Editor
from the
Hello BukYo!
Let me tell you a story. Not so long ago, (as far as I could remember) there were lot of type writers, noisy walkie talkies and snail mails… Children would go out and ride their bikes or their skates or play hide and seek under the not-so-hot sun. Men would serenade to persuade demure women. People were churching solemnly and attentively listening to the preacher. There were some who would set and gather around a bonfire when the moon is in its fullest and everybody would talk about things – either with sense or no sense. And they all lived happily! Hay, pagkatsada mag reminisce…isn’t it? Busa, the whole staff of Banagbanag is proud to present you this issue with the theme, “Balik-Lantaw.” Technology and Medias has made our lives easier and convenient and fun -- People texting instead of talking to each other, social media as the window to the outside world, transforming ourselves into our favorite celebrities…and ETC. We cannot stop technology from developing though and as long as media is there, we can’t disrupt the influence from other countries to ours... However, those things has become essential in today’s generation (by some means). At dahil hindi na maibabalik ang mga kahapong nagdaan , atong balik-lantawon ang mga panahon kung diin life is still so simple and where values and practices were being valued the most. Sa atong pagbalik-lantaw, ato pud itry to bring back to life those values and practices na nawala na sa atong generasyon karon. Let us start it in ourselves. Ready? So, the whole team of Banagbanag wishes you all a happy reading and we hope na naa muy makuha na lessons from the articles. Thank you and enjoy! ^_^ God bless you! P.S.: To reminisce (Balik-Lantaw) is to understand. We understand things we never understood before. We understand different thoughts and ideas. We understand the value of morals and especially we understand the value of living. Nganung magbalik-lantaw? Why would we like you to reminisce? Does it have something or anything to do with you? Quoted from Lion King III: “You won’t change the past, so why worry?” Indeed! Why worry? Perhaps God wants us to change something. To change some things that went wrong. Because it is our responsibility. It is our responsibility to change things we feel wrong.
CHARMAIN GRACE C. CASQUITE
Editor in Chief
i
WHAT’S INSIDE? MESSAGES from the Editor, i a directive from the Bishop, v Pop’s Tidings, vi A Nun-sense Note, vii A word from the DYL, viii
BUKNEWS Christ-like Leaders, 5 2nd YFC High School High, 6 Isidrans Rock YFC High..., 7 Cabustam Meeting & Outing, 8 Rising up in Name of the Lord, 14 Malinao PYA on Fire, 15 FEATURES Environmental Stewardship, 16 The Truth of Getting Old, 20 900 Words and Counting, 29
13
MUSINGS Look back to see Forward 31 What have we done?, 33 The Kind of Man, 35 Vocation Story, 37 There’s a Saint for that Part II, 43 Literary Attempts, 45 Lingaw2x Corner, 50 Memes, 52 Comix, 53 YE Corner, 57 Pinahiping Pagbati, 58
51
12 10 17
31
19 21 55 42
56 ii
Does that Make Me a Better Person? iii
Text by: Ivy-Ann R. Sumagang Illustration by: Alexander C. Alonzo
C
hange is unstoppable. The way we live, the way we dress, the things we have, and the way we act. Indeed, change is the only constant thing in this world. The world is evolving to a modern era by which most of what we have is transformed to what most people call as ‘modernization’. Today, most of us are used to the easy and immediate way of life. We cannot live a day without complaining when our cellphones are missing or by the simple blackout when the power source cut electricity lines for hours. We are used to the modern world that sometimes we forget to appreciate the simple things and the simple life our parents and grandparents have before. We are simply modern people.
all of us to look back and remember what we have as individuals rooted from a definite culture and values. The change that most of us experience have been influenced by the western culture. We are so much engrossed with the new trend that is introduced to us that at times, we forgot our traditions, customs, and values that are basically important to us as Filipino youth. Such pictures can be seen within our social networking channels. Instead of interacting personally with each other, we socialize and interact through the internet. We use emoticons and icons to show how we feel or how we react with others. Do these make us better individuals expected to be agents of change and builders of the Kingdom of God?
Amidst this changing world and the way we live our lives, one important question to ask ourselves is that, “Do all these things make me a better person? Do all these things contribute for me to become a better individual?” Things are changing, yes. We are moving forward, maybe. In this time of moving to a modern life, to a modern world, it is a challenge for
It is not bad to embrace modernization when we use them and maximize them for the common good. What makes modernization good for all is when we use them to enhance what we have and still upholding our values, traditions, customs, and the culture we have as part of a certain people—as Filipinos and as Christians. It is to listen to our parents and obey our
elders as family-oriented individuals. It is to use this modernization not just for ourselves but to maximize it to help the needy, listen to the plea of those who are shouting for justice, help reach out the marginalized, and act for those who are oppressed. Thus, as we look back to who we were and what we were into who we are right now and what have we become today, it is good to ask ourselves: “Have I become a better person in serving God and His people?” Live simply so others may simply live—it is to live contentedly while letting go of consumerism so others may have what we have. It is to share in the simplest way we can. A challenge posted to us as youth of the modern era: to act our faith; to do justice to mankind. To prefer necessity than need and to practice authentic freedom. Freedom by which doing what God wants us to do and being the very persons He wanted us to become. Now, does that make us a better person? Look back!
iv
a directive from the Peace!
Bishop
“Balik-lantaw”. A word that is so full of meaning. For one, this word invites us to stop for a moment and look behind us. To reflect from our past is to better understand our present. An eye in the past can help guide the future. As we are always told, knowledge is power. When we have more knowledge we can make better decisions. That is why we spend too much energy knowing everything we thought we should know. We spend time studying our past to help us teach about dealing our present and so form a better future. Yet, for many of us, there can be a disconnection between knowing something and acting wisely on that knowledge. My dear young people of God, let this be a reminder for all of us. Knowledge must be translated into action. God has given us the gift to know, and like any other gift, we have to use it according to the mind of the Giver. As St. Paul would say, that gifts are given to us to make use of it, for the common good. As you do the “balik-lantaw”, may you learn to appreciate the wonderful things that God has done for us, and so you may be able to love Him more deeply in your life.
+JOSE ARANETA CABANTAN, D.D.
Bishop of Malaybalay
Bishop’s Residence Datu-Mampaalong Street Malaybalay City, Bukidnon
v
POP’S
tidings
Gud day mga palangga! Aduna akoy nadunggan nga sayings sa akong klasmet kaniadto nga nagkanayon: “A man who know nothing about the past shall condemn to repeat it.� Kini nagpasabot lamang nga angayan hinumduman ang atong mga kagahapon. Ang paghinumdum sa mga kaagi magtabang kanato sa pagtimbang-timbang sa atong kinabuhi sa pagkakaron ug sa umaabot. Sa atong pagpadayon sa kinabuhi, balik-lantawon nato ang atong mga kasinatian nga maoy nakapahimong lig-on sa atong pagsagubang sa mga hulga sa kinabuhi. Kini unta mamahimong sukaranan sa atong malipayong pagpadayon sa pagserbisyo sa mga kabatan-onan sa atong tagsa-tagsa ka lugar. Kini ang inyong igsoon nga mapasalamaton sa inyong pagpadayon sa inyong lihok suporta sa mga kabataan. Good Luck sa inyo mga BUKYO!
REV. FR. RITCHELL S. QUITA
Diocesan Youth Spiritual Director
Diocesan Commission on Youth G/F, Old Convent, San Isidro Labrador Cathedral San Isidro St., Malaybalay City, Bukidnon
vi
note
A Nun-sense Mahal kong Bukyo at mga kaibigan,
Ang Agosto ay buwan kung saan tayo ay inaanyayahang balikan ang lahi na ating pinagmulan. Ano at sino nga ba tayong mga Pilipino……Katolikong Pilipino. Kilala ang ating lahi bilang mga taong may pagpapahalaga sa sarili, sa pamilya, sa kapwa tao at sa Maylikha. Ang pagmamano, pagsimba at pagkain kasama ang pamilya, pagiging hospitable, may malasakit sa bayan at sa iba…. Yan ang tatak Pinoy. Subalit ang kasalukuyang panahon ay sinisilaw ang mga mata natin sa kung ano ang madali at naaayon sa personal nating hilig o kagustuhan. Unti unting nawawala ang value ng pamilya, respeto at pananalig sa Lumikha at sa iba. Madami na sa atin ang nakakalimot sa kulturang ating pinagmulan. Magpasalamat tayo sa Diyos dahil binigyan tayo ng pagkakataong MAGBALIKLANTAW upang muli nating mabigyan ng pansin ang sariling atin, makapagmunimuni, makapagtanong… Pilipino pa ba ako sa isip, sa salita at sa gawa? Makapagdasal. Tulungan nawa tayo ng maawaing Diyos na makabalik sa ating pinagmulan. Samahan nawa tayo ng Mahal na Ina sa ating pagbabalik-lakbay sa pagtunton sa kung ano at sino nga ba tayong mga Pilipino. BUKYO sama-sama tayong bumalik at angkinin ang sariling atin. Nagmamahal,
SR. LERMA A. SOTALBO, FDCC
Chairperson, Diocesan Commission on Youth
Diocesan Commission on Youth G/F, Old Convent, San Isidro Labrador Cathedral San Isidro St., Malaybalay City, Bukidnon
vii
A word
DYL
from the
Dearest BukYo,
Being involve in a youth ministry is something I would be forever grateful. As I look back, I realized I first joined the youth ministry when a friend asked me to sing in a choir. I never became a parish youth leader. I was that plain and ordinary youth member, who eventually found my life’s purpose in every meeting, activity and gathering I attend to. Every moment in the ministry seemed to be an unfolding of the WILL of the LORD for me. Through the years, I learned that the best way to LIVE is to live according to the plans of God for us. Today, my life is a thanksgiving of this very beautiful gift of FAITH. In the ministry we are in, we may have entered into its door differently, but there’s one thing certain- we are all heading to 1 Direction – ONE CHRIST! Choosing to be brave enough in staying, even if we aren’t paid for our services; even if we are often scolded for our mistakes; even if sometimes our works are taken for granted, is something that makes this ministry standing and MORE ALIVE. With you all, I am so much positive of the thought that our ministry will keep growing and will never die. For the people who strongly founded this ministry with pillars of PASSION, COMMITMENT, LOVE and FAITH, no matter where you are in the world right now, I would like to say thank you for the seeds you’ve planted that we are now reaping. Rest assured we won’t stop planting. We won’t stop serving. We will keep this ministry ALIVE. Past is something we could not travel back, but it is something we could always LOOK BACK! Thanks God we have a very beautiful PAST in the youth ministry and it’s always worth looking back. Someday, we will be the past of tomorrow’s today, let’s continue planting more passion, commitment, love and faith to our young people that we may become the past they may also wish to look back with a smile in the days to come. You are in my heart,
JORRIE MAE D. HERNANDEZ
Diocesan Youth Leader
Diocesan Commission on Youth G/F, Old Convent, San Isidro Labrador Cathedral San Isidro St., Malaybalay City, Bukidnon
viii
Buk News
3rd Parish Youth Days sa San Isidro Labrador Cathedral, Nagmalampuson John Mark Dela C. Peña
Nagmalampuson ang gipahigayung ika-tulo nga Parish Youth Days sa mga kabatan-onan sa parokya ni San Isidro Labrador. Gisugdan kini sa usa ka Community Mass diha sa atong Cathedral nga gipangunahan ni Fr. Boni Cabaya ang bag-ong parish priest sa Kalasungay Sub-Parish, inabagan ni Fr. Ritchell Quita, ang Assistant Rector sa Cathedral. Sa maong dakung panagtigum gi
1
buksan usab napilian nga logo nga gisubmitar sa nag kadaiyang kapilya sulod sa parokya. Si Mayela Lou Adajar gikan sa Impalambong Catholic Community ug si Dexter Amigo, gikan sa kapilya ni Sr. San Roque Chapel, mao ang palaran nga napili-an uban sa temang “Panglakaw kamo ngadto sa tibuok kalibutan ug himua sila nga akong mga tinun-an - Mathew 28:19”. Gisunod dayon ang Torch parade padulong
sa Diocesan Formation Center 1, inubanan sa Traffic Management Center. Sulod usab sa maong panagtigum, ang nahimong dinapit nga bisita aron sa pag-hatag ug Input mahitungod sa “Youth as Laity” mao ang Diocesan Youth Leader nga gikan sa Immaculate Conception Parish, Impasug-ong mao si Ms. Jorrie Mae Hernandez. Nag mabulokon usab ang maong panagtigum tungod sa mga nagkahan-ay nga programa alang sa mga
Buk
Ang nahimong Cheerdance Competition Champion mao ang Our Lady of Peace Chapel, Impalambong; sa Contemporary mao ang Sr. San Jose Chapel ug Immaculate Heart of Mary Chapel, Sumpong
Sa katapusan, gihimo ang usa ka santos nga misa uban ang mga foster parents. Kini gipangunahan ni Msgr. Nonoy A. Surez. Natigayon usab ang Barrio Fiesta diin ang matag kapilya/ organization nag dala sa nagkadaiyang putahe aron pagaambitan sa tanan. Kining tanan nag malampuson tungod usab sa kooperasyon ug pagtibangay sa matag usa, ug sa suporta nga gihatag ug gipakita sa PPCC pinangunahan ni PPC OIC, Mr. Nestor Sotelo ug mga kaubanan. Dako ang pasalamat sa supporta nga gipakita sa Diocesan Commission on Youth Council, uban sa DCY Chair, Sr. Lerma A. Sotalbo, FdCC,
News
kabatan-onan. Gipahigayun usab ang usa ka faith Jam diin ang nanguna niini mao ang Parish Youth Adviser nga mao si Ms. Rose Marie Egama. Subay sa maong aktibidadis gipahigayun ang usa ka pinasahing kalihukan nga mao ang Cheerdance and Contemporary Competition, paugnat sa kusog sama sa Basketball Men and Women ug Pinoy Olympics.
ug s a outgoing PYA Coordinator nga si Sr. Virginia Sarcaoga, FdCC uban ni Sr. Jocelyn Densing, FdCC, Ms. Forchia Mae Cutar ug Ms. Rosemarie Egama. Sa tibuok pwersa sa PYA, nahuman ang maong panagtipok sa usa ka hagit: “Manglakaw kitang tanan ngadto sa tibuok kalibutan ug atong himoon nga magsasangyaw ang sanlibutan�.
2
Buk News
N
Magkakaiba Ngunit Nagkakaisa: 1 Cor. 12:12
agmabulokon ang panagtigum sa tanan Religious Organizations ug nagkalain-laing youth apostolates sa gipahigayong panagtigum kaniadtong Hunyo 21,2014 didto sa Bukidnon State University Gymnasium. Ang maong panagtigum ginganlan ug “1D” (One Direction). Dili mominus sa kapin 800 ka batan-on ang miduyog sa maong kasaulogan uban
3
Joven C. Dela Peña Jr.
sa temang “MAGKAKAIBA NGUNIT NAGKAKAISA”, kinutlo nga berso gikan sa unang Corinto. Ang maong panagtigum pinanguluhan sa Diocesan Commission on Youth inabagan usab sa kadaghanan Sa Youth For Christ (YFC) ug sa mga nagkalain youth orgs sama sa Student Catholic Action of the Philippines (SCAP), Young Flames for Jesus (YFJ), Young Servants of the Lord
Buk
atong panaglahi, kita gihiusa diha sa gugma sa Dios tungod kitang tanan adunay mission niining kinabuhia diin kita aha karon. Sa katapusan, gitapos kini sa usa ka Santos nga misa diin gipanguluhan sa atong halangdong obispo sa diyosesis Most Rev. Jose Araneta Cabantan D.D.
News
(YSL), Youth Apostolate of Fatima (YAF), Christ’s Youth in Action (CYA), Institusyon Teresiana (IT) Youth, Medical Mission Youth (MMY), ug uban pang mga youth organizations. Ang tumong sa maong panagtigum mao ang pagkahiusa sa tanang youth apostolate ug Religious Organizations likod sa panaglahi niini. Ang nahimong pinasidunggang dinapit niadtong tungora mao ang amahan sa mga kabatan-onan sa diyosesis nga mao si Rev. Fr. Ritchell Quita. Sa iyang presentasyon, iyang giasoy nga bisan sa
4
Buk News
Angelie Bago
Christ-like Servant Leaders
A
ugust 2, 2014 - Kids for Christ from cluster 1 of Bukidnon started their month of August having the LEAD ORIENTATION program. This is a leadership program that aims to mold young Christ-like leaders that are willing to serve the community and fellow kids. During the orientation, they were told that in order to be Christ-like leaders, one must be: HONEST, LOVING, PRAYERFUL, LIVING A LIFE LIKE JESUS EVERYDAY, must be READY and HAPPY to SERVE. Christ-like leaders also must have honor to serve God and have the HEART to serve. HEART means H-humble E-eager, A-always ready, R-respectful and T-takes time to pray. With the help of the youth leaders and couple coordinators, kids were able to have a meaningful, fruitful and amazing day. They had an amazing race which has 10 pit stops and each pit stop is composed of traits and characteristics that a servantleader must possess. Also there were workshops and lots of activities that shows what a true leader must be. This program reminds us that if those kids can be taught how to be Christ-like leaders, then, is there anything that could stop us from being like them? Because we are in one Christian Catholic Community, we all must be CHRIST-LIKE SERVANTLEADERS. And because we are servant-leaders, we should live the way how Christ has lived.
5
Buk
News
Rey Ariel Belisario
2ND YFC HIGH SCHOOL HIGH:
M
aramag Central Elementary School – July 26, 2014. A day cherished by the high school students. More than 700 active and energetic high school students from more than 15 schools all over Bukidnon. The said conference was for high school students who are YFC and non-YFC members to show their talents in Band, One Voice, and Set Dance for creative competitions, and Basketball, Volleyball, Football, Badminton, and Table Tennis for sports competitions. The provincial-wide event has its theme “Jumpstart!” along with its anchor verse, Phil. 4:6 “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” The theme means that life is a very long journey towards God. We encounter a lot of rough roads that could weaken and
slow us down. It’s your choice to slow down or continue with a high speed. Sometimes, we need to slow down but… don’t stop the journey. “In this journey, quitting was never an option” – Rey Ariel Belisario, YFC Bukidnon High School Program Head. If we felt that we’re going too weak, all we need to do is to refuel ourselves by the help of our family, friends, brothers and sisters in the community, prayer, and most importantly, God. Allow yourself to be with God in your journey. The event was started by the highest form of prayer, the Holy Mass. After it, was an Opening Worship led by a high school student and a YFC from San Isidro College, Anjon Fredrick Mamunta. The Oath of Sportsmanship was led by Dwaine Varias and after it the competitions began. This were actively participated by the high school students. After all
of the games were played, an inspirational talk was delivered by Fritz Lyslie Sister, who shared her life when she was still in high school and until she became a YFC. After she shared her life as a high school students, the crowd shouted and sang their praises as the Praise Fest began. This was led by Rey Ariel Belisario. Everyone on the team worked hard for the Lord’s event and we did all our best for it. Indeed God was very good for the success of His event. Thru this activity, we can evangelize and inspire youths and prove to them that Church-based activities are not boring. We are one with the Lord, in everything we do and we’ll keep on serving the Lord even in our rough road moments and at the end, always bring back the glory and praise to our God.
6
Buk News Isidrans Rock YFC High School High 2014
M
aramag Central Elementary School – July 26, 2014. A day truly remembered by the 40 Isidrans who were part of more than 600 youth who joined the CFC Youth for Christ’s High School High 2014 with a theme, Jumpstart. The HSH is a sort of conference intended for both YFCs and non-YFCs in high school filled with creative competitions, sports and talks.
7
The conference began with a Holy Eucharist and was succeeded by an opening worship. The conference was then opened by the Couple Coordinator of Kibawe, Tito Nestor Sabud and at once, the creative and sports
Anjon Fredrick C. Mamunta
competition began. Isidrans did not back down from the challenges, as they joined 4 competitions; Soccer, Volleyball, Badminton (Mixed Doubles) and Set Dance. The Isidrans’ Soccer team won as the champion and the Volleyball team as the 1st runner up. After the competitions were through, a talk was given by Ate Fritz Lyslie Sister, sharing her experiences during her high school years and telling them how God guided her to the right path until she became a YFC. Before the conference ended, they had a Praise Fest, led by Kuya Rey Ariel Belisario, a proud Isidran
graduate, and the YFC High School-Based Program Head of Bukidnon, and not a single soul was left unblessed after the conference ended. With more and more Isidrans acknowledging the presence of YFC in the campus, it would really be a step forward if a YFC High School-Based organization be created in our campus. Especially, since this coming September, there would be another conference and it would be pleasing if we would be supported by the high school faculty in our endeavors.
Buk
News
CABUSTAM Meeting & Outing
S
corching feeling with a handful of sweat at the middle of the night, malodourous smell everywhere and the bumpingfrenzy of the bus were just a few struggles that we’ve encountered while we’re on our way to Lianga. To top it all, we got stranded in the bus for 4 and a half hour while savoring the abovementioned challenges because a landslide occurred somewhere in Balingasag, Misamis Oriental. We were about to give up; we were about to step out of the bus and go back to Bukidnon and join the DYFT Formation and Renewal instead. But the odds were on our side. At the brink of giving up, the engine of the bus started to go ‘broooom’ and everyone woke up with excitement and a humungous sigh of relief. At long last, I and Jorrie is again on our way to Lianga, Surigao del Sur to
Aaron Don V. Salvaña
attend the regular CABUSTAM Meeting. We arrived at exactly 3:00 in the afternoon together with the youth ministers of Butuan Diocese. A saying goes like “it’s better late than never” and so it’s true to us. Just a few minutes after our arrival, the meeting that was one-day late started with Fr. Richard Bantugan, the youth director of the Diocese of Tandag as the presider. Matters concerning the sub-region were discussed. The body first discussed the compiling of documents. In line with this, Fr. Richard said that at the end of every congress, documents should be properly turnedover so that the next host diocese and at the same time the council would not have a hard time during their tenure as the council. He emphasized that it should not only be the congress statement and key
which will be trusted over, but also all the region’s documents for filing and all the necessary information from the arch/ dioceses of the region for proper profiling. One move to address this is to request the member-dioceses to look for CABUSTAM documents in their respective offices and bring it next meeting so that the compilation will be started. Another Important subject that was discussed is about the Congress Statement. It has been traditioned that after every congress a statement should be produced and ideally this should be a benchmark for the dioceses in their annual pastoral plans. RB, the Diocesan Youth Coordinator of Butuan added that the previous statements were used as bases in drafting formations and programs of the regional council and arch/ dioceses. He said that it is continued to page 39
8
Buk News MALAYBALAY CITY— Padayong giduso sa mga miyembro sa Asian Federation Against Involuntary Disappearances (AFAD) ug sa Families of Victims of Involuntary Disappearance (FIND) ang pagpa-implementa sa Republic Act (RA) 10353 kun mas inila isip Anti-Enforced or Involuntary Disappearance Act of 2012. Tinambongan sa mga kauban sa media ug mga lumilihok sa Social Action ug sa komisyon sa mga kabatan-onan (Shiela C. Lumambas, Aaron Don V. Salvaña, Joven C. Dela Peña) sa Romano Katolikong Simbahan sa Diyosesis sa Malaybalay,
DCY m
nahitabo ang usa ka panagtigom niadtong Hunyo 4, 2014 sa DFC 1, Impalambong, Malaybalay City, agi’g paghatag ug dugang kasayuran sa RA 10353 ingon man usab sa padayong gingbuhaton sa AFAD ug FIND. Nahimong mga dinapit nga bisita sila si Mary Aileen DiezBacalso, ang Secretary-General sa AFAD ug si Nilda LagmanSevilla, ang co-chairperson sa FIND; parehong nakasinati sa enforced disappearance gumikan sa pagkawala sa ilang mga mahal sa kinabuhi. Mahitungod sa RA 10353 Gipasabot sa AFAD ug FIND ang kamahinungdanon sa RA
10353 ilabina nga daghan pang desaparecido ang padayon pang gipangita ug anaa pa usab mga kasamtangang kaso sa disaparecido dili lang sa Pilipinas apan sa ubang nasud. Principal author sa RA 10353 si Albay Representative Edcel Lagman ug nahisulat nga ang maong balaod midawat sa depinasyon sa enforced disappearance ubos sa International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (ICPAPED). Gikonsidera niini ang pagsikop, pagbilanggo, pagdagit ug uban pang matang sa paghikaw sa kagawasan nga buhaton sa mga miyembro sa
Participants happily pose as they show thier AFAD Stement Shirt off happily
9
Buk
News
miapil sa AFAD ug FIND Advocacy Awareness Conference Estado o sa mga tawo o grupo sa mga tawo nga gihatagan sa Estado og suporta ug gahum sa pagbuhat sa ingon, lakip na ang pagbalibad sa pag-ila nga gihikawan sa kagawasan o gitago ang nahimutangan o kapalaran sa desaperecido, ug diin magpahimutang sa desaparecido gawas sa proteksyon sa balaod. (Art. 2, ICPAPED; Sec.3 (b), RA 10353) Tulo ka mga elemento ang gikabutyag aron mapailalom ang maong gingbuhaton sa enforced disappearance: Una, pugsanong paghikaw sa kagawasan; ikaduha, kalabutan sa mga awtoridad sa estado o mga public officers, bisan
Shiela C. Lumambas
kadtong mituman o misugot lamang sa maong mando; ug ang ikatulo mao ang pagdumili sa pag-ila nga gihikawan sa kagawasan o ang dili pagbutyag sa nahimutangan ug gidangatan sa biktima. Kahibaloan nga pinakauna ang Pilipinas sa tibuok nasud sa Asya nga mipirma aron mamahimong balaod ang AntiEnforced Disappearance Act of 2012. Reclusion perpetua o life imprisonment ang gilakip sa balaod nga mamahimong dangatan sa mga personaheng mobuhat sa ingon. Gikan sa kaagi Ang bana ni Bacalso nawala
Mary Aileen Diez-Bacalso, Secretary General sa AFAD PHilippines mipaambit sa mga adbokasiya sa organisasyon
niadtong 1988, duha ka bulan human sila gikasal ug panahon usab sa diktadoryang Marcos. Sa usa ka artikulo mahitungod niya, mipaambit si Bacalso sa mga mosunod nga pulong, “Like in Argentina’s last military dictatorship, the Philippine government made him disappear in the name of getting rid of “subversion”. They claimed my husband was treasurer of the Communist Party. Seven armed men kidnapped him in public, forcing him into a car without a license plate, shouting that he was a thief. I immediately reported the case to an NGO of forced disappearances and searched for him for three months in different military camps. But my husband was released only after a prisoner held with him escaped, and sent me an anonymous note telling me where he was being held. I told the military officials that I knew where he was and the next day they released him. They said they would release him on the condition that I stop my human rights work, saying I would be killed. I said OK but it only inspired me to work harder— it was a turning point in my activism.” continued to page 36
10
Buk News
T
he 61st National Assembly of Diocesan M i s s i o n Directors were organized by the Pontifical Mission Societies, in collaboration with the Episcopal Commission on Mission last June 30 to July 3, 2014 at the Jesuit Retreat House , Malaybalay City, Bukidnon. �Renewing
Diocese Mission Direct
Missionary Commitment: Insights from Evangelii Gaudium� was the theme of the gathering. The assembly started with an opening mass at the San Isidro Labrador Cathedral in Malaybalay with the Bishop of the Diocese, Bishop Jose A. Cabantan, D.D. as the main celebrant and
The Mission Directors of the different Ecclesiastical Territories in the Philippines pose for a souvenir photo after the opening mass at San Isidro Labrador Cathedral, Malaybalay City
11
homilist. In his homily, the bishop recalled the Jesuit missionaries who toiled and labored for the spread of the gospel in the diocese. They sacrificed their time, talent and treasure in order to nurture the local church in Bukidnon. A welcome dinner followed the Mass for the participating delegates
Fr. Soc Missiona, the National Mission Director together with Fr. Art Paraiso, the Mission Direct of the Diocese of Malaybalay as they hand the Plaque of Appreciation to Bishop Jose Cabantan Malaybalay for hosting the PMS National Direc Conference
Buk
News
of Malaybalay Hosted tors’ Annual Assembly Anthony S.P. Dameg
Formation Coordinator Pontifical Mission Societies-Philippines
and the affair was graced by the presence of the Governor of the Province, The Honorable Jose Ma. Zubiri.
Francis. He pointed out that the Holy father challenges every Catholic Christian to be a missionary of our time; he even emphasized that The following day, Bishop we are all called to be Honesto Pacana, SJ, DD., joyful evangelizers of the Bishop-Emeritus of the gospel. Diocese of Malaybalay led the participants to There are about ninetyreflect on the Apostolic one participants Exhortation of Pope representing fifty-nine
arch/dioceses, prelatures and apostolic vicariates who attended the assembly. The Chairman of the Episcopal Commission on Mission and Bishop of the Diocese Sorsogon, the Most Rev. Arturo M. Bastes, SVD, DD, also attended the assembly.
tor
n of ctors’
The Local Youth Volunteers in their Kaamulan attire together with the National PMS Staff pose for a souvenir picture as they wait for the delegates to arrive.
The staff of the National PMS Office jive to the beat of rethro music during the Social Night
12
Buk News
Have you ever heard about “Sweetie”? Did you have a chance to meet, to talk and to see her perform? Maybe you’re puzzled who is this Sweetie I am referring to. She is not your fellow citizen next door but actually, she is everybody’s neighbour and friend in the web. She is a 10-year o l d Filipina and is very
Aris Jay Lapizar
Sweetie was created by a web designer from The Netherlands. She was made to look like a Filipina in order to attract customers worldwide. Her job was to perform different erotic and sexual acts in front of the camera for a substantial payment. Sweetie can perform many exhibitions compared to real women because she is computer generated. Its maker chooses a Filipina physique because of its demand even though she was made from The Netherlands. Over 10 weeks, 20,000 people from 71 countries approached the fake girl.
This August, the Al Jazeera cable channel will feature a series of documentaries regarding the rampant “cyberporn” market of our country. Philippines is one of the leading source of worldwide pornography and mostly children ages 6 months to 15 years old were the main victims. Sad to say, it’s the parents who most of the time send their children into pornography. Their innocence was manipulated in exchange for a little amount of foreign money. In some cases, they were seduced in a promise of better work and payment in big cities and turned out to be bound as another victim of human trafficking. What is human trafficking? Basically, it is tantamount to modern day slavery. In the year 2000, United Nations (UN) reached an agreement to determine human trafficking into 3 critical components. First is “act”. It answers the question “What is done?” It is either in the form of illegal recruitment, transportation and harbouring of receipts and people. Second is “means”. How is this done? It is in the use of force or other means of coercion, abduction, fraudulence, deception, abuse of power, continued to page 39
G AN IN M CK HU FI AF TR
13
famous abroad who surpassed the popularity of our local artists in terms of followers. You want to meet her? Do you?
Remegio E. Bayabos, Jr.
T
Batangan Parish
alitha Koum, literally means “Inday, bangon”, was the theme of the Second General Assembly of the Saint Bernadette Youth Apostolate hosted by the youth of Saint Bernadette Sub-Parish last July 27, 2014. For us youth, this verse which is found in the gospel book that is written by Saint Mark (Chapter 5, Verse 14) calls a lot of attention. It was a right time to remind the Catholic youth, the hope of the fatherland and the Church, that Jesus has always been in action to awaken and help us rise to put into practice our spiritual and social responsibility to Him and His people. About 138 young devotees gathered all the way from the 20 different chapels (grouped into five zones) under the Saint
Bernadette Sub-Parish. Each has actively responded to the said meeting and reacted to the different concerns raised in the meeting. Miss Girlie Rose A. Carreon-Magdato, an active youth apostolate leader on her time, gave her input about leadership, especially in the Church, and the responsibilities of being a leader, most noticeably, in a kind of an environment we have today known to be so full of political issues and crises. Ate Girlie inspired the youth a lot and taught everyone that it is Jesus, the perfect model of leadership, we have to follow. Although there are a lot of challenges at stake in the youth apostolate, say conflict schedules especially for students and employed youth, limited sources during activities, misunderstanding with the elders and sometimes,
Buk
in the name of the
News
Lord
Rising up
absence of parental consents, the youth were encouraged to continue in their service to the Lord. She also showed two music videos that has significance in the lifestyle of our society today. One is “Tatsulok” by Bamboo which exposes the bad image of our government and how the youth must have been reacted (Totoy bilisan mo, bilisan mo ang takbo/Ilagan ang mga bombang nakatutok sa ulo mo/ Totoy tumalon ka/dumapa kung kailangan/At baka tamaan pa ng mga balang ligaw) and followed by “We Are The Reason” by Gary Valenciano which touched the hearts of the participants especially in the lyrics, (We were the reason/That He gave His life/We were the reason/ Jesus suffered and died). It was, indeed, a heartwarming talk to continued to page 40
14
Buk News MALINAO PYA ON Bernadeth Valiente/Aris Jay Lapizar
T
he Parish Youth Apostolate of Saint Dominic Sub-Parish, Malinao, Kalilangan, Bukidnon underwent a big leap towards the restructuring of its dwindling organization. Answering the call of God to serve fellow young people belonging to the jurisdiction of this young parish, a solemn election of the new set of officers was done last June 08, 2014 at exactly 4 o’clock in the afternoon at the parish convent. It was facilitated by its energetic coordinator, Mr. Fredie Baluran. The said election resulted to the selection of Ms. Bernadeth Valiente as a new parish youth leader. She is a junior high school student of the said barangay. Even if she is still young, she
15
already have years of experience serving the parish as sacristan and a youth member. Other officers who will handle essential positions were also chosen. After the election, a short meeting followed. To further affirm their commitment to serve wholeheartedly, a momentous oath-taking ceremony was held last June 29, 2014 inside the church. This was done before the offering of the gifts in the Holy Mass. Fr. Mar Chia, their ever young at heart parish priest led the installation rite. The new set of officers was then introduced to the congregation, informing the parishioners of Malinao that the local church is alive with young people willing
ire
to follow the footstep of the Redeemer through the intercession of their patron, Saint Dominic. The said ceremony added more fire to the heart of everybody. At present, the young group serve the church in their simple ways through mass sponsorship by doing lector works, choir and church cleaning. They are also developing their weekly BEC session and praying of the Holy Rosary following the example of St. Dominic. Aside from these regular schedules, Malinao PYA is now beginning to prepare for the upcoming big event of DYDekada. All of these early successes were all attributed to the Almighty God who is the source of all. Let us all keep the fire burning!
Fea
An Invitation for Change
tures
Environmental Stewardship: Aris Jay Lapizar
T
oday, we are living in the world of constant change especially in our environment. Nowadays, we can picture our environment as God’s perfect creation where variety of plants grow, breeds of
animals dwell and human beings taking care of it. It can be compared to paradise where everything is in harmony. Looking at different issues on our environment today, we might say that it is not happening but we must accept the reality that it is happening. Our environment is in peril and we are in peril too. Various factors had sprouted w h i c h contribute to its gradual destruction. What are the causes of this problem? Sad to say but we human beings are the main architect of this dilemma. We are the one destroying our ecosystem. In our quest for what we believe as real development ,we fail to acknowledge the delicate role of our environment. Oftentimes, our development goal is
focus only on our personal sanctification. We are not thinking of what lies ahead or what will be left out behind. We are only thinking of our environment as perpetual source of resources either to be exploited and wasted. Greediness, negligence and mankinds unlimited desires seem to be the cause of this entire problem. God said; “The road to perdition is wide; broad is the path of greed, self-centeredness. Perhaps, climate change and global warming are the biggest environmental issues of our time. This phenomenon hits us very badly and affects our way of life. Over the years various remedies had been introduce to halt this crisis. Some efforts succeeded partly such as tree planting programs, awareness campaign, the passage of environmental protection laws and others. But the destruction is still going. The task of protecting continued to page 40
16
Fea tures
Panunuyo ni Ju
Noon a
Vincent A. Acodile
Noon si Juan ay napakasipag kung manuyo sa binibining kanyang napupusuan.Laging dumadalaw sa bahay ni dalaga, at masuyong hinaharana. Siya rin ay gumagawa ng mga sulat na laman ay ang matamis niyang pag-ibig para lamang sa kanya. Kasabay nito ang bulaklak na talaga namang gustung-gusto niya. Kasama din sa nililigawan ang mga magulang. Handa ring magpaalila marinig lang ang matamis niyang ‘’oo’’. Dito mo mapapatunayan ang tapat niyang panunuyo. Ganyan si Juan kung manuyo, matiyaga, masipag, magalang, malambing, tapat, at higit sa lahat ay kakayaning gawin para mapatunayang tunay,tapat, at totoo ang kanyang pag-ibig para sa minamahal nyang binibini. Kontento na sya sa kanyang nag-iisang iniibig at wala ng pakialam pa sa ibang babae sa paligid kahit pa mas maganda pa ito sa kanyang sinusuyo.
17
Fea
at Ngayon
tures
uan
Ngayon naman si Juan ay naging moderno na, ibang istilo ang gamit sa panliligaw.Wala ng harana hindi na daw kasi uso, wala ng ‘’love letter’’, ang baduy na daw kasi. Hindi na dumadalaw sa bahay upang magpaalam sa magulang ng dalaga na sya ay manliligaw. Hindi pa raw naman sya sinasagot e, bakit sya magpapakilala? Wala na ring bulaklak na ibinibigay kundi mabulaklak na lamang na pananalita para mapasagot ang nililigawan.Ganito na ang paraan niya sa panliligaw ngayon, gamit ang ‘’cellphone’’. Magte-text lang sya at magtatanong kung pwede ba manligaw at dito na rin niya sasabihin ang ‘’pagmamahal’’ niyang tinatawag sa dalaga. Pagkatapos ng ilang araw, nabola niya ang dalaga at instant may syota na siya. Kung tawagin ng mga kabataan ngayon pinaikli ng salitang ‘’short time’’. Ang dating tapat na si Juan ay naging bolero na hindi lamang sa isang dalaga nanliligaw kundi may iba pa.Hindi sya kontento na isa lang ang syota, katwiran nya mas marami, mas maganda at mas mapapatunayan niya ang kakisigan niya bilang isang binata.
18
Fea tures
The choice of Forgiveness Joven Dela C. Peña Jr.
M
ost of the grounds that Satan gain in the lives of Christians are due to unforgiveness. We were warned to forgive others so that Satan cannot take advantage of us. God requires us to forgive others from our hearts or He will turn us over the tormentors. Why is forgiveness so critical to our freedom? Because of the cross. He gave us what we needed according to His mercy. wW are to be merciful just as our Heavenly Father is merciful. We are to forgive as we have been forgiven.
19
Forgiveness is not forgetting. People who try to forget find that they couldn’t. God said He will “remember no
more our sins”, but God, being omniscient, cannot forget. “Remember no more” means that God will never use the past against us. Forgetting may be a result of forgiveness, but it is never the means of forgiveness. When we bring up the past and use it against others, we haven’t forgiven them. Forgiveness is a choice, a crisis of will. We choose to face and acknowledge the hurt and the hate in order to forgive from the heart. since God requires us to forgive, it is something we can do. But forgiveness is difficult for us because it pulls against our concept of justice. We want revenge for offenses suffered, but we were also
told never to take our own revenge . “Why I let them off God’s hook?” We protest. You let them off your hook but they were never off God’s hook. He will deal with them fairly—something we cannot do. If you don’t let offenders off your hook, you are hooked to them and the past, and that just means continued pain for you. Stop the pain ; and let it go. You don’t forgive someone merely for their sake, you do it for your sake so you can be free. The need to forgive isn’t an issue between you and the offender, its between you and God.
Getting Old
Fea
Gin Rey “BUGOY” Brillantes
tures
The truth of
T
his is a scary stage in which everyone cannot escape no matter how many billions of money we spend: getting old. Go to Belo to deform our faceand become young and conducive again, still the reality of getting old is there. Why do such thing when in fact it isin our nature as human being to get old? The old people in the society play an important role because of their wisdom. “The untold mind set of an old carries baggage from the young”, an author said. It is impossible to describe the full maturity of the old age and capture some of the lights radiating from their experiences. Even how predicament the surrounding is, they still could joke a lot. Aside from being a source of joy to the young and giving advices to the lost ones, they also mark the history with “traditions”. On the other hand, old people were used to have their superstitious belief: Cutting nails and combing hair during night time. In addition to that, they have this “Mano po” tradition. This is a very important trait in which all Filipino possessed. Hence, old age is going weaker, bones are getting looser, having back aches and osteoporosis, but the very significance of getting old is that their strength may slowly decreasing but their brain has never get weak and their hearts are still full of roses with tenderness and carefulness. Now, are you afraid to get old? You shouldn’t.
20
Fea tures 21
Aris Jay Lapizar
T
he period ranging from 15th to 16th century was considered as the age of discoveries. It was in this era that powerful European nations compete for a portion of land in the New World that would be considered as their colonies. The tiny kingdom of Portugal leads the way in this vast enterprise. Basically, navigators were accompanied by missionaries committed to spread the Christian faith… ”Gold, Gospel and Glory” seems to be the familiar slogan. In the year 1521, Spaniards led by Ferdinand Magellan found
WHO ARE WE AS FILIPINO the Philippine Archipelago. Historically, his fleet was in search of the famous Moluccas Island and happened to have landed in the island of either Limasawa in Cebu or Masau in Butuan. Historians called it as an accident. Perhaps God really willed it to happen. This incident opens the way to the colonization and evangelization of the Philippines. Waves of religious orders as well as Spanish colonizers continue to arrive. Those priests proclaim Christ as Lord to the local inhabitants. Through the tireless efforts of those early missionaries, the Philippine archipelago was
Christianized except to some parts of Mindanao and Sulu. Those early missionaries were real bearers of the gospel of Christ. Looking back at our rich history, we could see the bright cradle of our religiosity. Starting from our ancestor’s belief, the Anito as the Supreme Being, followed by the long reign of the Spaniards who introduced Christianity, to the attempts of enculturation by the protestant Americans. At present, we are holding the title as the only Christian nation in Asia except for the tiny nation of east Timor. Sad to say that despite our
Fea
tures
CATHOLICS? rich religiosity, our nation has also become the haven of widespread corruption and rampant poverty, prostitution, killings and other forms of abuses. These indicators deprive us of our real essence as a Filipino Catholic. We become Catholics only by lips but not in our hearts and actions. In the year 2021, we will celebrate the 500th year of our Catholicity. Indeed we had undergone a long journey of faith. Along with this journey, we encounter struggles in faith, dryness of spirit that tests our perseverance. In
spite of all of these, we never cease to believe in the “Good News” that Jesus Christ was risen from the dead and that He came to save us from the bondage of sin. Our love for Christ and His mother became our way of life. By imitating the kingdom values, we are able to develop our own identity as Catholics and authentically as Filipinos. But who are we as Filipino Catholics? What are our indicators? Catholicism for Filipino Catholics identified Filipinos as Family-oriented. We value our relationships with our parents, with our siblings, relatives and even to our extended
families. We consider this of prime importance into our lives. In this circle of people, we are able to develop our sense of identity. During our childhood, we were taught to respect them, accompanied by affectionate gestures of “Mano po” and kissing of the foreheads. From our families we have belongingness and security. Filipinos are also known as Meal-Oriented. With this, we are manifesting our deepest understanding of the meaning of life and that is to consider everybody as part of our family. We are known for continued to page 23
22
Fea tures 23
Who are we...
our hospitality in giving the best we could for our guests. The element of “salo-salo” does not show our pride and boastfulness but it is because we just want our guest to feel at home. During fiesta, birthdays, baptisms and other family celebrations, we could invite many guests especially loved ones into our homes and in return, we would receive the same invitation. Everybody does not want to suffer but we Filipinos loved to sacrifice especially for those people who are special to us. We are so willing to taste the hardships of life and to endure serious trials that this complex life could offer. We are not quitting easily. Even branded as a martyr, “tanga” or numb does not stop us to continue persevering in the variety of problems we are encountering. We understood that the real meaning of life lies in our act of sacrifice. This attitude manifested our being kundimanoriented. Bayani-oriented is also identifiable of being Filipino. We are not afraid to commit for our aspirations and ideals. For us, it’s better to die with dignity than to die doing nothing. We loved to defend the weak and oppress, and ready to lay down our lives for the sake of family and country. In our veins run the blood of heroes. It was earlier manifested in our struggles to gain our independence and EDSA People power. Our traditional belief in the supernatural beings shows our being Spirit-oriented. We give high reverence to persons, places and things because a supernatural spirit was dwelling in them. Although
Fea
tures
“
...the title attributed to us, “Pueblo Amante de Maria” was the most treasured and widely practiced. We Filipinos are known to be people in love with Mary.
“
Who are we...
most practices were already exaggerated and fanaticized, we still never cease to believe that those spirits may either harm us or would give us good fortune. Oftentimes, we invoke them to give us abundant harvest, sound health, success in our undertakings and many more. Thus, our practices of uttering “tabi-tabi po” every time we pass a termite mound or any enchanted places was developed because we are afraid to harm those spirits dwelling in that particular place. The orientation we possess points out as authentic Filipino. Identifying and integrating those practices into our faith would make us as authentic Catholics. Our Savior Himself is a perfect model of a familyoriented man who loves His mother and father. The Holy Family was Jesus’ identity. He is also a meal-oriented in the
Holy Eucharist as He gathers all of us to partake in His Paschal Meal – the Bread of Life. In this banquet, He invites us to become His real brothers and sisters. His image of a suffering servant makes him Kundiman-oriented. He is not counting at our weaknesses, failures and sinfulness but He is there ready to forgive us. There is no other great bayani than Jesus Christ who died for all of us fulfilling His mission as prophet, king and priest at the cost of His own life. In His nature as God, Christ is supernatural, transcendental and even more. Finally, of all the title attributed to us, “Pueblo Amante de Maria” was the most treasured and widely practiced. We Filipinos are known to be people in love with Mary. We approach Christ through the intercession of His mother , which is also our mother. It is a usual panorama in homes,
shops, offices, cars and business establishments of Filipino families, the images and icons of our mother. Throughout the year, we honor her in different festivities. Her shrines are scatter all over the country. Our devotion to her signifies our trust in her son. We as the advent of modern times, various alien cultures were introduced into our country. This culture seemed to harm and tamper us of our real identity, of our real understanding of the meaning of life, of our response to suffering, of our commitment and of our view of the world. Ours is a cultural revolution that causes shattered homes and families. For this to be counted, we must look back at the roots of our faith and discover our unique and authentic Filipino Catholicity.
24
Fea tures 25
I n English he is called Saint John Vianney. He was born on May 8, 1786 in the village of Dardilly in France. After serving a time in the army during the Napoleonic period, he entered the seminary formation to become a priest. He had a very difficult time. He struggled mightily with all of his studies and he had a particularly difficult time with Latin. Many, including his formation directors and instructors in the seminary and his own bishop, had very serious doubts that this man who did not
have
s t r o n g intellectual g i f t s , would be suitable for the priesthood. However, John Vianney persevered and finally was ordained a priest in 1815. His bishop, acting on his estimation of this new priest as a man of few gifts, sent him to the remotest backwater village of his diocese, the village of Ars. There Fr. John Vianney spent the rest of his life except for one brief period when he tried to flee the duties and pressures of parish life and to find a quiet place where he could pray in peace and solitude. That was not in God’s plan for him and he soon returned to Ars. He was a man of great
Our Model S
ST. JEAN-BAPTISTE MARIE V CurĂŠ
Fea
tures
dedication to his call to be a priest and to serve his people. He preached in a very simple manner, had a great love of the Blessed Sacrament and the Blessed Mother and he had a special devotion to St. Philomena. Through his work as a confessor he brought about a spiritual renewal that touched not only the people of his parish but all of France. He regularly spent 14 to 18 hours a day in the confessional surviving on only a few hours of sleep and a diet of boiled potatoes. As the word spread of his extraordinary abilities as a confessor, thousands, including bishops and aristocracy, made the journey to Ars in order to receive his
spiritual counsel. Thus a man who started his life as one who very few thought would ever amount to anything became, by the time of his death in 1859, the vehicle for thousands of conversions. He is, for us today, an example of how God works wonderfully through those who dedicate their lives to him and who seek to do his will. John Vianney, a humble parish priest, is regarded by the Church as one of its great figures simply because he was faithful. John Vianney was canonized by Pope Pius XI in 1925. He is the only diocesan priest ever to be canonized. He is the patron saint of clergy throughout the world. His feast day is August 4.
Saint
VIANNEY of Ars
26
A Story to tell
Whew…I find it hard to tell things that I have been keeping for a long time. I have been keeping it for months. It sounds pretty absurd but I’d rather say it before it’s too late.
I know that we are not meant for each other because what I am seeing in her eyes and in her actions are just friendly feelings. I’m sorry if this is complicated. I just don’t know how to start it. The pain is killing me within and no matter how hard I try to conceal it, the more it wants to show. I know that I have wasted too much time not telling her how much she means to me. I keep on telling myself that a person in love is not a coward and he must be ready to face the consequences of what he has done no matter what it was. Words are as important as actions. It’s so difficult to admit but I had failed to say what I ought to say. I was hesitant. I was scared. I was afraid. I was afraid of the possible reactions I would get from her predominantly since she is denying what I have been waiting for so long. It is only now that I realize that nothing is as scary
27
and as painful as the idea of not telling her how I feel. If I will not tell her this, I’ll regret it for the rest of my life because I know in my heart that she’s the only one that makes me happy. I myself am suffering from the miserable silence as time passes by. I have no way of holding her because she have finally chosen the path where I can never be. I have gathered the scattered pieces but, amidst of all the tears, struggles and pains, I was afraid to tell her that I still even care for her. I tried to ignore her presence every time she’s near, for I thought that it was the most possible way of forgetting my feelings for her. But it seemed that fate did not conspire with me. She misinterpreted the things I did. I don’t know but it seems like she have noticed my feelings for her. Perhaps she think what I’m doing is unusual and perhaps she believe that I did things on purpose. But no, I just want to claim my right to express myself. I don’t want to be hurt every time I see her with somebody. The pain is so unbearable. Sometimes I can’t help asking God why He allowed us to meet and made my feelings for her grow deeper when He knows that it’s not meant. But on the other hand,
In my confession room
Let Her
GO by: #HunterHayes_13
I am thankful to Him for letting us meet. I never regretted the days and nights we spent together as good friends. I’ll treasure them for the rest of my life. I know at the beginning that we’d remain friends, nothing more than that. Sometimes, I tell myself how foolish I am to fall in love to a woman who doesn’t love and care for me. It really hurts yet I accepted the truth
that this is a one-sided love affair. Sometimes, the one you love turns out to be the one who would hurt you so much. And now I must learn how to forgive and give myself a chance to find a better place in somebody else’s heart. This is the only chance I have. I love her, but I don’t want to lose her as my very special friend.
28
Musings
L
ife, we n e v e r k n o w what’s going to happen next. You may be massively happy at this point but who knows the next moment you might feel the urge to hurt somebody because of anger or hatred. We never know, but we do have a choice on what to do. In certain problems perhaps, you are given the choice to just let it be or solve it. Life will give us the hardest problems we could ever encounter, problems which will help us find ourselves and
29
Angelie Bago
problems which will help us realize that not all things we wanted are given to us. Observing from the revolving world, I hear a lot of “what if’s”, what if I did that? What if I chose that? What if I did not? Or what if I did? Really, a lot. But beyond all those what if’s, we all find ways to make things right. Young, old, big or small we live equally around this world. Rich, poor, smart or wise, God made
Musings
900 Words
& Counting...
us all with love and pride. But what did we do with the things He gave us all? Sometimes we even forget to thank Him, even with the simplest things that He bestowed. Let us learn to value life and live it to the fullest we can. A song of my own favorite band says “live while were young”, true enough we must all do that for our lives are only borrowed, not permanent. Time will come He will take us back to His loving arms or the other way around. We may come to think that we carry the whole world with the problems we have, but come to think of it, it’s not only you but many other people around. We may come to a point where we always wanted to give-up, give-up on the things we
it.
love, we care for and we cherish, but most of the time it’s all worth
Life was, is and always will never be easy to be exact. It is an endless journey. It is an endless battle. People come and go, seasons change, problems come popping, and happiness comes in a bundle of joy. Let us learn to choose, choose on what we think is best, not only for ourselves but also for the welfare of others around us; the people we love and the people we care for. Learn to forgive, especially yourself. We may not know that that was your last chance of seeing that person, and you did not get the chance to thank him or her for
every single bit of goodness he or she has done for you. Take every moment to see life in the most positive way you can. Take every day as a challenge. And take every second to do a good deed. Yes it is okay to fail once in a while, we may choose to fail or we just simply fail. Failure gives us lessons, lessons we learn that teaches us to never do that mistake again. As a result, we learn a lot from the things we do and from the things that others do. Let us all learn to value life and time, for these are continued to page 41
30
Musings
Windie Beth Q. Zafra
A
ll of us have a certain amount of baggage that we carry today and from our past. Some of us carry lighter loads than others. Some learned how to let go because it will seriously won’t result to anything good and wanted to continue experiencing the greatness of life. The past has been on my mind a lot lately. I recently helped my mother sort out some boxes and gave me few things that brought back memories. Then, there’s a box containing my childhood memorabilia. As I went through them, time scroll back and I remembered those days; several years ago. I laughed while scanning the pictures and a certain picture caught my attention – a picture of the first youth gathering I attended and the day I started in the Youth Ministry, specifically in our chapel as the Youth Secretary. Several years had passed and I am blessed enough and proud to claim that I am a BukYo! Though I had
31
Look Back to
regrets on some choices I had made before, rest assured that being in the Youth Ministry is one of the best things that ever happened in my life. I am thankful to our ates and kuyas before for without them, I may not be in the ministry now. Time will come in life, aside from the happy moments, that hurt will emanate from your being. Just like any other teenager, I experienced what a normal teen is experiencing and had a painful heartache too that I found hard to get over with. I pretended to be fine but deep inside, my wounded heart is still in agony every night. I realized that the truth will set me free. “Face the reality”, some say.
Looking back to the past could help us learn lessons from other people and for us to not make the same mistakes and most importantly, to be reminded of God’s grace and love. Dietrich Bonhoeffer s a i d , “Because God’s word h a s
spoken to us in history and thus in the past, the remembrance and repetition of what we have learned is a necessary daily exercise. Everyday, we must turn again to God’s acts of salvation, so that we can again move forward. Faith and obedience live on remembrance and repetition. Remembrance becomes the power of the present because of the living God who once acted for me and who reminds me of that today.” There are many worries and fears in this life. So many things pull our focus onto the trials at hand. That’s when we need to look back to the past, where Jesus Christ showed His love and grace for
Musings
See Forward
us at the cross. Like the stones that Joshua laid on the other side of the Jordan River, the cross stands as a testimony for all time that God can deliver us from our greatest fear, the greatest evil, and the greatest obstacle in our life. We need to look back and remember His grace. For it gives us confidence and assurance that He will sustain us in the present and carry us in the future through our past. Whatever we have from our past, God wants us to keep all those memories. There is no harm in going back down memory lane from time to time with many of the good things or bad things that may have occurred in our past. Our past is a part of who we are and who we have become in the Lord. Even continued to page 41
32
Musings
? WHAT
HAVE
WE
DO
NE
33
Charmain Grace Casquite
T
he movie was in its CLIMAX and I was in the state of CONCENTRATION since the bad dragon in the castle has awakened and the protagonists tried to kill it but they failed to do so. Then the dragon will take its revenge by attacking the innocent people of the village and while it was flying (to the village), the main character asked in horror, “WHAT HAVE WE DONE?” and the movie suddenly stopped…the screen
went black…credits rolled… and I was like… ” W H A A A A A A AT ? ? ? ! ! TAPOOOS NA?? YUN NA YUN??” “What have we done?” This statement and the scene has disturbed me since then. Later on, I realized it reminded me of something. It reminded me of doing the right thing. Of doing the better we can on anything…to think before doing…to understand… to be sensitive, before we find ourselves asking the same question: “What have we/I done?” Like that movie, there are always that bad dragon in our lives. There are always that bad side of us – anger, sorrow, greed, arrogance, immorality…
Tell me, who have none? And there are also those heroes – love, affection, joy, care, sympathy, understanding… And I strongly believe that even the most vicious criminal has something good in himself. But who do we feed the most? The dragon or the heroes? In this modern world we live today, seriously, who do we feed the most? It is disappointing that most of us are not aware of our actions – if it is still GOOD or NOT, if it is still HELPFUL or NOT, if we are becoming SELFLESS or SELFISH. We are too attracted by many things. We let ourselves get distracted by so many things, and that keep us away from the reality of what is really happening
around us. Again, are you aware of who you feed? I’ll tell you, let us be SENSITIVE. Let us not let our dragons dominate our lives. Let us not wait for our own W h a t- H a v e - We - D o n e moments and just watch our dragon harm our lives. Let us not wait for the worst to come. Don’t worry, there is no too late as long as we live. Let us start feeding our heroes today and let them protect us. Let the dragon sleep again. If you are genuinely happy of what you are doing today, then you’re in the right track, but let me remind you again, BE SENSITIVE. 34
Musings
The Kind of
Man The greatest need of a man is the need to be needed” - by unknown Looking at every man today, there are a lot of reasons to hate one. What is “normally” done by men today is somehow far different from what really should a man dispose in his life through his actions, his words and all other things that is seen obvious from him. And from all of these, a man’s image of being a “heart-breaker”, “liar”, “drunkard”, “playful” and all other unpleasant traits that you may want to add is absolutely not normal.
35
So much for the reasons that destroys a man’s image, at the mature and awakened part of a man’s life, eventually will go back to his original nature, and these are the things that reflects God’s image through
Darwin Tabilas
man; to be the “protector” “provider” and the “pastor”. Now looking at these traits, it signifies that the rest of the creation will depend on man. From providence of security, safety and morals, man must be of its ultimate strength to do so. Men are created in the image and likeness of God and so must maintain his strength to sustain his mission and there is no one stronger than a man who knows how to kneel down before the others. God also has what a man does need. He also wants us to need Him, and that is His nature. He will never let anyone of His people to end up empty. Now man, wake up, God is calling you to be more like Him. He needs you to need Him.
DCY miapil sa AFAD ug FIND Advocacy Awareness Conference from page 10 Nagsugod pagka-aktibo si Bacalso sa mga tawhanong katungod sa edad nga 16 isip miyembro sa Student Catholic Action (SCA) nga grupo niadtong 1979. Pinaagi sa pagdasig kanila sa usa ka madre, si Bacalso nahimong aktibo sa mga social work alang sa mga igsuong kabus ilabina sa mga urban nga komunidad. Dugang sa maong artikulo, nahimo usab siyang kabahin sa anti-fascist alliance sa mga estudyante, “This was at the height of (Ferdinand) Marcos’ dictatorship, when students were repressed. From that point on I never stopped.” Sa laing bahin, “desaparecidos” (involuntarily disappeared) usab ang usa ka igsoon ni Sevilla nga si Hermon, usa ka abogado sa labor ug human rights. Sa usa ka artikulo mahitungod kang Sevilla, gikaingon nga kauban ni Hermon sa iyang pagkawala ang labor leader nga si Victor Reyes niadtong Mayo 11, 1977. Si Hermon ug ang iyang mga kauban usa sa mga malampusong nagpahigayon sa pakigbusog sa mga anaa sa labor union, “the 10 labor unions that openly defied the strike ban during martial rule imposed by strongman Ferdinand Marcos.” Padayong hitabo Hugot ang pagtoo sa mga
miyembro sa AFAD ug FIND nga daghan pang mga kaso sa desaparecidos ang padayon pang gakahitabo sa nasud ug daghan usab niini ang wala na makit-i pa pagusab ug gituohang daghan pang pamilya ang wala na makahibalo sa gidangatan sa ilang mga desaparecidos. Mi-awhag sila si Sevilla ug Bacalso sa pagtabang sa adbokasiya sa hugot nga pagpatuman sa maong balaod. Gikataho nga hangtud Pebrero 2013, adunay 2, 212 nga kaso sa enforced disappearances sa tibuok nasud Pilipinhon, ug ang administrasyong Marcos ang adunay pinakataas nga kaso niini nga mitaho sa 878. Ang mga tuig 1983-1985 (diin kusog ang mass protest batok sa diktadoryang Marcos) ang mga tuig nga adunay daghang kaso sa maong panghitabo, gisundan sa mga tuig 19871989 sa administrasyong Aquino diin gipatuman ang total war policy. Sa tanang ahensiya usab sa gobiyerno, ang Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) ang narehistrong adunay dakong kalambigitan sa mga biktima sa imboluntaryong pagkawala (1,091) gisundan sa wala na mapatigayong grupo nga Philippine Constabulary— Integrated National Police
(PC-INP) (239) ug ang ubang paramilitary nga mga grupo (255). Nasayran usab, base sa mga pagpaambit nila ni Sevilla ug Bacalso nga kasagaran biktima sa enforced disappearances nagagikan sa mga sektor sa mga mag-uuma (854), trabahante (268) ug mga batan-on (151). Base sa taho gikan sa AFAD ug FIND, tulo ka mga rehiyon sa Pilipinas ang giingong top three nga adunay daghang kaso sa maong hitabo. Una ang Western Visayas (327), Western Mindanao (198) ug Southern Mindanao (192). Kasagaran usab kanila anaa nag-edad sa 16-45 anyos (1, 136) ug kadaghanan kanila nag-edad gikan 16-25 anyos (500). Sa pagkakaron, nakadokumento sa FIND ang 1, 838 ka mga biktima sa enforced disappearance ug nakaplagan usab ang mga patay’ng lawas sa lain pang 81 ka mga biktima. (Shiela C. Lumambas) Alang sa dugang kasayuran mahitungod sa AFAD ug FIND, mamahimong mobisita sa ilang opisyal nga website www.afad-online.org ug www. desaparecidos.org/find.
36
Story
Vocation
My heart rejoices in the great love of the Lord for he has looked with favour on his lowly servant. (LK 1, 48)
My name is Sr. Melanie D. Delfin, MIC, from Capiz, Philippines. Who would think that I would become a nun? It is the mystery of the CALL. I am the eldest among eight siblings, three brothers and four sisters. I worked hard to help my family for we were poor. I went to work abroad and it was in Hong Kong when I clearly heard the call of God. I responded wholeheartedly despite the opposition of my siblings and friends and the pain to leave my family who was depending on me. God worked mysteriously in my vocation to religious life. I felt His first call when I was 18-19 years old but I did not comprehend the message. I used to walk from my boarding house to my school, back and forth everyday; and I used this time to pray the rosary. Since my school was the archdiocesan school of my Province, I had the privilege to pass by the church everyday to pray, to attend mass and other church`s activities. I felt the hunger to be closer to God.
37
One day, as I walked to the school praying my rosary, I was struck by the pitiful sight of the street children and some old people. I was suddenly filled with a deep emotion which made me cry. It seemed that God was talking to me and I answered, “what shall I do?” and the respond came deep within me, “Be a Sister!” And I asked innocently, “Why, what is a Sister doing?” And the answer was… “Helping people!” Then I said, “Well, I have my family to be helped, they need me.”With that, I dropped the conversation and
The Beaut
The Vocation Story of Sr. Melanie D. Delfi
continue walking forgetting the whole scenario afraid that God might ask me for more. After the encounter, I did not try to remind myself about this experience nor share it with anyone because I was afraid to be called a fool. However, without being conscious of it, God is very present in my life, guiding me towards the accomplishment of His plan for me. I finished my course as a primary teacher, working and studying. But I could not find work immediately because I had first to take the teacher`s board examination. God knew that my siblings were waiting for my help to go to school so He helped me to find work as soon as possible. I left my family at the age of 20 to work abroad. I went first to Bahrain, a place in the Gulf. When the Gulf war broke up, I was forced to go home. My next contract was Brunei, near Borneo. The two countries I went were Muslim countries and my faith was my only weapon to survive among various trials and difficulties. It was during this time that I experienced intensely the worth of prayers. I believe Mother Mary was protecting me from any sort of danger because I was faithful to praying the rosary.
After coming back from Brunei, took the teacher`s board examinatio which fortunately I passed and give a teaching position in th mountainous area of o Province. At the beginnin of the school year, m visa for Hong Kon arrived. I ha forgotten th I applie to wo in Hon K o n befor takin the boa
examination. made a quick discernment an chose to leave my noble work a teacher in my country becau my wages were not enough pay for my sister’s education wh was taking nursing that time.
I just marveled on how Go worked in my life because it w in Hong Kong where I foun my vocation to the religio life. Yes, it was in Hon Kong when I realize that God had bee so good with m and I becam consciou of H gratuitou love for m He had bee j o u rn e y i n with m througho my life. He ha
ty and Mystery of God’s Call
fin, MIC
I on en he our ng my ng ad hat ed ork ng g re ng ard
I nd as use to ho
od was nd ous ng ed en me me us His us me. en ng me ut ad
made things possible and easier for me. This made me feel very grateful. In Hong Kong, I participated actively in our church`s activities. One of the elders who had affection for me invited me to attend the Evangelization Seminar that was started by an MIC sister and a PME priest. It was during this seminar that my missionary zeal was ignited and I felt the call to do missionary work. The days went by meaningfully because I felt my relationship with Jesus was becoming intimate. As the seminar went on, I found out that the Sister I admired so much was an MIC. I was moved by her joyful, participative yet reflective way of giving a recollection. I remembered when she gave recollection to our group, I made a comment, and “if ever I wanted to become a nun I would like to be like that Sister!” Inspired by the Spirit and eager to find what was really God`s Will for me, I also followed the search-in sessions of the MIC Sisters in Hong Kong. The last day of our search-in session was a kind of discernment day. For me, it was very significant because that was the day that would determine my future life. I was not certain of course, but I had a vision of a closed door. I did not know what was inside but a word was spoken to me, “Unless you enter that door, you will not be at peace.” I was very moved and frightened too but the call to religious life became stronger. Before the day was ended, I had the courage to decide to enter the MIC Congregation. I joined the MIC because of the Spirituality of Thanksgiving and the presence of the Missionary and Marian dimensions in their life. It was in 1997
that I decided to enter but it was not easy. It was so painful to leave my family who was dependent on my financial help. Two among my sisters were objecting my entrance because they still needed my assistance. But I told them that if I could not enter that time, I would lose the opportunity and the grace given to me at that moment. I felt inflamed that time. My friends were also against my desire to become a religious because they wanted me to marry my boyfriend whom they knew well and their friend. This was really the crucial part of my decision making because my friends made stories against me which became the talk among the people from our place. It was painful for me because I was expecting my friends to support me with my decision. That painful reality could waver my decision, but the Holy Spirit enlightened and guided me to overcome the challenges I encountered. Instead of becoming angry with them, I gathered them and spoke to them as a friend trying to explain to them the mystery of the CALL. It was my trust in God, and His grace that made me decide to follow Jesus. I do not regret my decision, on the contrary, I am very grateful because I am happy where I am now and contented with my life. Tasting and cherishing God`s unconditional love for me. I am even more willing to offer Him all my lives if given more than one. For me, this is a sign that affirms my religious vocation particularly to the MIC. Looking back, I consider the religious upbringing of my mother affects my choice to pursue religious life. Yes, my mother is a devoted Catholic, who
is praying regularly. We were trained to pray with her at night and at dawn. She would wake us up early in the morning when she had her novena to be recited. All of us, brothers and sisters were taught how to recite our prayers. So, I grew up leading the prayers at church, wake of the dead, etc. My mother herself would like to become a nun but her father did not allow her. I felt supported by my parents because they did not disagree to my religious vocation. I felt supported also by my uncle whom I admired so much because of his prayer life. He influenced me because I stayed with them during my high school days. He is attending mass every day and I am edified by his life. He has also a daughter who is a religious nun in Italy. There are also MIC Sisters who were close to me who have encouraged and supported me along my journey through their words of encouragement and prayers. Following the footsteps of Jesus is challenging and of course not easy but very rewarding. In order to persevere in the journey towards healing and intimacy with Jesus, I really beg for the graces of openness, humility and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The deepening of my spiritual life is very important because I believe that without intimacy with Jesus, whom I follow, I will not be happy and I will not remain as an MIC. So, prayer is the essential part not only during the preparation before entering but as well as my weapon everyday throughout my religious life.
38
CABUSTAM Meeting & Outing from page 8 our responsibility to own our statement and to implement programs for the sustainability of the region’s council programs. Another topic that was talked over was the exchange of resources. With the constant communication with the arch/ dioceses in the region, exchange of human resources, especially in promulgating our special youth formations and programs is very notable. Fr. Richard suggested that, in order to maintain the good communication and make it more sustaining, each arch/ diocese must submit its year plan so that we can see each other’s strengths and help each other grow. Everyone agreed with the suggestion and as a step each diocese shall submit its apostolic year plan to the regional council as soon as possible. Other matters such as WYD Poland, AYD Korea and MSPC Updates were as tackled. The meeting ended at around 7:00 in the evening and everyone went off to grace the invitation of a family to have dinner with them. After dinner, we went back to our quarters and have a quality bonding moment. This is the first meeting after the congress in Surigao City. Since a CABUSTAM Meeting is not complete without a tour, the following morning, we all travel led to Britania Islands to experience an island hopping escapade prepared for us by the host. We surely did enjoy our hearts out as we navigated from island to island and have a taste of nature at its best. The Diocese of Malaybalay will host the next meeting on September 26 -27 , 2014.
39
HUMAN TRAFFICKING from page 13 giving and receiving payments to achieve the consent of the person. Third is “purpose”. Why it is done? Mostly it is for exploitation, prostitution and other forms of sexual abuse, forced labour or services, slavery, child war soldiers, removal sale of human organs and etc. It is now the #2 crime in the planet. Here in our country, another form of human trafficking was born in the form of “sex tourism”. Many tourists visited our country for flesh. But for reason of comfort and easy money, many also had use the advancement of technology to entice high paying foreigners. Some use internet cafe while others just did it in their homes. It is now one of the lucrative businesses than drugs and young girls and boys are the prime victim because they are easier to exploit and control. Pope Francis had said, “Human trafficking is an open wound on the body of contemporary society, a scourge upon the body of Christ. It’s a crime against humanity.” The Holy Bible says, “Man and woman were created in the image and likeness of God.” Human trafficking is a maltreatment of God’s creation. Alarm by this urgent crisis in
our society, the international community had launched a variety of campaigns to end this crime. Last May 2013, cable network CNN produced the documentary “Freedom Project” to open the eyes of the world regarding this phenomenon. This move resulted to the creation of so many anti human trafficking laws and organizations throughout the globe. Here in our country an “Operation Strikeback” program was spearheaded by PNP together with various NGOs and LGUs and succeeded in dismantling some small and giant crime players. Another helpful step was suggested by UN. It is the “4Ps” of Prevention, Protection, Prosecution and Partnership aided by Prayer. Autumn Burris once said, “You will either learn about human trafficking from a prevention program or you are going to learn about it from a trafficker.” Educate yourselves about human trafficking before you will find out that you are already a victim. Knowing would lead to avoidance and eradication of it.
Lord
Rising up in the name of the
The newly elected SBYA Officers after their ‘blessing’ last August 3, 2014
from page 14 cherish. The parlor games followed which broke the ice and brought back the enthusiasm, life and spirit of the participants. Another accomplishment of the said general assembly is the election of the new Parish Youth Apostolate Council. Those who took oath were the following: Parish Youth Leader: Jenus Sablada Assistant Parish Youth Leader: Mary Francis Therese Limocon Secretary: Daisery Sobrepeña Treasurer: Rean Joy Balbint Auditor: Robelyn Manila Public Information Officers: Orlan Tabuada Jr. Jay Sumimbal
Josafat Caipang Joan Solar Irish Lousie Gabas Coordinators: Liturgy Maeya Carreon Formation Remegio Bayabos, Jr. Social Action Peter John Torda Nanay Presciousa and Tatay Carlos Gumbao, the SBYA Couple Adviser, were also present in the said activity and have guided the event to its smoothest flow together with Ma’am Venus Gacasan, the PPCC Coordinator. The officers were installed last August 3, 2014 and blessed by Father Elbert Roquios, the Parish Priest. Big hopes and bigger faith are now the fueling start of the new SBYA Council. With Jesus, as our alarm clock and the Owner of time, the youth of Saint Bernadette will continue to rise and stay awake, ready for a 24/7 service to the Lord and the community. Amen!
Environmental Stewardship: An Invitation for Change
from page 16
our environment is not an overnight task. It takes a lot of sacrifices. We must be conscious of our responsibilities. Change must begin in us. We must change our perspectives, preferences and lifestyles. It will begin from our sincere desire of renewing ourselves for the betterment of all. It requires discipline and hard works. Everything else will follow. A renewed person will produced a renewed society that will make a renewed environment. The Earth is our home and habitat also to thousands of other creatures. God created us all with a different role to be played as part of His unique design. Our actions are interconnected with each other so as to our survival. Man being created in His image and likeness were given a special task. Scripture says; “Let man rule over all the Earth” (Gen. 1). It does not mean that we have to dominate. Instead we have to be responsible steward. Being mindful of others need especially those of the weak. As the proverb says; “Protect nature and nature will protect you.”
40
41
900 Words
& Counting...
from page 30
the things that we cannot take back anymore. Things which will pass and never be brought back, things which we have but are not permanent. But what is there to the things that matter the most if we chose to just let them pass by and go? What is there to life if we forget to take every step as a journey, honor every day as a gift and see every second as an endless tick tock to what we have? Life is unpredictable and the choices we make as well. Laughter, tears, fun, hardship, joy and sorrow are all part of what life has to offer. We can choose to be who we are, who we want to be, who we cannot be, who we want to be with and who we don’t want to be with. There will be times where we can all have fun, fun that we don’t think of getting old, fun that we just see life optimistically. We are all unique in our own ways. There are different versions of how we live our
life. We share the same air to breath but we choose to live it differently. If you are asked now; “how is your life going today?” how would you answer that? Would it be just a simple “yeah my life is fine”, or would it be “amazingly great!”? We have our own choices and let us never forget that. Value every day for not everything is permanent; we must stick that to our heads. Heads up, and if you feel down, kneel down and pray. He is the one who knows all the happenings around you. Never forget to thank Him for everything that He has done. Thank Him for giving you problems that made you stronger and thank Him for giving you life up to this very point and day. Ask forgiveness and repent. One SORRY could not hurt, right? And always remember to be wise in every decision to have no regrets in the future. In order for you to say that “I chose this and I chose to be me”, because we all have choices in life.
Look Back to See Forward from page 32
some of the bad things in our past have been used by God to shape, mold and transform us into the kind of person He wants us to become in Him. Let us not allow some of the bad things that had happened in our past to affect our thinking and our ability to want to live with full intensity with God. Do not let a few bad events, no matter how bad they may have been, stop and prevent you from becoming everything that God is calling you to become in Him through His divine love. Just have FAITH. The choice lies in us. You can either choose to let the hurts, wounds and pains from your past continue to strangle and paralyze you or you will choose to say “enough is enough” and offer God the chance and a white light to free you from some of the bad things that have occurred in your past. His love is right there for us if we are willing to take His hand and allow Him to bring you up out of it!
on the
RACKS
M
r. Peabody, played by Ty Burrell, is a genius dog. The movie begins when he is just a pup waiting to be adopted by a family. Since he doesn’t fetch, roll over, bark, etc., he is the dog always left behind. When he grows up, he finds a baby
named Sherman (Max Charles) and decides to adopt him. Everything in their life is fine until Sherman goes to school. Sherman and Mr. Peabody have traveled through time in a WABAC machine. Because Sherman has seen history first-hand, he is a know-itall in school. This angers fellow classmate, Penny Peterson (Ariel Winter) who sets out to humiliate Sherman. Sherman and Penny fight, and after Sherman bites Penny, a social worker, Ms. Grunion (Allison Janney) decides that Sherman should not be raised by a dog. Ms. Grunion is determined to remove Sherman from his home.
Sherman shows her his WABAC, and the two of them go time travelling and create a rift in the timespace continuum. Sherman breaks all the rules of time travel and eventually has to confess to Mr. Peabody. Positive morality: The movie’s underlying messages reminds us of the importance of staying true to ourselves and standing by those we love, and sheds positive light on the value of different kinds of blended families. Mr. Peabody is a very good dad to Sherman. He lovingly cares for his son.
In an attempt to patch things up with Penny,
42
43
44
Literary Attempts
God is our
Refuge
When I am weary, I found His strength. When I am empty, I found His fullness When I am sad, I found His joy. In the middle of the storm, I found His shelter and provision. I need not to fear, for more than this world can offer. And when life gets tough, it’s Him I remember. I never knew, where this life would take I just keep on moving and stepping out of this faith. He is the reason why I live In him alone I believe He make things right and he is the only one who can He is God almighty, gracious and divine.
45
Charry B. Casinabe
Charien Sumagang
Constant Change Yesterday, we only had boards and chalks, Uncomfortable rooms and those old books. Teachers prepare visual aids, So students could understand what they read. Ages ago, students have limited education, Cannot understand easily on difficult lesson. Unless they are smart and gifted, Others are stuck to where they are seated. But, generations of youth have come and go, So as the technology gets higher in what they do. School facilities have developed Into something better that anyone can cope.
Some schools are air-conditioned For students to feel comfortable in every discussion Installed latest kinds of internet connections For fast browsing and easy project perfection. From old and heavy dictionaries To light and hand- carried tablets How far technology has taken us! Till someday it will surely last. I wish our faith is like this too, Upgrading every time it needs to. Waking all the dormancy within, And waving goodbye to sin
46
Literary Attempts
BELIEVING
No More #PrinsesaDose
You and I was a sweet lie Promised not to part even we die Now the dreams together we made With your unmeant promise it had fade Now I fully understand You are not meant to hold my hand In fact it was you and me that’s not meant to be Let’s blame not you or me Fantasies are undone reality The us now belongs to fantasy Our reality had died therefor Now, I’m believing no more.
47
unfinished #PrinsesaDose
I never believed in the magic of love I thought it’s the only thing I won’t have Pain it’ll cause me, I thought To distance from it is what I ought Then like lightning you came My heart with a bow you aim Oh boy! What have you done? The walls I built is now gone I don’t know where this would lead us Love comes slow yet you go fast Make me certain with this I’m begging, now down on my knees 48
Literary Attempts 49
Good Riddance #sinodha
A famous line - “let’s call it a day” brings one’s heart to a state of idolatry. Pointless searching from the marshes of memory; often fail, yet soul’s gentle as that of a ewe. Sudden halt of expressions make mem’ry a concrete and detailed silhouette Masks have been shrouded with lies and lampoons Alas! my Id’s persistent, I could obviously be beaten in this game of roulette Cocoon’s a beautiful way of renewing otherwise, the lonely shell could be an eternal dwelling - locked up to rot and face Armageddon. Tears are suppose to be a manifestation of great emotional saturation but smiles were now involved in the great roster of phenomenon. That breeze, that awful, cold and despairing breeze enveloping the soul with malicious triviality. Foolishness fury and frenzy out of failed pride Until everything’s over, this soul shall shed until it’s scrapped off with promiscuity
Lingaw2x
Corner
ANG KALAINAN SA UNA UG KARON
by: Dodong Joven
Sa una nabuhi man gani sila nga Telegrama ang gamit pa, Karon na High tech na moingon pag dili ko mabuhi nga way Cellphone (Sosyal!)
Sa una pag nay Birth day tanan imbitado, karong pag nay birthday kato rang ilado maoy imbitado (Choosy)
Sa una pila ka kilometro ang baktason makaabot lang ug skwelahan, karon pila ka metro nalang ang skwelahan malate pa (Tapulan)
Sa una palangga pa kayo sa trato, Karon ang litrato nalang maoy gipilit sa kwarto tungod ang amahan ga alboroto (Duh!)
Sa una mo skwela bisag walay balon, karon Bisag nanay balon moingon pa nga it’s not enough (Demanding)
Sa una pag magunitan lang gani paminyuan na, karon bisag kapila na Gunitan mo deny pa (Denial)
Sa una pag ang bata mohilak kogusan ug isayaw, karon pag ang bata mohilak taga an nalang tawon ug Cellphone (Hi Tech)
Sa una ang usa ka dalaga pangulitawhan mag dala ug barkada aron mang harana, karon textsan nalang uyab na papasaload pa (Paano??)
(Pipila lang kini sa mga kalainan sa una ug karon) 50
Dear Papang, Maayong adlaw diha kanimo ug sa tanan nga readers niining inyong Banagbanag. Ako nagatoo Papang nga ako imung matabangan niining akung gi dala na problema. Ako diay c Totoy Kho, Papang nangidarun sa mabugnaw nga edad, dili pa tantong bata, nag edad na ako karun ug 25 years old. Ulitawo ug lumolopyo ning probinsya sa Bukidnon. Ang akung problema Papang, ang akung ngalan nga Totoy, mao ang rason nga maulaw ko mo atubang ug tao ug makipag ila-ila. Kapila na nga bisis nga na ulawan ko. Wala ni bagay ang akung ngalan sa akung physical appearance Pang-pang kay daghan ga ingun kanako nga ka look alike daw nako c Lee Min Ho ( wow hangin). Naai usa ka higayon ana Papang na naai nakig ila-ila nko kai gwapo man lageh q nga pagkatao. Nangutana siya sa akung ngalan ug nag duha-duha ko sa pag ingun kaniya niini kai basin ma discourage siya, apan wa akoy nahimo kundili sa pagtubag sa iyang pangutana, sa walay pag langay human nko gi ingun ang akung ngalan, (totoy diay ko miga), iya kung gisagpa ug gi-ignan nga walay batasan ug dayun na siya’ng lakaw. Usahay maka huna-huna ako Papang nganu man gihatag kini ka nko nga pangalan sa akung ginikanan, nganung ako pa? nganu gyud ako nga gwapo man ko. Busa papang tabangi intawun ako sa pagsulbad niini. Thank You Papang and may Godbless us all. Naghigugma , Totoy kho Dear Totoy Kho, Maayong adlaw pud diha kanimo ug sa tanang mag babasa nining Banagbanag . Unang-una salamat sa imung pag-salig kanako ug pag-paambit sa imung problema. Akung maikatambag kanimo Totoy nga bisan d ka ganahan sa imung ngalan, padayun gihapun sa imung panaw niing kalibutana. Sa imu pang gi-ingun nga gwapo ka nga pagkatao, so imu nalang bawion sa imung itsura, swerti pa gani ka anah imung sitwasyon karun kai bisan pangitan ka sa imung ngalan nabawi man pud kini sa imung itsura, aduna baya uban jha nga dili pa sila ganahan sa ilang ngalan wa pagyud sila niangay sa ilang hulagway, oh diba! Bahin pud adtung babae nga nagsagpa ganimo, pasayloa nalang siya ug sabta, diba isa sa manga pulong ni Hesus nga nag ingun, kung gisagpa ka sa tuo’ng bahin sa imung nawung, ipa-sagpa usab ang wala’ng bahin. Kini nag pasabot sa pagpa-ubos sa kaugalingon. Para pud sa imung ginikanan, pasalamati sila, kay sila ang nag padako ug nag hatag kanimu ug gugma nga walay ika-baylo. Kanang Totoy nga pangalan, usa na sa pinakasikat na ngalan kaniadtu pila na ka tao nga nay pangalan nga pariha kanimo apan nag malipayon gihapun cla. So mao lang na ang akung gikatambag kanimo kai midyo taas-taas nani, ug bilar na kaayu ko ug hinimu hehehe jwk lng., btaw, usab daghan kaayung salamat ug unta natabangan taka, ug sa katung gusto mag share-share sa ilang problema palihug lng ko isulat kini sa limpyo nga sako, ai I mean limpyo nga papel ug ipadala sa buhatan sa DCY office ug pangitaa c Jesa Saragosa second name Jesa Cabeguin. Nag-pangga ug nag-paabut, PAPANG.
51
52
yks
This is a common situation that most of the BukYo experiences. Most of the time, they were being scolded by parents because of coming home late from Church activities. Most of the youth would say, “Bahala’g MAKASAB-AN, basta naka serbisyo sa SIMBAHAN!” It is weird but this is TRUE to most of the Bukidnon Youth. Catch the next adventure of BukYo!
Legends
Urban
Answer
Expect an
As a drought continued for what seemed an eternity, a small community of farmers was in a quandary as to what to do. Rain was important to keep their crops healthy and sustain the way of life of the townspeople. As the problem became more acute, a local pastor called a prayer meeting to ask for rain. Many people arrived. The pastor greeted most of them as they filed in. As he walked to the front of the church to officially begin the meeting he noticed most people were chatting across the aisles and socializing with friends. When he reached the front his thoughts were on quieting the attendees and starting the meeting. His eyes scanned the crowd as he asked for quiet. He noticed an eleven year-old girl sitting quietly in the front row. Her face was beaming with excitement. Next to her, poised and ready for use, was a bright red umbrella. The little girl’s beauty and innocence made the pastor smile as he realized how much faith she possessed. No one else in the congregation had brought an umbrella. All came to pray for rain, but the little girl had come expecting God to answer‌
55
YouCat
The Church
HOW DOES THE CHURCH HELP US TO LEAD A GOOD, RESPONSIBLE LIFE?
#343
In the church we are baptized. In the Church we receive the faith that the Church has preserved intact down through the centuries. In the Church we hear the living Word of God and learn how we must live if we want to please God. Through the sacraments that Jesus entrusted to his disciples, the Church builds us up, strengthens, and consoles us. In the Church there is the blazing fire of the saints, by which our hearts are kindled. In the Church the Holy Eucharist is celebrated, in which Christ’s sacrifice and strength are renewed for us in such a way that, united with Him, we become his Body and live by His strength. Despite all her human weaknesses, apart from the Church no one can be a Christian.
WHY DO WE WORSHIP GOD? We worship God because He exists and because reverence and worship are the appropriate response to His revelation and His presence. “You shall worship the Lord your God and Him only shall you serve” (Mt 4:10). Worshipping God, however, is also beneficial to men, for it frees them from servitude to the powers of this world. When God is no longer worshipped and when he is no longer thought to be Lord over life and death, others assume that position and put human dignity at risk.
#353
WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THE SIGN OF THE CROSS?
#360
Through the sign of the Cross we place ourselves under the protection of the Triune God. At the beginning of the day, at the beginning of a prayer, but also at the beginning of important undertakings, a Christian makes the Sign of the Cross over himself and thus starts his business “in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit”. We are surrounded on all sides by the Triune God; calling upon Him by name sanctifies the things we set out to do; it obtains blessings for us and strengthens us in difficulties and temptations.
WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR A CHRISTIAN TO BE BAPTIZED WITH A PARTICULAR NAME? “In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit”, the person is baptized with a name. The name and the face are ultimately what make a person unique, even in God’s sight. “Fear not, for i have redeemed you; i have called you by name, you are mine” (Is. 43:1) Christians treat the name of a person reverently, because the name is profoundly connected with that person’s identity and dignity. From time immemorial Christians have selected names for their children from the list of the saints; they do so in the belief that the patron saint is an example for them and will intercede with God for them in a special way.
#361
56
(Emmanuel) God is with us
I love you JC
Let’s build a community by removing the crowd
nai
I am lucky that I am here
Knowing more my self
The greatest experience ever
May we find what we are looking for
I’m bl to b bles
I love having Jesus in my life Mayng
Greet adlaw kanatong tnan ko! Happy sa atong Diocese sa Malayabalay birthday sa among pinalanggang asst. parish Bukyo dinhi pud sa libyo akong priest sauna here sa quezon c pagadayeg ug pagpasalamat bsan sa fr. Neivz Regalado ug Fr. Bonie kapit os sa panahon ug panginabuhi I just want to gr8 s Cabaya… :Dug san luv na c Aris Jay tipik ug kabahin kta sa tnan Bukyo GR8 q huh. mga batan-on sa AL Lapizar, epi Birthday pud. He. He. kay ang Ginoo wala mag kulang Hi kaBukyo!!! Its nice to PARISH… labi najud -Methelbe in a ministry, where in I saamung kanato sa atong gikinahanglan. pinak found “LOVE” live life happy cute ga paris and fulfilled w/ GOD. Be priest..rev.fr.odilo -jnp-pya pres. Aldrin Cablina Great galamiton.. amp Brave! -GlecilleGreet lng di mga bukyo and God lang ku sa nako ang 4 brothers -chen2tanangBukidnon Youth ( J a m e s , Vo j b h o n e , M x - w e l l , ilabi na sa parokya sa kitaotao Domz) hope always unta sila mg ug kay Fr. Mindo Alinas. Full force serve kay God ;D -Maniscam, guys GOD Bless us all tnk U. -Mark Jv. (Wao Parish) Bryan Egar ; ang gwapong Chinito hahaha…
57
I am happy, ilhan nako ang uban mga youth
lessed be a ssing
I love your presence Lord I am amazed. Y.E. is the best
Nalipay kayo ko nga ania ko, ug sa atong tanan. Enjoy nato ang atong pag-uban sa Ginoo. Good luck! God Bless BukYo.
Thanks for this very much beautiful opportunity
Inspired ko kay God
YE Corner Pinahiping Pagbati
Great ko s a C F C - Y F C SFC, MMY, ugsa PYA sa MC labinasa Cathedral Banagbanag Choir nga PIRTI KA PIRTI t a f f sa JUD KAAYO MANGANTA!! w/ s LL Sir Denshoe na legendary sa h o r r r a a a y y y y ! ! ! ! Have a beautiful good d Glee Club!! Ug kang Sir Josh the Salamat sa mga nag vibes day to u Just wanna powerbass!! Welcome sa Bass Itol! share sa ilang nag ka say Hi-Five: D to the newly Greet ko xa mga ; dili ta close Joevie!! Ug sa mga kadaiyang mga sh new Ones nga mga pa twitams! installed St. BERNADETTE YOUTH p.y.a xa taga taga kwento ng life,ug sa on apil ang mga gwapo nga mga nag suporta kibawe. B.U.R.A.K jud ta APOSTOLATE COUNCIL-BATANGAN Tenors..Hehehe oral ang ugsa ping inyong permi.be understanding ;D magmabungahon kitang tanan mga bro… dbless tanan ka BUKYO!! respectful and kind padayun sa pagserbisyo sa isig kabatan-onan -Batibot PUSH LANG NG PUSH xa panaw mga KIBYO, KIBAWE hilabinaSaTong mapalangaong until something’s YOUTH.. LOVE AND SERVE THE Amahan Lord Jesus Christ :D happened!!.. – YOUNG PEOPLE OF CHRIST. Godbless us always! Mwah! AlexandrO -Thonylicious :D PYA_kibawe
58
CONTRIBUTORS
Rey Ariel Belisario, Angelie Bago, Anjon Fredrick C. Mamunta, John Mark C. dela Pena, Charien Sumagang, #prinsesaDose, Charry B. Casinabe, Ivy-Ann R. Sumagang, Windie Zafra, Anthony Dameg, Gin Rey Brillantes, Bernadeth Valiente, Sr. Melanie D. Delfin, MIC, Darwin Tabilas