FRONT BACK COVER
Filipino Ministry Logo – It’s Meaning
The LOGO of the Filipino Ministry - DSB is rich in symbolism and meaning. Let us unpack what they convey to the Christian communities at large:
• ►HUMAN IMAGES: There are six human figures. The number six represents the six vicariates (Hemet, High Desert, Low Desert, Riverside, San Bernardino and West- End) in the Diocese of San Bernardino which are distributed to the two counties that comprise the diocese: San Bernardino The first LOGO was designed by MICHAEL and Riverside. The human images are the Filipinos residing AZUL, a parishioner of Holy Family Parish in in the 6 vicariates. They are close to one another to convey the Hesperia in 1994. unity that they signify, and that through their unity, a harmonious immersion to their respective parishes will be smoothly accomplish. ►BAMBOO CROSS: This represents the flexibility of the Filipinos, that where they settled, they always blossom in their faith. The bamboo can be used as tributaries where water will flow to give life to arid lands; likewise the Filipinos, firm as they are, they have a loving heart that feels the cries and needs of others; they become life-givers. • ►WHITE CLOTH HANGING ON THE CROSS: The white cloth represents resurrection, and this is the vision of the Filipinos, that wherever they are they can always live the resurrection as life- givers. This white cloth reminds Filipinos that their faith is embedded in the resurrection of Jesus. ►SHIP AND SAIL: The ship represents the County of Riverside and the sail represent the County of San Bernardino, which comprises the diocese.
►FILIPINO FLAG: This conveys the roots of the Filipinos. Their rich religious traditions and cultures are elements that will enrich the dynamics of life of the place where they are planted. The flag reminds Filipinos in the Diocese of San Bernardino to help enrich and strengthen the faith of the larger Church community by promoting the Gospel values of MAKA-DIYOS (PRO-GOD), MAKA- TAO (PRO-PEOPLE), MAKA-BAYAN (PATRIOTIC), MAKA-BUHAY (PRO-LIFE) and MAKA-KALIKASAN (FOR INTEGRITY OF CREATION). The present LOGO of Filipino The flag was added within the meaning of the first logo; Ministry-DSB designed by Joe Rafols, parishioner of St. John the Evangelist in 2008. Filipino Ministry Prayer
Before You, Oh Lord our God, we pray with deep faith that as we journey towards the realization of your dream and fulfill our mission, may we realize the diocesan vision and thrust.
We pray, that we, the Filipino Faithful of the diocese of San Bernardino, through the guidance of our Blessed Mother Mary, may share equal dignity with the larger Church community and called to be one body, united with our bishops Gerard and Rutilloas well as our priests in the worshipping, evangelizing and serving Filipino Ministry.
Fill our hearts with hope that we may become a community of disciples and stewards of Jesus Christ from whom we have the mission of making His gospel alive in our diocese and in the world.
We pray that by promoting His gospel values of maka-Diyos (pro God), makatao (Pro people), Makabayan (Patriotic) Makabuhay( for life)at makalikasan (for the integrity of creation), we may help to shape a society with greater respect for human life, economic and environmental justice, cultural diversity, and global solidarity and build a Church where the Kingdom of God reigns.
We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ Amen
Diocese of San Bernardino
OFFICE OF THE EPISCOPAL VICARS
July 2, 2008
Dear Holy People of God:
As a FILIPINO MINISTRY of the Diocese of San Bernardino (FILM-DSB), we have come a long but memorable journey. Allow me to use the episodes of the Transfiguration of Jesus to help us unpack three movements of our momentous journey to the mountaintop:
First, “Jesus took Peter, James and John and led them up a high mountain apart by themselves…and he transfigured before them.” This journey to the mountain top is an image of COMPANIONSHIP. Second, “Then Peter said to Jesus in reply, ‘Rabbi, it is good that we are here. Let us make three tents: one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah’”. This is a picture of a HOME. Third, “This is my beloved Son. Listen to him.” This is a moment of WITNESSING.
COMPANIONSHIP, HOME and WITNESSING are images where Jesus wants the FILM-DSB to walk with him, not only to the mountaintop, but more significantly in our involvement in our communities, parishes and in the diocese. COMPANIONSHIP opens the door of our hearts to see Jesus’ vision of an intimate HOME where humanity is touched by the love of God, and impels us to be WITNESSES of the gospel.
As members of FILM-DSB, let us be proactive companions in building the Kingdom of God (our HOME); hence, let us be prophetic witnesses in promoting the Gospel values of MAKA- DIYOS (PRO-GOD), MAKA-TAO (PRO-PEOPLE), MAKA-BAYAN (PATRIOTIC), and MAKA-KALIKASAN (FOR INTEGRITY OF CREATION).
In our Lady of La Salette,
Rev. Romeo N. Selección, MS Episcopal Vicar San Bernardino Pastoral Region Diocese of San Bernardino
1201 East Highland Avenue, San Bernardino, CA 92404 Telephone (909) 475-5115 Fax (909) 475-5109 E-mail: [email protected] MSGR. TOM WALLACE PICTURE/ MESSAGE
Diocese of San Bernardino OFFICE OF THE VICE CHANCELLOR Oficina de la Vicecanciller
May of 2008
My Dear Brothers and Sisters of the Filipino Ministry,
Several years ago we planted a tree in front of our house in a place that would provide the most shade. Our tree has grown so much that it now provides not only the shade we wanted, but a home for birds that bring joyful songs and a place for the neighborhood children to play.
I’ve seen the same growth take place in your ministry. In only fifteen years you have not only established strong roots in our diocese, but have brought us much richness and joy in sharing your culture. Maraming Salamat Po!
Thank you so much for sharing your journey. May you continue to grow in faith and in unity, and may the fruits of your efforts bring you ever closer to our Lord.
Sincerely,
Maria H. Echeverria
Vice Chancellor Director of Apostolic and Ethnic Affairs
1201 E. Highland Ave., San Bernardino, California 92404-4607 Phone: (909) 475-5140 Fax: (909) 475-5343 Email: [email protected]
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him (Col 3:15-17).
Fifteen years may not be considered a significant period of time in the eyes of historians, but fifteen years of ministry in a young diocese such as the Diocese of San Bernardino, is an accomplished journey calling for celebration and thanksgiving.
From a humble beginning in 1993, the Filipino Ministry in the Diocese of San Bernardino has witnessed a tremendous growth and is now present at 28 parishes throughout the diocese. For this, let us give thanks to the Lord.
We give thanks to God for the many gifts, individual and communal, the Filipino Ministry-DSB has brought to our diocese, especially the gifts Catholic devotions and popular religiosity, the gifts of faith through the exemplary and courageous life of San Lorenzo Ruiz, the gifts of joyful songs and dances that raise our hearts to God through the celebrations of Simbang Gabi and the feast of Santo Nino.
As director of the Office of Asian Pacific Islander Ministry, I am honored to be part of this historical celebration. Let’s us remember our past to continuously give thanks to our Lord and let us move forward to commit ourselves to the building of the Kingdom of God through our local church of San Bernardino, embracing, living and spreading the Good News of Jesus Christ so that people lives are filled with hope. Let’s us bring the gift of harmony and unity in the midst of chaos and diversity.
Congratulations and Happy Anniversary FilMin-DSB! Let’s move on! On to our next fifteen years, loving and serving God and one another.
Sincerely in Christ,
Sr. Theresa Phan, LHC Director, Office of Asian Pacific Islander Ministry - DSB
August 22, 2008
Dear Friends and Compatriots (MGA KABABAYAN),
Long live! Mabuhay! Viva los Filipinos!
Congratulations and warm greetings to All…Maalab na pagbati sa lahat…..
2008, we celebrate our Fifteen years of presence as Filipino Ministry in the Diocese of San Bernardino. I, together with the first leaders of this Ministry, can’t help but be grateful to God for the graces He has bestowed upon us in this diocese. Let us give thanks with grateful heart to Bishop Gerald R. Barnes who guide us through these years and to the many people whom God has used to nourish and nurture this ministry.
Together with the different ethnic communities, we consider ourselves as little stones that provide solid foundation to this diocese. There’s a wit that says, “There are three kinds of people in this world, those who make things happen, those who watch things happen and those who wonder, what happened.” We are grateful that the past and present leaders are completely committed, actively involved and continue to share their time, talent and treasure that makes the ministry vibrant and responsive to the people. In the grand design of building the church of God, each one is like a small piece of stone with a talent to contribute. Each one of us has flaws yet indispensable in the building of the kingdom. You have contributed to the building of the Body of Christ; continue to be a Welcoming/Hospitable, Faith Sharing, and Reconciling and Collaborative community. God bless and Keep up……
______Rev. Art Joseph Monzon-Balagat Out-going President, USFCMC United States Filipino Catholic Ministries Council Filipino Ministry, National Consultant to USCCB/PCMR
Office of the Asian and Pacific Islander Ministry 1201 E. Highland Avenue San Bernardino, CA 92404 www.filministry.com e-mail: [email protected]
May 3, 2008
Warmest greetings of Peace and Joy of Christ!
As we celebrate 15th year anniversary of FILIPINO MINISTRY, it is a occasion to thank God for the graces that ministry has received, for the growth it has experienced, for the opportunity to minister and for the call of stewardship. It is also a period to remember and thank those people who have been part of the ministry and share their time, talents and treasures to the ministry. To God and to our fellow ministers, let us say together: MARAMING SALAMAT PO!
Celebrating our anniversary is a moment for us to gather and share the blessings and dreams as well as the richness of our experiences. Let us bring then our family and community members to gather around the Table of God’s love and Goodness and from there we may draw strength and abundant blessings. HALINA! MAGSALO SA HAPAG.
This celebration of our Quicinera of Filipino ministry in the diocese, let us take this period to look forward and to renew our commitment. As a people of God may we become the bearers and doers of the Gospel values of MAKADIYOS, MAKATAO, MAKABAYAN MAKABUHAY AT MAKA-KALIKASAN (Pro-God, pro-people, Patriotic, for the culture of life, for the integrity of creation. Let us continue to journey towards the Kingdom of God where justice, peace, unity and integrity of creation reign. MABUHAY!
Congratulations! Happy anniversary! Thank you! God bless you!
In Christ through Our Lady,
Fr. Antonio G. Abuan, MS Diocesan Director Fil-Min DSB
Office of the Asian and Pacific Islander Ministry 1201 E. Highland Avenue San Bernardino, CA 92404 www.filministry.com e-mail: [email protected] May 3, 2008
Mga Kababayan,
Greetings and congratulations!
We began our joyful 15th year celebration as a diocesan ministry – freely expressing our Filipino Catholic faith, traditions and culture- with a candlelight procession of the images of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage, San Lorenzo Ruiz, Blessed Pedro Calungsod and Venerable Mother Ignacia del Espiritu Santo. We highlighted the day with a Eucharistic Celebration and, thereafter, a dinner/dance fellowship. Throughout the history of the Filipino Ministry – DSB you have generously supported its programs and activities by sharing your time, talent and treasure.
On behalf of the Board of Directors, the Executive Committee and the Standing Committees, thank you…
Thank you for promoting formation and providing assistance and guidance in the organizational development of a Filipino Ministry at the parish level;
Thank you for assisting in the pastoral care and service to the Filipino community, particularly the poor and the oppressed, through parish and diocesan programs;
Thank you for facilitating adult, young adult and youth evangelization by using formation and catechesis relevant to our Filipino religiosity, spirituality and culture;
Thank you for fostering the Filipino faith communities in accordance with the Filipino family values and meaningful worship while promoting dialogues and solidarity with other cultures;
Thank you for promoting the vocations of priesthood, deaconate, religious life and lay ministries; and
Thank you for promoting international solidarity with other ethnic communities and nationals in the larger Church community.
May God’s love, peace and joy be with you always.
Naida C. Castro Chairperson
Dear Sisters and Brothers, Friends in the Filipino Ministry of the Diocese of San Bernardino!
Greetings of the Lord’s Peace to you all!
As we celebrate the 15th Founding Anniversary of the Filipino Ministry of the Diocese of San Bernardino, the National Alliance of Filipino Concerns (NAFCON) in the United States of America send you solidarity greetings of gratitude, joy and inspiration!
We thank you for keeping the faith alive in this new land that many of you call your very own home. We know that this faith is rooted in our experience and culture as a people of the Philippines, varied in our regional expressions and yet one in its national identity. We know that this faith is alive in our devotions to the different images of Jesus Christ and of the Blessed Mother Mary, the saints who help us in the different seasons of our life and livelihood (San Isidro Labrador, San Roque, etc), in our family and extended family values, in our sense of being a community first before we are individuals, as shown in the “bayanihan” spirit, in our basic orientation to the holy, as in our concepts of “bahala na (Bathala na)” , “pagkakasala at kaparusahan”, and in our being “maka-tao at maka-Diyos, maka-Buhay, makabayan at makakalikasan”!
We rejoice with you in keeping our identity integrated into the US Church and society. By this integration, we are enriched by this new home and by this multi-ethnic society just as we give of ourselves to contribute to their richness. But what polishes us together, in this sharing of strength and weaknesses, is our faith in Jesus Christ, alive in each of us, present in our society, in our being Church, and known most especially among those who are most in need!
With you we are inspired to open up to the future, in a great experience of being a World Church, a pilgrim church on earth that serves the full realization of God’s Kingdom. That is why we must always link ourselves with the people back home in the Philippines, and with the other countries of origin of fellow immigrants because the history of this country and our own respective country-histories have always had profound relationships in times of war and peace, in the struggles for justice and truth, for freedom and liberation.
We look forward to a continuing partnership with you in the Filipino Ministry as we live out our faith together in the loving service of our brothers and sisters.
Fraternally yours,
Fr. Benjamin E. Alforque, MSC President National Alliance for Filipino Concerns FR. DENNIS LEGASPI PICTURE/ MESSAGE
FILIPINO MINISTRY, DIOCESE OF SAN BERNARDINO
BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2006 - 2009
Rev. Arturo Monzon-Balagat Rev. Antonio G. Abuan, MS Rev. Dennis Legaspi Maria Echevaria, Sr. Theresa Phan, L.H.C. Ex-Officio Director Spiritual Director Ex-Officio Ex-Officio Pastor, St. Anthony-San Jacinto Pastor, Our Lady Of The Administrator, St. Vice Chancellor and Director, Asian-Pacific National Apostolate , USCCB Desert Elisabeth of Hungary Director of Apostolic & Ethnic Islander Ministry, Diocese Apple Valley Desert Hot Springs Affairs, Diocese of San Of San Bernardino Bernardino
Naida Castro Nini Dyogi Vicky De La Cruz Merci Littaua Rudy Soliman Chairperson Vice Chairperson Treasurer Representative St. George St. Thomas The Apostle Secretary Blessed John XXIII Sacred Heart High Desert Fontana Riverside Fontana Redlands Our Lady of the Desert Apple Valley
Lourdes De Jesus Bing Johnson Vangie Fernandez Beth Managan Frank Lansang Alternate Representative Representative Alternate Representative Representative Alternate Representative High Desert San Bernardino San Bernardino West End A West End A Holy Family Hesperia St. Adelaide St. Adelaide St. Elizabeth Ann Seaton St. Elizabeth Ann Seaton Highland Highland Ontario Ontario
Louie David Owett Cabildo Vic Eslava Ariel S. Jamisola Manny Alidio Representative Alternate Representative Representative Alternate Representative Representative West End B West End B Hemet Hemet Low Desert St. Peter & St. Paul Sacred Heart St. Christopher St. Anthony Blessed Kateri Alta Loma Rancho Cucamonga Moreno Valey San Jacinto Beaumont
Tess Alidio Jose F. Rafols Benjie Lungay Alternate Representative Representative Alternate Representative Low Desert Riverside Riverside Blessed Kateri St. John The Evaangelist St. Catherine Of Alexandria Beaumont Riverside Riverside
FILIPINO MINISTRY, DIOCESE OF SAN BERNARDINO
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 2006 - 2009
Rev. Antonio G. Abuan, MS Rev. Dennis Legaspi Naida Castro Nini Dyogi Director Spiritual Director Chairperson Vice Chairerson Pastor, Our Lady Of The Desert Administrator, St. Elisabeth of St. George St. Thomas The Apostle Apple Valley Hungary Fontana Riverside Desert Hot Springs
Merci Littaua Vicky De La Cruz Rev. Ben Alforque, MSC,VF Romy Enriquez Nel Rabe Secretary Treasurer Member-At-Large Member-At-Large Member-At-Large Sacred Heart Blessed John XXIII Vicar Forane-Riverside Vicariate Ministry Formation Institute, St. Peter & St. Paul Alta Rancho Cucamonga Fontana Parochial Vicar, St. Catherine of Diocese of San Bernardino Loma Alexandria – Riverside President, National Alliance of Filipino Concerns (NAFCON)
STANDING COMMITTEES
Joe & Cely Rafols June & Techie Bitanga Nini Dyogi Chabs Aranez Coordinators Coordinators Worship Coordinator Family Life Youth & Young Adult Temporary Coordinator Evangelization St. John The Evaangelist St. Catherine of Alexandria St. Peter & St. Paul Riverside Temecula Alta Loma
Owett Cabildo Robert Clamor Coordinator Coordinator Stewardship & Finance Social Concern Sacred Heart St. George
FILIPINO MINISTRY, DIOCESE OF SAN BERNARDINO
FILIPINO PRIESTS, DEACON AND SISTERS
Rev. Antonio G. Abuan, MS Rev. Benjamin Alforque, Rev. Arturo Monzon-Balagat Rev. Frederick Costales, MS Rev. Msgr. Cesar Encinares Pastor, Our Lady Of The MSC Pastor, St. Anthony Parochial Vicar Chaplain Desert - Apple Valley Vicar Forane San Jacinto St. Christopher Loma Linda University St. Catherine of Alexandria Moreno Valley Medical Center Riverside Loma Linda
Rev. Jose R. Goopio, S.V.D. Rev. Arian G. Intal, MS Rev. Ignacio Estrada S.V.D. Rev. Nick Gito, MSC. Rev. Joven Junio, MS Director Our Lady of the Desert Chaplain St. Catherine of Alexandria Pastor Divine Word Missionaries Apple Valley San Bernardino Community Riverside St. Christopher Riverside Hospital Moreno Valley
Rev. Enrique Lapuebla, MS Rev. Dennis Legaspi Rev. Generoso T. Sabio, MSC Rev. James Oropel Rev. Emilio Reyes, SVD Chaplain Administrator Pastor Holy Innocents Director Riverside County Regional St. Elisabeth of Hungary St. Catherine of Alexandria Victorville Divine Word Misionaries Medical Center Desert Hot Springs Riverside Riverside
Rev. Romeo N. Seleccion, MS Rev. Cristobal Subosa, F.I. Rev. Msgr. Antonio G. Sudario Rev. Briccio Tamorro, SVD Donnie Geaga Episcopal Vicar Sacred Heart Chaplain Provincial Superior Deacon Diocese of San Bernardino Rancho Cucamonga St. Bernardine Medical Center Divine Word Missionaries St. Peter & St. Paul San Bernardino Riverside Alta Loma
Sr. Nina Achacoso, MSM Sr. Angelita Bacleon, MSM Sr. Lily Salilin, MSM
MAJOR EVENTS
Filipino Clergy Concerts
Class No. 1, Marriage Encounter sponsored by the Family LifeCommittee held at NAPCO Convocation, Washington, DC, St. Catherine of Alexandria-Riverside, May 31-June 1, 2008. June 30 – July 3, 2006
Simbang Gabi Closing celebrations held at St. Catherine of Alexandria, Riverside, December 23, 2008.
Lenten Reflections, Divine Word Retreat Center, Riverside May 14 – May 15, 2008 NAPCO Exhibits at the Religious Discovering and Re -discovering Congress, Anaheim Convention The Philippines Center 2008 Bishop Barnes Annual Dinner Celebrations
2005 World Youth Day, Cologne, Germany
Filipino Ministry Contingent to the Flores De Mayo Festival in Orange Show, San Bernardino Winners of the Cherokee Raffles awarded during the Simbang Gabi Kickoff held at St. Ann Church, San Bernardino on December 15, 1995.
Simbang Gabi Workshops, November Simbang Gabi Kickoff held at St. Ann Church, San Bernardino on December 15, 1995. 3, 2007 held at St. Catherine, Riverside Diocesan Filipino Ministry San Lorenzo Ruiz Choir, Liturgical Dancers-September 30, 2006, St. George, Ontario
General Assembly, November 10, 2007 held at Sacred Heart, Rancho Cucamonga
April 30, 2005 First Invitational Choral Song Festival. St. George, Ontario
Filipino Ministry 15th Anniversary, May 3, 2008 held at St. George, Ontario
Directory Editorial Board, July 12, 2008 NAFCON Meeting, December 5, 2007 held at St. George, Ontario held at St. John the Evangelist, Riverside History Of The Filipino Ministry, Diocese Of San Bernardino Fifteen Years of Service and an organizational set-up consisting of the:
A. General Assembly, the highest consultative body of the In the Pastoral Care of the Filipino Community Filipino Ministry – Diocese of San Bernardino Filipino Ministry, responsible for reviewing, deliberating and amending the Constitution and By-Laws subject to the
approval of the Board of Directors. We, the Church of San Bernardino, are a community of believers in Jesus Christ, called to impact family, neighborhood and society B. The Board of Directors, the highest policy-making body of with the Gospel so that people’s lives are filled with hope. (Mission the Filipino Ministry, deliberating on policies, actions, or Statement - Diocese of San Bernardino) issues pertaining to the Filipino Ministry, acting on matters received from the General Assembly and serving as an In 1985 Pope John Paul II, in his address on World Migrant’s Day, Advisory Body to the Bishops of the Diocese, as well as insist that “the immigrant members of the Church, while freely resource group for pastors and other Diocesan bodies exercising their rights and duties and being in full ecclesial among the Filipino communities communion in the particular churches, feel themselves Christians and brothers towards all, must be able to remain completely C. The Executive Committee, exercising the general themselves as far as language, culture, liturgy and spirituality, and supervision and implementation of the day-to day affairs of particular traditions are concerned.” the Filipino Ministry, working with and through the Standing Committees: Worship and Prayer, In the late 1980’s Filipinos in the Diocese of San Bernardino were Evangelization/Education/Formation, Christian Service, able to express their Filipino faith, religiosity and culture through Stewardship and Finance, Family Life and Youth. various devotional groups (i.e., Rosary, Santo Niño, Lord of Pardon, Our Lady of Fatima, etc.) in gatherings homes. In April On November 7, 1994, the Constitution and By-Laws was adopted 1991 Most Rev. Phillip Straling, Bishop of the Diocese of San with Fr. Balagat as the first Director appointed by Bishop Barnes and Bernardino, and Msgr. Peter Luque, Vicar of Ethnic Affairs, began with Jessie Cristobal elected as the first Chairperson and with an the outreach to the Filipino community together with Filipino Fr. Advisory Board consisting of the following officers and members: Sofronio Aranda and lay leaders Santiago “Santi” and Virgie Ex-Officio Members (4) Garospe, who were parishioners of St. Paul the Apostle – Chino Most Rev. Gerald R. Barnes, Auxiliary Bishop and Vicar of Ethnic Hills. Affairs In January 1992 Msgr. Luque was succeeded by then Auxiliary Fr. Arturo J. Balagat, Director of Filipino Ministry Bishop Gerald R. Barnes. With the arrival of Fr. Arturo J. Monzon- Fr. Romeo N. Seleccion, MS, Priest Liaison Balagat in November 1992 and, thereafter, the Missionaries of the Santiago B. Gorospe, Lay Coordinator La Salette Fr. Maurice Cardinal and Fr. Romeo Seleccion, Filipino Representatives (8) outreach to the Filipino community continued to flourish. Filipinos Jessie Cristobal, Chairperson of the Board and Youth Committee came together for the celebrations of diocesan Simbang Gabi Aurora Heminger, Vice-Chairperson and Chair for Education Novenas. Fr. Balagat, Fr. Seleccion and the Garospes continued Zuming Hermosura, Secretary tapping the Filipino Cursillistas and members of devotional groups, Mar Tigno, Treasurer which became the grassroots of the formation toward the Romeo Villar, Chairperson, Christian Service Committee development of a formal diocesan Filipino Ministry. Romeo de Guzman, Chairperson, Worship and Prayer Committee On April 7, 1993, a group of Filipino leaders gathered for a Godofreda B. Sumalangcay, Chairperson, Stewardship (Finance) consultation, headed by Bishop Barnes, at Sacred Heart Parish in Committee Etiwanda, now Rancho Cucamonga. The consultation was Lydia Samaniego, Member, Worship and Prayer Committee designed to solicit input for planning and setting of the goals for a Non-Filipino Representatives (3) diocesan Filipino Ministry. During the consultation process Bishop Fr. Tim Keppel, Pastor, Resurrection Church, Fontana Barnes recognized and commented on the gifts Filipinos bring - Sr. Teresa Gomez, Director, Hispanic Ministry our faith, our service and our rich religious culture and practices – Thomas R. Lenert, Chairperson, Family Life Committee to the diocese. He asked the following questions for reflection: Ms. Cristobal chaired the Filipino Ministry – DSB until 1997. From 1. What are the issues and needs facing the Filipino 1997 – 1998 the position of Chairperson was vacant. Among the Catholic community in the diocese of San Bernardino? activities during this period were:
2. What are the gifts and talents the Filipino Catholic • December 1994, First Diocesan Fund Raising Campaign; first community possess to address these need? prize: Jeep Cherokee; over $100,000.00 were raised of which
40% was shared with participating parishes. 3. What are the obstacles present within the Filipino Catholic community that interferes with addressing these • May 28, 1995, Santacruzan ’95, A Filipino Cultural Celebration; needs? Officer in-charge and co-chair: Dr. Freda B. Sumalangcay,
4. What are the hopes and expectations of the Filipino Stewardhip and Finance Committee Chairperson; Venue: International Pavilion, National Orange Show, San Bernardino. community from the diocese of San Bernardino?
An Ad Hoc Committee was formed with Fr. Balagat as the • September 30, 1995, First Pastoral Conference in honor of St. convener and Mr. Garospe as the lay contact person. The Lorenzo Ruiz, the first Filipino Saint; Coordinators: Mon and Len ensuing dialogues, including vicariate meetings in the West End, Robrigado, Ontario Vicariate Coordinators; Emcee: Salvador N. Riverside, San Bernardino and Victorville, gave birth to the Filipino Calumno, Jr., Ontario Vicariate Representative; Venue: St. George – Ontario. Ministry – Diocese of San Bernardino. The result of the grassroots consultation was compiled by Fr. Seleccion and, thereafter, • May 30, 1997, Papuri at Pasasalamat (Praise and Thanksgiving) presented to Bishop Barnes and to the General Assembly for – A Showcase of Philippine Sacred Music for Sacraments & ratification on January 15, 1994, at St. Anne Church in San Other Celebrations; sponsored by the Filipino Ministry of the Bernardino. West End Vicariate in collaboration with the Jesuit Music Ministry
On October 13, 1994, Bishop Barnes signed the Constitution and and Bukas Palad Choir; Venue: Our Lady of the Desert – Apple Valley. By-Laws of the Filipino Ministry – DSB, with its Mission Statement, Purpose, Goals and Objectives (see Constitution and By-Laws) • September 27, 1998, Feast of San Lorenzo Ruiz Celebration
History Of The Filipino Ministry, Diocese Of San Bernardino Main Celebrant: Most Rev. Gerald R. Barnes; Venue: St. Josie Dumdum, Renew 2000 Coordinator, St. Paul the Apostle – George – Ontario. Chino Hills; Presenter – Filipino Culture and Religiosity: Irma Isip, Consultant, Asian and Pacific Islander Perspectives, • November 15, 1998, a task force was formed to look into the Archdiocese of Los Angeles; Presenter – Hispanic Culture and Banal na Pag-aaral (BNP); the task force, which comprised of Religiosity: Sr. Cecilia Calva, Hispanic Affairs and Encuentro priests and parish leaders whose parishes are close to the Coordinator, DSB; Presenter – Native American Culture and BNP headquarter and a lawyer, met regularly with Fr. Balagat; Religiosity: Dean Frank Alaniz; Presenter – Vietnamese Culture Result: Bishop Gerald Barnes issued statements on February and Religiosity: Sr. Theresa Phan, LHC, Director, Asian-Pacific 10, 1999, and December 8, 2005, banning the BNP in the Islander Ministry-DSB; Presenter-Korean Culture and Religiosity: Diocese of San Bernardino. Peter Chung, Korean Community Diocesan Liaison; Presenter – • December 13, 1998, Simbang Gabi Kick-off Celebration and Tongan Culture and Religiosity: Sr. Clare Tavo, OSH, Tongan Cursillo Thanksgiving Mass; Main Celebrant: Most Rev. Community Diocesan Liaison; Presenter – African-American Gerald R. Barnes; Theme: Celebrating the 20th Anniversary of Culture and Religiosity: Rev. Richard McGee, CR, Vicar for the Diocese and Preparing for the Third Millennium; the African-American Community; and Presenter- Synthesis: Rev. Filipino Ministry West End Vicariate Choir, Hispanic, Romy Seleccion, MS, Pastor of Our Lady of the Desert – Apple Vietnamese and Korean choirs collaborated in providing the Valley; Venue: St. Margaret Mary – Chino. music for the combined multicultural celebration, which was preceded by a grand ultreya of the Filipino Cursillo Movement; • June 24, 2000, Commissioning of the Board Officers and Venue: St. George – Ontario. Members during Ugnayan 2000: Chairperson Willie Bugaoan;
In 1999, Willie Bugaoan was elected as the second Chairperson. Youth Coordinator Jose Crespo, In 2003 Msgr. Cesar “Ching” Encinares replaced Fr. Balagat. Ms. Evangelization/Education/Formation Coordinator Naida Castro; Bugaoan chaired the ministry through the end of 2003. During this Christian Service Coordinator Bernadette “Chabs” Aranez; period Fr. Antonio G. Abuan was also appointed by Auxiliary Stewardship and Finance Coordinator Etchell Alfonso; Family Bishop Dennis O’Neil as the Chaplain to the Filipino Cursillo in Life Coordinators Jose and Cely Rafols; and Worship and Payer Coordinator Amy Foulkes. Christianity Movement. Among the activities were: th • May 8 - 9, 1999, Philippines Boys Choir Concert, a • October 7, 2000, Rev. Arturo Joseph Monzon-Balagat’s 25 fundraising of the Ministry of Sisters of Social Services in the Priestly Ordination Anniversary Celebration to honor his many Philippines for the educational fund of the choir members was accomplishments, particularly his pastoral care of the Filipino supported by the Filipino Ministry – DSB; very poor but Catholics in the diocese and beyond; attended by Msgr. Gerald musically gifted members of the choirs were 8- 15 year old M. Lopez, STL , V.G., many diocesan Filipino priests and 350 young men from the farm of Bukidnon. Filipino Ministry members of the diocese; Venue: Hilton Hotel – Ontario. • August 29, 1999 to February 2000, Theology Formation Program for the Filipino Ministry leaders, a program of the • December 9, 2000, Most Rev. Gerald Richard Barnes’ Silver Parish Ministry Formation Program (PMFP) for the Filipino Jubilee of Priesthood Mass; thereafter a commemorative book of
Catholics offered by the Ministry Formation Institute (MFI) to the Bishop’s 25 years of priesthood was presented by Willie develop and assist leaders of the diocesan and parish Filipino Bugaoan, chairperson of the Commemorative Book, and Tess Ministries, prayer/devotional groups and movements. Faicol, and one of the lead writers of the book.
• October 29, 1999, First Simbang Gabi Workshop in • December 15, 2000, Simbang Gabi Kick-Off Celebration; Main collaboration with the Office of Worship; Presenters: Les Celebrant: Most Rev. Gerald Barnes; Venue: St. Adelaide – Rangel Santos, Liturgy and Music director from Archdiocese Highland. January 2001, Rev. Arturo J. Monzon-Balagat was of Los Angeles, and Kathleen Estrella, Music Director – DSB; appointed chairperson of the United States Filipino Catholic Venue: Pastoral Center. Ministries Council (USFCMC), an organization of Filipino ministries nationwide; Fr. Balagat replaced Fr. Joe Arong. • September 25, 1999, Feast of San Lorenzo Ruiz Celebration; Main Celebrant: Rev. Romy Seleccion, Parochial Vicar of St. • February 18, 2001, A Study Day on the Church in Asia, with a Christopher – Moreno Valley and Director of the Asian and Special Focus on the Philippine Church; Presenter: (then) Rev. Pacific Islander Ministry - DSB at the time; Our Lady of Luis Antonio Tagle, Diocese of Imus, Cavite, Philippines; Venue: Lourdes Parish - Montclair. Pastoral Center – San Bernardino. • December 11, 1999, Simbang Gabi Kick-Off Mass; Main Celebrant: Rev. Romy Seleccion; Choir: Good News Chorale; • April 7, 2001, First Diocesan Lenten Day of Prayer; all-day Venue: St. Paul the Apostle – Chino Hills. retreat attended by 200 participants; Retreat Director: Fr. Ramon Cortez; Music provided by the El Shaddai Music Ministry of St. • April 13, 2000, Vocations Dinner with His Excellency Gerald George – Fontana; Valimer Jansen interpreted part of Genesis in R. Barnes. A night for Filipino families from the different song; Passion play by St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, Ontario vicariates to hear vocation stories; attended by 250 adults and parishioners; Venue: Sacred Heart – Rancho Cucamonga. children; Venue: Pastoral Center. • June 3, 2001, Asian-Pacific Encuentro sponsored by the Asian- • April 13, 2000, Vocations Dinner with His Excellency Gerald Pacific Islander Ministry; Keynote Speaker and Eucharistic R. Barnes. A night for Filipino families from the different Celebrant: Most Rev. Gerald R. Barnes; Music and Liturgical vicariates to hear vocation stories; attended by 250 adults and Dance by El Shaddai Ministry of St. George – Fontana; three children; Venue: Pastoral Center. other parishes provided cultural dance numbers; Venue: Venue: St. Margaret Mary – Chino. • June 24, 2000, UGNAYAN 2000 (ENCUENTRO 2000) – Iba’t- ibang Mukha sa Tahanan ng Diyos (Many Faces in God’s • June 16, 2001, Workshop on Introduction to Music Ministry - A House); Keynote Speaker: Very Rev. Steve Porter, Vicar prerequisite class for the Simbang Gabi Refresher Workshop Forane, West-End Vicariate; Respondent – Reflection on the and for Music Ministry Certification by the Office of Worship; Many Faces in God’s House – Encuentro 2000: Elizabeth designed for Filipinos and everyone involved with music ministry Manangan, Ethnic Coordinator, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton – in the multicultural assemblies; Presenters: Kathleen Estrella Ontario; Respondents – Reflection on the Jubiliee 2000: and Sr. Theresa Gomez; Venue: St. Elizabeth Ann Seaton – Ligaya Butts, Member, Diocesan Jubilee Committee and Ontario. History Of The Filipino Ministry, Diocese Of San Bernardino • June 22, 2001, Simbang Gabi Refresher Workshop; of Migrants and Refugees, USCCB; Venue: Pastoral Center – Presenter: Kathleen Estrella; Venue: St. Catherine of DSB. September 2003, Atty. Francis Papica, representing Alexandria - Rialto. Southern California in the Philippines, received the Bayaning Filipino Award, a project of Philippines ABS-CBN Broadcasting • September 21, 2001, Feast of San Lorenzo Ruiz Celebration; Main Corporation to promote the values of the Filipino people. Atty Celebrant: Most. Rev. Dennis O’Neil; Choir: Good New Chorale; Papica, a parishioner of St. Paul the Apostle – Chino Hills, was Venue: St. Christopher - Moreno Valley. December 15, 2001, nominated by the Filipino Ministry – DSB in collaboration with Simbang Gabi Kick-Off Celebration; a multicultural UGAT Foundation’s Director Fr. Nilo Tanalega, SJ.
celebration; Main Celebrant: Most Rev. Dennis O’Neil; Fr. • September 28, 2003, Feast of San Lorenzo Ruiz; Main Charles Schultz, STD, Pastor; Venue: St. Elizabeth Ann Celebrant: Rev. Art Balagat: Venue: St. George- Ontario. Seton - Ontario. December 14, 2003, Simbang Gabi Kick-Off; Theme: Filling December 23, 2001, Simbang Gabi Closing Liturgy; Main Lives with Hope; Main Celebrant: Msgr. Gerardo Lopez, STL, Celebrant: Fr. Ramon P. Cortez; Venue: Our Lady of Mt. Vicar General, and homilist Rev. Benjamin E. Alforque, MSC; Carmel – Rancho Cucamonga. Venue: St. George – Fontana.
• February 14, 2002, St. Valentine’s Day Dinner and Dance; to December 23, 2003, Simbang Gabi Closing Liturgy; Main raise funds for World Youth Day 2002 participants; Special Celebrant: Rev. Art Balagat; followed by the Filipino Priests in Concert; Venue: St. George – Ontario. Guests: Most Rev. Dennis P. O’Neil and Msgr. Gerald M. Lopez; Venue: St. George – Ontario. On March 4, 2004, Filipino Ministry – DSB Director Msgr. Encinares
• March 6 - 7, 2002, Youth Symposium; a two-day symposium called for an Ad Hoc Committee at the Pastoral Center to: 1) Assess, centered on the ministry to and with youth; attended by Youth evaluate and plan for the future of the Filipino Ministry – DSB; 2) Committee Chairperson Jose Crespo; chairperson of the Conduct a survey to determine the presence and involvement of Commemorative Book; Venue: Pastoral Center. Filipinos within the parishes in the Diocese of San Bernardino; and 3) Review the draft of the proposed revisions to the Filipino Ministry – • April 27, 2002, Link an Evening with the San Bernardino DSB’s Constitution and By-Laws. During this period, the Youth - Dinner Dance to raise funds for22 scholars of XVII Evangelization and Worship Committees had the following World Youth Day in Toronto, Canada; St. George – Ontario. evangelization and liturgical activities:
• July 18 – 28, 2002, World Youth Day 2002; Willie Bugaoan • March 12, 2004, Lenten Reflection - Reclaiming the Passion, and Naida Castro accompanied a group of youth, young Death & Resurrection of Jesus In Our Times, A Reflection of our adults, parents and diocesan seminarians; Venue: Toronto, Lord’s Passion, Death, and Resurrection According to St. Canada. Matthew, St. Mark, St. Luke and St. John; Presenter: Fr.
Benjamin E. Alforque, MSC; Venue: St. George – Ontario. • September 21, 2002, Feast of San Lorenzo Ruiz Celebration; Main Celebrant: Most Rev. Dennis O’Neil; Venue: Catherine • May 1, 2004, Conversing and Connecting from the Heart Part I, of Alexandria - Temecula. a discussions and study Filipino American youth between the
• October 12, 2002, Multicultural Family Day – Unity in ages of 14 and 19 years old; attended by 75 parents and 60 Diversity; an all day event sponsored by the Hispanic Affairs, Filipino American teen-agers; Purpose: to conduct an in-depth Asian Pacific Islander Ministry, Assembly for Catholics of look on the Filipino American family dynamics and psychologies African Descent, Native American Ministry, Office of Social to help better understand the cultural and value conflicts Concerns and Office of Worship; the Filipino community encountered by Filipino immigrants and our American born contributed in the liturgy and entertainment, lunch and children at home, school and church settings; Facilitators: Dr. cultural exhibitions; Venue: Aquinas High School. Jocelyn Pacleb, PHD, a lecturer of Asian American Studies and Filipina/o American Studies from CSU, Fullerton and Project • October 25, 2002, Simbang Gabi 2002 Formation Workshop leaders Theresa Palang, MBA, and Grace Lacsamana, MA, from held at St. Thomas the Apostle Parish. The Simbang Gabi St. Christopher Church, Moreno Valley; a survey questionnaire workshop challenged participants to prepare liturgies that are with a focus on Parent and Youth Background Information, authentically Filipino and liturgies that provide opportunities to Filipino Cultural Values and Practices, Communication and bring other cultural groups together with the Filipino in this Issues and Concerns of Filipino American Families specially celebration. The workshop was presented by Kathleen designed for the study by Dr. Pacleb was used; Venue: St. Estrella, a musician from the Diocese of San Bernardino. Christopher – Moreno Valley.