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< Yo un g H e a rt, B o l d Fa i t h >

V.19.02 | 2021

Mary Is Our
Mother Too
TEACHING SPACE VOCATION & PURPOSE
Forgiveness Is a Gift to Yourself Why Mary Is the Best
Intercessor When Discerning
FiSH V.19.02 | 2021
Mary :
The Perfect
Model of
Discipleship
By Bo Sanchez
hat is essential for a car to go from point
A to point B? The engine, the wheels, the
steering wheel, the pedals, and the basic
metal frame to hold them together. That’s
it.
The air-conditioning? Not essential. Seats? You could sit
on a wooden box. Seat belts? Just hold on really tight.
Side mirrors? No need. Just keep turning your head left
and right. Horn? Just shout really loud.
All these things are not essential to bring you from point
A to point B. But if I drive a car, I want all those stuff
there. It makes life easier.
That’s like Mary and the saints. I could follow Jesus
without them. But if God is giving them to me, why not
receive them?
Mary can be a rich gift to your relationship with Jesus.
We just need to discern and reject wrong beliefs about
Mary.
One day, I heard from a homily of a priest. He said Jesus
was standing in front of the gates of heaven, rejecting
a lot of souls who wanted to go in but were not just
worthy. After rejecting thousands of souls, He walked
FISHERMAN’S CATCH 1
into heaven and, to His shock, saw some of the people
He just rejected walking around. Jesus sighed, shook
His head, walked to the back door of heaven where
Mama Mary was letting in the souls outside.
“Quick! Come in, come in.”
It’s a cute story. But it’s totally wrong.
Mary is not more merciful than Jesus. Whatever love
Mary has in her heart comes from God. Mary reflects
God’s love.
Who is Mary?
Mary’s whole purpose is to bring us closer to Jesus. If,
at any time, she draws us away from Jesus, that’s not
Mary. That’s a fake Mary. Mary is the first disciple of
Jesus. And she wants you to also become a disciple of
her Son.
In the miracle of Cana, Mary told the servants, “Do
whatever He tells you” (John 2:5, GNT).
I believe that’s the entire message of her life. She wants
you to follow Jesus. So when God calls you, you too can
say with her, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it
be to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38, NKJV).
FiSH V.19.02 | 2021 CONTENTS 2

01 FISHERMAN’S CATCH

fish
Mary: The Perfect Model of Discipleship

04 GOOD THOUGHTS BULLETIN

05 ARTWORKS & CRAFTS

Gen Z, You’re Iconic V. 1 9 . 0 2 | 2021

06

HEALTH & WELLNESS
Running Realization

Editor in Chief:

07 CAMPUS PULSE
Mary: A Woman Dependent on a Strong God
Dina Pecaña

Acting Supervisor, Magazines:

Kring Talladen

09 TEACHING SPACE
Forgiveness Is a Gift to Yourself Assistant Managing Editor and Layout Artist:
Elle Z. Silvestre

11 REVIEW CORNER
A Movie Review on The Circle
Editorial Assistant:
Angie Espuerta

12 YOUTH HOME
The Greatest Mother of All
Publisher: Bo Sanchez
Chairman of the Board: Hermie Morelos
President: Randy Borromeo
Vice President, Corporate Services: Rowena Cequeña

13 STILL TIME WITH POPE FRANCIS Assistant Vice President, Production: Tess V. Atienza
Central Marketing Director: Ruby Albino
Sales Manager: Cecille Saldaña

15 SUNDAY FEAST
Fish: Young Heart, Bold Faith
is a product of Shepherd’s Voice Publications, Inc.
located at 60 Chicago St., Cubao, Quezon City.

18 FAMBAM
Look Up, Slow Down
To subscribe, look for Sarah Discutido
Tel. no. 8725-9999, 3470-4091

21 teacher’s classroom
How to Deal with a Student Who Misbehaves
E-mail: fishmagazine@gmail.com
Website: www.feastbooks.ph

22 VOCATION & PURPOSE

Why Mary Is the Best Intercessor When Discerning
No part of this magazine can be reproduced
without permission.

ISSN 2719-115X

23 A SAINT’S STORY
St. Bernadette Soubirous (Part 2)
Philippine copyright
Shepherd’s Voice Publications, Inc. 2021
 Keep walking
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FiSH V.19.02 | 2021
What are the lessons you
learned from the pandemic
and how did they change you?
“The biggest lesson I’ve learned in this pandemic
is to appreciate the small things that make me
happy. I’ve wanted to go to the mall and have
a session at the arcade, eat lunch with my
friends, see a movie, and other things I can’t do
now. I realized how simply going out has helped
me over the years. Once cases go down and
establishments open up again, I’ll treasure the
recreational time I spend with others a lot more.”
Lorenzo Franco D. Kasilag
Grade 9, Quezon City
“Recently, I’ve deleted all my social media
accounts because I was unhappy. I’ve learned
that a lesson is not a lesson, if you haven’t
learned it the hard way, because only then will
you see how much of an influence things like
this can have on someone.”
Kimi Crista Pascual
Grade 10, Quezon City
GOOD THOUGHTS BULLETIN 4
“The most notable lessons I learned during
the pandemic are being resilient and self love.
These lessons influenced and taught me to love
myself more and gave me a growth mindset.
During the pandemic, I’ve learned more about
myself and have changed for the better.”
Regina Giselle R. Balagot
Grade 10, Parañaque City
“This global pandemic has caused me to feel
weary, antsy, and feeble but this did not stop
me from learning to be comfortable in my own
space---I learned to become stronger and better
on my own. I learned that being alone can help
us discover greater things about ourselves.”
Arianna Ashley C. Pamular
Grade 10, Paranaque City
“Some people may see that the pandemic has
brought many negative things. But for me, it
has allowed me to spend more time with my
family, as we can share more meals and stories
together.”
Edgardo Javier D. Kasilag III
Grade 5, Quezon City
FiSH V.19.02 | 2021 ARTWORKS & CRAFTs 5

Gen Z, By Pia Suiza-Fernandez

You’re Iconic!
illennials have taken the spotlight for far D.I.Y. Icon Magnets
too long. Now it’s time for you, Gen Z-ers, to
baffle the world. Who are you and what do Materials:
people say about you? Wood blocks
Acrylic paint
They say you thirst for what’s authentic. Paint brush
You value honesty and transparency in everything which Magnet
means you don’t follow rules blindly. Everything should
make sense to you. Your generation is technology driven How to make:
and tech-savvy but is surprisingly not dependent on it like 1. Think of icons you want to paint on the wooden blocks.
millennials are. You prefer face-to-face communication if Tip: The icons should have meaning to you so you can
possible so you can push your ideas better, not making immediately relate to them when you see them.
your age as an excuse to achieve whatever you want. 2. Paint the surface of the wooden block with the acrylic
paint.
If these descriptions are true, then you, Gen Z-ers, 3. Choose a neutral color to paint your icons on the
are productive individuals who will soon dominate our wooden block.
workforce. Oh, exciting times! Now, here’s a simple craft 4. Attach the magnet at the back of each wooden block.
project that encourages you to be transparent with your 5. Start writing your list for the respective icons you
goals, creative with your ideas, and authentic with your made, then display them where you can easily see
intentions. and update them.

If you were born between

1995 to 2010,

then we’re talking to you.

FiSH V.19.02 | 2021
Running Realization
By Pael Bustamante
re you still loving the process?
“Love the process” is one of the things always
mentioned in every success journey. Well, it’s
true. You can’t reach the prize if you don’t love the
process.
But in a world where we often see the best of people on
social media, we tend to focus too much on the prize
because we get blinded by the prize we set for ourselves.
We get fixated on expectations, with the numbers, with the
results. And that’s OK.
What’s not OK is when we forget about the process and place
false expectations and pressure on ourselves.
Recently, I fell in love with cardio. And tbh, when I started
working out, I hated it. I always wanted to avoid it. But for
some reason, it started with jump ropes and then running.
Maybe it was because of the challenge that I fell in love with
cardio. I enjoyed it.
I have this philosophy when working out: to be better than
how I performed the previous workout. And that has been my
philosophy and goal every time I workout.
I had this run on January 17, 2021, Sunday. I was excited
because I was running a new ten-kilometer route and I said to
myself I’ll be doing a 900-meter run and 100-meter walk. The
first kilometer went great.
But during second kilometer, my legs started feeling sore. I
became frustrated. I was hyped and pumped before the run.
HEALTH & WELLNESS 6
My mind wanted to keep going but for some reason, my legs
were giving up on the pace I set for myself. I dragged myself
for five kilometers and asked myself, “Why am I doing this in
the first place?”
Because I want to be healthy. Because I want to build mental
callouses. Because I want to finish a marathon. Because
I want to build a solid running pace. But why did I choose
running? It’s because I love it. I enjoy running.
I love the feeling of going to places in my running shoes. I
enjoy the wind hitting my face when I’m in my zone. I love the
greenery and buildings of the metro. I enjoy the challenge of
pushing myself.
And when I realized all these things, I stopped focusing on the
stats and numbers and allowed myself to enjoy the run. There
are times when you need to push yourself, times to chill, times
to grind, times to relax, times to hustle, and times to enjoy.
And this run was one that I needed to enjoy.
I started running when I let go and had fun, when I forgot
about the numbers and just focused on enjoying where my
feet were taking me.
From a ten-kilometer run, I finished a fifteen-kilometer run from
Rockwell to Ayala to Circuit. And as a bonus, I set three new
PR, thanks to Strava!
Remember, when you fall in love with the process, the prize
follows.
FiSH V.19.02 | 2021 campus pulse 7

C amp u s Pulse

Mary:
A Woman Dependent
on a Strong God
By Rociel Amag

was a typical child sixteen years ago. I spent most of my summers

just playing with my friends, making the most of what was there to
enjoy. Our parents raised us to attend Sunday Mass, wearing our most
formal attires. It was a family thing—the dress, the Mass, everything.
Throughout my life, I thought my involvement with the church, or should
I say with the Lord, will be just be like that—a routine. Not until my
godmother invited me to become a legionary or a member of the Legion
of Mary. Instead of just playing around, she thought I would find more
meaning in my summers and with the rest of my years as a legionary. My
first attendance was awkward. We prayed the rosary kneeling, and it did
not sit well with me. The succeeding meetings were the same. I thought
playing with my friends before our Saturday meeting could help me be more
interested in it. But it didn’t. In short, everything was boring and routinary.
FiSH V.19.02 | 2021
Saturdays became more interesting when we were asked
to record our “good deeds.” We submitted to the Legion’s
secretary a list of how many sick persons we visited,
the prayers we prayed, the Mass we attended, and all
our voluntary works. This motivated me since I get to
compare my “deeds” with others and was satisfied when I
outnumbered my friends in their inclusions.
When I was twelve, I realized that quality is better than
quantity. I became the vice president of the executive
committee of Inang Kaibig-ibig Junior, a choir member
in our chapel, and eventually a volunteer catechist. This
paved the way for me to become a Mekong Foundation
scholar, which I consider as God’s gift for my service.
I was a scholar in high school and college. This was God’s
redirection as He groomed me for religious work and
mission. Then I became a diocesan scholar which led me
to be a religious educator. I felt that this redirection is real,
and it put more pressure on me. I did not like the course
but decided to push through since my aim was to finish
college. My dislike for the course was temporary because
it helped me to know and learn more about the Blessed
Mother, how amazing her Son Jesus Christ is, and how
mysterious God moves in my life. I discovered the real
meaning of the “good deeds” and “voluntary works” I did
before and I felt satisfied. This time, working for Mama
Mary is no longer a competition nor a requirement but a
personal desire to fulfill.
The Blessed Mother’s impact on me is not what others
would perceive as a miracle. The miraculous intercession
of Mary led me to an appreciation of my humble life,
contentment, and the desire to serve and become a living
witness of the Mother of Christ.
There was a time when my family questioned my devotion
to my service. And Mary proved her existence. My family’s
disapproval was just temporary. Later on, they supported
me more than I had hoped for. As a Marian devotee, I
became more dependent on God’s grace, and having an
ever-dependable Mama Mary gave me peace. I am in good
hands, surrounded by Mary’s maternal protection.
However, following Mary did not spare me from trials. In
2013, my mother was diagnosed with lung disease. The
idea that she would die was unacceptable but inevitable.
My mom died in December 2015. While I’m fond of
Mama Mary, my mother and I were not close. I mourned
her passing and regretted the times I failed to show how
much she meant to me. The death of my mamay rocked
my devotion to Mary. “Mama Mary, paano na ako? Wala
na akong nanay dito. Kasama n’yo na siya dyan. Sino na
nanay ko?” (Mama Mary, what will happen to me? I no
campus pulse 8
The miraculous intercession of
Mary led me to an appreciation of
my humble life, contentment, and
the desire to serve and become a
witness of the Mother of Christ.
longer have my mother. She is now with you. Who will be
my mother now?) How am I supposed to live without her? I
questioned Mary and even God.
For two years, an extreme sadness lingered in me. Moving
forward, my friends in The Feast Manila, my “safe friends,”
were among those who helped me recover. They helped me
realize that all my regrets were pointless since the love of
my mother is unfathomable. They helped me understand
that my mother’s love is greater than my failures and
shortcomings. My mother’s death made me value my
family more—they are my source of strength, inspiration,
and motivation to bounce back. Her death also helped
me appreciate more the praying of the holy rosary and the
solace it gives. God worked out my recovery through my
friends, family, and the Blessed Mother.
I share my experience to show how faithful Jesus and Mary
are. As a Marian devotee, the youth can expect that there
will always be peace and safety. Devotion to Mary repels
all evil spirits. Closeness to Mary assures the youth of
Jesus Christ’s love. Mary can be their source of strength
and inspiration. The young can look up to our Blessed
Mother as an epitome of faithfulness, a perfect ideal of a
dependent and obedient disciple of God, as seen when the
archangel Gabriel told her that she was to be the mother
of Christ.
Mary’s life teaches the youth to be content with simple
things and not vie for worldly pleasures. May the youth
emulate Mary and her virtues. May they look at her as
a significant key to salvation. Through Mary, may young
people realize that good deeds are remembered.
Being close to Mary and Jesus Christ may mean more
hardships, pains, and sufferings. It will not be easy but
it’s all worth it. St. Teresa of Calcutta once said: “The fruit
of faith is love, the fruit of love is service, and the fruit of
service is peace.” May we love Mary as we fill the world
with faith, love, and service that will bring everlasting
peace.
FiSH V.19.02 | 2021
id someone annoy or hurt you, and you had a
hard time forgiving that person? Maybe they
cheated on you, said something offensive,
misunderstood you, left a nasty comment on
your social media, or even cancelled you.
I’ve had my fair share of annoying and hurtful experiences,
and of course, I would give myself the chance to get angry
and recognize the pain. That’s healthy and valid. But
wallowing in the hurt must have an expiration date or it
will turn into poison, damaging your heart in the long run.
Eventually, we must decide to forgive.
One of the teachings at The Feast that I found really helpful
to remind about the beauty of forgiveness was inspired
by the Parable of the the Unforgiving Servant in Matthew
18:21-35. The parable talks about a servant who was
forgiven by his master from his huge debt because the
servant asked for mercy. But this same servant showed
no mercy to someone who has indebted to him. When
the master knew about this, he punished the unforgiving
servant. The story reveals to us the three reasons why we
should forgive.
1. Forgiveness is our natural response to God’s
generosity and forgiveness.
When we know how much God has blessed and
forgiven us, wouldn’t we be inspired to do the same to
TEACHING SPACE 9
Forgiveness
Is a Gift
to Yourself
By Kring Talladen
others? Let us remember that everything we have is
from the Lord, and although we can’t totally repay Him,
we can pay it forward by forgiving and being kind to
others.
2. Forgiveness is the natural path to heal ourselves.
I remember the days when I still couldn’t forgive
someone who hurt me badly. I only experienced true
healing when I learned to let go, forgive, and let God fill
me with the grace and love that I need.
3. Forgiveness is as natural as breathing.
And it is a gift that you give, first and foremost, to
yourself. I can just imagine if I still couldn’t forgive
that person who hurt me, I would remain the angry,
insecure, and heavily-burdened person that I was.
When I finally chose to truly forgive, that’s when I found
peace and it was literally easy to breathe and inhale all
of God’s love, so to speak.
We couldn’t live a full a life if we’re stuck with our grudges
and resentments. My dear young friend, choose to forgive.
It might not be so easy at first but take it one step at a
time. Let go, and let God bless your life.
Join an online Feast today! Visit www.feast.ph for Feast
schedules in your area or district.
FiSH V.19.02 | 2021 10

Call for Contributions

fish
We at Fish Magazine are always on the lookout
for young, dynamic individuals who want to publish
their creative pieces and inspire others by sharing
their life story. Students, this is your chance to
get your work published!

For Art Junkies! For Sports and Health Fanatics!

Artworks & Crafts is a column where you can
showcase your handicrafts or DIY projects such as
crochet, cooking, painting, photography, illustration,
or anything that students can create and enjoy.
Don’t forget to include the materials needed and
instruction on how to make the craft.
For Hobbyists
Musings & Lifestyle is a column that covers
thoughts or reflections about life. Feel free to talk
about the things you love such as habits, fashion,
travel, life hacks, beauty, and even self-care tips.
For Film, Book, and Music Lovers!
Review Corner is a column where you recommend
and give opinion about good reads and movies or
share your favorite playlist.
Health & Wellness is a column where you can tackle
your #FitnessGoals, #VeganRecipes and #GetHealthy to
motivate students to take care of their body, stay active
while at home, and be the best version of themselves.
For Tech Geeks!
Tech Gen is a column where you can share
helpful tips on how students can take good advantage of
the latest technology including, but not limited to, apps,
software, Internet, social media, and gadgets.
For Feasters!
Youth Home is a column dedicated for the servants of
Light of Jesus (LOJ) Youth Ministry. Proclaim the Word of
God through inspiring stories or testimonies.

When you submit your work, please follow this format:

• E-mail subject and file name must be the name of column and name of writer (Ex. Tech Gen – Jane Cruz)
• Must be in Word document
• Has a title
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• If needed, high-resolution photos (at least 300 dpi)
• Use bullet points to keep your article concise and straightforward
• Add a personal touch to your work by sharing your experiences

E-mail your work at fishmagazine@gmail.com

FiSH V.19.02 | 2021 review corner 11

A Movie Review on

The Circle
By Gina V. Verdolaga

ae gets accepted at The Circle, a progressive

tech company. She’s grateful that her friend,
Annie, helps her adjust to her new work,
When we are our best selves,
and even ensures her parents receive much
needed medical benefits. After her initial thrill the possibilites are endless.
fades away, Mae feels concerned about The
Circle’s policies. – Eamon Bailey
The company wants to know what she’s doing 24/7. Even
her leisure time must be spent with coworkers. They
believe not sharing what you do is the same as lying. Soon,
Mae wears a camera to broadcast her life to the world. But
what is the real truth behind The Circle?

Emma Watson brings her Harry Potter star power to her Knowledge is a basic human
role. John Boyega’s Star Wars name power is kept to a
minimum, however, as he only appears at the edge of right. Access to all possible
parties and at the back of dark auditoriums. The plot
is nothing new nor does the message scare you into
awareness as it should have.
human experience is
Still, we’re reminded that global connectivity is rapidly a basic human right.
invading our privacy. It may seem cool that social media
makes it easy to instantly share information and images. – Mae Holland
We just have to ensure we’re in charge of our own media
identity, not others.
FiSH V.19.02 | 2021
hat is your “Mom to the Rescue” story?
Here’s mine. I was clumsy as a kid. I’d
drop things, break them into pieces,
and trip when I played outdoors. I’d call
Mom whenever I fell and got hurt. I’d cry
hard and run to her, and she’d do her
best to comfort me. During scary thunderstorms, I’d
run straight to her. I always lose things too. So I would
always ask Mom if she saw my socks, my keys, my
shoes, etc. as if she was a walking lost and found. And
each time, Mom is there for me, coming to my rescue.
It’s amazing how moms can be the ultimate superhero
in our homes.
Even if my relationship with my mom is not perfect,
she’s a wonderful gift from God. I have another mother,
the one Jesus gave to me and you—Mama Mary who
gave birth to Him. Growing up, I came to know about
the greatest Mother of all by praying the rosary. But
as I got closer to Jesus, I grew closer to Mama Mary
as well. Here are three things that I learned from our
Blessed Mother:
1. Mother’s care is the best. Mama Mary took care
of Jesus the best way she can. In the same way, she
YOUTH HOME 12
The Greatest
Mother of All
By Zil Pigao
takes care of me too. Whenever I worry or am hurting,
I ask Mama Mary to comfort me. She ministers to me
in a personal way, just like a mother, but more so a
spiritual one.
2. Mother loves best. The love of Mama Mary to
Jesus was pure and unconditional. Her love was all
accepting. It made me realize how I should love as
well—with an all-embracing, pure, and unconditional
love.
But the most important lesson I learned from Mama
Mary is . . .
3. Mother knows best. Mama Mary said in the
Magnificat, “My soul magnifies the Lord” (Luke 1:46-
55). She was the greatest model of all, having served
the Lord with her whole heart. She was always ready
to carry Jesus to others and share His love through
how she lived her life. She knew best how to glorify,
serve, and love God with her life.
May we continue to get to know our Blessed Mother
deeper every day, because she loves, cares, and knows
best.
FiSH V.19.02 | 2021 STILL TIME WITH POPE FRANCIS 13

1 2
“Nothing in this world “Because of us,
is indifferent to us.” thousands of species
will no longer give glory
to God by their very
existence. We have no
such right.”

3 4
“Let us protect with “Climate change
love all that God represents one of the
has given us!” principal challenges facing
humanity today, and
the response requires
the solidarity of all.”

5 6
“Together, we pledge our “If we destroy
commitment to raising creation, creation
awareness about the will destroy us.”
stewardship of creation.”

Take a moment of silence and reflect

on God’s message for you through the 7 8
words of Pope Francis. Allow yourself to
“Any harm done to the “A true ecological
grow in faith every day of the month. environment, therefore, is approach knows
harm done to humanity.” how to safeguard
the environment and
justice, hearing the
cry of the earth and
the cry of the poor.”

9 10
“How beautiful would “We must never
it be to leave the world forget that the
a better place than the natural environment
way we found it.” is a collective good,
the patrimony of all
humanity, and the
responsibility of
everyone.”
FiSH V.19.02 | 2021 STILL TIME WITH POPE FRANCIS 14

11 12 13 14 15
“Global action is “To defend the “Lord, reawaken “There can be no “God gave us
needed in order to earth and to in us a sense of renewal of our the Earth ‘to till
reduce pollution safeguard water praise and gratitude relationship with and to keep’ in
and at the same is to protect life.” for our Earth and for nature without a a balanced and
time promote everything You have renewal of humanity respectful way.”
development in created.” itself.”
poorer countries.”

16 17 18 19 20
“Children must “Let us protect the “A youthful heart “I entrust sailors, “The Lord consoles
be able to play, oceans, part of the does not tolerate fishermen, and all us. We are all called
study, and grow in a ‘global commons,’ vital injustice and cannot those in difficulty to comfort our
peaceful environment. for our water supply bow to a ‘throw-away on the seas far brothers and sisters,
Woe to anyone who and the variety of culture’ nor give in to away from home, to testify that God
stifles their joyful living creatures!” the globalization of to the motherly alone can eliminate
impulse to hope!” indifference.” protection of Mary, the causes of
Star of the Sea.” tragedies.”

21 22 23 24 25
“Let us walk together, “Lord, bring healing “We need to care for “‘Creation’ has a “We cannot pretend
taking care of each to our lives, that we the Earth so that it broader meaning all is fine in the
other and of Creation, may protect the world may continue, as God than ‘nature;’ it has face of the great
our common home.” and not prey on it, willed, to be a to do with God’s environmental
that we may sow source of life for the loving plan.” crisis.”
beauty, not pollution entire human family.”
and destruction.”

26 27 28 29 30
“Ecology is essential “We are stewards, “Each community “Convert our “Care for the
for the survival of not masters, of has the duty to hearts, Lord, so environment is
mankind; it is a moral our earth. Each of protect the Earth that love may always a social
issue which us has a personal and to ensure its spread here on concern as well.
affects all of us.” responsibility fruitfulness for the earth.” Let us hear both
to care for the coming generations.” the cry of the Earth
precious gift of and the cry of
God’s creation.” the poor.”
FiSH V.19.02 | 2021
SEPTEMBER 05, 2021
First Reading: Isaiah 35:4-7
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 146:6-7, 8-9,
9-10
Second Reading: James 2:1-5
Gospel Reading: Mark 7:31-37
Jesus left the region around Tyre and
went by way of Sidon toward Lake
Galilee. He went through the land near
the ten cities known as Decapolis. Some
people brought to him a man who was
deaf and could hardly talk. They begged
Jesus just to touch him.
After Jesus had taken him aside from the
crowd, he stuck his fingers in the man’s
ears. Then he spit and put it on the man’s
tongue. Jesus looked up toward heaven,
and with a groan he said, “Effatha!”
which means “Open up!” At once the
man could hear, and he had no more
trouble talking clearly.
Jesus told the people not to say anything
about what he had done. But the more he
told them, the more they talked about it.
They were completely amazed and said,
“Everything he does is good! He even
heals people who cannot hear or talk.”
Which do you think is the one you can
live with—being deaf or being unable to
speak? For me, none! I cannot imagine
living with less than my five senses.
Today’s Gospel tells the story of a man
who is deaf and mute. His friends
brought him to Jesus, and they begged
Jesus to heal the man.
You may not know it but we’re like this
man who couldn’t hear and who couldn’t
speak. How? Our souls are deaf and
mute. Yes, you can hear but who or what
do you listen to? The latest EP of your
fave band, the TED talk of an influencer
you’re following, the conversation
you’re having with a friend. Yes, you
can speak, but what do you talk about?
The latest online game, that refreshing
milk tea from the newly-opened shop,
that fast-food meal inspired by the most
popular K-pop band in the universe.
Don’t get me wrong—these are all good.
Yet there is Someone who’s waiting to
be heard by you—Jesus. Do you know
His voice? What is He telling you? To
hear Jesus, you need to spend quiet time
with Him in prayer. You need to get
to know Him by reading the Bible, by
going to Mass, and by listening to others
when they share about what He has done
in their lives.
Where does having a mute soul come
into this? Well, if you don’t know Jesus,
you won’t hear Him speak and you’ll be
unaware of His presence and what He is
sunday feast 15
doing in your life. And so, you won’t be
able to talk about and share Him with
others. Your soul is on mute when it
comes to Jesus.
Now, let’s go back to the man in the
Gospel. Jesus took the man and led Him
to a place away from the crowd. What
happens next may surprise you: Jesus put
His fingers in the man’s ears. Then He
spit and placed it on the man’s tongue.
Ewww! But guess what? After Jesus said,
“Open up!” the man was deaf and mute
no more! Jesus healed him.
How about you? Do you need healing?
Come to Jesus. Ask Him to open you
up so the Holy Spirit can live and work
in you. Then you’ll be amazed at what
you’ll hear Jesus say to you each day: how
He loves and forgives you, and how He’s
always with you and will never leave you.
And after you listen to Him, you won’t
be able to stop yourself from sharing the
Good News to others.
Reflect
How do you listen to Jesus?
What can you share about
Him to others?
FiSH V.19.02 | 2021
SEPTEMBER 12, 2021
First Reading: Isaiah 50:4-9
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 116:1-2, 3-4,
5-6, 8-9
Second Reading: James 2:14-18
Gospel Reading: Mark 8:27-35
Jesus and his disciples went to the villages
near the town of Caesarea Philippi. As
they were walking along, he asked them,
“What do people say about me?” The
disciples answered, “Some say you are
John the Baptist or maybe Elijah. Others
say you are one of the prophets.” Then
Jesus asked them, “But who do you say I
am?” “You are the Messiah!” Peter replied.
Jesus warned the disciples not to tell
anyone about him.
Jesus began telling his disciples what
would happen to him. He said, “The
nation’s leaders, the chief priests, and the
teachers of the Law of Moses will make
the Son of Man suffer terribly. He will be
rejected and killed, but three days later
he will rise to life.” Then Jesus explained
clearly what he meant.
Peter took Jesus aside and told him to
stop talking like that. But when Jesus
turned and saw the disciples, he corrected
Peter. He said to him, “Satan, get away
from me! You are thinking like everyone
else and not like God.”
Jesus then told the crowd and the
disciples to come closer, and he said:
If any of you want to be my followers,
you must forget about yourself. You must
take up your cross and follow me. If you
want to save your life, you will destroy it.
But if you give up your life for me and
for the good news, you will save it.
Nobody wants to listen to bad news,
Peter included, as the Gospel tells us
today. Jesus was telling him and the other
Apostles that He will suffer at the hands
of the leaders and teachers of the law, that
He will be killed, but will be risen after
three days. Peter probably couldn’t believe
what Jesus was saying. What? Our Teacher
will be killed? On impulse, Peter pulled
Jesus aside and told him, “Stop! Don’t talk
anymore.” What do you think Jesus did?
He told Peter, “Get away from Me, Satan!
You are thinking like everyone else and
not like God.” Jesus corrected Peter.
If I were Peter, I’d feel hurt. Not only
did Jesus get angry and misunderstand
Peter; Jesus even called him Satan. When
Peter told Jesus to stop talking, maybe
it was because he couldn’t take the bad
news—he doesn’t understand why Jesus
needed to suffer and die. On Jesus’ part,
hearing Peter tell Him to stop talking,
Jesus probably felt that His Apostle was
getting in the way of His mission for the
sunday feast 16
Father—to suffer and die on the cross to
save men from sin.
What can we learn from this? First, there
will always be bad news, and no matter
how hard it is to hear and accept, listen
well. Do not just react, like what Peter
did, but listen and understand what is
being said. If you can’t understand, ask
questions so things will become clear to
you. Second, no matter how good our
intention is, we need to be careful not to
get in the way of the Lord’s work. Instead,
let’s work with Him and help fulfill His
mission by doing ours—to love. Him and
our neighbor.
Reflect
What bad news have you
received lately? How did you
take it?
Catechism
“The Apostolic Faith expressed in
the New Testament sees in Jesus’
passion and death not just some
incidental historical event of Jews and
Romans, but the saving act of God
in Jesus’ free self-sacrifice” (560,
Catechism for Filipino Catholics).
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The love alive—
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Read it and bring out the best
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FiSH V.19.02 | 2021
may sound like a tita to you in this article, but
I don’t mind. Please go on reading the article. I
challenge you to pick up a thing or two about the
goodness that unplugging can bring to you and your
family’s well-being.
You may say, “But this is really how we are—we’re
connected 24/7!” Agree. I’m not saying you go for
gadget abstinence, but I urge you to have gadget-free
moments especially when with your family. Your body
is naturally made by God, and gadgets are, well, alien.
Gadgets are not part of your being, and too much of it
can make you unhealthy; just like too much junk food or
sweets can affect your body.
Please be kind to yourself, and give your family life the
gift of experiencing you so you can experience them
more. Look up and then slow down. Here are some ways
you can do so:
Look up! Be deliberate in looking up. Look up from
your phone when your loved ones converse with you,
whatever they may be saying. You cannot capture the
emotions and the real presence of the person if you are
merely listening (or perhaps, pretending to listen).
FAMBAM 18
Look Up,
Slow Down
By Dr. Michele Alignay
Slow down! I know you want things quick, fast, and in
a jiffy! Speed is more important to you. Let me share
this: there is beauty in being slow. Mothers carry their
children for nine months in their womb, and no amount
of technology can hasten that process. So when
you’re tired, burnt out, or lacking in energy, the body
naturally tells you to slow down. Slow down so you can
experience life and your family. You can share heartfelt
laughter with them. You can even appreciate the new
addition to your home that your mom worked hard for.
More importantly, when you slow down, you create more
loving memories with your family that no amount of app
or social media connection can give.
Unplug! When you get the habit of looking up and
slowing down, then do unplug too. You can start this in
your family, like when you are having a meal together.
Come on, it’s just a few hours. And your unplugging
won’t go to waste, promise! Because you are doing this
to give time and focus on your true source of love and
support—your family! No matter how many connections
you have in the online world, there is richness in
connecting to the true people who matter—your fam!
FiSH V.19.02 | 2021
SEPTEMBER 19, 2021
First Reading: Wisdom 2:12, 17-20
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 54:3-4, 5, 6-7
Second Reading: James 3:16–4:3
Gospel Reading: Mark 9:30-37
Jesus left with his disciples and started
through Galilee. He did not want anyone
to know about it, because he was teaching
the disciples that the Son of Man would
be handed over to people who would kill
him. But three days later he would rise
to life. The disciples did not understand
what Jesus meant, and they were afraid
to ask.
Jesus and his disciples went to his home
in Capernaum. After they were inside the
house, Jesus asked them, “What were you
arguing about along the way?” They had
been arguing about which one of them
was the greatest, and so they did not
answer.
After Jesus sat down and told the twelve
disciples to gather around him, he said,
“If you want the place of honor, you must
become a slave and serve others!” Then
Jesus had a child stand near him. He
put his arm around the child and said,
“When you welcome even a child because
of me, you welcome me. And when you
welcome me, you welcome the one who
sent me.”
sunday feast 19
Do you compare yourself with others? I like us: “Being found in appearance as a
do. I guess it’s part of being human and man, He humbled Himself by becoming
imperfect. But doing this can drive you obedient to the point of death, even
nuts because comparison gets you hooked death on a cross” (Philippians 2:8).
on what other people have that you
think you don’t have. The truth is you
have a lot going for you, if only you stop Reflect
comparing and start appreciating yourself
for who you are, the life you’re living, and What do you think is
the blessing you have. great about you?
In today’s Gospel, Jesus overheard
the Apostles arguing and asked them,
“What were you arguing about along the
way?” None of the Apostles answered Quote of the Day
because they were talking about who
is the greatest among them. They were “To fall in love with God is the
probably embarrassed so they kept quiet. greatest romance; to seek Him the
But Jesus still knew, and He taught His greatest adventure; and to find Him
Apostles what greatness meant for Him: the greatest human achievement.”
“If you want the place of honor, you must (Saint Augustine)
become a slave and serve others!”
If you were one of the Apostles, how
would you react? Confused? Shocked?
What Jesus said is as clear as a sunny
day—you become great by serving others,
by humbly serving others. For Jesus,
greatness is humble service. Does this
make sense to you? Don’t worry, young
friend, and pray to the Holy Spirit to
help you understand. Just look at the
example Jesus set for us. He is the Son of
God and yet He became a human being
FiSH V.19.02 | 2021
SEPTEMBER 26, 2021
First Reading: Numbers 11:25-29
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 19:8, 10, 12-
13, 14
Second Reading: James 5:1-6
Gospel Reading: Mark 9:38-43, 45,
47-48
John said, “Teacher, we saw a man using
your name to force demons out of people.
But he wasn’t one of us, and we told him
to stop.” Jesus said to his disciples:
Don’t stop him! No one who works
miracles in my name will soon turn and
say something bad about me. Anyone
who isn’t against us is for us. And anyone
who gives you a cup of water in my
name, just because you belong to me, will
surely be rewarded.
It will be terrible for people who cause
even one of my little followers to sin.
Those people would be better off thrown
into the ocean with a heavy stone tied
around their necks. So if your hand
causes you to sin, cut it off! You would be
better off to go into life crippled than to
have two hands and be thrown into the
fires of hell that never go out.
When I was young and got into a fight
with a friend, I’d end up in a kampi-
kampihan situation. That is, our barkada
sunday feast 20
or group would be divided into two
camps: one that supports my kaaway Reflect
(enemy) and the other that supports
me. Have you ever been in this kind of What is the good that you
situation? do? What is the good you see
others do? Do you see any
In the Gospel, we find John reporting to difference?
Jesus that a man (who is not part of their
group) drives out demons by using Jesus’
name. It was as if John was telling Jesus,
“This man is not our kakampi (not our
ally) so we should stop him!” Notice what Catechism
Jesus tells John and the disciples: “Don’t
stop him! No one who works miracles “Unity is the essence of the Church:
in my name will soon turn and say What an astonishing mystery! There
something bad about me. Anyone who is one Father of the universe, one
isn’t against us is for us.” Logos of the universe, and also one
Holy Spirit, everywhere, one and
What lesson do we learn here? When the same; there is also one virgin
Jesus calls us to help Him do His mission, become mother, and I should like to
there is no room for kampi-kampihan. call her “Church.” (797, Catechism of
He calls us as His brothers and sisters; we the Catholic Church)
need to also treat each other as brothers
and sisters. Jesus teaches us what it means
to cooperate with others in doing His
work, even if they are from a different
Church, faith, or group. The good you
do and the good others do—there’s no
difference. Because we do the good we do
for one God, for His kingdom, and His
glory.
FiSH V.19.02 | 2021
How to Deal
with a Student
Who Misbehaves
By Joseph Legaspi
’ve been teaching for the past fifteen years, and for the
past ten years to present, God blessed me with the
opportunity to teach in a co-educational school. It's not
easy to be a teacher. I would always encounter students
who misbehave or, worse, don’t seem to care about
what is happening in the classroom. do so.
It is tempting to think that misbehavior is done intentionally.
While it is true that there are some students who
misbehave on purpose, this unfortunate behavior comes
from different factors. The following are suggestions on how
you can deal with students who misbehave.
Self-discipline
Students have not yet learned self-control, self-discipline,
and focus since these are life skills that are not taught,
valued, or modeled at home. Students with little self-
discipline may find it hard to cope with school. Effective
counting before, during, and after a certain activity inside
or outside the classroom can help address the lack of self-
discipline. This can be led by the teacher using the hand, so
that students know that you mean business.
Peer pressure
When in a large group, students follow what “everyone
does” even if this contradicts their beliefs or principles.
Peer pressure is critical in student misbehavior. When you
deal with a whole class talking at the same time or refusing
to cooperate, you end up shouting, becoming defensive, and
getting stressed out. Here are ways to help you deal with
students who misbehave due to peer pressure:
• Focus your energy and attention on students who
behave. If there are bullies in your class, be careful not
TEACHER’S CLASSROOM 21
to single them out. Talk to well-behaved students after
the class and thank them for being good.
• Put potential troublemakers next to those who are well-
behaved. It may seem unfair to hard-working students,
but if it helps you get on with the teaching experience,
• Get the “unruly leader” on your side, and you will find
that the rest of the class will follow suit. Establish what
causes his or her misbehavior, and deal with it.
Different students with different needs
Students have different needs which can be a factor in
misbehavior. If a student is struggling with schoolwork,
problematic behavior can be expected. Also, find out those
who have special needs and how these will impact you as
the teacher. Ask the help of a guidance counselor or their
adviser from the previous year. If a student has a learning
difficulty, take it into account. It is easy to misinterpret
learning difficulties, leading to misbehavior. You can avoid
this by knowing where they are coming from.
The Teacher
Some teachers unintentionally contribute to their students’
misbehavior. When you were a student, maybe you had a
teacher with whom most students misbehaved. Did you
make the same mistakes as your teacher?
There are many ways we can deal with misbehaving students
but what is more important is to ask why we do these things.
It is because we love our students. We treat them the way we
would like others to also treat our children. It is our love for
them that urges us to do these things for them.
FiSH V.19.02 | 2021
Why Mary Is the
Best Intercessor
When Discerning
By Elaine Marie Factor
ne funny story that Mama would often tell our
family friends is this: When I was young, she
would put me on her lap every rosary time. One
evening while everyone was prayering, I sighed,
“Paulit-ulit, paulit-ulit.” (Repetitive, repetitive.)
They stopped and looked at me in shock, torn
between scolding and laughing at me.
What made that story funny (at least for Mama) is that she
didn’t expect her little girl, who used to get bored of praying
the rosary, will someday enter the convent.
I dreamt of becoming a nun when I was in high school.
Looking back, I cannot exactly say if I truly wanted to
become a nun then, or I just liked the idea of nunhood, or
I merely loved seeing the surprised faces and the respect
people gave me when I told them, “I want to become a
nun.” No matter, my father, who was an ex-seminarian, knew
that what I needed was spiritual education and guidance.
“The best person to ask for help when you’re discerning is
Mama Mary,” Papa said. He told me how he clung to Mama
Mary when he was a seminarian. He prayed the rosary more
frequently than they were asked to, and each time he did,
he would feel her embrace. He felt peace in his heart after
he prayed. “If there is an expert in discerning God’s will, it
surely is Mama Mary,” he said.
VOCATION & PURPOSE 22
As I grew up and discerned things myself, I understood
Papa’s words better. Here are three things that prove that
Mama Mary, indeed, is the best person to go to when
discerning:
1. Mama Mary was called to a vocation. I believe that
Mary was called to become the mother of the Messiah long
before the Annunciation. She was prepared for her calling
since childhood, but nothing was clear until Angel Gabriel
came to tell the news.
2. Mama Mary did God’s will all the time. Incredulous it
may be to bear a son and stay a virgin, Mary said yes. She
trusted Jesus’ will from that day He left her and Joseph
behind to go the temple until the day He trudged Calvary
while carrying His cross.
3. Mama Mary embraced and lived her calling. Mary,
at the foot of Jesus’ cross, must be the worst feeling any
mother can feel. How painful is it to see the son you raised
and loved being insulted, tortured, and killed in front of a
crowd? She watched it all as her heart was breaking yet
strongly clinging to her Son’s promises. She stood as the
mother of the Messiah even at the worst part of it.
Mama Mary was with me when I entered the convent, during
my postulancy, and when I left the convent . . . and I can say
that indeed, she is the best intercessor when discerning.
FiSH V.19.02 | 2021 A Saint's story 23

ST. BERNADETTE SOUBIROUS (PART 2)

Story by Gina J. Verdolaga
Art by Mike Cortes

A “lady in white” appeared to

young Bernadette Soubirous
at a grotto in Lourdes, France.

Mademoiselle,
kindly tell me
who you are.

I am the
Immaculate
Conception.

Bernadette informed Fr.

Peyramale who the Lady was.
He knew Bernadette didn’t
understand what “Immaculate
Conception” meant. He realized
the young girl really saw a
divine vision, who asked that
we repent and pray for the The Bishop asked a
conversion of sinners. commission to investigate
the eighteen apparitions.
A chapel was then approved
for construction.

Bernadette endured questions from media, the

interest of devotees, and scorn from doubters.

You won’t earn from

medals and pictures of
you being sold for ten
sous.

You have an offer to

speak in Paris. You will
be paid for it.
I wish to
remain poor.
I am not a merchant.
My picture is ten sous?
That’s all I’m worth!
FiSH V.19.02 | 2021 24

Bernadette was brought to the

Sisters of Nevers to protect
her from public scrutiny.

In the convent, she was considered “a little

stupid.” She wasn’t fit for manual work
because her health was frail. The Bishop told
her that her assignment was to pray.

Bernadette's ailments were not

healed at the grotto. She knew it
was not for her because the Lady
told her she would die young.

Holy Mary, Mother of

God, pray for me, a
poor sinner.

A multitude of people
came to pay their
She passed away on April 16, 1879. respects, touching
Bernadette’s body with
medals, rosaries, and
even tools of their trade
(scissors, thimbles, hilts
of soldiers’ swords).
FiSH V.19.02 | 2021 25

In the following years, more pilgrims visited the grotto. News of healing
miracles spread, and an appeal for Bernadette’s canonization began.

But Mother Therese Vauzuo, the Mistress of Novices, believed

Bernadette was just a vain and simple girl who did not deserve her fame.

Mother Vazou, we
wish to bring up the
matter of Sister
Bernadette.

Do not even mention

her name in my
presence. Wait till I
am dead.

When Bernadette’s body was eventually exhumed thirty

years after her burial, her body was found incorrupt.
Her beautiful face is preserved in wax and she lies at
the Chapel of Saint Gidard in Nevers.

Bernadette Soubirous was canonized

by Pope Pius XI on December 8, 1933. Her
feast days are April 16 and February 18.
THE END.