucharistic become a haven of hope and of barangay health workers Congress (IEC) center, a healing,” Caritas Cebu said “who do not have the proper facility with a floor area of on March 31. training” in handling the about 25, 754 square meters, “The venue that used to disease. for people showing symptoms hold the teachings on the “For the sake of decency of coronavirus. Eucharist will now become and human respect, and The IEC Convention Center a place of concretizing that in the name of our God Bishop Joel Baylon of Legazpi. PHOTO FROM DIOCESE Cebu (IC3), formerly known bread being broken and who suffered for us all, and as the IEC Pavillon, will be shared to those in need continues to suffer of our proper isolation, “logic under a strict lockdown “Will we wait until the among the two “first response in time of this Covid-19 inanities, selfishness and demands”, means in a facility will never protect the entire province of Albay is areas” set up to serve as pandemic,” it added. greed, please do something separated and far away from community from the virus infected with the virus before Covid-19 care and quarantine The San Carlos Seminary about this dire situation,” any vulnerable community for “as long as a person the national government acts facilities. will also serve as BCC’s Baylon said in a statement such as a barangay. infected with it is in their through the Department The other FRA is the Sacred “drop-off area” for medical issued on March 30. He underscored that midst and not properly of Health?” Baylon said. Heart School — Ateneo de supplies and equipment The bishop stressed that declaring a barangay even isolated”. (CBCPNews) Cebu, formerly known as SHS which will be needed by the School for Boys. two centers. The initiative was part The archdiocese has earlier In Sorsogon, Church helps feed the needy with fish of a concerted effort called launched an initiative aimed “Bayanihan Cebu Center” at providing assistance to SORSOGON City— A small project it said on March 21. to share and care, particularly to the (BCC) to serve mildly to frontline workers and relief staged in the Sorsogon diocese has The project is part of its “kindness poor. moderately symptomatic for the poor communities. been quietly contributing to the needy station” for poor communities that will In Iligan diocese, the Duyog Marawi in patients. Through its “Archbishop in recent days. be affected by the month-long lockdown partnership with the Redemptorists also The IC3 was the venue of Teofilo Camomot Buhat As the Luzon-wide lockdown affected in the diocese. activated their own “kindness center” the 51st IEC that brought sa Kalu-oy Program”, mostly the poor, Caritas Sorsogon is Caritas Philippines, the Church’s and have prepositioned rice packs for in over 10,000 participants the archdiocese aims to helping feed the needy in different social action arm, has earlier encouraged starters. from all over the world in provide the basic needs to parishes with fish, along with a pack of dioceses to adopt community-based “It’s a small start, but we hope to 2016. poor families who are at rice and some canned goods. emergency assistance project to make kindness a contagious virus so “Now, its doors are to be a disadvantage due to the “This is our smallest way of kindness decentralize the response. that you too can contribute to make our opened in collaboration with pandemic. (CBCPNews) in alleviating the needs of the poor Fr. Edwin Gariguez, executive poor families survive this crisis,” said parishioners who don’t have food on secretary of Caritas Philippines, said that Rey Barnes, Duyog Marawi executive Candidly Speaking / A4 their table because of the present crisis,” it could also help mobilize communities director. (CBCPNews) and dish-washing, doing lifestyle—we most likely Duc in Altum / A5 laundry, house-cleaning, give our spiritual life a very etc., we should just be game shallow attention and care, doctors. It is a matter of life to those badly affected by home. In so doing, we do not those who died fighting the enough to go through them. if at all. and death both of the medical ECQ, like tricycle and jeepney only help contain COVID-19 unseen enemy. God bless us What matters is that we Now is the time to polish teams and the patients. Time drivers, construction workers but we also help our front- all! relate them to God. These our skill at mental and is of the essence. We are and those under No Work, liners who are already Let us not be another tasks have the same or even contemplative prayer, at already losing many medical No Pay job. The Diocese of exhausted and dwindling. totally irresponsible Sen. more potential sanctifying developing an abiding and experts—cardiologists, Kalookan distributed rice After the incubation period of Koko Pimentel, a PUI or value than our usual serious practical spirit of sacrifice, anesthesiologists, internists. and groceries to the parishes 14 to 21 days, symptoms begin person under investigation, and more difficult jobs during at polishing our knowledge What if we lose all of them? to be given to parishioners in to manifest and infestation who arrogantly roamed our normal days. What of the doctrine of our faith, I do not want to let this pass. need. Voucher from Caritas prevalent, a dangerous period. around, contaminated every matters is that we put love and at achieving a stronger I was so shocked to learn that Manila and Caritas Kalookan It is now Day 14 from the time person he met including for God in doing them. And unity of life, where there is our government hospitals are also distributed to those quarantine started. Do not go the medical personnel in a since they are more coherence between our procured substandard in the peripheries of society. out or you risk your life and hospital, violated the law relatively easier tasks to faith and our life, between PPEs; the front-liners I Feeding continues. that of the elderly in your that he passed as a legislator, undertake, then we have our good intentions and our talked to said “ok na po ang Online Masses and Lenten family. Our God is so merciful. knowing that the penalty is a golden opportunity of deeds, between the theories substandard PPEs kaysa Recollections can be viewed Let us pray for the immediate imprisonment and fine and attaining some degree of and principles we profess and wala” (Substandard PPEs are through the effort of Social eradication of Covid-19 as public official, he can be sanctity in an easier way. their practice, etc. ok, rather than no PPEs at Communications Ministry of and for the scientists and disqualified from office. A But more importantly, With respect to our life all), another corrupt practice every parish. Some parishes experts to discover antidotes, person who violates curfew these extraordinary of prayer, we should learn discovered; but we will discuss brought out the Blessed medicines and vaccines. Let hours are arrested, detained conditions we are having how to really be focused this in normal times, when this Sacrament and blessed every us pray that the front-liners be and fined. The law must be now are a good opportunity in our conversation with pandemic is over. houses and buildings along shielded from COVID-19 and enforced equally, irrespective to really deepen our prayer God, knowing how to avoid *** the way. for the patients to be cured. of status in life. He must life and everything in our distractions and how to The Church never stops *** Let us pray for courage of the face the full force of the law. spiritual life which, in the equip ourselves adequately giving aids even during Our hospitals are full, they families of the front-liners, Nobody is above the law. end, is what would endure for so that our prayer becomes lockdown. Many dioceses can no longer accommodate patients and those who died. Dura lex, sed lex. The law is all eternity. meaningful and substantial. distribute rice and groceries patients. The best is stay at Eternal rest be granted unto hard, but that is the law. We cannot deny that There are many good things because of the usual frenetic that can be done during these And That’s The Truth / A4 lifestyle these days—some extraordinary days, many of us would even describe it golden opportunities that can from your family in case COVID claims ourselves to embrace His will. It is not safety. Is that world all that you were as having a fast and furious be taken advantage of. you suddenly. “I will focus on a vision and you will born to love? Be Humble: Especially when praying, give me the perfect world I want, God, Be Truthful: Now you see the deadly Inside Out / A5 humility is the best stance. In late thank you.” corona is no respecter of persons. Prince February a “prayer” went around in Be Introspective: Isn’t it ironic that and pauper are equal in COVID’s eyes. being undeserving, we can churches or the mass. We social media asking to be forwarded. the quarantine period for our country Age, race, social standing, these things discover that God does not can’t escape the feeling that “At 9:00pm TONIGHT...everyone began in Lent? “Quarantine” comes matter not to a killer virus. Even healers measure our worth by worldly we cannot please God without is asked to please join for THREE from the Latin “quadraginta”and the cannot heal themselves by simply willing standards. He loves our our physical presence in the MINUTES to pray for transformation of Italian “quaranta”, both meaning it. You realize the pandemic could take weakness and dependence on church at mass or in our the Corona virus situation in the world. ”40”. Lent commemorates Christ’s you or anyone else anytime, but how him, no matter how society devotions. Underneath our Visualize and ask for healing anointing 40 days in the wilderness, and is a ready are you? Be truthful. Behind your looks at us. good intentions there are and energy like rain to fall and soak period supposedly devoted to fasting, bravest words, you are afraid. You are “I’m afraid there won’t be sometimes wounds that God every inch of land in the world. All flu abstinence, and penitence. Paging not ready, but truth stares you in the face enough for me”: In these wants to heal. One wound virus, coronavirus and pneumonia- forgetful Christians! How lucky can that your life is not in your hands. Your past weeks, many of us have that many of us carry is the like illness supernaturally die out by you be, followers of Christ? That even life was given to you as a gift; how did panicked out of fear that tendency to try to justify itself, evaporated and extinguished in a raging pandemic, you are helped? you live it? Who was in control? Did you we don’t have enough for ourselves before God—to do from the world. No more report of new Lent asks that you stay away from thank the Giver and give glory to Him by ourselves. We have stockpiled things “for” God so that we cases —visualize the feeling of relief parties and overeating, late nights and living it His way? Instead of obsessing and hoarded to ensure we can feel worthy of his love. and smiles amongst the medical people a lot of smooching, the very things yourself with staying alive, now, in Lent, have enough, emptying the Perhaps God wants us to and the public to shout out with victory COVID is warning us against. Imagine aspire to hand over the reins of your life shelves of essential items. sit with our feeling of guilt on their faces, saying thank You God your disappointment if the quarantine to the Creator. Count the many times In some supermarkets there so that he can show us how for Your love, grace and mercy that fell on the season you call Christmas! you’ve said “Why are people hurting me have been fights over toilet generous he really is. The everything will begin to be back to Lent to a growing number of you when I’ve done nothing wrong?” Stop paper. Often those who are truth is that we cannot do normal.” I received that “prayer” from has been reduced to local tourism, lying to yourself. Admit that you need weaker are less likely to be anything for God. Rather, he Christians and devout Catholics; what holidays out of town during the Holy forgiveness, and to forgive as well. For able to fend for themselves. wants to do something for a shame. Not to put down visualization Week, my eye! Perhaps COVID’s once, accept the truth that without God, When we sit with ourselves in us. He is the giver. Maybe techniques, per se, but this “prayer” is quarantine is heaven sent after all. As you are nothing. Your trophies, your silence, God can minister to this is a time for us to sit and simply presumptuous and takes too a recent poster says, “If you can’t go honorifics and the titles tailing your our fears and assure us that receive. much for granted. “Back to normal”? outside, go inside.” Be introspective. name, your victories, your amorous he is the Good Shepherd who Let us enter into this What was normal before COVID? Go into your thoughts, your fears. conquests, your Facebook friends—none will tend to his flock. We can silence together as one flock, Greed among world powers? Ignorance Reflect on your core values. Examine of these can add a minute to your life relax because even when we discovering how broken among the poor? Complacency of your world view. In all probability, when your time has come. The truth is, have nothing, there is enough and needy we are, and how the elite? Indifference of the middle before COVID, your world never went all that is yours to control now is the turn to go around. good our Shepherd is. In class? Prayer is not magic. Be humble! farther than your horizon cemented by you want your life to take should you “God will not forgive me for this silence let us hold in our Prayer is standing naked before God, your desires, your possessions, your survive the pandemic. Meanwhile, you not being in church”: Some hearts our broken and needy acknowledging our nothingness, loved ones, your dreams, your plans, can’t die from being kind and learning of us are struggling most world, especially the sick and humbly obeying His word and disposing your prayers for your comfort and to love as God loves. with not having access to our dying. A8 PEOPLE, FACTS, AND PLACES March 30 - April 12, 2020, Vol 24, No. 7 CBCP Monitor Church marks special day of prayer for Covid-19 medical frontliners THE Catholic Bishops’ articulated in our introduction Conference of the Philippines to the masses, homilies, led a “Day of Prayer” for the prayers of the faithful, and medical frontliners against intentions in our rosaries and coronavirus, as 12 doctors holy hour. have died from the disease. “Of course we continue Parish churches across the praying our Oratio Imperata,” country offered their Masses Valles added. on March 29 for the protection He said that among of health workers battling the the support to healthcare virus. workers the Church can In a circular issued March offer is reminding the people 27, Archbishop Romulo to “cooperate” with the Valles, CBCP President, quarantine measures imposed invited all the dioceses to by the government. offer prayers for the country’s Valles also asked the health workers on the fifth dioceses to open their facilities Sunday of Lent. as temporary shelters for “We do this in all our hospital workers who are Masses, our Rosaries, during hesitant to go home for fear of our Holy Hour, and in our transmitting the virus to their moments of personal prayer,” families. he said. The CBCP head was acting Valles said it’s up to each on reports that some medical diocese and its parishes to workers have been shunned concretize the general call to by their landlords for the risk prayer in their liturgies and that come with their job. pastoral activities. “May our prayer move us to He said this may be action,” he said. (CBCPNews) Camillian missionaries hold a medical mission for the street dwellers who are housed at the Dela Salle University in Manila March 31. PHOTO FROM THE CAMILLIANS Pope names new auxiliary On Palm Sunday, priests urged to bless in the streets bishop of Zamboanga ON Palm Sunday, priests recommended that priests can go around the streets can go around the streets of to bless the palms carried the parish to bless the palms by the faithful who wait in of the faithful who wait in their homes, the Catholic front of their homes, “without hierarchy said. using holy water”. The Catholic Bishops’ The CBCP warned that Conference of the the blessing with holy water Philippines (CBCP) “might cause commotion”. published guidelines on “The priest makes the sign March 21 for bishops and of the cross as he passes priests on the celebration through the streets,” part of of the Holy Week during the the circular reads, as “the coronavirus pandemic. Lector reads the Passion In a circular, the CBCP Narrative along the way”. stated that the faithful The CBCP also suggested to A priest blesses the palms with holy water at the start of Palm Sunday Mass at the who will be following the parishes to use sound system Ina ng Awa Parish, New Bilibid Prison Reservation, Muntinlupa City, March 23, 2018. celebration online or on TV to make people aware that JOHANN MANGUSSAD may hold their palm branches the priest is passing by. Jerusalem, only to be CBCP President, stressed while the priest passes along “All of these must be crucified later by the very that “social distancing” is and recites the prayer of done with only two to three people who welcomed him. a “necessity” in this time Auxiliary bishop-elect Moises Cuevas of Zamboanga. PASTOR BONUS SEMINARY blessing of palms. ministers to accompany Popular traditions include of pandemic to stem the “In this case, those who the priests. This is to avoid processions with palm transmission of the virus. POPE Francis has appointed He was ordained a priest for follow the celebration on gathering of people,” the branches and the blessing He said that the CBCP Fr. Moises Cuevas as the Zamboanga archdiocese TV, there is no need for Holy CBCP suggested. of palms. guidelines aims “to keep a auxiliary bishop of on Dec. 6, 2000. Water to bless the Palm This year’s Palm Sunday Several bishops across balance” of the centrality of Zamboanga. He then carried out the branches,” the Catholic falls on April 5, which is the country have already the Paschal Triduum and In his new role, the following ministries: Bishops’ Conference of the a commemoration of suspended public Masses and the demands of the measure 46-year-old bishop-elect will • Parish vicar of the Philippines said. Jesus Christ’s humble other religious activities. to prevent the spread of the assist the current archbishop Metropolitan Cathedral of After the Mass, the CBCP and triumphant entry to Archbishop Romulo Valles, disease. (CBCPNews) of Zamboanga, Archbishop the Immaculate Conception Romulo Dela Cruz. of Zamboanga (2001-2003) The appointment was made • Rector of the sanctuary Duterte declares Nat’l Week of Prayer against COVID-19 crisis public in Rome on March 19, Nostra Signora del Pilar at 12 noon in Rome (7:00 (2003-2009) PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte afflicted with COVID-19, and for p.m. local time). • Chancellor of the has declared a “national week of the frontliners in the fight against Upon his appointment, Archdiocese of Zamboanga prayer” as the country battles the pandemic. Cuevas has been serving (2003-2009) coronavirus crisis. Bishop Ruperto Santos of Balanga as the parish priest of the • Administrator of the After a declaring a nationwide has welcomed the initiative, saying Immaculate Conception Pastoral Center (2005-2007) state of calamity, he urged Filipinos that “we have to pray unceasingly Cathedral in Zamboanga City. • Parish priest of the to turn to God in prayer in this time and return to Him all the praise and Born in Batangas City, the parish of Santa Maria of “affliction”. glory which are rightly His”. new bishop too his philosophy (2009-2015) In his Proclamation no. 934, “We should not only pray but studies at the Pastor Bonus Since 2017, Cuevas Duterte announced that moments much more honor God. God should Seminary in Zamboanga City has also been serving as of prayer would be taking place on never be mocked nor make fun of. and theology at the Regional director of the archdiocese’s the fourth week of March. All of us should always respect Major Seminary in Davao Commission on the Clergy. He particularly asked Filipinos God, and one’s religion,” he said. City. (CBCPNews) of all faith to pray for those (CBCPNews) President Rodrigo Duterte. MALACAÑANG PHOTO Cardinal Tagle, in new position, looks for lessons learned in lockdown

VATICAN— Starting a new Peoples) close to them, since of the Vatican’s office for around the world. A few of the things he said reason for it. We should be job always involves a learning their countries and dioceses evangelization, he said he How doing both at the same he’s reflected on include: cautious that the lockdown, curve, but Filipino Cardinal are served by this dicastery.” is seeing great potential time works out is something The fact that with such quarantine and distancing Luis Antonio Tagle got much The cardinal concelebrates for sharing the Gospel in he said will be evaluated a huge interruption of the not develop into a culture of more than he bargained for Mass each morning with what Catholics, their priests, as time goes on, but “most global economy, “new forms isolation, indifference and when he moved to Rome in the resident priests and, parishes and bishops are of the countries served by of poverty will emerge. We prejudice.” February to begin his duties each Sunday, he serves doing with social media in the the Congregation for the should prepare now to assist “Ironically,” measures to as prefect of the Congregation as the principal celebrant absence of in-person Masses Evangelization of Peoples the new poor in order to contain the coronavirus have for the Evangelization of and homilist for a Mass and meetings. are the same countries avoid forms of exploitation “made the air purer, the skies Peoples. livestreamed on Facebook With local parish activities where Caritas has a vibrant and violence. The outpouring bluer, our hands cleaner, our Not only did he have a and followed by thousands on hold, “I am fascinated with missionary presence.” of compassion that we have streets and homes ‘safer.’ new position after being of Filipinos around the world. the renewed appreciation of “We should not forget seen so far needs to be A deadly virus has made us the archbishop of Manila “Coming to Rome for a the role of families, schools that in many parts of the encouraged into the post- behave more responsibly for almost nine years, his universal mission at a and small communities in world, especially among pandemic future.” toward ourselves, family, first month coincided with time when the lockdown evangelization,” the cardinal non-Christian communities, “We have experienced community and creation. the start of Italy’s lockdown occurs — I am still in awe said. “Liturgy, ordained the humanitarian service powerful forms of I hope when the virus is and global travel restrictions at the surprises of God,” the ministry and popular of charity done by Caritas connectivity through the gone, our good habits would because of the coronavirus cardinal said April 1 in an religiosity are also being is often the first encounter internet. School instruction, continue.” pandemic. email response to questions. reimagined but with a more of people with the person conferences, board meetings, With the churches closed, Cardinal Tagle is living the “I bring this paradox missionary thrust.” of Jesus, the Gospel and scientific exchange, many people are realizing lockdown — and working to reflection and prayer,” He and the congregation the church,” he said. emotional first aid, humor, just how important faith mostly from home — at he said. “The situation is staff have taken note, he said. “Evangelization and charity artistic renditions, prayer and prayer are in their lives. Rome’s Pontifical Filipino reeducating me about the Cardinal Tagle’s work- come together.” etc. have been sustained “A virus mirrored to us our College where, he said, “I dynamic tension between the from-home regime applies And while it is necessary by new and creative forms fragility, limitations and feel safe and supported by a local and the universal.” not only to his new role as and good to focus on the of human connectivity. We insufficiency. This is quite community of Filipino, Asian Global reaction to congregation prefect, but pandemic right now, he can continue reaping and humiliating for a people gone and African young priests the pandemic has shown also to his continuing service said, at the same time “we developing their humanizing mad with pride and self- studying in Rome. I hope my “opportunities for worldwide as president of Caritas should reflect and pray over fruits for the common good.” adulation. But the memory of presence among them also collaboration but also threats Internationalis, the Vatican- the experience to find its “We might get used to the virus must be kept alive to makes the CEP (Congregation to solidarity,” he said. based umbrella organization meaning for us now and in physical distancing and lose keep us humble and hopeful.” for the Evangelization of And, as the chief-in-charge for national Catholic charities the future.” the social or humanitarian (Cindy Wooden) CBCP Monitor March 30 - April 12, 2020 Vol. 24 No 7 PASTORAL CONCERNS B1

Pope Francis leads a prayer service in an empty St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican March 27, 2020. At the conclusion of the service the pope held the Eucharist as he gave an extraordinary blessing “urbi et orbi” (to the city and the world). The service was livestreamed in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic. CNS/VATICAN MEDIA ‘Faith begins when we realize we are in need of salvation’ Extraordinary moment of prayer and “Urbi et Orbi” Blessing presided over by Pope Francis Sagrato of St. Peter’s Basilica 27 March 2020

“WHEN evening had come” care: they think that Jesus is not shaken awake by wars or injustice the priestly prayer of Jesus: “That listen to the proclamation that saves (Mk 4:35). The Gospel passage we interested in them, does not care across the world, nor did we listen they may all be one” (Jn 17:21). How us: he is risen and is living by our have just heard begins like this. about them. One of the things that to the cry of the poor or of our ailing many people every day are exercising side. The Lord asks us from his cross For weeks now it has been evening. hurts us and our families most planet. We carried on regardless, patience and offering hope, taking to rediscover the life that awaits us, Thick darkness has gathered over when we hear it said is: “Do you not thinking we would stay healthy in care to sow not panic but a shared to look towards those who look to us, our squares, our streets and our care about me?” It is a phrase that a world that was sick. Now that we responsibility. How many fathers, to strengthen, recognize and foster cities; it has taken over our lives, wounds and unleashes storms in our are in a stormy sea, we implore you: mothers, grandparents and teachers the grace that lives within us. Let us filling everything with a deafening hearts. It would have shaken Jesus “Wake up, Lord!”. are showing our children, in small not quench the wavering flame (cf. silence and a distressing void, too. Because he, more than anyone, “Why are you afraid? Have you everyday gestures, how to face up Is 42:3) that never falters, and let us that stops everything as it passes cares about us. Indeed, once they no faith?” Lord, you are calling to and navigate a crisis by adjusting allow hope to be rekindled. by; we feel it in the air, we notice have called on him, he saves his to us, calling us to faith. Which their routines, lifting their gaze and Embracing his cross means in people’s gestures, their glances disciples from their discouragement. is not so much believing that fostering prayer. How many are finding the courage to embrace give them away. We find ourselves The storm exposes our you exist, but coming to you and praying, offering and interceding all the hardships of the present afraid and lost. Like the disciples vulnerability and uncovers those trusting in you. This Lent your for the good of all. Prayer and quiet time, abandoning for a moment in the Gospel we were caught off false and superfluous certainties call reverberates urgently: “Be service: these are our victorious our eagerness for power and guard by an unexpected, turbulent around which we have constructed converted!”, “Return to me with weapons. possessions in order to make room storm. We have realized that we are our daily schedules, our projects, our all your heart” (Joel 2:12). You are “Why are you afraid? Have you no for the creativity that only the Spirit on the same boat, all of us fragile habits and priorities. It shows us how calling on us to seize this time of trial faith”? Faith begins when we realize is capable of inspiring. It means and disoriented, but at the same we have allowed to become dull and as a time of choosing. It is not the we are in need of salvation. We are finding the courage to create spaces time important and needed, all of feeble the very things that nourish, time of your judgement, but of our not self-sufficient; by ourselves we where everyone can recognize that us called to row together, each of sustain and strengthen our lives and judgement: a time to choose what founder: we need the Lord, like they are called, and to allow new us in need of comforting the other. our communities. The tempest lays matters and what passes away, a ancient navigators needed the stars. forms of hospitality, fraternity and On this boat… are all of us. Just bare all our prepackaged ideas and time to separate what is necessary Let us invite Jesus into the boats of solidarity. By his cross we have been like those disciples, who spoke forgetfulness of what nourishes from what is not. It is a time to our lives. Let us hand over our fears saved in order to embrace hope and anxiously with one voice, saying our people’s souls; all those get our lives back on track with to him so that he can conquer them. let it strengthen and sustain all “We are perishing” (v. 38), so we attempts that anesthetize us with regard to you, Lord, and to others. Like the disciples, we will experience measures and all possible avenues too have realized that we cannot go ways of thinking and acting that We can look to so many exemplary that with him on board there will for helping us protect ourselves on thinking of ourselves, but only supposedly “save” us, but instead companions for the journey, who, be no shipwreck. Because this is and others. Embracing the Lord in together can we do this. prove incapable of putting us in even though fearful, have reacted by God’s strength: turning to the good order to embrace hope: that is the It is easy to recognize ourselves touch with our roots and keeping giving their lives. This is the force of everything that happens to us, even strength of faith, which frees us in this story. What is harder to alive the memory of those who the Spirit poured out and fashioned the bad things. He brings serenity from fear and gives us hope. understand is Jesus’ attitude. have gone before us. We deprive in courageous and generous self- into our storms, because with God “Why are you afraid? Have While his disciples are quite ourselves of the antibodies we need denial. It is the life in the Spirit that life never dies. you no faith”? Dear brothers and naturally alarmed and desperate, to confront adversity. can redeem, value and demonstrate The Lord asks us and, in the sisters, from this place that tells of he stands in the stern, in the part of In this storm, the façade of how our lives are woven together midst of our tempest, invites us to Peter’s rock-solid faith, I would like the boat that sinks first. And what those stereotypes with which we and sustained by ordinary people— reawaken and put into practice that this evening to entrust all of you to does he do? In spite of the tempest, camouflaged our egos, always often forgotten people—who do solidarity and hope capable of giving the Lord, through the intercession he sleeps on soundly, trusting in worrying about our image, has not appear in newspaper and strength, support and meaning to of Mary, Health of the People and the Father; this is the only time in fallen away, uncovering once more magazine headlines nor on the these hours when everything seems Star of the stormy Sea. From this the Gospels we see Jesus sleeping. that (blessed) common belonging, grand catwalks of the latest show, to be floundering. The Lord awakens colonnade that embraces Rome When he wakes up, after calming of which we cannot be deprived: our but who without any doubt are in so as to reawaken and revive our and the whole world, may God’s the wind and the waters, he turns belonging as brothers and sisters. these very days writing the decisive Easter faith. We have an anchor: by blessing come down upon you as to the disciples in a reproaching “Why are you afraid? Have you events of our time: doctors, nurses, his cross we have been saved. We a consoling embrace. Lord, may voice: “Why are you afraid? Have no faith?” Lord, your word this supermarket employees, cleaners, have a rudder: by his cross we have you bless the world, give health to you no faith?” (v. 40). evening strikes us and regards us, caregivers, providers of transport, been redeemed. We have a hope: our bodies and comfort our hearts. Let us try to understand. In all of us. In this world, that you love law and order forces, volunteers, by his cross we have been healed You ask us not to be afraid. Yet our what does the lack of the disciples’ more than we do, we have gone priests, religious men and women and embraced so that nothing and faith is weak and we are fearful. But faith consist, as contrasted with ahead at breakneck speed, feeling and so very many others who have no one can separate us from his you, Lord, will not leave us at the Jesus’ trust? They had not stopped powerful and able to do anything. understood that no one reaches redeeming love. In the midst of mercy of the storm. Tell us again: believing in him; in fact, they called Greedy for profit, we let ourselves salvation by themselves. In the isolation when we are suffering from “Do not be afraid” (Mt 28:5). And on him. But we see how they call get caught up in things, and lured face of so much suffering, where a lack of tenderness and chances to we, together with Peter, “cast all on him: “Teacher, do you not care away by haste. We did not stop at the authentic development of our meet up, and we experience the loss our anxieties onto you, for you care if we perish?” (v. 38). Do you not your reproach to us, we were not peoples is assessed, we experience of so many things, let us once again about us” (cf. 1 Pet 5:7). B2 UPDATES March 30 - April 12, 2020 Vol. 24 No 7 CBCP Monitor FEATURE General absolution in the COVID-19 pandemic no change in the Canonical Norm By Jaime B. Achacoso, JCD

I READ the recent Note from that the confessions of the faithful the Apostolic Penitentiary on entrusted to their care be heard the Sacrament of Reconciliation when they reasonably ask to be in the current pandemic, dated heard and that the opportunity be 20.III.2020, which seems to relax given to them to come to individual the provisions for the administration confession on days and hours set for of the Sacrament of Penance— their convenience. In fact, this is a specifically granting the faculty to fundamental right of the faithful and impart collective absolution without a serious duty of justice of the sacred prior individual confession. Is this pastors (cf. cc.213 and 843).” the right interpretation of this Note? I have dealt with this matter General Absolution has an repeatedly in the past, but it is good to Exceptional Character with briefly review the existing canonical Stringent Conditions for the norms. The aforementioned Note Exception from the Apostolic Penitentiary The Response pointed out (20.III.2020) in fact starts with that “John Paul II had expressly this brief review. We can quote an underscored this exceptional older Response from the Pontifical character: The reconciliation of Council for the Interpretation of several penitents through general Legislative Texts—with Prot. No. confession and absolution, hold an 5309/96 and dated 8.XI.1996— exceptional nature and hence cannot which, in terms of authority, takes be left to free choice, but should precedence over this recent Note. be regulated by norms instituted for this purpose (Apost. Exhort. Individual and Integral Reconciliatio et Paenitentia, Confession and Absolution AAS, LXXVII, 1985, p.267).” It then is the Only Ordinary Way for summarized the present norms as Serious Sins to be forgiven follows: Can. 960 states: Individual and Can. 961, §1, nn.1°-2°, presenting A confessional booth at the Manila Cathedral. FILE PHOTO integral confession and absolution the extraordinary way of collective immediately afterwards. In practice, Himself on the Criteria set by own judgment, may decide on the constitute the only ordinary way by absolution, taxatively establishes they should not be responsible, the Episcopal Conference existence of the three simultaneous which the faithful, who is aware of two conditions that indicate the through negligence, of their actual The Response also assures that conditions for a state of necessity serious sin, is reconciled with God only cases in which such absolution loss of the state of grace or of the the exceptional nature of general that warrants general absolution and with the Church; only physical is licit: impossibility of receiving Holy absolution cannot be trivialized without individual confession. or moral impossibility excuses the 1° danger of death threatens Communion (sine propria culpa) so as to become ordinary. Thus, “The Supreme Legislator, in his person from confession of this type, (immineat periculum mortis) and that such situation is expected it reminds everyone that “ c.961, pronouncements, has adverted in which case reconciliation can take and there is no time for the priest to be prolonged.” §2 establishes that it is up to the many times the delicateness of place in other ways. or priests to hear the confessions of In other words, three conditions diocesan bishop to determine in a this norm and has many times Can.961, §1 states a general the individual penitents. (This is a must actually concur: a scarcity concrete case, in the light of criteria appealed to the responsibility of the prohibition: Absolution cannot be reference to the original motive for of priests, a great number of agreed upon with other members Pastors of the dioceses as regards its imparted in a general manner to a the concession of general absolution penitents, and the faithful have of the conference of bishops, if the observance. number of penitents at once without in the conflictive period of the two not had nor have the possibility of conditions for imparting general “Already Paul VI (…) had said: previous individual confession, World Wars). confessing individually beforehand absolution are verified. Therefore, Ordinaries are not authorized to unless…. 2° there exists a grave necessity or immediately afterwards. the diocesan bishop, in concrete change the required conditions, “The canon sanctions the (adsit gravis necessitas). The “Nevertheless, the gathering cases and in the light of the criteria to substitute other conditions for obligation of individual confession, state of necessity, the canon explains, of a great number of faithful of fixed by the Episcopal Conference, those given, or to determine grave with the accompanying absolution, exists when the number of penitents itself does not justify collective has the role of verifying the presence necessity according to their personal as the only ordinary way for and the scarcity of priests causes the absolution. For this reason, the same or otherwise of the conditions criteria, however worthy” (AAS, obtaining reconciliation with God faithful, through no fault of theirs, to canonical norm specifies that: it is established by the Code of Canon LXX, 1978, p.330). and with the Church. Such ordinary be deprived for a notable length of not considered a sufficient necessity Law. He cannot establish the criteria “John Paul II had confirmed this way is qualified as pertaining to time of the sacramental grace or of if confessors cannot be readily and does not in any way have the serious duty: Therefore, it pertains Divine Law by the Council of Trent Holy Communion. available only because of the great power to modify, add to or remove to the Bishop alone, within the (cf. DS 1707). “In order for such serious number of penitents as can occur from the conditions established in limits of his diocese, to determine “The duty sanctioned in c.960 is necessity to exist, two elements must on the occasion of some great feast the Code and the criteria agreed whether the conditions really exist… complemented and confirmed by concur: first, a scarcity of priests or pilgrimage.” upon with the other members of the he makes this judgment graviter the norm established in c.986, §1 and a great number of penitents; Episcopal Conference. onerata conscientia and with that states: All to whom the care secondly, that the faithful do not Only the Bishop can determine In other words, other than full observance of the law and of souls is committed by reason have or have not had the possibility in a Concrete Case if a Grave the obvious situation of imminent praxis of the Church and taking of an office are obliged to provide of confessing beforehand or Necessity exists: He must base danger of death, no priest, on his Absolution / B7 Chapter and verse of the readings: Some reasons why they aren’t announced Father Edward McNamara, professor of liturgy and sacramental theology and director of the Sacerdos Institute at the Regina Apostolorum university, answers the following query: Q: Recently I have been asked to introduces the Liturgy of the Word explain why the reader at Mass in the following manner: doesn’t say the chapter and verses “For the Epistle, the priest sings: from where the reading is taken Let us be attentive. from, for a given reading during (The Reader reads the verses from Mass. I have been trying to check the Psalms.) through whatever document I can The Deacon: ‘Wisdom.’ find for reference, but so far I have Reader: The reading is from found none stating it as a rule or (the name of the book of the New even just mentioning the practice. Testament from which the Apostolic — C.M., Lusaka, Zambia reading is taken). Deacon: Let us be attentive. A: I would say that there are several (The Reader reads the text) reasons why announcing the chapter Priest: Peace be with you. and verse does not generally form People: Alleluia. Alleluia. Alleluia. part of liturgical tradition, whether Priest (in a low voice): Shine Catholic or Orthodox. As far as I within our hearts, loving Master, the can ascertain, Anglican services do pure light of Your divine knowledge include the announcement of chapter and open the eyes of our minds and verse before the readings. that we may comprehend the The first reason, I would say, is that message of your Gospel. Instill in the liturgical rituals for proclaiming us, also, reverence for Your blessed the readings were established long commandments, so that having before the introduction of chapter conquered sinful desires, we may and verse into the Bible. When pursue a spiritual life, thinking preaching, the Church Fathers say, and doing all those things that are “As John says somewhere …” or “As pleasing to You. For You, Christ our Ezekiel prophesies regarding the God, are the light of our souls and temple …,” as numerical references Pope Francis celebrates Mass in the chapel of his residence, the Domus Sanctae Marthae, at the Vatican on Jan. 30, 2020. VATICAN MEDIA bodies, and to You, we give glory did not exist. together with Your Father who is The introduction of chapters to the Rabbi Isaac Nathan ben Kalonymus, and until relatively recent times the introductions are geared more without beginning and Your all- Bible was made by Cardinal Stephen which in turn was based on a much readings were proclaimed in Latin, toward fostering an attitude of holy, good, and life-giving Spirit, Langton, archbishop of Canterbury older system of division used for the division into chapter and verse was attentive listening in the faithful now and forever and to the ages of (1150-1228). It was probably done study and cantillation of the sacred never incorporated into the liturgy. than in imparting information. This ages. Amen.” while he was a professor at the text in the Jewish community. A second reason is that the Roman is quite sober in the Roman rite even The introductory rites for the University of Paris in the years This concordance was first printed Catholic Church often selects though the Gospel proclamation Gospel proclamation follow: 1204-1205, so as to bring some in 1523, and its system became and abridges texts for liturgical is prefaced with the greeting and “Priest: Wisdom. Arise. Let us hear uniformity in teaching Scriptures standard. proclamation in order to transmit response “The Lord be with you. the holy Gospel. Peace be with all. to students who hailed from all Although he was not the first a particular message adapted to the – And with your spirit” underling People: And with your spirit. over Europe. These chapters were person to divide the New Testament day while leaving out some verses. that the communication comes from Deacon: The reading is from the later substantially adopted in the into verses, the modern system was For example, on Sunday, February Christ. It is a living word that is holy Gospel according to (Name). first printed versions of the Latin introduced by scholar and printer 23, 2020, the first reading was experienced and not just a “reading” Let us be attentive. Vulgate. Robert Estienne (1503-1559) in from Leviticus 19:1-2 and 17-18, or text to be used as a starting point People: Glory to You, O Lord, glory Verses were introduced later, after his 1551 edition of the Greek New the first verses introducing and for preaching. to You. the invention of the printing press. Testament, a French version in 1553 contextualizing the second. This The Eastern liturgies tend to (The Deacon reads the designated For the Old Testament, the division and the Latin Vulgate in 1555. practice would make for rather emphasize this reality much more Gospel.) was based on a 1440 concordance Since the cycle of readings and the awkward proclamations. strongly. For example, the widely People: Glory to You, O Lord, glory of the Hebrew Bible prepared by introductory rituals already existed, A third reason is that the liturgical used Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom to You.” UPDATES CBCP Monitor March 30 - April 12, 2020 Vol. 24 No 7 FEATURE B3 Recommendations for the Celebrations of the Holy Week During the Qarantine Period Circular No. 20-15 their homes. March 20, 2020 Someone may read repeatedly the Gospel Narrative of the Last Supper, during the procession. TO ALL THE BISHOPS AND THE

DIOCESAN ADMINISTRATORS VI. Good Friday Veneration of the Cross We offer our faithful reflections on the Your Eminences, Your Excellencies and Passion of the Lord through TV, internet and Reverend Administrators, radio, before the Celebration of the Veneration of the Cross. RE: Recommendations for the Please refer to our previous instructions on Celebrations of the Holy Week During the proper way of veneration of the Cross. the Quarantine Period (2020) After the Commemoration of the Lord’s

Passion, without the faithful, the presider “The greatest mysteries of the redemption in red cope or red stole over a surplice and are celebrated yearly by the Church beginning cassock, rides a pick up vehicle as he carries a with the evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper Crucifix and goes to all the the streets of the on Holy Thursday until Vespers of Easter parish. Sunday. This time is called “the Triduum People with lighted candles wait in front of of the crucified, buried and risen”, it is also their homes to venerate the Cross by kneeling called the “Easter Triduum” because during down. it is celebrated the Paschal Mystery, that is,

the passing of the Lord from this world to VII. Easter Vigil his Father. The church by the celebration We celebrate the Easter vigil following the of this mystery, through liturgical signs liturgy prescribed in the Roman Missal. One and sacramentals, is united to Christ her may reduce the number of readings as allowed Spouse in intimate communion” (Paschales by the Missal. We celebrate this Vigil as the Solemnitatis no. 38). Mother of all Vigils, leading our people to The annual celebration of the Paschal Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle washes the feet of a young person during the Holy Thursday Mass of the Lord’s Supper at the Manila greater hope in the victory of Risen Lord who Triduum is the apex and heart of the whole Cathedral on April 18, 2019. ROY LAGARDE conquered sin and death. In the experience of liturgical year. This is greatly manifested in the II. Again we enjoin all to keep the prescribed by. The Lector also reads the Passion Narrative the pandemic, the Resurrection of the Lord is way we celebrate the Holy Week as Filipinos social distancing, hygiene protocols and along the way. All of these must be done with the certainty of our victory. full of faith, life and color. All our parishes take sanitation of our spaces for the liturgy. only two to three ministers to accompany the The number of needed ministers needs to be time to prepare for these great celebrations. III. It is beneficial for the people to follow priests. This is to avoid gathering of people. regulated also for this celebration, including Filipinos abroad long to be back to the country the live streaming of the celebrations. Every the choir. If there will be Baptism, only the during this time to experience the life and diocese is encouraged to live stream their V. Holy Thursday parents and God-parents should be inside beauty of the mysteries we celebrate therein. celebrations. The online celebrations should A. Chrism Mass the Church. Our national life is truly influenced by these also aim at generating an affinity of the faithful Each Local Ordinary needs to discern on After the Easter Vigil Celebration, without the great celebrations. to the local Church. The importance of the the day and the place of the Chrism Mass. faithful, the presider with humeral veil, rides In this time of Intense Quarantine due domestic/family church stands out during The decision must be done considering the on a pick up carrying the Blessed Sacrament in to the spread of the COVID-19, almost this time. Like the early Church which was a recommendations of the Civil and Health monstrance, goes around the parish. everything and everyone is affected. Our “Domus Ecclesiae” a domestic/family church authorities. The parishioners with lighted candles may social, economic and religious life are painfully our families will come together to celebrate the The celebration will be simplified because bring at the door or windows of their homes hit by the “social distancing” that is a necessity great mysteries of our faith uniting themselves of the absence of the faithful, the choir and the statue of the Blessed Mother. This becomes this time of pandemic to stem the transmission with the local Church through the celebrations other lay ministers. the Salubong of the parish this year. of the virus. transmitted though internet, tv or radio. Only the clergy will be allowed to be inside It is in this context that we are offering the Cathedral/church, observing social VIII. The Care of the Poor all our dioceses these liturgico-pastoral IV. Palm Sunday of the Lord’s distance, hygiene and sanitation of the space We need to create programs and systems that recommendations to keep a balance of the Passion: “Misa Sine Populo”.We propose for the liturgical celebration. will translate the effects of the Celebrations of centrality of the celebrations of the Paschal two options: The faithful can follow the celebration the Paschal Triduum in our care for the poor Triduum and the demands of the measures A. For the blessing of Palms, the faithful through the internet, TV or radio. among us. The journey of Lent that culminates to stem the transmission of the Covid-19. who will be following the celebration on TV B. Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper in Easter forms in us the new man and woman The balance has to be met in the one hand can hold their palm branches (or any available The Explanatory rite of the “Washing of the in the risen Lord. He strengthens us to live like of the essentials of the celebrations and on branch of leaves) while the prayer of blessing Feet” may be omitted or simplified (reduced him, giving oneself to love others especially the the other the accommodations due to the of Palms is prayed by the Presider. In this number of persons whose feet are washed). poor and the needy. There are many brothers precautions to stem the transmission of the case, those who follow the celebration on TV, The altar of repose will be set in the sacristy, and sisters of ours who are affected financially virus. there is no need for Holy Water to bless the a simple tabernacle where the Blessed by the long quarantine. I. We remind all priests that we will continue Palm branches. Sacrament may be reposed. Concrete actions must be done in this regard to celebrate the Holy Week and Paschal B. After the Mass the presider can go There is an option that after the Mass of in collaboration with our BEC leaders and Triduum even in the absence of our assembly. around the streets of the parish at a previously the Lord’s Supper, without the faithful, the communities. The celebrations will be simpler this year announced time, to bless the palms without priest with only two or three ministers, will because of the absence of our faithful but we using Holy Water, of the faithful who wait in carry the Blessed Sacrament in a Ciborium will make every effort to keep the dignity and front of their homes. The priest makes the sign with humeral veil, rides on a pick up vehicle Sincerely yours in Christ, solemnity of our celebrations by following of the cross as he passes through the streets. and goes to all the streets within the parish. the liturgical form by which the Church has The blessing with Holy Water might cause This becomes the Visita Iglesias of the faithful + ROMULO G. VALLES, D.D. entrusted to us these celebrations. This is in commotion. A loud speaker may be used to this year. Archbishop of Davao line with our directive in our previous circular. make people aware that the priest is passing People with lighted candles wait in front of President, CBCP Supplement to the Recommendations for Holy Week and Paschal Triduum Celebrations in Time of Covid-19

Circular No. 20-19 of the COVID-19 pandemic. We will refer to follow, in spirit, these celebrations; the blessing of their palm branches. these two documents as Vatican Guidelines. c. That these scheduled celebrations made 6. The Chrism Mass All these instructions on the liturgical available to the faithful should be LIVE a. Both Vatican Guidelines allow us this: celebrations of the Church during this time coverages. After thorough assessment of the situation of world crisis should help us find the balance 4. On our Previous Suggestion (cf. of the diocese in the face of the threat of between the worthy celebration of the liturgy CBCP Circular 20-15): For the presider Covid-19 and in compliance with the call of our of the Rites of Holy Week and the call of of the celebrations to go around the government and health authorities to avoid our health and civil authorities to help stem parish after every celebration whether mass gatherings, each bishop may transfer the rapid transmission of the Corona Virus to bless the Palms, bring the Blessed the Chrism Mass to another date when this Disease. Sacrament and the Cross: crisis has ended. Relative to the above, especially with the This should be considered with great b. Holy Oils: In this situation, if the diocese recent instructions from the Holy See, we have caution, having in mind not to give an will need new Chrism, the Bishop may this present Circular containing additional opportunity for our faithful to congregate consecrate some amount of Chrism. The Oil of observations and suggestions of Fr. Genaro outside their homes. In such a scenario, it the Sick may be blessed by each priest during Diwa, Executive Secretary of the Episcopal will be very difficult to implement the “social the celebration of the Anointing of the Sick, Commission on Liturgy, for the celebrations distancing” measure. Moreover, such a as the need arises. This is provided for in the of Holy Week and the Paschal Triduum: scenario will be in contradiction to the lock Rite of Anointing of the Sick. down and “stay at home” measures now 7. Holy Thursday: The Evening Mass On the Liturgical Celebrations of Holy enforced in many places. of the Lord’s Supper Week On this matter, close coordination with local a. Please refer to our previous Circular (cf. 1. Avoid Concelebrations: The recent government and health authorities should be CBCP Circular No. 20 – 15). Vatican Guidelines specifically instruct us to done. b. A Particular Note: The recent Vatican avoid concelebrations since our celebrations 5. Palm Sunday: Palm Sunday of the Guidelines say, “The faculty to celebrate Mass must also show our sincere efforts at avoiding Passion of the Lord on this day in a suitable place, without the the gathering of people. a. “The Commemoration of the Lord’s people, is granted in an exceptional manner Archbishop Romulo Valles, CBCP President. 2. Omitting the Sign of Peace: The Entrance into Jerusalem is to be celebrated to all priests.” recent Vatican Guidelines indicate “omitting within the church, the sacred building.” This means that each priest may celebrate the TO ALL THE BISHOPS AND THE DIOCESAN the sign of peace”. But we can still do the (Vatican Guidelines, March 25, 2020). Mass alone on this occasion. This is due to the ADMINISTRATORS giving of the sign of peace since in our recent b. The same Vatican Guidelines recommend intrinsic connection between the priesthood practice it is done now through the nodding the use of the “Second Form: Solemn Entrance” and the Eucharist, the anniversaries of which Your Eminences, Your Excellencies, and or bowing of the head. (cf. CBCP Circular No. for the Cathedral churches and the “Third are highlighted in the liturgical celebration of Reverend Administrators: 20-05, dated January 29, 2020: Discourage Form: Simple Entrance” for the Parish this evening. RE: Supplement to the Recommendations for our faithful from holding hands during the churches. However, we recommend upon 8. Good Friday: Friday of the Passion Holy Week and Paschal Triduum Celebrations singing/praying of the “Our Father” and closer study that we use the “Second Form: of the Lord in Time of Covid-19 shaking of hands during the Sign of Peace). Solemn Entrance” but in a modified way. a. Please refer to our previous Circular (cf. 3. The Vatican Guidelines emphasize Since the blessing of the palm branches is in CBCP Circular No. 20 – 15). THIS present Circular is a supplement to that all our Holy Week and Paschal this form, it may be used at the Entrance Rite b. The liturgy is the usual Liturgy of the our previous recommendations, Circulars Triduum Celebrations be made when the presider is already in the sanctuary. Friday of the Passion of the Lord found in the No. 20-14 and No. 20-15. At the same time, available to our faithful: c. When the faithful follow this celebration Roman Missal. the Congregation For Divine Worship and a. That the Holy Week and Paschal Triduum through radio, television, and social media, c. The recent Vatican Guidelines indicate Discipline of the Sacraments (CDWDS) has Celebrations should be brought to our faithful the blessing of their palms or any leaf branches that the Presider alone will do the kissing in also released two (2) Decrees/Instructions through radio, television, and social media; is imparted by the Scriptural Reading and the Veneration of the Cross. relevant to our Holy Week and Paschal b. That the schedules of these broadcasts Prayer of Blessing during the celebration. In d. In the Solemn Universal Prayers in this Triduum Liturgical Celebrations in the context should be known to our faithful so they can their homes there is no need for holy water for Supplement / B7 B4 FEATURE March 30 - April 12, 2020 Vol. 24 No 7 CBCP Monitor FEATURE Hope in the face of sickness and death WE, the consecrated people, have of St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican. The been trained to hope against Pope somehow kept the prophetic hope (Romans 4:18). And we words, “they shallknow that there are challenged to show this to was a prophet among them” (Ezek. people whom we have professed to 33:33). serve, especially in this time when You can do more like Fred, 40 this contagious pandemic called years old, who showed much hope in COVID-19 is threatening all of us. the prison cell for eight years, being We too are vulnerable and would accused of selling shabu, but was like to take precautions. acquitted for being falsely accused. As men and women of prayer, let He slept beside his fellow-inmate us pray that our government leaders, who had advanced tuberculosis. “We national and local, may find a way shared the same breath, but I did not to contain the rapid spread of the get tuberculosis. I do not think any virus and that our population as virus can infect me now.” Fred lost one Filipino people may cooperate his job as a laborer in a construction with the doctors, health workers and company. He has four children and military on the ground. a wife. His survival plan? “Simple As prophets and mystics of our lang po napulot kong aral sa loob, times, in cooperation with our kumapit sa Diyos na siyang pag- bishops and the clergy, we are asa.” (I learned a simple lesson in expected to show our solidarity prison, hold on to God who is hope.) and oneness with the poor who are bearing most the adverse impact Hope of the “enhanced community In these long days of uncertainty, quarantine.” They are the informal confusion and want, let the presence settlers, the daily-wage earners and of the members of the Association the marginalized, the homeless, the of Major Religious Superiors in street dwellers, the jeepney, bus the Philippines be a sign of God’s and tricycle drivers, the garbage presence of hope and love. Let Nuns from the Sisters of Charity of St. Charles Borromeo distribute food packs to poor households in Brgy. Francisco, Tagaytay City March 31. The nuns assigned collectors, and many others. They our inherent gift of fraternal joy at the congregation’s formation house cut their food allowance in order to provide aid to some families that have been hit hard by Covid-19 lockdown. CBCPNEWS are not far away from us. They as members of our congregations live near our convents. Our gift to be more contagious than the virus witnessing. sickness and untimely death, but For AMRSP, them is our prophetic witnessing – itself, to reverse the gloomy mood of We can now begin our healings will make us live and turn us into PRESENCE. our times. “Where there is sadness, by communicating our hope, persons and communities more Fr. Cielito R. Almazan, OFM let me sow joy.” This is precisely faith and charity, in the groceries, grateful to God who is our true hope Sr. Marilyn A. Java, RC Examples our vocation as prophets of our supermarkets and drug stores, and and salvation. Presence means being visible to times, to tell the world that the elsewhere and through the social Co-Chairpersons, Association of them in the streets, like the Pope downward trend can be reversed, media, as we await for the vaccines To God be the glory for ever and Major Religious Superiors in the walking in the empty street in front by our attitudes and authentic which we hope will protect us from ever. Amen. Philippines (AMRSP) Advocacy calls to plug the gaps in government response in COVID-19 pandemic crisis National Secretariat for Social Action/Caritas Philippines

part of the drive should be medically equipped. The government to must ensure the protection of the frontline workers by providing them the necessary gears and apparatuses for protection and also access to free transportation services. 6. Checkpoints must be supervised by health professionals who are trained to respond when there are cases of suspected COVID carriers. Remember that any potential carrier should NOT be treated like criminal offenders. We are confronting a health crisis, not a military problem. Extreme compassion should be exercised at all times. 7. Congress must appropriate additional funds for the response. To fund these initiatives, the existing calamity funds, MOOE of concerned government institutions including schools, courts, among others must be maximized. The interventions should not be debt-creating given that the government intends to access loans from international financial institutions. 8. A moratorium on payment of mortgages, interests on loans, and financial obligations including payment of utilities and household bills, waiving of rentals, and the like, should be enforced. Filipino families must be un-burdened with these obligations at a time when the preoccupation should be prevention, containment and treatment. 9. Community level citizens desks should be set up as a feedback, grievance, and action mechanism. Support must be prepared and provided for the psychosocial wellbeing of our fellow Filipinos, on an individual, family, and The Malate Catholic School Gymnasium in Manila was among the several Catholic schools that serve as a shelter for the street dwellers affected by the enhanced community quarantine due to COVID-19 outbreak. PHOTO FROM MCS community level, as this will be an urgent need in the coming days and AS the entire country has just organizations, in ensuring that of Intelligence Fund, Confidential displaced workers, called TUPAD weeks. been placed under the state of the welfare of all, particularly the Fund, President’s Social Fund, and or Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa 10. The Government should speak calamity due to the escalating poorest and the most vulnerable, other items in the GAA 2020 that Ating Disadvantaged and Displaced in a unified voice. If DOH is the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 is considered in government policy should be scrutinized for flexibility Workers must be implemented and lead agency that should oversee the (COVID-19), we offer our prayers for and interventions. as additional resources that can be made operational efficiently and enhanced lockdown, they must be our people, particularly the poor and We strongly call on our government mobilized immediately. should cover the entire affected the sole source for information and most vulnerable sectors, who will to consider the following points, to 2. Workers, especially daily income workforce. direction to avoid confusion and bear the heavier burden caused by plug the gaps in the government’s earners, should be provided with 4. Treatment should be made miscommunication. Hourly updates, the present crisis. response: substantial emergency assistance readily available at cost to the as to the progress of the intervention, With the Catholic Bishops 1. Food and medical assistance package including displacement government, in cases of confirmed must be communicated by health Conference of the Philippines should be provided for free to the insurance to compensate for loss of COVID cases. Mass testing should be experts and experienced science (CBCP), we also acknowledge our affected households giving priority income during the whole period of conducted in all areas as a prevention communicators who should be the responsibility to participate in to the depressed areas in Metro forced quarantine. It should be in and containment measure. There is ones holding the press conferences. addressing this national emergency: Manila, and in Luzon, in general. the form of comprehensive financial emerging evidence of best practices Again, united with our Bishops, “This is a time of difficulty but also a The government must provide assistance and unemployment from other countries on how testing we continually entrust our country time for growing in true discipleship support and subsidy (financial or benefits, and not loans. The one-time can be ramped up and scaled up. to our compassionate God: “In this as we strive to follow the Lord in in kind) to support the basic needs financial assistance of PhP 5,000.00 If a house to house approach is time of crisis let us put our trust selfless love and service of others.” of the poorest in the communities. to cover the unpaid leaves of the necessary, then it should be done. in the Lord who accompanies and In the spirit of solidarity, and in The government should look at its affected workers, under DOLE’s 5. Mass disinfection should be strengthens our faith. May He open support of our government in our fiscal space and free up funds that COVID-19 Adjustment Measures undertaken in areas where people our hearts to help those in need and efforts to adopt decisive measures may be used to acquire food, medical Program (DOLE Department Order usually congregate including move us to genuine compassion for to respond to this pandemic supplies, and other goods that will 209), is not enough. terminals, government offices, our brothers and sisters who suffer.” crisis, we would like to offer our address their daily needs. 3. The community-based public transport, courts. In the spirit recommendations, re-echoing The Office of the President has package of assistance providing of bayanihan, the people should be City of Manila the appeals of other civil society large budgetary allocations by way emergency employment for the mobilized in the effort. All those March 18, 2020 FEATURE CBCP Monitor March 30 - April 12, 2020 Vol. 24 No 7 FEATURE B5 A call and invitation to a Special Day of Prayer for our frontline medical personnel in this time of crisis Circular No. 20-18 TO ALL THE BISHOPS AND THE • Our prayer to the Lord for DIOCESAN ADMINISTRATORS those among them who lost their lives, having been Your Eminences, Your Excellencies infected by the disease itself, and Reverend Administrators: the disease that they were precisely fighting against. Although I am quite sure Let us pray for their grieving that many of us, if not all, have families and loved ones. been remembering and keeping • Our prayer to the Lord for in our prayers, like our Oratio those among them who are Imperata, those who are in the sick and those who are getting medical frontline of our collective over-fatigued. efforts to face the menace that the • Our prayer to the Lord that Corona Virus disease has brought they may receive the much- to our people, we make this call and needed material support and invitation to all our bishops, clergy assistance to perform their and religious, and to all our faithful, duties as medical frontliners to be united in a in this crisis situation. • Special Day of Prayer for All our Frontline Medical We leave it to each diocese and its Personnel in our fight against parishes to concretize this general the Corona Virus Disease call to prayer in your liturgies and Pandemic pastoral directives. This may be • On March 29, 2020, the 5th articulated in our introduction to Sunday of Lent the masses, homilies, prayers of • We do this in all our Masses, the faithful, and intentions in our our Rosaries, during our Holy rosaries and holy hour. Of course Hour, and in our moments of we continue praying our Oratio Nuns from the Our Mother of Perpetual Help Sisters help cook food at a “Community Kitchen for Frontliners” set up inside the compound of Baclaran Church Personal Prayer. Imperata. March 24, 2020. BACLARAN CHURCH May our prayers move us to Our fervent prayers for them: action: hesitant to go back to their families, start assisting them by providing Thank you very much for your For our doctors, nurses, medical Among the actions of support we and their families and children are facilities for them to go home to, kind consideration of this call and staff, all people working in hospitals can do is to remind ourselves and hesitant to receive them at home— some place for rest and sleep, and invitation. Let us continue praying and clinics, all our medical our people to cooperate with and for the simple obvious reason: they perhaps some meals—a second for each other. specialists and researchers, and all obey and follow the quarantine fear that the Corona Virus Disease home for our dedicated medical those personnel in our DOH: measures that our local government might be transmitted to them. Also frontliners—like some available • Our prayer of gratitude to the directed us to follow, most especially we heard that some landlords are buildings and rooms in our dioceses Sincerely yours in Christ, Lord for their heroic service the directive to stay at home. now becoming hesitant to allow and parishes, for example, formation to our people in these difficult Another action we can do: It them to come home to their rented centers, retreat houses, and pastoral times. has come to our attention that places for fear of the transmission centers? And of course, with well- +ROMULO G. VALLES, D.D. • Our prayer to the Lord for many medical personnel, doctors, of this disease. prepared hygienic protocols as we Archbishop of Davao their continued safety and nurses, and medical staff are now May our prayer move us to action: make these places available for CBCP President well-being. in a problematic situation. They are As dioceses and parishes, can we them. 26 March 2020 God is in control, compassionate, and will crown us HOW do we feel with everything sacred and not scared. Our Lord Jeus power and might. What a difference that’s going on right now? It’s is our refuge amid this coronavirus it makes knowing Jesus Christ is a natural feeling to be worried, pandemic. Trust and hold on to His King and that He reigns supreme and anxious, or even afraid. However, words: “go your way, your faith has everything is under His authority. we should never let those emotions made you well” (Mark 10:52). He will lead us to the rightful cure paralyzed us. Don’t let fear lead The Holy Eucharist is the focal and corresponding remedy. We us into passivity or isolation. We point and culmination for us should not doubt God nor rebel should let our sights look beyond Catholics. With the cancellation against Him even if he does not seem our current situation and focus of the Holy Eucharist, let us show to answer right away. Do not be our vision on God. The book of others that we become with what impatient with God or attempt to do Deuteronomy says, “be valiant we eat. Let us speak God’s words anything against His will. Instead, and strong, do not fear or tremble and share to others the Good News come to Him boldly and expectantly, before them for Yahweh, your God, of His love through the sacrificial trusting that He knows what’s best is with you; He will not leave you or Lamb. Instead of being idle due to for us and can use even the most abandon you” (Deut 31:6). a lockdown, self-quarantine, and difficult and trying times for good. Even in the midst of these suspension of classes, let us speak Let us cry out to God, acknowledge calamities, sickness, and pandemic, about forgiveness and charity. His providential care and rest on his our Almighty God is reminding us, Communicate with respect, unchanging mercy and abounding “fear not, for I have redeemed you; affection, and humility. With the live Grace. The words of St. James I have called you by your name; streaming of the celebration of the apply to us when he writes: “happy you are mine” (Isaiah 43,1). And our Holy Eucharist at home, be the body are those who patiently endure Lord Jesus is constantly reassuring of Jesus. Be the living bread to one trials, because afterwards they will us “courage! Don’t be afraid. It’s another. Just like what Jesus did, receive the crown of life which the me” (Matthew 14,27). break the bread and partake with Lord promised to those who love My brothers and sisters, in these them. Do something to preserve, Him” (James 1:12). perilous times, let us turn to God promote, and uplift each other’s and trust Him more. Let us rely on Bishop Ruperto Santos of Balanga. SCREENSHOT/SABINS STUDIO lives. Being together again with the Let us pray… God and commit everything to Him. when possible, face masks. Extra- distancing. Our assigned priests in family impels us to ask: how much The Lord is faithful (2 Thes 3:3). ordinary lay ministers of the Holy the parishes, with their discretion, time have we been together at family O loving God, you are the During this time of uncertainty, let Eucharist are obliged to wear can celebrate Holy Masses through meals? Have we been together as a Miracle Worker. We know you are me impart three important messages masks during the distribution of live streaming. family at the Holy Eucharist? always concerned about our needs. about our merciful God: the Holy Communion. Kumpisalang Our decision of canceling the Lastly, let us always realize Hear our prayers in this time of God is still in Bayan is temporarily suspended celebration of the Holy Eucharist that in spite of everything, God uncertainty. We pray that you control of everything. and general absolutions can be is our way of living the spirit of triumphs. God is always victorious. control the coronavirus pandemic. God is compassionate to us. given with proper catechesis. We, Lent; to intensify the longing for He conquers everything. The Book We fervently ask that you display God will crown us in the end. the priests, just like the doctors and our Lord Jesus and to perform of Psalm affirms “from the Lord your power and stop the rapid First, let us not forget that our nurses, are frontliners inside and acts of sacrifices for everybody’s comes deliverance” (Ps 3:8). Our spread of this deadly virus. Manifest God is powerful. He is our creator, outside of the Church, serving the sanctification. hope is always in God. He is our your presence to those who have as Saint John the Evangelist reminds people. Secondly, let us always remember very present help in time of need. already been infected. Give them us “all things were made through To give one’s hand is to comfort that God is compassionate . He He heals. hope and courage and may your Him and without Him nothing came and to care. Our elderly, the sick, and deeply cares for us and is very much Coronavirus in this Season of miraculous healing hands be upon to be” (John 1:2). Let us always those who are taking medications are concerned about our wellbeing. Our Lent is our “forty days and forty them. We also ask that you protect remember, God sits on the throne dispensed from Sunday obligations. gracious God did not even spare His nights” (Matthew 4:2) in our earthly the healthcare workers involved in forever and He is in control of every As preventive measures, we advised own Son for our salvation. St. John pilgrimage to Heaven. It is a threat the areas of outbreaks. May they living creature. As our good and our school children to temporarily the Evangelist assures us “yes, God to our precious lives, thorns to our stay healthy and grant them the loving God, he will never abandon us forego attending the Holy Mass. so loved the world that He gave His jobs, and a heavy burden to the stamina to work for the severely ill. so much so he will never ignore our Watching and hearing Sunday only Son that whoever believes in global economy. But Jesus assures We pray for the scientists working petitions. He will never let us down. masses from television and radio are Him may not be lost, but may have us “you will have trouble in the tirelessly to find a cure. Grant them So, come to God and remain in Him. sufficient in this situation. eternal life” (John3:16). world; but take courage! I have the wisdom so they may discover With the coronavirus pandemic In as much as we want to gather So, do not panic because of the overcome the world” (John 16:33). a vaccine against this virus. We and other catastrophes, the answer our people around the celebration of coronavirus pandemic. God is There is the reality of sickness also lift up to you the drug making lies in our hands (Diocesan directive the Holy Eucharist, we support and much bigger than all of these. He and uncertainty in our lives, as well companies. May they stand against dated 01 March 2020). Fold our abide by the call of our local officials can conquer all. He is intimately as the reality of the cross, which we unscrupulous practices and not be hands in prayers, submit ourselves to avoid mass gatherings to prevent involved in every aspect of our lives have to bear or even be crucified. motivated by profit over patients. to God as we lift up our prayers to the spread of the coronavirus. We and is concerned with our sufferings. In the end, a crown awaits us, Finally, we ask that you direct the Him. In praying, we acknowledge desire to still be able to provide for He will never abandon or ignore either of glory or of thorns. God government authorities according God’s power and sovereignty over the people’s spiritual nourishment us. The Bible says: “Have I not promised to reward those who love to your ways so they may work us and all of His creation. He will and not deprive them of the Bread of commanded you? Be strong and him and persevere during trials. Ask diligently and have the people’s give what is best for us. He will Life but at the same time, we do not of good courage; do not be afraid, ourselves, have we ignored God, set best interest at heart. Come to our bless us for He promised, “I will want to endanger the lives of many. nor be dismayed, for the Lord your Him aside, and think of ourselves as rescue O Heavenly Father and let restore you to health and heal your We prioritize the common good God is with you wherever you self-sufficient when we go through us combat our fears and worries wounds” (Jeremiah 30:17). Let us and safety of our people. It is best to go” (Joshua 1:9). some real hard times? Have we with the assurance that you will then place everything under God’s suspend the celebration of the Holy Our very own Filipino proverb I mocked God or let Him be ridiculed show compassion in this time of care. Eucharist in the areas where there is very applicable to our worrisome by others and we just laughed out great need. We pray in Jesus’ name, With the proper use of our hands are confirmed positive coronavirus situation. We should not be the loud? Have we fallen to the trap Amen! and concerted efforts, we can do cases. These are in the parish source of the problem but rather a of conceit and arrogance, puffing better. It is now our mandate to Churches of Orani and Balanga. part of the solution . Help instead ourselves up thinking we got it all? disinfect our parish Churches and Our Churches will be open for of hoard. Be truthful and disregard Let us never forget God, more +RUPERTO CRUZ SANTOS, D.D. its surroundings. Let us provide our people who would like to pray, false information. Give hope rather so in these dangerous times of Bishop of Balanga free alcohol, hand sanitizers, and observing the prescribed social than being prophets of doom. Be coronavirus. Let us recognize His March 18, 2020 B6 REFLECTIONS March 30 - April 12, 2020 Vol. 24 No 7 CBCP Monitor SOCIAL CONCERNS The Fugitive—abandoned by men and God From exaltation to rejection Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion, Year A (Matt 26:14-27:66) Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion, Year A (Matt 26:14-27:66) April 5, 2020 Alay Kapwa Sunday, April 5, 2020 By Msgr. Lope C. Robredillo, SThD By Fr. Sal Putzu, SDB

LIKE other synoptic writers, Mat- AS Jesus decided to move toward preferred to be the Messiah of God, thew portrays Jesus as the bringer Jerusalem one week before the rather than the temporal messiah of the Kingdom of God. By Kingdom Passover celebration, his disciples expected by people who have no of God he does not mean a religio- were jubilant. And when both the time for a “spiritual kingdom.” He political theocracy in which God is people of Jerusalem and the many chose to be the humble servant of represented by the high priest, or a thousands of pilgrims joined hands all, rather than a victorious and community in which only the good in giving the prophet from Nazareth arrogant king of this world. (See and perfect people form part. By an enthusiastic reception, the Mt 20:26-27 and Lk 22:26.) Kingdom he means God’s rule in a disciples felt sure that finally Jesus Such an attitude could not meet community in which the poor are was going to openly proclaim that the approval of glory-minded and not discriminated against, sinners he was the awaited Messiah, and power-addicted people like Judas are accepted, and the humble, the that he would have been crowned and those cast in the same mould. suffering and the oppressed come king of Israel. Feeling disillusioned, they rejected into their own. It is a community in But in Jesus’ mind, the decision to Jesus disdainfully, as a “useless which people experience acceptance, enter Jerusalem in such an “official” messiah.” forgiveness, reconciliation, unity manner had a very different aim. He Jesus’ determination to remain and love. In other words, it is the had a better Kingdom to proclaim faithful to God’s plan turned the tide fulfillment of God’s promise to the and establish than a temporal reign. against him. It turned the crowds prophets that he will live among his Since the Jewish leaders could not only by those who represented his His mission was to dethrone Satan, against him, especially through the people. As a bringer of the Kingdom, accuse Jesus of being a false prophet own people, but even by those who and to establish the sovereignty of crafty manipulation orchestrated he actualized it in his dealings with before Pilate, since this would not were supposed to protect him. No God in the hearts of all. Jesus knew by the Jewish authorities. That was the people, especially the poor and make sense to him, they denounced life could be more painful than that the moment had come for the how the joyful shouts of “Hosanna!” the disadvantaged. In particular, his him as a pretender to the throne. this. Men abandoned him. fulfillment of the most important turned into a thunderous demand parables and miracles were meant to Which explains the charge that was Of course, the abandonment stage in the Father’s plan: the that Jesus be crucified; the gentle indicate God’s forgiving and healing written on the cross and the capital of him by his own men and the redemption of sinful mankind palm branches waved in welcome word and action are now touching punishment. The charge, “Jesus of institutions of the country, not to through his sacrificial death. turned into the merciless scourges the very lives of his people. His Nazareth, King of the Jews,” was say the scourging, the carrying of He was fully aware of the very that plowed his body, and into the fellowship with sinners was a living something a Roman governor the cross and the crucifixion, could high price he would have to pay. nails that pierced his hands and feet. parable of salvation and forgiveness. could understand, and the fact still be borne if he had someone Yet, he did not back off. On the What about us? Shall we shut him In Jesus God was sharing his very that Jesus was crucified clearly to cling to. After all, we are often contrary, he took the decisive step out of our lives as a “disappointing life with Israel. indicates that Pilate considered told that when one knows someone of entering the Holy City in such messiah,” or shall we accept him as This was not the way Jesus’ him a rebel, crucifixion being a understands him, loves him, clings a provocative manner, as a sign the embodiment of right priorities, contemporaries saw him, however. Roman punishment for insurgents. to him and accepts him for what of his determination to do the and as the only bearer of God’s The Jewish leaders refused to see One can see, therefore, that the he is and without condition, he Father’s will. The following days, he salvation? The first choice would him as God’s eschatological mes- religious and the political leaders can bear almost any kind of pain. would already be lashing not at the associate us with Judas and the likes senger. Judging him on the basis saw him as dangerous, and there- That this is true—this is easily Romans, but at the hypocrisy of the of him. The second choice would of their understanding of the Law, fore had to be eliminated. It is verified when we hear the stories of religious leaders. (See for instance, place us among those who open the Jewish leaders, according to the not surprising that in some gospel people who have been imprisoned, Mt 23.) their hearts in gratitude to Christ Gospels, regarded him as one who passages, it can be noticed that or tortured, or who are separated Clearly, Jesus was not trying to as their Lord and Savior. With this claimed authority that was more Jesus recognized how precarious from their wives either as sailors be popular with the “authorities” second option we would declare our than human. For example, he set his his life was. or as contract workers abroad. The who could have supported his bid readiness to stand by him to the very interpretation of the Law against the Clearly, he had no one powerful certainty, the assurance that some- for power. Like in the episode of end, no matter what the cost. This is prevailing one in the community; he enough either in the government or one loves us is sufficient ground to the temptation in the desert, he the “JESUS OPTION.” is portrayed as violating the Sabbath, in the state religion to support him. survive and bear all the difficulties. and he even challenged the tradition He could not even walk openly. In the life of Jesus, one easily of the Jewish Elders. And one could just imagine the identifies his ground of existence The Eucharist: Christ’s empowering In the Jewish perspective of the psychological effect these had on with his Father. People may not Law, Jesus was seen as a false Jesus. To bring home the point, have understood him, but he was and transforming gift prophet, and in cahoots with the one may just make a mental picture certain that his Father did. After prince of demons. And when he said of himself being hunted down not all, in the gospels he claims that Holy Thursday, Year A, (Jn 13:1-16) something about the Temple that only by the executive department no one knows the Father except April 9, 2020 was unacceptable to the leaders of with the military, but also by the the Son and no one knows the Son the nation, they viewed his action judiciary and the institutional re- except the Father, and those he has By Fr. Sal Putzu, SDB not as something linked with the ligion—where could one go to? He chosen to reveal him. In the end, Kingdom of God, which it was, but could only live the life of a fugitive, however, he was unsupported in his GIFT-GIVING is an interpersonal that characterize us, it is good that we as an assault on their authority. But and that is note easy. Of course, a sufferings, the Father never freed and social activity that is found realize how the Eucharist is a LIFE- those who were against him were not fugitive from the law can still hide, him from it. This is probably the in all human societies. A gift is a GIVING and an EMPOWERING only the Jewish leaders and their if he has supporters to shelter him. meaning of his scream at death, “My sign of love. This is what makes it GIFT. It gives life and strength cronies. The leaders themselves But even this was denied him. On God, my God, why have you forsaken meaningful and precious far beyond to our weary souls, for in it we found allies among the political lead- the contrary, one from his own me?” (Matt 27:46). That kind of the “commercial value” of the object receive Jesus himself, the source ers. In particular, they had the Gov- group betrayed him. And even suffering is obviously unspeakable. that is offered.The greater the love, of our spiritual life. This is why it ernor on their side, and considering those who promised to die for him At any rate, that is how Matthew’s the more precious the gift, even empowers all the baptized to honor that they themselves had no power eventually ran when the authori- passion narrative portrays the death when the object chosen to express the commitments undertaken at to put someone to death, they found ties caught up with him. Jesus, in of Jesus—he dies as an abandoned it may not be proportioned to the their baptism. It supports the people in Pilate a perfect partner. other words, was abandoned not Son of God, the Crucified Messiah. intensity of the love it is meant to of every profession and walk of life signify. in the fulfillment of their duties. It All of us have received gifts, just sustains the virgins in their effort to The significance of the Easter Gospel as all of us have given gifts to some keep their hearts and bodies pure person or other. We should never as the Lord deserves. It gives the Easter Sunday, Year A, (John 20:1-9 / Lk 24:13-35) forget that our very existence, with martyrs the strength to witness to April 12, 2020 its rainbow of corollary gifts such their faith even at the cost of their as intelligence, affectivity, memory, life. By Msgr. Lope C. Robredillo, SThD and all the resources of our bodies, In his generosity, Jesus demands are gifts from the Creator. So is the nothing in return. For him, it is AN ancient wisdom advises that if transcends time and space. It is not (Mary of Magdala, Joanna, Mary world in which we live, the family enough to give, enrich, strengthen, one wishes to conquer, he has to like a resuscitation to an old life, as the mother of James, etc. [24:10]) and society into which we were and empower us. And yet, on our divide the enemy. However invin- in the raising of the widow’s son at remembered his words. Of course, born. All these are signs of God’s part, if we are people with a sensitive cible one appears to be, it is simply Naim (Luke 7:11). It is a new form they remembered because they had immensely generous love for us. heart, we feel that we must do our impossible to fight on many fronts of existence. Hence, in Luke’s res- accompanied him in his Galilean Unfortunately, we humans have best to reciprocate the gift, no and win, as Adolf Hitler realized too urrection narrative, only a negative ministry (8:1-3), and they witnessed tainted even this splendid expression matter how short we may fall in our late. If one wishes to reform the na- witness could be provided. When the crucifixion (23:49) and burial of God’s love for us with the dark effort. Such a TOTAL GIFT elicits tion, he cannot therefore afford to the women entered the tomb, they (23:55). In Luke’s theology, what stigma of sin. And so there have from us a “TOTAL RETURN.” antagonize the people, quarrel with did not find Jesus’ body (Luke 24:3). the women heard was crucial in in- been and there are people who use In practical terms, this means the political establishment and go up But the empty tomb is not an apo- terpreting the empty tomb. Because gifts not to express love but enslave that we should make a “gift” of our against the religious establishment. dictic argument for the resurrection. of it, they took the empty tomb as a and hurt others. These are the gifts poor lives—the best we can—to the Once he does these, he will virtually It could be interpreted differently. sign that Jesus is alive. Faith thus of the “Padrino,” who buys a guilty Lord and to our neighbor. This be a goner. Nothing is in store for In Matthew, for example, the chief comes from remembering what is silence or obtains an even guiltier requires that we do our very best him except defeat. The fate of Jesus priests claimed that the disciples heard (cf Rom 10:17). With this cooperation in committing crimes; to please God in all we think, say, appears to be like this. From the stole the body (Matt 28:12; cf John faith, they began to proclaim the the gifts of the one who bribes his/ and do. It demands that we place Roman and Jewish point of view, 20:2). Some claimed that the empty Easter Gospel (24:8-9). her way to success at the expense of ourselves at the service of others in Jesus, who had invited the people tomb was simply a product of wish- What is the significance worthier ones; the gifts that choke all humility and sincerity. It entails to repent and enter the Kingdom ful thinking. Others alleged that of the Easter Gospel? The resur- consciences and gag voices in order forgetting ourselves and giving of God, had to die. Because of his Jesus merely swooned on the cross rection of Jesus lies at the heart of to let evil prevail and continue . . . . priority to our neighbor. In short, teaching and behavior, the Jewish and subsequently extricated him- Christian faith. If he was not raised But a genuine gift should always this demands that we, too, become leaders accused him, among others, self from the bands and the tomb. from the dead, our faith is empty be a sign of generosity and selfless “eucharist”—a “eucharist” with a of threatening to destroy the Temple Hence, faith in the resurrection (1 Cor 15:14). God vindicated the love. Ultimately, it should signify small “e”; a pale reflection, we must (Mark 14:58), of leading people cannot rest on an incontrovertible persecuted Jesus—he was not a false the donor’s desire to give himself/ admit, of the one with a big initial, astray as a false prophet (John 7:12; empirical evidence. prophet, after all. On the contrary, herself totally to the recipient, in but the best we can be, nonetheless. Matt 27:63), and of assuming divine How then, according to Luke, he is the Savior (Rom 4:25), the love. This is why all gifts fall short This will be our “reciprocation” prerogative (Mark 14:64). These do we know that Jesus rose from the living Lord (Rom 10:9; 1 Cor 12:3), of really being what they are meant to the Gift we have received from charges, of course, would not make dead? First, God himself told us in the Son (Acts 12:33; Rom 1:34). In to express. All, except the Eucharist. him. And Jesus will receive it with sense in a Roman trial. This is why the mouth of two men in dazzling fact, all the books of the New Testa- The Eucharist is precisely what it a sincere, grateful smile, like the the Jewish leaders brought him garments who said to the women: ment were written from the point is meant to be: Christ’s total gift one of the parents who accept and to Pilate, the Roman governor, on “Why do you search for the Living of view of his resurrection. But of self to us in the fullness of his appreciate the simple gifts of their charges of insurrection: subverting One among the dead? He is not not only that. Because God raised divinity and humanity, in spite of little children. the nation, opposing tax payment here; he has been raised up” (Luke him, he will also vindicate those of the poverty of the material elements But for this gift of ours to be and pretending to be king (Luke 24:5b). (According to Jewish law, us who followed him (1 Cor 4:14). used to convey it. fully welcomed by Jesus, it must 23:3). And it is almost historically this testimony is conclusive because Those who died with him will live It is impossible to express in be accompanied by the gift of certain that Rome gave the verdict: two witnesses made it [Deut 19:15]). with him (2 Tim 2:11). Moreover, words the preciousness of the gift ourselves, offered in all sincerity and capital punishment. Second, Jesus himself prophesied it: even in the here and now, the life of the Eucharist. The more we say spirit of service, to our neighbor. But the end of Jesus was “The Son of Man must first endure that Jesus lives is given to us who or write, the more we feel that we We should do that in imitation of not defeat. Those who opposed him many sufferings, be rejected by the believe (Rom 8:12). This is made are only mumbling something that what Jesus himself did at the Last never triumphed. He was not a gon- elders, the high priests, and the possible through our baptism (Rom miserably falls short of the reality Supper, when he washed the feet of er, after all. For God reversed the scribes, and be put to death, and 6:4-12). We acquire a new being (2 we are talking about. It is only in his disciples. “Do you realize what I verdict. He raised Jesus from the then be raised up on the third day” Cor 5:17-21). Christ lives in us (Gal the life to come that we will be able have done for you?” he asked them. dead (1 Thess 1:10; Rom 10:9). The (9:22,24; 12:50; 17:35; 18:31-33). 2:20). And in Luke’s Gospel, the to understand the preciousness and And he concluded, “I have given you Jewish and Roman leaders took his For Luke, the guarantee of resur- first beneficiary of this new being in wonder of the Eucharist, for, indeed, a model to follow, so that as I have life; God gave him a new one. This rection is the trustworthiness of Christ is the repentant criminal: “I it is “the Mystery of Faith.” done for you, you should also do.” is the Easter Gospel. Resurrection, Jesus’ words. Thus, at the instance assure you, this day, you will be with But even with all the limitations (Jn 13:12b.15) however, is a metahistorical event; it of the two men, the women disciples me in paradise” (Luke 23:43). REFLECTIONS CBCP Monitor March 30 - April 12, 2020 Vol. 24 No 7 SOCIAL CONCERNS B7 The good and bad side-effects of coronavirus By Fr. Shay Cullen

THE good side-effects we can see during this medical crisis brought about by the coronavirus is the love, concern and care shown by the dedicated caregivers, nurses and medical workers. It is phenomenal. The goodness and love of millions of humans has come shining through. There are neighborhood help movements growing online. In Canada, an online network is helping the elderly, neighbors are helping neighbors. In Italy, people are singing from balconies to cheer up those in quarantine. People are changing to a healthy diet also. Preda Fair Trade Dried Mango fruit with loads of Vitamin C and no chemicals are selling fast in the UK and Ireland. People are changing to a healthy diet to strengthen their immune system to fight off and prevent the flu and hopefully coronavirus. The Preda dried mangos are available online for ordering if you can’t leave home. Go to the www. forestfeast.com online and ask a friend to do it. If you can go shopping to Tescos, Dunnes or Waitrose, you will find the Preda Dried Mangos PREDA’s mango harvest. there under the Forest Feast brand. Buy lots. All earnings from sales There are many good people like the caregivers of the nation that rich paedophiles come and rape of Ireland and the famine that go to support the abused children Margi on the front line. Many are exploited and harmed them. the children. Preda Foundation they caused and allowed. British rescued by Preda Foundation and former migrants or refugees, who Another positive outcome of the is fighting this and rescuing the politicians and families had taken protect them from the Coronavirus. fled poverty, oppression, fear and disastrous impact of the coronavirus child victims for healing. Preda Irish land by force and became You are doing good for all. suffering for a new, better life. Now is the lock-down and restricted Fair Trade helps us in this fight as rich. The Irish were impoverished. But the greatest good is the the rich, developed nations benefit international travel. The end to serious as coronavirus. You can They fled as refugees and migrants dedication of caregivers and medical from their skills and service. That cheap flights and the grounding of help, too. to America. workers. Eighty-year-old Elizabeth is a positive result of a sad history thousands of planes, strict screening, The young girls and boys are lured The United States was then a land would not survive the coronavirus if of human rights violations and setting up roadblocks, demanding into servitude with false promises of freedom, hope and opportunity not for Margi, her devoted caregiver. injustice. Margi was marked as a IDs, all has a positive effect. This of well-paid jobs by mafia-like for the oppressed and the poor. Everyday, Margi Gonzalez risks protest leader and fled the death helps to curb human trafficking of networks. The victims are held in Thousands of Irish fought and died getting infected on her rounds squads employed by a mining firm young girls and boys into Western debt bondage and forced to work in the civil war against slavery. Now, visiting her many patients in the to quell the protest against the countries from Eastern Europe, in the Philippines or rich countries under Trump, it is a closed fortress community center. She treats any mining corporation taking over their Asia and Africa. It is the modern for little or no pay. They are slaves, ruled by an anti-migrant white sores, takes blood pressure and farmland. slave trade that has hopefully been threatened with beatings and harm supremacist clique incapable of temperature and sees that they are That is the paradox, the poor flee slowed. to their families in their home responding strongly and correctly comfortable, fed, and taking her as migrants or refugees the hardship In an overnight decree, countries if they don’t cooperate to the coronavirus pandemic and medicine on time. Elizabeth and caused by the greedy multinational governments banned any and all and become slaves or sex workers. allowing it to spread. others are being monitored for corporations supported by their travel of most people, including the Preda Foundation rescues and We all are challenged to fight the coronavirus after one member governments. They exploit the travel of sex offenders, pedophiles heals many. the coronavirus by avoiding all of the community tested positive. natural resources of poor nations in and sex tourists and paedophiles Thousands of descendants of contamination by self-quarantine, Thousands of caregivers like Margi cahoots with the local corrupt ruling on child rape holidays. That is Irish migrants are in the medical hand washing, keeping social are slowing the spread of the deadly families. These three are the corrupt another kind of epidemic. There profession around the world now distance, and getting tested when contagious infection. She was a players behind every conflict. They is no specific law against it. There fighting coronavirus. From 1845 to protocols require. We must respect, migrant from the Philippines to drive the poor to become migrants should be. As the multinationals 1849, starving Irish migrants fled honor and support those who are Britain. and refugees. They in turn become rape the land of its minerals, the from British colonial exploitation risking all to help us win.

Absolution / B2

into consideration the mind and from the Pontifical Council for the pandemic contagion, the cases of 7) “Where the individual of Reconciliation cannot be used, the criteria…agreed upon with the Interpretation of Legislative Texts grave necessity in which it is lawful faithful find themselves in the through no fault of their own, the other members of the episcopal (Prot. No. 5309/96, 8.XI.1996). to impart collective absolution: for painful impossibility of receiving contrite penitent is in fact reconciled conference” (Apost. Exhortation 3) “Should there arise a sudden example, at the entrance to hospital sacramental absolution, it should be to God—even with mortal sins— Reconciliatio et Paenitentia, need to impart sacramental wards, where the infected faithful remembered that perfect contrition, without recourse to the Sacrament AAS, LXXXVII, 1985, p.270).” absolution to several faithful in danger of death are hospitalized, coming from the love of God, of Reconciliation, provided: together, the priest is obliged to using as far as possible and with beloved above all things, expressed There is perfect contrition, coming The Special Situation of the warn the diocesan bishop as far as the appropriate precautions the by a sincere request for forgiveness from the love of God, beloved above COVID-19 Pandemic possible or, if he cannot, to inform means of amplifying the voice so (that which the penitent is at present all things, expressed by a sincere After reaffirming the foregoing him as soon as possible (cf. Ordo that absolution may be heard.” able to express) and accompanied request for forgiveness (that which norms and criteria, the recent Note Paenitentiae, n. 32).” In fact, this is the only novelty by votum confessionis, that is, the penitent is at present able to from the Apostolic Penitentiary 4) “In the present pandemic of this Note—i.e., citing a very by the firm resolution to have express); states the following: emergency, it is therefore up to specific case when the exception recourse, as soon as possible, to Accompanied by the votum 1) “This Apostolic Penitentiary the diocesan bishop to indicate can be made. Since the norm on sacramental confession, obtains confessionis—i.e., the firm resolution believes—N.B. it is only stating an to priests and penitents the general absolution is an exception forgiveness of sins, even mortal to have recourse, as soon as possible, opinion, albeit a very prudent one— prudent attentions to be adopted to a prohibition (to impart general ones (cf. CCC, no. 1452).” This to sacramental confession. that, especially in the places most in the individual celebration of absolution, as laid down in c.961, final disposition bears further affected by the pandemic contagion sacramental reconciliation, such §1), this specific case should be looking into as it holds the key to The controversy that has arisen— and until the phenomenon recedes, as the celebration in a ventilated interpreted in a strict sense—i.e., unraveling the controversy that the involving all kinds of casuistry the cases of serious need mentioned place outside the confessional, the only in this specific scenario of a Note seems to have roused. regarding special circumstances that in can. 961, § 2 CIC above mentioned, adoption of a suitable distance, the COVID-19 infected medical facility, could warrant a general absolution, will occur.” In other words, it is not use of protective masks, without where the confessor cannot enter Conclusion but without individual confession stating that it has occurred, or is prejudice to absolute attention to the without prejudice to his own health. The sacraments of the New Law of sins—betrays a tendency occurring, but that it will most safeguarding of the sacramental seal 6) “Consideration should be given are visible signs, instituted by Jesus of absolutizing the role of the probably occur. and the necessary discretion.” In to the need and advisability of setting Christ in order to convey grace. Not Sacrament for God’s merciful action. 2) “Any further specification this regard, it is noteworthy that the up, where necessary, in agreement that God is constrained by such At bottom, what the Note really is delegated by law to diocesan CBCP, in fact, had given guidelines with the health authorities, groups sacramental signs to give his grace, expresses, is that in the impossibility bishops, always taking into account in this respect, which the different of extraordinary hospital chaplains, but that Jesus Christ instituted the of administering the Sacrament of the supreme good of the salvation Local Ordinaries had ratified in their also on a voluntary basis and in Sacraments so that—under ordinary Reconciliation in the manner laid of souls (cf. can. 1752 CIC).” proper circumscriptions. compliance with the norms of circumstances—they can be visible down by canonical norms—including This phrasing is very important, 5) “Furthermore, it is always protection from contagion, to signs of his action on the soul of the the two exceptions outlined in c.961, because it in fact remits to the up to the diocesan bishop to guarantee the necessary spiritual recipient. §1, 1° & 2°—the merciful Love of God existing norms contained in the determine, in the territory of his assistance to the sick and dying.” What n.7 above points out is that will prevail. There is no need to twist cited canon and further explained own ecclesiastical circumscription To my knowledge, this has not been in the extreme situation, where the the Sacramental sign to fit our poor by the aforementioned Response and with regard to the level of done in the Philippines. sacramental sign of the Sacrament human capabilities.

Supplement / B3

liturgy of Good Friday, the recent is to be celebrated only in Cathedral from the liturgies we offer to our available. On this problematic catechism teaches us, to God’s Vatican Guidelines say, “The bishop and parish churches. faithful to watch and listen to. pastoral situation, Pope Francis forgiveness, without having a priest will see to it that there is a special c. This can be celebrated not These Family/Home Celebrations has made this clarification, echoing at hand.” (Homily, Casa Santa Marta intention for the sick, the dead, for earlier than 5:00 p.m. can be used after the family has the teaching of the Catechism of Chapel, Pope Francis, March 20, those who feel lost or dismayed (cf. d. The “Lucernarium” can be followed the liturgical celebrations the Catholic Church (Nos. 1451 and 2020). Roman Missal pag. 307, no. 13). celebrated but within the building of the Church through radio, 1452): 3. Guidelines for Those Who In the concrete, this special of the Church. television, and social media. The “I know that many of you go to Minister to those Affected intention would include those who e. In the “Baptismal Liturgy”, we father or any of the elders of the confession before Easter… Many by the COVID-19: We are also are presently sick of Covid-19, only omit the “Ritual of Baptism” and household can lead the celebration. will say to me: ‘But Father…I can’t sending you a copy of the Guidelines those who have died because of we maintain the “Blessing of Water” We will send you the PDF copy leave the house and I want to make for Those Who Minister to those this disease, as well as our doctors, (cf. The prayer of blessing used if of these celebrations so you can my peace with the Lord. I want Him Affected by the COVID-19. nurses and other medical staff, no one is present to be baptized) translate these to your native to embrace me… How can I do that 4. Modified Holy Week and health care workers, the frontliners and the “Renewal of Baptismal language and eventually disseminate unless I find a priest?’. Do what Paschal Triduum Celebrations: in the food services and relief Promises”. them to your parishes. the catechism says. It’s very clear. We will also send you, the soonest, operations, those keeping peace and Related Considerations: 2. The Need for Confession If you don’t find a priest to go to copies of the modified Holy Week order, civil servants, and the poorest 1. Holy Week and Paschal when No Priest is Available: confession, speak to God. He’s your and Paschal Triduum Celebrations, among our families who are greatly Triduum Family/Home The opportunity of celebrating Father. Tell Him the truth: ‘Lord. I to guide our clergy and our faithful. affected by this crisis. Celebrations: These we offer the Sacrament of Confession is did this and this and this. Pardon 9. Easter Vigil: to our faithful so that they can extremely difficult to have during me.’ Ask His forgiveness with all Sincerely yours in Christ, a. Please refer to our previous use them even if they cannot be this crisis situation. your heart with an act of contrition, Circular (cf. CBCP Circular No. physically present in all our liturgical Thus, we remind our clergy that and promise Him, ‘afterward I will +ROMULO G. VALLES, D.D. 20-15). celebrations. It is to be noted that our faithful should be instructed on go to confession.’ You will return Archbishop of Davao b. The recent Vatican these Family/ Home Celebrations the issue of the need for Confession to God’s grace immediately. You CBCP President Guidelines say that the Easter Vigil are different and are to be used apart in a situation when no priest is yourself can draw near, as the 31 March 2020 B8 ENTERTAINMENT March 30 - April 12, 2020 Vol. 24 No 7 CBCP Monitor

ORATIO IMPERATA PRAYER FOR PROTECTION against the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19)

God our Father, We come to you in our need To ask your protection against the Coronavirus (COVID-19), That has claimed lives And has affected many.

We pray for your grace The Call of the Wild For the people tasked with studying the nature DIRECTOR: Chris Sanders LEAD CAST: Harrison Ford, Dan Stevens, Omar Sy, Cara Gee, and cause Karen Gillan, Bradley Whitford, Colin Woodell Of this virus and its disease PRODUCER: Erwin Stoff SCRIPTWRITER: Michael Green And of stemming the tide of its transmission. BASED ON: The Call of the Wild by Jack London MUSIC: John Powell CINEMATOGRAPHER: Janusz Kamiński Guide the hands and minds of EDITOR: William Hoy, David Heinz medical experts PRODUCTION COMPANY: 20th Century Studios, 3 Arts Entertainment That they may minister to the sick DISTRIBUTOR: 20th Century Studios With competence and compassion. COUNTRY: United States LANGUAGE: English RUNNING TIME: 100 minutes And of those governments and

Technical assessment: 3.5 Moral assessment: 3.5 private agencies CINEMA rating: V14 MTRCB rating: PG13 That must find cure and solution to this epidemic.

The comfortable life of Buck, when he refuses to cross the moviegoers’ hearts. Buck can definitely resonate with We pray for those afflicted a huge but gentle pet dog a frozen lake. Coming to in The Call of the Wild is no it. A person begins carefree, May they be restored to health soon. of a Santa Clara, California the rescue of Buck is Jack exception. A dog who is as as Buck who is naïve enough family, ends when he is Thornton (Harrison Ford), smart as a human being and to walk into a trap set by the dognapped and shipped off the man whose dropped can even be kinder than one unscrupulous. Then, away Grant us the grace to the Yukon to be sold as a harmonica Buck had picked is definitely endearing. Ford from his comfort zone, a To work for the good of all is very real as the world-weary person goes through the work dog. He is bought by up and returned at the pier. And to help those in need. Perrault and Francoise (Omar Thus begins the story of a Thornton, and he gets more rough and tumble of life, Sy and Cara Gee), a couple recluse and a dog who each in points for making viewers hurts himself and others, who delivers mail across the his own way answers the call believe he is interacting with falls and rises stronger — like Grant this through our Lord, a real trained canine actor Buck who is battered and Yukon using a dog sled. Being of the wild. when in fact he is not. Buck shaped and strengthened by Jesus Christ, your Son, a former family pet and a mix This 2020 American is computer animation all the working in a team and coping Who lives and reigns with You, of St. Bernard/Scotch Collie, adventure film based on way, and his performance, with man’s cruelty and greed. Buck is at first clumsy as a the 1903 best selling novel in the unity of the Holy Spirit, coupled with the magnificent Buck finds himself and his of the same title by Jack sled dog, but in their travels sweeping vistas of the Yukon destiny through the inspiring God, forever and ever. Amen. London is proof that the he gradually wins the trust (also CGI, by the way, the film guidance of an ancestor, a appeal of dog stories to a and admiration of Perrault being shot principally in Los black wolf that “appears” cinematic audience never Mary Help of all Christians, pray for us. and Francoise. When the Angeles studios), are enough to Buck at most crucial seems to wane. From Rin St. Raphael the Archangel, pray for us. mail route is replaced by to make The Call of the Wild moments — very much like Tin Tin to Lassie to Pluto to the telegraph, Buck is sold one thrilling memorable sled a person finds the perfection St. Rock, pray for us. Bolt to Scoobydoo, whether again, this time to Hal (Dan ride. of his being in listening to the real dogs, cartoons, or CGI St. Lorenzo Ruiz, pray for us. Stevens), a cruel slave-driver This may be a coming-of-age Inner Voice and heeding his creations, dogs in the movies St. Pedro Calungsod, pray for us. who threatens to shoot Buck tale of a dog, but humans Creator’s wisdom. will always have a place in

(Jeremy Strong); and a The Gentlemen Chinese gangster Lord George (Tom Wu). Add to Buhay San Miguel this drooling-after-drugs ensemble the sleazy private detective Fletcher (Hugh Grant) whose forte is digging up dirt about the filthy rich — he will shut up about his findings on Pearson’s pot empire in exchange for 20 million pounds — and you have schemes, bribery, blackmail and bloodshed galore. Film critic James Berardinelli sums up the The Gentlemen succinctly when he wrote: “Violence and profanity coalesce in a post-Tarantino fashion that results in Subscribe to FAITHWATCH.TV DIRECTOR: Guy Ritchie some humor bubbling LEAD CAST: Matthew to the surface amidst a McConaughey, Charlie Hunnam, testosterone overflow.” A Henry Golding, Michelle Dockery, Jeremy Strong, Eddie tad overpolished, this fast- Marsan, Colin Farrell, Hugh paced caper’s plot may be Grant contrived and complicated PRODUCER: Guy Ritchie, but Richie fans may find it Ivan Atkinson, Bill Block entertaining from beginning SCRIPTWRITER: Guy Ritchie to end — all 113 minutes of it. STORY: Guy Ritchie, Ivan Most fun to watch is Grant as Atkinson, Marn Davies the goatee-sporting Fletcher MUSIC: Christopher Benstead with a Cockney accent — a CINEMATOGRAPHER: Alan surprising departure from Stewart EDITOR: James Herbert his usual roles as soft-spoken, PRODUCTION COMPANY: mild-mannered, dreamy Miramax eyed romantic. Anglo-Asian DISTRIBUTOR: STXfilms, heartthrob Golding also makes Entertainment Film Distributors an about-face from his Crazy COUNTRY: United Kingdom, Rich Asians role and (spoiler United States coming!) ends up a frozen LANGUAGE: English cadaver here. RUNNING TIME: 113 minutes If you are in the mood for a good crime story crackling Technical assessment: 3.5 Moral assessment: 2.5 with British wit and humor, CINEMA rating: V18 The Gentleman might be to MTRCB rating: R13 your taste. Never mind that Ritchie the director does not American expat Mickey capitalize on the rich thematic Pearson (Matthew material just lying beneath McConaughey) has built a the film’s epidermis — like the lucrative marijuana empire connection between media in London. When word gets and organized crime, class out that he’s looking to cash distinction, the “business” out of the business forever relationship between the — in order to retire rich underworld and the powers that and in relative peace with be, the changes in a man going his beloved ambitious wife through midlife — and instead Rosalind (Michelle Dockery) just tells his story, apparently — everyone jumps in to have unconcerned that he might a piece of his 400-million- be perceived as politically pound cannabis kingdom, incorrect by certain viewers. including a suave and One character is referred to ambitious young Chinese as “the Jew”, another as “the drug underboss Dry Eye chinaman”, while a third is an (Henry Golding); Pearson’s Asian character whose name rival pot kingpin, American (Phuc) automatically makes billionaire Matthew Berger him the butt of jokes.