Escolar Documentos
Profissional Documentos
Cultura Documentos
Basilan Bishop Martin Jumoad time of President Aquino’s until 2013 and appoint officers- measure pushing for the post- Lower House while Senate Bill
warned Aquino of a repeat of mother (1986-1992), there were in-charge (OIC) in the meantime, ponement of the ARMM polls No. 2756 is still being deliberated
Bishop Martin Jumoad
the “chaos” during the term of so many conflicts and tensions he said. and its synchronization with the by senators. (CBCPNews)
“is not about religion” but “about rights.” table work to educate these kids,” he said.
But Figura said the CBCP is speaking on CEAP has 1,194 members, which include
“religious point of view” as a basic right 30 universities, 101 graduate schools, 240
stated in the preamble of the Constitution, colleges, 1,070 high schools, 592 elementary
which is making a reference to God. and 596 pre-elementary schools.
“It may be the God of us Christians, Some of the prominent Catholic schools in
maybe the Allah of our Muslim brothers the country are Ateneo de Manila University,
and sisters, the Buddha of the Buddhist, or University of Santo Tomas, De La Salle Uni-
WBO welterweight champion and Saranggani Rep. Manny Pacquiao and President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines
anybody transcendental to other religions,” Nereo Odchimar together with the members of the CBCP Permanent Council face reporters to explain their position against the controversial versity, San Carlos University, St. Paul Uni-
Issue / A6 Reproductive Health (RH) bill during a news conference at the CBCP Headquarters in Intramuros, Manila, May 17, 2011. versity and San Beda College. (CBCPNews)
Stop VIP treatment in jails – bishop SPECIAL treatment given by troversy surrounding homicide look into and resolve the cur-
Pope appoints
prison officials to high-profile convict and former Batangas rent controversy at the national
inmates must be stopped imme-
diately, a Catholic bishop said.
Gov. Antonio Leviste who was
caught in and out of the National
penitentiary.
“The existing system or subcul-
new bishop of
Puerto Princesa Bishop Pedro Bilibid Prison. ture inside the prison should re-
Arigo told Church-run Radyo
Veritas in an interview that no
matter what they are, inmates
The bishop said he had been to
the national penitentiary many
times and some inmates are
ally be investigated,” said Arigo.
The CBCP official also said
that the issue involving Levite
Kalibo diocese
should be treated equally along being treated “differently” com- shows the problem of corruption THE Holy Father
with others in the jail. pared to ordinary prisoners. in the justice system even under on Wednesday has
“(Authorities) should stop re- He said there are those con- the present administration. appointed Bishop Jose
ally VIP treatment (in jails),” said fined in air-conditioned cottages. He said that as long as an Corazon Tala-oc as
Arigo, who heads the Commis- “You really need to be rich to inmate has the political influ- the new head of the
sion on Prison Pastoral Care of avail those privileges… you ence or money to bribe the Diocese of Kalibo in
Aklan province.
File photo
the Catholic Bishops’ Conference must have money,” said Arigo. police or jail authorities, “the
of the Philippines. The bishop then called on VIP treatment is guaranteed.” A native of Aklan,
Bishop Pedro Arigo Arigo was reacting to the con- the government to seriously (CBCPNews) Tala-oc was the bishop
of the island province
uncovers Lagman’s
His appointment
was announced at
the Vatican on May
misleading claims of
25 at 12:00 noon
File photo
amended provisions
Bishop Jose Corazon Tala-oc
A staunch advocate
of the environment, Tala-oc people to become “faithful
has been very vocal against s t e w a r d s o f c r e a t i o n ”
IN what started out as a seemingly House Bill 4244. mining activities in Romblon asserting that taking care
one-sided debate between a neophyte Sarangani Rep. Emmanuel “Manny” province, especially in scenic of the environment is a
and a veteran legislator, with the Pacquiao queried the bill’s principal Sibuyan island. moral intergenerational
newcomer looking hesitant in some author on the provision regarding a I n a m u l t i - s e c t o r a l responsibility.”
instances, Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman two-child ideal family size, saying that gathering held in Born on June 16, 1950,
ended up admitting to the newbie that such a measure may lead to a popula- Romblon during the 16th in Tagas, Aklan, Tala-oc
certain provisions of the Reproductive tion drop in the country. anniversary of Mining Act finished his philosophy at
Health (RH) Bill he had been claiming Lagman replied that the bill’s au- 1995, Tala-oc rallied the Kalibo / A6
amended were, in fact, still intact in Pacquiao / A6 Illustration by Bladimer Usi
Christian, Muslim, and Jewish “We believe the United States, They renewed their call for
leaders, they praised the presi- in coordination with the Quartet, President Obama to visit Jerusa-
dent’s “strong affirmation … that should continue to respond care- lem, in order to offer “urgently
peace is possible” between Israel fully to the new Palestinian unity needed, strong, sustained U.S.
and the Palestinians. In a May 19 agreement,” the bishops stated. leadership” to Israeli and Pales-
speech, President Obama called They urged the president not to tinian leaders. (CNA)
Nobel nominee to be beatified Sunday Human rights’ report lists Vatican for failure to protect
children
Amnesty International named the Vatican in its annual report
on human rights’ concerns for not sufficiently complying
SALVADOR DA BAHIA, Bra- the Mother of God, where she translated into great social works. improvised hospital.
zil, May 19, 2011—Sister Dulce took the name Sister Dulce. Sister Dulce founded the St. Thus began the history of with international mandates on protecting children from
Lopes Pontes is the most ad- One of the inspirations for Francis Union of Workers. Then another of her foundations: St. abuse. It marked the first time the Vatican was named in the
mired woman in the history of her vocation was the life of St. she began to shelter sick persons Anthony’s Hospital, which was group’s Annual Report on the state of human rights around
Brazil, according to a newspaper Thérèse of in aban- opened officially in May of 1959, the world. The 2011 Annual Report covered human rights
of São Paulo. This Sunday, the the Child doned with 150 beds; now it cares for in 157 countries, looking particularly at rights abuses and
nun who died less than 20 years Jesus. “I houses 3,000 patients daily. restrictions and at failures to implement international rights’
ago will be recognized as Blessed think I am of Salva- Today her foundations are agreements. The report, released May 13, said, “The Holy See
Dulce. like the lit- dor da known as Sister Dulce’s Social did not sufficiently comply with its international obligations
“Every saint is an example tle love of Bahia. Works, with the acronym OSID relating to the protection of children,” specifically regarding
of Christ, as was Sister Dulce. my small When (Obras Sociais Irmã Dulce). It sex abuse. (CNS)
She dedicated herself every day heart, that t h e y functions as a private charitable
throughout her life to the poor no matter w e r e entity under Brazilian law. Aide: Many bishops already have abuse guidelines
and the suffering,” said Cardi- how much evict- In the last 30 years of her life, The Vatican is asking Episcopal conferences to turn in guide-
nal Geraldo Majella Agnelo, the love it has, ed, she Sister Dulce’s health declined. lines for handling sexual abuse by clergy, but many nations
retired archbishop of her native it is little moved She had only 30% of her re- already have such guidelines in force, the Vatican spokesman
Salvador da Bahia, when he for such her shel- spiratory capacity. In 1990 she clarified. Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi, director of the
learned of her beatification. a great ter to an began to worsen and was hos- Vatican press office, presented three documents from the Con-
The cardinal will represent G o d , ” old fish pitalized for 16 months. While gregation for the Doctrine of the Faith today, in which broad
Benedict XVI in presiding over wrote Sis- market, there she received a visit from principles are given to bishops to assist them in establishing
the beatification of this 1988 ter Dulce but the John Paul II, with whom she their own guidelines. The Vatican has asked every Episcopal
Nobel Peace Prize nominee, who w h e n munici- had had a private audience 10 conference to turn in their guidelines within a year’s time, by
was twice visited by another she en- pality years earlier. the end of May 2012. (Zenit)
blessed, Pope John Paul II (in tered the obliged She was transferred to St. An-
1980 and 1991). convent. her to thony’s convent where she died Layman elected to secretary position in Vatican
www.saints.sqpn.com
The future nun was born in Like “St. leave on March 13, 1992. Thousands of dep’t
1914 and baptized Maria Rita. Thérèse, I that site men and women in conditions A Uruguayan with four decades of experience at the Vatican
Her mother died when she was think that too. of extreme poverty gathered for has just made history. He’s the first non-cleric to be chosen
6 and her aunts brought her up. the Child T h e a last farewell before her mortal by the Pope as the “number two man” in a Vatican depart-
At 13, one of her aunts took her Jesus is o n l y remains. ment. Dr. Guzmán Carriquiry was appointed as secretary of
to see the poorest areas of the pleased with all little acts of love place she could receive more Last year her body was taken the Pontifical Commission for Latin America at noon on May
city, an event that awakened her no matter how small they are.” than 70 people who needed to the Church of the Immaculate 14. He replaces the commission’s vice president Archbishop
great sensitivity. Thus, at 18 she medical care was the chicken Conception of the Mother of Jose Octavio Ruiz Arenas, who just a day earlier was named
entered the Missionary Sisters of Love turned into works coop of the convent where she God, where it was found to be secretary of the Pontifical Council for Promoting the New
the Immaculate Conception of Her little acts of love were lived. The coop soon became an incorrupt. (Zenit) Evangelization. (CNA)
Cardinals join call to scrap anti-Catholic British succession law Pope’s 2012 World Peace Day theme focuses on young
people
In building a world of peace and justice, the Catholic Church
SYDNEY, Australia, May 19, 2011—Cardinal said that “in principle” he supports reform- in the 1688 “glorious revolution” by support- must listen to the ideas and hopes of young people and offer
George Pell of Sydney is backing calls to ing the law on royal succession to allow ers of the Protestant William and Mary. Mary them educational opportunities that will strengthen their
scrap the 310 year-old law banning Catholics Catholics to become king or queen or marry- was the eldest Protestant daughter of James ability to work for the common good, the Vatican said. As
from the British throne. ing the heir to the throne. However, he also II and was married to William of Orange, part of the church’s efforts, Pope Benedict XVI has chosen
“I would welcome a change,” the Austra- says the decision would have to be approved who later became William III. “Educating young people in justice and peace” to be the
lian cardinal told CNA. by all Commonwealth countries—hence the In recent years, the Act has effected several theme for the church’s 2012 celebration of World Peace Day.
His comments come just hours after Scottish significance of Cardinal Pell’s opinion. members of the British royal family. World Peace Day is Jan. 1 each year. A papal message on
Cardinal Keith Patrick O’Brien of St. Andrews “I would welcome a change. It is not a first In 2001, Lord Nicholas Windsor, the the theme is sent in December to heads of state around the
& Edinburgh claimed in a BBC documentary order issue, and there is no great urgency youngest son of the Duke and Duchess of world. (CNS)
that the 1701 Act of Settlement was fuelling about it, but I anticipate that the law will Kent, permanently forfeited his right to the
anti-Catholicism in his country. He describes be changed at some time,” the Australian royal succession by converting to Catholi- All aboard the Caritas Express
the law as “the country’s shame.” archbishop said. cism. The Caritas Express will bring passengers from Vatican City
Just a few weeks ago the manager of the “It would certainly be welcomed in Aus- In 2008, Autumn Kelly, the Canadian fian- to Orvieto on May 21, marking the 60th anniversary of the
predominantly Catholic-supported soccer tralia.” cee of the Queen’s grandson Peter Philips, foundation of Caritas Internationalis. The railroad border be-
club, Glasgow Celtic was assaulted during At present, there is no similar prohibi- converted from Catholicism to Anglicanism, tween Italy and the Vatican will be opened for this unique trip,
a match by an opposing supporter and sent tion on the British royal family marrying thus preserving her husband’s chances of which aims to raise public awareness of the aid agency’s work
a parcel bomb in the mail. Arrests have fol- members of other faiths such as Islam or becoming king. and collect funds for its humanitarian projects. The journey
lowed each incident. Judaism, or those who profess to be agnostic Today’s news coincides with Queen will end in Orvieto, famous for the Corporal of Bolsena—a
Meanwhile, Cardinal O’Brien has revealed or atheist. Elizabeth making the first trip to Ireland by Eucharistic miracle housed in the Duomo cathedral—where
that he received a bullet in the mail prior to The Act was originally passed to prevent a reigning U.K. monarch to predominately Caritas’ 19th General Assembly will be held from May 22-27.
the September 2010 papal visit to Scotland. the descendants of the Catholic King James II Catholic Ireland since it gained indepen- (Zenit)
U.K. Prime Minister David Cameron has from ascending the throne. He was deposed dence in 1922. (CNA/EWTN News)
News Features
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 15 No. 11
May 23 - June 5, 2011
A3
www.zimbio.com
of slavery, in fact, are emerging in rector for the Pontifical Mission or social, hiding or passing over
our time,” the pope said. Societies in the United States, the transcendent dimension of
“This is true in the so-called said U.S. Catholics continue to the salvation offered by God in
First World, which is well-off be the most generous donors to Christ.” (CNS)
Multi-sectoral group hits DENR’s has Truth as its light, Love as its propel- justice at the universal level.
ling force, and Justice as its objective, (cf. Such a justice, he said, cannot be
n. 209), a vision of social doctrine, which achieved by “leaning on mere social
EDITORIAL
Official admission
the RH Bill
In other words: do away with a graft-and-corruption ridden
government. Free the streets of hoodlums and criminals. Get rid
of a dysfunctional justice system. Do remedial moves to lessen Tidbits
at least the foreign debt. Vanquish the disunity of ideology
and dynasty. Undertake big capital investments especially
in agriculture. Reconcile labor and capital for their greater IT is in the midst of doctrinal interaction that it generates, the truth which the Church believes it presupposes that there are
productivity and mutual benefit. Hold on the reigns of economic confusion and uncertainties, social behavior that it spawns, can set man free from the cruel no other laws, except human
development with decisiveness and creativity. like that which has recently been the human and humane values grips of the nihilistic and myo- laws, that should govern man’s
unleashed by the introduction that it shapes and develops, pic world view. Commitment, individual and social conduct
Admittedly, these are very tall orders. But they have to begin of the RH Bill injecting into the the ethical standard of human therefore, to the study of theol- and behaviour. Natural laws,
somewhere. Otherwise, this country and its people are condemned consciousness of our people actions that it presses on our ogy is not only a noble task, but transcendental laws, Divine
to what they have been before, what they are now and what they will new belief system and one- minds and consciences is mind also a priority in our globalized laws, do not count. It is on this
be—in command of destitution and in tenure of mendicancy. dimensional programs of family boggling ― it goes beyond the world. ground that the Church opposes
life, sexuality, and reproductive proportion of what we have The RH Bill in its attempt to the Bill.
health that the voice of theology learned in schools, colleges, and make a headway to legislation Meantime, in its fight against
is badly sought after. The voice universities. The whirl of the is presenting a document that the passage of RH Bill, the
of the teaching Church may be world has become so compli- packages a set of laws, organi- Church is falsely accused of
A Question of Development Models there and can be heard distinctly, cated that we in the Church are zational set up, programs of ac- imposing its faith on other reli-
but in-depth study of theology is dizzily panting to catch up with tivities that would for its goal set gious denominations. It is true
needed to clarify issues so that what we are going to offer to our the Philippines in a better shape that the Catholic Church has
ECONOMIC recovery will be slow and more painful than realities can be shifted from per- people in order for them to pur- economically. Its philosophy is: no desire to impose its belief on
is yet popularly perceived. Not only is this a currency and ceptions and assumptions. sue developmental goals that, in economic prosperity of a nation other religions. But, its insistence
banking crisis or a property bubble that must be weathered. We are living in a global- the words of Benedict XVI in his in its opposition to the Bill is
becomes possible only through
More profoundly, the present economic situation, replicated in
ized world whose borders are Encyclical “Caritas in Veritate”, control of births and population. perceived to be such.
many other parts of Asia, has raised serious questions about the
viability of development models. pierced through and through ‘possess a more humane and To advance this kind of legisla- It is precisely here that we
by the technology of modern humanizing value’. tion, it makes assumptions that need the voice of theology ― that
Already in 1995 questions were raised in Malaysia about a so- communications. As people are Theology is precisely there run counter to the teaching of is, how does the Church stands
called “Asian” development model that has as core elements brought closer to each other, the for the service of this social the Catholic Church. For one, Tidbits / A7
high economic growth sustained indefinitely, managed and/or
guided by omnipresent government officials, financed by foreign
debt and implemented by cheap labor. Moreover, Westerners Sr. Mary Pilar Verzosa, RGS
denounced “Asian” values that they associate today with crony
Innocence lost
capitalism, widespread corruption, banking irregularities, and
lack of transparency.
On the other hand, the dominant “Western” model emphasizes
Love Life
free trade and encourages competition, especially under the
umbrella of globalization. The idea is to produce higher and
HER family named her Princess but she said mother were into the prostitution trade. tion of a married man to live-in with him
better quality returns than one’s competitors, to be open to foreign
investments, protect property rights, liberalize regulations, she was treated as a slave. One evening, when A couple of years later, her grandmother – practically a housemaid-housewife for
privatize government business corporations and have minimal she was age twelve, her grandmother told her came again to fetch her and said they would him. Deprived of a father and seeking for
government intervention. Unfortunately, those countries that had to get dressed as they were going out. Little live in a bigger house. Indeed, it was a big love, she did fall in love with him even if all
rushed to embrace this model have suffered most in the crisis. did she know that she was going to be taken house with many rooms—all occupied with she got in return was his insulting remarks
to a bar. At eleven o’clock that night, she was young women who go out at night to work and sexual demands whenever he wanted
Yet it is clear that the best examples of the Asian model, Hong told to sit at a table with an elderly man and in the bars and clubs around the town. She them. In the depths of her depression, she
Kong and Singapore, topped the world in the 1997 Index of just chat with him. Her grandmother assured was often alone at night until dawn when remembered a friend of the family who had
Economic Freedom by the Heritage Foundation and Wall Street. her that she will just be around and she will they would start arriving back. One evening, helped them go to school many years ago.
There is indeed an “East Asian miracle” which got the “basics” not be hurt. Also, to make sure she accepts the 25 year old boyfriend of one of the ladies, He generously accompanied her to Baguio
right. These include low inflation, high levels of domestic whatever money he gives her. She said she came to that house. They chatted for a while, to seek for assistance. He had once seen a
saving, heavy investment in education and openness to foreign respectfully answered his questions about then he forced himself on her. He raped her. poster in the Cathedral announcing help
technology. Experts tell us that East Asian economies have been herself, then, when he stood up to go, he did She reported the incident to her grandmother to women in crisis. Luckily, the Women’s
mixing the formula of Asian values and market capitalism and hand over to her a one thousand peso bill— and parents, and they did have the man put Pastoral Counseling Center was open and
have been reaping considerable success.
the biggest amount she had ever seen. to jail. But from then on, at the age of 14, she the counselor there referred them to one
Still, many economists claim that development models be they The next day in school, she fainted due decided she might as well join the women in of the convents. The Sisters in that convent
Western or Asian, with their variants and combinations, tend to to lack of sleep. Her teacher requested her their work, night after night. When her peri- welcomed Princess to work there while wait-
produce the same inequality of income, growth disproportionately classmates to escort her in a tricycle back od got delayed, the women accompanied her ing for the school year to open. And then
against the poor, persistence of poverty and increased possibilities home. When she pulled out the blue bill to where they get abortion. The following they could get a scholarship for her so she
of social conflict. “Trickle down economics”, another name for to pay, her classmates exclaimed how rich week, after the bleeding was over, she was can go back to school. However, she was so
“growth economics” inevitably creates inequality of income and she was. In heart, she felt shame and in her back to “work”. She said her only consola- confused and depressed that she attempted
wealth. We have yet to see a version of what some economists mind, she thought—“If they only knew how tion was that she provided clothes and toys suicide. She was rushed to the hospital for
call “trickle up economics” where the fruits of economic growth she got that amount!” Her mother accepted and better food for her younger half brothers treatment. Upon discharge, the Sisters said
are universally and equally shared. In the final analysis present the cash very quickly—no questions asked as and sisters. Her pain was that her mother they cannot handle her case, so they referred
development models are based on a vision of society that remains to how she got it. On her part, she was happy and step father never even asked where and her to Welcome House Good Shepherd Sis-
materialistic if not consumerist. that she was able to contribute to the food how she earned the money, sometimes even ters for recovery and rehabilitation.
Pastoral Exhortation on the Philippine Economy, 1998 that day. It was only a couple of years later demanding cash from her. Princess has been staying in Welcome
that she found out that her grandmother and Tired of that life, she accepted the invita- Love Life / A7
File photo
would be approved. will campaign for civil dis- the HB 4244,” wrote Tandag The decision was made after the use of contraceptives, even
Tandag Bishop Nereo obedience and threatened not Bishop Nereo Odchimar, CBCP the regular meeting of the CBCP if he will be excommunicated. Bishop Nereo Odchimar
Odchimar, CBCP President, to pay taxes in case the bill is President. Permanent Council at its office (CBCPNews)
said calls by some prelates passed.
File photo
In a pastoral statement, Vil- believe in with utmost charity, brethren to remember that the in beliefs. We are Catholics in But the prelate said the issue
legas said it is not the Church’s courtesy and respect for one unity of the Church does not prayer. We are Catholics with belongs to the realm of “faith not
intention to “add flame to the another,” he said. only pertain to the acceptance of one moral life,” he said. Soc / A7 Archbishop Socrates Villegas
Pacquiao / A1 Kalibo / A1
thors had already removed the two- on mandatory sex education had also Hindi mo yata narinig dahil nag-eensayo already formally approved the Com- the St. Pius X Seminary in Roxas City
child ideal, adding that it would take a been amended. ka para sa laban mo,” Lagman countered. mittee Report. and theology at the University of Sto.
century before a feared “demographic “Wala na nga pong obligasyon na “Incomplete ang impormasyong ibinigay Pacquiao then asked Lagman by Tomas’s Central Seminary.
winter” would set in. ito, tinanggal na nga ito,” the Albay sa iyo. Hindi ito sapilitan.” what rules these supposed amend- He was ordained a priest on
After expressing his concern over the congressman said. “Walang basehan In an unexpected turn in the line ments were accepted, as the period of April 9, 1979. Pope John Paul II
bill’s P3 billion proposed annual bud- ‘yung apprehension na walang makaka- of questioning, the pound-for-pound amendments were yet to be reached. appointed him to the episcopacy
get, the world boxing champion then graduate. Exempted sa pag-attend, fighter then asked the solon from Albay Lagman was unable to provide an on June 11, 2003, and was installed
focused on mandatory sex education, exempted din sa pagkuha ng periodic why there were amendments to the bill answer. as 4th Bishop of Romblon on Sept.
which the bill requires for students tests. Ang mga estudyante po ay makaka- when they were still in the period of In other words, the so-called amend- 3, 2003.
from Grade 5 to 4th Year high school in graduate.” interpellations. Once a bill has passed ments that Lagman and the bill’s co- Tala-oc will take over the post vacated
all schools as well as for out-of-school The Sarangani congressman then the committee level, amendments may authors have been insisting are still by Bishop Jose Romeo Lazo who in July
youth. brought up the question of whether only be proposed and accepted during proposed amendments. The current 21, 2009, was appointed bishop of San
“Puwede po bang tumanggi ang isang or not employers will be required to the period of amendments that comes version of House Bill 4244—which Jose de Antique.
estudyante sa pamamagitan ng kaniyang provide condoms and other artificial after the period of interpellations. contains provisions on mandatory Since then, Kalibo has been under
mga magulang?” the solon asked, airing contraceptives to their employees, as Lagman responded by relating reproductive health and sex education the care of Fr. Ulysses Dalida, who
his concern that more students will be stipulated by the RH bill. the March 22 deviation he and ACT- (Sec. 16), ideal family size (Sec. 20), and was appointed administrator of the
unable to graduate from high school He expressed concern that this TEACHERS Party List Rep. Antonio employers’ responsibility to provide diocese pending appointment of a
should they miss their sex ed classes. would disregard the religious convic- Tinio carried out in which the proposed RH services to employees (Sec. 21), as new ordinary.
“Ang compulsory sex education ay tions of employers who believe that the amendments were merely voiced out. well on malicious disinformation un- No date yet has been set for the
labag sa Constitution,” he added. measure goes against their beliefs. This took place after the Committee on der “punitive acts” (Sec. 28)—stands. installation of the new bishop.
Lagman replied that the provision “Amended na ang provision na ito. Population and Family Relations had (Diana Uichanco) (CBCPNews)
Diocesan News
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 15 No. 11
May 23 - June 5, 2011
A7
parts from Blauring and Jungwacht, standing about training and training Chiro-JuBla partnership
two of the largest Catholic children and styles; to learn how to establish and Training on different topics will be
youth groups in Switzerland. maintain new groups; and to acquire held on May 19 – 22 in Silang, Cavite for
Pascal Vonlanthen and Erich Schw- skills in conducting creative activities the South and North Luzon regions.
yter, leaders from Jungwacht and Blaur- for children The trainings were arranged as part of
ing or together known as JuBla, arrived Headed by Chiro Regional leaders an existing partnership between Chiro
in Cebu on May 6 to conduct trainings Ninia Jayme and Neil Villaester, par- and JuBla which has a combined mem-
for Chiro leaders. ticipants from Visayas and Mindanao bership of almost 32,000 young people
learned more about organizing camps in Switzerland.
Chiro leaders learn more and crisis management in groups, Starting in 2006, JuBla chose to part-
Thirty-three Filipino youth leaders among others. ner with Chiro Philippines as part of
from Chiro Philippines gathered for Felix said participants enjoyed the ses- its membership in Fédération Interna-
the four-day trainers’ training with the sions, games, and singing moments. tionale des Mouvements Catholiques
theme “Trip Around the World in Four “The Chiro Evening (cultural eve- d’Action Paroissale (FIMCAP). FIMCAP
Days”. ning) was a blast! Most of them came is an international federation of youth
Chiro is a Catholic youth and chil- with full costumes,” she added. movements based in the parishes.
Contributed photo
dren’s group, which has been gathering Held at the St. Louis School, a CICM FIMCAP organizations in Europe
Filipino kids and youth every week for school in Mandaue, Cebu, the train- may choose to partner with organiza-
discussions on topics, games and other ing was positively evaluated by par- tions in African, Latin American or
activities for personal and spiritual ticipants. Felix added that though there Asian countries to facilitate a cultural
growth since 1952. were some unmet expectations, most and technological exchange among the
According to Badette Felix, National participants said that they experienced organizations. (Jandel Posion)
Markings
AROUND 98 Christian and Citing their idealism and
Muslim youth leaders gathered boundless energy, Sattar said
in a spirit of dialogue to discuss young people can become dy-
the prevailing issues in society namic agents of social change.
and their role in promoting good He said they would have to put
governance in the nation. God at the center of their lives
Representing various youth though, to become good Chris- CELEBRATED. Ten religious brothers belonging to the Augustinian
groups, communities, schools tians and Muslims. Province of Sto. Niño de Cebu-Philippines said yes to a life of consecra-
and organizations, the young The youth camp had various tion and service in a simple ceremony of religious profession, vowing
leaders assembled for the 12th activities that included team to follow Jesus closely by living a chaste, poor and obedient life. Reo
Cabahug (Danao City), Peter Cantones, Jr. (Loon, Bohol), Peter John
www.silsilahdialogue.com
Silsilah Solidarity Youth Camp building, camp-fire, camp craft Cardos (Calinog, Iloilo), Christian Funtanars (Gubat, Sorsogon), Ian
(SSYC) held at the Harmony making, film viewing, and sports Geoffrey Kasilag ( Quezon City), Rodel Magin (Roxas City), Wendell
Village Campsite, Sinunuc, Zam- festival which gave participants Allan Marinay (Toledo City), John Ion Miranda ( Manticao, Misamis Ori-
boanga City on May 10-14. the opportunity to interact with ental), Cyril Jeth
Tagalog (Liloan,
With the theme “Youth of one another. Cebu) and Nov.
Today: Leading Good Gover- Sessions and workshops were Melitito Pocholo
nance for Better Society through also given to participants to lead Visda, Jr. (Com-
Dialogue and Peace”, the youth them to reflect more deeply on their appreciation for the gath- essentials in dialogue. postela, Cebu);
made their first
gathering aimed to lead the the meaning of dialogue and ering as it has given proof to Scout Master Jadzen Nahoor simple profes-
youth to become more involved peace as promoted by Silsilah. “the reality that Muslims and Jaji, who has been camp consul- sion of vows of
in the advocacy of good gover- The assembly “aimed to Christians can live together tant for six consecutive years for Chastity, Poverty
nance. strengthen friendship, cama- harmoniously, in simplicity and SSYC, was behind the creative and Obedience
before their Prior
Resource speaker Prof. Alzad raderie and understanding be- can appreciate the differences by implementation of the programs Provincial, Very
Sattar, a young respected Mus- tween Muslims, Christians and accepting each other as brother and activities of the five-day Rev. Fr. Euse-
lim leader in Basilan, spoke on youths of other living faiths in and sisters, as one Family.” summer camp. bio Berdon, OSA
the topic “Youth and Its’Role”, Mindanao through discussion They also learned to appreci- The five-day camp was orga- during the cel-
highlighting the important role of relevant issues in a spirit of ate more profoundly the values nized by SilPeace, a program for
ebration of the
Eucharist on May 15, 2011 at the Sto. Niño de Cebu Mohon Parish.
of the youth effecting change in dialogue.” of discipline, respect, sensitivity, the youth of Silsilah Dialogue In his homily, Fr. Berdon challenged the ten young men to be always
society. The youth leaders expressed love and strong faith which are Movement. (CBCPNews) ready to die for Christ’s sake. He said that to be faithful in the practice
of Christianity in PHL
Augustinian friars, Religious sisters, families, and well wishers attended
the said event.
8 Reasons Why
We Should
Not Pass the
Philippine RH
Bill
By World Youth Alliance
Over Population —A
Such an approach is an unjustifiable affront to the dignity
and capacity of the poor.
The bill also claims to give equal importance to natural and
artificial methods of family planning. This claim does not
hold. While mention is given to natural methods of family
Convenient Lie
planning, no funding is provided for the promotion of these
methods in the budgetary provisions of the bill. Natural
methods rely on investments in the education of women and
increased knowledge, in order to enable women to manage
their health, and make informed decisions. Budgetary
allocations must be inserted to the bill to provide funding
By Leonardo Q. Montemayor Moreover, why isn’t there a stronger push Incidentally, the DOH’s plan is for the training of knowledge-based reproductive health care
for the meaningful settlement of Third World discriminatory. Only 30,000 men have providers, and the promotion of necessary information to
debt, so that countries like the Philippines been targeted for genital invasion through women in order to enable informed choice.
THE so-called problem of overpopulation can free up hundreds of billions of pesos vasectomy by 2015, although the procedure
is a convenient falsehood being peddled by for badly needed schools, health services costs much less — P500.
rich countries to cover up their injustices 2. Maternal Health requires access to healthcare facilities
and food production-related infrastructure, Mass sterilization of women and men – the and reproductive health education, not contraceptives.
against, and to shirk from their obligations among others, and thus register huge most “cost-effective” final solution in the war
to, developing nations. Improved access to basic health care, nutrition, medicines
advances against poverty, hunger, ignorance on poverty? and technology are the additional means by which maternal
In 2009, Ambassador Alistair MacDonald and disease? Our friends in the RH camp say that they
of the European Union expressed support for mortality and morbidity can be reduced and eliminated.
Instead, the Filipino people—particularly want principally to help “couples, parents The mandate of the RH bill to increase obstetric care and
continued assistance to the Philippines, on the the poor—are being seduced with condoms, and individuals”, (married, we hope, as the
condition that our government undertakes skilled birth attendants, is not emphasized in this bill. The
pills and intra-uterine devices (at a cost Philippine Constitution upholds marriage causes of maternal mortality and morbidity are limited:
comprehensive population control. At of billions to their already cash-strapped and the family as the bedrock of society), to
present, some 60% of existing EU aid for hemorrhage, infection, obstructed labor and hypertensive
government) as “essential medicine” that achieve their desired family size. But they disorders. These causes can be significantly addressed
the Philippines is devoted to population will improve their “quality of life”! should realize that the State has no business
management-related programs. through investment in skilled birth attendants, and provision
Our Constitution commands the State to even suggest the desirable number of of health education for women and families.
Mr. MacDonald could have mollified the to protect the life of the unborn from children. Otherwise, the State would infringe
anger felt by self-respecting Filipinos had There is probably no more important step the Philippines
the moment of conception. The 1986 on the fundamental rights of spouses and could take toward improving reproductive health. The
he also underscored the urgent need for Constitutional Commission records clearly parents, and go against deeply held Filipino
greater consumption control by citizens of UNFPA states that three-fourths (¾) of all maternal deaths
show that “conception” starts from the values that children are our “wealth” and not could be averted by the presence of skilled birth attendants.
EU states. union of the male sperm and the female our “liabilities”.
The truth is that many advocates of By contrast, family planning is likely to reduce maternal
egg in the mother. Hence, pills, IUDs and Respected demographers warn that a deaths only by one-third. The RH bill’s current provisions
population control, under the cloak of contraceptives that kill the living, fertilized two-child policy will hasten the decline
“reproductive health” and “family planning”, for maternal care are important, but underdeveloped in
egg are abortifacients. and dying-out of the Philippine population comparison with other parts of the bill.
are concerned not so much to save lives, as to Pro-RH bill advocates insist that they starting around 2020, and undermine the
prevent them. This would mean less pressure oppose abortion. However, many of them viability of our economy and social security
from developing nations to clamor for a fairer 3. It does not protect the rights of conscience of those that
claim that medical science is divided on systems. Ironically, several RH bills pending will be responsible for implementing new measure.
distribution of global wealth and a stop to the when life begins. Assuming arguendo that in Congress seek to establish two as the ideal
profligate consumption of finite resources by All reproductive health care workers should “provide
this is so, every Filipino remains obligated number of offspring. information and educate” and “render medical services”
the developed states. to follow the Constitution. And, why can’t We must therefore guard against efforts
If RH and population control advocates consistent with the new provisions in this bill. This bill does
we give the fertilized ovum the benefit of the by national, local and foreign governments not include measures that protect conscientious objections
truly desire to safeguard the welfare of doubt by protecting it? to foist a radical depopulation policy.
mothers and family members, they should for healthcare workers or institutions that refuse to provide
We are told that a reproductive health This will be attempted through provisions services due to religious or cultural beliefs and practices.
accord the highest priority to fund generation law is crucial to ensuring maternal health, in the RH bills requiring, among others,
and genuine anti-poverty programs through In addition, through state-imposed reproductive health
inasmuch as eleven mothers die daily from sexuality education for youth aged 10-19, curriculum in schools, this bill undermines the rights of
effective socio-economic reforms, balanced complications arising from pregnancy. easier access to affordable or birth control
agro-industrial development and good parents to be the primary educators of their children.
The hidden message is: no pregnancy, no services, sanctions against uncooperative Likewise, denying couples the right to marry without first
governance. death. Ergo, distributing state-subsidized health providers. Ongoing and proposed
But where are their calls on the Organization receiving “adequate instruction” on family planning and
contraception is the easy way to maternal/ programs, such as the Conditional Cash responsible parenthood violates their individual freedom
for Economic Cooperation and Development reproductive health! (Incidentally, shouldn’t Transfer undertaking of the Department of
(OECD) countries to comply with their conscience and discriminates against those who would refuse
maternal health concerns include the Social Welfare and Development should also such training in religious or cultural grounds.
international obligation to allocate 0.7 per prevention of cancer, high blood pressure and be monitored closely.
cent of their gross national product for other known adverse effects of birth control A pell-mell rush into a “contraceptive
the economic development of the Third 4. It violates freedom of expression.
pills and devices on their users?) society” will trigger a tectonic shift and create The bill’s criminalization of speech that “maliciously
World? Surprisingly, defenders of women’s dangerous fissures in our family mores and
Where is the leadership of the United engages in disinformation” (an undefined category) about
“empowerment” have not batted an relationships. There will be profound and the substance or even potential motives behind the RH bill
States and others mainly responsible for eyelash against the Department of Health’s damaging consequences on the stability and
global warming that has been disrupting violates the constitutional right to free speech and expression.
acknowledged goal of two million ligated character of our economic, social, political, The provision should be eliminated in its entirety.
climate, food security and health, especially or sterilized women by 2015. According to cultural and religious institutions.
in developing nations? the DOH, the procedure will cost P1,500 if Hopefully, we and our lawmakers
Poverty, unemployment and hunger are 5. Increase in Contraceptive use leads to higher abortion rate
performed in a government facility. (Under will give adequate consideration to the Dr. Malcolm Potts, abortion and contraceptive advocate and
most severe in rural areas. Yet, developing pending RH legislation, for poor patients, the far-reaching implications of the RH and
countries cannot progress, because the unfair past medical director of the International Planned Parenthood
full cost will be covered by the Philippine Population and Development bills, and Federation, said that “As people turn to contraception, there
trade practices of the EU and other OECD Health Insurance Corporation and/or REJECT them.
member-countries are forcing increasing will be a rise, not a fall, in the abortion rate.” Dr. Judith Bury
government public assistance.) of the Brook Advisory Center chimed in a few years later
numbers of desperate farmers and fisher Large-scale ligation will supposedly (Leonardo Q. Montemayor is the President of the
folk to degrade their local environments just that “There is overwhelming evidence that, contrary to what
promote reproductive health and respect Federation of Free Farmers and Party-List ABA you might expect, the provision of contraception leads to an
to survive the day. Yearly, trade-distorting for each woman’s “inherent right over her or Alyansang Bayanihan ng mga Magsasaka,
agricultural subsidies of the OECD drain their increase in the abortion rate.”
own body”. But, by crippling a woman’s Manggagawang-Bukid at Mangingisda. He The reason for this is twofold: First, contraceptives fail a
public treasuries of about US $300 billion, God-given capacity to create life, aren’t served as Agriculture Secretary in 2001-2002
which is three times the amount of OECD’s certain percentage of the time. A 5% failure rate means that
we destroying the essence of her mother/ and Party-List Representative in the Fourteenth 5% of the couples using a certain method will be pregnant at
“foreign aid” to developing countries. personhood and her dignity? Congress.) the end of the year. Second, the use of contraceptives gives
political leaders engage in double talk formed at fertilization. Second, deemed 4. The Philippines is a sovereign
on what the House Bill 4244 really is bad provisions also are those that seek state. Government should not yield to
intended for and how they would like to establish a mindset and a value- Sheep / B7
to have love, we make ourselves enough to recite the Apostles’ and hazardous to women’s health. By classifying contraceptives
orphans. Creed; we must show that we as essential medicines, the RH Bill allows them to be purchased
are Catholics by living by the and distributed by all national and local hospitals and other
Bring back charity norms of Catholic morality. government health units, thus, making it appear that pregnancy
It is certainly not our intention We are Catholics by creed and is a disease that must be treated.
to add more flame to the fire cult and code. We are Catholics 3. The mandatory education of Grade 5 students on sexuality
but rather to make an appeal in beliefs. We are Catholics in and family planning, as recommended among others by the RH
for the triumph of reason and prayer. We are Catholics with Bill provisions, unnecessarily exposes children to such subject
sobriety. We want to make a plea one moral life. society. Contraception adds world and almost five hundred matter at a very tender age. It violates the constitutional rights
for greater charity even as we In matters of faith, unity; in to the moral corruption of our years in the Philippines has of parents to educate their children in accordance with their
passionately state our positions matters of opinion, liberty; in all society and family. proven itself as a potent agent moral and religious beliefs.
on this divisive issue. At the end things charity! We all want progress for the for holistic authentic human 4. Population control through promotion of the use of
of the heated debates, we will all The issue of contraception nation and for the family of progress and not an obstacle contraceptives, which has been clearly exposed as the
be winners if we proclaim the belongs to the realm of faith not nations. We cannot progress for development. If the Church underlying reason behind the RH Bill, ignores the strong
truths we believe in with utmost opinions. Blessed John Paul II without freedom. Jesus died and issues this stern warning about argument against the claims that our country is overpopulated
charity, courtesy and respect for repeatedly taught us during his rose to set us free. Indeed EDSA the reproductive health bill, it is and that it is the primary cause for the existence of poverty.
one another. Charity is at the papacy that contraception can 1986 taught us that. But freedom not to impede national progress We contend that the main cause of poverty in our country is
heart of the social doctrine of never be justified. We must not must always be grounded in but to protect our nation from corruption, abetted by substandard dispensation of justice due
the Church Pope Benedict XVI make wrong right by the sheer truth. Freedom is not absolute. greater harms and tragedies in to inefficient governance. Furthermore, President Benigno C.
reminds us. In the first letter force of surveys or legislation by Freedom must submit to truth. the generations ahead. On this Aquino himself stated that “Kung walang Corrupt, Walang
of Peter today, he admonishes the majority or the convenience Freedom without truth is only highly divisive issue, the Church Mahirap.”
us today never to be without of some. People in authority who sentimentalism and will only is still a mother protecting her 5. The RH Bill violates the right of health workers to decide
gentleness and reverence. mislead others on the matter of lead to social laxity. children from greater dangers according to one’s conscience by requiring them to be part of
contraception put themselves in In fact, ethical relativism and moral traps which until now certain procedures, such as those leading to abortion, thus
Return to conscience open conflict with the law of God eventually leads to totalitarianism. her beloved children are still forcing them to be unwilling accomplices to an act they believe
We appeal to our Catholic and lead others to sin. Ethical relativism destroys unable to foresee. is immoral and unacceptable according to their religion.
brethren who stand on opposing freedom. Ethical relativism turns We need God if we want
sides on the reproductive health Fight all corruptions freedom into licentiousness. development. Jesus is the only We, the members of the Ladies of Charity-AIC Philippines,
bill to return to the voice of The Church holds close to her Licentiousness and laxity have Way, the only Truth, the only Life cited only a few of several other reasons why we are against
conscience, to state their positions heart the dream of everyone to destroyed many great civilizations for us. There is none like Him. House Bill No. 4244. On the other hand, we strongly recommend
and rebut their opponents always rise out of poverty and live the of history. Those who ignore the We will be lost without Him. that whatever funds proposed to be allocated for RH Bill instead
with charity. Today’s second fullness of life. Pope Paul VI mistakes of history are doomed to Ignoring Him and setting Him be used for the promotion of health care by:
reading is a call for clarity of correctly pointed out to us that repeat them. aside in pursuing progress we
conscience beyond reproach. “the causes of underdevelopment do only at our own peril. 1. Increasing the budget for more efficient operation of
The moral conscience is man’s are not primarily of the material Church as mother From the Cathedral of Saint existing Government Hospitals and Health Centers, providing
sanctuary through which the order. They lie above all in the will, We plead with our officials John the Evangelist, May 24, the necessary medicines and medical equipment for the use
voice of God is heard, that voice in the mind and, even more so, in in government and our friends 2011, Feast of Mary Help of of indigent patients, free of charge.
that tells us to embrace what “the lack of brotherhood among in media to look at the Church Christians. 2. Constructing more Government hospitals and Health
is good and reject what is evil. individuals and peoples”. In as a partner in the mission of Centers especially in rural areas.
However, conscience is not the other words, the greater cause of development. The Catholic +SOCRATES B. VILLEGAS 3. Training a work force in the Barangay level for health care
ultimate tribunal of morality. underdevelopment is corruption Church throughout its two Archbishop of Lingayen and sanitation services.
Conscience must be formed in of the soul and corruption of thousand year history in the Dagupan 4. Increasing the salaries and benefits of government health
care workers particularly doctors, nurses, midwives and
The Risen Lord lives on in the Church Sixth Sunday of Easter – Year A (John 14:15-21) May 29, 2011
By Msgr. Lope C. Robre- you, we wish the developing community is in communion
dillo, SThD to reiterate Christian with the Risen Lord. The
our expression community to Risen Lord lives in the Church
of affection incorporate because the Holy Spirit is there.
WHEN the late Archbishop and loyalty to them fully into But quite apart from being
Antonio Franco, Apostolic him.” the fellowship, present, the community shares
Nuncio to the Philippines, The central this implies the life of the Risen Lord, who
visited the Diocese of Borongan, message of that local shares the life of the Father.
the people were too happy Easter is that churches For this reason, the Church
and enthusiastic to meet him. Jesus is alive! cannot be experiences the continuing
Indeed, all the barangays and But if he cannot isolated from action of God among men. The
towns that dot the around 200- be found among Rome, even as Father is revealed by Jesus and
kilometer stretch on Eastern the dead, where the expanding his saving-presence is shared
Samar welcomed him with is he? Where do church in Judea through the Holy Spirit. That is
arches, streamers, and standing we encounter and Samaria why the Church is an icon of the
parade, with men and women, him? In today’s cannot severe Trinity: the saving work of God
old and young alike, waving Gospel, Jesus itself from the Father, the Son and the Holy
WHATEVER
Bishop Pat Alo
ENCOUNTERS
‘Conversion in 3D’
THE present fiery debate on the RH Bill At first this affirmation may be hard as a young student, was filled with the
has triggered a time bomb that sadly to accept and understand. But as one noble ideal of helping others. When she
may gravely polarize Christians who are discovers what Abby went through, one first met Planned Parenthood she was quite
either against the Bill or in favor of it. realizes that common here doesn’t refer reluctant to volunteer because she says: “I
There is hope, however, that this on-going to simple intellectual concessions made didn’t like the thought of appearing to be
moral issue may also help both sides to
sincerely dialogue and galvanize unity in
their convictions that would further serve
by one side or the other. Moreover, it
can never mean compromising objective
moral truths –providentially created for
pro-abortion, no matter what. I love babies
and family, and I wanted to be thought of
as someone who was pro-family.”
Obedience to God
society and especially the family.
Perhaps, Abby Johnson’s eight-year
long journey—from being a student-
the ultimate good of man’s unchangeable
nature– that do not depend on the arbitrary
views, feelings or situations that persons
This uneasiness, however, was resolved
when she was candidly informed of the
organizations primary objective: “[the]
comes before
volunteer to becoming the Director of an
efficiently run model clinic of Planned
Parenthood—towards conversion may
involved on either side may nurture.
By common we mean the individual’s
openness to the truth about the sacredness
goal at Planned Parenthood is to make
abortion rare. Women need to know
their options so they can avoid unwanted
obedience to man
inspire persons with a sincere heart to of human life and the dignity of the person. pregnancy.” This was elaborated by AMID the entire controversy on the Reproductive Health bill,
finally find the truth. She says: “In all likelihood, as you look further stating “that Planned Parenthood the main consideration of the Church is that we respect God’s
In her page-gripping book unPlanned, through the fence (referring to the iron was the leader in providing community laws as regards respect for the life of human beings, which
Abby powerfully reveals the various stages fence around the clinic), you see faulty education about birth control. (…) how as you all know is the very first right of man. Of course, it’s
that led to her discovery of the splendor of thinking and harmful behavior on the other many abortions could be avoided with not just respecting the life that is existing but it implies also
the truth. One cannot help but be attracted side. Here’s my question for you: are you only simple information. Because Planned that we respect the normal outcome of life as result of the
to the sincerity of her quest for truth. ready to look through the fence and see Parenthood made birth control available male and female sexual relationships. If we block nature’s
Perhaps, one demonstration of her sincerity goodness, compassion, generosity, and to women, thousands and thousands of normal trend through artificial devices we go in a direction
is being able to discern that in both sides self-sacrifice on the other side?” abortions weren’t required. But when that brings us close to self-destruction or extinction.
(the Pro-life and Pro-choice) there are I do not intend to discuss here Abby’s women really did need an abortion, she That is the reason why the Church opposes the artificial
actually good and bad points. intriguing and enlightening arguments. said, the organization’s clinics were vital to methods of birth control as being opposed to God’s will and
She reflects: “To this day I have friends Perhaps, this will be for another moment. their safety. (…) Caring for women in crisis design. “God blessed them, saying to them, “Be fruitful,
on both sides of this polarizing debate. We For now, I will give a brief narration of is what [the organization] is all about.” multiply, fill the earth and conquer it.” (Gen. 1:28). We
all long for a story that shows that our side her conversion in 3D. Hopefully, our Abby found herself at home because of must endeavor to follow God’s laws and decrees faithfully,
is right and good, and their side is wrong conversion in the truth will be along a less her sincere desire to help others, especially otherwise we risk falling under God’s anger and punishment.
and bad, don’t we? But I testify that there dramatic and arduous path than the one women who needed access to the right St. Paul describes it this way: “it is a dreadful thing to fall
is good and right and wrong on both sides God had opened her to follow. information and safe medical procedures. into the hands of the living God” (Heb. 10:31). Remember
of the fence. And even more shocking—we Later on, however, she would confess history and consider how God has punished those who dared
have far more in common with the other *** after her conversion that what may have to violate His laws and decrees.
side than we might imagine.” 1D: Noble Youthful Ideals – Her heart, 3D / B7
Social Concerns
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 15 No. 11
May 23 - June 5, 2011
B7
8 Reasons / B3 Risen / B6 3D / B6
8. There has never been a direct link charismatic necessarily implies is the unconsciously led her to volunteer was the pieces together. I couldn’t escape kicking, as if trying to move away
connecting high population with high observance of the commandment of not only her desire to help women in the thought that this organization that from the probing invader. As the
poverty rates. love, which is the indwelling of the crisis. It was also to help them prevent had given me my career would soon cannula pressed in, the baby began
Correlation is not causation. It is Holy Spirit. In fact, in today’s Gospel, choosing a choice hidden deep inside be in the late-term abortion business. struggling to turn and twist away. It
short-sighted to think of declining the presence of the Father is linked her, one which he regretted and tried to My dilemma was deep and profound. seemed clear to me that the fetus could
population growth as a goal in of itself. with the commandment of love: “If forget: she already had two abortions I was finding it increasingly hard to feel the cannula and did not like the
Population control, as an economic you love me and obey the commands prior to becoming part of Planned justify what I now saw as Planned feeling. And then the doctor’s voice
policy, has proven to be unsustainable. I give you, I will ask the Father and he Parenthood. Parenthood’s money-first attitude broke through, startling me.
Across Europe and Asia, countries that will give you another Paraclete to be 2D: Eye-opening Commitment – toward abortion, especially late-term “Beam me up, Scotty, he said
saw steep declines in fertility in the past with you always: the Spirit of Truth” Her outstanding performance as a abortions.” lightheartedly to the nurse. He was
generation are now bracing themselves (John 14:15-16). volunteer gradually earned Abby 3D: Ultrasound assisted abortion – telling her to turn on the suction—in
for the future consequences of an aging In contemporary theological numerous promotions. Finally, she One often wonders why God would an abortion the suction isn’t turned on
population, when a large number of reflection, the Church is viewed as a was given a very important job of allow so much time to pass before until the doctor feels he has the cannula
elderly can no longer be supported Church of Communion, and there is becoming a clinic director. During her some realizes that what he or she is in exactly the right place.”
by the smaller and younger working no doubt that today’s Gospel provides career as director, her clinic became doing is morally wrong. Abby’s eyes
class. During the 1970s and 1980s, a solid basis for such a theology. a model for other clinics both for its saw the truth in 3D when the lack ***
Singapore instituted an aggressive two- In the Church, the members are in efficiency and dedication, but above of manpower required her to help God indeed has strange ways of
child policy, which led to a situation communion with the Trinitarian God all for its financial viability. It was out in an abortion of a 13 week-old drawing people towards the light
of labor shortages and the difficulty of and with one another. In practice, this financially self-sufficient because it baby. of his truth and mercy. Abby’s
supporting an aging population. In an implies that the love of God dwells in provided services for women who Abby narrates: “At first, the baby conversion aptly demonstrates this.
effort to recover, Singapore now pursues the community and is shared among chose to abort. Now performing an didn’t seem aware of the cannula. It The arguments, the means and the
a pro-fertility policy. the members. On the other hand, the abortion was not exactly a cheap gently probed the baby’s side, and for consequences of what she had first
In the case of Hong Kong, the country’s members are assured of the presence procedure. a quick second I felt relief. Of course, sincerely believed and supported
dense population has had no debilitating of the Trinity by their observance of But Planned Parenthood’s focus I thought. The fetus doesn’t feel pain. are very similar to what many of the
effects on its economic development. the love-commandment. Their love for changed when government funding I had reassured countless women of Reproductive Health Bill proponents
Hong Kong has experienced a great one another is a sign that the Trinity for their services dwindled. This this as I’d been taught by Planned are now saying.
economic boom and high levels of dwells in the Church. Which means became another major conversion Parenthood. The fetal tissue feels Let us pray, without judging
economic prosperity largely due to a that it is not enough to view the Church point for Abby. At this point she nothing as it is removed. Get a grip, anyone—always seeing goodness,
sound banking system, no public debt, simply as an institution. Of course, to still held onto her praxis of reducing Abby. This is a simple, quick medical compassion, generosity, and self-
a strong legal system, and a rigorously see the Church as a structured visible abortions by helping women to opt procedure. My head was working sacrifice through the fence—that they
enforced anti-corruption regime. This case society has its own merits, but to look for adoption or contraception. But as hard to control my responses, but I too may find the path towards the truth
provides a clear example that economic at the Church as a Communion is to funds became scarce their superiors couldn’t shake an inner disquiet that about life, the person and the family.
development is not synonymous with emphasize the work of grace that demanded that they increase abortion was quickly mounting to horror as I Let us pray, however, that it may not
small population size, and that a large unites all members in Christ and draws procedures in order to earn more. This watched the screen. be an arduous road at the expense of
population is not only sustainable but them into the communion with the opened her eyes to reality. “The next movement was the sudden the lives of many innocent children
an asset to development. Father, Son and the Holy Spirit. She confesses: “I was starting to put jerk of a tiny foot as the baby started before they embrace the truth.
Mothers / B3 Sheep / B5
Mothers also influence development and when working together, also engage relationship with fathers and in how they pressures coming from the treaty The Church continues to be
through teaching. During infancy, the children in developmental processes while view fathers’ contributions. Fathers in monitoring bodies of the UN consistent in its call to stand up
cognitive stimulation and emotional support also inculcating values. Research findings turn, enable mothers to provide essential such as ICPD and the CEDAW for life, for truth and for what it is
mothers provide lays the foundation for indicate that children whose mothers openly contributions to their child’s development to legislate certain rights that right. We are called to pray harder
intellectual and linguistic functioning discuss the risks of behaviors such illicit by caring for mothers emotionally and have not been contemplated nor than before. We cannot see yet
throughout development. Just by talking sexual activity, alcohol and substance abuse, physically. A father’s emotional care of his intended in various international whether this bill will be approved
to their infants, directing their attention to and smoking, are less likely to engage in wife strengthens her maternal sensitivity and instruments. It should not be in the Congress, in the Senate and
objects in the environment, and labeling the dangerous behaviors (Guilamo-Ramos, et reduces her maternal stress, enabling her to pressured to comply with the how it will be implemented. But
objects they see, mothers provide cognitive al., 2006). Further, children whose mothers nurture more effectively. MDG agenda, which uses a certainly, the words of the Lord
stimulation that enhances their infant’s pass on their religious beliefs and facilitate Perhaps the best answer to the claim that disturbing “reproductive rights” continue to be our hope and guide
language skills and intellectual abilities their children’s involvement with religion mothers do not really matter is a statement approach in fostering its 8 in these trying times. Those who
(Tamis-LeMonda & Bornstein, 1989). As report the lowest levels of delinquency made by a group of stay-at-home fathers goals. Moreover, it is only a belong to the flock of the Good
children grow, mothers provide essential among adolescents (Pearce & Haynie, 2004). when asked what resources they would like declaration. Shepherd listen to His voice and
stimulation when they ask questions or give A mother’s teachings become a key ingredient for single fathers in an “ideal world.” Their 5. In as much as President follow Him. Win or lose, what
suggestions that invite the child’s thinking, in preparing her children to live fulfilling and statement provides an insightful commentary Benigno Simeon Aquino has clearly matters for us, is how we
or provide conceptual links among objects, contributing lives. from “the trenches” of parenthood: “An already publicly declared his stood our ground and remained
activities, locations, persons, or emotions Finally, mothers influence how fathers ideal world would be one with a father and intention to implement his own faithful to Our Lord who has
(Hubbs-Tait, Culp, Culp, & Miller, 2002). provide their essential contributions to a mother. We’d be lying if we pretended 5-point agenda on responsible assured us: “I came so that they
Mothers continue to provide cognitive children’s development. Andrea Doucet’s that wasn’t true. How can there be an ideal parenthood (RP), the Bishops might have life and have it more
stimulation for pre-school and school-age recent analysis of caregiving found that world without a mother for the children?” do not see any reason to further abundantly”(Jn 10: 10).
children when they read to their children fathers nurture development in ways that (Doucet, 2006, p. 215). undertake a serious study/ Given from the Office of the
and teach them concepts, encourage them are unique to mothers by focusing on play to dialogue on HB 4244 with the Archbishop this 11th day of May,
in hobbies, take them to libraries, museums, connect, fostering independence, promoting (Jenet Erickson is an Assistant Professor in administration as was proposed 2011, in the year of our Lord.
and theaters, and expose them to books problem solving, and encouraging risk the School of Family Life, at Brigham Young by Pres. Aquino himself. HB
and other sources of learning in the home taking, among other things (Doucet, 2006). University, Utah. This article is reprinted here 4244 and Pres. Aquino’s 5-point +LEONARDO Z. LEGASPI,
(Votruba-Drzal, 2003). Mothers’ influence Mothers influence how fathers enact their under special republishing agreement with RP agenda are deemed to be O.P., D.D.
on discussions during dinnertime, car rides, caregiving through the quality of their MercatorNet) basically the same. Archbishop of Caceres
B8 Entertainment CBCP Monitor
Vol. 15 No. 11
May 23 - June 5, 2011
Abhorrent Poor
Disturbing Below average
Acceptable Average
Wholesome Above average
Exemplary E
xcellent
In 1931, Jacob (Robert Pattinson) feel to every frame, creating not Title: Water for Elephants
is a regular guy with dreams of only a charming but also an Cast: Robert Pattinson, Reese
having a happy family life as a enchanting period movie. Witherspoon, James
veterinarian like his dad. About Part of its appeal, particularly Frain, Christoph Waltz,
to take his final exams at Cornell to the young at heart, is its circus Hal Holbrook, Paul Sch-
University that would earn him environment. Who wouldn’t be neider, Ken Foree, Tim
his license as a veterinary doctor, entertained by animals dressed Guinee, Mark Povinelli,
Scott MacDonald
he is dealt a blow by life when up and trained for tricks that Director: Francis Lawrence
his parents die in a car accident. delight young and old alike? And Writer: Sara Gruen, Richard
He discovers that they have left to see these intelligent animals LaGravenese
neither cash nor home for him off stage and interacting with Running Time: 122 min.
since they had mortgaged their humans—that’s certainly an Genre: Drama
house in order to give him an experience few would pass up Distributor: 20th Century Fox
Ivy League college education. even if only in the movies. Any Technical Assessment:
The bank now owns everything. Filipino who has ever wondered
Distraught, Jacob decides to how the local feria at town fiestas Moral Assessment: ½
leave the house without looking magically sprouts up in a few CINEMA rating: R 14 (For audi-
back. He is determined to leave hours can find charming answers ences aged 14 and up)
behind his house, his past and just watching how the Benzini
his dreams, although he does circus hands put up their big top chemistry, director Lawrence
not know where to go and what as if it’s almost a ritual. is correct in keeping the illicit
to do. He just wants to get away, Waltz is perfectly cast as the passion between them on slow
and so he hops a train, unaware it circus owner August, exhibiting burn—otherwise the love angle
is the traveling Benzini Brothers the same strengths that made for would overwhelm the other
circus. After a minor scuffle that hisaward-winningperformanceas elements that make the movie
almost gets him thrown off the Colonel Hans Landa in Inglourious worth watching even by younger
train, Jacob is taken in to do odd Basterds. With a face so mobile it audiences.
jobs like shoveling the cars clean can switch back and forth between Indeed, Water for Elephants is
of animal manure to earn his charismatic and tyrannical in a not a love story at all; it is more
keep. He is soon bewitched by split-second, Waltz’s villainous about kindness—the abundance
Marlena (Reese Witherspoon), portrayal defies prediction—one or lack of it in people—and the
the circus star and wife of the never knows what he’ll do next, dynamics of cruelty and poetic
travelling show’s mean big boss giving the movie its much needed justice. It’s about the intelligence
August (Christoph Waltz). tension. of beasts. That could be the reason
Directed by Francis Lawrence Pattinson and Witherspoon behind this old-fashioned film’s
(I am Legend and Constantine) are also the best choices for endurance at the box office—at
with screenplay written by their roles—Pattinson out of a time when movies bring to life
Richard LaGravenese and based his vampire mold combines fictitious superheroes through
on a novel by Sarah Gruen, Water intensity and gentleness, while CGI, Water for Elephants has
for Elephants is an extremely Witherspoon deviates from remained—now back to back
watchable film that has the power happy roles to play a small with the lords of spectacular
to take the viewer by hand to a town girl who endures her special effects Thor, The Priest,
world all its own. The sets, the husband because the circus is Fast and Furious 5—signaling
costumes, even the smallest props “the only place (she) can be a return to real people in real
are meticulously prepared and somebody.” Despite a few critics situations in real life. (Teresa R.
chosen to bring about a nostalgic who claim the two actors lack Tunay, OCDS)
By Thelma Hizon
A Call To Victory
in Antipolo last April 29- May fering was a sight to behold for year’s theme, “Put on the Full
1, 2011. Five thousand three the delegates came in colors Armor of God.”
hundred Handmaids from all assigned to their regions. They The conference started with
“A CALL TO ARMS/ A CALL over the Philippines and from came wearing armor: helmets, a mass celebrated by Bishop
TO VICTORY” was the theme seventeen countries thronged swords, sandals, belts, shields, Gabby Reyes of the diocese
of the Handmaids of the Lord to Antipolo, Rizal to show their and breastplates, all in gold. of Antipolo and concelebrated
(HOLD) International Confer- readiness to fight for the Lord. It was a night of “gearing up by Monsignor Allen Aganon,
ence at the Ynares Stadium The Friday Night Praise Of- for battle,” in keeping with the CFC’s spiritual director. In his
homily, Bishop Reyes affirmed
that indeed the world is a bat-
tlefield between good and evil,
and that the Handmaids of the
Lord are women called by God
to prepare and fight in this bat-
tle. Governor Casimiro Ynares,
Jr. and Vice- Governor Frisco
San Juan of Antipolo graced the
opening ceremonies and wel- Joe Tale leads the ministries coordinators in a pledge of unity
comed the delegates to their city.
Monsignor Aganon exhorted the the CFC community, after the dev- to fight and win the battle was
Handmaids to be “Amazonas” astation wrought by the powerful Didi Galsim’s challenge to all
for Christ during his homily earthquake in Japan. Handmaids in the last session of
on the Saturday morning mass Sp ea k er s Gr a c e Bu nt a g , the conference. She emphasized
of the conference. One of the Edythe Avendano, and Myrna the need for personal cleansing
speakers was quick to add that Vega spoke on winning in the and healing as a means of pre-
they are “amazonas” but with battlefields of the Church, the paring for the battle. Once the
the character and the faith of the CFC community, and the family battle begins, the Holy Spirit
Blessed Virgin Mary, the true respectively. The highlight of the directs and helps in discern-
Handmaid of the Lord. third session was the appear- ing the enemies and personal
Precy Confiado, wife of the ance of leaders of all the family relationship with God becomes
Philippine Consul to Tokyo, in ministries led by CFC Chairman the source of strength. While in
the first talk, shared how their Joe Tale. Joe called on the whole battle, the Handmaid is not alone
faith in God and their support for community to unite and fight to for Jesus, Mary, the Saints and
each other helped them reach out win the battle for Christ. the Angels will be fighting the
HOLD members from other countries came in their national costumes. to Filipinos, especially members of The final call to arm for battle, battle with her.
A Fulfillment of God’s
national Kids’ Village registered historic storm, the IKV held its sessions at the for the kids to show off their talents and
firsts. For the first time in KFC history, nearby World Trade Center in Manila. skills in the creative and sports competi-
a KFC member gave a talk during the KFC International Coordinator Nic tions. Well-known child actor Makisig
Faithfulness
IKV, to the amazement of adults and Escalona Jr. officially opened the confer- Morales, a former KFC member, set
kids alike. Also for the first time, the par- ence and welcomed delegates composed aside his celebrity status to serve as a
judge at the crea-
tive competitions.
A R.O.C.K. ON Tuesday, May 10, more than new home office.
forum was also 200 guests gathered to celebrate The International Council, led by
held for the CFC the blessing of the new CFC Home Joe Tale, Joe Yamamoto, Melo Vil-
- Youth For Christ Office building at 156 20th Avenue laroman, Rouquel Ponte, Lito Tayag
and the CFC - Sin- in Cubao. and Joey Arguelles, welcomed
gles For Christ The entrance of the new building, the guests and thanked the global
members serving a four-storey building that would family for their generosity that
in KFC. Called house the CFC staff and fulltime has enabled this dream to finally
R.O.C.K (Reach- workers, was festooned with an come true. They shared their awe
ing Out Christ to arch of blue and white balloons. at how mysteriously God works,
Kids), the forum The celebration started with ribbon- granting us triumph even in the
reminded the facil- cutting led by special guest Bishop midst of, and especially because
itators (ROCKers
for short) of their
mission - to lead
the children and
help them know
Christ more.
A colorful and
exuberant Lead
Parade energized
the first night.
KFC / C3
ents had their
own special
segment called
the Parents’
Summit, where
the unique call-
ing of raising
Christ-like chil-
dren was dis-
cussed. Indubi- Bishop Ongtioco during the thanksgiving Mass.
tably the most Honesto Ongtioco of the diocese of of, our trials. They cited that no
exciting “first” Cubao. As the congregation fol- one could have imagined that the
was the sudden lowed holding lighted white candles community would pay its debts
storm on the and as the Home Office Choir sang of more than P20 million because
second night songs of jubilation, the bishop pro- this was accomplished while CFC
of the IKV. The ceeded to bless every room of the was in deep leadership crisis. It is
downpour was building. After the blessing, the also a source of wonderment that
so strong and guests proceeded to the lobby for CFC members pulled together in
sudden that the the thanksgiving Mass celebrated by common purpose to buy this new
IKV play, which the bishop and Msgr. Allen Aganon, building, at a time when the com-
was ongoing at CFC’s spiritual adviser. munity was still in crisis because of
the time, had to In his homily, the bishop spoke the letting go of GK.
be put off until of sharing in the joy of CFC because They all reiterated that the new
the next day. we now have a home, after 30 years! home office is a fulfillment of and
A total of He prophesied that the community a testament to God’s faithfulness to
7,013 delegates will continue to grow with the help CFC over 30 years, and a symbol of
attended the of the gifts it receives, including the Home / C3
KFC IKV. With
C2 Ugnayan CBCP Monitor
Vol. 15 No. 11
May 23 - June 5, 2011
Reflections on CFC@30
AS we celebrate our pearl anniversary a watershed moment for CFC, for us to CFC brethren at all levels of member- moving full steam ahead. Gift of Life to give fullness of meaning
in June, we in CFC can truly say that pause and appreciate, much more than ship towards spiritual growth. We have We are fine-tuning the different Social and relevance to this important aspect
we celebrate a new day. The dark night any other anniversary in the past. This introduced new formation programs Ministries to be more focused on much of our life and mission. This ministry
has dawned into daybreak. Morning moment is an opportune time to reflect that help strengthen the spiritual foun- needed advocacy work to promote good is actively involved in the fight for life
has indeed broken, and what a beautiful where the Lord has taken us through dations especially of our leaders. The governance, responsible citizenship, not only in the Philippines (currently
morning it is for the next phase of our the years, and how He wants us to move “Great Adventure: A Journey through transformational justice, environmental focused on the RH Bill), but also in the
community life. forward. the Bible,” developed by Jeff Cavins, renewal, community health and well- other countries.
We have just been through severe It is clear to us now, coming from the provides a better appreciation of the ness, and other issues to advance social Even as we faced the storms, but also
challenges, much more than any other storm, that we have been honed to take Bible and the story of our salvation, justice. The different Social Ministries moved on without let up on our holistic
we have experienced in any period in CFC to yet another level in our mission. thereby helping draw us to be more core groups will continue to be the main mission of evangelization, family re-
CFC’s history. But these challenges, We have been molded and formed in solidly anchored on the Word. A course resource to the CFC areas with regard to newal, and work for the poor, we have
which could have broken us and even order to share the gift that is CFC to the on Contemplative Prayer, developed our evangelization of various sectors of not been remiss in the prudent govern-
destroyed us, have instead united us as world in a greater way. with the guidance of Sister Mary Niere society. Its actual programs for the poor ance of our resources. We have put our
a community, have made our vision and We have turned the corner as far as of the Carmelite nuns, has enhanced will be pursued in coordination with AN- books and finances in good order. With
mission clearer, have strengthened our evangelization is concerned. There is our spiritual deepening. We are also COP for greater synergy and impact. the inspiring generosity of CFC brethren
integration with the Catholic Church, resurgent evangelization once again, in responding to the community’s evolv- Our integration with the Catholic worldwide, we wiped out our sizable
have in fact opened up new horizons the Philippines and around the globe. ing demographics after 30 years. Thus, Church has been strengthened. Vatican, bank debts and have operated within
for evangelization, for family renewal, We are opening new countries once we are finalizing programs designed to through the Pontifical Council for the the means that the Lord has given us.
and for caring for the poor. Much like more, and growing in number and terri- address concerns of the senior members Laity, has time and again confirmed And significant amidst all these, we
the grain of sand that irritates an oys- tory where we are established. Globally of the community, in the same way that its recognition of only one Couples for have been blessed by the Lord with the
ter, these challenges have honed us as CFC is experiencing a new springtime we have developed programs especially Christ, the one under the leadership of special gift of a home we can now call
a community, and by the grace of God, of evangelization. relevant to young couples just starting the International Council. In line with our own. What a great 30th year anni-
the Pearl Maker himself, have turned In the Philippines, the center of the a family. this, we were invited to participate in the versary blessing to CFC! This has been
us into a people poised to do more for work, new fields of harvest beckon. We are initiating an annual global Vatican-organized Congress of Asian a long time dream of community, which
His kingdom. The Archdiocese of Manila has asked recollection, a near simultaneous pe- Catholic Laity held in Seoul, Korea in now, in God’s own time, has finally be-
Our journey these past five years, CFC to take on the family life apos- riod of prayer and reflection of all CFC August/September 2010. We have been come reality. Once more, the generosity
from our 25th year to now our 30th year, tolate programs in its 84 parishes. The communities everywhere around the received in official audiences with the of CFC brethren from all over the world
has been rough, even stormy, but neces- government has asked CFC to conduct world. This will help us to be truly one heads of the Pontifical Councils of the has been overwhelming. Thank you all.
sary for God’s purpose for CFC to hap- values formation programs for migrant global family together in prayer, and Laity, of the Family, and of Migrant To our young full time workers and
pen. And after going through our desert workers and their families. We have re- strengthen our common spirituality, Workers and Itinerant Peoples. We are missionaries especially: this new home
and wilderness as we moved from silver cently partnered with Ateneo de Manila culture and way of life. represented in the Board of Trustees also expresses our love and concern for
to pearl, we understand better, we real- University to help uplift the condition Our work in total Christian libera- of Laiko, the umbrella organization of the next generation of CFC, part of our
ize more deeply, God’s wisdom in all of some 400 public schools under their tion has been revisited, and is now on Catholic lay organizations in the Phil- legacy to you to equip you better for
that happened. We now stand on the care. The Department of Education has firmer ground. We have gone back to ippines. We publish a monthly supple- the mission.
mountain ridge, appreciating the valley engaged our help in various aspects of our original work with the poor, AN- ment in the CBCP Monitor, the official More and more, we are not working on
where we came from, but gazing up to public education in the country. We COP (Answering the Cry of the Poor), newspaper of the Catholic Bishops our own, and have in fact strengthened
the peaks that await us and to where He continue to expand our evangelization guided by principles that govern our Conference of the Philippines. We are linkages with other partners in mission.
is directing our path. and formation programs in the parishes, way of life in CFC. It is clearer now that represented in the Board of Trustees of Of great significance is our full reconcili-
We, too, now stand more confidently in government, business and industry, our work with the poor is intimately the Philippine Bible Society, represent- ation with our mother community, Ang
on the water’s edge, no longer as fear- the armed services, prisons, and other connected to and flows out of our love ing the Catholic lay. CFC volunteers Ligaya ng Panginoon (Joy of the Lord),
ful of the occasional wind and waves, institutions. for God, and that therefore, Christ is help out in the various CBCP Episco- which founded CFC in 1981. The relation-
for during our tumultuous times, we We hear again, louder and clearer always the center of the work. In line pal commissions, particularly for the ship was broken when CFC separated
dove deeper into our spiritual reser- now, Blessed John Paul II’s exhortation: with our vision, we likewise pursue this youth, missions and migrant workers. in 1993. Although a joint statement of
voir, into the depths where the sand “Open, indeed, open wide the doors to work consistent with our being one and An increasing number of our young reconciliation was signed in 2005, the
and the oysters are, and where pearls Christ. Open to his saving power the integrated with the Catholic Church. around the world have responded to substance and fullness of the reconcilia-
are made. Contemplative prayer has confines of states, and systems political This posture has also endeared us to the call for vocation in the priesthood tion really occurred only on April 7, 2011,
allowed us to confront the dark nights, and economic, as well as the vast fields partners, old and new, who clearly see and religious life. in a joyful and meaningful gathering of
and we now recognize that it was dark of culture, civilization, and develop- the need for a strong spiritual and moral Church integration has also been the leaders of the two communities. Both
because the resplendent God, in His ment. Do not be afraid.” We thank the values foundation for any work with the established and strengthened in our communities now look forward eagerly
great love for us, was so near and our Lord that He has brought CFC to where poor. The various programs have been international communities in the differ- to cooperation and collaboration in our
human eyes could not take the glare of it is now, established and better geared refocused, refined and revitalized. The ent continents, much, much more than shared mission of evangelization, particu-
His brightness. up to more fully respond to His Great backroom systems and processes have ever before, especially where Clergy- larly in the work with the poor.
This, our pearl anniversary, is there- Commission. been tightened and the organizational Lay Congresses have been initiated and We have begun to pass on the torch to
fore special, particularly because the CFC has also been blessed with a rich structure streamlined. While still on the organized by CFC. our younger set of leaders. The training
precursor events leading to and sur- pastoral formation program, tried and re-launch mode, our work for the poor We have also strengthened the ex- and formation of our KFC, YFC and SFC
rounding it, have made us realize proven over the years, but also dynamic in ANCOP is surely generating new pression of our core value of being have also honed them to assume greater
God’s hand designing this event to be and responsive to the times, helping energy, gathering steam, and just about pro-life. We have named the ministry Reflections / C3
Heart of a Champion
NOWADAYS, travel to faraway Olympic gold medal in the 400- was a missionary there. He Liddell, his life and deeds con- Gideon are worth examining not insist on parity in strength and
places is no longer as tedious meter relay race. The Oscar win- served as a missionary in the tinue to inspire people. Fifty-six for comparison but to reinforce numbers, at least to raise the
and difficult as it used to be. In ning 1981 movie, Chariots of Fire, remote mountainous regions of years after the 1924 Paris Olym- how the heroes of the Old Testa- possibility of success. But the
spite of the hassles over catching was about his life, particularly Northern China. His was a life pics, in the 1980 Moscow Olym- ment serve as timely models. plan was God’s and in the end,
flights, check-in and boarding about his conviction to put his of spartan simplicity, privation pics another Scotsman, Allan Gideon (Mighty Warrior) the victory was His.
procedures and the inevitable love and duty to God first before and difficulty, yet he found Welles, won the 100-meter dash. came from humble origin from God’s plan for the 300 soldiers
security checks, there are also his personal honor and desires. In fulfillment and happiness in Asked if he was offering this vic- the tribe of Manasseh, a very was a very unorthodox strategy
the available entertainments, the movie, Liddell refused to run proclaiming the Gospel to unbe- tory to honor Harold Abrahams, unlikely candidate to free the to deliver the Midianites into
particularly inflight movies. the 100-meter race which he was lievers and in teaching Chinese who was the British champion people of Israel from the ma- the hands of God’s people. The
On one recent trip with Mila strongly favored to win because children. He eventually married for the 100-meter race in the 1924 rauding Midianites. Gideon night before the fateful battle,
and our two daughters, we the event fell on the Sabbath. Rath- the daughter of a Canadian mis- Paris Olympics, in the race that was very unsure of himself and Gideon and another companion
were greatly entertained by the er than please the people and win sionary couple with whom he Eric should have competed in, unconvinced of God’s com- reconnoitered the enemy camp.
inflight movie “Secretariat,” a glory for himself and his country, had three daughters. The routine and most assuredly would have mand to free his people. But Encouraged by what he saw and
film about the thoroughbred he chose to please and obey God. of their lives was interrupted as won, Welles replied - “No, this he did have the temerity to ask heard, Gideon issued to each
that won Triple Crown titles By a strange twist of events, Eric war clouds gathered. one is for Eric Liddell” God for proof. He asked for two man unlikely weapons – a trum-
in the early 1970s. To win in found himself scheduled to run When the Second World War In 2008, sometime before the miracles, to be performed by the pet (shofar) and a clay jar with a
one major horse racing event is in the 400-meter race which was broke out, with China being in start of the Olympic Games in Lord on consecutive nights, each lighted torch hidden inside. The
already cause for big celebra- never his forte. the midst of that conflict, Eric Beijing, the Chinese authorities miracle the exact opposite of the small band was divided into
tion; to win three major races is On the fateful day of the race, sent his wife and children back revealed that during the war, other. God, ever faithful, showed three companies of a hundred
an extremely rare phenomenon, as he was getting settled at the to Canada. He and his younger a few British prisoners includ- Gideon the desired miracles. men who were ordered to march
particularly since this record starting line, an American friend brother Rob, a doctor, stayed ing Eric Liddell, were offered a Only then did Gideon realize into the enemy camp.
stood unchallenged for three approached him and placed in on. They were eventually incar- chance to leave China as part of a that he was indeed being called The next steps were examples
decades. Secretariat, the ‘hero’ his hand a handwritten quota- cerated in the Weihsien intern- prisoner exchange arrangement to do God’s bidding and that he of FEARLESSNESS to THINK
of the film was named Horse of tion from Samuel 2:30- “those ment camp with other foreign brokered by Winston Churchill. had no other response except to and ACT of the BOX. Upon
the Year and brought fame and who honor me I will honor.” nationals. As prisoners, they Eric refused and instead gave show SINGLEMINDEDNESS reaching the edge of the camp,
wealth to his owners. From a rather ungainly start, were subjected to more priva- his place to a pregnant Chinese for HIM. the three companies of Israelites
The movie was not just about Eric paced himself and gradu- tions and hardships, but those woman.This unknown fact about His initial mission was to followed the lead of Gideon and
a phenomenal race horse but ally gained momentum. In the adversities failed to dampen him surprised even his family. destroy the altars of Baal and to swooped down on the unsus-
about the people around it -- the last laps, throwing caution to the Eric’s spirit. He never wavered In 1991, a memorial head- rally the people from the tribes pecting and sleeping enemies.
owner, Penny Chenery Tweedy winds, he literally gave every- in his commitment nor passion. stone, made from special granite, of Manasseh, Asher, Zebulun They blew their shofar, smashed
(Diane Lane) the trainer Lucien thing he had in him and against He became the fabric that held was placed at his tomb in the and Naphtali to stand up to the the jars and amid the continuous
Laurin (John Malkovich) and the all odds, won the race! the other prisoners together and former prisoner camp in Wei- Midianites and Amalekites. blowing of the shofar, shouted:
jockey who rode the horse to vic- Eric the Champion was swept his spiritual strength and convic- fang (formerly Weishien) by It took uncommon COURAGE “A sword for the Lord and Gide-
tory -- three different individuals off his feet and carried on the tion became a rallying point and his alma mater, the Edinburgh to stand up to the enemies of on!” In the confusion and panic,
brought together by unusual cir- shoulders of his team mates for anchor for many. University. Written as epitaph Israel, who were after all much the enemy ended up killing each
cumstances. In the end, despite that joyful moment of triumph When even other misisionar- were the simple words taken superior in strength and in num- other. Thus were the enemies of
their differences, the chemistry and victory for his country. But ies were becoming desperate, from Isaiah 40:31- “They that bers. It was just a short matter of Israel delivered “not by might
between them proved right for for Eric, the greater victory was Eric maintained his dignity and hope in the Lord will renew their time before a major confronta- nor by power but by my Spirit,
the desired outcome. that he had not sacrificed his compassion. Despite hardships strength, they will soar as with tion happened. says the Lord” (Zech 4:6) .
Each of them displayed the principles, he had stood by what and scarcity of supplies, he and eagles wings; they will run and Arrayed against the more Gideon PRAYED and he was
rare kind of conviction and he believed in, he had given Rob continued to minister to oth- not grow weary, walk and not powerfully massed armies of answered. His remaining life
commitment that makes for homage and honor to God. He ers, especially the sick and the grow faint.” Midianites and Amalekites were was spent rooted in the FOUN-
‘champions.’ They demonstrated was a ‘champion’ after God’s elderly. Their work days were What lessons does the life of the mere 32,000 soldiers of Gide- DATION of the WORD of GOD.
that feeling of assurance that own heart, like the heroes of the long and hard.Finally, malnu- Eric Liddell teach us? These are on. We all know the story of how His godly ways allowed him to
they can confront adversities Old testament. trition and exhaustion took its all very basic values that a Chris- God thought that the 32,000, a lead his people with wisdom and
and overcome all odds. The thor- toll and he developed advanced tian needs to nurture: singlem- mere fraction of the might of the compassion.
oughbred, Secretariat, loved to PURSUIT OF GREATER brain tumor. He died in 1945. indedness for God, a courageous enemy, were still too many to ac- We draw inspiration from the
‘run,’ and to ‘come from behind’ LOVE A missionary, who was with life, fearlessness to think and act complish God’s planned victory. lives of these virtuous men, one
and had inherited the instinct to Liddell ran competitively for a Eric when he died, heard him out of the box, a life of prayer, In a series of tests, God, through from olden times and another in
win from a great pedigree. The few more years. Eventually, like utter his last words – “ It ‘s and being rooted on the founda- Gideon, pruned the army to just modern times. Their examples
horse was the glue that held the his father before him, he fulfilled complete surrender“. Indeed tion of the Word of God. 300 faithful soldiers. show us that godliness knows
story together. his dream of becoming a minis- Eric Liddell had surrendered Eric Liddell exemplified these Conventional contemporary no age and that the basic values
There is another beautiful story ter of religion and a missionary. everything in life to God. lessons for us in this modern age. military wisdom will tell you never change. We continue to
of a champion that inspires – the After much discernment, he But there are many who came that Gideon’s strategy was so pray that we may emulate this
story of Eric Liddell. Liddell was went back to China, where he REMEMBRANCE ahead who lived these virtues farfetched and unrealistic. Mod- kind of selflessness and single-
the Scotsman who won the 1924 was born at the time his father Long after the death of Eric out as well. The life and times of ern military strategists would mindedness for God.
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 15 No. 11
May 23 - June 5, 2011
Ugnayan C3
RECOMMENDATION
The Chairman of the Episcopal Commission on the Laity, Bishop
Jesse E. Mercado, DD, has issued a letter recommending to all clergy,
religious and lay people the Freedom to Love conference featuring
Christopher West, an expert on Pope John Paul II’s Theology of the
Body. He also commended CFC for initiating the conference. His
letter of recommendation is reprinted in full below:
KFC / C1
Kids from different delegations danced it was “running with and for Christ!” light, but it was cut short because of the
their hearts out as they shared the flavor and The kids then participated in three differ- sudden downpour brought about by Ty-
culture of their areas. ent workshops on “Praying,” “Loving” and phoon Bebeng. Despite this minor setback,
One of the highlights of the IKV was the “Serving.” The kids had fun going through the IKV pushed through the following day
first talk given by Justin Silvestre, an 11-year obstacle courses before entering the different at the World Trade Center, starting off with
old KFC from the North sector of Metro Ma- workshop tents. the celebration of the Holy Eucharist by
nila. It was the first time for a KFC member While the kids were enjoying the work- Rev. Fr. Xavier Olin, SJ. Before the closing
to give a talk in the conference. Speaking like shops, the parents and couple coordinators prayer, Fr. Xave led all the kids present to
a person beyond his years, Justin encour- attended the Parents’ Summit at the World pray for their mothers in commemoration
aged the children not to let evil win over Trade Center Tent. Melo Villaroman Jr., a of Mother’s Day.
them because Christ has already saved us. member of the CFC International Council After Mass, KFC International Coordina-
200 kids joined the Kids’ Run in the morn- and the Family Ministries Director, ex- tor Nic Escalona Jr. gave the last talk and
ing of the second day of the IKV. The run plained how children are growing up in an encouraged the kids to take the lead, and to
aimed to advocate a healthy mind, body and environment where the primary role and continue to pray, love and serve amidst all
spirit. Some of the kids interviewed said that authority of parents are being overrun by challenges.
joining the Kids’ Run was “a new experi- factors that are unfriendly to family values. Before the conference ended, it was an-
ence,” a means of “exercise,” “a venue for On Saturday evening, the IKV play “Gear nounced that the next conference will be held
meeting new friends,” but most importantly, Up and Take the Lead” was the main high- next year in Davao.
Ugnayan
CBCP Monitor
C4 Vol. 15 No. 11
May 23 - June 5, 2011
Princess Diaries in UK
By Edna Nidea SFC Timor Leste: Standing
RECENTLY, the CFC Family of Northeast England held back-to-
back events for the men and women, namely the “Knights Tale”
and “Princess Diaries” weekends.
For the men, the “Knights Tale” weekend was a time to know them-
Firm For Christ
By Emmanuel Asunto and a former Singles for Christ for Life” and “Weeds Among and the 500 other parishion-
selves more intimately as individuals, and to discover their purpose, member in Cebu, delivered the Wheat”-- were given by sup- ers that braved the Sunday
i.e. to be God’s new army to be sent out to the world. The workshop, second talk, and reminded the portive friends of CFC from the morning heat to attend Mass,
three sessions and fellowship night all helped the men present to “HAMRIIK METIN,” which singles to always be on guard for religious, namely: Deacon Floren- which was held in an open
bond with one literally means “Stand Firm” “the enemy never sleeps.” tino Gil dos Santos, SVD; Sister amphitheater-like area. He
another and The next talk was given by Christelle Zabalerio, a Maryknoll also lauded the work of Cou-
was the battle-cry of more
with God as Karen dela Cerna, another full- nun who helps conduct Natural ples for Christ and its Family
than 250 single men and
their King. time pastoral worker for CFC Family Planning and other Pro- Ministries.
women during the SFC Fr. Angelo, who is also the
The screening East Timor, who rallied the Life seminars for the CFC Timor
Timor Leste (East Timor) chaplain for the armed forces
of the movie “army” present to put on the full Leste community, and Rev. Fr.
National Conference held of Timor Leste said that the
“Fireproof” armor of God at all times. Justino Alan Bondoc, SVD, respectively.
which talks in the district of Ermera
Freitas, a Singles for Christ Unit
about com- last May 7 and 8, 2011. The
Head from the Sacred Heart of Je-
mitment and participants came from all sus parish in Becora, Dili, shared
transformation seven parishes of Dili, the about God’s marching orders in
capital of Timor, and districts the last talk, proclaiming the core
in marriage was a (the Philippine equivalent of God’s mission, which is to be
good reminder for would be provinces) such as pro-poor, pro-life, pro-family and
all present. The last Uatolari, Baucau, Fatumaca pro-God.
session empowered
everyone to truly
be knights in God’s
army, ready to face
all obstacles in life.
The “Princess Di-
aries” weekend was
also a memorable
event, this time for the women. God reminded all the participants
about their identities as “princesses” with Him as “King.” With The workshops were preceded “Armor of God” talks were
the example of beauty, obedience and courage set by Mama Mary, with a “voluntourism” activity in very fitting to be given to
women are able to do God’s will for them and for their families. Five Ermera where the SFC delegates Timorese military. This is
inspiring sessions and a joyful fellowship night helped the women to shared their time with different good news as it could be one
be prepared, just like the “knights,” to be sent to the “battlefield.” families in the area by praying step towards strengthening
The events were a wonderful way for both men and women to af- with and for them, helping them the peacekeeping efforts in
firm their “Yes” to the Lord’s calling – to go and make disciples of all with their chores, and exchanging Timor.
nations, starting with their adopted country, the United Kingdom. stories with them. The experience As a bonus from the Lord,
was a touching one for all, and CFC and SFC were privileged
most of the families involved end- to have the SFC National
ed up teary-eyed and grateful. Conference featured on TVTL,
CFC and ADMU team up for values and Viqueque. The inspiring talks were backed
The conference ended with
a Spirit-filled Mass celebrated
Timor’s local television net-
work. The presence and sup-