•A3 Education fundamental to

environmental protection
•B1 If you want to
cultivate peace,
•C1 UGNAYAN
The News Supplement
and peace, says Holy Father protect creation of Couples for Christ

PPCRV taps cable TV

operators for voters’
education
THE Parish Pastoral Council for Respon-
sible Voting (PPCRV) has teamed up with
the country’s biggest organization of cable
television operators for its voters’ education
program.
The church-backed poll watchdog has en-
tered into a memorandum of agreement with
the Philippine Cable Television Association,
Inc. for an effective public education on the
January 4 - 17, 2010 Vol. 14 No. 1 Php 20.00 automated elections in 2010.
Cable TV / A7

Pope: End hostility—protect

kids, planet
By Roy Lagarde
ON New Year’s Day, Pope Benedict XVI has called for a change
in personal lifestyles to save the planet as he celebrated a Mass in
Vatican to mark the start of 2010.
In his traditional New Year’s Day address, Benedict XVI also called for peace and
the protection of children.
Jan. 1 is the Roman Catholic Church’s World Day of Peace, and the Pope appealed to
armed groups to “stop, reflect and abandon the way of violence”.
“Respect others, regardless of their skin color, nationality, language, religion,” said
the leader of the world’s 1.1 billion Catholics.
The Pontiff added that the value of respect for all should be taught from an early age.

Ecological duty
According to the Pontiff, the people need to change how they live their lives and
called for “ecological responsibility” to be taught in schools.

© CBCP Media
Recalling that world leaders had gathered in Copenhagen last month for the U.N.
climate conference, he said individuals and families had as important a role to play too
in saving the planet.
“Nevertheless, in this moment, I would like to underline the importance of the choices
Ambassador Henrietta de Villa, chairperson of the Central Coordinating Committee of the Second National Congress of the Clergy, delivers a
of individuals, families and local administrations in preserving the environment,” message during the launching of the congress’ official website (www.clergycongress2.org) at Pope Pius XII Center last December 10, 2009.
Benedict XVI said. De Villa lauds the creation of the website, designed to assist priests and lay people alike by providing them with updates, news and multimedia
End hostility / A6 resources about the congress.

Choose reliable leaders to lead the Priests’ congress

country, CBCP chief urges voters
UNDERSCORING the need for institutional
change to effect good governance in the country,
the head of the Catholic hierarchy urged the people
to exercise their right of suffrage intelligently in
the coming elections.
President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference
of the Philippines (CBCP) and Tandag Bishop
Nereo Odchimar, in a New Year's message said,
the upcoming 2010 election is an opportunity for
Filipinos “to put into office reliable leaders who
would guide our nation in the coming years.”
“2010 in our political life is an election year; people
through the exercise of their right of suffrage, will
effect a power shift in the executive and legislative
branches of our civil government,” Odchimar said.
“We must retain what is good, promote what
still needs improvement and discard what is base
and corrupt,” he stressed.
But the prelate admitted that patronage politics
are still the call of the day with many electorates
still beholden to politicians who dole out money
and favors in exchange for their votes.
“A number of us have remained myopic by
focusing our attention only to the satisfaction of
the moment, swayed by the glitter of money and
promises of patronage, and do not raise our eyes
beyond election time to the resultant situation cre-
ated by our indiscretion,” he lamented.
“Those who have allowed, much worse abetted,
corruption to thrive in our midst, do not have the
right to complain,” Odchimar further said.
But he said as every voter holds the key to a bet-
ter future for the country, there is a need for elector-
ates to be informed through voters’ education.
He also urged citizens to be vigilant and resist
any attempts by ruthless politicians and their min-
ions to thwart the genuine will of the people.
“If we were a part of the problem yesterday, we
can also be a part of the solution today. We hold
Bishop Nereo Odchimar
the key to a better tomorrow,” the CBCP president
stressed.
The poor constitute the greater part of the
country’s population. They are often wooed by
politicians during campaign period with promises
of “poverty alleviation, “more jobs” and a better
future—pledges that often dissolve in thin air once
leaders are elected into office.
Odchimar said the economic situation of the
people would have been far better than it was
generations back had leaders only shown some
political will in exercising their leadership.
He said there is a need for social transformation;
but it can only happen if it starts with oneself.
“Election is an opportunity we cannot afford to
miss. Over and above the factors beyond our ca-
pacity, with our great faith in God and in ourselves,
we can still make our wish for a happy new year
a reality,” he said.
“…Its realization is within reach. Now, more
than ever, we hold the promise of a happier Philip-
pines, despite the tragedies that happened in the
preceding year,” said the prelate.
Citing the Catholic Church as example, Odchi-
mar said there’s need for institutions to change if
it is to go forward.
“No less than the late Holy Father, Pope John
XXIII of holy memory, said when he convoked
the Second Vatican Council: ‘Ecclesia semper re-
formanda est.’ (The Church must always be in the
process of reform).” (Pinky Barrientos, FSP)
seeks spiritual
renewal of clergy
FOCUSING on the interior renewal of the
clergy in this year dedicated for priests, an in-
tense five-day national priests’ congress will be
held this month that will gather diocesan and
religious clergy around the country.
The second National Congress of the Clergy
set on January 25-29 at the World Trade Center,
Pasay City will be days of spiritual reflection
and profound prayer for priests aimed at pro-
viding them a deep religious experience “that
will hopefully lead to spiritual conversion and
greater commitment.”
More of a spiritual retreat in dynamics, the
congress aims to bring the clergy to a deep-
ening of their pastoral commitment through
interior renewal.
Msgr. Gerry Santos, program committee
member said the retreat has the following dy-
namics: prayer and liturgy, conferences, group
reflection and journal writing and encounter
with host families.
“These activities will help achieve an atmo-
sphere of prayerful reflection and presbyteral
fellowship,” he explained.
Fr. Raniero Cantalamessa, a Franciscan Capu-
chin and preacher of the Papal household will de-
liver five conferences that will delve on the theme
“Faithfulness of Christ, Faithfulness of Priests”,
which the Holy Father has chosen as theme for
the celebration of the Year for Priests.
Clergy / A6

2010 crucial year for RP, says Cardinal Christians, Muslims youth meet to
celebrate God’s gift of creation
A HIGH-ranking Church official said Highlighting the significance of peace
2010 is a crucial year for the nation as in his Christmas message, the Cardinal
people will choose leaders who will said it is a consequence of a good choice,
govern the country in the upcoming “whether the choice is to have enough to
elections. eat or to select a man who will honestly SOME 600 Christian and Muslim youth communities in the city. The creative tion seminars, symposia, regular forma-
In a Christmas Message, Manila Arch- lead others to progress.” representing various schools, commu- activity allowed the participants to tions and other activities conducted
bishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales said “Any person, who performs real nities, youth groups and organizations express their hopes and aspirations throughout the year are gathered annu-
the real solution to election problems good, no matter how imperceptible that gathered in an annual assembly of for dialogue and peace. Winners were ally for the Harmony Youth Day.
does not depend good act is, will young people to celebrate God’s gift awarded during the event and their Former youth coordinators Ahmad
on automation but inevitably bring in of creation. works displayed in the site. Alawaddin and Norbert Solina each
on the electorates’ peace,” he added. The annual youth gathering dubbed The recently concluded Harmo- Creation / A6
responsible and But he admit- Harmony Youth Day was held on De- ny Youth Day
much prayed for ted that with the cember 19, 2009 at the Hadji Nuño and served as the
choice of candi- current practice in Fr. Di Guardo Auditorium, Harmony final activity in
dates. Philippine poli- Village, at Pitogo, Sinunuc, Zamboanga celebration of the
“The coming tics, what he said City. 25th anniversary
year 2010 is the na- seemed too diffi- Themed “Youth In journey: Explore, of the Movement
tion’s year of choice cult to achieve. Rediscover and Experience God’s Gift of and the ten years’
for honest, selfless “This is the rea- Creation”, the assembly was organized existence of Sil-
and God-fearing son why we need by Silpeace youth program of the Silsi- peace in sharing
leaders who will the reminders of lah Dialogue Movement. the spirituality
serve with hones- the Lord, who came Youth participants who came from of dialogue. Sil-
ty, simplicity and teaching people the Zamboanga City and as far as Jolo, peace was for-
humility,” he de- need for discipline Sulu showed their gratitude to God for mally launched
clared. and sacrifice (un- his gift of creation in the form of songs, in 1999.
Rosales said the Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales der the expression dances and theatrical presentations. Young people
people had enough of “arrogant lead- of the cross) in order to attain the path The youth day began with a motor- who have partici-
ers” who think of themselves as the to peace and success,” he said. cade from the city center to the assembly pated in various
Illustration by Bladimer Usi

solution to the country’s woes. But peace cannot be attained even site. SilPeace Performing Arts opened activities spear-
These politicians who “thought that with all the best efforts of government the whole day affair with a playlet on headed by Sil-
the nation could not go forward without to stop wars and violence, if the action loving and nurturing God’s creation. peace program
them, had always been failures; and is obscured by “greed and dishonest Prior to the assembly, a poster making such as youth
they had, unfortunately, brought the behavior”. contest was organized that was joined camps, culture of
country down with them”, he added. Crucial / A6 by the different schools, colleges and dialogue orienta-
 World News
CBCP Monitor
A2 Vol. 14 No. 1
January 4 - 17, 2010

Pope sees reasons for hope

in New Year VATICAN CITY, Jan. 4, 2010—Pope Benedict XVI delivered a stirring message from the window of
his apartment in the Vatican Palace above a packed St. Peter’s Square on Sunday. Before reciting the
Angelus, he welcomed the New Year with an invitation to hope and a reminder that the faithful have
a responsibility to collaborate with God.
The Pope began by saying that despite problems in the Church, the world and our family lives, we
can always trust in God to be our hope, a hope that does not rely on “improbable prognostications” or
“economic forecasts.” This is also not a hope in a “generic religiosity, or in a fatalism feigned as faith.”
“We trust in the God that revealed completely and definitively in Jesus Christ His will to be with man,
to share his story, to guide us all to His kingdom of love and life,” continued the Holy Father.
The Pontiff referred to the three biblical readings from Sunday’s Eucharistic liturgy as being “of extraor-
dinary wealth” in illuminating this revelation. “These texts,” he explained, “affirm that God is not only
creator of the universe—an aspect also in common to other religions—but that He is the Father….”
Through these readings, Benedict XVI said, we know that God chose us as His adopted children,
first among creation, and even made himself man to live among us, thus, making “all of the fullness
of divinity” bodily present.
The true reason for us to have hope, continued the Pope, is “the meaning given to history because it
is ‘inhabited’ by the Wisdom of God.”
However, he noted, this “divine design” does not come about on its own, but is a “project of love,”
which generates and asks for freedom.
© suzannesdailydance.blogspot.com

“Each man and woman is responsible for taking Him in to their own lives, day by day.”
Thus, said the Pope, the value of the year 2010 for us is contingent on our ability to “collaborate with
the grace of God,” according to our individual responsibilities.
The Pontiff concluded by using the example of the Virgin Mary as a spiritual model, because when
she gave her consent the Son of God was conceived.
“Each time the Lord wants to take a step ahead, together with us, towards the ‘promised land,’ he
calls first to our hearts, (and) waits for … our ‘yes’, in the big and the small choices.”
After the Angelus, the Benedict XVI greeted all the English-speakers in the crowd, calling them to be “wit-
nesses to the light that enlightens the whole of creation” like John the Baptist in Sunday’s Gospel. (CNA)

Holy Father planning an intense 2010

ROME, Jan. 1, 2010—The year promises to be the busiest yet for
Benedict XVI's pontificate, as the almost-83-year-old-Pope is plan-
ning four international trips and a synod on the Middle East.
The year 2010 looks to be one of the most intense of his five years
in the Chair of Peter. The Pope will turn 83 on April 16, but this does
not affect how quickly his calendar fills up.
The Holy Father will visit Malta, Portugal, Cyprus and the United
Kingdom during 2010. He will also preside over the first synod on
the Middle East, and his several pilgrimages within Italy will include
celebrations as momentous as a visit to the Shroud of Turin.
It also promises to be a year when the expected will come to pass:
Pope John Paul II might be beatified (though the Vatican has repeat-
edly reiterated that his cause must follow the normal path leading to
beatification), and the second part of Benedict XVI's bestseller "Jesus
of Nazareth" could be published. As well, his apostolic exhortation
taking up the conclusions of the 2008 synod on the Word of God
could be released.
The year beginning today is also expected to bring forward causes
that the German Pope has made a priority: advances in Christian unity,
and unity with other religions, particularly Islam and Judaism.
In fact, one of the most symbolic events of the year will be his Jan.
17 visit to the Synagogue of Rome. That trip will take place just weeks
after some Jews have protested the Holy Father's official recognition
of the heroic virtues of his predecessor, Pope Pius XII.
In reviewing 2009 with the Roman Curia, Benedict XVI observed
that last year developed in the light of Africa. The synod on Africa
in Rome and the Holy Father's first trip to the continent as Pontiff
marked 2009. In this regard, 2010 will be a year in the light of the
Middle East, given that the synod to discuss that region is scheduled
for Oct. 10-24.
The Pope will officially present the working document for the
synod during his visit to Cyprus from June 4 to 6.
That trip is symbolic for other reasons because it will bring to
light certain central themes of the pontificate, such as dialogue with
the local Orthodox Church. That Church, since the 2006 election of
Chrysostomos II, has become a leader in ecumenical efforts, as well
as a promoter of interreligious dialogue with Islam, due to Turkish
presence on the divided island.
Benedict XVI's first 2010 trip out of Italy will bring him to Malta,
April 17-18. The visit will mark the 1,950th anniversary of St. Paul's
shipwreck there, which tradition holds to have taken place in A.D.
60. Paul was headed to Rome, but instead was welcomed by the local
population and spent three months evangelizing the archipelago,
which is still majority Catholic.
Then the Pontiff will head to Portugal in May, a visit that includes

Pontiff helps inaugurate Holy Year

a pilgrimage to Lourdes—one more stop on what has become his
world tour of Marian shrines including Loreto, Italy; Altötting,
Germany; Mariazell, Austria; Aparecida, Brazil; Lourdes, France;
Mvolye, Cameroon; and Pompeii, Italy.

of St. James in Spain

SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA, Spain,
Jan. 4, 2010—In his greeting to Spanish-
speakers, Pope Benedict XVI recalled
the recent opening of the Holy Year of
St. James at the Cathedral of Santiago
de Compostela. The Pontiff urged the
faithful to remain open to being “illumi-
nated by Christ” as throngs of pilgrims
have sought to do on The Way of St.
James pilgrimage for centuries.
The Holy Door was opened on De-
cember 31 to begin the Holy Year of
the Apostle St. James at the supposed
site of his burial in the Cathedral of
Santiago de Compostela.
The Door is re-opened at the begin-
The fourth international trip will bring the Pope to the United
Kingdom. Though the dates have not been officially announced, it
is expected that he will be in England between the 17th and 19th
of September.
While there, it is expected that the Pontiff will beatify Cardinal
call to evangelization for the men and John Henry Newman (1801-1890), an intellectual Anglican convert.
women of today, recalling the essen- That visit will obviously have decisive ecumenical repercussions in
tially pilgrim nature of the Church and light of last year's Oct. 20 announcement that paves the way for An-
of Christians of this world.” glicans to come to full communion with the Holy See in groups.
The letter included a special call to cler- There are also four apostolic trips within Italy already on the
gy, “whose spirit of welcome and com- papal agenda. The first is to Turin on May 2, during the extraor-
mitment to the faithful and to pilgrims dinary exposition of the Shroud that will take place from April 10
has to be particularly generous” during to May 23. In July, the Holy Father will visit the region affected by
this Holy Year. The Pope implored them last April's earthquake. That visit will mark the 800th anniversary
to pay special attention to administering of the birth of Pope Celestine V (who died in 1296), one of the few
the Sacraments of Penance and the Eu- popes to abdicate.
charist, because “the most sought-after, In September, Benedict XVI will visit Carpineto Romano, a small
valuable and characteristic element of town of the Roman province, to celebrate the 200th anniversary of
the Holy Year is forgiveness and the the birth of Pope Leo XIII.
encounter with the living Christ.” And finally, in October, the Holy Father will visit Palermo to
The Holy Father closed his let- participate in meetings with families and youth.
© walktocompostela.blogspot.com

ning of every year in which the feast day
of St. James, July 25, falls on a Sunday.
The last time this took place was in 2004,
and the next time will be in 2021.
In a letter sent to the Archbishop
Julian Barrio Barrio of Santiago de
Compostela for the inauguration of
the Holy Year, Benedict XVI wrote that
theme for the Year, “On a pilgrimage
towards the light,” should serve “as a
Paraguayan archbishop says creation must be protected
ter with a word for the individual Not to be overlooked in 2010 is the closing of the Year for Priests,
pilgrims who might have the op- with June 9-11 events in Rome. The Holy Father has invited the
portunity to walk The Way this year, priests of the world to participate in the celebrations marking the
asking them not to forget to pray for 150th anniversary of the death of St. John Vianney. But he has also
those unable to accompany them. He asked the faithful of every walk of life to include themselves in the
also counseled them “to treasure the celebrations by expressing the Church's love for its priests. (Zenit)
profound experiences of faith, charity
and fraternity they encounter on their
journey, and to seek especially to live
St. James / A7
The Holy Door is only open in years when St. James Day is on a
Sunday. Vatican expresses grief for
death of Japanese cardinal
VATICAN CITY, Jan. 4, 2010—Car-

to build peace
ASUNCION, Paraguay, Jan. astation and abuse of the en- “The struggle against the
5, 2010—Archbishop Pastor vironment to continue will pollution of water and air, and dinal Peter Seiichi Shirayanagi,
© www.flickr.com/photos/8680541@N04

Cuquejo of Asuncion in Para-
guay called on the faithful to
build peace by protecting cre-
ation and understanding nature
as a “gift” which makes the
“survival of man” possible.
In his message for the New
Year, Archbishop Cuquejo
warned that allowing the dev-
lead to dire consequences for
humanity, such as “the loss of
peace.”
The archbishop explained
that protecting the environ-
ment enables man to enjoy “the
appropriate, if not optimum,
conditions for developing his
existence in this world.”
against the rampant deforesta-
tion of our country, should be
an on-going commitment of all
citizens,” he said.
The archbishop added that
there must be no compromise
with those who are “destroying
creation and thus the dignity of
each person.” The protection of
Archbishop Emeritus of Tokyo, died
the environment, he continued, at the age of 81 on December 30. The
“has to do with love of neighbor Japanese cardinal was remembered
and the promotion of peace; it by the Pope for his “unfailing com-
has to do with the love of God,” mitment to the spread of the Gospel
who is the Creator. in Japan.”
Archbishop Cuquejo also Cardinal Shirayanagi was ordained
urged that young people be a priest in 1954, made bishop in
Peace / A7 1966 and was appointed as titular
archbishop in 1970. He was created

Malaysian protesters and hackers target Catholic newspaper after ‘Allah’ ruling
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Jan. 5, 2010—
Following the Malaysian High Court’s ap-
proval of a Catholic newspaper’s use of the
word “Allah” for God, hundreds of Muslim
youth have protested and the newspaper’s
© www.reuters.com
and made a cardinal in 1994 by Pope C a r d i n a l P e t e r S e i i c h i
John Paul II. Shirayanagi
Many initiatives were carried out under his direction within
website has been hacked several times. and was found to be hacked once again by the institutions of the Catholic Church of Japan. Among the most
The Herald, the country’s only Catholic CNA staff on the morning of Jan. 4. noteworthy achievements were his involvement in promoting
publication, has been threatened with the Fr. Lawrence Andrew, the editor of the unity between Japanese Catholics and Catholics in other Asian
loss of its printing license for using “Allah” Herald, told the Malaysian Insider that states and his efforts to promote global peace and disarmament.
to name the Christian God in its Malay- technicians have confirmed the cyber attacks Cardinal Shirayanagi was a pioneer in reaching out to other
language section. took place and the website was operating Catholics in Asia. In 1989, he led a landmark delegation of Japanese
The newspaper normally. Catholics to meet with their Chinese counterparts on equal terms
argued that its us- He declined to comment in detail, saying to seek forgiveness for sins committed by the Japanese Imperial
age follows cen- he did not want to add to the tension on a Army against the Chinese, to promote solidarity among all Catho-
turies of tradition, “very sensitive” issue. lics and help rebuild Catholic structures within the country.
while the Malay- In Penang, about 250 members of the As Chairman of the Episcopal Commission for Social Activities
sian government group Umno Youth conducted street pro- in the 1970’s, he was able to create active evangelization policies,
argued the us- tests in front of the High Court building to including those that addressed the problems of refugees, foreign
age by Christians protest the decision. aid and discriminatory legislation.
would confuse The Malaysian Insider says that protest- Pope Benedict XVI spoke warmly of the cardinal in a telegram
Muslims. ers shouted “seditious” obscenities in their addressed to Archbishop of Tokyo, Most Rev. Peter Takeo
On Dec. 31 protests. Okada. In the letter, the Holy Father expressed his sorrow at
Judge Lau Bee Opponents of the ruling are also using the loss of Cardinal Shirayanagi but also his gratitude for the
Lan ruled in the social networking sites like Facebook to rally

prelate’s “unfailing commitment to the spread of the Gospel in

Herald’s favor. support and to call for the ruling’s reversal. Japan in his many years as priest and bishop, his work for the
On Jan. 2 the Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Na- promotion of justice and peace, and his tireless efforts on behalf
Herald’s website jib Razak has said the Home Ministry will of refugees.” (CNA)
was hacked twice appeal the ruling. (CNA)
 News Features
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 1
January 4 - 17, 2010
A3

Education fundamental to
environmental protection and
peace, says Holy Father
VATICAN, Jan. 1, 2010—Pope Benedict XVI celebrated the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God in Mass
on January 1, a day which also marks the 43rd World Day for Peace. In his homily, the Pontiff made an
appeal for investment in education based on respect for the human being and, in turn, for the protec-
tion of the environment and peace in the world.
The Pope’s message for the World Day for Peace 2010, "If you want to cultivate peace, protect creation,"
was presented in his homily on Friday at St. Peter’s Basilica. The Pope pointed to the revelation of the
"Face of God" throughout Scripture and its manifestation in the birth of Christ as a point of meditation
for bringing peace to the world.
The Pontiff said that we can see the reflection of the vision of God on the world today through the
faces of innocent children, who make "a silent appeal to our responsibility." In light of their "defense-
lessness," said Benedict XVI, all justifications for war and violence cease to be valid. "We should simply
convert ourselves to projects of peace, put down weapons of all types and work together to build a
world worthy of man," exhorted the Pope.
Benedict XVI underscored that the "privileged way" which leads to peace is our ability to recognize
in each other, "a brother in humanity," regardless of skin color, religion or origin.
"From the time we are young, it’s important to be educated to respect others, even when they are
different from us," the Holy Father continued.

© www.flickr.com/photos/34131608@N07
The Pontiff also called for renewed respect for "human ecology," due to the close relationship between
respect for man and the preservation of creation. "If man is degraded, the environment in which he
lives is also degraded," he stated.
The Pope concluded by appealing for an investment in an education not only based on technical or scien-
tific notions, but one focused on the "respect for man and his rights and fundamental responsibilities."
Only in this way, he said, that commitment to the environment can truly be a tool for the construc-
tion of peace.
Among the many clergy concelebrating Mass with the Pope were Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal
Tarcisio Bertone, and the President emeritus of the Pontifical Council of Justice and Peace, Cardinal
Renato Raffaele Martino. (CNA)

Pope offers thanks for 2009, encourages solidarity in 2010

VATICAN, Dec. 31, 2009—As 2009 came to a close and a new year
was about to be ushered in, Pope Benedict XVI invited the world's
Christians to look beyond the passage of time toward eternity.
Presiding over an evening prayer service with eucharistic ado-
ration and the singing of a special hymn of thanksgiving to God
Dec. 31, the pope said that with the birth of Christ earthly time was
"touched by Christ" and took on a "new and surprising meaning: it
became the time of salvation and grace."
The prayer service in St. Peter's Basilica was the pope's first
public liturgy in the basilica since Christmas Eve when a mentally
disturbed woman leapt over a barrier and knocked the pope down
as he processed to the altar.
Italian state and military police were out in force New Year's Eve,
keeping everyone out of St. Peter's Square until they showed their
ticket for the liturgy and passed through a metal detector or were
cleared by an officer with a metal-detecting wand.
© communio.stblogs.org
and forward to the new year recognizing that God has transformed
human history into the history of salvation.
"The various events of our lives — important or small, simple
or undecipherable, joyful or sad" — should be understood in the
context of God's great love for each person and the invitation he
extends to everyone to set out toward "a goal that is beyond time
itself: eternity," the pope said.
"God became human and gives human beings the unheard of pos-
sibility of being children of God," he said. "This fills us with great
joy and leads us to raise our praises to God."
"With our voices, our hearts and our lives, we are called to say our
thanks to God for the gift of his son, who is the source and fulfill-
ment of all the other gifts" with which God has blessed humanity,
the pope said.
Pope Benedict encouraged Catholics to make a New Year's resolu-
tion to spend more time reading the Bible so that they could become

After the prayer service, the pope went by popemobile into St.
Peter's Square where, under an increasingly heavy rain, he visited
the Vatican's Nativity scene. While the Swiss Guard band played
Christmas hymns, the pope entered the grotto housing the larger-
than-life-sized figures of the Holy Family and knelt in prayer.
In his homily, the pope said people must look back at the past year
more credible witnesses to God's loving plan of salvation.
"The word believed, proclaimed and lived gives rise to acts of soli-
darity and sharing," he said. While thanking Catholics for their acts
of charity in 2009, the pope said he wanted "to encourage everyone to
continue their commitment to alleviating the difficulties in which many
families still find themselves because of the economic crisis." (CNS)

Archbishop calls for ‘inter-generational justice’ Asian countries adopt CBCP’s

in climate change dialogue Exodus program for migrant workers
MANILA, Dec. 21, 2009—Cagayan de Oro Archbishop Anto- ing occurrence of MANILA, Dec. 16, 2009─A formation program for pastoral workers under the
nio Ledesma, former Vice President of the Catholic Bishops droughts, floods auspices of the Episcopal Commission for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and
Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) and Lead Convenor and landslides. Itinerant People (ECMI) of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines
of the Climate Change Congress of the Philippines (CCCP) Farming, a risky (CBCP) has recently been adopted by neighboring Asian countries for training
held last December 17, 2009, has called for “inter-generational business, has never their migrant workers.
justice” urging a stronger global and Philippine response to been riskier due The Exodus program provides pastoral workers the opportunity to learn
the challenge of climate change. to climate change more about migration realities and let them appreciate the work they had
Quoting the Vatican’s latest encyclical ‘Caritas en Veritate’, which requires been doing.
Ledesma told a multi-sectoral dialogue on climate change greater govern- Organized by the Catholic Bishops Conference of Malaysia, Brunei and
governance that the Church is seeking a pro-poor solution mental support. Singapore, the seminar was held in Majodi Pastoral Center in Johor, Malaysia
to the varied environmental and socio-economic problems The dialogue from December 3-6, 2009.
facing the country. also highlighted Archbishop Antonio Ledesma, SJ Bishop Paul Tan Chee Ing, the current president of the Episcopal Com-
The multi-sectoral dialogue, with representatives from the need for asset reform, particularly the fuller implemen- mission for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and itinerant People of the Bishops
a cross section of society was held at the University of the tation of agrarian reform and the transformation of small Conference of Malaysia, Brunei and Singapore celebrated the Eucharist at the
Philippines’ School of Labor and Industrial Relations (UP farmers into modern “ecological agribusiness warriors”. opening day of seminar.
SOLAIR) in Diliman, Quezon City. Fr. Edwin Corros, ECMI executive secretary, together with Dr. Marla Asis
Among the pressing issues tackled were the concerns of Organic farming and Dr. Fabio Baggio of the Scalabrini Migration Center facilitated the forma-
the urban poor, who decried some of the unjust responses of Dr. Teodoro Mendoza, a food security expert from UP Los tion seminar.
government to the climate change such as the large-scale de- Baños, argued the need for a national shift toward organic The Exodus Formation Seminar was first initiated in 2001 by Scalabrini
molition of urban poor dwellings without any comprehensive or bio-farming to enable the country to become food secure, Migration Center, but it is now under the direction of the CBCP’s commission
program of job creation and housing relocation. reduce oil inputs in agricultural production and raise a on migrants.
healthier generation of Filipinos. Corros spoke on the topic of building awareness, pastoral care and advo-
Urban poor and farmers’ concerns This was supported by labor economist Dr. Rene Ofreneo, cacy for migrants and refugees. He also discussed the pastoral planning for
Urban poor groups and coastal/bay fisherfolk called for who batted for a re-thinking in the existing policy framework the ministry of migrants and refugees drawing from his own experience as
fair on-site or in-city relocation to ease the pain of commuting in favour of greener but value-adding approaches to indus- executive secretary of the CBCP’s migrants’ commission.
to and from their places of work. trial and agricultural development. Baggio, director of the Scalabrini Migration Center (SMC), a leading research
The farm sector groups also voiced their fears about declin- For their part, representatives from the Department of Energy and study institution specializing on human mobility based in Asia, gave par-
ing harvests due to changing climate patterns and increas- Dialogue / A7
ticipants an understanding of the theological readings of migration.
Asis, editor of the Asian and Pacific Migration Journal of the SMC, presented
the trends, flows and gender dimension of migration from the global to Asian
Seafarers’ NGO assails anti-migrant amendments on Migrants’ Act perspective.
A select group of resource speakers from three countries of the bishops’
MANILA, Dec. 26, 2009—The Interna- fictitious loans to overseas Filipino or strategic legal action against public conference had likewise shared an overview of the migrants and refugees’
tional Seafarers’ Action Center (ISAC) workers (OFWs) and those who impose participation,” said de la Cruz. situation in their respective countries.
Philippines Foundation, Inc. has issued the signing of postdated checks and Strengthen civil society participation
a critique on the proposed amendments false acknowledgment documents, on persecution against illegal recruit- “A dream come true”
on Migrants Act of 1995, stressing that must be penalized as principals by in- ment A member of the organizing committee, Cheryl Lee, hailed the formation
it will be detrimental not only to the dispensable participation in the crime Moreover, civil society organizations seminar as “a dream come true”, saying that it was what they had been wish-
seafarers, but to the migrant sector as of illegal recruitment. (CSOs) and NGO personnel who help ing for many years to undergo.
a whole. “This is especially true if the collec- OFW must also be included in the enu- Originally designed as a week-long course, the seminar was shortened to
ISAC president Atty. Edwin S. de la tion of placement fee and interest are meration under Item #39, page 4 of the three days to adjust to the realities of the countries involved in the formation
Cruz, on December 22 said although excessive and constitute the crime of proposed new Migrants Act. program.
some of the amendments are commend- illegal recruitment per se or if there is no “After the phrase “In the filing of Mostly attended by lay people, several of the 60 participants are already
able, there are some things lacking. real job abroad,” de la Cruz said. cases for illegal recruitment,” the fol- actively involved in the ministry while a few others are engaged in the pastoral
“The imposition of higher penalties Nevertheless, the signing or endorse- lowing phrase should be added: “the care of the refugees. In a rare occasion to undergo formation, priests and reli-
for illegal recruitment is commendable, ment of any postdated check by OFWs affidavits and testimonies of operatives gious took a break from their parish commitment and flew to the peninsular
but the downgrading of certain acts ini- under the above scheme cannot be or personnel from the DOLE, POEA and Malaysia to attend the seminar.
tially punishable as illegal recruitment made the basis for criminal prosecution other law enforcement agencies or pri- The delegates went back to their respective dioceses with renewed commit-
to mere “prohibited acts” with lesser under the Bouncing Check Law (Batas vate individuals from non-government ment and full of enthusiasm in their work among the migrants and refugees.
penalties and without the economic Pambansa 22) or under Article 315 of organizations, trade unions, workers Some participants had expressed their intention to invite the three speak-
sabotage provision does not afford the Revised Penal Code for estafa, he associations, and civil society, who ers from Manila to bring the Exodus program to Singapore and Sabah at the
adequate protection to labor. Many of furthered. witnessed the acts constituting the of- second half of 2010.
these so-called prohibited acts should “Any such criminal case filed against fense shall be admissible in evidence The Exodus program in Malaysia was a concrete result of the meetings among
be punishable as illegal recruitment,” any OFW shall be summarily dismissed and, when deemed sufficient, shall be Asian bishops held in Manila and Thailand in 2008.
the labor lawyer said, referring to the at the preliminary investigation stage enough to convict the accused,” he According to the ECMI, Malaysia is the third country that requested for the
amendments to the Section 5 of the or the pre-trial conference by the Trial furthered. Exodus seminar after that of Korea and Japan which had the seminar twice.
Migrants Act. Judge, motu propio, or by motion of the In Section 7, de la Cruz asserts that Both countries have since established a very active migrants’ commission for
He explained that lending institu- OFW or by any party. It shall be treated the three month cap provision must their respective episcopal conference. (CBCPNews/Fr. Edwin Corros)
tions, entities or persons who provide as a harassment case or as a SLAPP case, Amendments / A6
A4
EDITORIAL
Peace and the environment
THE old Latin saw, Si viz pacem para bellum (if you want peace
prepare for war) that is historically attributed to the Roman military
writer Publius Flavius Vegetius Renatus, has inspired political
leaders from the third century until lately when stockpiling nuclear
arsenal was meant to deter, or so it seemed, global strife.
With no reference to Leo Tolstoy’s novel that surrounds Napoleon’s
invasion of Russia, the relationship of war and peace has bred
numerous principles in the art of war—or the art of peace, if you
may. But to include environment to the equation would be, at
first blush, startling. For, what business does environment have
in establishing peace?
But this was exactly the message of Pope Benedict XVI during the
43rd World Day of Peace that was celebrated on January 1—“If you
want to cultivate peace, protect creation.” This is new and this is
radical, although the Pope traces back the idea to John Paul II’s earlier
messages on world peace and even to Leo XIII’s Rerum Novarum.
The Pontiff’s logic is premised on the perspective that the protection
of creation and peacemaking are profoundly linked. He establishes
the strong bond that exists between caring for the environment and
cultivating a cosmic vision of peace by developing a theology of
creation, human development and intergenerational solidarity, among
others. He says: “The quest for peace by people of goodwill surely
would become easier if all acknowledge the indivisible relationship
between God, human beings and the whole of creation.”
He warns that unless the human family responds to the need to
protect creation with a “renewed sense of social justice and equity,
and of international solidarity, we run the risk of sowing seeds
of violence among peoples, and between current generations and
those to come.”
In 1988, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines
(CBCP) in its landmark statement on the environment titled What
is Happening to our Beautiful Land, has already warned of political
and social unrest if the environment is neglected. “We are well
aware that, for the vast majority of Filipinos, the scars of nature,
which increasingly we see all around us, mean less nutritious food,
poorer health and uncertain future. This will inevitably lead to an
increase in political and social unrest.”
With the same logic, that, indeed, is in the offing.
Decade of Peace—Suggested Agenda
BECAUSE we believe that peace is not simply the absence of war
but the fruit of justice and love, as a collegial body of Pastors we
wholeheartedly support the government’s declaration of a Decade
of Peace, 1990-2000. It will be, as declared, a decade of peace
and to peace in our land.
For this Decade of Peace, we suggest the following agenda as
among those that are essentially required by “the path to peace”
(Lk. 19:42):
• Transforming values and mentalities into those that are truly
oriented to God and to the common good: We need to be a
people—and to have leaders—who are maka-Diyos and maka-
bayan. Disvalues such as selfishness and greed must give way
to generosity and sharing.
• Dismantling the structures (systems, e.g., ways of relating and
acting in economic and political life supported by laws, policies
and entrenched practices) that favor the few and discriminate
against the great majority of our people. Monopolies and a system
of taxation that lies too heavily on those who have less are such
structures that need urgent change.
• Designing and implementing truly transformative programs
of agrarian reform, ecological promotion, and socio-economic
development geared towards the eradication of gross imbalances
and disparities and permeated by a sensitive care for people and for
the earth. Today, we still seem, for instance, unable to implement
our laws against indiscriminate and illegal logging.
• Peacefully resolving questions of self-determination of various
groups in our country within the context of national sovereignty,
problems such as posed by the MILF, MNLF, and CPLA.
• Coming decisively to a moral and political resolution of the
complex questions that revolve around the tension of national
autonomy and inter-dependence among nations as reflected by
realities such as various foreign economic interests in our country,
our external economic debt, the U.S. military presence, and
inadequate transfer of technological knowledge so necessary for
our economic growth and self-reliance.
• Developing a satisfactory and effective educational system that
should be critical and liberating and could be more responsive to
our country’s needs as well as to the needs of the various members
of the school community.
• Freeing once and for all, our most disenfranchised sectors, the
rural and urban poor, from various forms of bondage, through a
sincere practice of the evangelical option for the poor.
• Effectively checking graft and corruption in private and public
life.
• Conscientiously observing the laws of our country and effectively
delivering socio-economic services to our people. Just taxes, for
instance, have to be paid faithfully and the government must spend
them honestly and wisely for the good of the people.
• Empowering people in law and in fact in order that decision-
making and implementing processes may truly be participatory
and oriented to the common good.
--Seek Peace, Pursue It, A CBCP Pastoral Letter, 1990
www.cbcpmonitor.com
cbcpmonitor@cbcpworld.net
Pedro C. Quitorio
Editor-in-Chief
Pinky Barrientos, FSP Kris P. Bayos
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The CBCP Monitor is published fortnightly by the CBCP Com-
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P.O. Box 3601, 1076 MCPO.
Editorial: (063) 404-2182. Business: (063)404-1612.
ISSN 1908-2940
Opinion CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 1
January 4 - 17, 2010
Illustration by Bladimer Usi
Abp. Antonio J. Ledesma, SJ, DD
Ministries for Peace in
Pastoral Companion Mindanao
THE year 2009 in Cagayan de Oro started
with extensive flooding in January of the
• Indigenous People: Fr. Sabuga and
KASALU, a volunteer group, have organized
constructed home for orphans and neglected
children. The Calabrian Fathers also have
city’s river banks and low-lying areas several meetings of lumad leaders from Mis- two houses for abandoned boys and girls,
throughout the province. Another flash amis Oriental and from all over Mindanao to while the Sacred Heart Fathers are support-
flood occurred in November that disrupted promote IP rights to their ancestral domain. ing a Kasanag Foundation home for girl
the opening days of our Mindanao Week Malitbog Parish is their base of operation. victims of abuse.
of Peace. Several parishes in coordination • Women’s Ministry: The Good Shepherd • Charity Foundations: With the support
with our ACCESS office distributed relief Sisters have set up a Center for Women, of two local foundations, the MCM Sisters
goods. Nazareth Parish initiated a rehabili- including counseling services. Since April, are administering the House of Hope for
tation program for damaged houses along they have provided support and protection the mentally sick and a home for the elderly.
the river. for young women victims of a cybersex Another home for the mentally sick has been
These experiences have prompted our operation uncovered in the city. The court set up in Gingoog by a third foundation.
Ecology Desk to monitor closely our case against two foreign nationals is still • Social Communications: Sr. M.A. Padilla,
environment−i.e., the continued mining ongoing. FSP, and her team have published monthly
operations on the upland area of the city • Migrant Workers: Msgr. Legitimas and newsletters of the archdiocese. They have
and the resumption of logging activities in Sr. Alice, D.C., have concentrated on port also set up at Xavier U and Capitol U a photo
the Gingoog-Claveria watershed area. Com- area activities, involving seamen’s wives and exhibit on Cagayan de Oro’s 75 years as a
pounding this is the proposed bio-ethanol stevedores’ families. diocese (1933-2008). Ongoing efforts are be-
plant that would pollute Cagayan de Oro • Prison Ministry: Fr. Durana, prison ing made to optimize the use of radio and TV
River, ideal for white water rafting. chaplain, ministers to the spiritual needs time for the local church’s message.
Other concerns of our ad extra ministries of detainees in the city and provincial jails • Good Governance: Fr. Lerio and youth
under the Commission on Social Action, with regular Sunday services. The Prison- leaders assisted students in the first-time
headed by Fr. Cabantan, include: ers’ Awareness Week had several activities, registration of voters, together with chapter
• Sustainable Agriculture: Frs. Soldevilla including a mass wedding. members of the Bishops-Businessmen’s
and Lusat have been piloting S.A. practices • Children’s Ministry: The Canossian Conference. They are currently conducting
such as vermiculture and rice-duck farming. Sisters are inaugurating this month a newly- Companion / A6
Fr. Carmelo O. Diola, SSL
Circles of Discernment
for Elections Spaces of Hope
Keeping the flame of people power alive On the other hand, an SWS survey just before the 2007 elections
Heroic Christian citizenship and leadership practiced on a daily concludes that most Filipinos deny self-interest, the bandwagon,
basis is the new name of People Power. A good Christian must also and political machinery. Regarding self-interest, for instance, 79%
strive to be a good citizen and a good leader. We are reminded of of 1,400 respondents nationwide chose to say that “I will vote for
this in the final words of the priest in the novena mass of the Sto. a candidate if most will benefit from him/her even if I myself will
Niño at the Basilica in Cebu: “Go in peace and remember a good not” and only 21% chose to say that “I will vote for a candidate if I
Christian makes for a better citizen.” will personally benefit from him or her, even if most will not.” This
Doing one’s solemn duty of voting wisely during elections is a result and others show a positive stance of voters. Why are such
concrete exercise of good citizenship in the search for good leaders. intentions not translated into reality?
These are two sides of the same coin. As the saying goes, we get the The uneven picture that emerges may suggest some missing
leaders we deserve. links in the process of conscience formation. PCP II 285-286 notes:
Voting wisely is a key ingredient of development. Development, “From the level of moral tendency to the actual practical judgment
the common concern of all social sectors, requires good governance. is a process whereby conscience discerns and judges. Discernment
The latter, in turn, results from principled politics, the fruit of prin- is likewise part of the dimension of conscience. The discernment of
cipled politicians and engaged citizens. How we vote and whom we conscience is a pre-requisite of moral behavior.”
vote for determines the kind of politics we have. What may be missing is a process and mechanism whereby
A play on words on the term “politics” yields the Greek words conscience as a “moral tendency” becomes a “practical moral judg-
polis (“city”) and tiktw (“I give birth”). Those who are engaged in ment” regarding choice of candidates (cf. PCP II 284). This is critical
politics, therefore, are giving birth to the city. Citizens (polites) give since “the more a correct conscience prevails, the more do persons
birth to the city and the birthing process includes voting during elec- and groups turn aside from blind choice and try to be guided by
tions. Politicians, on the other hand, are also called to this birthing the objective standards of moral conduct” (PCP II 286). Hence, it
process through “the art of government and public service” (CBCP is not just “do good and avoid evil” but “do this particular good
1997). The latter is a noble calling. and avoid this particular evil” or “choose this particular good and
Sadly, already more than a decade ago, our bishops point out avoid this particular evil.” To attain this, specific questions must be
that “Philippine politics—the way it is practiced—has been most raised regarding candidates and answers obtained and validated in
hurtful of us as a people.  It is possibly the biggest bane in our life a deliberate, proactive, communal, methodical, and God-centered
as a nation and the most pernicious obstacle to our achieving of full manner.
human development.” The challenges continue. But mechanism is not enough. However well the practical con-
The situation becomes even more painful when we recall that we science is formed on political matters, if there are no good choices,
Filipino Catholics comprise the majority of our people and are pri- people will still continue to fall for the lesser evil. There is need to
marily responsible for building a more just society (CFC 1197). That help good people step up and run for office.
corruption and lack of good governance continue to be rampant in
the country indicate that a just society is still largely a distant dream. Pastoral Accompaniment as key
Yet, while admitting our failures as individuals and as a sector, we The need for such mechanism and options finds a critical and
need to move on and learn from our experiences. paradigm-shifting starting point from Pope Benedict XVI who, last
Several points need to be made. The bishops reiterate that faith 15 November 2008 before the 23rd Plenary Assembly of the Pontifical
is “systematically excluded” in our political culture. This exclusion Council for the Laity, says:
of Christian values begins during elections. One can even say that In a particular way, I confirm the necessity and urgency of the
the original sin of graft and corruption in our country is traceable evangelical formation and pastoral accompaniment of a new gen-
to how patronage politics permeate our elections. eration of Catholics working in politics, that they be coherent with
During elections, many politicians run to win at any and all cost. the professed faith, that they have moral firmness, the capacity of
Election expenses reach insane levels. Many look at elections and educated judgment, professional competence and passion for service
public office as a business venture; political dynasties preserve family to the common good.
interests. Money is invested and “investors” often come from vested “Pastoral accompaniment” was left undefined by the Pope. Dilaab,
and even illegal interests. When payback time comes, the common a faith-impelled movement for social transformation defines it as
good suffers. Present salary levels of elected officials simply cannot “a refuge, sanctuary, or space where people come alongside in a
compensate for the expenses incurred during election. journey together towards integrity for the common good. It is a trust
On the other hand, voters often succumb to the “lesser-evil” syn- relationship growing in a journey of faith, hope, and love, a call to
drome, wrongly thinking that choosing the lesser evil is a teaching of all the faithful, involving discipline and special skills.”
the Church. Choosing the lesser evil eventually leads to more evil. Such pastoral strategy and a corresponding spirituality hold the
A local church recently conducted a survey during a catechist as- key to the Church’s effective, fruitful, and sustainable engagement
sembly asking them what they most or least like about candidates. with other social sectors. It is the fire behind fruitful Church’s contri-
Ranked six for “most like” and “least like” were candidates offering bution towards total human development and the emerging efforts
bigger amounts in buying votes and candidates who are poor, respec- at good governance and principled politics. Without this loving
tively. We are all part of the problem and also part of the solution. Hope / A5
 CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 1
January 4 - 17, 2010
Opinion A5
Oscar V. Cruz, DD Jose B. Lugay

Happy New Year?

Views and Points
THE last Christmas was “Merry”, all right—
for most Filipinos at least, considering the
big havoc brought about by a volcano, not
to mention the many lives lost at sea plus
some loses and pains brought about by house
burning and pyrotechnics exploding here and
there. In other words, the many, loud and
fond greetings of “Merry Christmas!” became
a reality in one way or another, for millions of
Filipinos all over the land. Most of the home-
less managed to get some kind of shelters in
one place or another. In the same way, most
of the poor had some food to eat and enjoy—
courtesy of many people of good will.
But, with all sincerity and truth, it can be
rightfully asked with honesty and candor:
Will this New Year be happy? Are their
real and tenable reasons to expect people’s
happiness on the occasion of the New Year?
In short, would it be fair and square to greet
people a “Happy New Year”? Or would this
Leadership unmoored,
be but an empty habitual gesture of wishful
thinking for the New Year—yet somehow
aware of the imminent political troubles
and social dangers it is about to bring?
May 2010 is calendared and supposedly
national elections time. And the world of
politics specifically during election time and
concretely on the occasion of national elec-
tions, bring about anything except peace and
other, everything but unity and harmony. To
say that this Country is not ready for democ-
racy, not prepared for politics and not yet
attuned to mature electoral exercises, is not
an offence, much less is it an insult—but with
a big amount of empirical truth or historical
basis. Too sad but real. Too bad but true.
Proliferation of the usual guns, goons and
gold. Murders and kidnappings. Bombings
and burnings. Activism of cruel private
armies and deadly dynastic followers.
Burnings and bombings. Buying of politi-
Fr. Roy Cimagala
cal fidelities and paying for votes. Electoral
sell-offs and buy-ins. Political betrayals and
double-crosses. Gross election cheatings and
extensive election threats.
Add to all these, the full or part or non-au-
tomated election—whichever is convenient
and acceptable to those addicted to power
and covetous of wealth. Happy New Year?
This is not to mention if there will be elec-
tions at all—or there will be but a failure of
election. Happy New Year?
This is not to think of all the possible socio-
political discontent plus probable popular
dissent. Happy New Year?
Philippines my Philippines! How many
lives do you want lost to gain your peace
and development? How many families do
you want destroyed to build your national
stature before the world? How many de-
cades you want to pass for you to become a
real democracy?
Laiko Lampstand
Filipinos have high
hopes for 2010
THE latest yearend Social Weather Station (SWS) survey indi-
cated that 9 out of 10 Filipinos welcome the New Year with hope.
The media’s constant re-play of success stories that Filipinos
achieved in 2009 gave most Pinoys here and abroad something
to be proud of our race—here are a few:
1) Charisse Pempengco the most voted upon by ABS CBN
viewers as the top achiever in the field of singing having been
discovered through the YouTube and progressively being invited
to sing with celebrities and to participate in big events like the
inaugural ceremonies of President Obama. Her recording will
soon come out in 2010 with the guidance of veteran recording
guru David Foster as endorsed by no less than Oprah Winfrey.
2) Manny Pacquiao for winning the boxing championship in 7
weight categories—for 2009 he knocked down Ricky Hatton in
the second round and Miguel Cotto in the 12th round.
3) Efren Peñaflorida having captured the CNN Hero of the Year
among the world’s 10 personalities that helped the disadvan-
taged in their countries—his hallmark is the education of street
children in Cavite using his rolling classroom “kareton”

adrift…
THERE are, of course, many bright spots insofar as leadership is
concerned in the world today, be it in the field of politics, business,
economics and finance, culture, social life, etc. That we are still a
functioning world, despite errors and defects, can only bespeak of
a leadership that’s still floating.
Leadership and the use of authority are a dynamic thing. They
can have their ups and downs, their highs and lows, their boom and
bust. We just have to understand that a lot depends on the kind of
people involved in them, and especially on whether they understand
the true nature, origin and end of power.
And this is none other than that leadership, authority and power can
only have their source in God, their purpose also in God, and the proper
way to handle them in God as well. It cannot be any other way.
The other way, which can only be by making ourselves the be-all
and end-all of power and authority, can spell disaster, trouble, end-
less strifes and rivalries, no matter how successful so far we may
have been able to govern ourselves through different systems.
Leadership, power and authority cannot be other than our par-
ticipation in the leadership, power and authority of God. They come
from God. They can only be exercised in him, and for the purpose
God has for them.
This does not mean that we have to have a kind of theocracy as
our form of government, or fanaticism and fundamentalism as a
way of life.
We know enough that God does not mean that, since human affairs
can involve a wide variety of positions, ways and means that can
even be conflicting with each other and that need to be respected.
It simply means that in any exercise of leadership, power and
authority, while a lot depends on us, the primary role of God should
always be acknowledged, respected and defended. It’s not something
to be afraid of or to be ashamed of.
But this is what we are seeing these days. Religion, faith or any
reference to God and to things spiritual and supernatural are often
accused these days as divisive or as downright irrelevant to human
affairs. At best, they are meant to be strictly a personal private affair
of an individual.
Sr. Mary Pilar Verzosa, RGS
4) Muelmar Magallanes, an 18-year old resident of Barangay
Candidly Speaking Bagong Silang, Quezon City cited no less than the Time Magazine
as one of the 10 heroes of the year for saving 30 people including
a baby during the Ondoy flood but later on died when a collaps-
ing shanty fell on him while still saving more people.
This goes precisely against the very nature of God who is God not
5) Director Brillante Mendoza for capping the Best Direc-
only in our private life, but also in our public affairs. He is a God of
tor at Cannes Festival for his film, “Kinatay”, and other Pinoy
everyone in all levels and aspects.
achievements.
This is the essence of the feast of the Epiphany of our Lord—Jesus
In contrast to these soul-lifting achievements that buoyed the
wanting to manifest himself to the whole world. We just have to
hopes of Filipinos here and abroad there were also most dreadful
learn how to do this crucial aspect of our life properly, looking at
violations against the human person and travesty of Philippine
the example of Jesus always whose theophany was done always in
laws. This crime was committed by long entrenched politicians,
a discreet way.
who are warlords utilizing local policemen and armed civilian
God cannot be a cause of division, since he is the principle of unity
volunteers who mercilessly massacred 57 people on their way to
and the end of everything and of everyone. At least, this is what
register their candidacies for the 2010 election at the COMELEC
Christianity and practically all religions are all about. Christianity
Office in Maguindanao. The incident is recorded as the world’s
does this by showing the extreme of charity—to the point of dying
most brutal killing of civilians including 30 innocent media per-
for love of God and of souls.
sonnel by the way they were killed and buried together with their
It upholds truth and justice, but it does this always in the context
vehicles, using a backhoe of the government public works. This
of understanding, compassion, quickness to forgive and forget, will-
incident alone is one reason why our people have reason to lose
ingness to drown evil with an abundance of good. The only violence
hope in the governance of democracy in the Philippines.
involved is the one inflicted on oneself rather than on others, of the
The results of the disasters Ondoy and Pepeng, while it brought
kind that is more moral than physical.
out the Filipino’s concern for their people, also exposed the
There are also those who think that an emphasis on religion in
inadequacy of the government system to anticipate disasters of
wielding power in our human affairs will make us awkward and
this nature. While we were engaged in Climate Change issues
even incompetent. This, of course, can happen precisely if religion
since 12 years ago with the passage of the Clean Air Act and
is misunderstood and mishandled.
reinforced by the Solid Waste Management Act, the support for
But it need by like that. In fact, it should not be like that. If any-
these two bills financially did not merit attention by the House
thing, what an abiding relation with God does is to give us a greater
of Representatives who gave preference to the approval of their
sensitivity and firmer determination to identify, assess, solve our
own pork barrel—P70 million per congressman and P120 million
problems thoroughly.
per Senator. The result—the Ondoy floods that was choked on
It would truly be funny, if not utterly dangerous, if we just rely
its way to the Pasig River by solid waste disposed by informal
completely on our own resources and devices, independently of
settlers along the riverbanks resulted in the death of many people
God. We would have every reason to worry and fear, because no
especially in subdivisions situated along the flood plains like the
matter how smart and clever we can be, such qualities are nothing
Provident Village.
compared to the challenges we have to face.
Lessons learned during Ondoy, improved the disaster mitiga-
Even without mentioning our spiritual enemies, our natural
tion activities of the government when Pepeng swooped three
and infranatural challenges alone can already be so daunting as to
times in Northern Luzon. The evacuation of personnel in the
guarantee our defeat and failure. We need to hook our exercise of
ongoing eruption of Mayon Volcano with the cooperation of the
leadership, power and authority on God always! We just have to
local government and DSWD, mitigated the harm that the Mayon
learn how to do it with naturalness.
evacuees would have suffered. This coordinated governance by
national and local government inspires us that good governance
by local officials can still be done.
The sea disasters during this Christmas period are particularly
Grace to be born galling since these could have been prevented. Last December

Love Life
24, in the waters of Manila Bay 3 passengers died while 24 were
missing when a wooden-hulled ferry boat, Catalyn B collided
with a steel-hulled fishing vessel, Anatalia. Three days later,
another ferryboat, M/V Baleno, a RORO shipping vessel, sank
BO Sanchez is a preacher, singer, publisher of Among his captured dreamers are Betty so many benefactors bringing items for off in San Agapito Point in Isla Verde, Batangas City. Eighty-eight
the popular “Kerygma Magazine”, radio and and Basti Roxas-Chua – couple-founder of the nursery and the maternity needs of the passengers were on board, 6 confirmed dead. If one listens to
TV host. All of those roles he can accomplish Rosary for Life, a movement to pray all the mothers. media’s questioning of USEC Elena Bautista, one gets the impres-
because he is a dreamer. Mysteries of the Rosary at least once a week When it was first opened in June, Ray sion of classic abandonment of our lawmakers to finish with old
Years aback, he dreamed of taking care of to stop abortion. (Betty informed me that Ortega, the director, complained to me that investigations and implement corrective measures to prevent
elderly and disabled as part of his mission last October, she forwarded 80,000 Rosary a month had gone by and they had only one disasters of this nature from happening again. Remember the
in Shepherd’s Voice. And he did set up the for Life pledges to the Holy Father through baby in their care. As one of their consultants, sunken Superferry in Romblon carrying endosulfan pesticide for
ANAWIM in Montalban, Rizal—a spacious our new Ambassador to the Vatican, Mercy having served in our Good Shepherd homes the banana plantation of Mindanao and the unresolved claim of
mountain-side area with several dormitories, Tuazon. And with such joy that she shared for unwed mothers ever since I entered the relatives from Sulpicio Lines to pay damage for the disappear-
session halls and lovely chapel overlooking with us the reply letter of the Holy Father.) convent, I warned them that they will soon ance of 4000 people during the sinking of Doña Paz also during
the Marikina Valley. Well, Betty and Basti renovated one of their have their hands full with so many girls and Christmas season of 1987! Is it not a slap in the face of this country
Last year, he called me up saying he wanted buildings to accommodate 15 pregnant girls women involved in dysfunctional relation- to be known as contributing the most number of educated sailors
to be more involved in pro-life and help save and women, as well as a fully-furnished ships. Sure enough, the clients started to to man practically 60% of the world’s shipping lines! And we
babies. Maybe his experience of having a nursery for the babies to be born. In four come in, so that now, the place is getting cannot even save our own people from preventable occurrence
growing family of his own has motivated him months time, they had already sheltered 22 too cramped and they might have to start of shipping disasters in our own shores?
to help mothers in whatever circumstance to mothers. And guess who continues to send referring the applicants to other maternity With all what is wrong with our government systems and
give birth to their children. And so “Grace to cash for their food, salaries of the staff, and homes…or build another home! Indeed, procedures, why are there so many aspirants for the presiden-
be Born” Maternity Home and Nursery was medical expenses? the promotion spill of Bo Sanchez during his tial position for the 2010 election? But that is another story. We
set up in Pasig City last June. Of course, all Last November 14, I was invited to the public talks is letting people know that help should continue encouraging the Filipinos here and abroad to
his dreams are realized because others dream baptism of the 11 babies in their care, three is available to those in pregnancy crisis and continue their feeling of hopefulness but more than this, to take
along with him (or should I say, he practically of them born to the mothers there, and the that abortion is not the answer. time to analyze how we can participate in the reform movement
puts those dreams in other people’s hearts rest placed for temporary care or referred A few weeks ago, I spent the afternoon in this coming election.
through his friendly persuasion!). to them for adoption. I was happy to see Love / A6
Hope / A4
mode of engagement, any political initiative can easily degenerate reality for the process to be effective and responsible. gies articulated. It has also witnessed conversion as in the case of a
into politicking and mere activism. Love indeed is “the principal The bible itself mentions qualities to be looked for in leaders, as participant who started out very cynical but ended with a renewed
driving force behind the authentic development of every person in Exodus 18:21 (“But you should also look among all the people commitment: “I will ask the candidates if they have God-fearing
and of all humanity,” as Benedict XVI writes. for able and God-fearing men, trustworthy men who hate dishonest and honest.” Grammatically awkward, yes, but coming from a re-
Pastoral accompaniment supports the emergence of good people gain, and set them as officers over groups…”) and 1 Timothy 3:1-10 energized soul.
running for elected positions, if elections are to cease being the choice regarding qualities of ministers. Perhaps the most succinct is Psalm One feedback captures the spirit of CiDE: “It’s important to note
between lesser evils. After all, “contrary to the commonly voiced 78:72: “And he (David) tended them with an upright heart, and with that CiDE is very consultative, since guidelines and qualifications
opinion that politics and public life are ‘dirty’ and to be shunned, skillful hands he guided them.” really come from the people, and not imposed on them. It is also
PCP II ‘stands on record to urge lay faithful to participate actively Many groups have emerged attempting to bring about new politics empowering because it gives people the opportunity to express their
and lead in renewing politics in accordance with the values of the through voters’ education, political education, and even identifi- sentiments and ideals, and encourages them to move to achieve
good news of Jesus’” (CFC 1193). cation of principled candidates. This is a welcome development. their dreams…it leads people to be responsible by asking them to
More recently, last 12 July 2009, the CBCP Statement on Lay Par- Discernment, however, is needed. Unless the proposed process is choose candidates according to their (people’s) criteria, not based
ticipation in Politics and Peace, called “upon those who are compe- prayerful and simple enough, and really engage ordinary citizens, on media hype.”
tent, persons of integrity, and committed to change to get involved such efforts are bound to become subtle varieties of patronage After two national consultations last year and several CiDE semi-
directly in principled partisan politics, and become candidates for politics. A democracy like ours ought to provide a way for ordinary nars in different local churches, a network is emerging. A consensus
political election…” It also reminds the laity that it is their right and people to express their views. on the top five qualities and qualifications of candidates is emerging.
duty to campaign for such candidates. One possible approach is the circles of discernment for elections These are: God-fearing and morally upright; transparent leadership;
In the past, partisan politics was a bad word in the Church. With (CiDE) that are being adopted by a number of local churches in servant leadership; competence; and pro-life. These qualities, how-
this statement, the bishops have opened the gates that can release and partnership with the Dilaab movement. It begins with prayer since ever, have sub-qualities tucked beneath them. “God-fearing,” for
channel the immense pent-up energies of our people, particularly its larger framework is really the Year of Prayer and Work for Peace- instance, includes prayerful, well-formed conscience, holy, morally
the Catholic faithful, for meaningful political change from a faith building and Lay Participation in Social Change from June 2009 to June upright, discerning, Christ-centered, beholden to the Lord, etc.
perspective. This calls for a politics of hope and patience. 2010 as declared by the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines Even as the CiDE seminars continue to spread, the growing con-
The ball is now in the court of the laity. (CBCP). The prayer to the Twin Hearts of Jesus and Mary is vital. vergence holds the potential of helping shape the political agenda
The CiDE approach is the fruit of nine circles of discernment con- from a faith perspective. Interestingly, the aforementioned qualities
Circles of Discernment for Elections ducted by Dilaab in 2008, including a gathering of Visayan bishops of leaders coincide with those of Exodus 18:21.
In the present political culture, candidates usually emerge when convened by Ricardo J. Cardinal Vidal of Cebu. The resulting one- The next step is how to determine who really have these quali-
someone presents himself or herself to the public as running for office. day seminar (called the Mabolo seminar, after the first parish that ties. Further questions need to be asked and another mechanism
All other considerations revolve and adjust to this personality. adopted it) tries to answer three questions: Ganito na lang ba tayo? for obtaining, validating, and disseminating information needs to
This is not what happens in the corporate world. Companies begin Maari pa ba tayong managinip at ano ang ating mga panaginip? be set up. Pastoral accompaniment and evangelical formation is a
with a set of qualifications. Only then do individuals apply. There is Anong uri ng mga lider ang kakailanganin natin upang makamit never-ending process.
need then to develop a bottom-up process starting with principles natin ang ating mga panaginip? (For more information or details regarding the results of the CiDE
before personalities are taken into consideration. But such process In CiDE seminars in different local churches and even one in Hong seminar, or CiDE seminar-requests, call/text 09173248388 or email
must begin where people are at; principles must be grounded in Kong, the Dilaab team has seen both positive and negative ener- us at info@dilaab.net).
 Local News
CBCP Monitor
A6 Vol. 14 No. 1
January 4 - 17, 2010

St. Vincent de Paul Society urged

to be ‘creative’ in serving the poor
THE Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SSVP), one of the oldest and 150 years and even more. Let our 150 years of history be an impetus
largest Catholic lay organizations in the country today, was urged
to be inventive in carrying out its mission of serving the poor and
marginalized sectors.
for something more in terms of our service to the poor,” he said.
“The poor is not only growing more but the faces of poverty are
also changing. This situation fits very well into our Vincentian spirit.
Bishop blames corruption
for ARMM poverty
Fr. Gerardo Vibar, CM, national spiritual director of SSVP, made Let our discernment begin with a work so simple and very close to
the call during his homily on the occasion of the 150th arrival an- the heart of the Society,” he added.
niversary of SSVP in the Philippines held at the Sta. Isabel College, With the theme “SSVP… in partnership with the poor,” the Society
Manila last Dec. 22. has lined up activities for its members and beneficiaries as part of COTABATO Auxiliary
“This 150th foundation anniversary gives us an opportunity not its year-long celebration which coincides with the sesquicentennial Bishop Jose Collin Baga-
only to bask in the glory of the past but to forge ahead into the future. arrival anniversary of the Jesuits in the Philippines. foro blamed corrupt poli-
Let us be inventive. Let us be revolutionary,” he said. It has organized a logo design-making contest with the theme ticians for the extensive
SSVP was founded in Paris on April 23, 1833 by a group of young “Charity – Mission” in solidarity with the international celebration poverty in Southern Phil-
students and an elder person who worked together to create the of the 350th death anniversary of Sts. Vincent de Paul and Louise ippines.
First Conference in response to the cry of the poor. Blessed Frederic de Marillac. Bishop Bagaforo said
Ozanam is considered the founder of the Society. The organization has also co-sponsored a short video essay contest the Autonomous Region
There are more than 700,000 SSVP members from 137 countries at open to all members of the Vincentian Family Coordinating Coun- in Muslim Mindanao
present. In the Philippines, there are around 6,000 active members cil, including the students and alumni of CM and DC schools and (ARMM) is poor definitely
in parishes and schools, most of which are run by the Congregation parishes all over the country. not for lack of resources
of the Mission and Daughters of Charity. SSVP is mostly involved in home visitation, health ministry, but because of irregulari-
According to Fr. Vibar, like other civic and religious groups com- immediate relief to calamity/disaster stricken areas, educational ties in local governance.
mitted to serving the poor, the SSVP must continue with courage assistance, livelihood projects, liturgical and para-liturgical prepara- He said everything has
to “reinvent” itself as it renders specific contributions in fighting tions; catechism; issues/advocacies concerning the poor, formation its roots in graft and cor-
poverty in the country through its “network of charity”. of members and beneficiaries; family welfare apostolate; socio-eco- rupt practices and the
“As much as it is about the past 150 years, it is also about the next pastoral renewal and studies, among others. (Ferdie J. Maglalang) never-ending hunger for
Auxiliary Bishop Jose Collin Bagaforo political power.
End hostility / A1 Clergy / A1
“Government leaders
“An objective shared by all, an indispens- On the fourth day of the retreat, Imus role in helping their priests live faithfully should look into its own economic policies and see what needs
able condition for peace, is that of overseeing Bishop Luis Antonio Tagle will give two con- their pastoral commitment. to be done,” Bagaforo said.
the earth’s natural resources with justice and ferences touching on the spiritual pastoral “Hopefully, our lay people will be open He said if government officials cannot rid the country of graft
wisdom.” context of the Church enough to believe that and corrupt practices and the evils of narcopolitics, more people
The 82-year-old Pope said that environ- in the Philippines. change can happen are bound to suffer.
mental responsibility was indispensable for even to their pastors,” The government, he added, should upgrade its infrastructure
world peace. Three C’s said Gustilo. program in the regions because the lack of standard roads and
“I would like to underline the importance Filled with spiritu- He said it saddens bridges directly affect local residents.
of the choices of individuals, families and al activities, the five- him sometimes that The church leader also cited the problems brought about by
local administrations in preserving the en- day congress include some people seemed to unstable peace and order situation because it hinders the inflow
vironment,” he said. other highlights such have taken priests for of investors to the area.
“An objective shared by all, an indispens- as liturgical celebra- granted. He noted while the region is rich in natural resources, there
able condition for peace, is that of overseeing tion of the Eucharist, “They are somewhat are less businessmen who invest in the area for security reasons.
the earth’s natural resources with justice and Communal Penance skeptical whether this (CBCPNews)
wisdom,” he added. and Reconciliation, kind of retreat will effect
the Via Crucis, Lauds change in the priests.
Tolerance
World peace has long been one of the
central messages of the Church and the
and Vespers and the
recitation of the ro-
sary.
But of course, if people
are blinded by what
they already believed,
Evangelical group demands
Pope focused on this again this year, urging
the faithful to show more tolerance for each
other as societies become diverse.
Fr. Francis Gustilo,
SDB, another pro-
gram committee
they would not see any
possibility for change to
happen,” Gustilo said.
tougher Copenhagen climate deal
He told the thousands of faithful who had member said Canta- He said during the AS world leaders gathered in Copenhagen for landmark talks on
gathered in St. Peter’s Square that peace be- lamessa’s reflection event people should climate change, an evangelical group appealed for their country
gins by recognizing that men are brothers, on the theme will basically touch on the three pray not only for the priests but also for the to be saved from global warming and rising sea levels.
not rivals or enemies. C’s: “consecration, conversion and commit- country, saying the current situation in the The Philippine Council of Evangelical Churches (PCEC)
Benedict XVI also said it was getting com- ment,” which is the aim of the retreat. country needs vigilant lay people who are appealed on world leaders attending the ongoing UN climate
mon for schools to have children of different “Consecration, [because] the priest is con- aware of their rights and responsibility. summit for a far-reaching international accord on reducing
backgrounds, and that it was important secrated, ordained for a mission; conversion, “CBCP dedicated this year as the year greenhouse gas emissions.
children learn at an early age to accept those because priests also commit mistakes from of the two hearts of Jesus and Mary. Since In a statement, PCEC national director Bishop Efraim Tendero
differences from themselves. what they promised during their ordination; the election is nearing, so we should also said they are relying on the decision makers to sign a deal that
“Their faces represent the prophecy of [and] commitment, [or resolution] to renew have a renewed vision of our society. Our will mean that the future generation will inherent a safe world.
humanity that we are invited to develop: a their lives,” he said. people should elect the right persons to join “We call on leaders to work for a strong climate deal that will
family of families and peoples.” the government. If we follow always the keep global temperature increase as far below two degrees as
Laity as participants traditional politics, nothing will happen in possible—the threshold over which climate change impacts will
Spare the children The laity are also encouraged by organizers our country, But if we are convinced of the become overwhelming, and reduce emissions by at least 80% (on
The Pope, who had a scare lately when a to participate in the upcoming congress by people we should vote for, then we will not 1990 levels) by 2050,” the statement read.
woman with a history of mental problems way of praying and offering sacrifices for their sell our vote,” he said. “We especially call on developed countries to agree to cut
knocked him down during Christmas Eve priests and the success of the spiritual retreat. The clergy event will culminate in the their emissions by at least 40% (on 1990 levels) by 2020 and
Mass, also gave emphasis on the children Some lay people have been invited to afternoon of January 29, with a huge proces- to urgently commit to providing at least $150 billion a year of
especially those hurt by conflict as he ap- witness among the priests their pursuit of sion of bishops and priests from World Trade additional funding to help developing countries adapt, reduce
pealed for peace. holiness according to their state in life. Shar- Center to Cuneta Astrodome to celebrate the their emissions, protect their forests and develop sustainability,”
The stories of children affected by war and ers include former Chief Justice Artemio closing Eucharist with the laity. it added.
violence “disfigured by pain and despera- Panganiban, Darren Bancod (youth), Mr. and Around 4,200 clergy nationwide have Although climate change is affecting all, Tendero said, it is hav-
tion,” are reason enough for people to seek Mrs. Leopoldo Repratente (couple) and Ms. already registered for the five-day spiritual ing the hardest impact upon the most vulnerable communities
for peace. Maria Voce of the Focolare Movement. event. around the world, which have done the least to cause it.
When it’s the innocent children and civil- The public will have their chance to hear The clergy congress is being organized He added it is already responsible for 300,000 deaths a year
ians that suffer the most, “all the false jus- Cantalamessa preach on January 28 at the by Episcopal Commission on Clergy of the and adversely affects 300 million people, mainly in the develop-
tifications for war and violence fall down,” Araneta Coliseum, an event open for the la- Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philip- ing world.
he said. ity. He will speak to lay people about their pines. (CBCPNews) “We see the impacts of this in extreme weather events such
as floods, droughts, storms and unpredictable rainfall within
Companion / A4 the communities we work with and the effects this is having
seminars focusing on Responsi- and Evangelization, headed alternative to contraceptives and our sixty-year old St. Augustine on food security, access to water, livelihoods and biodiversity,”
ble Christian Citizenship. These by Fr. Salvador, are undergo- the Reproductive Health bills. Cathedral is currently undergo- he said.
are being replicated at the parish ing reorganizational changes For this special Year of the ing renovation of its trusses and “We call on world leaders from all countries to take decisive
level. Several resource persons while continuing their ongoing Priests, the archdiocese has been roofing at its rear section. action to secure an ambitious and fair climate deal in Copenha-
have assisted these activities activities—i.e., Catechetics, Basic blessed with four ordinations to In the light of the recent acts of gen,” he said. (CBCPNews)
– notably, Fr. C. Diola and his Ecclesial Communities, Chris- the priesthood last November. In violence in Maguindanao, Basi-
Dilaab team from Cebu, and Ms. tian Family and Life, and Youth. January 2010, most of our priests lan, and Agusan del Sur, the peace Crucial / A1
H. de Villa, PPCRV Chair from Notably, our All-Natural Family will be joining the National Clergy process for the whole of Mind- “When someone desires what is good for everyone including self,
Manila. Meanwhile, several Civil Planning program has reached Congress in Manila. By next year anao needs to be strengthened. peace can become an accepted reality,” the Cardinal said, adding:
Society groups are exploring out to nearly two-thirds of our too, St. John Vianney Theological May all these renewal efforts of “Peace is not within the grasp of a person whose only interest is
transpartisan ways of involve- parishes. It is heartening to see Seminary here in Cagayan de Oro the local church—in our clergy, self.”
ment in the coming elections. how our NFP counselors and will be celebrating its 25th anniver- ministries, and the cathedral—be “To make His disciples men of peace, the Lord Jesus trained them
couple-users, and increasingly sary. The interdiocesan seminary a fitting preparation for its mes- to love beyond selfish interest, even to the point of offering the sac-
Our ad intra ministries un- local government units too, are has trained about 350 priests for sage of peace for Mindanao in this rifice of one’s life,” he continued.
der the Commission on Faith adopting All-NFP as the positive Mindanao and Bohol. Meanwhile, New Year 2010. The world’s path to peace has remained elusive even after two
thousand years since Jesus came to earth as the Prince of peace.
Love / A5 This is so because “people had put their selfish ambitions and
with the mothers. Jon, their social worker crossed their mind many times during their the Board and Staff members open their arms greed first before the possession of the common good of all”, the
and other staff had prepared them for my first weeks of pregnancy, when they were to bring to each one the overflowing love of Cardinal said.
coming. I showed them the video on fetal confused and did not know where to turn to. the Creator and Giver of Life. How I wish that “If we survey our surroundings and see the poverty around us—
development and they had a lot of ques- The 13-year old incest victim had the most there will be many more such Homes set up the selfish ambitions and the pride, including the degenerate ways
tions, being on their first pregnancy. They questions. My heart ached for her and the all over the country, especially in urban areas of governance bereft of inspiration and good example from leaders,
were awed at the mystery of the life that stunted childhood she is experiencing due where abortion rates are high so we could the inhumanity in today’s crimes and the shamelessness in many a
was growing inside them, comparing the to the violence of the man who should have offer alternatives to those women in crisis crime among irresponsible leaders—the question remains the same
age of their unborn baby to the photos they been protecting her. pregnancy situations. If you feel called to set as before, “Is peace a possibility?” he said.
were seeing. They wept with joy at their Grace to be Born Maternity Home embraces up a Home, just as Bo Sanchez and his group But peace becomes an option, he said, when people have “a suf-
decision not to abort, although a couple of the mothers and babies that God sends them. have done, do contact the Pro-life office (733- ficiency to own and consume what a noble life needs and what
them admitted regretfully that the thought No matter what age, social status or religion, 7027) or Sr. Pilar (0920-945-5494). human dignity requires”. (CBCPNews)

Creation / A1
encouraged the youth to cherish
and share the values they have
learned from the movement to
other members of their respec-
tive communities.
Likewise, link moderators and
mentors from different schools
and communities gave their
words of encouragement and
their unending support to the
youth program.
The participating schools,
communities and youth groups
include AGAPE Human Devel-
opment Foundation, Ateneo de
Zamboanga University-High
School Dept., Ayala National
High School, Badjao Commu-
nity, Baluno National High
School, Cawit Community,
Campo Islam Community, HMIJ
Philippine Islamic Coolege, Inc.,
Kalinaw Youth, La Paz Com-
munity, Pilar College-High
School Dept., Regional Science
High School, SilPeace-Jolo,
SilPeace-Zamboanga, Sinunuc
Community, Sinunuc National
High School, Southcom Na-
tional High School, Sta. Catalina
Community, Sta. Cruz Island
Community, Universidad de
Zamboanga, Western Mindanao
State University-Integrated
Laboratory High School, Zam-
boanga City High School-Main,
Zamboanga State College of
Marine Science and Technolo-
gy-College and High School and
Zone IV Youth.
The Silsilah Youth Program
aims to promote the Culture of
Dialogue, Path to Peace among
the youth—Muslims, Chris-
tians and other living faiths—to
sustain peaceful and harmoni-
ous relationships among them
even as they belong to diverse
religious beliefs and cultural
backgrounds. (Pinky Barrien-
tos, FSP)
Amendments / A3
be removed and the lack of due
process must be included as a
basis for the unlawful dismissal
against the OFW.
“In addition, a final provi-
sion that allows freedom of
information and access to in-
formation by any citizen, OFW
or institution must be intro-
duced in the new legislation,”
he said. “Furthermore, in the
pre-employment orientation
seminars, it must include a
module discussing workers
rights under domestic and in-
ternational laws, including the
ILO Maritime Labor Conven-
tion of 2006 for all sea-based
OFWs.”
No to compulsory insurance
ISAC also said no to the com-
pulsory insurance proposed on
the new Migrants’ Act.
De la Cruz said the amount of
coverage is not reflective of the
needs of OFW’s and their contri-
bution to the national economy.
All amounts should be doubled.
It is not true that seafarers are
amply covered by adequate
insurance by Protection and
Indemnity Clubs (P and I Club)
formed by the ship-owners.
“The seafarer is not the one
insured here but the Shipowner
under a “pay-to-be-paid” ar-
rangement. The seafarer cannot
sue the P and I Club directly nor
claim anything against the P and
I Club as it is the ship-owner
who is insured or protected,” he
explained.
Meanwhile, this January 2010,
ISAC will launch a series of
forums and other activities to
strengthen and widen its cam-
paign against the anti-migrant
amendments on Migrants Work-
ers’ Act of 1995. (Noel Sales
Barcelona)
 Diocesan News
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 1
January 4 - 17, 2010
A7

Briefing Priests’ deaths top

significant events for
Diocese joins decongestion program for evacuees
LEGAZPI CITY─The Diocese of Legazpi has helped the local
government in decongesting evacuation centers during the
resumption of the classes on Jan. 4. Social Action Director Fr.
Ramoncito Segubiense said they have agreed on what specific
programs would be implemented without any fear of duplica-
tion. “Those who are concerned with food will form part of the

Catarman diocese
Food Cluster while those in psycho-social programs would have
their own cluster,” Segubiense said. (Melo M. Acuña)

Oblates inaugurate media center

COTABATO CITY—The Oblate Media Center was inaugurated
on Jan. 4 at the partially renovated building of DXMS and DXOL
at the corner of Sinsuat and Quezon Avenues, this city. The
Center brings together under one roof the offices of the enti-
ties involved in the Mass Media Apostolate of the Oblates of
Mary Immaculate, DXMS-AM and DXOL-FM of Notre Dame
Broadcasting Corporation, the Mindanao Cross and i-Watch.
(Fr. Jonathan Domingo, OMI)
Archbishop: Jesus’s birth brings hope amid uncertainties
NAGA CITY—The tumultuous events that swept the country
this year have left many people wondering what the incoming
year 2010 would bring in their lives. In his Christmas Message
to the Catholic faithful in the Bicol region, Caceres Archbishop
Leonardo Z. Legazpi, OP noted how turbulent the year has been
and said “we cannot help but brace ourselves for an unknown
year to come.” (Melo M. Acuña)
Meditate and share the word of God, bishop exhorts
BECs
SORSOGON CITY—Underscoring the importance of the Scrip-
tures as the foundation of basic ecclesial communities (BEC),
Sorsogon Bishop Arturo Bastes urged BEC members to meditate
on the word of God and share their insights in the context of
prayer. The prelate said with the Word of God, BEC members
will be united “in the love for God and for one another, guided
by the teachings of Jesus as handed down by the Church.”
(CBCPNews)
Prelate calls on flock to be instruments of God’s love
GUMACA, Quezon—Sending his traditional Christmas greet-
ings to Gumaca faithful, Bishop Buenaventura Famadico urged
his flock to allow themselves to become instruments of God’s
love especially in this season of Christmas. He said Christ’s gift
has been the greatest expression of God’s love for humanity,
even as he urged his faithful to “receive Jesus in our hearts,”
and to “allow Jesus in our hearts to love others through us.”
(CBCPNews)
CATARMAN, N. Samar—The church’s celebration of the Year for Priests
will leave a significant mark in the diocesan calendar of the diocese of
Catarman, for within this year the diocese lost two of its clergy.
Catarman Bishop Emmanuel Trance said among the various
important events that happened in the diocese in 2009, the death of
his two priests was for him the most significant.
One of the priests, Fr. Noel Surio, then 33 years old, died in January
2009 due to illness. But it was the ambush-
slay of Fr. Cecilio Lucero on Sept. 6 that
caught international attention and gained
nationwide condemnation from the Church
and human rights advocates.
Lucero was then involved in the promo-
tion of peace and justice in the diocese as
head of Catarman’s Peace and Human Rights
advocacy desk.
The priest was killed when the Universal
Church celebrates a year dedicated to the
clergy and Year of Peace-building and Lay
Participation in Social Change declared
by the Catholic Bishops Conference of the
Philippines.
“To counterbalance these sad events, we
had two ordinations, one to the priesthood
last August and another to the deaconate last
Dec. 11,” Trance said in a statement. Fr. Cecilio Lucero
He said another important event for the diocese was the celebration
of Bishop Angel Hobayan’s 80th birthday last Dec. 11.
“We also had a successful fund-raising concert to build a diocesan
clergy complex to house our retired priests and on-going formation
of our priests,” he added.
Trance also mentioned the re-launching of their feeding program
for at least 2,000 children after receiving fortified rice from donors.
Other significant accomplishments
Other significant accomplishments of the diocese was the acti-
vation of the Samar Island Multi-Sectoral Peace Building, Good
Governance and Environment advocacy through the Samar Island
Partnership for Peace and Development Forum, where the Bishops
of Calbayog, Borongan and Catarman are the three lead conveners.
Four regular assemblies have been made on this.
Basic Ecclesial Communities have been revived in Catarman’s
parishes with the help of their four new deacons.
But Trance said he fears the existing political culture “has still
much to be desired” due to political patron-
age; vote-buying and vote-selling will con-
tinue with different variations.
“Because of their poverty many of the
people are just vulnerable to the vote buy-
ing anomaly as some have learned to expect
it,” he said.
He expressed fears some “election terror-
ism” can still come from contending parties
and the outlawed New People’s Army.
“For an honest and peaceful election, we
will need the involvement of the larger com-
munity to help achieve it,” the bishop said,
adding that the diocese will have to lead in
such advocacy.
“We have to be assured of a neutral Phil-
ippine Army and a PNP that is vigilant for
peace and order,” he further explained.
35th founding anniversary
Preparations have begun for the 35th (Jade) Founding Anniver-
sary of the Diocese of Catarman on March 11 with their mother
Diocese of Calbayog preparing for its 1st Centenary as a Diocese
in April and their sister Diocese of Borongan, their Golden Jubilee
in October.
“Relatively young as a local church, we have so many things to
learn and challenges to face, we need to empower our laity, men
and women religious as well as the clergy for peace-building and
development according to the spirit of Caritas in Veritate,” he said.
(CBCPNews)

Albay govt spends P1.2 million

Bishop urges faithful to remain resilient in time of crisis
CATARMAN, N. Samar—Catarman Bishop Emmanuel Trance
called on his flock to remain resilient and to work for peace in
the face of widespread corruption, violence and economic crisis

daily for evacuees

hounding the country. Trance said the pressing problems in the
country today “call for resiliency, peace-building, accountability
and transparency” among the people and those in public service.
(CBCPNews)

Nuncio commends Archdiocese of Davao
DAVAO CITY—Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines Archbishop
Edward Joseph Adams commended the Archdiocese of Davao
for its significant growth especially in the faith experiences of
the people. Adams, who came here Dec. 15 for the awarding of
the “Pro-Ecclesia Et Pontifice Award and Papal Chaplains”, said
that the award is a manifestation of that deeper commitment of
the people of Davao to the Church. (Mark S. Ventura)
Biblical Center hosts Catholic Faith Defender’s retreat
OZAMIZ CITY—The Paul VI Biblical Center for Mindanao has
LEGAZPI CITY—The Albay provincial gov-
ernment spent at least P1.2 million daily for
the upkeep of over 10,000 families who lived
in evacuation centers for some 20 days, since
Mayon Volcano began belching ash and lava
more than three weeks ago.
This, according to Albay Governor Jose
Sarte Salceda, as he acknowledged the do-
nations received by the Provincial Disaster
Management Office from various local and
international donors.
government has so far sent home 45,000 of
the 47,000 evacuees
Salceda said only 2,322 from 510 families
are in temporary shelters.
The remaining evacuees are those living in
the six-kilometer-radius permanent danger
zone and in the seven-kilometer extended
danger zone in Mayon's southeast flank. This
includes barangays in Legazpi City and in
Daraga and Camalig towns.
Salceda earlier said the government found
© Melo Acuña / CBCP Media

hosted the recently held First National Catholic Faith Defenders’
Retreat in Banadero, here. Headed by Fr. Iluminado Rojo, MTS,
Regional Director of the Paul VI Biblical Center for Mindanao,
the Bible Apostolate Core Team of Immaculate Conception Ca-
thedral Parish collaborated in organizing the event. Organizers
said that the retreat is a way of internalizing the Word of God
for those involved in apologetics. (Kate Laceda)
Amnesty Int’l salutes HR workers in Mindanao
DAVAO CITY—Calling it as an act of bravery, the Amnesty
International hailed all the brave journalists, community volun-
But he said the provincial government
cannot fully account for donations made
by individuals, families and corporations
to various Manila-based institutions raising
funds and goods for Albay’s 47,563 evacuees
housed in 29 evacuation centers.
“We have declared an open city and we
encourage institutions to help,” he said.
Meanwhile, a day after state volcanolo-
gists reduced Mayon Volcano’s danger
alert level on Jan. 2, the Albay provincial
it more difficult to “decamp" evacuees who
have relied on the government for daily food
rations and health assistance than those who
did not depend on any aid.
The governor also said Mayon unrest has
a ‘calming effect’ as no significant increase
in criminal incidents has been noted.
Albay Provincial Director Police Sr. Supt. An evacuee from Barangay Bonga which is within the
8-kilometer radius of Mt. Mayon, cooks rice noodles to
William Macavinta disclosed that they have sell to her fellow evacuees, to augment their income
not observed an upsurge in criminal activities after being displaced from their farms due to the
during the past two weeks. (CBCPNews) rumblings of Mt. Mayon.

Archbishop: Let 2010 be a year of integrity

teers, lawyers and advocates from non-governmental organiza-
tions who have helped protect and promote the human rights
of all conflict-affected peoples of Mindanao despite threats to
their lives and security. It also said that long before the Nov. 23
massacre, human rights abuses have been going on in Mindanao
but they have mostly been unreported and unresolved. (Mark DAGUPAN CITY—Lingayen- ended,” he said. “Integrity is power of exemplary lives.” for fellowmen, but Jesus taught
S.Ventura) Dagupan Archbishop Socrates back,” he added. Villegas noted that the first through his life that loving God
Villegas has challenged his Looking forward to the incom- month of the year is called January and serving others go together.
flock to live a life of integrity, ing year 2010, the young prelate “named after a Greek god with “In our world where word
Peace is attained through dialogue, says Mindanao priest
as “Christians who teach by the wished that integrity will reign two faces—symbol of disunity.” differs from deed, Jesus showed
DAVAO CITY—Peace Advocate Fr. Amado Picardal said that power of exemplary lives.” in everybody’s lives. “Janus, the god with two faces, that every grace received is
peace will only be attained in Mindanao if the spirit of sharing With the coming of Jesus, God “In 2010, let integrity of life flow is not ours to imitate,” he said. coupled with responsibility,”
and dialogue is alive among the stakeholders. Picardal said that restored wholeness to human- like a river. Let wholeness shine Instead, everyone should em- said Villegas.
peace is more than the silencing of the guns and it is more than a kind and bridged the distance like the noonday sun. May 2010 see ulate the example of Jesus, who He admonished Lingayen-
piece of paper signed by the government and the Moro Islamic that separates between the divine our land healed and made whole personifies wholeness, the God Dagupan’s faithful to make the
Liberation Front. (Mark S. Ventura) and the human, the archbishop again. May Jesus make us all men “who united word and action.” incoming New Year “a year of
said in a New Year message. and women of integrity and char- He noted how the world has wholeness, of integrity” in their

Ozamiz archdiocese
“The wounds of division are acter, Christians who teach by the separated love of God from love lives. (CBCPNews)
Dialogue / A3
and Natural Resources (DENR), Department set reform, job creation and climate-resistant flooding, sea rise, landslides and drought, all of

elects new vicar general of Agriculture (DAR), Metropolitan Manila

Development Authority (MMDA), Commis-
sion on Human Rights (CHR) and Presidential
farming.

Mitigating adverse effects

which are likely to hit the poor the most.
He bewailed the strategic weakness of the
country in forecasting the impact of climate
OZAMIZ CITY—The Archdiocese of Ozamiz has elected a new Commission for Urban Poor (PCUP) shared The dialogue highlighted too the urgent change.
vicar-general to take on the post vacated by Msgr. Emie Bienes, who the varied policy initiatives in mitigating the need for mitigation, adaptation and anticipa- It is so because the country’s technology is a
succumbed to liver cancer last Dec. 4, 2009. adverse impact of climate change. tion measures related to climate change. decade behind its Southeast Asian neighbors,
Msgr. Maximino Naron, Jr. was elected through secret balloting Senator Nene Pimentel and Congressman Dr. Esteban Godilano, a satellite expert from especially Thailand and Vietnam, and very
during the clergy meeting on December 9 at St. Vincent Parish, Leonardo Montemayor backed up the need UP Los Baños showed maps indicating that most much antiquated compared to those used by
Bonifacio, Misamis Occidental. for greater social spending in support of as- of the Philippines are vulnerable to increased developed countries, he said. (Bel Formanes)
Naron, 50, succeeded the late Bienes, 63, as the fourth vicar gen-
eral of the archdiocese. Bienes had been vicar general of Ozamiz Cable TV / A1
Archdiocese since 1992 until his death. The agreement was signed by agreement reads. their information dissemination added, provides an illustrated
The new vicar general, who earned his Licentiate in Philosophy, PPCRV national chairperson Hen- PCTA is the umbrella orga- campaign. step-by-step instruction on the
Bachelor in Sacred Theology and Doctorate in Canon Law at the rietta de Villa and PCTA president nization of cable TV operators She said the PTCA has allowed new voting system.
University of Santo Tomas in Manila, will retain his previous posts Leo Wong in a simple ceremony in the country consisting of the the airing PPCRV’s instructional “We really welcome this coop-
as Chancellor and Canon lawyer of the archdiocese. held at the Pope Pius XII Catholic biggest cable operators, as well video material on poll automa- eration between the PPCRV and
The archdiocese also announced new assignments of five priests Center in Manila recently. as, the medium and small cable tion for free. the cable TV operators to achieve
in the local church as a result of series meetings and consultations “...The Parties have agreed to operators. To ensure that voters would a comprehensive, reliable and
made by the members of Board of Consultors and as approved by work together to achieve a com- De Villa said the organiza- understand how to use the pre- relevant public education and
Ozamiz Archbishop Jesus Dosado, CM. prehensive, credible, reliable and tion, serving 85% of the coun- cinct county optical scan (PCOS) coverage of 2010 elections,” she
The changes, involving at least 5 parishes took effect on Dec. 31, relevant public education and try’s total cable TV subscribers, machines, the video, De Villa said. (CBCPNews)
according to Ozamiz Clergy President Fr. Edgar Canama. coverage of 2010 elections,” the would surely be a big help in
The newly-appointed vicar general was named pastor of St. St. James / A2
Michael the Archangel Parish, Tangub City; Fr. Edgar S. Canama Peace / A2 the Way as an interior experience, responding to the call that the
moved to Holy Child Parish of Clarin town; Fr. Eugene Rudinas taught to understand that “they are now the builders of the future Lord makes to each one of them."
named as pastor in Holy Cross Parish of Gango district; Fr. Regidor for all who will live here.” According to the website of the British Confraternity of St. James,
Abalde transferred to Holy Rosary Parish, Oroquieta City and Fr. “The good which they desire today must guide them in their plenary or full indulgences will be granted during the Holy Year,
Celestino Palma named assistant parish priest of Msgr. Naron in preparations for those who will come after,” he added. “Education those who visit the Cathedral and the Apostle’s tomb, and addition-
Tangub City. about the religious meaning of life and about natural resources is ally make a confession, attend Mass, pray for the intentions of the
Canama retained his other assignment as station manager of part of the comprehensive education we should all enjoy and sup- Holy Father and undertake some charitable work, which can include
Catholic run radio station, dxDD-AM and FM. (Wendell Talibong) port,” the archbishop concluded. . (CNA) a charitable donation, are granted a plenary indulgence. (CNA)
 A8 People, Facts & Places CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 1
January 4 - 17, 2010

2nd National Congress of the

Clergy website launched
Markings
AS the preparations of the 2nd National Congress of the Clergy gets
under way, the Catholic Church has launched a website dedicated
to providing clerics and the faithful information about the event.
© CBCP Media
The website, www.clergycongress2.org was designed to assist
priests by providing them with updates, news and multimedia
resources about the gathering.
Msgr. Pedro Quitorio, Media Coordinator of the
Congress’ Central Committee, explained that the site is
intended to help priests and lay people alike who wish
to be involved in the Congress.
The website, designed by the CBCPWorld, a church-
based Internet service provider, is equipped with multi- INSTALLED. Bishop Joel Baylon as bishop of
media components and social networking platforms. Legazpi, December 10, 2009. Born in Milaor,
The launching of the website was held during the Cen- Camarines Sur on January 29, 1954, the 55-
year old prelate was the Bishop of Masbate
tral Committee’s meeting at the Pope Piux XII Catholic until his appointment as bishop of Legazpi on
Center in Manila on December 11, 2009. October 1, 2009. He is currently the chairman
In her message, Henrietta de Villa, Central Committee of the Episcopal Commission on Youth, CBCP’s
Chair, said the official website would be useful in spread- executive arm that oversees the activities of the
youth apostolate. Bishop Baylon was ordained
ing the “good news” about priests. to the priesthood on October 18, 1978. He took
“We really hold you (priests) with such regard because his theology studies at Divine Word Seminary

we don’t have the Eucharist without you,” De Villa said.
“We are working for the Congress of the Clergy because
we know that our clergy is precious and to express to you
Ambassador Henrietta de Villa, chair of the Central Coordinating Committee of the Second our gratitude for all that you are to us and for leading
National Congress of the Clergy, does the symbolic click of the mouse formally launching the us to Christ and empowering us also to bring Christ to
website during the Committee meeting at Pius XII Center last December 10, 2009. others,” she added. (CBCPNews)
in Tagaytay City and further studies in Forma-
tive Spirituality at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, USA. His pastoral
assignments include being professor and spiritual director of St. Gregory
the Great Seminary, spiritual director of Holy Rosary Major Seminary, as-
sistant secretary-general of the Catholic Bishops Conference, secretary
to the Nuncio and pastor of St. Vincent Ferrer Parish in Bigaa, Legazpi
City. While parish priest of St. Vincent from 1995 until his appointment as
bishop of Masbate, he was also the Director of the Diocesan Family Life

Taize ‘Pilgrimage of Trust’ set in 2010

YOUNG people from all over the world are
set to gather in Manila early part of February
2010 for a pilgrimage of trust organized by
the Taize brothers.
The upcoming “Pilgrimage of Trust on
Earth” will be the second time in Manila,
which hosted the first meeting in 1991, and
the fifth in Asia. The religious event is slated
on February 3-7, 2010 at the Don Bosco Tech-
nical Institute in Makati City.
With barely a month away, preparations for
the spiritual assembly are in high gear with
volunteers visiting parishes to meet youth
leaders and facilitate prayer meetings.
A group of international youth volunteers
have arrived last November from Hong
Kong, Japan, Vietnam, Germany, Korea and
Indonesia to beef up the Taize secretariat
led by the Taize brothers and Little Sisters
of Jesus.
With the general theme of “Inner Life and
Solidarity” centered on trust, peace and rec-
onciliation, the international youth meeting
aims to lead young people “in their search for
God and in their desire to commit themselves
in the Church and society.”
The meeting will include common prayers
and sharing on the word of God. The morn-
ing prayers will be done in the parishes and
religious communities where participants
will be lodged. The afternoon activities
consisting of midday prayer, workshops,
sharing and evening prayers will be held at
the central venue at Don Bosco, Makati.
The event is being organized in coordi-
nation with the Episcopal Commission on
Youth (ECY) of the Catholic Bishops’ Confer-
ence of the Philippines (CBCP).
ECY executive secretary, Fr. Conegundo
Garganta said participation in the religious
experience does not only happen during the
five-day event in Manila but starts during
the preparations and goes on even after the
pilgrimage.
Thousands of young people aged 16 to 35
years old are expected to participate in the
upcoming Manila “pilgrimage of trust”.
The fifth international youth meeting in
Asia, the previous meetings were held in
Chennai (Madras), India in 1985 and 1988;
Manila, Philippines in 1991, and Kolkata,
India in 2006. (CBCPNews)
Commission, Bethlehem Inter-diocesan Pastoral Center and Chairman
of Diocesan BEC Commission. He was ordained 2nd Bishop of Masbate
on March 25, 1998 at St. Gregory the Great Cathedral, Legazpi City and
installed Bishop of Masbate on April 2, 1998 at St. Anthony of Padua Ca-
thedral, Masbate City. Bishop Baylon took over the diocese of Legazpi with
over a million Catholics, left vacant after the resignation of Bishop Nestor
Cariño on November 2007.
ELECTED. Sr. Ma. Jesusa Enginco, OP, as-
sistant executive secretary of the Episcopal
Commission on Catechesis and Catholic
Education (ECCCE) of the Catholic Bishops’
Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), as
Prioress General of the Congregation of
Dominican Sisters of St. Catherine of Siena.
The election was held on the last day of the
congregation’s General Chapter on Decem-
ber 15, 2009 in San Jose, Bulacan. Born on
March 29, 1944 at Igbaras, Iloilo, Enginco
made her perpetual profession as a Dominican religious in 1967. She
earned her Bachelor of Arts from Siena College in 1971 and her Bachelor
in Missionary Catechesis, Licentiate and Doctorate in Missiology from the
Pontifical University of Urbaniana in Rome, Italy. A linguist who speaks
German, Italian, French and English, Sr. Jess began her career in the
academe as a Religion teacher, Librarian and Moderator of Sodality of Our
Lady of Notre Dame of Marbel from 1964-66. She was Religion teacher
and office clerk at Siena College in Quezon City from 1966-67 and became
Principal of St. Charles School in San Francisco, USA from 1974-78. She
has made significant contributions to various programs of the Archdiocese
of Manila, Siena College, Philippine Catechetical Apostolate and Religious
Education Foundation, Inc., Philippine Association of Catholic Missiologists,
Sisters Formation Institute of Theology at University of Santo Tomas, and
as Chairperson of Mother Francisca Commission of the Dominican Gen-

Irish priest extols YouthPinoy installs

eralate House in Quezon City. She began working as Assistant Executive
Secretary of the CBCP-Episcopal Commission on Catechesis and Catholic
Education in 2005.

religious, family values new officers

CELEBRATED. Diocese of Mati, 25th foundation
anniversary, December 14, 2009. Papal nuncio in
the Philippines, Archbishop Edward Joseph Ad-
ams led the Pontifical Mass at the San Nicolas
Tolentino Cathedral together with Mati diocese

of Filipinos in Ireland
THE Filipinos’ religious values and deep family ties have won
the admiration of the Irish community in County Donegal,
Ireland.
Celebrating the Mass of the Immaculate Conception on Decem-
ber 8, 2009 in a Church packed with people, parish priest of St.
Mary’s Church Fr. Kieran McAteer, cited the positive contribu-
tion of the Filipino community in the country.
He said the Filipinos are living witnesses of the Catholic faith
in Ireland.
“Ireland is not a country of saints and scholars,” the priest said.
“When you came here to earn a living, we learned a lot from you
on how you value your family, your rich culture, your religios-
ity and your ability to stand up despite the recent tragedies that
ravaged your country,” he added.
The priest further reminded the faithful to respond to God’s
call readily like Mary.
“At times, we are afraid to say yes to God or we don’t want to
listen to His call” he said.
The Filipinos in County Donegal celebrated on December 8
their 6th Annual Filipino Day with its theme “Basta’t sama-sama,
Kayang-kaya”.
The theme has captured the true Filipino spirit of having a posi-
tive outlook in life despite the tragic events that have devastated
the Philippines in 2009.
After the solemn Eucharistic celebration, the people went to St.
Columbas gymnasium for refreshment and entertainment.
Delicious native delicacies were prepared to revive the barrio
fiesta spirit. Each family brought their own food and shared it
to the community.
Filipinos and some Irish participants entertained visitors from
neighboring counties with dances and songs.
A true communitarian spirit and thanksgiving marked the
celebration. Filipinos and Irish communities in County Done-
gal who actively participated in raising funds for Typhoon
Ondoy victims, joined the Annual Filipino Day. (Nathaniel
Cabanero)
LEGAZPI Bishop Joel Baylon of the CBCP Episcopal Commission
on Youth led on December 19, 2009 the installation of internal and
external affairs officers of YouthPinoy.
Together with Msgr. Pedro Quitorio of the CBCP Media Office
and Fr. Conegundo Garganta of ECY, Baylon welcomed the new
volunteer leaders from different youth organizations to render work
for the anticipated launch of the www.youthpinoy.com portal and
other programs of the YouthPinoy this 2010.
In a planning seminar held at the St. Pedro Poveda College in
Ortigas Center, letters of appointment were formally turned over
to Nirva dela Cruz and Ninaliz Donaire of the Couples from Christ
Global Missions Foundation, Inc. (CFC) as editors-in-chief of the
YouthPinoy portal; Firmo Bargayo of the Jesuit and Ma. Sheryl
Abalos of CFC as associate editors; Paula dela Peña as editorial as-
sistance; and Andrew Bonifacio of Prolife Philippines, Pia Rebucas
and Leah Custodio of CFC as section editors.
Dester Padilla of the CFC Foundation for Family and Life (FFL)
was installed as marketing director, Roxy San Juan of CFC FFL as
events committee head, Jacqueline Loto of the Dominican Network
as media committee head, and Kuh Belarmino of CFC FFL as Spon-
sorship Committee head.
Meanwhile, Richmond Tieng of the Filipino-Chinese Catholic
Youth was appointed as advertising committee head, Ma. Milari
Babia as correspondents committee head, Richard Zabala of the
Ministry of Youth Affairs of the Archdiocese of Manila as recruitment
committee head, and Lea Dasigan of the Salesian Youth Movement
as membership committee head.
The new officers will function for a term of one year as mandated
by YouthPinoy board of directors.
Established in response to the Holy Father’s call to bring evan-
gelization work in cyberspace, YouthPinoy is composed of young
Catholic Filipinos who use their talents and creativity in writing,
music, photography, film, and art to profess their faith.
Their Gospel reflections, spiritual blogs, praise songs, and Catholic
reviews of books, movies and music are published in the group’s
portal, aptly addressedwww.youthpinoy.com.
News and feature articles about the Catholic youth in the Philip-
pines and the youth apostolate nationwide are regularly published
and uploaded in the YouthPinoy portal, which is set to be formally
launched on January 16, 2010. (Kris Bayos)
Bishop Patricio Alo and diocesan clergy. Davao
Oriental’s development as a local Church can
be traced to the efforts of the early Spanish mis-
sionaries who brought the faith to the province. But
formal evangelization took off only in the 19th century
with the coming of various groups of religious orders and
missionaries such as the Augustinian Recollects and the Jesuits who served
in the province for almost a century. The Foreign Mission of Quebec Fathers,
also known as PME Fathers, and the Maryknoll Fathers also left their mark
in the province through the various parishes and schools they established
until the diocesan clergy took over in 1978. Mati was canonically erected
as a diocese on February 16, 1984 with Bishop Patricio Alo as first bishop.
Currently, it has 38 diocesan priests, 4 religious men congregations, and 12
religious women congregations assisting the bishop in the administration
of the sacraments, pastoral and social needs of the diocese. The diocese
comprises the entire civil jurisdiction of the whole province of Davao Oriental
with 11 Municipalities. It is ecclesiastically divided into 18 parishes.
ORDAINED. Rev. Jesus Puri Gozun, to the
sacred Order of Priesthood among the Soci-
ety of St. Paul (SSP), December 12, 2009.
His Excellency, San Fernando, Pampanga
Archbishop Paciano Aniceto led the ordina-
tion rites at the St. Ignatius of Loyola Parish
Church in Porac, Pampanga. The event which
was made more memorable because it coin-
cided with the universal Church’s celebration
of the Year for Priests was attended by priests,
brothers and seminarians from the Society of
St. Paul, local clergy, Sisters from the Pauline
Family and other religious congregations, family members, relatives and
friends. The Society of St. Paul founded in 1914 to preach the gospel through
the means of social communications is one of the 10 religious and secular
institutes established by Blessed James Alberione.
ORDAINED. Fr. Dominador D. Mercado Jr., Baclayon, Bohol; Fr. Roy B.
Baluarte, Brooke’s Point, Palawan; Fr. Christopher V. Gaspar, Valencia,
Negros Oriental; Fr. Renier I. Alviola, Valencia, Negros Oriental; to the
Sacred Order of Priesthood among the Order of Augustinian Recollects,
December 5, 2009. Most Rev. Teodoro Bacani, Jr. led the ordination rites
at the Our Lady of Consolation Parish, Tandang Sora, Quezon City.
CELEBRATED. Fr. Constantino B. Real, 25th anniversary of sacerdotal ordi-
nation, December 1, 2009. A member of the Order of Augustinian Recollects,
Fr. Real was a former president of the University of San Jose Recoletos,
Cebu City. He presided the Thanksgiving Mass at Mt. Carmel Parish, where
he was ordained in 1984. His confreres, AR sisters, family, relatives, friends
and the Josenian community attended the Eucharistic celebration.
CELEBRATED. 150th foundation anniversary of Ateneo de Manila Uni-
versity last December 10, 2009. The Society of Jesus, university alumni,
faculty, staff, students and friends, marked the event with a sesquicenten-

Biblical activities to spice up Bible Week celebration
THE Episcopal Commission on Biblical
Apostolate (ECBA) of the Catholic Bishops’
Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has
lined up various activities in celebration of
National Bible Week slated from January 25
to 31, 2010.
ECBA executive secretary Fr. Oscar Alun-
day, in a letter sent to different dioceses and
partners in the Biblical-Pastoral Ministry,
said the Bible Week celebration “calls for
unity in making the prayer of Jesus come
true, that ‘they may all be one, as you, Father,
are in me, and I in you, that they also may
be one in us…’ (Jn 17:21)”
Alunday said the Bible week festivities
will be an occasion for everyone to deepen
their knowledge of the Scriptures.
“[It will give] us a chance to explore dif-
ferent approaches in deepening our experi-
ence of the Living Word in the sanctuary of
our homes and families, in our busy life in
schools, offices and institutions, in centers of
formation and renewal, in the government
and military service and in the Basic Ecclesial
Communities,” he said.
Planned activities include Bible Enthrone-
ment in homes and families, in classrooms
and offices, in chapels and Churches (also on
birthdays, anniversaries etc), and integrating
it in novenas, devotions and where it is pos-
sible in liturgical celebrations; Gospel Shar-
ing in homes and in the BEC, before or after
Holy Mass, in different occasions; Ecumeni-
cal Bible Parade and Bible Rally with biblical
quotations in posters and flaglets.
To encourage the public, especially those
in government offices to participate in Bible
reading in accordance to Presidential Decree
Nos. 1923 (1979, Marcos) and Presidential
Proclamation 44 (1986, Aquino), and PP 1067
(Ramos), ECBA proposes to biblical anima-
tors to request a letter of endorsement or
municipal ordinance from authorities.
A request for a Pastoral Letter from the
Local Bishop is also advised to encourage the
full participation of the faithful in reading,
studying, praying, celebrating and support-
ing the national bible week celebration and
the Bible Sunday Collection. During Bible
Week, 40 percent of the collection goes to
the diocese, 30 percent to the region and 30
percent to ECBA.
Other activities are Family Bible Quiz
(Youth Bible Quiz, Children’s Bible Quiz,
Senior Citizens’ Bible Quiz); Biblia Sports
Festival: Biblialakad (pilgrims walking to
Shrine); Bibliabola (games with biblical
names of teams); Bibliagala (public reading
and parade of biblical personalities in dif-
ferent attires); Gospel Song Festivals (and
concerts): public contest during the week;
semi-finalists on Saturday and Champion-
ship on Bible Sunday; Live Radio interviews
and Updates on the daily activities during
the National Bible Week; Salitext: forwarding
biblical verse and Bible Anime; and con-
tinuous reading of the Bible from Genesis to
Revelation in the afternoon of Jan.30, eve of
National Bible Sunday. (CBCPNews)
nial Mass celebrated at the Church of the Gesu located at the University
compound. Fr. Jose Magadia, provincial superior of the Society of Jesus
in the Philippines led the celebration of the anniversary Mass.
CELEBRATED. Sr. Brenda Balingasa, 25th anniversary of religious pro-
fession among the Sisters of Jesus the Good Shepherd, also known as
“Pastorelle Sisters”; January 1, 2010. Bishop Pedro Arigo, Bishop of Puerto
Princesa, presided the Thanksgiving Mass at the Our Lady of the Pillar Par-
ish, Imus, Cavite. The congregation of the Pastorelle Sisters is one of the
ten religious and secular institutes founded by Blessed James Alberione
that comprised the Pauline Family.
DIED. Sr. Mary Assumption Ocampo, RGS,
the first Filipina member of the congregation
of Good Shepherd Sisters passed away at
age 102, in the Good Shepherd convent in
Baguio City. Ocampo spent a greater part of
her life in Baguio sending poor girls to school
through a training program she helped es-
tablish. The nun pioneered the foundation of
Mountain Maid Training Center (MMTC) that
produces the well-known Baguio ube jam and
strawberry preserves, among other things. The center employs poor girls
from Cordillera region to work in the center in exchange for a study program.
Having entered the congregation’s novitiate in Angers, France in 1935 as
its first Filipina candidate, Ocampo made her first religious profession in
1938. She spent ten years as a missionary in Caracas, Venezuela, where
she helped minister to women in prison. Assigned in Baguio in 1975, she
remained there until her death. Her remains were laid to rest in the congre-
gation’s graveyard within the compound of the Central House in Quezon
City on December 13, 2009.
 Pastoral Concerns
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 1
January 4 - 17, 2010
If you want to cultivate
peace, protect creation
Message of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI for the celebration of the World Day of Peace, 1 January 2010
1. AT the beginning of this New Year, I wish to
offer heartfelt greetings of peace to all Christian
communities, international leaders, and people
of good will throughout the world. For this XLIII
World Day of Peace I have chosen the theme: If
You Want to Cultivate Peace, Protect Creation.
Respect for creation is of immense consequence,
not least because “creation is the beginning and
the foundation of all God’s works”,[1] and its
preservation has now become essential for the
pacific coexistence of mankind. Man’s inhumanity
to man has given rise to numerous threats to peace
and to authentic and integral human development
– wars, international and regional conflicts, acts
of terrorism, and violations of human rights. Yet
no less troubling are the threats arising from the
neglect – if not downright misuse – of the earth
and the natural goods that God has given us. For
this reason, it is imperative that mankind renew
and strengthen “that covenant between human
beings and the environment, which should mirror
the creative love of God, from whom we come and
towards whom we are journeying”.[2]
2. In my Encyclical Caritas in Veritate, I noted that
integral human development is closely linked to
the obligations which flow from man’s relationship
with the natural environment. The environment
must be seen as God’s gift to all people, and the
use we make of it entails a shared responsibility
for all humanity, especially the poor and future
generations. I also observed that whenever nature,
and human beings in particular, are seen merely as
products of chance or an evolutionary determinism,
our overall sense of responsibility wanes.[3] On
the other hand, seeing creation as God’s gift to
humanity helps us understand our vocation and
worth as human beings. With the Psalmist, we
can exclaim with wonder: “When I look at your
heavens, the work of your hands, the moon and
the stars which you have established; what is man
that you are mindful of him, and the son of man
that you care for him?” (Ps 8:4-5). Contemplating
the beauty of creation inspires us to recognize the
love of the Creator, that Love which “moves the
sun and the other stars”.[4]
3. Twenty years ago, Pope John Paul II devoted
his Message for the World Day of Peace to the
theme: Peace with God the Creator, Peace with
All of Creation. He emphasized our relationship,
as God’s creatures, with the universe all around
us. “In our day”, he wrote, “there is a growing
awareness that world peace is threatened … also
by a lack of due respect for nature”. He added
that “ecological awareness, rather than being
downplayed, needs to be helped to develop and
mature, and find fitting expression in concrete
programmes and initiatives”.[5] Previous Popes
had spoken of the relationship between human
beings and the environment. In 1971, for example,
on the eightieth anniversary of Leo XIII’s Encyclical
Rerum Novarum, Paul VI pointed out that “by an
ill-considered exploitation of nature (man) risks
destroying it and becoming in his turn the victim
of this degradation”. He added that “not only is
the material environment becoming a permanent
menace—pollution and refuse, new illnesses and
absolute destructive capacity—but the human
framework is no longer under man’s control, thus
creating an environment for tomorrow which
may well be intolerable. This is a wide-ranging
social problem which concerns the entire human
family”.[6]
4. Without entering into the merit of specific
technical solutions, the Church is nonetheless
concerned, as an “expert in humanity”, to call
attention to the relationship between the Creator,
human beings and the created order. In 1990 John
Paul II had spoken of an “ecological crisis” and, in
highlighting its primarily ethical character, pointed
to the “urgent moral need for a new solidarity”.[7]
His appeal is all the more pressing today, in the
face of signs of a growing crisis which it would be
irresponsible not to take seriously. Can we remain
indifferent before the problems associated with
such realities as climate change, desertification,
the deterioration and loss of productivity in vast
agricultural areas, the pollution of rivers and
aquifers, the loss of biodiversity, the increase
of natural catastrophes and the deforestation of
equatorial and tropical regions? Can we disregard
the growing phenomenon of “environmental
refugees”, people who are forced by the degradation
of their natural habitat to forsake it—and often their
possessions as well—in order to face the dangers
and uncertainties of forced displacement? Can we
remain impassive in the face of actual and potential
conflicts involving access to natural resources? All
these are issues with a profound impact on the
exercise of human rights, such as the right to life,
food, health and development.
5. It should be evident that the ecological crisis
cannot be viewed in isolation from other related
questions, since it is closely linked to the notion
of development itself and our understanding of
man in his relationship to others and to the rest of
B1
© Rodne Galicha
creation. Prudence would thus dictate a profound,
long-term review of our model of development,
one which would take into consideration the
meaning of the economy and its goals with an eye
to correcting its malfunctions and misapplications.
The ecological health of the planet calls for this,
but it is also demanded by the cultural and moral
crisis of humanity whose symptoms have for some
time been evident in every part of the world.[8]
Humanity needs a profound cultural renewal; it
needs to rediscover those values which can serve
as the solid basis for building a brighter future for
all. Our present crises – be they economic, food-
related, environmental or social – are ultimately
also moral crises, and all of them are interrelated.
They require us to rethink the path which we are
travelling together. Specifically, they call for a
lifestyle marked by sobriety and solidarity, with
new rules and forms of engagement, one which
focuses confidently and courageously on strategies
that actually work, while decisively rejecting those
that have failed. Only in this way can the current
crisis become an opportunity for discernment and
new strategic planning.
6. Is it not true that what we call “nature” in
a cosmic sense has its origin in “a plan of love
and truth”? The world “is not the product of any
necessity whatsoever, nor of blind fate or chance…
The world proceeds from the free will of God; he
wanted to make his creatures share in his being,
in his intelligence, and in his goodness”.[9] The
Book of Genesis, in its very first pages, points to
the wise design of the cosmos: it comes forth from
God’s mind and finds its culmination in man and
Creation / B2
© Rodne Galicha
 B2 Updates CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 1
January 4 - 17, 2010

Baptism
Doctrinal Declarations of
Episcopal Conferences
of the
Lord and
Ordinary By Fr. Jaime B. Achacoso, Following are extensive intend to proclaim such teachings since the procedure for their

Time J.C.D. quotations, which are sufficiently

clear and concise, as to need
by a definitive act”, may be voted
on. Such teachings or parts of them
approval (cf. CIC, c.455, §2)
differs from that to be employed

www.gloriadeichurch.org
only very brief commentaries may be quoted in any document for the approval of doctrinal
(Father Edward McNamara, I am very grateful for the Pastoral (the numbers correspond to the of the Episcopal Conference or declarations.
professor of liturgy at Letters issued by the Catholic Bishops’ original articulation of the Letter, Commissions without, however, 3. With regard to the approval
the Regina Apostolorum Conference of the Philippines for ease of reference). voting on them. of doctrinal declarations, in
university, answers the with certain regularity, touching “These indications−as the From the foregoing it is clear accordance with AS, n.22, the
following query:) on the varied issues affecting document states− pertain that the mind of the Holy See following formula is proposed
Philippine society. Almost always, especially to the object of is that doctrinal declarations of for insertion into the Statutes of
Q: Is the feast of the Baptism of the Lord part of the Christmas they deal with matters of morals or doctrinal declarations, which the Episcopal Conferences for each Episcopal Conference:
season? It seems that it is, according to Sections 32 to 38 of the General discipline—e.g., guidelines for the have authentic magisterial the most part consist in quoting “In order to constitute authentic
Norms for the Liturgical Year and the Calendar. Also, when does faithful in exercising their right character and to the procedure or reiterating existing Church magisterium and be published
Ordinary Time start? Section 44 seems to say that it starts on the to vote, the ethical dimensions of for their approval.” doctrine−i.e., without need in the name of the Conference,
Monday after Baptism of the Lord.—J.T., Singapore the Reproductive Right Bill, etc. 1. Doctrinal declarations may for voting new formulations. doctrinal declarations must
However, I almost never read of be submitted to a vote of the This would explain the rarity be approved in the Plenary
A: Here are the relevant texts from the introduction to the pronouncements of a doctrinal Bishops, gathered at Conference, of doctrinal pronouncements Assembly by unanimous vote
lectionary: nature. At times, I am at a loss when it is retained that it is of the CBCP. This tendency is of the Bishop members, or by a
“33. The Christmas season runs from evening prayer I of Christmas on certain matters of Catholic necessary to deal “with new further bolstered by another majority of at least two thirds of
until the Sunday after Epiphany or after 6 January, inclusive. doctrine—e.g., whether or not the questions and (to act) so that provision for a reduction of the Bishops holding a deliberative
“38. The Sunday falling after 6 January is the feast of the doctrine of Humanae Vitae against the message of Christ enlightens documents emanating from vote. In the latter case, the
Baptism of the Lord. contraception is infallible, or whether and guides people’s conscience Episcopal Commissions: recognitio of the Holy See must
“43. Apart from those seasons having their own distinctive I should take as truth the teachings of in resolving new problems 10. A reduction in the number precede promulgation.”
character, thirty-three or thirty-four weeks remain in the yearly the theology professors in a Catholic arising from changes in society” of documents emanating from 4. Within their respective
cycle that do not celebrate a specific aspect of the mystery of university—and I would then wish (AS, n.22). If duly approved the Episcopal Commissions territories the Congregation for
Christ. Rather, especially on the Sundays, they are devoted to the CBCP were more forthright in such declarations constitute is desirable so as to avoid Bishops and the Congregation
the mystery of Christ in all its aspects. This period is known declaring certain things as Catholic “authentic Magisterium”. an excessive proliferation of for the Evangelization of Peoples
as Ordinary Time.
“44. Ordinary Time begins on Monday after the Sunday following
6 January and continues until Tuesday before Ash Wednesday
inclusive. It begins again on Monday after Pentecost and ends
before evening prayer I of the First Sunday of Advent.”
From this, I think it is clear that the feast of the Baptism of
the Lord is part of Christmastide and brings it to a close.
The Monday which follows it initiates the first week of
Ordinary Time and, like the week following Pentecost, is a
“week” of six days, Monday through Saturday.
The following Sunday is the second Sunday of Ordinary
Time, or perhaps more precisely, Sunday of the second week
of Ordinary Time. This latter formulation allows us to see more
clearly why there is no first Sunday of Ordinary Time in the
missal, a fact which might have induced some, including a
widely diffused missal for the faithful, to state that the Baptism
of the Lord was in fact the first Sunday.
That this is not the case is also shown from the fact that the
feast is sometimes celebrated on a Monday that is Jan. 9. This
happens only in those countries that transfer the Epiphany to
the Sunday between Jan. 2 and 8. When Christmas Day falls
on a Sunday, Epiphany falls on Jan. 8, and so the Christmas
season ends the following day.
It is further confirmed by the rubrics of the Liturgy of the
Hours. After the concluding prayer of this feast’s vespers, a
rubric laconically proclaims: “The end of Christmastide.”

© Roy Lagarde/CBCP Media

doctrine. Is there any reason why
the Bishops are so sparing in such
pronouncements?
The Teaching Office of the
Episcopal Conference
The above question
was clarified in a Letter,
dated 13.V.1999 sent by
the Congregation for
Bishops−although prepared in
collaboration with the Secretariat
of State, the Congregation for
the Doctrine of the Faith, the
Congregation for the Oriental
Churches and the Pontifical
Council for the Interpretation
of Legislative Texts−to the
Presidents of the Episcopal
Conferences. That Letter, in
turn, was issued after several
consultation from Episcopal
Conferences regarding the
Motu Proprio, Apostolos suos
(AS)−On the Theological and
Juridical Nature of Episcopal
Conferences−which was issued
by John Paul II on 21.V.1998.
In the aforementioned Letter,
the Holy See laid down quite
stringent provisions for the
exercise of the teaching office
by the Episcopal Conferences.
In the exercise of their conjoint
ministry, the Bishops should
be aware that the doctrine of
the Church forms part of the
patrimony of the entire People
of God and is the bond of its
communion. Thus, they “must
take special care to follow the
magisterium of the universal
Church and to communicate
it opportunely to the people
entrusted to them” (AS, n.21).
In the light of the Motu Proprio
Ad tuendam fidem (18.V.1998,
nn.2 3), therefore, doctrinal
declarations or parts of them may
not be submitted to a vote of the
Conference if they reproduce
teaching “contained in the Word
of God, whether written or
handed down in Tradition,
which the Church, either by a
solemn judgment or by ordinary
universal Magisterium, sets
forth to be believed as divinely
revealed”. Likewise, neither
“teaching concerning faith or
morals definitively proposed
by the Church” nor “teaching
enunciated by the Roman Pontiff
or the College of Bishops when
they exercise their authentic
Magisterium, even if they do not
documents and those difficulties,
experienced in many places,
in ascertaining the degree of
authority with which such
documents are invested.
Care in the Preparation of
Doctrinal Declarations
The Letter then proceeded
to provide for the care in
which doctrinal declarations
should be prepared in the
Episcopal Conference−not only
in their redaction, but also in
the requirement for unanimity
in the Episcopal Conference for
a given doctrine to be considered
authentic magisteriu, or the
necessary recognitio from the
Holy See in the absence of such
unanimity.
2. By their very nature,
doctrinal declarations issued
by Episcopal Conferences differ
from the general decrees of
the same Conferences. In view
of this, from a redactional
viewpoint, it is important that
a specific article of the Statutes
of Conferences be devoted to
doctrinal declarations. General
decrees should be addressed in
a separate article of the Statutes
are competent to concede the
recognitio of the Holy See for
doctrinal declarations produced
by an Episcopal Conference. The
texts of authentic declarations are
to be sent to the aforementioned
dicasteries which will provide
for the concession of the
recognitio, having consulted
the Congregation for the Doctrine
of the Faith and the Pontifical
Council for the Interpretation of
Legislative Texts. In the case of
Episcopal Conferences whose
statutes number Oriental rite
Bishops among their members
with a deliberative vote, the
dicastery competent for the
concession of the recognitio
will also hear the opinion of the
Congregation for the Oriental
Churches.
Conclusion
To sum up, even if the primary
task of the Bishops is to teach,
this is a task that pertains to the
individual Bishop and toward
his proper flock. The CBCP really
has very little leeway to come up
with doctrinal declarations of its
own−other than reiterate already
existing Church doctrine.

Creation / B1
woman, made in the image and likeness
of the Creator to “fill the earth” and to
“have dominion over” it as “stewards” of
God himself (cf. Gen 1:28). The harmony
between the Creator, mankind and the
created world, as described by Sacred
Scripture, was disrupted by the sin of
Adam and Eve, by man and woman,
who wanted to take the place of God
and refused to acknowledge that they
were his creatures. As a result, the
work of “exercising dominion” over
the earth, “tilling it and keeping it”,
was also disrupted, and conflict arose
within and between mankind and the
rest of creation (cf. Gen 3:17-19). Human
beings let themselves be mastered
by selfishness; they misunderstood
the meaning of God’s command and
exploited creation out of a desire to
exercise absolute domination over it.
But the true meaning of God’s original
command, as the Book of Genesis clearly
shows, was not a simple conferral
of authority, but rather a summons
to responsibility. The wisdom of the
ancients had recognized that nature is
not at our disposal as “a heap of scattered
refuse”.[10] Biblical Revelation made us
see that nature is a gift of the Creator, who
gave it an inbuilt order and enabled man
to draw from it the principles needed to
“till it and keep it” (cf. Gen. 2:15).[11]
Everything that exists belongs to God,
who has entrusted it to man, albeit not
for his arbitrary use. Once man, instead
of acting as God’s co-worker, sets himself
up in place of God, he ends up provoking
a rebellion on the part of nature, “which
is more tyrannized than governed by
him”.[12] Man thus has a duty to exercise
responsible stewardship over creation,
to care for it and to cultivate it.[13]
7. Sad to say, it is all too evident that
large numbers of people in different
countries and areas of our planet
are experiencing increased hardship
because of the negligence or refusal
of many others to exercise responsible
stewardship over the environment. The
Second Vatican Ecumenical Council
reminded us that “God has destined the
earth and everything it contains for all
peoples and nations”.[14] The goods of
creation belong to humanity as a whole.
Yet the current pace of environmental
exploitation is seriously endangering
the supply of certain natural resources
not only for the present generation, but
above all for generations yet to come.[15]
It is not hard to see that environmental
degradation is often due to the lack of
far-sighted official policies or to the
pursuit of myopic economic interests,
which then, tragically, become a serious
threat to creation. To combat this
phenomenon, economic activity needs
to consider the fact that “every economic
decision has a moral consequence”
[16] and thus show increased respect
for the environment. When making
use of natural resources, we should
be concerned for their protection
and consider the cost entailed—
environmentally and socially—as an
essential part of the overall expenses
incurred. The international community
and national governments are
responsible for sending the right signals
in order to combat effectively the misuse
of the environment. To protect the
environment, and to safeguard natural
resources and the climate, there is a
need to act in accordance with clearly-
defined rules, also from the juridical
and economic standpoint, while at the
same time taking into due account the
solidarity we owe to those living in the
poorer areas of our world and to future
generations.
8. A greater sense of intergenerational
solidarity is urgently needed. Future
generations cannot be saddled with the
cost of our use of common environmental
resources. “We have inherited from past
generations, and we have benefited
from the work of our contemporaries;
for this reason we have obligations
towards all, and we cannot refuse to
interest ourselves in those who will come
after us, to enlarge the human family.
Universal solidarity represents a benefit
as well as a duty. This is a responsibility
that present generations have towards
those of the future, a responsibility that
also concerns individual States and the
international community”.[17] Natural
resources should be used in such a way
that immediate benefits do not have a
negative impact on living creatures,
human and not, present and future; that
the protection of private property does
not conflict with the universal destination
of goods;[18] that human activity does
not compromise the fruitfulness of the
earth, for the benefit of people now
and in the future. In addition to a fairer
sense of intergenerational solidarity
there is also an urgent moral need for
a renewed sense of intragenerational
solidarity, especially in relationships
between developing countries and
highly industrialized countries: “the
international community has an urgent
Creation / B4

CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 1
January 4 - 17, 2010
By Kris Bayos
POPE John Paul II was known
to have nursed a one-of-a-kind
fondness for the youth that may
have stemmed from a need for
a new form of evangelization
where communications media
will play a vital role. JP
II, or as the youth used to
endearingly call him, has
discussed the urgency for this
kind of evangelization in an
encyclical he had published
back in 1990.
Yet another response to make the
internet a new forum to proclaim the
Gospel In Redemptoris Missio, the Pope
said he sensed “that the moment has come
to commit all of the Church’s energies to a
new evangelization and to the mission ad
gentes.” He firmly said that “no believer
in Christ, no institution of the Church
can avoid this supreme duty: to proclaim
Christ to all peoples.”
Although the creation of the World
Wide Web at that time was still a
proposal being studied by circles of
computer scientists, JP II apparently
sensed that “something new” will
rejuvenate how evangelization work is
done. Even without knowing about the
internet and its potential reach among
the Catholic faithful, the Pope published
an encyclical that basically predicted its
inevitable establishment. Little did he
know that his own “words will become
flesh” later on.
On the occasion of the 36th World
Communications Day on May 12, 2002,
JP II’s perception about a new form of
evangelization gained its shape when he
urged the Catholic faithful to utilize the
internet as a new forum for proclaiming
the Gospel. JP II said that “the Internet
can offer magnificent opportunities for
evangelization if used with competence
and a clear awareness of its strengths
and weaknesses.”
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of
the Philippines responded to the Holy
Father’s call and launched on the same
day CBCPWorld in a vision to radically
transform Information Technology into
a forum for promoting the Gospel and
human values.
In partnership with Transpacific
Broadcast Group International
(TBGI), the CBCP Communications
Development Foundation, Inc. has
utilized the CBCPWorld Corporation’s
services in providing filtered broadband
internet connectivity to over a hundred
Catholic schools, dioceses, congregations
and Church partners nationwide.
The CBCP once again responded
Features
B3
YouthPinoy
Yet another response to make
the internet a new forum to
proclaim the Gospel
The YouthPinoy portal went online October 11, 2009 were Eilleen Esteban of For them “Winning the World through
on April 3, 2009 in time for the Lenten the Dominican Network as president, the Word,” best describes the aim
when season and since then featured creative April Frances Ortigas of Couples for of the YouthPinoy group and its
JP II’s means of advocating Catholic values Christ Global Missions Foundation, website to utilize creative means of
successor, Pope Benedict XVI, and teachings among the Filipino youth Inc. as internal vice president, Xavier evangelization through online media to
called on the youth to utilize the through news and feature articles, blogs, Padilla of Couples for Christ Foundation advocate Catholic values and teachings
emerging environment of digital reflections, polls, homilies, and reviews, for Family and Life as external vice among the Filipino youth. The three
communication to play their role in the among others. president, Kris Bayos of the CBCP Media W’s likewise suggest the medium by
Church’s mission of evangelization. Although the portal is being Office as secretary general, Bernadette which YouthPinoy will do its part in
In his message for the 43rd World maintained by the YouthPinoy Felix of Chiro Youth Movement as evangelization work—through the
Day of Communications last May 24, volunteers’ labor of love, the need to secretary, and Jectoffer So of the Filipino- World Wide Web.
Pope Benedict XVI has recognized the mobilize them necessitated funding. Chinese Catholic Youth as treasurer. The tagline compliments the logo,
capacity of the internet to create more This prompted Baylon and Quitorio to which was created by Blair Jereza of
innovative means in helping building allow the group to solicit funds from YouthPinoy logo and battlecry CFC Global Missions Foundation, Inc.
and strengthening friendships and individuals who believes in the cause In the same seminar, Baylon, Quitorio Although there was no globe in Jereza’s
relationships among geographically- of the group and the website. Among and the YouthPinoy officers agreed to entry, his was chosen from at least six
separated individuals and entries because it outshone
communities, regardless of “Young people, I appeal to the other logos for its
race or religion. you: bear witness to your faith creative incorporation of
Given the potentials of the aspect of nationalism
the online media, the Pope
through the digital world! and faith in the logo.
appealed to the youth, who Employ these new technologies The significant aspect of
have grown adept with the to make the Gospel known, so Jereza’s logo is a depiction
technological innovations, that the Good News of God’s of a person stretching
to make use of the digital his hands upward to
media in living up their
infinite love for all people will symbolize the Catholic
faith and morals. resound in new ways across youth’s faithful devotion
“Young people, I appeal our increasingly technological to the Lord. The red, blue,
to you: bear witness to your world!” yellow colors of the person
faith through the digital and the three stars above
world! Employ these new
-- Pope Benedict XVI, May 2009 him adapt the colors and
technologies to make the design of the Philippine
Gospel known, so that Flag so as to emphasize
the Good News of God’s the origin of the portal and
infinite love for all people to credit the Philippine
will resound in new ways bishops and church leaders
across our increasingly behind its establishment.
technological world!” he
said. Website contents
The logo and battle
Beginnings cry of YouthPinoy have
The CBCP’s response to “Winning the World through the been pillars that subtly
Pope Benedict’s challenge Word” best describes the aim influenced the website.
the contents of
first materialized when the
Episcopal Commission on of the YouthPinoy group and To update visitors
Youth (ECY) and CBCP its website to utilize creative about the goings on in
Media Office gathered a means of evangelization the youth apostolate, a
group of youth leaders, through online media to news section is provided
ministers, missionaries and to document the activities
coordinators on December advocate Catholic values and and events of the youth
6, 2008 to brainstorm on teachings among the Filipino ministry in general and
the feasibility of setting up youth. The three W’s likewise the youth organizations in
a website for the Filipino suggest the medium by which the parishes, schools, and
Catholic Youth. communities in specific.
Through the efforts and
YouthPinoy will do its part in On the other hand, the
guidance of ECY chairman evangelization work—through feature section was created
and Legazpi Bishop Joel the World Wide Web. in line with the themes of
Baylon and CBCP Media the Liturgical Calendar in
Office director Msgr. YouthPinoy’s illustrious benefactors coming up with articles
Pedro Quitorio III, the group was include Apostolic Nuncio in the organize the formal launching of www. interesting to the youth.
transformed into a community of young Philippines Archbishop Edward Joseph youthpinoy.com as the CBCP’s website To get the visitors inspired with
Catholic Filipinos that aims to bring Adams, Manila Archbishop Gaudencio for the youth. a dose of God’s Words, the website
evangelization work to cyberspace. Cardinal Rosales, and the Dominican Since the logo has already been also features daily servings of Gospel
After months of focus group Province of the Philippines. created just before the website was and Bible readings, complimented by
discussions and volunteer recruitments, ThegrowingmembershipofYouthPinoy online, the group brainstormed on the homily blogs from priests and spiritual
the group, initially consisted of also prompted Baylon and Quitorio to battle cry that will be identified with reflections from youth writers.
representatives of at least 10 members appoint officers to direct the website the YouthPinoy and its vision, that is to To echo the messages of Church
of the Federation of National Youth contents, alongside its various projects that be a catalyst for the unity, cooperation, leaders to the youth, the website also
Organizations (FNYO), has come to be aim to promote social awareness. and communication among the different reposts videos of and from the Holy
called YouthPinoy and its website as Appointed during YouthPinoy’s first Catholic youth organizations and Father, the CBCP and other bishops that
www.youthpinoy.com. planning seminar in Morong, Bataan on ministry offices in the Philippines. YouthPinoy / B4
 Features
CBCP Monitor
B4 Vol. 14 No. 1
January 4 - 17, 2010

Lisbon’s Filipino Chaplaincy unites

Filipino migrants as one family
By Fr. Edwin Corros, CS
A country located close to northern
Africa, Portugal enjoys a relatively
warmer winter and cooler summer. It is
a great vacation destination for Western
Europeans, especially those coming
from the north and the Scandinavian
countries. Rich in its own culture and
tradition, Portugal unfortunately has
been left out by other European countries
in terms of economic development, but it
is not poor either as it continues to host
numerous migrants from countries it has
once dominated such as Capo Verde,
Guine Visao, Mozambique, Angola
and Brazil.
Moreover, there are thousands
from Eastern Europe especially from
Ukraine who find work in Portugal.
The Filipinos are there too. They are
not as many as those in Italy, Spain or
England, nevertheless their presence in
not negligible. According to the current
chaplain to the Filipino community in
Portugal, the Filipinos numbered about
3,500 as recorded in 2007 at the Philippine
Embassy in Paris, France. About 90
percent of them work and live in Lisbon
which is the country’s capital. Most of
them had arrived in the country through
the invitation and sponsorship of their
employers when they were still working
in Macau. Talking to some of them in the
Church, they claimed that their presence
in Portugal could be traced back to their
employment with Portuguese diplomats
and businessmen in Macau who had
eventually left the tiny island and went
back to Portugal. Many of these Filipinos
work in big and wealthy households in
the city, others in the restaurants.
The Filipino community has been
cohesively celebrating Tagalog mass at
the Church of Corpo Santo in Lisbon
City after a Filipino SVD
missionary was assigned by
his congregation to work
in Portugal. Although the
Filipino presence in Portugal
dates back as far as twenty
years ago, they were not
organized into a Filipino
chaplaincy immediately.
There were accounts of the
usual presence of Filipino
priests learning Portuguese
language in view of their
missionary assignment to
African countries formerly
colonized by Portugal, such
as Angola or Mozambique.
Understandably, such
temporary presence did not
allow the Filipinos to establish
a Filipino chaplaincy albeit
there was an existence of
some Filipino associations
and informal groups.
Last year in September,
Fr. Jovito Osalvo, an SVD
priest assigned in Portugal
by his congregation to work
in Europe had finally established
a chaplaincy for the Filipinos after
completing his studies of the Portuguese
language. With the task given by his
superior and the assistance of active
Filipino volunteers, the chaplaincy was
born. His work is not only among the
Filipinos. He has been helping too one
of the English-speaking communities in
the archdiocese of Lisbon. Just after one
year of its birth, one could immediately
feel the spirit of belongingness among the
Filipinos. This is very apparent during
the Sunday mass celebrated in Filipino
at 12:15 in the Church of Corpo Santo.
About a hundred of them come regularly
to fill up the old Church administered
by the Dominican priests. On certain
Sundays, when the Filipino community
is merged with the English-speaking
community, the modest structure of the
Church located at the heart of the city is
filled up to capacity – mainly by migrants
of diverse backgrounds.
To most Filipinos who attend Sunday
Mass at Corpo Santo, the birth of the
chaplaincy led them to become united.
There were criticisms hurled against
the leaders of the chaplaincy, but the
chaplain is more focused in developing
the ministry. In fact, after one year
of existence, the Filipino community
has attained much more than what it
expected to accomplish. The chaplain
helped form and organize the various
ministries of the chaplaincy. He also
created a pastoral council composed of
active leaders who had tirelessly devoted
their services even before the chaplaincy
was formally established. He likewise
facilitated in pooling donations to certain
missions in Africa and recently to the
typhoon victims in the Philippines.
When I celebrated mass with the
Filipinos in my first visit to Lisbon ECMI’s
thoughts on the consistent feminization
of migration in this part of Europe
was confirmed. Over 70 percent of the
parishioners were women. The presence
of many Filipino women migrants was
attributed to the availability of jobs in
Portugal that cater mainly for women.
There are also Filipino families present
in Portugal. Their existence was made
possible through family unification
allowed by the European migration
policy which is rarely experienced in
Portugal considering the difficulty of
finding job sponsorship for the very able
spouse. Filipino children are born out
of this arrangement. Family unification
allows migrants to live normal family
life with their children and spouse
unlike when they are not completely
living together as family which is mostly
experienced by the majority of migrant
workers in Asia or the Middle East.
A small slice of the pie among
the Filipino community in Lisbon
constitutes the Filipino women married
to the Portuguese. Some had been long
married to their Portuguese husband,
while others had just recently arrived.
A number of them have adjusted well to
the foreign culture and way of life while
others are still struggling to adjust not
only as foreigners, but as wives wanting
to help their families back home but
they could not due to fact that their
roles have been relegated to full time
housekeeping.
My visit as a representative of the
Episcopal Commission on Migrants and
Itinerant People (ECMI) to the Filipino
community in Lisbon has allowed the
commission to present the Philippines
Church’s programs and services to the
families of Filipino migrants. Held at
the residence of the SVDs at Sao Tomas
de Aquino, I took advantage of this
visit to inform the migrants of what the
Philippine Church is doing for their
families in the Philippines. In a forty-
five minute power point presentation,
I showed an assortment of programs
and activities the Church had organized
in various dioceses and parishes in the
Philippines for the families of migrants.
The Filipino migrants in Lisbon are
grateful to the Church for making their their migrant-relatives as their fat bank
families understand their actual situation accounts. Both of them need to be
as migrant workers overseas. It was guided.
the first time the Filipino community The Filipino chaplaincy has the
in Portugal learned of the Church’s advantage to guide and remind Filipino
initiatives for their families back home. migrants overseas of the aforementioned
After the presentation, I was flooded with reality. The Filipino migrants in Lisbon are
questions, several inquiring whether the grateful for having Fr. Jovito as chaplain.
services and programs of ECMI were also He is young and full of enthusiasm in
available in their dioceses. developing the community. He is in the
I explained that the ECMI is trying best position to accompany the Filipino
its best to reach out to all dioceses to community who expect more from
help them establish their migration him. They have longed for someone
ministry, since it is apparent that to lead them and to unite a number of
migration is simply equated to groups that are divided due to personal
gripes and unmet
selfish agenda. Some
parishioners hope
their chaplain will
help and assist them.
But the chaplain being
new in the country has
expressed prudence
and cautiousness
in dealing with the
Filipino migrants
as he learns more
of their realities
and challenges in
Portugal.
In an informal
meeting with the
Filipino community,
they expressed their
desiretothePhilippine
government to
consider putting up
a diplomatic office
in Portugal. It was
brought up when the
issue of the overseas
absentee voting
(OAV) in view of
the forthcoming
national election
was discussed. They
expressed dismay
for the failure of the
Philippines Embassy
in Paris to attend to
their needs, including
the OAV issue. They
lamented too of
having to take a plane
to Paris or catch a
Celebrating Mass with the Filipino community at long trip to Madrid
Corpo Santo Church in Lisbon
in order to transact
business for consular
needs. Despite their
remittance. Society seems to neglect small number in Portugal, the Filipino
or had failed to see the other issues community feels that the Philippine
pertinent to migration. True enough, government should also look after their
many of those present in that afternoon needs for they too send a substantial
presentation lamented the fact that amount of money to the country each
their relatives would call them merely month, they said. It was indicated that
to request for more money. a single Filipino migrant in Portugal
It was noticeable that Filipinos in remits a minimum of 350 Euros monthly.
Portugal and other countries as well, They deserve the care of the Philippine
considered remittances as the only government, a reasonable appeal
source of income for their families. In indeed from the Filipino community
fact, majority of their family members in Lisbon.
had been completely dependent on it. As to the number of undocumented
A good number of migrant workers on Filipinos in Portugal, nobody really
the other hand had been complaining knows how many there are. With the
that the remittance they were sending rest of Filipinos who come for Mass on
was still not enough even how much Sundays, Fr. Jovito and his volunteers are
they had raised its amount. A pinch of equally concerned of the challenge that
disappointment was mirrored among come in assisting those who happened to
the faces of the Filipino migrants as they work without proper documents. Such
complained of their families’ attitude is part of the mission that the Filipino
towards them. chaplaincy will have to address.
Nevertheless, they feel guilty if they
are not able to send something. So they (Fr. Edwin Corros, CS, executive secretary
continue sending material things also of the Episcopal Commission for the Pastoral
as a means of connecting with them Care of Migrants and Itinerant People
and making up for their absence in (ECMI) of the Catholic Bishops Conference
their life. of the Philippines (CBCP) visited the Filipino
The migrants had always thought that chaplaincy last November 14-18, 2009 as part
they were a lot luckier for having left the of implementing its mandate concerning the
country and found work overseas and cooperation between sending and receiving
that they could provide well for their churches. For further information about
families’ needs. However, such privilege the Filipino chaplaincy in Portugal, please
is also being abused by their loved contact Fr. Jovito Osalvo, SVD at the
ones. They had become too demanding Misionarios do Verbo Divino at Sao Tomas
that migrant workers complain of their de Aquino, 15, P1600 Lisboa or at his mobile
families’ attitudes. There is a strong 00351-910-614-156 or Email address:
tendency among families to consider V2svd@yahoo.com.)

Creation / B2
duty to find institutional means
of regulating the exploitation
of non-renewable resources,
involving poor countries in
the process, in order to plan
together for the future”.[19]
The ecological crisis shows the
urgency of a solidarity which
embraces time and space. It
is important to acknowledge
that among the causes of the
present ecological crisis is the
historical responsibility of the
industrialized countries. Yet
the less developed countries,
and emerging countries in
particular, are not exempt from
their own responsibilities with
regard to creation, for the duty
of gradually adopting effective
environmental measures and
policies is incumbent upon all.
This would be accomplished
more easily if self-interest played
a lesser role in the granting of aid
and the sharing of knowledge
and cleaner technologies.
9. To be sure, among the basic
problems which the international
community has to address is
that of energy resources and
the development of joint and
sustainable strategies to satisfy the
energy needs of the present and
future generations. This means
that technologically advanced
societies must be prepared to
encourage more sober lifestyles,
while reducing their energy
consumption and improving
its efficiency. At the same time
there is a need to encourage
research into, and utilization
of, forms of energy with lower
impact on the environment and
“a world-wide redistribution
of energy resources, so that
countries lacking those resources
can have access to them”.[20]
The ecological crisis offers an
historic opportunity to develop
a common plan of action aimed
at orienting the model of global
development towards greater
respect for creation and for an
integral human development
inspired by the values proper
to charity in truth. I would
advocate the adoption of a
model of development based
on the centrality of the human
person, on the promotion and
sharing of the common good, on
responsibility, on a realization of
our need for a changed life-style,
and on prudence, the virtue
which tells us what needs to be
done today in view of what might
happen tomorrow.[21]
10.Asustainablecomprehensive
management of the environment
and the resources of the planet
demands that human intelligence
be directed to technological
and scientific research and its
practical applications. The “new
solidarity” for which John Paul
Creation / B7
YouthPinoy / B3
addresses the youth in various issues. There is also
a section devoted for podcasts of interviews with
Church leaders and young Filipinos about their
stance in certain issues concerning the Catholic
faith.
To educate the youth about the Holy Father,
the website devoted a section for Pope Benedict
XVI. It features articles about him, especially those
concerning the youth and videos of his messages
to the young faithful.
To get the pulse of the youth in the latest issues
and trends, poll questions are posted weekly while
reviews of latest movies, music and books from
youth bloggers are also made available as often
as the trend goes.
The website devotes a section where Catholic
issues concerning the youth are explained in
layman’s term. This section aims to be a resource
material where the youth can rely to explain the
dogmas of the Catholic Church.
1.16.10
Although the YouthPinoy website is already up
and running, the group sees the need to recruit
more volunteers and contributors that can supply
contents to the website. This is the very reason for
the website launching slated on January 16 at the
Plaza Mayor of the University of Santo Tomas.
Aside from encouraging viewership of the
website, the group will conduct the launch to
recruit young Catholics who are willing to share
their talents in writing, music, photography, film,
and art to reach out to their “unchurched” and
non-practicing peers through cyber space.
The group believes that the grassroots is the
breeding grounds for talented youth that produces
spiritual blogs, praise songs, and Bible reflections
that can revitalize the dormant Christian in others.
Until now, the group is soliciting inspirational
stories and testimonials, values-forming illustration
and artworks, original praise songs and music, plus
religious and social awareness video documentaries
for publication at the website.
Interested contributors are enjoined to sign up
for an account at the YouthPinoy website and start
contributing multimedia contents for the portal.
Youth organizations are also invited to submit their
profile, logo, and contact details that can be publish
at the YouthPinoy member-organizations’ page for
linkages. Contributed articles with accompanying
photos are to be submitted to contributions@
youthpinoy.com.
 Statements
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 1
January 4 - 17, 2010
B5

New Year’s Message

Dear People of God,
“Happy New Year!” This
greeting may not just remain
a simple wish; its realization is
within reach. Now, more than
ever, we hold the promise of
a happier Philippines, despite
the tragedies that happened in
the preceding year.
Institutions need change. No less than
the late Holy Father, Pope John XXIII of
holy memory, said when he convoked
the Second Vatican Council: “Ecclesia
semper reformanda est”. (The Church
must always be in the process of reform).
2010 in our political life is an election
year; people through the exercise of their
right of suffrage will effect a power shift
in the executive and legislative branches
of our civil government. We must retain
what is good, promote what still needs
improvement and discard what is base
and corrupt. However, admittedly and
sadly, a number of us have remained
myopic by focusing our attention only to
the satisfaction of the moment, swayed
by the glitter of money and promises of
patronage, and do not raise our eyes
beyond election time to the resultant
situation created by our indiscretion.
Those who have allowed, much worse
abetted, corruption to thrive in our midst,
do not have the right to complain.
If we were a part of the problem
yesterday, we can also be a part of the
solution today. We hold the key to a
better tomorrow. We need an informed
electorate enlightened through voters’
education, a vigilant citizenry who will
guard against the attempts of some
to frustrate the genuine will of the
people, and steadfast persons who stay
undaunted by intimidation of ruthless
politicians, in order to put into office
reliable leaders who would guide our
nation in the coming years.
The poor constitute the greater part of
our population. They are remembered
and courted by politicians during the
campaign period. “Poverty alleviation”,
“more jobs” and “upliftment of the
masses” are some familiar refrains
chanted by candidates and issues
incorporated into their attractive
platforms. If only there is political will,
the economic situation of our people
would be far better now that it was
generations back.
Social transformation starts within
ourselves. Election is an opportunity we
cannot afford to miss. Over and above
the factors beyond our capacity, with our
great faith in God and in ourselves, we
can still make our wish for a happy new
year a reality. God bless us all.
+NEREO P. ODCHIMAR, DD
Bishop of Tandag
CBCP President

Fairness in a Fragile World—Climate Change

A Declaration of Convergence and Unity
WE represent all walks Change Summit in Copenhagen On their behalf, we appeal for the resolute implementation and desist from acting as green jobs through more and
of life and communities on December 7-18, 2009. to the Philippine government by all the countries for the needed a department for natural greener industries.
For our beloved country and for justice – legal, social and mitigation and adaptation resources extraction. Instead, We see the recent crises
in the coastal, low people, our emotion deepens humanitarian. measures to prepare and protect we seek a moratorium on and debilitation as clear and
and highland areas. from worry into trepidation. We are appalled that the the human race against climate open-pit mining operations, urgent signals for mobilization
We come together Our socio-economic problems existing development model change. attainment of the requirement to plan and undertake a multi-
this November 19, are deeply rooted in an unjust engendered a system of We support the call for of reforestation, watershed dimensional reform program
and ecologically unsustainable unsustainable consumption climate justice, such that the management, community involving the environment,
after reeling from the development model anchored backed up by unsustainable fiscal rich developed countries which ecology, livelihood and jobs asset reform and economy.
multiple crises that on wanton objectivism and debts, irresponsible extraction contribute most to global carbon preservation—as mandates to To finance the program, we
have been aggravated irreversible exploitation. of natural resources, and the emissions and the consequential be resolved positively. call on government to declare
by the destructive The model contorted wealth amoral reliance on the inward alterations of the global We call for: (a) watershed- a moratorium on foreign debt
creation through environmental remittances of a third of our climatic patterns undertake based planning and servicing (now standing at
climate risks. degradation and desolation, labor force scouring outside of deep measurable cuts in their development, to consider the US$53 billion (equivalent to
notably the following: the country and away from their carbon emissions and contribute practical use of less expensive double the proposed national
We believe in the
“...massive deforestation of families even now. We view towards a global fund for climate systems like serial Sabo dams; budget for 2010). We advocate
indivisibility of human
the archipelago, disembowelling with grievous helplessness the change mitigation. We move (b) proactive and anticipatory for the use of a third of the
survival and human
of the land through destructive policy framework that directly that the issue be discussed approaches to climate change debt-servicing portion be
development, reject the
mining, harvesting of protective caused deindustrialization and during the Copenhagen Climate and disaster management using reallocated to this rebuilding
thesis of “survival of the
mangroves and coral reefs, financialization of agriculture, Change Summit. adaptation and mitigation program. The government
fittest” as socio-economic
poisoning of air, river, land and aquaculture and fishing. Jobs In the Philippine context, the measures; (c) agricultural should pursue negotiations
underpinning, and advocate
water systems using chemical in millions and more were program for environmental production systems reform from for the swapping of this
for the propitious partiality
toxins, vehicular smoke spews, lost. We are disturbed that our renewal must be holistic, preparation to post-harvest, atrocious debt in exchange for
towards the weaker and
industrial effluents, conversion of consumption driven economy is coherent and socially inclusive. and a shift to biodiverse, climate change adaptation.
marginalized members of our
watershed areas, hillsides, beach based on imported products. Given that any economy is a integrated and organic farming; Let this environmental-
people and society.
fronts, parks and even irrigated We demand for the derivative of its environment, (d) promotion of sustainable economic renewal program
We do not accept the
aimed at rebuilding our
conjecture that the
country and the different
catastrophic effects of climate
urban/rural communities
change are inevitable.
be inclusively a people-
Nonetheless, we believe
based undertaking. Let
it is an issue of cooperative
this be a collaborative and
survival. We thus close
unified program of the
ranks to commit ourselves
nation, involving popular
unequivocally to the crucial
consultation and people
task of rebuilding our nation
participation in the process,
and communities through
community by community
multi-dimensional reforms.
and at all levels. Let there be
To address the perils of
social partnership between
climate change objectively,
and among government (at
the primary link to asset
all levels), working people,
reform must be established on
Church, business community,
solid ground. The coverage
indigenous people and other
would include: (a) peace and
sectors of society.
security, (b) adequate access
We were made stewards
to essential services such as
of the Earth. Yet, we are
education, health care and
squandering it away – to
basic amenities, (c) gainful
the extent that our own
employment or livelihood
survival is now challenged. As
within the country, and (d)
signatories to this important
human development at the
document, we therefore
community, familial and
plead for unity through
personal levels from the short
sharing and nurturing with
to long-term periods. All
equity, productivity and
these aggregated constitute
sustainability. Our programs
holistic social justice and
and activities cover all levels
the systemic enabler for the
– from frameworks and
people to reasonably and
policies to development
vigorously address climate
Photo courtesy of Rodne Galicha

of communities, families
change directly today and
and individuals as coherent
for future generations.
members of the global people.
We observe that the
We subscribe to universal and
present meteorological shifts
collective actions between
started as a slow process of
nations and peoples that
environmental degradation
would preserve and bring
one millennium ago, which
veritable progress to the
has started to spiral rapidly
Filipino people.
towards a tipping point at
lands into exclusive leisure breaking of this vicious cycle the two are in fact stranded in or ecological consumption, To this cause we congregate
the onset of the prior century.
resorts, golf course, housing, of unsustainable production, normal or crisis period. The e.g., brown rice, high-fiber as a singular network to be
We express serious concern
real estate and infrastructural unemployment, mass poverty program should therefore seek diet, less meat and preference known as the Climate Change
for climatic phenomena, such
projects for the moneyed elite and environmental degradation. to reverse the said onerous for on-season locally-grown Congress of the Philippines
as tsunami, extreme floods,
and foreign investors.” We call on both the government developmental policies. We food; (e) Information and (CCCP). We declare
landslides, earthquakes,
The above-cited destruction of and civil society to work together further call for a particular communication technologies, unwavering commitment to
hurricanes, poisoning of land
the Philippine environment was towards a virtuous ascent of emphasis on the multiple crises e.g., GIS, GPS and remote pursue the above reforms
and sea, rapid depletion of
undertaken for the benefit of the environmental stewardship in farming, jobs, livelihoods, sensing to monitor climate through all possible means
natural and biotic resources,
few under the careful protection and replenishment, shift to energy and the economy. changes and the widest and the God-given strength
melting of polar ice caps,
of the governing agencies. With sustainable agro-industries, We positively support any and public dissemination of their bestowed on us, individually
depletion of ozone layer,
the inceptive climate change and mobilize people for all efforts towards rebuilding likely impact on farming and and collectively. We unite to
among others. And we
impacts, the ultimate and most reconstruction and systemic our communities, our schools, livelihood; and (f) promotion of concretize “fairness in our
are much more seriously
vulnerable victims are the renewal. our farms, our roads, our jobs, the values of green living, green fragile world”.
concerned that most of these
poor without the means to We submit to our people and and our small and medium- industry and green economy. In God’s name, we are
phenomena are caused by
parry climatic blows. From the government our asset reform size businesses in the disaster- We support the twin struggles connected!
human recklessness and
low-lying areas of Laguna and and climate change-adaptive affected areas. of the poor and the excluded for Mabuhay ang Pilipino!
greed.
Pangasinan to the mountains of agenda—agrarian, housing, We must bring back the forest, economic and environmental Mabuhay ang Kalikasan!
We therefore convey our
the Cordilleras and Sierra Madre aquatic, ancestral domain and we must plant trees. We call renewal, in particular – farmers Ipaglaban ang Katarungang
anxiety and fear on the ability
to even coastal Visayas and support, urban community on all local government units, for agrarian reform and Panlipunan!
of our beloved mother earth
Mindanao, Typhoons Ondoy, renewal, rebuilding of rural including those in urban centers, sustainable agriculture; urban
to carry our children into the
Pepeng and Santi collaborated and coastal communities, and to place reforestation on the poor for housing reform, anti- Signatories: Farmers,
next century. It is in this light
to manifest their destructive human resource development very top of their development demolition and river and urban Indigenous Peoples, Urban
that we join in the call of the
might and force. More than a canopy—to be addressed based agenda. In addition, all segments renewal; fisherfolks for fishery Poor, Fisherfolk, Labor,
United Nations for a legally
thousand perished, a million on a priority program to be of society should be actively and blue or aquatic reform; Business, Religious, Academe
binding climate treaty among
hectares of agricultural lands discussed with the concerned involved in tree planting and indigenous peoples for ancestral and Scientists, Legislator,
rich and developing nations
inundated, and millions are now sectors and groupings. forest cover. domain and a ban on illegal Advocates, Organizations
on significant reduction of
facing an uncertain future due to We subscribe to the call of the We call on the Department logging and large-scale mining (Names of signatories have
carbon emissions. This will be
lost homes, personal belongings, United Nations Environmental of Environment and Natural in their ancestral domain; and been omitted due to space
addressed during the Climate
livelihoods and lives. Program and its global partners Resources (DENR) to cease the workers for decent and limitations. Eds.)
 Ref lections
CBCP Monitor
B6 Vol. 14 No. 1
January 4 - 17, 2010

Shout it out: Jesus has given us His Blood

Second Sunday in Ordinary Time (Jn 2:1-11); January 17, 2010
By Fr. Joseph Pellegrino
TODAY’S gospel contains a
dialogue between Jesus and his
mother Mary. The dialogue is
not just thrown in to keep the
story interesting. It is essential
to an understanding on Jesus’
mission on earth as well as to
the understanding of how we
must live our Christian lives.
First of all, the setting: It’s a wedding
feast at Cana in Galilee. In the Gospel
of John, where the wedding feast is
found, this is the first public appearance
of Jesus with his disciples. At this
point in the Gospel of John Jesus had
not performed any miracles. When
Mary tells Jesus that there is no wine,
Jesus appears to snap at her by saying,
“How does this concern of yours affect
me? My hour has not yet come.” Then
Mary seems to ignore this by telling the
waiters to do whatever He says.
The dialogue was not about wine. It
was about setting into motion the events
which would lead to Jesus’ crucifixion,
death and resurrection. Once the people
www.campus.udayton.edu
it is now time to put His mission into
motion. Jesus transforms the water into
wine, by doing so he will soon transform
wine into His blood.
The reading is about the gift of the
Body and Blood of the Lord on the cross
and in the Eucharist.
“For Zion’s sake, I will not be silent.
For Jerusalem’s sake, I will not be quiet.”
That comes from the first reading for
this Sunday from Isaiah 62. When
something wonderful happens, people
talk about it, loudly. Or, at least they
should. Consider the world of sports. In
case you are living in a cave somewhere
and haven’t heard: the Yankees won the
World Series last fall. Sorry, all you Red
Sox and Phillie fans, but they’re back.
Now, most Yankee fans, including me,
have been really vocal about the team,
and to the victors belong the spoils, at
least on the sports field. But, there is
something I want to point out. We are
very loud about some things which
in the long run do not affect the vast
majority of us, such as sports, but are
quiet about the one event the really
matters and that has an infinite effect on
each of us: the Christ event. We need
to be proclaiming Jesus Christ with our
lives as well as our words.
Think of this. We have received the
that Jesus is here in His Body and
Blood. Instead, we are silent when it
comes to the Eucharist. Perhaps, in
our efforts to find common ground
with our Protestant brothers and
sisters, we barely mention what the
Eucharist means to Catholics. Even
among ourselves, we speak at length
about every aspect of Christianity, but
tend to gloss over that which makes us
distinctly Catholic, the Body and Blood
of the Lord.
A number of years ago a man met with
me who was coming into the faith. He
said, “Father, maybe I am not becoming
Catholic for the right reasons. I, really,
really believe in the Presence of the Lord
in the Blessed Sacrament and I really
want to receive communion.” I told
him that I could not think of a better
reason for him to become Catholic. The
fact is that the main reason why adults
join our faith is to be admitted to the
Eucharist.
What is it that these adults realize
that we “cradle Catholics” have taken
for granted? Perhaps, they sense the
Sacramental Presence of the Lord in our
Churches, in our tabernacles. Perhaps,
they see us in prayer at communion
time or before the Blessed Sacrament
in Eucharistic Adoration and realize

saw Jesus’ glory, as the reading for
today concludes, they would proclaim
Him as Messiah, making His hour,
His death, inevitable. Mary does not
respond to Jesus’ question because she
herself knows who He is and knows that
greatest Christmas present there could
possibly be. We have received the
Lord. The gift is not a one-time event.
He keeps giving Himself to us in the
Eucharist.
We need to be shouting to the world
that there is more to Catholicism
than the fellowship of the Christian
community. Perhaps they sense that
at communion time each Catholic has
an individual meeting with the Lord
Shout / B7

Fr. Francis Ongkingco

WHATEVER
Bishop Pat Alo

Vanity: Plus or minus ten
“FATHER,” the young lady brushed some
strands of unruly hair from her face before
continuing. “I’ve been reading the Gospels
lately and I was struck with the passage
about the rich young fellow who left our
Lord because he couldn’t sell everything
he had.”
“Why did that strike you?” the priest
asked.
“Because I’m vain,” she replied.
“I don’t quite see the connection,” the
priest politely said. “Besides, everyone has to
contend with a bit of vanity,” he smiled.
“Well, I am particularly hyper-vain,” she
insisted.
“But what exactly do you mean by being
vain?”
“Don’t you think I’m vain because I spend
anywhere between 30 to 40 minutes fixing
myself before the mirror every morning?
Oh, during weekends it’s usually about an
hour.”
“That’s something I’m not getting into,”
the priest cautiously answered.
“Why not?” she asked.
“Every person ought to be able to gauge in
his conscience how much time is sufficient
or not to be presentable,” he realized too late
that he had used the wrong word.
“Presentable?” her face revealed some
irritation as wrinkles formed in her brow.
“Father, I for one would want to be beautiful,
and not only presentable.”
“So what do you propose?” the priest
asked.
“I wish I had a talking mirror…,” she
pondered.
“You mean like the one the wicked witch
owned in the story of Snow White?” he
smiled.
“No! No! No! But one that could simply
say, ENOUGH! You’re beautiful beyond
description!”
Bo Sanchez
SOULFOOD
“Wow! That would be great,” the priest
said. “Imagine, how much money we could
make on people’s vanity?”
“Father, you’re not answering my
question,” she protested.
“Oh, I’m sorry, but it’s one thing to be
vain and another beautiful,” the priest
remarked.
The woman became pensive and after
hearing this said, “So you’re saying that I’m
not vain, Father?”
“I didn’t say you are or that you aren’t. All
I have said so far is that there is a distinction
between being vain and beautiful,” he
clarified.
“What would that be?”
“In very simple words, being vain would
be rooted in an interior disposition. It is
one’s desire to project or hide what he or
she isn’t. This would be skin-deep beauty.
Thus, one tends to either put on too much
only to catch other people’s attention for
attention’ sake. The opposite would be only
to distract others to one physical trait that is
considered an attractive asset, and thus the
person sometimes ends up revealing himself
physically to the point of immodesty,” he
explained.
“Then what would be beautiful?” she
asked.
“I recall reading some witty passages of
Pope John Paul I in his work Illustrissimi,
dealing with beauty and modesty. He
skillfully illustrates it in the person of
Maria Theresa of Austria (1717-1780), who
happens to be the mother of the ill-fated
Marie Antoinette.”
“The one famous for saying, give them
cakes?” the lady added.
“Yes, but perhaps we will understand a
little more why she only had cakes in her
head,” the priest laughed. “Well, when
her mother saw a portrait of her daughter
wearing an enormous headdress made of
fruit, flowers and feathers and some ten
meters of fabric, she wrote to her saying,
‘I do not feel that a great sovereign should
dress like that. Fashion should be followed,
but not exaggerated. A lovely Queen needs
no such nonsense on her head.’”
“But Father, I’m not like Marie Antoinette,”
she retorted.
“True, but we all have something of her
vain nonsense in us: desiring to be the center
of everything and forgetting that God ought
to be our center. John Paul I wisely continues,
saying: ‘A woman needs very little in order to
please others. All you need to know is which
people you want to please, and what your
object is in doing so. Do you want to please
everyone? This is not bad in itself, but it may
be bad to want to please in that particular
way. I think a woman should try to please
her parents, her brothers and sisters, and
above all, her husband, the man who will
choose her as a wife and will be the father
of her children. Now, all these people want
a woman to be smart and attractive, but in
a context of modesty that makes her even
more attractive, as well as morally delightful.’
(Illustrissimi, p. 37)”
“Then what do you suggest I do, Father?”
she asked.
“You said that you spent forty minutes in
front of the mirror?” the priest asked.
“Yes, Father,” her voice trembled a little
waiting for what he was about to say.
“Well, why don’t you try spending ten
minutes less in front of the mirror on some
days?” he smiled.
“And…?” she was a bit confused.
“At least on that day, you can pray, ‘Thank
you Lord, today, I’m ten minutes less vain!
I’m sure God will make up for the ten minutes
you offered up by adding something beautiful
in your soul.”
ENCOUNTERS
Guarantee
of truth
CHRIST’S promise to St. Peter was a guarantee of
the truth. Now this is important because the devil
being “a murderer and the father of lies” (Jn. 8:44)
keeps on campaigning to bring as many as he could
to eternal fire and perdition in Hell. That promise
written in Mt. 16:18 runs like this: “You are Peter
and on this rock I will build my Church. And the
gates of the underworld can never hold out against
it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven:
Whatever you bind on earth shall be considered
bound in heaven; whatever you loose on earth shall
be considered loosed in heaven” (Mt. 16:18-19).
The original name of Peter was Simon, then was
changed by Jesus to Peter, which means “rock”
since as the first Pope he was to lead the Church. Till
the present there have been already more than 250
popes. You can even read in the Guinness book of
records, year 2001 that the Roman Catholic Church
is the biggest religious denomination united under
one head, the Pope, presently Pope Benedict XVI.
It has continued throughout the centuries, inspite
of enemies from within and without. The amazing
thing is that none of its members are Catholics by
force but are members of the Catholic fold in their
free search and quest for truth. You can check for
yourself, down through history and amid so many
trials and difficulties, how the Lord has supported
His Church by so many attestations of miraculous
events and cures that serve to prove the truth of its
existence as God’s Church.
This fact is narrated in the Bible when the Lord
shows His approval by accompanying His closest
servants with extraordinary signs from heaven.
“These signs will accompany those who believe: in
my name they will drive out demons, they will speak
new languages. They will pick up serpents (with
their hands), and if they drink any deadly thing,

Make 2010 your financial

it will not harm them. They will lay hands on the
sick, and they will recover. So then the Lord Jesus,
after he spoke to them, was taken up into heaven

breakthrough year!
I’M a successful writer.
My mother says so, and
I’ve learned (the hard way)
that you can’t argue with my
mother. Or you experience grave
consequences.
What are the most important
skills of my success as a writer?
Two essential skills:
1. My Writing Skills
2. My Relationship Skills
If I only had Writing Skills
but no Relationship Skills, my
success would be isolated to
writing. Or it would be a short-
lived success.
I didn’t ask a publisher to
publish my books, but even if I
did—I still would have needed
relationship skills. Why? A big
publisher receives thousands
of manuscripts from would-be
authors every year. How will
they pick 50 books to publish
from that mountain of books?
Answer: Relationship.
Unless of course you’ve
got exceptional writing skills.
Perhaps the publisher will notice
the needle in the haystack. But if
all the manuscripts look the same,
the publisher will do business
with someone he knows. That’s
the rule of sales: The customer
will buy from a friend rather than
from a stranger.
How do you move from
“stranger status” to “friend
status”?
Remember that as a writer,
you’re not just a writer.
You’re also a salesman.
Everyone is. And salesmen
don’t sell stuff. They sell
themselves first.
As a writer, I took the more
and took his seat at the right hand of God. But they
went forth and preached everywhere, while the Lord
worked with them and confirmed the word through
accompanying signs’ (Mk. 16:17-20).
difficult route of building a has changed. Our main purpose in the search for the guarantee
publishing company. Through the internet, of truth is for the sake of reaching our final and true
And making that company you don’t need a publisher goal: heaven. Our enemy, the devil, and his agents
publish my books. anymore.
That meant working with an You can be a one-man (humans and co-devils) continue their campaign
enormous number of people. publisher. You can write a blog, of lies with the purpose of bringing as many to
We had to hire staff (50+ now), make it popular, and build a the eternal fires and punishment of hell. Since
set-up distribution channels, buy relationship with your audience. our main objective is always to reach our goal of
vehicles, etc. Being a non-profit You can give away your first happiness with God, let’s do what we can to avoid
organization, we don’t have Ebook for free. If it’s any good,
much profit to show. We do it will spread virally. People
the deceptive lies of the devil and help one another,
sell P75M worth of books and will get to know you, email by God’s grace and mercy to reach our true goal:
magazines each year, but with you, flag you, ping you, forward heaven with the Triune God, Father, Son and the
almost zero net profits because you, etcetera. And when you Holy Spirit, together with our Blessed Mother the
we give it all away. Our real profit feel that your relationship with Virgin Mary and all the angels and saints. Those to
is the changed lives of our readers. your readers is strong, you can
be admitted to the kingdom of heaven according to
Again—it was relationship skills start selling them an Ebook or
that made it all work. Great a printed book. (How? Print it the book of Revelation 21:29 “Nothing unclean may
relationships with staff. Great yourself or work with print-on- come into it: no one who does what is loathsome or
relationships with suppliers. demand publishers). false, but only those who are listed in the Lamb’s
And great relationships with Did you notice? It’s relationship book of life” (Rev. 21:29).
customers. skills again—even if it’s all
But for writers today, the world digital.
 Social Concerns
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 1
January 4 - 17, 2010
B7

The day I rescued Josh

By Fr. Shay Cullen skin disease. I was informed that one officer
was transferred after sexually abusing a female
teenage detainee. The few girl detainees have no
THE great challenge for child care workers secure room and wander the open spaces in the
worldwide is to get the UN Convention on the corridors and some have been sexually molested
rights of the Child respected and implemented by the male detainees in the toilets. They should
especially by law enforcement and jail management be removed from that facility.
officers. It is the 20th anniversary of the convention The guards and female warden gamely poised
that is now the basis of all child protection law for a photograph and when they realized I was
for all nations, many ignore it in practice. Twenty taking video the lady warden got angry and
years ago dedicated people were determined to confronted my female staff and detained us and
enshrine the rights of the child in a United Nations called senior officers. When eventually we were
Convention that would guide all nations. I was released and left with Josh, he told us how he was
a delegate in Helsinki during the conference to beaten up by one of the guards. A report will be
finalize the NGO draft proposal of the Convention. filed with the Commission on Human Rights.
A year later it was passed and soon the Philippines There is an urgent need for the implementation
had a new child protection law based on it and of a more intelligent and educated non-punitive
that is a great help in my apostolic work visiting approach to assisting children in conflict with the
jails and brothels and rescuing abused children law. Giving them respect, counseling, help and
and bringing their abusers to justice. skilled training while their court case is pending
I visited the Philippine youth detention center is the way to restore their self-esteem, dignity and
(cradle) at Bicutan under the Bureau of Jail turn them from going down the path of crime.
Management recently. I had a court order to take Josh was held in that prison for one year having
custody of a minor and bring him to the Preda been accused of stealing an item worth UD$27 or
New Dawn recovery and education center. I about twenty Euro.
asked if they had a copy of the Convention of Saving abused children is another important
the Rights of the Child and they seemed not to way to implement the convention. One day I was
have heard of it. mistaken for a tourist while I was walking along
Sad to say I found the need of much the street in Olongapo City in the Philippines.
improvement. The jail is small with overcrowded It was then a big town that lived off the nearby
cells, the youth detainees are held behind bars US Naval base on Subic Bay and sex bars were
without much recreation, sports or sunlight. everywhere, pimps touted young women openly
During my visit it was only at lunch time they on the street. One pimp came up to me and to my
were allowed out of the cells to eat a light meal horror offered me two small children about 12
with a single piece of chicken (or pork) the size year-old. He told me I could do anything I liked
of golf ball, a cup of rice and a small banana. The to them. He laughed when I said I was going to
officers on duty were watching television instead call the police, and he was gone before I could

www.needmagazine.com
of caring for the needs of the inmates. None of do anything to get help to save the children. The
the youth had been convicted of a crime; they child sex industry is condoned and tolerated to
were awaiting the stuck up wheels of justice to this day and that must change. I was determined
start turning. from then on to change the terrible situation of
The rescued youth, (call him Josh, not his real enslaved children in the power of sex abusers. We
name), had serious case of scabies, an infectious must never condone cover-up or tolerate abuse.

Creation / B4

II called in his Message for the
1990 World Day of Peace [22]
and the “global solidarity” for
which I myself appealed in my
Message for the 2009 World
Day of Peace [23] are essential
attitudes in shaping our efforts to
protect creation through a better
internationally-coordinated
management of the earth’s
resources, particularly today,
when there is an increasingly
clear link between combating
environmental degradation and
promoting an integral human
development. These two realities
are inseparable, since “the integral
environmental degradation on
the horizon; the real motivation
must be the quest for authentic
world-wide solidarity inspired
by the values of charity, justice
and the common good. For that
matter, as I have stated elsewhere,
“technology is never merely
technology. It reveals man and his
aspirations towards development;
it expresses the inner tension that
impels him gradually to overcome
material limitations. Technology
in this sense is a response to
God’s command to till and keep
the land (cf. Gen 2:15) that he
has entrusted to humanity, and
ever more deeply anchored in
respect for “human ecology”. The
media also have a responsibility
in this regard to offer positive
and inspiring models. In a word,
concern for the environment
calls for a broad global vision
of the world; a responsible
common effort to move beyond
approaches based on selfish
nationalistic interests towards
a vision constantly open to
the needs of all peoples. We
cannot remain indifferent to
what is happening around us,
for the deterioration of any
one part of the planet affects
efforts to promote a greater sense
of ecological responsibility which,
as I indicated in my Encyclical
Caritas in Veritate, would
safeguard an authentic “human
ecology” and thus forcefully
reaffirm the inviolability of
human life at every stage and in
every condition, the dignity of the
person and the unique mission of
the family, where one is trained
in love of neighbor and respect
for nature.[29] There is a need to
safeguard the human patrimony
of society. This patrimony of
values originates in and is part of
the natural moral law, which is
over creation, a role which man NOTES:
must certainly not abuse, but also [1] Catechism of the Catholic Church,
one which he may not abdicate. 198.
In the same way, the opposite [2] Benedict XVI, Message for the 2008
position, which would absolutize World Day of Peace, 7.
technology and human power, [3] Cf. No.48.
results in a grave assault not only
on nature, but also on human [4] Dante Alighieri, The Divine Comedy,
Paradiso, XXXIII, 145.
dignity itself.[30]
14. If you want to cultivate [5] Message for the 1990 World Day of
Peace, 1.
peace, protect creation. The quest
for peace by people of good will [6] Apostolic Letter Octogesima Adve-
niens, 21.
surely would become easier if
all acknowledge the indivisible [7] Message for the 1990 World Day of
relationship between God, human Peace, 10.
beings and the whole of creation. [8] Cf. Benedict XVI, Encyclical Letter
In the light of divine Revelation Caritas in Veritate, 32.

development of individuals
necessarily entails a joint effort
for the development of humanity
as a whole”.[24] At present
there are a number of scientific
developments and innovative
approaches which promise to
provide satisfactory and balanced
solutions to the problem of our
relationship to the environment.
Encouragement needs to be
given, for example, to research
into effective ways of exploiting
the immense potential of solar
energy. Similar attention also
needs to be paid to the world-
wide problem of water and to the
global water cycle system, which
is of prime importance for life on
earth and whose stability could be
seriously jeopardized by climate
change. Suitable strategies for
rural development centered on
small farmers and their families
should be explored, as well as the
implementation of appropriate
policies for the management of
forests, for waste disposal and
for strengthening the linkage
between combating climate
change and overcoming poverty.
Ambitious national policies are
required, together with a necessary
international commitment which
will offer important benefits
especially in the medium and
it must serve to reinforce the
covenant between human beings
and the environment, a covenant
that should mirror God’s creative
love”.[25]
11. It is becoming more and
more evident that the issue of
environmental degradation
challenges us to examine our life-
style and the prevailing models
of consumption and production,
which are often unsustainable
from a social, environmental
and even economic point of
view. We can no longer do
without a real change of outlook
which will result in new life-
styles, “in which the quest for
truth, beauty, goodness and
communion with others for the
sake of common growth are
the factors which determine
consumer choices, savings and
investments”.[26] Education for
peace must increasingly begin
with far-reaching decisions on
the part of individuals, families,
communities and states. We are
all responsible for the protection
and care of the environment.
This responsibility knows no
boundaries. In accordance with
the principle of subsidiarity it
is important for everyone to be
committed at his or her proper
level, working to overcome
us all. Relationships between
individuals, social groups and
states, like those between human
beings and the environment,
must be marked by respect and
“charity in truth”. In this broader
context one can only encourage
the efforts of the international
community to ensure progressive
disarmament and a world free of
nuclear weapons, whose presence
alone threatens the life of the
planet and the ongoing integral
development of the present
generation and of generations
yet to come.
12. The Church has a
responsibility towards creation,
and she considers it her duty to
exercise that responsibility in
public life, in order to protect
earth, water and air as gifts
of God the Creator meant for
everyone, and above all to save
mankind from the danger of self-
destruction. The degradation of
nature is closely linked to the
cultural models shaping human
coexistence: consequently, “when
‘human ecology’ is respected
within society, environmental
ecology also benefits”.[27] Young
people cannot be asked to respect
the environment if they are not
helped, within families and
society as a whole, to respect
the foundation of respect for the
human person and creation.
13. Nor must we forget the very
significant fact that many people
experience peace and tranquility,
renewal and reinvigoration,
when they come into close
contact with the beauty and
harmony of nature. There exists
a certain reciprocity: as we care
for creation, we realize that
God, through creation, cares
for us. On the other hand, a
correct understanding of the
relationship between man and
the environment will not end
by absolutizing nature or by
considering it more important
than the human person. If the
Church’s magisterium expresses
grave misgivings about notions
of the environment inspired by
ecocentrism and biocentrism, it
is because such notions eliminate
the difference of identity and
worth between the human
person and other living things.
In the name of a supposedly
egalitarian vision of the “dignity”
of all living creatures, such
notions end up abolishing the
distinctiveness and superior
role of human beings. They also
open the way to a new pantheism
tinged with neo-paganism,
which would see the source of
and in fidelity to the Church’s
Tradition, Christians have their
own contribution to make. They
contemplate the cosmos and its
marvels in light of the creative
work of the Father and the
redemptive work of Christ, who
by his death and resurrection has
reconciled with God “all things,
whether on earth or in heaven”
(Col 1:20). Christ, crucified and
risen, has bestowed his Spirit
of holiness upon mankind, to
guide the course of history in
anticipation of that day when,
with the glorious return of the
Saviour, there will be “new
heavens and a new earth” (2 Pet
3:13), in which justice and peace
will dwell forever. Protecting the
natural environment in order to
build a world of peace is thus a
duty incumbent upon each and
all. It is an urgent challenge, one
to be faced with renewed and
concerted commitment; it is also a
providential opportunity to hand
down to coming generations the
prospect of a better future for
all. May this be clear to world
leaders and to those at every
level who are concerned for the
future of humanity: the protection
of creation and peacemaking
are profoundly linked! For this
reason, I invite all believers to
[9] Catechism of the Catholic Church,
295.
[10] Heraclitus of Ephesus (c. 535 – c. 475
B.C.), Fragment 22B124, in H. Diels-W.
Kranz, Die Fragmente der Vorsokratiker,
Weidmann, Berlin,1952, 6th ed.
[11] Cf. Benedict XVI,Encyclical Letter
Caritas in Veritate, 48.
[12] John Paul II, Encyclical Letter Cen-
tesimus Annus, 37.
[13] Cf. Benedict XVI, Encyclical Letter
Caritas in Veritate, 50.
[14] Pastoral Constitution Gaudium et
Spes, 69.
[15] Cf. John Paul II, Encyclical Letter
Sollicitudo Rei Socialis, 34.
[16] Benedict XVI, Encyclical Letter
Caritas in Veritate, 37.
[17] Pontifical Council for Justice and
Peace, Compendium of the Social Doctrine
of the Church, 467; cf. Paul VI, Encyclical
Letter Populorum Progressio, 17.
[18] Cf. John Paul II, Encyclical Letter
Centesimus Annus, 30-31, 43
[19] Benedict XVI, Encyclical Letter
Caritas in Veritate, 49.
[20] Ibid.
[21] Cf. Saint Thomas Aquinas, S. Th.,
II-II, q. 49, 5.
[22] Cf. No. 9.
[23] Cf. No. 8.
[24] Paul VI, Encyclical Letter Populorum
Progressio, 43.
[25] Encyclical Letter Caritas in Veri-
tate, 69.

long term. There is a need, in
effect, to move beyond a purely
consumerist mentality in order to
promote forms of agricultural and
industrial production capable of
respecting creation and satisfying
the primary needs of all. The
ecological problem must be
dealt with not only because
of the chilling prospects of
the prevalence of particular
interests. A special role in raising
awareness and information
belongs to the different groups
present in civil society and to the
non-governmental organizations
which work with determination
and generosity for the spread
of ecological responsibility,
responsibility which should be
themselves. The book of nature
is one and indivisible; it includes
not only the environment but
also individual, family and social
ethics.[28] Our duties towards
the environment flow from
our duties towards the person,
considered both individually and
in relation to others.
Hence I readily encourage
man’s salvation in nature alone,
understood in purely naturalistic
terms. The Church, for her part,
is concerned that the question be
approached in a balanced way,
with respect for the “grammar”
which the Creator has inscribed
in his handiwork by giving
man the role of a steward and
administrator with responsibility
raise a fervent prayer to God,
the all-powerful Creator and the
Father of mercies, so that all men
and women may take to heart
the urgent appeal: If you want to
cultivate peace, protect creation.
From the Vatican, 8 December
2009
BENEDICTUS PP. XVI
[26] John Paul II, Encyclical Letter Cen-
tesimus Annus, 36.
[27] Benedict XVI, Encyclical Letter
Caritas in Veritate, 51.
[28] Cf. ibid., 15, 51.
[29] Cf. ibid., 28, 51, 61; John Paul II,
Encyclical Letter Centesimus Annus,
38, 39.
[30] Cf. Benedict XVI, Encyclical Letter
Caritas in Veritate, 70

Shout / B6

within him or her. I will not be quiet.” In Isaiah,

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Sometimes a person might
ask you, “What is it about the
Catholic Church that grips you?
Jerusalem or Zion, was not
just a place, it was the action of
God in the world. The prophet
Is it the services, the music, the shouts because he wants the
pageantry? Is it the fact that world to realize what God is
Mailing Address ______________________________________________ Catholics know where they doing. He wants others to join
______________________________________________________________ stand in areas of dogma, faith, the transformation of the world
and morality? What is it that into the Kingdom of God.
Phone No.: ________ Fax No.: ________ E-mail: __________________ grips you?” What is it that grips We proclaim the Eucharistic
Mode of Payment us? We need to look closely into Presence so that others can
ourselves and respond with the join us in union with Jesus
 Check/PMO enclosed  Cash Payment deep reality of Catholicism: “We at the Last Supper, on the
(Payable to: CBCP Communications Development Foundation Inc.) really believe in the Presence of Cross and at His Resurrection.
the Lord in the Eucharist. We love We proclaim the Eucharistic
receiving Him in communion. Presence so others can join us
_______________________________ This to us, is fundamental to in the Lord’s re-creation of the
our faith life.” When we take world through the gift of His
Signature
our young people on retreat, we Body and Blood.
spend hours planning talks and Water has been changed into
events. But every single time wine. Wine has been changed
if you ask them what was the into blood. Don’t be quiet about
PLEASE SEND TO: highlight of the weekend, the it. Tell the world: God loves us
CBCP Monitor, P.O. Box 3601, Manila, Philippines retreat, the vast majority will say, in ways infinitely beyond our
470 Gen. Luna St., Intramuros, Manila, Philippines | Tel (632) 404-2182 • Telefax (632) 404-1612 “Eucharistic Adoration.” deepest hopes and gives us a
Or e-mail this at cbcpmonitor@cbcpworld.com “For Zion’s sake I will not gift infinitely greater than our
be silent. For Jerusalem’s sake deepest needs.
 B8
Pandora is one of the smaller
planets some 4.3 light years
from Earth. It is a luscious
and unspoiled home to the 10
foot tall blue skinned Na’vi.
The humans of the Earth has
encroached deep into Pandora’s
forest in search for valuable
minerals but are held back by
the planet’s atmosphere which
is deadly to them. Meanwhile,
Jake Sully (Sam Worthington), a
former US Marine now paralyzed
from waist down is selected
to participate in the Avatar
program, wherein genetically-
bred human Na’vi hybrids are
created to adapt to Pandora’s
atmosphere. In exchange for the
ability to move and walk again,
Jake must serve as a scout for the
human soldiers who follow him
in Pandora’s jungles. However,
when Jake learns of the Na’vi
culture and falls in love with
Princess Neytiri (Zoe Saldana),
his loyalty becomes torn between
his obligation as a spy and his
new found love.
AVATAR is a visual feast
MAC en COLET
Buhay Parokya
Entertainment
Moral Assessment
 Abhorrent
 Disturbing
 Acceptable
 Wholesome
 Exemplary
that tells an entertainingly tight
story. Director James Cameron
manages to recreate a world
so charming and dreamy with
its sharp CGIs and brilliant
attention to technical detail.
The story’s development and
screenplay falls a little short as it
tries hard to be relevant. Over-all
the creative lapses are overtaken
by the superb visuals.
At the core of a person is his
loyalty to what is right and what
is good. At some point, a person
might be influenced by power
or authority or persuaded by
debt of gratitude but almost
always, there will be that small
voice whispering to choose love,
unity, peace and brotherhood.
The film illustrates a person’s
hierarchy of needs and desires.
It seems that man wants most
what he has lost or is incapable
of. He thinks he will sell even
his soul just to get back what he
has lost. However, at the end of
the day, what will truly make
one happy and content is not
merely fulfilling those needs and
Ni Bladimer Usi
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 1
January 4 - 17, 2010
Technical Assessment
 Poor
 Below average
 Average
 Above average
 E
xcellent
Title: Avatar
Cast: Sam Worthington, Zoe
Saldana, Stephen Lang,
Michelle Rodriguez
Director: James Cameron
Producers: Cameron, Jon
Landau
Screenwriter: James Cameron
Music: James Homer
Editor: James Cameron, John
Refoua, Stephen E. Rivkin
Genre: Sci-Fi Adventure
Distributor: 20th Century Fox
Running Time: 123 mins
Technical Assessment: 4
Moral Assessment: 2.5
CINEMA Rating: For viewers 14
and above
desires but following what is true
and good as dictated by the soul
and heart.
The movie contains
several intense war-related
violence, some profanity and
crude language. The film is
inappropriate for very young
children. Parents are strongly
advised to guide their children
who would like to watch the
film.
Look for the images of Cherub
Angels, Santa Claus, Mother
and Child. (Illustration by
Bladimer Usi)
M agka - live - in sina Title: I Love You Goodbye
Lizelle (Angelica Panganiban) Cast: Angelica Panganiban,
at Adrian (Gabby Concepcion)
na malaki ang agwat ng edad
at estado. Ang 25 anyos na si
Lizelle ay isang ulilang lubos
Gabby Concepcion, Kim
Chiu, Derek Ramsay,
Matet de Leon, Liza
Lorena, Arlene Muhlach,
Ketchup Eusebio
na nagta-trabaho bilang Director: Laurice Guillen
serbedora sa coffee shop nang Screenplay: Mark Meily
makilala ni Adrian, mahigit Producer/ Distributor: Star
40 anyos at may mataas na Cinema
katungkulan bilang doktor Location: Manila
sa isang malaking ospital. Genre: Drama
Maraming tutol sa kanilang Running Time: 110 mins
relasyon lalo na ang anak ni Technical Assessment:
Adrian na si Ysa (Kim Chiu) na  ½
halos kasing-edad ni Lizelle. Moral Assessment:
Magugulat sina Lizelle at ½
Adrian sa pagpapakilala ng CINEMA Rating: For viewers
bagong manliligaw ni Ysa 18 and above
na si Gary (Derek Ramsay).
Sa simula pa lang ay halata ang pagkadismaya ni Adrian
kay Gary, habang si Lizelle naman ay hindi mapakali.
Malalaman na ito palang si Gary ay dating kasintahan ni
Lizelle na iniwan siya nang walang paalam dalawang taon
na ang nakararaan upang magtrabaho sa barko. Si Adrian
ang siyang sumalo sa kalungkutan ni Lizelle. Ngayon si
Gary ay nagbabalik sa buhay ni Lizelle upang buhayin
ang dati nilang pag-ibig at si Ysa ang kanyang gagamitin
upang makalapit siya dito.
Maayos ang pagkakagawa ng pelikula. Mahusay ang
pagkakadirehe ni Guillen na hindi matatawaran ang galing
sa paghahagod ng tamang emosyon sa bawat eksena.
Maging ang pinaka-simpleng eksena ay nagningning
dahil sa hitik at lalim nang pinaghuhugutang emosyon ng
mga karakter. Hindi naging melodramatiko ang pelikula.
Walang katakot-takot na sampalan, walang gaanong
histerya. Sumunod lamang ito sa natural na daloy ng
mga pangyayari at sa mga nararapat na reaksiyon ng mga
tauhan. Naging mas makapangyarihan ang pelikula sa
mga sandali ng katahimikan nito kung saan madarama ng
manonood ang pinagdadaanang pighati ng mga tauhan.
Pawang mahuhusay lahat ng nagsiganap at bumagay sa
kanila ang kani-kaniyang papel. Lumutang nang husto ang
galing ni Panganiban sa pag-arte sa pelikulang ito. Kuha
niya ang nararapat na komplikasyon ng tauhan na kanyang
ginampanan. May ilan nga lang problema sa editing ang
pelikula dala siguro marahil ng pagmamadali, pero maari
na rin itong palagpasin dahil di naman gaanong nakaapekto
sa kabuuang daloy. Sayang nga lang dahil kung mas
napagtuunan pa ito ng pansin at napaglaanan ng panahon,
magiging mas maayos pa sana ang pelikula.
Tinalakay ng pelikula ang isang sensitibong paksa ng
pakikiapid. Makikita sa pelikula ang hirap na pinagdadaanan
ng isang taong nasa masalimuot na relasyon. Nariyang hindi
siya tanggapin ng mga kaanak at harap-harapang kutyain
dahil hindi siya tunay na kapamilya. Sinundan pa ito ng
mas maraming komplikasyon nang magbalik ang dating
pag-ibig. Nakaugat naman ang lahat sa lalim ng emosyon
at hindi lang sa tawag ng laman kung kaya’t kauna-unawa
ang pinagdaanan ng mga tauhan. Sadyang may mga sandali
na hindi mako-kontrol ng tao ang bugso ng kanyang
damdamin. Hindi rin naman sinasadya ng mga ito ang sila’y
muling magtagpo. Kitang pilit na iniwasan ni Lizelle si Gary
ngunit sadyang tadhana ang nagtutulak sa kanila upang
ituloy ang anumang naputol na pagmamahalan sa kanilang
nakaraan. Sa bandang huli nama’y natuto rin si Lizelle na
mamili at manindigan sa kanyang desisyon at tinahak pa
rin niya sa wakas ang tamang landas na magbibigay sa
kanya ng lubos na kaligayahan at kapayapaan. Yun nga
lang, nakakabahala pa rin na ipinakitang pagtatalik sa
labas ng kasal. Hindi man sinabi ng pelikula na ito’y tama,
hindi pa rin ito magandang halimbawa. Marahil ang mga
eksenang ganito ay kailangan upang ipakita ang lalim ng
relasyon ng mga tauhan. Ngunit ang ganitong dahilan ay
mauunawan lamang ng mga manonood na may hinog na
kaisipan at nasa wastong gulang. Nararapat lamang ang
pelikula sa mga manonood na may edad 18 pataas.
 CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 1
January 4 - 17, 2010
C1

The News Supplement of

Couples for Christ

Answering the Cry of the Poor

By Arnel Santos justice, and work with the poor.”
ANCOP shall not limit itself to community
COUPLES for Christ (CFC) has opened new fron- development. Aside from community develop-
tiers in its mission to Build the Church of the Home ment (GK), ANCOP shall embark, with greater
intensity, on programs in Education, Health
and the Church of the Poor. (GKare), Food Sufficiency (Bayan-Anihan, AN-
Eights months after formally announcing that it was letting go COP FARMS), Livelihood (Tekton/E-Pinoy), En-
of the governance of Gawad Kalinga Community Development vironment, Community Social Benefits Program,
Foundation Inc. (GKCDFI), CFC unveiled its expanded and more and Socially-Oriented Business Models. ANCOP
intensive work with the poor -- ANCOP, which stands for “Answer- shall also put special emphasis on improving
ing the Cry of the Poor.” The launching was held on December 8, the lives of prisoners and their families through
2009, at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall. Isaiah 61:1, CFC’s prison ministry.
Addressing the thousands of CFC leaders from Metro Manila and Joe Tale stressed that in ANCOP, “at the
the provinces who packed the hall, CFC Chairman Joe Tale said that heart of the work is the heart of Christ.” As
“ANCOP shall be the CFC arm leading a global network that builds such, “Christ is the center and the mover of the
the Church of the Poor through defense of life and creation, social work.” ANCOP shall be “moved by the Holy
Spirit.” It shall
be “one with the
Catholic Church”
and must “at-
tract others by
being witness to
and an example
of Christ’s love and service.” The Yamamoto. He noted that the expansive nature of the work, and
CFC Chairman reminded every- circumstances and events that happened in recent months, has led
one that CFC members “are their CFC to turn to the Blessed Mother, who introduced herself in Ban-
brother’s keepers,” thus ANCOP neux as the “Virgin of the Poor.”
shall endeavor to be a convergence Joe Yamamoto emphasized that these circumstances have shown
“where brethren live and experience that God wants “the poor and the lowly to see the face of Jesus” and
the fullness of God’s love.” to do this work through Mary, His Mother.
Joe Tale enjoined all CFC members A highlight of the event was the dedication of CFC’s work with
to answer the cry of the poor “by the poor to the Blessed Mother, as Our Lady of Banneux, led by
sharing Christ’s love as an instrument International Council member Joey Arguelles.
for healing, addressing their relevant CFC-IC member Melo Villaroman, Jr. captured the sentiment of
needs (material, physical and emo- the crowd and distilled the message of the activity when he said
tional) and fulfilling their yearning that as CFC members, as Christians, there is only one way that we
for a better future, through personal can respond to this call, to this task of answering the cry of the poor.
and family transformation that leads He said, “Tayo po ay tinatawag ng Panginoon at ng mga mahihirap.
to a just and caring society and a life Kapatid, ano ang iyong sagot?” (The Lord, and the poor, are calling
of dignity for all.” us. Brothers, what is your response?)
The IC enjoy a light moment after the launch. From left: Manny Garcia, Melo Villaroman, Lito Tayag, Rouquel Ponte, Glen “God is indeed speaking to CFC,” The overflow crowd answered with one voice: “Kapatid, sagot
Santayana (member of the CFC US National Council and in charge of ANCOP USA), Joe Yamamoto, and Joe Tale. said CFC Executive Director Joe kita!” (Brother, I am your keeper.)

“Mary kept all these things in her heart”
By Jun and Jean Uriarte
OVER 270 participants came from CFC com-
munities in Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia,
Philippines, Singapore and Thailand to the CFC
Southeast Asia Regional Conference on the Role
of Mary in Evangelization and Family Renewal
held in Jakarta, Indonesia on 12-13 December 2009
coinciding with the feast of the Virgin of Guada-
lupe. Expecting only 150 participants, the orga-
nizers were amazed at the overflow crowd. After
Indonesia, the Philippines sent the most number
of participants led by CFC Camarines Sur.
The conference commenced with the praying
of the Joyful Mysteries of the Holy Rosary. After
the worship, Gunawan Purwadi, CFC Indonesia
National Director, welcomed the participants.
This was followed by the opening remarks of
Joe Yamamoto, CFC Executive Director, and
the keynote address of Joe Tale, CFC Chairman.
The first talk on the role of Mary in the Church,
a reflection on the verse “Be it done to me ac-
cording to your word” (Lk 1:38), was by Bishop
Mikael Angkur, OFM, Head, Indonesia Family
Commission, but delivered by his representative.
This was followed by sharing
from three participants. Pra-
sert Tungjunyatham of CFC
Thailand made everyone
teary eyed when he related
the role of the Blessed Mother
in his family’s conversion
to Christianity. Their son
was then a student in a Re-
demptorist school where he
learned about the devotion
to the Mother of Perpetual
Help. Later he taught them
how to pray the Hail Mary.
This led to their own interest
in the Blessed Virgin and ul-
timately to catechism lessons
and their baptism.
The second talk on the
role of Mary in family life, a
reflection on the verse “His
mother kept all these things
in her heart” (Lk 2:51), was
given by Mannix Ocampo,
a member of the CFC Board
of Elders, followed again by
three sharers. Everyone was
touched by the sharing of
Michael Bay of CFC Malaysia
who said that he was at first
reluctant to attend the confer-
ence. But at the conference,
it was revealed to him why
God had made it possible for him to be present - he
needed to discover more intimately the meaning
and purpose of his relationship with the Blessed
Mother in order for him to more fully realize and
discover the need to improve his relationship with
his very own mother.
At dusk the participants prayed the Angelus
and the conference prayer, Sub Tuum Praesidium,
the oldest complete prayer to Mary dating back
to 250 AD. After dinner, the conference resumed
with the praying of the Luminous Mysteries of
the Rosary.
The participants brought with them several
Marian images which were beautifully arranged
on flower-decorated tables and pedestals placed on
the stage in front of the conference hall. Archbishop
Ramon Arguelles of Lipa brought two beautiful,
large images of Mary, Mediatrix of All Grace, as
well as smaller images of the Virgin of Caysasay.
The larger image of the Mediatrix of All Grace was
donated to CFC Indonesia while the smaller image
was given as a gift to the Archbishop of Jakarta.
CFC Camarines Sur brought an image of the Virgin
of Peñafrancia.
A highlight of the conference was the Rite of
Enrollment in the Brown Scapular of the Lady of to the Mother of God.
Mt. Carmel – the very first such occasion during a The imposition of the Brown Scapular was
CFC conference – officiated by Archbishop Ramon followed by audio-visual presentations on vari-
Arguelles. According to the archbishop, the history ous Marian sites and devotions in participating
of the Brown Scapular began in 1241 when Baron countries. Singapore and Thailand featured
de Grey of England returned from the Crusades churches in their respective countries named
bringing back with him a group of religious from after the Blessed Mother as well as various Mar-
the holy mountain of Carmel. He gave the monks ian images. Indonesia presented the history of
a manor house in Aylesford where ten years later the devotion to the Lady of Sendang Sono with
the Blessed Virgin appeared to St. Simon Stock photos of activities at the pilgrimage site. CFC
and handed him the Brown Scapular saying: “This Camarines Sur gave an audio-visual presentation
shall be the privilege for you and all Carmelites, on the celebration of the feast day of the Virgin
that anyone dying in this habit shall not suffer of Peñafrancia and CFC Batangas an audio-
eternal fire.” In time, the Church extended this visual presentation on the Virgin of Lipa, Mary,
privilege to all the laity willing to be invested in Mediatrix of All Grace, as well as on the history
the Brown Scapular. The Blessed Virgin appeared of the discovery of the image of the Virgin of
later to Pope John XXII and said of those wearing Caysasay and the resulting devotion. The first
the Brown Scapular: “I, the Mother of Grace, shall day of the conference closed at almost an hour
descend on the Saturday after their death and before midnight with a solemn and touching
whomsoever I shall find in Purgatory I shall free closing prayer.
so that I may lead them to the holy mountain of The second day opened again with the pray-
life everlasting.” ing of the Glorious Mysteries of the Holy Rosary
Thus on the feast day of the Virgin of Guadalupe, followed by opening worship by Rene Velarde
over 200 men and women pledged to perpetually of CFC Indonesia. Two talks followed on the
wear the Brown Scapular as a sign of their devotion role of Mary in evangelization, a reflection on
the verse “Mary set out and
travelled to the hill country
in haste” (Lk 1:39), and on
Mary and the Church of the
future, a reflection on the
verse “A woman clothed with
the sun” (Rev 12:1), given by
Archbishop Arguelles and
Fr. Agung Prihartana, MSF,
Secretary, Indonesian Family
Commission, respectively.
Archbishop Arguelles gave
an extensive and scholarly
dissertation interspersed with
interesting anecdotes that
was greatly appreciated and
enjoyed by the participants.
The Holy Mass was said
by Archbishop Arguelles
and concelebrated by several
priests in attendance. The
closing remarks were deliv-
ered by Joe Tale, Rouquel
Ponte and Jun Uriarte. The
conference closed with a
Spirit-filled and joyful praise
fest led by Jojo Apolo.
(Ed’s Note: During the con-
ference, the latest book of Jun
and Jean Uriarte titled Aquila
and Priscilla’s Moments with
Mary was launched.
 C2 Ugnayan CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 1
January 4 - 17, 2010

By Joe Tale, CFC Chairman

And Be Filled With

Thanksgiving
A BLESSED 2010 to all! We pray that this new year will be
a season of faith, hope and love – for us and our family, our
community, and our country!
Couples for Christ’s theme this year – “Fullness of Life in
Christ,” from Colossians 2: 6 –7, reads: “Since you have ac-
cepted Christ Jesus as Lord, live in union with him. Keep
your roots deep in him, build your lives on him, and become
stronger in your faith, as you were taught. And be filled with
thanksgiving.”
Fullness of life in Christ is where the Lord has led us through
our years in community, to a deepened personal relationship
with Christ, to a renewed family life, and to opportunities
for sharing our time, talent and treasure with the least of our
brethren.
Indeed, it has been an exhilarating journey of experiencing
God’s love and being transformed, and the privilege of be-
ing ourselves a vessel for sharing that love and helping effect
transformation in others.
Fullness of life in Christ is a wonderful life. It has of course
its difficulties, challenges, and even pain, but even these serve
to make such a life more meaningful and whole.
As the past year ended, and a new one began, I was led to
reflect particularly on the last phrase of the above quoted Co-
lossians passage – “And be filled with thanksgiving.”
Indeed, even with all its natural and man-made calamities,
even with all the pains and hurts we may have undergone
personally, we can still thank the Lord for last year, for seeing
us through the difficulties, for bringing us to this new year.
The Lord is blessing us once more with a new beginning, a
new opportunity to correct past mistakes, another chance to
be a better person, a new season of pursuing our dreams and
our life and mission in CFC.
Having a grateful heart, having an attitude of gratitude, is
not only an effect, but of itself an important element of living
life to the full.
I therefore invite all of you to strengthen our posture of
gratitude as part of our way of life in CFC. And consistent with
our theme, we particularly enhance this attitude this year. Let
us make this year a year of thanksgiving.
First, we thank our Father in heaven, for sending us the gift of
His son, to rescue us from what otherwise may have been a life
of sin and misery for this world in general and for us person-
ally in particular. Things could have been so different if Jesus
had not come to this world, and had not come into our life. In
recognition of our Father’s love, let our hearts always sing:
CFC Meets Thai Bishop
Give thanks, with a grateful heart
Give thanks to the holy one
Give thanks, because He’s given
Jesus Christ His son.
And now, let the weak say I am
THE CFC Greater Mekong Area (GMA) team met with Bishop John Bosco
strong
Panya Kritcharoen of the Diocese of Ratchaburi, Thailand, last Dec. 8 to
Let the poor say I am rich
discuss areas of support by CFC, particularly in the Family Life thrusts of
Because of what the Lord has done
the diocese. Both sides agreed to a closer cooperation, particularly in the
for us
training of missionaries and the establishment of an office to further enhance
Give thanks.
the work of the community.
Thailand is envisioned to be the hub for the Greater Mekong Area CFC
Secondly, let us thank the many persons in our lives through
activities. A Leaders’ Summit, Lay-Clergy Conference, regional MERs 1-3,
whom we have experienced and continue to experience God’s
are planned for 2010. Thai local couples shall be sent to Manila for three
love. Spend time to remember, spend more time to express your
months for orientation and formation. Likewise, missionary couples from
gratitude, spend even more time to pray for them.
the Philippines shall be stationed in Bangkok and shall be under tha aegis
Let us start with those closest to us -- our spouse, our chil-
of the various dioceses and archdioceses to spread the word.
dren, our parents, our siblings, our brothers and sisters in
Countries in the GMA area include Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia,
community, those helping us in our homes, neighborhoods
Myanmar and Laos. The recently appointed regional head for the GMA
and offices. Let us make this list as long and as numerous as
area is Bong Arjonillo.
we can. Let us not forget to say a special prayer for our loved
ones who have gone on to the Lord ahead of us.
During the New Year’s mass in our residential neighbor-
hood, our priest reminded us of a song which made us pause
and reflect, and thereafter resolve to be more expressive of our
thanks. I believe this song is for all of us.
Sometimes, not often enough
We reflect upon the good things
And those thoughts always center
around those we love
And I think about those people,
who mean so much to me
And for so many years have made
me so very happy
And I count the times I have
forgotten to say
“Thank you”
And just how much I love them.
Our Lord, through St. Paul, has told us to be filled with
thanksgiving. Let us follow, joyfully. And in following, ex- (First Row, From Left): Sr. Gina Estoya, CM, Fr. Peter Bunsong Hongthong (Parish priest
and National Head of Family Life), Bishop Panya, Rev. Dr. Phaiyong Manirat (Consultant
perience even more the fullness of life that the Lord is freely of the bishop, judge and professor of Canon Law), Sr. Cresencia R. Lopez, CM (Head of
offering us. Pastoral Care). (Second Row, From Left) Naty Lozare, Sylvia Cruz, Cesar Cruz (Thailand
Country Coordinator), Bong Arjonillo (GMA Regional Coordinator), Jimmy Lozare (Thailand
Let us give thanks, now. God bless us all. Country Director), Clarke Nebrao (Int’l Mission Office Coordinator), Phornsinee Thanara,
Sky Ortigas, Gail Lozare.

By Joe Yamamoto, CFC Director

Getting in Shape
for 2010
WHEN God created the world and all
who live in it, He ordained that some
animals are to hop, others to run, some
to fly and some to swim. Each one had
a unique purpose, shaped as it were to
perform certain specific roles in the hier-
archy of the animal kingdom. Similarly,
plants were so designed by the Creator
to also provide for the various needs of
His best creation yet, man.
Only man was created to have do-
minion over all. With free will, man was
likewise shaped for a divine purpose,
given unique gifts suited for the grand
order and plan of the Almighty. In
simple terms, man was created to know
God, to love God, and to serve God and
at the end of his life on earth, called to
eternal life with his Creator. He is called
upon, while on earth, to exercise his
free will and power to choose how he
desires to live.
In the exercise of his free will, man
chooses to either live alone or to share
his journey with others through com-
munity. But because of his unique re-
lationship with His creator, man always
feels the pull and tension of living his
life in response to God’s plan for him.
Each of us in CFC responded to His
call to community through unique and
varying circumstances. By responding
to that special and specific call, we com-
mitted to develop and form a personal
relationship with God. Many of us,
of course, had no idea that that initial
response to Him would involve not
just our lives, but that of our spouses
and our children as well. Like ripples
moving in progressive circles outward
in the pond and caused by a tossed
pebble, our commitment to Him con-
tinue to enlarge until we are able to
witness to an ever expanding circle
that includes our relatives, friends and
colleagues and sometimes, even total
strangers. That is how our community
Personality and Experiences.
The acronym SHAPE has been re-
inforced in another inspiring book
entitled, ‘SHAPE, Finding and Fulfilling
your Unique Purpose for Life’ ( by Erik
Rees). It has many worthwhile lessons
that can be easily adapted to CFC’s life
and mission.
SPIRITUAL GIFTS: A Christian who
is called to action starts with the first
committed step of making an inven-
tory of the Spiritual gifts. In the hands
of God, ordinary people can achieve
extraordinary results by discovering
the gifts that they have been richly en-
dowed, gifts that have been given freely
by a God who desires only the best for
His people.
1 Corinthians 12:8-10 reinforces our
own understanding of spiritual gifts.
The list of spiritual gifts includes wis-
dom, knowledge, faith, healing, mir-
acles, prophecy, discerning of spirits,
speaking in tongues, and interpretation
of tongues. The gifts are not given for
personal use or glory but rather be-
stowed upon Christians for the purpose
of building the Church.
St. Paul indicated that the spiritual
gifts are equally valid but not equally
valuable. Their value is determined by
their value to the Church and Church
community life. Paul used the analogy
of the different parts of the human
body. All the parts work to optimize
the physiology of the body but it is
recognized that some are more impor-
tant than others. The service one gives
is in proportion to the gifts that one
possesses and in accordance with the
purpose it was given to him.
Paul wrote in Ephesians 4:11-12- “It
was he who ‘gave gifts to people;’ he
appointed some to be apostles, others
to be prophets, others to be evangelists,
others to be pastors and teachers. He
be confused with the spiritual gifts.
One contemporary author describes
talents as having to do with techniques,
methods and the accompanying com-
petence but the gifts have to do with
spiritual abilities. Lastly, spiritual gifts
are not the same as the fruits of the
Spirit as described in Galatians 5:22-
23- love, joy, peace, patience, kindness,
goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and
self-control.
HEART- At the core of everything
is the heart with which to use the gifts
fully. Unless the heart of the individual
is in tune with God’s ordained purpose,
there just isn’t any sense of fullness or
fulfilment. It is only when there is con-
gruence between core values and core
principles on the one side and passion
on the other than the right combination
for fulfilment happens.
In Colossians 3:23-24, we are enjoined
that “whatever you do, do from the
heart, as for the Lord and not for others,
knowing that you will receive from the
Lord the due payment of the inheri-
tance.” By uncovering one’s passion,
one is able to experience the magnificent
plan that God has in store for him, some-
thing that may be substantially different
from another.
A Christian author, Tom Paterson,
wrote: “Heart is where you are centered,
where you desire to serve, the altar upon
which to place your talents...heart refers
to empathy, attraction, or factor that
draws one toward a group of people,
a field of expertise, or a particular type
of service. Evaluating your heart helps
you determine where you might best
use gifts, where you wish to serve, and
whom you wish to serve.”
ABILITIES- This refers to discovering
what you are good at. In short, where
and what you are ‘wired’ for. Then
strength as consistent near-perfect
performance in an activity. As such,
one can excel mainly by maximizing
his strengths and not by fixating on
weaknesses.
Three factors combine to create
strengths: a) Talents, which are natu-
rally recurring patterns of thought, feel-
ing or behaviour, b) Knowledge which
consists of facts and lessons learned,
and c) Skills, which involves steps of
an activity.
PERSONALITY- In simple terms,
this refers to who God has made us to
be- different one from the other and
yet equally precious in the eyes of
God. Rick Warren aptly states: “like
stained glass, our different personali-
ties reflect God’s light in many colors
and patterns.”
Some of us are comfortable in the
presence of many persons and therefore
are able to relate rather quickly and
easily while others are led to a more
quiet life with comfort being developed
among the very few. Given proper ori-
entation, cultivation and appreciation
by the person concerned or the people
charged with his or her growth, each
person will certainly find the right
environment to allow his talents and
giftedness to bloom fully. Such is the
challenge and opportunity confront-
ing leaders of organizations, churches
or communities and the sooner this
is addressed, the better the outcome .
Successful and caring parents are keenly
aware of the reality that not every child
is treated and reared exactly the same.
The individuality of each child or per-
son must be discovered and properly
harnessed.
EXPERIENCES – This variable deter-
mines or defines where we have been
or how we have been shaped by the
Many times, we are confronted with
circumstances that force us to remember
our childhood, adolescence, and the
collective journey to adulthood. For
married couples, we also need to draw
lessons from the experiences of raising
a family.
Definitely the fun and pleasant
ones are nice to remember. However
painful lessons and sad experiences
have unique ways of teaching us and
many times have even served to make
manifest our strengths and definitely
enabled us to experience God’s limit-
less love and care. Not all experiences
are supposed to be personally gone
through, because lessons can be learned
vicariously, i.e. through the experiences
of other people. Here is where study,
fellowship, and sharing of community
life teach invaluable lessons. The rev-
elations of God through the millennia,
made through the patriarchs, prophets
and God’s people, are sources of valu-
able lessons.
Erik Rees puts it succinctly. “Imagine
yourself walking a long hallway. On
the walls are paintings that reflect those
life-shaping moments in your life. On
one side are portraits of experiences
that brought you excitement, achieve-
ment, and fulfilment. On the other side
hang pictures of experiences that caused
pain, frustration, and remorse. Walking
slowly down the hallway, looking care-
fully at each painting, is an important
step toward understanding who God
created you to be and discovering the
Kingdom Purpose he has set aside just
for you.”
EMBARKING FOR THE NEW YEAR
Prepared for the best that is to come
is always the expectant and positive at-
titude of joyful Christians. After all God
said: ”For I know well the plans I have
in mind for you, says the Lord, plans
LAYOUT BY LAURENCE JOHN R. MORALES

has grown -- one person at a time, one
family at a time, one group of families
at a time, one town, province, country
at a time.
In the bestselling book of Rick War-
ren ( The Purpose Driven Life), he
states that a dedicated Christian may
be better enabled to fulfill his purpose
and mission in life by appreciating and
working on his S.H.A.P.E., an acronym
for Spiritual gifts, Heart, Attitude,
did this to prepare all God’s people for
the work of Christian service, in order
to build up the body of Christ.”
It is appropriate to clarify what
spiritual gifts are not. First, they are
not synonymous with personality traits
since these traits do not indicate what
spiritual gifts one possesses. However,
these traits provide the natural vehicles
with which to adequately express the
gifts. Next, natural talents should not
again, it is important to recognize the
need to align passion, abilities and gifts
if one is to uncover one’s purpose in life.
Abilities are best seen as some innate
capabilities that a person is born with
and which over time can be honed to
a level of expertise or strength through
training and practice. For all intents and
purposes, abilities and strengths can be
interchangeably used.
Author Marcus Buckingham defines
past. Whether accepted or not, there
is nothing that one can do to unravel
the past but that is not to say that one
cannot derive or apply lessons from the
past. In God’s plan, we are all works in
progress. Just like clay in His hands,
He continues to shape us and correctly
expects our lives to be masterpieces. He
uses all our experiences, both the enjoy-
able and pleasant as well as the painful
ones to produce the finished product.
for your welfare, not for woe!; plans to
give you a future full of hope. When
you call me , when you go pray to me,
I will listen to you. When you look for
me, you will find me. Yes, when you
seek me with all your heart, you will
find me with you.”
How can we not remain hopeful?
When we are in the Lord, how can we
lose? Happy New Year to all Get in
SHAPE for 2010.
 CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 1
January 4 - 17, 2010
Ugnayan C3

Couples for Christ Leaders Invited to

Preparatory Meeting in the Vatican
By Rouquel Ponte
IN response to the invitation of His Eminence, Stanislaw Cardinal
Rylko, President of the Pontifical Council for the Laity, three mem-
bers of the CFC International Council, namely: Joe Tale, Joe Yama-
moto and Rouquel Ponte attended a meeting last 31 October 2009 at
the main office of the said dicastery in the Vatican. As contained in
the invitation letter, this was to be a preparatory meeting to consult
representatives of some Ecclesial Movements and New Communities
for the scheduled Congress of the Catholic Laity in Asia to be held
in Seoul, Korea on 31 August – 05 September 2010.
After the opening prayers, Cardinal Rylko welcomed all partici-
pants representing about twelve movements and communities. There
were three groups based in Asia invited to the meeting: the Catholic
Charismatic community of India, members of the organizing team
coming from Seoul, Korea and Couples for Christ.
Cardinal Rylko gave the opening talk emphasizing the strong slant
on Mission and Evangelization of the Pontifical Council for the La-
ity especially in Asia. The late Holy Father, Pope John Paul II in his
letter, Ecclesia in Asia stressed the important work of the Church of
the Third Millennium, the evangelization of the Asian continent. As
the new communities and ecclesial movements are a response of the
Holy Spirit to the challenges of evangelization, Cardinal Rylko led
everyone to a deeper reflection of the work that lies ahead.
Cardinal Rylko emphasized the following important points:
1. Asia is the biggest and most populous continent, with approximate-
ly 4.3 billion people, comprising about 2/3 of the world’s population.
2. Of the above total, only about 350 million are Christians with
about 115 million Catholics. The Savior who was born in Asia is
mostly unknown in this continent.
3. The road to evangelization in Asia is not easy. Though there
are encouraging signs of the springtime of faith in Asia like the
Philippines, the only Christian country with the presence of a strong
Church including vibrant lay communities, and the Church of Korea
which is experiencing dynamic growth, challenges remain. The chal-
The three IC members pose with the other members of the convenor group for
the forthcoming conference.
lenges are enormous because of fundamentalism and fanaticism, not
to mention the increasing secularization of the continent. In addition,
at least 60% of governments in Asia have either anti-conversion laws
or have put limitations to the Church’s mission.
Cardinal Rylko also highlighted several issues which the different
movements must consider as they help the Church in its evangeli-
zation efforts. Cultural diversity, religious pluralism, government
corruption, social poverty, declining family and moral values are
just some of the factors which must be discussed in the scheduled
Congress in Korea and hopefully we can come up with good strate-
gies for implementation.
Lastly, he suggested a sort of a compass or guide for lay com-
munities as they reflect and discern on future initiatives. The fol-
lowing documents for study were mentioned: Christifideles Laici,
Declaration of Doctrine of the Faith (Universal Salvation of Jesus in
the Church), and Redemptoris Mission.
In closing, Cardinal Rylko encouraged everyone to be coura-
geous and to continue proclaiming Christ to the world especially
in the continent where He is least known. There can never be true
evangelization without the explicit proclamation of Christ as Our
Lord and Savior.
After the talk of Cardinal Rylko, the various groups made their
individual reports and inputs on the scheduled Congress. There was
an interactive discussion that followed and the meeting ended with
a strong commitment from everyone to fully support the upcom-
ing Congress. After the praying of the Angelus, there was a short
fellowship among the participants and leaders of the Pontifical
Council for the Laity.

CFC Basilan Celebrates 13 Years

By Lito Araneta
COUPLES for Christ Basilan cel-
ebrated its 13th anniversary last
December 5, 2009 at the Claret Social
Hall, Lamitan. Basilan. A caravan
that started from the CFC Provincial
Mission Center at Isabela City, about
28 kilometers from the venue, was the
first order of the day.
One of the highlights of the cel-
ebration was a Thanksgiving Mass
celebrated by Basilan bishop, Most
Reverend Martin S. Jumoad DD. In his
homily, Bishop Jumoad emphasized
four points: 1) that Jesus is a great
healer. We CFC, being commissioned
by Christ, have been given the gift to
heal, but we can only heal if, within
us, there are no hurts, resentment,
bitterness, envy, jealousy, or pride,
but only forgiveness; 2) that Jesus is
a great reconciler. We are anointed to
evangelize to the ends of the earth and
to reconcile our lost brothers and sis-
ters to our Lord; 3) that Jesus is a great
comforter. As His workers, we are to
bring glad tidings to the poor and to
comfort those who are lost, least and
last; and 4) that Jesus is generous. We
are also called to be generous not only
with our financial resources, but also
with our talents and time. As partner
of the Prelature, we should be active
and generous in sharing our time and
strengths for the furtherance of our vi-
sion and mission.
Before the final blessing, Bishop
Martin led the reading of the CFC
Recommitment Prayer and blessed
all CFC leaders. In his final message,
he exhorted all the members who
have opted to lie low to return to CFC
and help in the fulfillment of CFC’s
vision and mission as partner of the
Prelature.
A luncheon feast followed after the
mass, with Bishop Martin joining the
rest of the guests who included the
members of the Provincial Council
of CFC Zamboanga City, headed by
Provincial Area Director Nanding
Gonzales, Joseph Paltingca, the Pro-
vincial Area Head of Basilan and Caloy
Subang, the Regional Head of Western
Mindanao.
Another highlight was the turn-over
of a 7.5 HP Shredder machine by the
Provincial Agriculturist of the Depart- accepted by our ANCOP Provincial Organic Fertilizer production using
ment of Agriculture and Fisheries, Coordinator, Pete Dumaplin, with the the Vermi Composting.
ARMM (represented by the OIC, DAP, Lamitan Municipal Agriculturist as The day was capped with a vibrant
ARMM Sally Guillermo) to the ANCOP witness. The donation of the machine praise fest led by the Singles for
in CFC Basilan. The donation was comes with a free training (hands-on) on Christ.

CFC Zambo Sur Joins Mindanao Week of Peace CFC Tawi – Tawi is also 13!
THE Couples for Christ of Zamboanga del Sur-Pagadian City headed by Jun delos Santos, Provincial By Luz P. Galarosa
Area Director (first row 2nd from right) joins the celebration of the “MINDANAO WEEK OF PEACE”
(26 November - 02 December 2009) with the Theme: “Think Mindanao, Feel Mindanao and Bring Peace COUPLES for Christ (CFC) in Tawi–Tawi celebrat-
to Mindanao.” The activity -was spearheaded by Interfaith Forum for Peace and Solidarity, a tripartite ed their 13th founding anniversary last December
non-governmental organization (NGO) composed of Christians, Muslims and Subanen. 13, 2009 with the theme “Forward In Christ.”
CFC Tawi-Tawi was established on December
15, 1996 when its first batch of seventeen (17)
couples were dedicated after having finished the
Christian Life Program conducted by a mission
team from Zamboanga City.
This year’s anniversary celebration was high-
lighted by a Eucharistic Mass celebrated by Bishop
Angelito S. Lampon, OMI, D.D., Bishop of Jolo
and Tawi–Tawi Vicariate and concelebrated by
visiting priests Rev. Fr. Ramon Ma. Bernabe, OMI,
Provincial Head of OMI Priests and Bishops in
the Philippines and Fr. Federico Labaglay, OMI
Representative based in Rome, and Asst. Parish
Priest Fr. Julito dela Cruz , Jr.
After the Eucharistic Mass, the activities for the
day started with a vibrant worship. Romulo T.
Galarosa, CFC Provincial Area Director, delivered
the welcome address. Bishop Lampon also gave an
inspiring message exhorting the members of CFC
to move forward in Christ in the evangelization of
families for a transformed and better society where
peace and love reigns. Vic Lauro, Regional Head,
urged the CFC in Tawi–Tawi to work and serve
with zeal and love for CFC goals to be attained.
He exhorted everyone to move and strain forward
to achieve “Fullness of Life in Christ” which is the
CFC theme for the year 2010.

A Day of Healing
By Louie and Meann Manuel on shopping, parties and other external trimmings,
and one that is centered on Jesus, whose birth we
THE South A sector held a Healing Conference celebrate. Fr. Teo also emphasized that we are what
leading to the Healing of the Family Tree last we are because of our family, and not just our imme-
December 26 at the multipurpose hall of the Last diate family but our ancestors. This is the reason why Bishop Lampon (center) with Tawi-Tawi leaders and Regional Head Vic Lauro (to his left).
Supper Parish Church in Las Pinas. Fr. Teofilo S. we must always remember our family tree, the sins
Rustia was the guest speaker and facilitator of the
conference attended by South A leaders.
The whole-day activity started at 8:30 in the
and all negative traits of our ancestors, and always
pray for them, especially during the celebration of
the Holy Eucharist for healing and deliverance.
Catanduanes Provincial Core Group
morning with worship and an exhortation by Rey Fr. Teo asked all the participants, during the lunch CFC Catanduanes held its annual Family Day on November 30 at the Amenia Beach Resort. The fol-
de los Reyes. break, to make their respective genealogy. The lowing day, the community conducted a Planning Session at West Garden Subdivision. Photo shows
The first talk by Father Teo centered on the mean- participants were asked to include in their genealo- the provincial leaders; Foreground: BJ Villareal (KFC), Front Row (L to R): Joe and Ave Bernal (ANCOP
ing of Christmas – one that is alive in the heart of our gies the particular negative traits which they have Head), Leony Tasar-
family and not the Christmas celebration focused inherited and which they wish to remove so that the ra, Judee and Joey
influence of these traits would Villareal (Pastoral
be broken at their particular Support); Second
level in the family tree. Row (L to R): Ma-
The Holy Eucharist was lin Bernal, Mar-
a fitting climax to the activ- ing Templonuevo,
ity, particularly since Fr. Teo Aidz Rodriguez,
celebrated a healing Mass. At Virgie Asensi , Glo
the Offertory, the genealo- Vargas; Last Row
gies earlier prepared by the (L to R): Dante
participants were offered to Rojas (PAD), Ely
the Lord and symbolically Templonuevo
destroyed as a sign of Jesus’ (Family Ministries
healing power now working Head), George
in the lives of those present. Asensi (PAH), Ern-
It was a meaningful experi- ing Tasarra (Music
ence for all present, particu- Ministry Head),
larly since they all agreed that Bobot Vargas (Ser-
the presence of the Spirit was vant), Lando Rodri-
palpable during the entire guez (KFC Provin-
activity. cial Coordinator)
 C4 Ugnayan CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 1
January 4 - 17, 2010

CFC Milestones in 2009

By Joe Yamamoto
THE year 2009 was defined by our theme FOR-
WARD IN CHRIST. Considering the challenges
our community confronted beginning in 2007, this
was indeed an apt theme.
While the community committed to forget the
hurts of the past and to move forward in attain-
ing our vision and mission, focused only on Jesus,
there was also a general feeling that our strength
lay in the very fundamentals of our community
life, on the basic premises and reasons why God
has given life to CFC. We had revisited our vision
and mission in 2008 and had gained the confidence
of knowing that the challenges had not broken us
but had instead served to rekindle in us the fire of
evangelization and mission. The year 2009 showed
us that the challenges persisted and our struggles
were not over. Most recently, we experienced an
inner stress brought about by a seeming emphasis
on the social aspects of our work, with some argu-
ing that this had come about because of neglect or
dilution of the basic reason for our existence.
And so 2009 became not simply a year to move
forward but also to take careful and deliberate
stock of our vision and mission, and to proceed
towards understanding and accepting what we
do best and further enhancing our strengths.
This introspection led us to be better attuned to
our core strengths, and to respond more fully to
calls to align our vision and mission with our core
values.
How did CFC fare in 2009?
EVANGELIZATION
The serious difficulties that confronted the
community within the last two years have not dis-
tracted CFC from its two-fold mission of Building
the Church of the Home and Building the Church
of the Poor.
Rather than destroy, the challenges and trials
have instead resulted in a renewed vigor and
fervor for evangelization and mission. In fact, in
the extremely isolated cases of some provincial
leaders declaring non-allegiance to CFC’s line of
authority, we have seen a big jump in attendance at
every gathering or assembly and a renewed zeal for
bringing people into the Christian Life Program.
Our evangelization surveys, done yearly, have
shown increases in our population as a result of
every country, province and sector conducting
CLPs as their contribution to the global work of
proclaiming christ in words and in action. Many
have taken the call to be creative in evangelization
and have embarked on pocket CLPs, in some cases,
even one-on-one CLPs.
MISSION
Here and abroad, our leaders are sending mis-
sion teams to areas , towns and cities, proclaiming
Christ and sharing His Good News. CFC Italy, for
instance, has set as goal CLPs in every province
in the country. In the US, CFC is already in 25
states; the goal is to have CFC in all 50 states in
two years’ time.
PASTORAL FORMATION
Record attendance was again the norm in all
the assemblies, whether they were the general,
nationwide assemblies like the annual leaders’
conferences in Araneta and the anniversary cel-
ebrations at the Luneta or the international leaders
conferences of the Family Ministries, the provincial
anniversaries, and the echo conferences all over
the world.
We take particular notice of the enthusiasm
shown by our youth, from the Kids for Christ to
Youth for Christ and Singles for Christ. Their con-
ferences have been marked not only by overflow
crowds but more importantly, by their concrete de-
sire to be significant contributors to the fullness of
the life and mission that their parents aspire for.
There is widespread agreement that the confer-
ences continue to put emphasis on the understand-
ing as well as implementation of the vision and
mission of CFC. There is a strong yearning for
deepening of spiritual formation. In emphasizing
pastoral formation, prayer and foundation on the
Scriptures loom prominently.
And there is the desire to innovate. For the
first time, leaders based in Mindanao organized a
Mindanao-wide Leaders Recollection last Novem-
ber 7 and 8, a move designed to make the regional
leadership truly one in mind and heart in attaining
the goals of the region. It was so successful that this
could very well be the pattern for Luzon, Visayas
and Metro Manila and other major regions around
the world.
Last December 12 and 13, the Southeast Asian
Region of CFC also conducted the First Marian
Conference entitled: “The Role of Mary in Evan-
gelization and Family Life Renewal.” Held in Ja-
karta, Indonesia, the occasion was a fitting climax
to CFC’s work for 2009. It became a pilgrimage
of souls, dedicated to making Mary an integral
part of our community life. Archbishop Ramon
Arguelles of Lipa and other ASEAN-based clergy
were also at this conference.
WORK WITH THE POOR
The year 2009 was a critical and yet important
landmark in the history of CFC. After much prayer
and reflection, CFC decided to let go of Gawad
Kalinga as a foundation as well as an institution
within the governance of CFC. The decision to let
go, however, was qualified in that CFC commits
to provide for the needs (material and spiritual)
of the GK communities that are CFC-managed. It
was an extremely difficult decision, but in the end,
it was deemed to be part of God’s overall plan for
the community.
As with all major decisions, it was not a unani-
mously popular one, with small pockets within
the community contending that the work with
the poor would not prosper without GK and some
quarters even alleging that our Vatican recognition
was hinged on GK being the core of CFC’s work
with the poor. To reiterate, CFC is not abandon-
ing the work with the poor and that the Vatican
recognition was given to CFC because of the
totality of its work – family life and renewal and
social transformation. CFC has also taken pains
to emphasize that Gawad Kalinga would benefit
more from the move because their growth as a
nation-builder and as an international movement
would be hampered by their association with a
community that puts much stock on our being
One With the Church. CFC has also noted the dis-
sonance on the ground with the existence of two
lines of governance (CFC and GK) exercising equal
authority and responsibility over the sites.
What CFC has continued to stress is that the
work with the poor continues and at an even
expanded scope and reach. The scope of the mis-
sion can only be seen and fully experienced under
one, united CFC leadership that provides for the
pastoral, operational and organizational directions
and governance for the community.
On December 8, the holy feast of the Immaculate
Conception, CFC formally launched ANCOP as the
CFC Work with the Poor. During that occasion,
Mother Mary was also officially declared as our
Patroness for the CFC Work with the Poor and that
such work would only prosper if we all realize that
“at the heart of the Work is the heart of Jesus.”
ANCOP as the fullness of CFC work with the
poor does not start from zero. There are already
ongoing programs that have been implemented
for the past years, albeit in low key and vis-
ibility. Education, Health, and Food Sufficiency
with freedom from hunger form the backbone
of our commitment. The welfare of the lost, the
last and the lowly looms heavily in the thrust of
CFC. The concerns of migrants and prisoners and
their families, and especially the materially- poor
among our CFC members will be major commit-
ments as well.
The structure of ANCOP work is incorporated
in the existing pastoral and organizational struc-
ture of CFC in all areas. There will be no need for
parallel structures nor governance outside of the
CFC structure.
ANCOP work will not only be Philippine-
centric, although a good part of the work will
be done here. Wherever there is CFC around the
world, CFC and the fullness of its ministries will
be a blessing to the host and adoptive countries.
Our CFC leaders and members will also take care
of the poor in those countries, and not just address
the needs of the Filipinos.
The twin calamities that were typhoons Ondoy
and Pepeng served to demonstrate the commit-
ment of CFC to help. For the first time, we as a
community realized the full potential of our ca-
pacity to come together as one to help those who
need it most. The global family of CFC responded
generously and selflessly and opened their hearts
and pockets in an outpouring of love for those who
lost homes, properties and lives in the floods and
landslides that accompanied the typhoons.
CHURCH RELATIONS
As CFC stands today, we see that our relation-
ship with the Clergy has never been as robust.
We intend to continue to strengthen and nurture
these bonds. We need to see more and more of
the Church hierarchy relying and experiencing
the presence of CFC in the dioceses and the par-
ishes. There have been several key Clergy-Lay
Congresses conducted under the auspices of CFC
in Manila, provinces and even in many countries.
The net effect has been better understanding and
mutual appreciation and respect.
This year, we have institutionalized the pres-
ence and role of our Spiritual advisers for Luzon,
Visayas and Mindanao.
2009 also witnessed the election of CFC Chair-
man, Joe Tale, as a member of the Laiko Board,
a first in the long history of CFC. He was also
elected as the PRO of the Board, an even greater
affirmation of the respect the Church and other lay
groups accord CFC.
Since the crisis year of 2007, the CFC Council
have also strengthened our relations with Vatican,
and have submitted regular reports and conducted
personal representations to the Pontifical Council
of the Laity. In October, CFC was also invited to
be part of the preparatory meeting in the Vatican
for the upcoming Congress on the Evangelization
for Asians, scheduled in Seoul, South Korea on
August 31 to September 5, 2010. We see this as
another affirmation of our increasing role, in the
eyes of the Church, as helper of the Church in the
fulfilment of its evangelistic mission.
On November 18, Joe and Babylou Tale and Joe
and Mila Yamamoto were interviewed at a major
program over Catholic network EWTN, which has
a reach of 180 million households around the world.
It was an excellent and providential opportunity to
herald the role of CFC in building the church of the
home and building the church of the poor.
GOVERNANCE
CFC is happy to announce that this is the second
straight year that our community is financially in
the black. We have proven, with the help of the
entire community, that we can be self-sufficient,
not dependent on loans or behests in order to do
our work.
In return CFC leaders have committed to good
governance , transparency and good stewardship
of the community’s finances and resources while
continuing to expand the work of the community.
Healthy finances and continuing and expanding
work are not incompatible objectives of the commu-
nity and as a matter of reality, this is happening.
The dream of CFC that is within reach is building
a permanent home for CFC, right here in Metro Ma-
nila. By the time, CFC celebrates its 30th anniversary
in June 2011, our CFC Home Office building will
likewise see reality. It will happen because all of us
are committed to the dream and the goal.
For the healthy future of the Community, we
have to prepare the next generation and tiers of
leaders by ensuring that the skills, dedication and
competence of our leaders are further honed and
refined. There is also a commitment to deepen
pastoral training and formation. Towards these
goals, CFC will establish a Leadership Institute in
addition to a planned Pastoral Institute.
The year that has commenced will be defined by a
new theme – Fullness of Life in Christ. Seeing how
our themes in the past have been truly inspired and
have indeed been appropriate in view of the events
and circumstances of the years they were intended
for, we can truly look forward with hope and ex-
pectation to 2010. For our great and mighty God is
promising us a life that will be filled and fulfilled
in His Son. What an awesome prospect!

Prophecies for CFC in 2010

THE prophetic gifts of the CFC elders Fr. Paul Uwemedimo: “I’ve called you However as I am the God of Revela- that you will celebrate.” ries, doubts… Go to the top of the hills
took center stage at the first CFC Mis- to be a light to the nation, I have called tion, know that when I do, when I call Jun Uriarte: “This is the year that I and proclaim My Word, My Name.
sion Core Gathering for the year, held you to proclaim my Word to the ends out your true self, I will change you and have chosen for your community to give I will bless you. I will send you my
at the Ateneo Grade School Gymna- of the earth, to proclaim Christ to the anoint you. And that will be the time honor to my Mother. I will pour out Sprit. Do not fear. Go! Go and evan-
sium on January 3, 2010. Among the ends of the my blessings gelize! Then you will feel the fullness
prophecies: earth. Ac- and my grac- of your life in Me.”
cept my call. es on your
Nina Ponte: “And the Lord says, Embrace my community, The exercise of prophetic gifts dur-
‘Who may ascend the mountain of call.” and I will ing worship at every MCG Prayer As-
the Lord? Those who are pure and Mannix bring unity sembly has been a long standing CFC
upright of heart! Those of you on the Ocampo: “I to your com- tradition. In 1 Cor 14:3 Paul says: “He
mountaintop who are in spiritual am the God munity and who prophesies, speaks to men for
communion with Me, listen and lis- of Revela- it is my will their upbuilding and encouragement
ten well! Today, this moment, open tion, I open, that I do this and consolation.”
your hearts for today, among you I I reveal. I do through My The first gathering of Mission
choose new prophets, I anoint new not look on Mother.” Core members for the year was also
messengers, I anoint evangelizers. I the physical Mila Ya- highlighted by the offering of the
choose from among you teachers and but I look at mamoto: First Fruits. This has also become
preachers. This very day, rejoice for the heart. I “I proclaim part of CFC tradition, when every-
I have come. Those who accept me will shatter this year as one, beginning with the first MCG
receive my empowerment, receive my the masks a year of and echoed in every first gathering
anointing…. My people, I command that cover evangeliza- or assembly in every cluster, unit
you: Let this year be a year of exalta- your faces. tion, a year and household everywhere, make
tion…Exalt my Word. You teachers, I will reveal of intense an offering to the Lord. This fol-
you prophets, you preachers, you your true evangeli- lows the very early Jewish practice
evangelizers -- spread my Word, my selves and zation. Set of the faithful offering to the Lord
word coming from the Bible…., my you will be aside your the best of what they have to offer
book itself.” h u m b l e d . Rouquel Ponte leads the community in the offering of the first fruits. fears, wor- for the year.