Dec 4, 2006 - CBCPMonitor by cbcpmonitor

Page 3Monitor CBCP

Vol. 10 No. 17

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Cause of Beatification December 4, 2006

of Fr. Peyton in Progress

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Notes: The Bible and the Environment

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The Zamboanga Sibugay Experience

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Bishop Hits Back Over “Antipopulation” Claims A senior member of the Catholic bishops’ hierarchy has registered his reaction to the position of former President Fidel Ramos on the population policy issue. Bishop Hits / P4

Protagonist of Truth, Promoter of Peace December 4, 2006

Vol. 10 No. 17

“Family be Strong with the Strength of God!”

Php 16. 00

Manila City gov’t anti-abortion steps lauded A campaign launched by the Manila City government to root out rampant selling of abortion drugs was lauded by the Media Office of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP). Manila City / P4

More Help Needed for typhoon victims, says Church By Roy Lagarde “All donations will be properly acknowledged. We will be deeply grateful for your solidarity with the suffering people of Albay.” Officials say damage to property also rose abruptly to over P600 million and more than one millions others have been affected by the disaster. Damage to infrastructure was placed at P357 million, damage to agriculture at P251 million. In the province of Camarines Sur which comprises the Vicariate of Libmanan and Archdiocese of Nueva Caceres, church officials reported of about 5,000 typhoon-affected families. The National Secretariat for Social Action—Justice and Peace (NASSA) of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) said many areas remain inaccessible. Many roads and bridges were seriously damaged while storm debris is not yet cleared, making it difficult to transport goods to the affected areas. As of press time, the Diocesan Social Action Centers working in affected areas are finding it hard to

Photo credit: Ma. Jhona B. Acuña, PNU

THE Catholic Church in the Philippines continues to make urgent appeals for aid on behalf of more than a million people devastated by the last two typhoons. Typhoon Reming, the fourth Pacific storm to hit the country in four months, has claimed lives and destroyed, houses, roads and bridges, brought down electric and telephone polls, and swept away thousands of hectares of crops. In the Diocese of Legazpi in Albay alone, the official death toll is 368, but emergency services say the figure could be as high as 1,000 after mudslides caused by the powerful typhoon engulfed whole villages. The deadly mudslides were triggered by torrential rains from typhoon Reming, which mixed with volcanic ash on the slopes of the Mount Mayon.. Legazpi Auxiliary bishop Lucio Quiambao, said their diocese had been mortally wounded and desperately needed help. “Please do extend your support to alleviate the plight of those most affected and least to served,” the prelate said in a letter.

More Help / P4 AWASHED BUT UNSWEPT by typhoon Reming, the Our Lady of the Gate parish church in Daraga, Albay, considered as one the country’s best church architectures, stood indomitable providing hope and relief to thousands of victims and destruction brought by the killer typhoon.

Day of Persons with Disabilities Marked

Photo credit: Nestor Guevarra

…As Pope sends condolences for typhoon victims

THE Archdiocese of Manila marked the Persons With Disabilities (PWD) Day on December 3 with calls for their full equality and integration into social life and development. Fr. Alexander Thomas of the Archdiocese of Manila Office for Persons with Disabilities Ministries (AMO-PDM) said this year’s PWD Day gives societies an opportunity to hear disabled people speak in a voice of their own. “PWDs are persons that are entitled with the same right and privileges that we have,” Thomas said. Thomas said that there is so much to be done in order to raise awareness in society about disabled persons, their rights, their

needs, their potential and their contribution. There are now about 4 million people in the country suffering disabilities. He also stressed the importance of providing public sensitivity to the problems of disabled persons who are mostly stuck at home due to the handicap. “They knock on us saying that we must give a lending hand to them,” he said. About 2,000 individuals with disabilities joined in Catholic PWD day led by the AMO-PDM. The theme for this years celebration, taken from a biblical passage “I have called your friends” (Jn 15:15), states “TGIF Thank God I have PWD friends”.

Day of / P4

IN a “telegram of condolence” sent to the Philippines through Papal Nuncio Archbishop Fernando Filoni, the Pope said he was “deeply saddened” by the tragedy in which the death toll is feared to hit more than 1,000. The Pope assured the victims of his “closeness in prayer” for mercy of the departed, and

for strength and comfort of those who were injured. Pope Benedict XVI has asked the Philippine rescue and relief workers of the victims of the deadly typhoon ‘Reming’ to “persevere in their efforts to bring relief and support.” “His Holiness likewise prays for the rescue workers and all involved in providing practical as-

sistance to the victims of this disaster, encouraging them to persevere in their efforts to bring relief and support,” the letter read. The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has also appealed to all the faithful to help generously those affected by the disaster. Contributions may be channeled through

Christians, Muslims march for peace in Mindanao

Diocese Offers Masses for Surigao Sea Victims

Zamboanga — More than 30,000 people gathered in the capital of the southern archipelago on November 29 to celebrate the opening of the ninth “Week of Peace”, an event that “in the name of God, the merciful, calls for an end to all hostilities”. The Bishops-Ulama Conference (BUC) of the Philippines, composed of 24 Catholic bishops, 18 Protestants and 24 Ulamas, sponsored the event and decided on the theme. Christians from different churches, Muslims, teachers, students, human rights activists and government officials marched together to call for an end to the war between Manila and rebels of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), which is calling for autonomy for the Muslim majority region.

As Pope / P4

For more than 40 years, MILF has been fighting against the government to win autonomy for the Muslim minority that largely inhabits the South of the Philippines. In the past two years, armed clashes have decreased significantly after peace negotiations were launched with the government of Manila. However, these stalled some months ago. Fr Angel Calvo, a Claretian missionary and president of the Peace Advocates Zamboanga (PAZ), a group that promotes peace in the south of the Philippines, said the people marching were like a “colorful tapestry of peace, joining those afflicted by the war and calling for its end.” Zamboanga Mayor, Celso

MOVED by the tragedy of the illfated ferry MV Leonida, which sank November 25 causing at least 16 deaths, Surigao Bishop Antonietto Cabajog sent a message of condolence to the victims’ families. “ We sympathize with the families whose loved ones perished in the incident. We deeply empathize with the families of those who are still missing,” Cabajog said. The ferry, overloaded with cargoes, mostly baggages and 300 sacks of cement, aside from pas-

Christians, Muslims / P4

Diocese Offers / P4

World News

CBCP Monitor Vol. 10 No. 17 December 4, 2006

En route, Pope sends greetings to heads of state © KAYHAN OZER POOL/epa/Corbis

VATICAN, December 1, 2006—Pope Benedict XVI thanked the people of Turkey for their hospitality, and sent a special greeting to the nation’s youth, in a telegram sent to President Ahment Necdet Sezer as the Pope’s plane flew back toward Rome on December 1. Following the usual custom of the Holy See, the Pope sent telegraphs

Pope Benedict XVI meets with Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayip Erdogan at Ankara airport shortly after his arrival. (Corbis)

Web Page Dedicated to Justice and Peace VATICAN CITY, November 23, 2006— The Holy See has started a Web page dedicated to information about, and formation in, justice and peace. The initiative, www.justpax.it, was launched by the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, whose president is Cardinal Renato Martino. For now, the Web page will publish information in Spanish, Italian, English and French on ecclesial documents, congresses, statements of representatives of the Church.

The Web page also gives information about the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, as well as its members. (Zenit)

Bartholomew I, Armenian Patriarch Mesrob II, and Syrian Orthodox Metropolitan Filuksinos Cetin— all of whom traveled to the airport to see him off. Pope Benedict commented that he had felt “great serenity and great joy” during his trip, and said that he hoped the visit would have a lasting influence as “a sign of friendship among peoples, among religions.” “A part of my heart will remain in Istanbul,” the Pontiff said. He said that he hoped to see “a communion between Eu-

Pope Benedict XVI (L) and Orthodox Patriarch Bartholomew I arrive at the St. George Church in Istanbul. Pope Benedict XVI arrived in Istanbul today to pursue a key goal of his papacy: healing a rift between the two feuding branches of Christianity that dates back nearly 1,000 years. (Corbis)

rope and this city, which is so profoundly European, and which ties the two continents.” Offering his last fare-

wells, the Pope boarded his Boeing 737 at 1 in the afternoon, local time. The flight was expected in Rome at 2:45. (CWNews)

Negative reactions in Iranian press over Pope’s Turkey visit

affected of his closeness in prayer. The Holy Father commends the deceased to the loving mercy of Almighty God, and upon their grieving families and all those injured he invokes divine strength and comfort. His Holiness likewise prays for the rescue workers and all involved in providing practical assistance to the victims of this disaster, encouraging them to persevere in their efforts to bring relief and support.” (VIS)

to express his affection particularly for the Christian minority—who, he pointed out, live in a community with a rich Christian history, even if the country is now overwhelmingly Muslim. The Pope’s plane arrived at Rome’s Ciampino airport at 2:45 local time; from there he was drive back to the Vatican. (CWNews)

ISTANBUL, December 1, 2006—Pope Benedict XVI underlined the importance of dialogue among different religious groups, as he concluded his 4-day visit to Turkey on December 1. After celebrating Mass at the Istanbul cathedral on Friday morning, the Holy Father was driven to the city’s airport. There he met briefly with local government officials, thanking them for their hospitality during his visit. He also said his goodbyes to the Turkish Catholic bishops, the Ecumenical Patriarch

founder and first president of the Turkish Republic (1923-1938). Within the building, which resembles a Greek temple and is reached by a flight of steps, the walls are covered in green marble and the ceiling decorated with gold mosaics. The cenotaph to Ataturk is made from a single block of marble weighing 40 tons. At 3 p.m. local time (2 p.m. in Rome), Benedict XVI was received by Ahmet Necdet Sezer, president of the Republic of Turkey, in the presidential palace. Subsequently he met with one of the country’s two vice prime ministers in the “Guest House” of the presidential palace. This afternoon, the Pope is scheduled to meet with Ali Bardokoglu, Turkey’s president for religious affairs, in the “Diyanet,” the headquarters of his department. Turkey has 72 million inhabitants, of whom 99.8 percent are Muslims. The remaining 0.20 percent is made up of Christians of various rites (Greek-Orthodox, Syro-Orthodox,Armenian-Orthodox, Protestants and Catholics) and Jews. Catholics number some 32,000, about 0.04 percent of the total population. The Catholic Episcopal Conference of Turkey is made up of six bishops. Currently, there are 47 parishes, 68 priests, 98 male and female religious, four permanent deacons, five major seminarians and 28 catechists. (VIS)

Pope sends condolences for typhoon victims in the Philippines

VATICAN CITY, December 1, 2006— Cardinal Secretary of State Tarcisio Bertone S.D.B., sent a telegram of condolence, in the Pope’s name, to Archbishop Fernando Filoni, apostolic nuncio to the Philippines, for a typhoon that hit the country yesterday, causing numerous victims: “Deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life resulting from the recent typhoon in the eastern Philippines, His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI assures all

hospitality. He sent his best wishes “in particular to the young, who are the future of the country.” The Pontiff sent brief messages to Greek President Karolos Papoulias and Albanian President Alfred Moisiu. To Italy’s Giorgio Napolitano, he reported that he had been able to meet with many different representatives of the Turkish people, and

Pope ends Turkish visit

Benedict XVI: “My trip is not political but pastoral” VATICAN CITY, Nevember 28, 2006— At 9.20 a.m. today, the Holy Father departed from Rome’s Fiumicino airport bound for Turkey, where he landed three hours later at Ankara’s Esemboga airport. Thus began Benedict XVI’s fifth apostolic trip outside Italy. Speaking to the journalists accompanying him on his flight, the Pope affirmed that his visit to Turkey “is not political but pastoral,” and that its aim is “dialogue and the shared commitment to peace.” As he descended from his aircraft, the Holy Father was greeted by Recep Tayyip Erdogan, prime minister of Turkey, by the governor of the local region, and by the military commander and the mayor of Ankara, the capital of Turkey, a city of some five million inhabitants. Also there to greet him was Archbishop Ruggero Franceschini O.F.M. Cap., of Izmir, president of the Catholic Episcopal Conference of Turkey. The Holy Father then went to a room within the airport building where he held a meeting with the prime minister. Following this meeting, which lasted 20 minutes, the Pope traveled by car to the Mausoleum of Ataturk some 45 kilometers from the city. Built between 1944 and 1953, it holds the earthly remains of Mustafa Kemal “Ataturk” (Father of the Turks),

to the heads of state of each country over which his plane passed: Turkey, Greece, Albania, and Italy. The Holy Father had wired greetings to each leader on Tuesday, November 28, as he made the trip from Rome to Ankara. In his message to Sezer, the Pope said that he had been touched by his contact with the people of Turkey and their

TEHRAN, Iran, December 2, 20—Discretion but also negative tones characterize coverage of the Pope’s trip to Turkey in the Iranian press. By contrast, victimhood and triumphalism (“The Pope apologizes”) had been front and centre in almost every Iranian paper following Benedict’s speech in Regensburg and his quote of Manuel II Palaiologos. “Spontaneous” street demonstrations were organized with some Muslim leaders criticizing the Pope’s “Islamophobia”. Only former President Kathami and his successor Ahmadinejad had chosen

not to criticize the speech. This time the visit by the Supreme Pontiff in neighboring Turkey received a limited coverage. Editorial pages, closely monitored by the Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance, rehashed what the Pope said in Regensburg but failed to report his clarifications (“the so-called apologies). The general impression conveyed by the press is that Benedict XVI is indeed “Islamophobic”, or even worse. Even though the Pope no longer calls himself by the traditional title of “Western patriarch”, the Iranian press treat him

as a clone (or ally) of Bush and Blair as if every USBritish political move was in and of itself “Christian” or the Catholic Church only Western. For reformist newspaper Iran News, “Islamic-Christian relations are at their lowest point since the Crusades” and the Pope’s visit seen as “controversial and sensational”, scorned by Turkish society. In its front page, the Conservative Tehran Times wrote: “Dialogue with Islam or Christian alliance against Muslims?” Both papers stressed the fact that Benedict XVI’s visit was designed to strengthen Christian unity and gain greater room for Christians vis-àvis the Turkish state. The perplexity expressed in Iran’s press towards Christian ecumenism and the whispered charges of anti-Islamic coalition can be interpreted in many ways.

But perhaps it is some bitter jealousy. Unlike Christians, there is no ecumenism between Sunnis and Shiites, no attempt to bring about some kind of union; instead, there is a real and open war of religion amongst Muslims as Iraq shows. In Tehran the situation is not much better. Christians have some churches, Jews have a few synagogues but Sunnis have no mosque that they can call their own. For Sunnis who do not want to attend an underground mosque, the only possibility to worship is to attend Friday prayers in a foreign embassy (Indonesia, Saudi Arabia). This might explain why Iran’s Shiite leaders were not particularly pleased to see the expressions of brotherhood between Catholics and Orthodox or hear Benedict XVI’s speech about the rights of religious minorities. (AsiaNews)

Benedict XVI Hopes Turkey Trip Sparks Dialogue VATICAN CITY, December 3, 2006—Benedict XVI hopes that the “unforgettable experience” of his trip to Turkey will contribute to further cooperation and dialogue with Orthodox Christians and followers of Islam. The Holy Father said this today when addressing thousands who gathered in St. Peter’s Square to take part in the first Angelus since his return from Turkey. Speaking from the window of his study, the Pontiff gave thanks to God and everyone around the world who prayed for his pilgrimage to Turkey,

which took place from Nov. 28 to Dec. 1. The Pope expressed his hopes that the trip “will bear good fruits for an ever more sincere cooperation among the disciples of Christ and for a fruitful dialogue with Muslim believers.” The Bishop of Rome renewed his gratitude to all “those who organized the trip and contributed in different ways to its peaceful and fruitful unfolding.” Benedict XVI mentioned in particular “Turkey’s authorities” and the friendly Turkish people, “who offered me

a welcome worthy of their traditional spirit of hospitality.” The Holy Father also remembered “with affection and recognition the beloved Catholic community, which lives on Turkish soil” in conditions “that are often difficult.” “It is truly a small, varied flock rich in enthusiasm and faith which, so to speak, lives the Advent experience constantly and intensely, supported by hope,” said the Pope. The Pontiff had already mentioned his trip to Turkey on Saturday afternoon, in the homily

he delivered in St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican during vespers of the first Sunday of Advent. “Peace is the goal toward which humanity aspires. For believers, peace is one of the most beautiful names of God, who wants understanding among all his children, as I had the occasion to recall on my pilgrimage of these past days in Turkey,” Benedict XVI said. As the Pope announced at the Angelus, next Wednesday he will offer an evaluation of his visit during the weekly general audience to pilgrims. (Zenit.org)

CBCP Monitor

News Feature

Vol. 10 No. 17 December 4, 2006

NCR Holds 2 nd Regional VOCFEST

By Rev. Fr. Joel Francis Victorino

Cause of Beatification of Fr. Peyton in Progress

ABOUT five thousand young people from Metro Manila and Rizal province gathered on November 24-25, 2006 for the 2nd Regional Vocation Festival at “The Arena” in San Juan, Metro Manila. Dubbed as “God’s Dream Academy – Jesus: Heart 2 Heart” the festival was celebrated to create an awareness among young people that life is a school where people are formed not only to seek Jesus but to be His loving presence in the world today. Concretely, the festival sought to inspire and capture the hearts of the youth towards a purposeful life direction, forming real values in life and challenging them in their journey through life by choosing God as their only good. A joint activity of the Directors of Vocations in the Philippines – National Capital Region (DVP-NCR), the Ministry for Youth Affairs (MYA) of the Archdiocese of Manila, and the Heart of Jesus Jubilee Secretariat, this was a follow-up of the first vocation festival held in 2004 which was hosted by the Diocese of Antipolo. At the first festival held in Marikina, more than 6,000 youths celebrated the “culture of vocations” through an acquaintance partystyle event called “Godstruck.” During that youth gathering, the participants reflected on the prevailing mentality of being “star-

By Pinky B. Barrientos, FSP “THE family that prays together stays together.” The slogan has become a household phrase not only in the United States where it originated but in every corner of the world. It has become a rallying motto for Fr. Patrick Peyton, CSC, founder of Family Rosary Crusade; now Servant of God. People dubbed Peyton as the Rosary Priest because of his profound devotion to the Blessed Mother and the Rosary. The Philippine rogatory trial for the cause of beatification of the Servant of God, Patrick Peyton has been declared officially closed with a thanksgiving mass at the Manila Cathedral last November 24, 2006. The closing rites and thanksgiving mass was presided by His Eminence Gaudencio Cardinal

Rosales and concelebrated by some members of Manila clergy, and friends of Fr. Peyton. The cause of beatification of Fr. Peyton was formally opened on June 1, 2002 in Massachusetts, USA. But, due to the presence of many witnesses in the Philippines who knew and met Fr . Peyton during his frequent visits in the country, a rogatory commission was opened to hear the testimony of witnesses. The Philippine rogatory trial, which was started October 30 of last year, took all of one year and two weeks to complete. “The rogatory trial is part of the cause of beatification,” explains Pie Mabanta, Vice-Postulator of the cause. Mabanta is in

charge of the office of the cause and has been appointed as vice-postulator for the Philippines by the Postulator General Dr. Andrea Ambrosi, who is based in Rome. “The first phase of the beatification process is to determine the sanctity of the person, the Servant of God,” continues Mabanta. “So we’re trying to get witnesses to his virtues and holiness. Given the number of witnesses in the Philippines, a rogatory trial is conducted here for his life and reputation of holiness.” Mabanta assumes other rogatory trials are being held in other parts of the globe considering that Peyton was a citizen of the world during his lifetime.

struck” by what the world is offering. With the battle cry “Dream, Believe, Serve,” the challenge was not only to survive in the world but to serve God and the Church in the most concrete expressions of life—perhaps even to the priestly and religious life. This year’s edition was hosted by the Archdiocese of Manila in celebration of the Year of Social Concerns (proclaimed by the CBCP), the first encyclical “Deus Caritas Est” (God is Love) of Pope Benedict XVI and the fiftieth anniversary of Pope Pius XII’s encyclical, “Haurietis Aquas” (on the devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus). Youth delegates from the Archdiocese of Manila, the Dioceses of Antipolo, Cubao, Kalookan, Novaliches, Paranaque, Pasig and the Military Ordinariate of the Philippines started coming in as early at four o’clock in the afternoon. A large number of priests, seminarians, religious men and women, lay vocation promoters and youth leaders were also at hand to facilitate the said activity. The program of the said festival was divided into three parts. The first part put the participants into the context of social issues being faced by Filipinos today. The political, economic, environmental and moral NCR Holds / P9

Cause of / P9

Sunday: Primordial Nucleus of the Liturgical Year

Pastor’s Heart Takes Benedict XVI to Turkey ROME, NOV. 30, 2006—As the papal visit to Turkey grew closer, it seemed that the Turkish tug-of-war between the Vatican and the media intensified. Newspapers, television and radio harped on the significance of Benedict XVI’s visit to a Muslim country, stridently announcing the protests and politics of the trip. The Vatican, on the other hands, kept gently repeating that the “trip” was really a pilgrimage, and that long before the European Union or even Pope Benedict XVI (R) is greeted by Turkish president Ahmet Necdet Islam existed, Constantinople Sezer at the presidential palace in Ankara . The pontiff expressed was established as the first 'confidence and hope' for a challenging four-day visit to Turkey, where his remarks in September linking Islam and violence still rankle. (Corbis) Christian city. If one pays attention to the historical and Europe and Asia, Constantinople also linked cultural context of this papal voyage, the dates the northern and southern areas of the empire and places will reveal more about the Pope’s through the Black Sea on one coast and the Mediterranean on the other. This great crossplans than any sensationalizing headline. Constantinople, or “Secunda Roma” (the roads of the known world geographically exemsecond Rome), was founded by Emperor plified the universality of the Christian Church. Constantine conceived of the city as a Constantine in 330 on the site of an earlier Greek city, Byzantium. Constantine, after uniting the new Rome, and an even better Rome, because empire and legalizing Christianity, had built six it would be Christian. Like Rome itself, churches in Rome, but soon realized that he Constantinople was spread across seven hills. would never be able to realize his dream of a The visit of the Roman Pontiff to Turkey, Christian city in a town still dominated by pa- the center of the world in which Christianity gan gods. was born, represents a papal agenda conSo he founded this new city on the cerned more with his own flock than the media Bosporus. Ideally situated at the juncture of might imagine. (Zenit)

By Elizabeth Lev

VATICAN CITY, December 1, 2006—Made public today was a Message from Benedict XVI to Cardinal Francis Arinze, prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, for a study day organized by that dicastery, which takes place today and is dedicated to the theme of: “Sunday Mass for the sanctification of Christian people.” In the text, which is dated November 27, the Pope recalls how the study day falls on the anniversary of the promulgation of the Constitution “Sacrosanctum Concilium,” and is the third of its kind following one dedicated to the Roman Martyrology and another to sacred music. “Sundays,” writes the Pope, “remain the fundamental seedbed and the primordial nucleus of the liturgical year; ... a fragment of time pervaded by eternity, because its dawn saw the Risen Christ enter victoriously into eternal life.” “For the first Christians, participation in Sunday celebrations was the natural expression of their belonging to Christ, of their communion with His mystical Body, in joyous ex-

Holy Father’s Prayer Intentions for December VATICAN CITY, December 1, 2006—The Holy Father’s general prayer intention for December is: “That Christ, meek and humble of heart, may inspire those responsible for nations to use power wisely and responsibly.” His mission intention is: “That in every part of the world missionaries may live out their vocation with joy and enthusiasm, faithfully following in Christ’s footsteps.” (VIS)

pectation of His glorious return.” “Today,” the Holy Father continues, “it is more than ever necessary to reiterate the sacred nature of the Lord’s day and the need to participate in Sunday Mass. The cultural context in which we live, often marked by religious indifference and secularism that obscure the horizon of transcendence, must not cause us to forget that the People of God who came into being with the events of Easter must return [to those events] as an inexhaustible spring, in order to better understand ... their own identity and the reasons for their existence.” “Sunday was not chosen by the Christian community,” he writes, “rather by the Apostles, indeed by Christ Himself Who on that day, “the first day of the week,” arose and appeared before the disciples. ... Each Sunday celebration of the Eucharist enacts the sanctification of Christian people, until that Sunday without end, the day of the definitive encounter of God with His creatures.” Benedict XVI closes his message by expressing the hope that the study day “may help to recover the Christian meaning of Sunday in ... the life of all believers.” (VIS)

News

4 Archdiocese of Tuguegarao Marks Jubilee Year In a Decree issued October this year, Archbishop Diosdado Talamayan formally declared October 19, 2006 to October 19, 2007 as a Year of Jubilees for the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao. (See Decree in page 12) His archdiocese has taken special initiatives to help lay people to better understand the significance of the year, said Talamayan. Other celebrations in line with the declaration of the Jubilee Year include the prelate’s golden anniversary of his priesthood on November 30, 2006; 20th year of his appointment and installation as archbishop of Tuguegarao. Talamayan asked the faithful to rejoice and give thanks with him as he also celebrate his 20th year of appointment and installation as Archbishop of Tuguegarao which falls on January 31, 2006 and April 10, 2006 respectively. He is encouraging visits to adoration chapels and pilgrimages to diocesan or parish shrines during the year. More specifically, the arch-

CBCP Monitor

diocese has prepared discussions, moments of meditation, prayers, seminars and cultural activities that involve priests, religious, parents, youth and children. A convention for the Indigenous Peoples was on the occasion of his 50th sacerdotal celebration where Talamayan gave a talk on the “Dignity of Human Rights of IPs and the Message of Jesus: Deus Caritas Est.” Other activities in line with the celebration of the Jubilee Year are: the groundbreaking ceremony and construction of the Clergy Retirement of the archdiocese; implementation of Basic Ecclesial Communities as the pastoral thrust of the archdiocese; the erection of two new parishes—the Divine Mercy Parish in Pengue and the Holy Parish in Gadu, both in Cagayan; mass confirmations in parishes; and other activities of spiritual import. “Let this be a year of thanksgiving to God for all the blessings bestowed upon me and my pastoral ministry,” said Talamayan. (Miami Ebilane)

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gather data needed in the relief and rehabilitation efforts due to inaccessibility of some areas. Fearing outbreaks of disease, the NASSA has called for international aid for medicine, potable water and food. NASSA’s relief operations are underway, giving special priority to those whose farms and livelihood have been lost. “Majority of the damages during the incidents involved their sources of livelihood. Now that everything is all gone, people have nothing but their precious life,” it said. In an initial report, the NASSA has initially released 900 sacks of rice to nine DSACs through the National Food Authority (NFA). The NASSA assured close monitoring of the areas hit by the super typhoon to keep track and help sustain the immediate needs of the victims.

the Social Actions Centers of the every diocese nationwide or through the National Secretariat for Social Action (NASSA) at the CBCP Headquarters in Intramuros. Jaro Archbishop Angel Lagdameo, CBCP president, said the people should try to live their Christian faith by extending their help to the typhoon victims. “May we be strong in our faith, hope and love of God and of our neighbor in these times of difficulties,” he prayed. “May we read correctly the signs of the times of salvation and grow in our maturity and openness.” The National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) placed the latest death count in areas heavily affected by the typhoon at 425, while 599 were still missing as of December 4.

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Vol. 10 No. 17 December 4, 2006

Conference to Discuss Family and Bioethics in Manila THE Catholic Church in the Philippines, in collaboration with the Vatican-based Pontifical Academy for Life, has organized an International Conference on Bioethics and the Family on January 9-10, 2007. The Office on Bioethics of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) announced that the theme of the event is “The Challenge of Bioethics to Human Life and the Family” which will be held at the EDSA Shangri-La Hotel in Mandaluyong City. The speakers, some of them coming from abroad, will deal with various topics and issues that are going to

PBS Marks 107 Years, Inaugurates New Facility THE Philippine Bible Society (PBS) celebrated two milestones last November 23 with the commemoration of 107 years of formal Bible work in the country and the inauguration of their new ministry facility and Bible House. As the Bible Society celebrated these landmark events in their history, PBS Secretary General Nora G. Lucero announced that the Bible Society has renewed its commitment to the vision of a transformed Philippines through the Word of God. “We reaffirm our goal of reaching out to every Filipino household, spreading the Good News to them, in the hope of making all of us true Christians in our thoughts, words, and deeds,” Lucero said. The festivities united the different stakeholders in the Bible cause. Apart from the different leaders of the Roman Catholic and Protestant churches, the PBS members, partners from Bible ministries, and other friends of the Bible Society also graced the occasion. PBS’s foreign partners were also present and were among the occasion’s special guests: United Bible Societies Asia-Pacific Area Secretary David Thorne, Korean

Bible Society General Secretary Dr. Young Jin Min, and Rev. Makoto Watabe of the Japan Bible Society. The celebration also commemorated the establishment of a Bible depot by American Bible Society representative Rev. Jay C. Goodrich in Manila on November 30, 1899, signaling the start of formal Bible Society work in the Philippines. Another highlight of the thanksgiving program was the recognition of past board members, former translators, and volunteers of the Bible Society. Lucero, who handed out tokens of appreciation for the honorees, also gave tribute to PBS Executive Consultant Dr. Medarlo Rivera. She credits the former General Secretary for pushing for the realization of PBS’ longtime dream of establishing a new “BibleHouse” at their permanent address at 890 United Nations Avenue, Manila. Lucero also underscored that it was “only through God’s grace” that they were able to construct a new building for the Bible cause. “It is a fitting testimony to God’s ever abounding grace, faithfulness, and love for the Filipino people,” she

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“All of us are called to be friends of Christ and the PWD’s are also friends to everyone,” said Fr. Alexander Thomas, AMO-PDM minister. He said the main objective of the Catholic PWD Day is to gather students, parish youth and adults with disabilities and allow them to build camaraderie and friendship with one another and with dedicated volunteers and friends. The AMO-PDM was established under the watch of the late and former Manila Archbishop Jaime Cardinal Sin. The PWD day

celebration was started by Fr. Nonette Legazpi, who was the former AMO-PDM director. “We will continue the program until there are PWDs,” said Thomas. “I hope that the participants will feel that they want to see each other again and they can show their talents so other people will appreciate them.” The priest thanked the volunteers for the support and for extending their hands to the differently-abled brothers and sisters as he encouraged them to invite and convince more volunteers. (CBCP News)

Christian, Muslim / from p1

Diocese Offers / from p1

Lobregat, said he was “overwhelmed” by the huge attendance: “The people of Zamboanga are sending a strong message that we all want peace, we want an end to hostilities.” Romeo Abela, a man with a disability who took part in the march, said: “I just want to show to the whole world that despite our condition, we are longing and working hard to build peace.” Marx De Cruz is a member of the Little Drummer Boys, a group of boys who beg on the streets, singing and dancing. The boy said: “We took time off from asking money to perform here but we are happy and proud to be part of this rally.” (AsiaNews)

sengers, sank in rough seas off Surigao del Norte province. As of press time, authorities are still determining how many are missing including Del Carmen Mayor Arlene Navarro, who according to Cabajog has been a strong supporter of the local Church. The bishop, who just arrived from Israel, also called on the government for a thorough investigation of the tragedy. He said the clergy in Surigao will offer Masses for the eternal repose of the souls of those who perished in the incident. (Miami Ebilane)

affect every pastor, every congregation and every family. Addresses and panel discussions will focus on issues such as stem-cell research, cloning, and marriage and family issues. Priests, nuns, seminarians, students and lay people will be attending the conference. Founded by the late Pope John Paul II in 1994, the Pontifical Academy of Life includes 51 ordinary members from around the world, all appointed by the Pope, who are experts in various biomedical sciences and those related to the promotion and defense of life. (CBCP News)

Lingayen-Dagupan Archbishop Oscar Cruz said it is wrong to claim that population is the cause of social adversities in the country today. The reaction came after Ramos, speaking at a forum on family planning in Makati City, blamed Arroyo’s “unwarranted subservience” to the Catholic Church which consequently jeopardized the country’s future. He said the strong influence of the church is to blame for the “runaway” population growth which had put the nation in peril. This has drawn criticism from those working on the church’s family and life ministries, who opposed to artificial methods of birth control. Without naming Ramos, a strong supporter of Arroyo, Cruz said “certain politicians again loudly and proudly proclaim their old-time favorite thesis: population is the culprit for the poverty of the people and the misery of the nation.” “(Politicians) complaint that there are too many mouths to feed with too little food to eat. There are too many people without work, without education, without health care. There is too much crime in the streets, too much garbage around, too much air pollution.”

said. The old Philippine Bible House, established in 1912 along Isaac Peral Street, had to give way to a new UN BibleHouse. It would be from this very facility that the Bible Society would direct their growing work in Bible advocacy, translation, production, marketing, and fundraising. Apart from the offices of the various departments, and the bookstore, this new facility will also house a Bible Museum that will provide interactive learning facilities and experiences for visitors, especially children and youth to enable them to engage the life-changing power of God’s Word. The new building facility was dedicated prior to the thanksgiving program. Bishops from different denominations also joined the floorby-floor dedication of the 8-storey building after the ribbon-cutting ceremonies at the main entrance and the bookstore. During the celebration, PBS also hosted Bible Extravaganza, a program with fun-filled activities like storytelling, Treasure Hunt, and a Bible quiz for elementary and high school students. (Herbert Osio)

Manila City / from p1 “Translation: population is the enemy of the state,” said Cruz, a former president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP). Arguing that is not necessarily the cause of poverty, he compared wealthy and thickly populated countries like China, Japan and Hongkong to the African continent which has a small population but “not an affluent place.” “This means that population itself—big or small—does not necessarily translate to poverty or affluence,” he said. The prelate has instead put the blame to political leaders and the kind of governance the country has as the reason why many people suffer in the country. “When political leaders lie, cheat and steal, when public offices become a common public curse especially in terms of graft and corruption, when public funds from big direct and many indirect taxes go to the private pockets—all these impoverish the nation, violate the population,” Cruz added. “Population is the wealth of a nation! A government may be the enemy of the state! The kind of governance can be the curse of the citizens! Not the population!” (CBCP News)

CBCP spokesman Msgr. Pedro Quitorio said authorities should strictly enforce the ban and make sure no abortifacients are sold in the city. “We encourage law enforcers in their campaign because abortion is illegal. It is both considered illegal by the Constitution and by the Church,” he said. Manila Mayor Lito Atienza ordered police operatives to conduct a citywide crackdown against herbal traders which use their business as fronts for selling abortion pills. Atienza, Pro-Life Philippines chairman, confirmed the presence of illegal vendors in several Quiapo streets. The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) operatives recently nabbed six people peddling abortion pills outside near Quiapo Church. Confiscated from them were 20 tablets of Cytotek (generic name Misoprostol) and other herbal preparations being openly sold as abortifacients. The drug was formulated to treat gastric ulcers but commonly misused as an abortifacient. The arrested face criminal cases under Executive Order 175 amending Section 11 of Republic Act 3720 or the Food, Drugs, and Cosmetics Act, with a prison term of one to four years and a fine of P5, 000 to P10, 000. (CBCP News)

CBCP Monitor

Feature

Vol. 10 No. 17 December 4, 2006

5 7 QUESTIONS for Bp. Filomeno G. Bactol

Photo credit: Ma. Jhona B. Acuña, PNU

Most Rev. Filomeno G. Bactol, D.D., who celebrated his 25 th episcopal ordination anniversary last October, was installed in 1989 as the first bishop of Naval (Biliran). Recently, he talked to CBCP Monitor about the 17-year old Naval diocese’s current profile and programs on catechesis, vocations, laity, social concern and ecology.

Notes: The Bible and the Environment “In the Name of the Almighty, God the Creator, God of Harmony, Care for the Earth!” (Theme of the 2006 Mindanao Week of Peace).

(This piece was delivered at the Bishops-Ulama Conference held in Davao City on November 29, 2006)

By Archbishop Orlando B. Quevedo, O.M.I MAY I thank our three distinguish convenors, Governor Mahid Mutilan, Bishop Gomez of the UCCP and Archbishop Capalla for inviting me to reflect with you on the environment in the light of the Bible. Professor Hamid Barra, I understand, will reflect on the same topic in the light of the Qu’ran. First, some preliminary notes: a. The Bible consists of the books considered by Christians as inspired by God and can, therefore, be called “the word of God.” It is divided into two sections—the Old Testament (or the Hebrew Scriptures) and the New Testament (those that pertain to the revelation of Jesus the Christ, Lord and Savior). b. The Environment—I shall use the term interchangeably with the word “creation” or everything created by God. The specific issues I would like to reflect on are: a. God and Creation/Environment; b. The Human Person’s Place in Creation; c. The Human Person’s Role and Responsibility regarding Creation/ Environment. I shall treat the above in terms of the three general stages of what Christians call “the history of salvation.” A. At the Beginning of Time. There are two stories of Creation. The first story is in Chapter 1 and the second is in chapter 2, both in the first book of the Bible, the Book of Genesis. I shall use only the first story. [The second story of creation explains the creation of man and woman and they are to be in total unity— “bone of my bone, flesh of my flesh.”] God Created All Things, Entrusted them to Man in Responsible Stewardship. • “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth “ (v. 1). God said, ‘Let there be light’, and there was light” (v. 2). In six days God created in succession light, day and night, water, sea, land, vegetation, plants, and trees, stars, sun, moon, fish, animals. God rested on the seventh day. There is a theological meaning to this series of creative activities. One day is not to be understood according to our time measurement.

What is taught is simply theological—that in the week there are days of work and a day of rest called the Sabbath. “God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on that day he rested after all his work of creating” (Gen 2:3). It would also seem that the story of creation refers only to our earth, but the theological meaning of “light” refers to the whole universe, known and unknown. God created “all things.” • And God saw how good everything was that came from his creative power. This is repeated like a refrain in Gen 1: 10, 12,18, 21, 25. It is repeated for yet one last time in v. 31: “God saw all he had made, and indeed it was very good.” • Then finally created Man—the final product of creation, at the pinnacle of creation. Man is the only one described as made into the image of God. “God created man in the image of himself, in the image of God he created him, male and female he created them” (Gen. 1:27). • Finally God gave to Man and Woman everything that he has created. All creation belongs to them. It is entrusted to them. “Be fertile and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it. Have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and all the living things that move on the earth” (Gen. 1:28; see Psalm 8: 6-10) Thus the Lord entrusted all creation to man’s responsibility, charging man to care for its harmony and development (Gen. 1: 26-30). This is the collective responsibility of the human race. Man is simply God’s steward. And all things are given for the good of ALL. In Catholic social teaching this is the principle of “the Universal Destination of all Created Goods.” B. The In-Between Time: i.e. up to the Second Coming of Christ. Between now and the end of time, what is the significance of creation and man’s responsibility over it? Creation Declares God’s Glory and Love. • Creation is a reason to praise God! (see Psalm 104:24 – “O Lord, how manifold are your works! In wisdom you have made them all!”).

• All of creation is itself praising God, because creation manifests the love of God for man. See Psalm 19:1—”The heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament proclaims his handiwork!” Or the beautiful Hymn of all creation to the Almighty Creator, Psalm 148:24, 7-12 — “Let heaven praise Yahweh: praise him heavenly heights, praise him, all his angels, praise him, all his hosts! Praise him, sun and moon, praise him, shining stars, praise him, highest heavens…. Let earth praise Yahweh: sea-monsters and all the deeps, fire and hail, snow and mist, gales that obey his decree, mountains and hills, orchards and forests, wild animals and farm animals, snakes and birds, all kings on earth and nations, princes, all rulers in the world, young men and girls, old people and children too!” Creation is a “Garden” to be “Cultivated” • In a true sense, the world and its environment is a “garden” (like the Garden of Eden) that man is supposed to “cultivate” (Gen 2:15). This is the meaning of God’s command to Adam and Eve: “…fill the earth and conquer it. Be masters….” (Gen. 1: 28). • Because the world is God’s creation, a good relationship to the world is a good relationship to God. Sin Creates Disharmony in the Garden • Original sin, the sin of our first parents, according to the bible has compromised our relationship with the environment. Sin is like a wilderness which has covered what should be a fruitful field—a life of grace with God. In the Old Testament, environmental and human disasters were attributed to sin, e.g., drought and famine, floods (as in the time of Noah). • Sin has created disharmony between man and God, between man and his world, between the world and God. Christ Restores Harmony—a “new Creation.” • Our time on earth is a time of purification from the wilderness of sin, a time of restoring harmony The Bible / P10

What is the current status of your diocese? Well, we are about 280,000 Catholics. We’re just a small diocese compared to other dioceses which have some over a million population. We have only 15 parishes and the total number of our priests is only 28. We’re certainly a young diocese, barely 17 years old since our inception in 1989. Even so, in 1999, only 10 years after our foundation as a diocese, we already held our diocesan synod, where we gathered not only the clergy and the religious but also the lay people all over the diocese and discussed the direction that we wanted to have as a Church. And one of the significant or tangible aftermaths of that synod was the creation and implementation of the Basic Ecclesial Communities (BEC) in 2001. So our BECs are just 5 years old by now. With only 28 priests in the whole diocese, it appears that there’s a lack of priestly vocations in your area. Why is this so?

In the diocese, we have around 520 volunteer catechists. We divided ourselves into 3 vicariates, and a religious sister handles the catechetical apostolate for each vicariate. They work really hard together with some lay leaders. How is the Church’s social concern agenda being observed in your diocese? Again, our social concern program is implemented though the BEC, where our pastoral programs of WESTECFLY (Worship, Education, Social Services, Temporalities, Ecology, Clergy, Family, Life, and Youth) are already incorporated. To respond to the Church’s social concern agenda, we have already integrated that into our BEC’s program areas. For instance in the areas of social services, our social action commission is very busy in attending to the concerns and needs of the poor people like livelihood micro-financial assistance for the poor populace.

Well, I think there’s no such diocese that has more than enough priests. Definitely, with only 28 priests, we’re certainly lacking in priests vis-à-vis our population. Perhaps one reason for such lack of priestly vocations is poverty. This was actually verified according to our findings. Most of our people are poor and they can’t send their sons to enroll in the seminary due to financial reasons. Although now we conduct second collections during fiesta masses for purposes of supporting the seminary. But still, this is just a minuscule amount compared to the financial requirement needed to support a seminarian until his ordination.

You mentioned ecology as one area of your pastoral programs. How is this particularly carried out?

QUESTIONS

How is lay empowerment or participation being realized in your diocese? In order to bring people to an active participation in the Church, we have this BEC. The BEC is really a life of the Church that gives empowerment to the lay faithful. You see, every baptized Catholic is a member of the Church, and we are therefore the Church. The BEC is a new way of being a Church. How is your program on catechesis? Well, this is one of the most visible apostolate that we have.

You see, Biliran is an island province. Its main product is rice and it is likewise rich in forest resources. In such an agricultural community the forests are very important to assure the needed supply of water for the rice fields. So we see to it that we protect our forests by planting more trees. In fact, the diocese has recently undertaken the initiative of planting trees in a forest reserve area some 6 kilometers away from Naval to spearhead in our ecological advocacy of saving our forests. What about the problem of illegal logging? Do you have such problem in your area? You know, there will always be illegal logging everywhere. But in our area, it is not as rampant as in other places. Really, illegal logging cannot be completely eradicated because these illegal loggers know very well that it is one of the best sources of money. In our place however, we try to teach them that if they cut down our trees then we eliminate our principal source of water needed for our irrigations and rice fields, and even for drinking. In Biliran they say we have the sweetest water. That’s why we included ecology as a particular area in our pastoral programs.

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CBCP Monitor

Opinion

Vol. 10 No. 17 December 4, 2006

Editorial

Morality and Politicians THERE are certain politicos who vehemently protest the intervention of morality in their political options and agenda. They do not only fume with anger but are also consumed with hatred when they are reminded of the right or wrong in their options and actions—and, clearly at that, over national TV. They vehemently and adamantly proclaim that morals are altogether irrelevant in their political plans, programs and projects. They want their political intentions and actuations to be over and above the ethical norm of good and bad, beyond what morals consider as virtuous or vicious. That is why they fume with disgust when they are censured for their corrupt ideals, deceptive moves and unjust machinations. In plain language, they claim and want morality and politics to be altogether separate realities such that the former has altogether nothing to do with the latter. This dangerous and insidious stance of some politicos ultimately finds its premise on the tenure of power. They become intoxicated with power thus making them feel omnipotent, invincible and eventually corrupt. For these powerful politicos, the norms of ethics and the imperatives of morals are immaterial and inconsequential. If such mentality or culture, if you may, of certain politicos were true, the consequences would be to their own ridicule and shame. One: They would neither be members of humanity nor constituents of human society that are precisely ruled by ethical standards and moral principles— considering that even law itself must be founded on what is right, good and just Two: They should divest themselves of human dignity, do away with their conscience, switch off their innate sense of right or wrong—similar to irrational creatures, mere robots and machines. Three: They should be shunned and avoided whereas they would be either futile to reason with or exasperating to deal with—and probably even dangerous to relate with. The truth of the matter is that politicians should instead appreciate being reminded of their obligation to live an upright personal life, to make good moral judgments, to exercise their public office according to what ethics say and what morals dictate. This way, they may become a blessing to this country.

Con-Ass and Reming THE seeming obsession, if pell-mell rush, to pursue the Constituent Assembly as a mode of Changing the Philippine Constitution has admittedly become a major concern more than the devastation brought about by typhoon Reming to our people in Bicol. There may be no truth to the whispers that so much logistics and machinations have been pumped in to make sure that the Con-Ass will deodorize the troubles of the day. People in the lower House of Congress are expected to burn candles for a night or two to make the magic wand in place. But there is sure truth to the cries for help among victims of Reming who only got crumbs for their food and relief. With the way things have been going, pray that Con-Ass and those behind it would not end up devastating this country more than Reming did.

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Abp. Angel N. Lagdameo, DD

In and Out of Season “THE church values the democratic system in as much as it ensures the participation of the citizens in making political choices, guarantees to the govern the possibility both of electing and holding accountable those who govern them, and of replacing them through peaceful means when appropriate.” (Pope John Paul II, Centessimus Annus, Encyclical # 46). “The local churches are heavily involved in the formation of a civil conscience and in the education of citizens to a true democracy. Episcopal conferences of many countries have made interventions against corruption and on behalf of a society that is governed by law” (Cardinal Renato Raffaele Martino, President of Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, # 11). The Social Doctrine of the Church (as stated above) behooves the Church to intervene in behalf of true democracy. The subject matter of Charter Change (CHA-CHA), is far more serious a matter than changing the names of streets and the creation of provinces which require both the House of Representatives and the Senate to separately vote for approval. Far more serious, because it will determine the future of our government and of the Filipino people. Hence, we

disapprove a Constitution fabricated by only the House of Congress. Understanding the gravity of CHACHA and its perceived consequences, the CBCP, in several Pastoral Statements this Year of Social Concerns, has expressed its negative judgment on the proposal of the House of Representatives converting itself into a Constituent Assembly (CON-ASS). We sense through the media that the highest leadership of the land and of Congress in particular seem to be so “desperate” that they would even change the Constitutional Rules of Congress in order to speedily pursue and accommodate the Constituent Assembly (CON-ASS). If the term of our elected officials could be extended by six months to one year to institute the CHA-CHA by CON-ASS, such could further encourage a longer and longer term. The saying goes “when power corrupts, it corrupts absolutely.” NO TO CONSTITUENT ASSEMBLY. If the election would be postponed to accommodate the CHA-CHA by CONASS, what will stop congress to postpone it for another time and again for another time? We sense here a serious temptation to our elected officials to perpetuate themselves in power. NO TO

On the Book “I, A Fellow Shepherd” RECENTLY Time Magazine carried a feature on 60 Years of Asian Heroes—a tribute to men and women of Asia “who have shaped our destiny and our times.” And I thought of the Philippines, a nation beloved by the Lord. Yet a nation seemingly bent on tearing itself to pieces because its sons and daughters are becoming more and more estranged from friendship with Christ and with each other. Where are our heroes? “I, a Fellow Shepherd” the book which compiles selected homilies of His Eminence Ricardo J. Cardinal Vidal, so very thoughtfully sent to me by Fr. Agustin Ancajas, answers my question. A hero of our times, a Good Shepherd who among other good shepherds as first among equals, is the author of the homilies—Ricardo J. Cardinal Vidal. I wanted to email Time Magazine how

Please. No to ConAss, yes to Con-Con POSTPONENENT OF MAY ELECTION. O God, please deliver our elected officials from such temptation; give them the humility and courage to accept the demands of genuine democracy. And God, please deliver our country from the evil of Martial Law, never again Martial Law. We pray: NO TO MARTIAL LAW. As CBCP earlier has said: while we agree that certain aspects of our Constitution may need amendments and/or revision, we do not support hasty effort to change this fundamental law without widespread discussion and participation of people who are not in congress but knowledgeable in law. We continue to believe that major shifts in the form of government require widespread participation of civilian society, and relative serenity allowing national discussion and debate. This is best done through a Constitutional Convention (CON-CON) where the members are elected by the people precisely for the purpose of framing a new Constitution. We have many illustrious and credible non-politicians who can help frame a new Constitution. A CON-CON might be very expensive, but it is worth spending much for something that is good for the greatest number. And so we say: YES, TO CHA-CHA through CON-CON.

Ambassador Henrietta T. de Villa

could they have missed His Eminence in their roster of Asian heroes. But then I guess their criteria of high visibility and loud proclamation would not find comfortable fit into the nature of the author-bishop. In his own words, in the selection, Truth That Sanctifies, Cardinal Vidal points out “that the bishop must proclaim the Person of Jesus himself”—Jesus and not his own person. The book enunciates in very clear terms the challenges each and all bishops must be prepared to respond to. In fact the author with such disarming candor states, “Ever since I was ordained Bishop, I have had problems for breakfast, and gone to bed with them. Welcome to the world of problems … welcome to the world of bishops, where half the population thinks you can solve their problems, and the other half thinks

Faith and F ir e Fir ire you are the problem!” In spite of the world of problems, the Cardinal has retained his sense of humor, and remains a minister of joy. How can this be so? Because Cardinal Vidal has found joy in the Cross—Gaudium in Cruce. The homilies in “I, a Fellow Shepherd,” are replete with what defines a bishop, what should move him, what is the hundredfold he can look forward to. To cite some—Love is the foundation of Shepherdhood … love your people with the love of God … allow yourself to be loved by God through the affection of his people … the bishop is truly a person who touches the lives of others … he visits his people, he feels for them, he lends his presence to them. How true what he says. A month Faith / P8

CBCP Monitor

Opinion

Vol. 10 No. 17 December 4, 2006

Oscar V. Cruz, DD

Vie ws and P oints iews Points CERTAIN politicians once again loudly and proudly proclaim their old-time favorite thesis: population is he culprit for the poverty of the people and the misery of the nation. Translation: population is the enemy of the state. As usual, they complain that there are too many mouths to feed with too little food to eat. There are too many people without work, without education, without health care. There is too much crime in the streets, too much garbage around, too much air pollution. Population is synonymous with disaster. The population is primary cause of all social adversities. Population is the key in all the present local and national socioeconomic reversals taking place all over the country. Conclusion: down with the population! Population is the curse of the nation. Depopulate the country by all

means. The lesser the people, the better. Big population equals want. Small population means abundance. More population spells indigence. Less population brings wealth. Anti-population politicians conveniently forget that they themselves, their parents and siblings plus their own children and grandchildren, add to the population of the country. Should people also shout: Down with politicians! Away with politicos! Anti-population politicians presumably well know that the country now has but a service economy. This simply means that the national export is people. Domestic helpers, laborers, care givers, nurses and millions of other Filipinos abroad are those keeping the nation financially afloat through their big and regular dollar remittances. Even call centers ultimately mean people helping the

Focus on Albay PICTURE this: the sun rises at half past six in the morning along the southern portion of the 2,462-meter Mayon Volcano from the Daang Maharlika at Barangay Matacon, Polangui, Albay. You get to see trees along the horizon minus its smaller branches and eye-soothing green leaves. These images would remind one of people seeking all possible help, prayers included, to get them back to their feet, comparable with men, women and children asking for deliverance. The sight seems to send a message up there for a much-needed break from the series of natural calamities. From a safe distance one wouldn’t notice the severe damage brought about by Reming in terms of lives, properties and a merry celebration of Christmas. First to hit the province was Mayon Volcano’s abnormal activities which sent thousands to government-run evacuation centers. Then came Milenyo which brought government infrastructures down and now, the full wrath of Reming. Along the stretch, one will see wooden and concrete houses without galvanized iron roofs. A great number of nipa huts have been flattened by the super howler. Going farther south to Oas and Ligao city, coconut trees without their valued crowns could be seen from a distance. In

By the R oadside Roadside

national economy survive. China, Japan, Hong Kong all have big population. And they are wealthy countries. The African continent has a small sum total of population. Yet is not an affluent place. This means that population itself—big or small—does not necessarily translate to poverty or affluence. The question is—as it has always been—the kind of governance a country has. When political leaders lie, cheat and steal, when public offices become a common public curse especially in terms of graft and corruption, when public funds from big direct and many indirect taxes go to the private pockets—all these impoverish the nation, violate the population. Population is the wealth of a nation! A government may be the enemy of the state! The kind of governance can be the curse of the citizens! Not the population!

Melo M. Acuna

Issues and Concerns

Guinobatan town, one could see cadaver bags along the road, in front of Nuestra Senora de Salvacion Funeral Homes. These victims were all buried during the mudflows that immediately followed the 466 millimeter rains (a rainfall record in Albay). Public school buildings, Catholic churches and other facilities took a very big beating. At the village of the late Bishop Teotimo Pacis, a place for the rural poor in Guinobatan, modest homes disappeared as the ground fell due to rampaging flood waters. Even the concrete/steel bridge was cut in half. In Camalig, Guinobatan and Daraga, rice lands and coconut orchards would take years to recover. Farmers would have to find other ways to survive. Where would they go? In Albay’s most trying times, local and national government officials, along with Church leaders have all agreed to focus on those whose houses have been buried under tons of volcanic debris. They will also send relief goods to all victims and assist in rebuilding homes. Albay Governor Fernando Gonzales asked everyone to help. He has practically stayed at the Provincial Capitol and Disaster Coordinating Council offices along with disaster expert Cedric Daep.

Rev. Euly B. Belizar, SThD

TO be Human. Once one of the leading college women’s basketball teams suffered a shocking defeat at home in 2003. It was their first. A newspaper reported how their loss made them realize they’re “human”. They were not the first. Virtually all of us, ordinary people, celebrities, people with authority who fail—husbands, wives, priests or religious, when committing any wrongdoing—invoke variations of the same theme: “I’m only human.” Why is our being human often made an excuse for our weakness, failure, defeat, fault, sin? When we are succeeding, when we do virtuous acts, are we less human? We need to retrieve a truth we often put under the rug, namely, that it’s good to be truly human. In fact, it’s so good that God himself decided to become human too. To be human is to be God’s image and likeness (Gen 1:26). Every Christmas we celebrate God becoming human. That, St. Athanasius teaches, happened so that we might become like God. In Christ Jesus we see not only someone perfectly God but also perfectly human. In Christ our being human goes beyond being “image and likeness of God”. We become sons and daughters in the Son (Gal 4:6-7). Which is why St. Irenaeus urges us to become fully human

Population: Enemy of the State

Fr. Jovic Lobrigo, the Diocese of Legazpi’s Social Action Center director and DWBSCMN Manager Fr. Pau Barandon have coordinated to attend to the needs of the affected evacuees. The Philippine National Red Cross along with volunteers from Southern Leyte (of St. Bernard fame), Makati City, SBMA and the Armed Forces of the Philippines along with recruits from the Philippine National Police have joined in the retrieval operations. It is also in these trying times that we get to see the best and the worst in people. Self-sacrificing leaders and volunteers have always been seen in the forefront. The worst has come out in the alarms that sent thousands to “safer grounds” due to disinformation and not-so-funny practical jokes. May the patroness of Bicol, Our Lady of Pe‘&ñafrancia and Albay’s Nuestra Senora de Salvacion come to the aid of our less fortunate victims in Albay. By the way, donations may be sent to Sagip Reming Fund and Rehab Campaign c/o DZRV-Radyo Veritas 846 with Ms. Lanie Cabral. You may also send your donations to SPM 0851-0067-37 BPI-Albay. Frs. Jovic Lobrigo and Pau Barandon will surely acknowledge your support. Feedbacks through acunamelo@yahoo.com.

To be Human, to be Filipino, to be Catholic

for the glory of God—it is when we realize the fullness of our humanity. St. Ignatius of Antioch, as he was on the brink of martyrdom, said that his goal was to die for Christ because by then he would become “a man”. So as we succeed at loving when it is too difficult to love, in forgiving when it’s well nigh impossible to do so, to do good when doing wrong is so much easier and even more fashionable, why don’t we also say: “Well, that’s because I’m human after all”? To be Filipino. It struck me when I first got hold of a copy of a New Yorkbased newsmagazine named “The Filipino Catholic”. I seldom think of myself in those terms. The phrase reminds me of the late Tom Dooley’s retort to someone who asked him if he was a Roman Catholic. “No,” he said. “I am a Chicago Catholic.” How right. So why can’t you and I also say, “I am a Filipino Catholic”? Usually we say we are Filipino to distinguish ourselves from other nationalities, and that we are Roman Catholic when asked about our religious affiliation. But have we ever thought that putting the two together is crucial for our identity? Two experiences made me ask serious questions about identity. Once in Rome a Japanese tourist

picked me out from the crowd and began asking me questions in Japanese. I said, “I’m sorry. I don’t understand Japanese. I’m Filipino.” In New York City a Chinese lady approached me at a subway station and started asking questions in Chinese. I said, “I’m sorry, Ma’am. I don’t understand Chinese. I’m Filipino.” Whenever I remember them to kabayan friends it surprises me how quite a few come up with similar experiences. I find it remarkable that people of Asian roots often see us from their point of view. So do people of Caucasian roots. And we, with no little help from our colonial past, compare ourselves with them more often than not. In our Asian neighbors we see the discipline and patriotism we wish we had. In the U.S. and Europe we see the affluence and the political and social stability we envy. But comparing ourselves with others does not make us a better people. We should rather compare ourselves with the best of our race. We should compare ourselves with our Jose Rizals, our Andres Bonifacios, our national heroes. We should especially compare ourselves periodically with our heroes of the faith, St. Lorenzo Ruiz and Blessed Pedro Calungsod. They are the Roadside / P8

7 Bp. Leonardo Y. Medroso, JCD, DD

Tidbits

The Dress Code of the Priests THE Time magazine in its anniversary issue of the 13th November 2006 carried among others an article that highlights the danger of global warming and the need to come out with pro-active laws and worldwide consultation to put a stop to climate change. The proponent of this refreshing move is J. McAllister. He cites as one of the main causes of global warming the distorted value that human beings have gradually imbibed in the course of their long relationship with nature. They have formed the attitude of discrimination, taking good care of one and abusing the other. For one, “we”, the author of the article continues, “tend not to look after what isn’t, strictly speaking, ‘ours’, so resources used in common get abused”. Legal scholars, so he says, call this tendency “the tragedy of the commons.” The author is not just speculating for this can readily be observed in the way man mistreats with abandon the environment, particularly, the atmosphere, the air, the water. A similar negative tendency has also been observed in the Church in the ordained minister’s attitude regarding the clerical dress. Clerical attire is the official garb that is to be used by the clergy in his social life, the ecclesiastical uniform supposed to be worn by them in their public appearances. This is an attire that should distinguish the clergy from the rest of the faithful. The universal law came out with specific regulation obliging those who receive the sacred orders to wear this uniform in public as an integral part of his external decorum. Canon 284 expresses it this way: “Clerics are to wear suitable ecclesiastical dress, in accordance with the norms established by the Bishops’ Conference and legitimate local custom.” In compliance with the mandate of the universal law the Philippine hierarchy issued specific norms regarding the ecclesiastical uniform that could serve at the same time as an executory decree enjoining all the ordained ministers in the Philippines to follow. It states: “The proper clerical attire approved by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines are as follows: 1. cassock or religious habit; 2. clergyman’s suit; 3. trousers of dark one-tone color, with the clerical collar. The shirt may also be either polo-barong or barong tagalong, with a distinctive cross” (Testera, Florencio, Canon Law Digest of the Philippine Catholic Church, Manila, 1987, pp. 13-14). The reason for the obligation of wearing the clerical dress code, however, is not at all based on the intention of setting up an elitist class in the Church, a sort of a status symbol for the clergy, installing them not only apart from the rest of the faithful in the ecclesiastical community but also as possessing a higher stateliness and dignity. The real purpose of the ecclesiastical garb is to serve as a public testimony, a manifestation to one and all that the one wearing an ecclesiastical dress is a cleric that he belongs especially to God. It is an outward manifestation of the uniqueness of the priestly ministry. Unfortunately, history has somehow warped the perception of the ecclesiastical garb. There was a time when the Church has experienced the tragedy of ecclesiastical elitism, the tendency, that is, of the clerics to be granted special treatment in the community, to be exempted from some obligations, and to be favored with more and more privileges than the rest of the members of the ecclesial community. To be a cleric at that time was to possess a privileged position in society; to be a cleric was to be considered as one special. The Second Vatican Council tried to eliminate these clerical privileges. It did so by introducing the concept of the People of God, leveling thereof the dignity, rights and duties of all the faithful in the Church. In this concept all the baptized are considered equal. That should have settled the problem of elitism in the Church until another reactionary movement came to the fore. This time it emphasized on what was common to all. Steeped with Vatican II theology and doctrine, some members of the Church made that generalization which states: everything ecclesiastical is elitist. Applying this conclusion to the ecclesiastical dress code, some clerics shirk from wearing the clerical uniform, stating that to wear the official dress is to pose as one who is an ecclesiastic and, therefore, exclusive, snobby, elitist. Hence, they prefer to go in public in t-shirts or in ordinary clothes. It is not that they are necessarily ashamed of their identity as priests or that they have a weak sense of their clerical identity. Rather, they do not like to get the attention of people, who because of the uniform give them privileged treatment, or else be looked at with suspicious and leery glances. They prefer to be left alone, free and unperturbed. In spite of all these, the Church is insistent that her ordained ministers wear the ecclesiastical garb. The reason is simple. The ecclesiastical dress is an external sign, a symbol that is replete with meaning. The clergy who wears it is sending a message to the community of believers as well as to the people in general. The message of the Gospels that the clergy is commissioned to transmit is expressed with words and communicated effectively with external signs, easily understandable to the world of today that is so sensitive to the language Tidbits / P8

CBCP Monitor

Commissions

Vol. 10 No. 17 December 4, 2006

The AMRSP is represented in the commission by three men and three women religious superiors, usually by the co-chairpersons and by the other members of the AMRSP board. Objectives

Mixed Commission on Mutual Relations Between Bishops and Religious (ECMR) AS the name of the commission implies, there is a need to clarify, coordinate and ultimately unite the purposes and programs of the Bishops and Major Religious Superiors in the Philippines. The decree on the Vatican II document Renewal of Religious Life states emphatically that “suitable coordination and cooperation ought to be inaugurated between them (the religious) and the Episcopal Conferences with regard to the exercise of the apostolate” (#23). Guidelines for the decree were supplied in the document Mutuae Relationes. This document was the cradle of the Episcopal Commission on Mutual Relations or ECMR (between Bishops and Religious). The commission therefore is an offshoot of the Vatican II document. The Second Plenary Council of the Philippines has urged the

implementation of three basic concepts concerning the religious in the local Church namely: integration, participation and coordination. These fundamental ideas acknowledge the authority of the local bishops as Shepherd of the Flock and the charism of the religious in building up the People of God. The orientation given by both the Second Vatican Council and the PCP II considers the needs of the faithful as the focus of both authority and charism. Consequently, integration, coordination and collaboration have become essential in the face of pastoral plans, diocesan or national. These then form the basic focus of the commission. (cf. Orlando Quevedo, OMI, DD, Archbishop of Nueva Segovia, CBCP’s 50th year as stated in the Souvenir Book pp. 328-329)

Faith / from p6 before I left to begin my life and mission in Rome ten years ago, His Eminence without any previous notice came knocking at my office in Pius XII Catholic Center. He said he came to visit me because he might not be able to see me off when I leave. I was so aghast that he had to climb 3 flights of stairs—my office was on the third floor of the building. And I knew that he recently had an andioplasty. I told him, “Naku Eminence, ang taas-taas ng inakyat niyo, nagpasabi na lang sana kayo at ako na ang bumaba.” He said very simply, “O, ano ba naman yon, hagdanan lamang ang inakyat ko. Eh, ikaw ang dami-damimg akyat panaog ang ginagawa mo para sa S i m b a h a n . Magpapasalamat lang ako.” That gesture of love accompanied my years in Rome, and will continue to fill my heart for the rest of my days. Reading the homilies of Cardinal Vidal during Episcopal ordinations of bishops—I think he delivered the homily for almost all the bishops ordained in the last 20 years—during their installations and anniversaries, I came upon an astonishing truth. With Cardinal Vidal, word and happening are one—just like the Lord. No

Nature of the Commission ECMR is an Episcopal Commission. It is also called Mixed Commission since it is composed and represented by two separate bodies with their own separate Statutes and ByLaws, the CBCP and the AMRSP. In the 89th CBCP PlenaryAssembly in July 2003, the Bishops approved that the Commission will be called Episcopal Commission on Mutual Relations (between bishops and religious) without changing its composition and representation. Membership There are four Bishop members of the Episcopal Commission. The ECMR Chairman is elected at large by the CBCP Plenary Assembly and has a term of two years and maybe reelected for another term.

The CBCP Constitutions and by-laws state the objectives of the ECMR as follows: • Generate communication between the CBCP and AMRSP • Foster mutual esteem and close collaboration between bishops and religious working in the Philippines to achieve unity and harmony as demanded by their apostolate • Make studies and research and discuss problems of common interest and shall formulate concrete proposals for a joint coordinated plan of action • Facilitate the implementation of provisions stated in the Mutuae Relationes and other resolutions and tasks decided upon by the CBCP that pertains to the commis-

sion • Encourage dialogue at the local and regional levels between bishops, religious and priests through the initiative of the local ordinary and/ or the religious superiors • Submit to the CBCP Permanent Council a report of its activities together with its recommendations The Visa Desk The Commission also handles the ECMR-AMRSP Visa Desk, a project of AMRSP which was set up to: • Endorse Catholic foreign missionaries, religious and lay, for their visa application with the Bureau of Immigration • Function as an accredited body of the Bureau of Immigration Thus the visa desk assists foreign Catholic missionaries in their official dealings with the bureau on matters such as applications for prearranged employment (religious) visa, grace period extensions, emigration clearance, re-entry and other permits.

Members of the Episcopal Commission on Mutual Relations Chairman: Vice Chairman: Members:

Bishop Sofronio A. Bancud Bishop Leo M. Drona, SDB

Bishop Isabelo C. Abarquez Bishop John F. Du Bishop Rolando J. Tria Tirona, OCD AMRSP Members Co-Chairpersons: Sr. Ma. Luz Mijares, OSA; Bro. Edmundo Fernandez, FSC Vice-Co-Chairman: Sr. Mary John Mananzan, OSB Members: Sr. Bernardita Zatarin, RVM Fr. Daniel Patrick Huang, SJ Bro. Joel Ponsaran, FC ECMR Executive Secretary: Sr. Ma. ConsueloA. Rosales, RVM Visa Desk In-Charge: Sr. Norma C. Roque, FMA AMRSP Co-Executive Secretaries: Sr. Estrella Castalone, FMA Bro. Briccio Baynosa, FMS

Tidbits / from p7 wonder forgiveness is not only preached by him, but he also lives it—giving eloquent witness to what Jesus manifested on the Cross—he loves us even in our sins. Forgiveness, as His Eminence lives it and gives it and asks for it, is his creative act of healing. With Jesus at the Last Supper as model, for Cardinal Vidal forgiving is loving, which makes forgiveness not just a private absolution but a way of building a new community. A new community with all the possibilities of a future with God. Cardinal Vidal can write with such profound knowledge about what a bishop is because he not only knows Christ whom he represents, but his whole ministry revolves around and is rooted on his intimate friendship with Jesus. The presentation of the book, “I, a Fellow Shepherd,” is actually a presentation of the life of THE Bishop—Ricardo J. Cardinal Vidal. A life totally given to God, a life totally at the service of the Church, a life totally proclaiming with such faithfulness: Dominus Est— It Is The Lord! Ricardo J. Cardinal Vidal—our hero, our good shepherd—has contributed much in shaping the rising and dying rhythm of our Christian life.

of images. To quote the words of the late Pope John Paul II, “Ecclesiastical dress, therefore, is a sign which makes it easier for others to approach the ministry that the priests represent. In the present society, in which the sense of the sacred has become so diminished, people have even more need of those calls to God, which cannot be disregarded without a certain impoverishment of our priestly service” (John Paul II, Letter to the Vicar of Rome, 8 September 1982, in L’Osservatore Romano, October 18-19, 1982). The clergy is an ordained minister and he must be known as such. It is true that the transformation effected by the Sacrament of Ordination is something spiritual. It configures the one called to participate in the priesthood of Christ

the Head of the Church, conferring on him the spiritual power to act in the name and, oftentimes, in the person of Christ. As such the priestly feature and power of the ordained, although ontologically real, is spiritual. It therefore goes beyond physical appearances and cannot be fully expressed by mere external signs and symbols, much less can it be truly and faithfully articulated by a mere dress or garb. The priestly character of the ordained minister can only be expressed by the authentic life of the minister, his sincerity to live up to the demands of the priesthood and his faithfulness to the mission to which he is called to. The ecclesiastical dress is not an external sign of his priesthood; it is his spiritual and priestly life. But the reasoning suffers

some flaws. The Church who legislates on the proper dress for her clergy is not purely spiritual. She is a realist, sacramental in its language as it is incarnational in its view of reality. The spirit can be expressed in something physical; God can be experienced in the burning bush; the Word can be seen and can be touched in the flesh; the child can be transformed into a son of God through the pouring of water with the Trinitarian invocation; the ordained can be known by the ecclesiastical dress he wears. Through the centuries the Church has believed in the value of physical signs and external symbols that point to something that is otherwise imperceptible to the human senses. It has continued on to its practice of pouring water to a child to show

the power of the Holy Trinity cleansing the creature from its inherited sin and transforming it into a true child of God; of taking on the species of bread and wine into the altar of sacrifice to make of them the sacramental presence of the Body and Blood of Christ for the redemption of man. The spiritual reality of the priesthood imprinted in the person of the ordained minister has to be expressed and communicated to the community to which he is called to serve. His life, his behavior, his prayer life, his decorum, his language, all of them have to communicate and articulate the reality of the priesthood he had once been configured. To be known as such, so the Church enjoins, the ordained minister has to wear the proper ecclesiastical attire.

present) in her that makes the Church Catholic, giving her the fullness of the means of salvation (Catechism of the Catholic Church, n 830). We cringe at the thought of putting ourselves above other Christians. We’re not. We’re acknowledging rather the truth of a surpassing gift given not only to us but to all mankind. This is because ‘Catholic’ also means that Jesus has entrusted to us a universal mission when he says to his apostles: “All authority has

been given me in heaven and on earth. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations. Baptize them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit” (Mt 28:18-19). ‘Catholic’ describes God’s plan to save all nations and make them sharers of his very life, the life of the one God in three Persons. Our baptism is proof of that. We are Filipino because God loves us as a nation. We are Catholic because he loves all nations. This means two things. One is that we can’t call

ourselves Christians and reject our Filipino roots. That is a rejection of God’s particular love for our people. Two, neither can we be Christian and stay clannish or parochial. That is a rejection of God’s universal love or love for all peoples of all nations. In fact, any form of racism or prejudice even against fellow Filipinos of other linguistic or cultural backgrounds can be said to be a denial of the Catholic faith. Filipino Catholic. Are you one? Better be.

Roadside / from p7 best expressions of who we were and who we can be. Are our mindsets and lifestyles in sync with theirs? To be Catholic. If being Filipino invites us to look more deeply inside us, being Catholic makes us look outside the confines of our race. It makes us get in touch with the fullness of the presence of Christ that he also extends to other peoples of other races. As the Catholic faith reminds us, it’s really because the whole Body of Christ “subsists” (exists, is

CBCP Monitor

Diocese

Vol. 10 No. 17 December 4, 2006

ONE of the enduring legacies of the late His Eminence Jaime Cardinal Sin was his recommendation to the Holy See that the Archdiocese of Manila be divided into smaller dioceses to better serve the growing population of Metro Manila. To prepare for this eventuality, new Ecclesiastical Districts were created namely: Parañaque, Cubao, Caloocan, Novaliches and Pasig. Pasig was placed under the supervision of Bishop Nestor Cariño, D.D., who was then the Secretary General of the CBCP. Under his able leadership, he challenged the clergy, the religious and lay leaders to start thinking, planning, working for the creation of a new ecclesiastical reality comprising the cities of Pasig , Taguig and the town of Pateros . Pope John Paul II created the Diocese of Pasig on June 26, 2003 and appointed Most Rev. Francisco C. San Diego D.D. as its first bishop. On August 21, 2003 in the presence of His Eminence Jaime Cardinal Sin, His Eminence Ricardo Cardinal Vidal and His Excellency, Most Rev. Antonio Franco, D.D., Apostolic Nuncio and other Bishops, Bishop San Diego was solemnly installed as the first bishop of the newly-created Diocese of Pasig. Immediately Bishop San Diego organized the chancery office and appointed the key persons to the different posts. Msgr. Rodolfo Gallardo was appointed Vicar General, while Fr. Roy Rosales was assigned as the Chancellor. Fr. Ramil Marcos was designated as Bishop’s

Private Secretary. The role of the economus was given to Fr. Orlindo Ordoña and the Judicial Vicar ’s position was entrusted to Rev. Fr. Pedro Enrique Rabonza IV. Rev. Fr. Orlando Cantillon was appointed Director of Pastoral Ministries. Rev. Paulino Balagtas was tapped as the Episcopal Vicar for guest priests. Fr. Amando Litana was designated Superintendent of Catholic Schools. The Diocesan Pastoral Council and the Council of the Laity were also organized to enhance the participation of the laity in the Diocesan Programs and Activities. As early as November 2003, Bishop San Diego created a Diocesan Pastoral Planning Commission to start the consultation process among the different sectors of the Diocese. On February 21, 2004, the First Diocesan General Assembly was held, graced by the presence of parish priests, parish Pastoral Council Officers, religious and youth Representatives who all gathered for the momentous event. The assembly agreed to give priority to four challenges: (1) The family as the focal point of evangelization, (2) The active presence and participation of the Poor in the Church, (3) Integral faith formation, and (4) Journeying with the youth. To realize these four priorities, the ministry of Family and Life, Social Service and Development Ministry, Formation Ministry, and Diocesan Youth Ministry were created. Immediately they launched a series of meetings and consultations and came up with their respective plan of actions. Family and Life opened a

Important Facts Name:

Area: Pasig Pateros Taguig

525,100 69,100 622,910 1,040,400 3,100 hectares 184 hectares 4,538 hectares

Clergy & Religious: Bishop Priests Sisters Deacon Guest Priests

1 31 42 1 25

Seminarians: In Theology In Philosophy Diocesan Divisions: Vicariates Parishes Chaplaincy Personal Parish

5 5 4 27 1 1

Educational Centers: College 1 High Schools 11 Elementary Schools 11 Kindergarten 11 Website: http://www.pasigdiocese.com

Cause of / from p3 “After all the witnesses have been interviewed worldwide, that’s the time it would be forwarded to Rome for the proper “decision”. If Rome approves that he lived a heroic life, then he would be declared Venerable. Then it would need a miracle for his beatification and another miracle for his canonization,” Mabanta says. So far, testimonies by people who claimed to have been cured by praying to Fr. Peyton are currently being investigated for authenticity. “The one being investigated right now is the one from Africa. It’s a double AIDS miracle, mother and child sick of AIDS, and then they were cured,” says Mabanta. Several cases of healing here in the Philippines have also been attributed through the intercession of the Servant of God. “All of them are health-related because that is what is normally accepted,” explains Mabanta. “But I cannot talk about them, because they are still under investigation.” Mabanta says her office is conducting preliminary talks with the doctors to determine the validity of the case. Doctors have to attest in writing that medical intervention is not possible to cure the sick person, before healing can be con-

by Fr. Orlando Cantillon “Domus Familiae Center” and campaigned for the establishment of Parish Family and Life Ministry and worked hand to oppose HB #3773 by bringing the issues to all the parishes. SSDM-Pasig, in coordination with Caritas Manila, launched livelihood programs, job fairs, Hapag-asa Feeding Program, medical and dental clinics and conscientization programs. The Diocesan Youth Ministry organized youth camps, vicariate assemblies, parish youth encounter, and sport fests. The Ministry of Formation organized the liturgical celebrations, the Eucharistic and Marian Congresses and likewise strengthened the catechetical instructions in all the public schools. From April 29 to May 1, 2004, the Pastoral Planning Commission together with Bishop San Diego, the four Vicars Forane, two religious and several lay leaders sat down to formulate the Diocesan Vision, Mission and Goals for the next three years.

diocese was formulated following the challenges and decrees of the Second Plenary Council of the Philippines or PCP II: “To realize our Vision under the guidance of the Spirit of God, through the intercession of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception, we shall embark on a renewed evangelization by integral faith formation, making the family as a focal point of evangelization, journeying with the youth, seeking the active participation of the poor, and building and strengthening of the participatory church through Basic Ecclesial Communities.” Faithfully conforming to its pastoral vision and mission, the diocese

then aptly identified its pastoral core Values etched fittingly according to its name, P A S I G, to signify, namely: P = Prayer, A = Availability, S = Simplicity, I = Integrity, G = Generosity And finally for its diocesan motto, the three-year old diocese has adopted the priestly prayer of Jesus, “Ut Unum Sint” (That they may be one). Indeed, a young and fledgling diocese it is, the Diocese of Pasig yet undauntedly treks along its pastoral journey of always being one— one flock under one Shepherd, a church of communion despite or amid differences, a church of unity based on the Mystery of the Holy Trinity.

of Manila, was the main celebrant of the mass concelebrated by vocation and youth directors from the different dioceses in the Metro Manila area. The festival ended at 6:00 a.m. with a burst of songs and applause from all those gathered. The overnight gathering was truly an experience of joyous celebration of prayer, recollection, sharing, songs and dances.

The next Regional Vocation Festival will be hosted by the Diocese of Cubao. It is hoped that more young people will be able to encounter God and His calling for them in the next youth gathering that will be held in the last quarter of 2008.

Pastoral Vision-Mission and Direction

Dioecesis Pasiginae (Suffragan of Manila)

Population: Pasig Pateros Taguig Catholics

“Ut Unum Sint”

The diocesan Pastoral Planning Commission appropriately resolved then that the diocese’s pastoral vision statement be substantially short for easy comprehension by the faithful. The diocese’s pastoral vision is stated thus: “We the people of God in the Diocese of Pasig, with the total trust in God’s love, envision ourselves as a community of disciples of Jesus Christ proclaiming the Gospel of Life and Love.” Carved from this pastoral vision, the mission statement of the

NCR Holds / from p3 sidered miraculous. As a young priest, Fr. Peyton spread the devotion to the Blessed Mother and the Rosary not only in the United States but in many countries of the world. He used mass media to spread the devotion and boldly rallied Hollywood stars to support his cause. His campaign slogans “The family that prays together, stays together; A world at prayer is a world at peace,” caught like bushfires and inspired mammoth rallies in big cities throughout the world. Miraculously healed of tuberculosis (an incurable illness during his time), Fr. Peyton attributed the miraculous healing through the intercession of the Blessed Mother. He vowed to spend his whole life propagating the devotion to Mary and the recitation of the rosary. Fr. Peyton had been in the Philippines several times during his lifetime to promote the Family Rosary Crusade. He first came in 1965 and been coming back and forth several times. He stayed for three years in the country during the 70’s. The Family Rosary Crusade ministries are found in seventeen countries worldwide. In the Philippines, the Family Rosary Crusade is shown at least 40 hours a week in four channels on national television.

concerns were put into focus through songs and dances. The second part tackled Pope Benedict XVI’s encyclical on God who is Love. Two young charismatic speakers, George Gabriel and Bobby Quitain spoke on the topic that set the mood of the participants to continue believing in the love of God in the midst of the seemingly difficult situations and harsh realities people are faced with. A group sharing and Holy Hour (led by Bishop Deogracias Iniguez of Kalookan) were also held. His Eminence, Cardinal Gaudencio Rosales of Manila also graced the vigil and challenged to the young people to make concrete steps in being true to God’s calling for them. He further asked them to be protagonists in today’s society through real service and love for others. The last part of the program was a celebration of vocations. Seminarians and religious women took turns in sharing their lives through various production numbers. It set forth an invitation to the participants to respond to the particular call of God in the midst of a highly individualistic and materialistic world. The event culminated with the celebration of the Holy Mass at 5:00 in the morning. The Most Rev. Broderick Pabillo, Auxiliary Bishop

www.cbcpworld.com | training@cbcpworld.net | +632 4041612, 4042182

Historical Background

(Rev. Fr. Joel Francis V ictorino is the Coordinator of the Directors of Vocations in the Philippines-National Capital Region)

The CBCPWorld Network A network of Dioceses, Parishes, Catholic Schools and religious groups. Today, over a hundred of them nationwide. Pursuing one mission, linked under one nationwide satellite system. Connected together with the same passion for the Gospel. Our Broadband Connectivity is delivered to our network members through a VSAT system on a C-band or through a wireless IP system on a microwave platform, originating from our network operations center in Clark Special Economic Zone in Angeles City. Our Content Department aims at saturating the cyberspace with wholesome contents that are faith-related, educational and social-advocacy oriented. Its services are: web designing, web maintenance, web hosting, content sourcing and editing, and video production. Our Traning Department conducts the following trainings: EdTech, IT Awareness, WebArt, SysAd Training.

Feature

10 It is possible that no area of disagreement between Catholics and Protestants today is as hostile and emotional as that concerning Mary, the mother of Jesus. A typical Protestant opinion is that of the influential Reformed theologian, Karl Barth, who declared: “In the doctrine and worship of Mary there is disclosed the one heresy of the Roman Catholic Church which explains all the rest.” What are some of the most common Protestant objections to Marian doctrine and devotion? One could cite three: (1) Mary is perceived to surpass and overshadow Christ; (2) Mary is seen to be in competition with Christ; (3) Mary is thought to be worshipped or treated as someone divine. The upshot of all this is that Mary seems to be loved, remembered, prayed and related to more than Christ. Her statues and images proliferate and are handled in such a way as to evoke suspicions of superstition and idolatry. To the casual observer, Mary, invoked under her title of “Mother of Perpetual Help” or “Queen of Heaven,” appears to be far more popular and powerful than Jesus himself. Yet now more than ever the Catholic Church is strongly urging Christians to find ways to become more united. Faced with growing secularism and hostility towards the Christian faith, all followers of Jesus Christ must close ranks and join forces. In 1995, Pope John Paul II matter-of-factly wrote: “At the Second Vatican Council, the Catholic Church committed herself irrevocably to following the path of the ecumenical venture.” In that same encyclical, Ut Unum Sint , John Paul listed five areas which require fuller theological study “before a true consensus of faith can be achieved.” One of these is “the Virgin Mary, as Mother of God and Icon of the Church, the spiritual Mother who intercedes for Christ’s disciples and for all humanity.” Some Ecumenical Principles with Regards to Marian Doctrine and Devotion The following are some

CBCP Monitor

recommendations by which, it is hoped, Catholics and Protestants might begin to appreciate together the great beauty and worth of the blessed mother of our Lord.

December 4, 2006

in appreciating her as the disciple par excellence whose “fiat” (let it be done) not only changed the course of human history but who is also a perennial model of complete surrender to God. Our Catholic understanding of Mary as “intercessor” must be seen in the light of her “Do whatever He tells you” (John 2:5).

1. “Jesus is Lord” ( 1 Corinthians 12:3) Christians can be united to the extent that Christ’s lordship is proclaimed and lived out in their lives. When Christ becomes more and more the center of their theology and spirituality (not just in theory but in actual practice), the more he becomes the point at which the various Christian communions can meet in fraternal love and solidarity. One Lutheran friend of mine remarked that he would have no problem if, when speaking of Mary, one began with Jesus, continued on with Mary, but ended again with Jesus. Cardinal Newman, the great English theologian, wrote that one could not love Mary too much if one loved Jesus a great deal more.

4. “All things are lawful, but not all things are helpful. All things are lawful, but not all things build up” (1 Corinthians 10:23)

2. “I am the handmaid of the Lord” (Luke 1:38) It must be remembered that Mary, for all her excellences, is a human being and a creature of God. It is significant that Mary’s response in Luke 1:38 identifies herself not simply as a human creature but as a female slave (doulç, feminine of doulos). There is something appropriate that he who “emptied himself, taking the form of a servant” (Phil 2:7) should be born of a handmaid. Remembering that their Protestant brethren are extremely allergic to any suggestion that Mary might be “divine,” Catholics must keep her complete humanity in mind. Like her Son, she is fully human; unlike her Son, she is only human. Louis de Montfort, often seen as a Marian devotee of the first degree, wrote (in True Devotion to Mary): “I avow, with all the Church, that Mary, being a mere creature that has come from the hands of the most High, is in comparison with his infinite majesty less than an atom; or rather, she is nothing at all, because only he is He Who Is…. Jesus Christ, our Sav-

Vol. 10 No. 17

Mary Is For All Christians By Dr. Jake C. Yap ior, true God and true Man, ought to be the last end of all our devotions, else they are false and delusive.” 3. “What does the scripture say?” (Romans 4:3; Galatians 4:30) Pope Paul VI (in Marialis Cultus) reminded us: “Today it is recognized as a general need of Christian piety that every form of worship should have a biblical

imprint.” The more the Bible becomes the basis and guide of Christian doctrine and devotion, the more it serves as the common language which unites us with our Protestant brothers and sisters. All Christians stand to gain from a fresh look at the scriptural portrait of Mary. One Protestant writer observed: “What she lacks in quantity of appearance in Scripture, she makes up for in quality.” All Christians can be united

The Second Vatican Council has decreed that Catholics must “carefully refrain from whatever might, by word or deed, lead the separated brethren or any others whatsoever into error about the true doctrine of the Church” regarding Mary. Marian doctrines and devotions must somehow be judged upon the bar of ecumenical sensitivity. Is this devotional practice helpful, or potentially scandalous, to our separated brethren? How can we understand and explain this Marian belief in a more ecumenically acceptable manner? The story is told of a parish priest in a predominantly Protestant village in France who wanted to dedicate its new parish church to Mary. His reason was that Catholics should not hide their beliefs but rather give witness to them. His parish committee, on the other hand, wished to dedicate the church to Christ the Redeemer or Christ the King. The Vatican, when asked for advice, sided with the parishioners (adding, diplomatically, that perhaps one of the principal side altars in the church might be dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary). This is ecumenical sensitivity at work. Popular Marian hymns sung in the Philippines often say nothing about Christ. One song has the words: Inang sinasamba, ang Diyos sa ‘yo nagpala (Mother who is worshiped, God has blessed you). This can be very misleading, both to Catholics and Protestants. Compare this with the song by Fr. Carlo Magno Marcelo, “Mary, Mother of All.” Be-

The Bible / from p5 between man, creation and God. • Christ came to restore harmony through his passion death and resurrection to reconcile man, creation and God—a “new creation” results from this saving event (2 Cor 5:17 “And for anyone who is in Christ, there is a new creation; the old creation has gone, and now the new one is here.”) C. The End-Time, the Return of Christ, “New Heavens, New Earth”. Definitive salvation is not only the salvation of souls but also the beginning of a “new creation,” “new heavens and a new earth.” See Is. 65:17 – “For now I create new heavens and a new earth”. It will be a time of peace, of harmony: “The wolf and the young lamb will feed together, the lion eat straw like the ox” v. 25). See also Rev. 21:1: “Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth.”—this is a symbol of a new relationship of harmony, peace, justice, between man, creation, and God. “God will make his home among the people; they shall be his people, and he will be their God; his name is God-with-them. He will wipe away all tears from their eyes; there will be no more

death, and no more mourning or sadness. The world of the past has gone” (vv. 3-4). Conclusion Thus the Bible teaches fundamental principles about the environment and creation: (1) All creation and the natural environment come from God the Creator; they manifest God’s power, wisdom, and love. In themselves, they declare and praise the glory of God and his love. (2) They are God’s gifts to us. They are humanity’s collective good. As God’s gifts they are to be respected. (3) But sin has destroyed our relationship to creation and to God. This relationship had to be restored. (4) Christ, therefore, came. Through the sacrifice of his life offered to God, i.e., through his suffering, death and resurrection, he has restored this relationship of harmony and peace. (5) Christ has made us again a “new creation.” (6) Between now and the end-time, we cooperate with God by doing our own share toward restoring, preserving and fostering the harmonious relationship that was there at the beginning. We do so by means of responsible stewardship of

creation and our natural environment, developing them, cultivating them, using them for our material and spiritual benefit. (7) God gave us dominion over them but only as responsible stewards. We depend on them. In a true sense, if we destroy creation and the environment, then we destroy our life-support system and ourselves. Here the issues of environment emerge, e.g., illegal logging, irresponsible mining and fishing, waste management, pollution, ozone layer, GMO products, and biotechnological and bioethical issues, etc. (8) Therefore, in so far as we exploit the environment and life-support systems and destroy them, we no longer act as responsible stewards of God and will not be part of the new heavens and new earth. In so far as we respect them and use them responsibly for our integral benefit, we work towards harmony and justice, toward the new heavens and the new earth, that God has promised to the righteous, the just. What remains till the end of time is our collective responsibility: “In the Name of the Almighty, God the Creator, God of Harmony, Care for the Earth!”

sides focusing on Mary’s virtues of faith and motherly love, the song points beyond Mary to God himself in the refrain: Be our yes to God as we offer our all / To the Father Creator / To the Son the Redeemer / To the Spirit Consoler. 5. “Above all these put on love” (Colossians 3:14) John Wesley, the founder of the Methodist church, wrote a striking sentence in his Letter to a Roman Catholic: “If we cannot as yet think alike in all things, at least we may love alike.” This call for mutual respect and fraternal charity even in the face of disagreement is not new. Scripture instructs us to “above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony” (Col 3:14), and a common saying in the early Church was “In necessariis unitas, in dubiis libertas, in omnibus caritas” (unity in necessary things, liberty in doubtful things, and love in everything). Christians dialoguing with one another about Mary should strive to focus more on what unites them, rather than on what divides them. Beginning with this position of unity and consensus about Mary, they can then discuss the differences that remain. When we speak about Mary across denominational lines, let us be “quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger” (James 1:19). Let us “seek first to understand, rather than to be understood.” I have written this article with the strong conviction that Mary is for all Christians. Catholics are united with Orthodox believers in our high regard and devotion to Mary, but we remain separated from our Protestant brothers and sisters. I feel that both sides must exert a greater effort to understand one another concerning this very important area of our faith, and to appreciate together this very important person who is Jesus’ mother and our mother. As a conclusion, it is perhaps fitting to quote Pope Benedict XVI who, in first encyclical letter On Christian Love, ends his reflections by invoking Mary, in a manner that is ecumenically sensitive, theologically sound, and devotionally sincere: Holy Mary, Mother of God, you have given the world its true light, Jesus, your Son – the Son of God. You abandoned yourself completely to God’s call and thus became a wellspring of the goodness which flows forth from him. Show us Jesus. Lead us to him. Teach us to know and love him, so that we too can become capable of true love and be fountains of living water in the midst of a thirsting world. (Dr. Jake Yap is a member of the lay institute Servant of the Word. He teaches Theology, Scriptures and Mariology at Loyola School of Theology)

CBCP Monitor Vol. 10 No. 17 December 4, 2006

SILINGAN KA! means in English, “You are my neighbor!” In Bisaya, the acronym stands for Sibugaynon Lihok Ngadto sa Nagpakabanang Katawhan, or “Sibugaynons Movement for a Concerned Citizenry.” Primarily, this movement is for the citizens of Zamboanga Sibugay to collectively and conscientiously vote for political candidates based on their qualifications and accomplishments. Through this strategy, the people would not be powerless in exercising their right to vote. The SK! movement grew out of the reflections of several lay workers in the Prelature of Ipil who were ill at ease with the strictly neutral stance of being NAMFREL volunteers in earlier elections. They recognized their responsibility as Catholic laity to make partisan—or transpartisan—choices of candidates in electoral contests. Organizing Activities In February 2004, a 15-member convenor group was organized representing various sectors and religious communities in the province. This group was tasked to formulate the movement’s policies and primer for choosing the candidates to be supported for the elections in May 2004. Initially, through political education activities, the movement was able to organize seven municipalities among the 16 municipalities of the province. These were the municipalities of Ipil, Naga, Siay, Payao, Malangas, Diplahan, and titay with 143 registered members. There were individuals who chose not to register for personal and security reasons but committed to support the movement. Before the selection process of the candidates, their profiles and platforms were disseminated to the parishes and BEC members. Several criteria were formulated. Based on these, candidates could be selected with an 80% consensus of the movement’s members. Subsequently, those who were chosen were called for a dialogue. On April 19, 2004, a provincial level dialogue was held. This was followed up by dialogues at the municipal level. The dialogues aimed to establish an agreement between the candidates and the movement—that there should be no vote-buying, and that the movement would not merely support them before the election, but would also be vigilant with regard to their governance, should they win. In preparation for the organizing of the SILINGAN KA! movement, good governance and electoral reform principles were discussed in different parishes, ministries, schools and sectoral groups with a total of 1,137 participants. The Good Governance program of the Social Action Ministry gave inputs even to high school students so that they would somehow be optimistic about the political and electoral system of the country. These inputs were also broadcast over the weekly radio program. As the election month was approaching, a number of political criticisms against the movement were aired which the desk’s commentators properly answered. The organizing effort did not come easy. The movement had started organizing for the elections during the first month of 2004 while the politicians had started a year or two earlier. Nonetheless, the movement was able to pressure the politicians to the point that many became cautious of their actions. Of the movement’s chosen candidates 57% won at the national level, 82% at the provincial level and 86% at the municipal level (in 5 municipalities only). SK! – Payao Experience The birth of SILINGAN KA! in Payao municipality was the result of

Social Concern a series of seminars on political education, values formation and electoral reform conducted among BEC members. At the start, there were only ten registered members. In choosing the best candidates, SILINGAN KA! came up with a set of criteria based on conscience, confidence and commitment. SK! decided to choose and support candidates based on a consensus building of 80% of the members’ collective decision and approval. It was not necessary for SK! to fill out all positions in the locality. SK! would only choose candidates whom they considered qualified for the position. The group’s decision was not mandatory for all members; instead it still respected the right of every individual to vote according to his/her conscience. Before the election time, SILINGAN KA! conducted a dialogue-forum between SK! members and the chosen candidates. Presentations of their platform of governance were presented by the candidates while the concerns of the people were also discussed. After elections, SK!—Payao had several winning candidates (Mayor, Vice Mayor and three councilors). For the second time a dialogue-forum was held to discuss issues and concerns and to establish a support system for the elected officials and to monitor the activities of the local government. Recently, SK! has included all sectors in the community to have a more representative and meaningful dialogue between the local officials and the community itself. At its 4th dialogue-forum held last September 5, 2005, several pressing issues were brought up and discussed—like illegal fishing, infrastructure projects, corruption allegations from the provincial down to the barangay level, smuggling and kidnapping. It was also pointed that the Barangay assembly was not being called in every barangay in Payao.

BEC Participation in Good Governance:

The Zamboanga Sibugay Experience By the Social Action Ministry, Prelature of Ipil Learning • Due to the late preparation of the movement, political education on electoral reforms did not adequately reach all the BECs. For such a movement, preparations must be done one or two years before the elections, as politicians are doing. • The vote-buying and vote-selling dilemma is not just a matter of politics but is also tied to poverty and, just as important, to spiritual principles and values. Detractors of

ARE the people themselves responsible for this sad situation? Certainly, at least in part, because people have become fatalistic and cynical regarding politics and have often consented to its evil features. They say that is the nature of politics and cannot be changed. People have become so accustomed to seeing the above evils in the world of politics that many seem to have surrendered to this reality. In fact many become participants by asking donations from candidates, by willingly selling their votes, by expecting to be entertained during the campaign period, by being agents in buying votes and tampering with election results, etc. This is why by participating in or tolerating the evils of the electoral process, we reap the corresponding evil of having bad people to govern us. Is it alright to accept money as long as one votes according to one’s conscience? No, it is not alright. If the source of the money is clean, accepting it without voting for the candidate who gave it makes you a liar. And if you vote for the candidate, you have actually sold your vote. If the source of the money is not clean, then you become a cooperator in evil because you accept it. By accepting any money from candidates, no matter from what source and with what intention, you are perpetuating a form of dirty politics which encourages graft and corruption, for today’s vote buyers are tomorrow’s grafters. Are there no signs of hope that politics can change for the better? There are many signs of change. We had the brightest example of how people acted as one to protest against the widespread fraud in the 1986 Snap Election. We saw the courage of men and women walking out of their jobs as computer personnel so that they would not be

SK!, in one way or another, are indications that some politicians are being threatened by a potent force of collective decision-making. • People aspiring for government positions are now aware that there are existing groups of individuals who will endorse candidates for government office with good political platforms. • Awareness of public officials that they are being watched and monitored by the group has become noticeable.

• Through dialogues, SK! members can easily bring to concerned parties the existing situation of people from the different sectors. This is also partly due to the willingness of the LGU to listen to the church. • This initiative fosters a good relationship between the local government and the church. • Support from church leaders is a crucial factor. The endorsement of an inter-faith coalition of religious leaders also strengthens the movement and promotes a culture of peace.

CATECHISM ON THE CHURCH AND POLITICS (Editor’s Note: The CBCP’s declaration of 2006 as Year of Social Concerns has veritably brought to fore once again the burning question of the Church’s engagement in politics as being part of the Church’s social concern agenda. CBCP Monitor is serializing the following document issued by the CBCP in 1998 with such end of providing a catechetical perspective to the continuing discourse.)

(Last of a series) accomplices in the manipulation of election results. We saw many lay volunteers, priests, and religious men and women who guarded the polls at the risk of their lives in the 1984 and 1986 elections. And, of course, there was the 1986 People Power revolution at EDSA that successfully expelled a dictatorship and restored democratic freedoms. Since then, non-government organizations and peoples’ organizations have sprouted in great numbers to express the peoples’ desire for participation and solidarity in the socio-economic and political fields. What qualifications should we look for in political candidates? In many previous statements, the Bishops have insisted on certain qualifications that candidates must have. Among these are the following: Those seeking public office must be pro-God (maka-Diyos) rather than materialistic and secularistic; pro-people (maka-tao) rather than proself; pro-nation (maka-bayan); pro-common good rather than pro-special groups; and pro-environment (maka-kalikasan) rather than ecologically insensitive. Other qualifications are those that have been enumerated by PCP-II, namely: they must be persons who truly pursue the common good, defend and promote justice, have a spirit of service, love of preference for the poor, and are eager to empower people (see PCP-II, 351). All these have to be verified from their past histories and records. In their pastoral exhortation on the 1998 elections, the bishops underlined the following qualifications: competence and integrity. They said that

competence is the ability to do the expected work well and not necessarily to be able to speak well nor to be popular. They said that integrity means respect for the human rights of others, honesty in public office and fidelity to marital commitment (to wife or husband), and to family commitments (the loving care of the family). This means that a good moral character is fundamentally necessary in aspiring for public office. To be trusted in politics and entrusted by people with the common good, one has to be trustworthy in the moral and religious fields. These are intimately and inseparably intertwined. Since politics is seen as “dirty”, should not Catholic leaders stay away from politics? No, on the contrary they should involve themselves directly in partisan politics so that they can renew it and make it work for the common good. PCP-II itself has encouraged such participation (see PCP-II, 348-50). It urged the following: “Catholics in politics have to work in favor of legislation that is imbued with these [Christian] principles. Knowing that the wrong behavior and values are often rewarded or left unpunished, Catholic politicians have to put teeth to good legislation by making certain that the correct system of rewards and punishment be strictly enforced in public life” (PCP-II, 352). Examples of criminal actions often remaining unpunished are those that are committed by powerful people, including politicians themCatechism / P12

CBCP Monitor

Message

Vol. 10 No. 17 December 4, 2006

The Roman Catholic Archbishop of Tuguegarao

Decree on the opening of the Year of Jubilees of Most Rev. Diosdado A. Talamayan, D.D.

Pastoral Statement on the Celebration of National Family Week

“Family be Strong with the Strength of God!” - John Paul II, Letter to Families Beloved People of God: AS the Church joins the nation in the celebration of National Family Week, we call on all families to a deeper reflection on the identity and mission of the Filipino family as the basic cell of the Church and Society and the point of reference for the social, political, economic and religion-based ideal relationships of the Filipino people and the Philippines as a nation. The family does not owe its foundation to any organization, but directly to the will of God. It is a natural institution, antecedent to any political or juridical organization. The authentic development of the human person reveals in each of us the image of a child of God. No living being on earth except man was created “in the image and likeness of God” (Gen 1:26). Human fatherhood and motherhood, though biologically similar to that of other living beings in nature, contain in an essential and unique way a “likeness” to God which is the basis of the family as a community of persons united in love. (Letter to Families, John Paul II, February 22, 1994, n. 6). The marriage covenant established between a man and a woman is a symbol of God’s love for His people and Christ for His Church (Eph 5:25-26). Because the transmission of divine life presumes the transmission of human life, marriage not only brings about the birth of human children, but also, through the power of Baptism, the birth of adopted children of God, who live the life received from Christ through his Spirit. (Letter to Families, n.18) The family is the true origin of human and Christian development, and the renewal of society. To the family is entrusted the task of unleashing the forces of good, the source of which is found in Christ alone. Every family needs to make these forces their own so that Philippine culture may be “evangelized in depth, true values acknowledged, the rights of men and women defended, and justice promoted in the very structures of society”. (Apostolic Exhortation, Familiaris Consortio, The Role of the Christian Family in the Modern World, November 22, 1981, n. 8). To use a phrase spoken on the occasion of the Millennium of Christianity in Poland, the family must be “strong with the strength of God”. (Cardinal STEFAN WYSZYNSKI, Rodzina Bogiem silna, Homily delivered at Jasna Gora, August 26, 1961).

It is in the family where living stones are formed for that spiritual house spoken of by the Apostle Peter (1 Pet 2:5). The bodies of the husband and wife are the dwelling-place of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 6:19). The family is placed at the centre of the great struggle between good and evil, between life and death, between love and all that is opposed to love. Christian parents must build a moral universe rooted in the will of God, where the child grows in the human and Christian values that give life its full meaning. And so the Second Vatican Council teaches that “Christian married couples and parents, following their own way, should support one another in grace all through life with faithful love, and should train their children, lovingly received from God, in Christian doctrine and evangelical virtues. (Second Vatican Ecumenical Council, Dogmatic Constitution on the Church, Lumen Gentium, n.41). The family however, as an institution is the object of numerous forces that seek to destroy it or in some way to deform it (FC, n.3) and is experiencing a radical and widespread crisis (Novo Millennio Ineunte, January 6, 2001, no. 47). To protect the family “every governing authority, whether national, regional or local, owes it to itself to have a family policy which enables families freely to assume their responsibilities in contemporary society” (Ethical and Pastoral Dimensions of Population Control, May 13, 1994, n. 82). Family policy would include programs for livelihood assistance, providing access to housing and education and other programs to assist the family. Family policy should protect and preserve a nation’s sovereignty in the struggle against “contraceptive imperialism” which the delegation of the Holy See denounced in 1974 during the International Conference on Population held in Bucharest. This “contraceptive imperialism,” violates religious and cultural traditions of family life and harms families and nations. (Ethical and Pastoral Dimensions of Population Control, May 13, 1994, n. 82). Furthermore in their implementation, population control programs utilize government money, laws, incentives and force to pressure people to have fewer children using population growth as a reason to coerce changes in people’s intimate beliefs and childbearing practices. Based on moral principles the

Church strongly opposes the “Reproductive Rights/Sexual Rights” Agenda (inclusive of abortion) in Congress and its integration in school textbooks. St. Augustine says that “laws which threaten the family and the sacred gift of life create the most serious distortions in the social fabric that weakened societies.” (De Civ. Dei 4.:4) The Filipino family is blessed in that so far it has preserved its religious practices that allow the light of faith to continue to shine on family life. But the faith of young people is endangered by the massive spread of sexual rights / reproductive rights propaganda in the legislature, by local government and in particular, in school textbooks. The Church is firmly opposed to an often widespread form of imparting sex information dissociated from moral principles. (FC, 37). The Pontifical Council on the Family, under the guidance of the late Pope John Paul II, has provided a practical guide for parents and educators entitled “The Truth and Meaning of Human Sexuality” which summarizes and defines the obligations of Catholics and Catholic parents. Families should be the first to take steps to see that the laws and institutions of the State not only do not offend but support and positively defend the rights and duties of the family (FC, 44). There are four bills that pose serious threats to our families due to their emphasis on population control disguised as “reproductive health”. These bills are: House Bill 3773, where the government would make the two-child family the ideal size and thereby discriminate against larger families; House Bill 5285, where the aspects of so-called “reproductive health,” or birth control, are added to the civil and political rights of women; House Bill 634, where samesex unions could be allowed; and House Bill 5012, where companies would be required to provide free annual seminars on “reproductive health” to indoctrinate our people. We need to act with vigilance against these Bills and support those proposals pending in Congress that are pro-family and pro-life which promote the authentic good of the family. Among them are: House Bill 5028 of Congressman Hermilando Mandanas, which will grant our public and private health workers their conscience rights, so that they can protest against any birth control program imposed on them; House Bill 4643 of Congressman Rene Velarde,

I, DIOSDADO TALAMAYAN, in the grace of God and of the Holy See, Archbishop of Tuguegarao, have the great honor and joy to formally declare October 19, 2006 to October 19, 2007 as Year of Jubilees. Let the faithful of the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao rejoice and give thanks to the Lord Almighty for the following jubilees that I, His unworthy servant, celebrate: a. the golden Anniversary of my which will make illegal the use of abortifacient drugs and devices; House Bill 1245 of Congressman Rozzano Rufino Biazon, limiting marriage to natural-born men and women; House Bill 216 of Congressman Rozzano Rufino Biazon, offering free marriage counseling for engaged couples; and House Bill 5327 of Congressman Eduardo Zialcita, offering pregnancy care centers supported by the government. The family is fundamental to what Pope Paul VI called the “civilization of love” (Letter to Families, n.13). In discovering the family as the “sanctuary of life” (John Paul II, Evangelium Vitae, On the Value and Inviolability of Human Life, March 25, 1995, n. 92) men and women can be freed from the “culture of death.”

Priestly Ordination on November 30, 2006; b. the 20th year of my appointment as Metropolitan Archbishop of Tuguegarao on January 31, 2006; c. the 20 th Year of my installation as Metropolitan Archbishop of Tuguegarao on April 10, 2006; d. the Ruby Jubilee of the Foundation of the Lyceum of Aparri on July 5, 2007; and e. my 75th birthday on October 19, 2007. Together with efforts aimed at establishing family policies, the inherent value of each child as a human being must be proclaimed. In the face of population trends, everyone is invited to put to good use the talents given by the Creator to realize personal development and to contribute in an original way to the development of the community. In the final analysis, God created man to make him a partner in his Divine Plan of Life and Love. Fraternally in the Lord, our Life and Truth, Most Rev. Paciano B. Aniceto, D.D. Chairman, CBCP Episcopal Commission on Family and Life September 25, 2006

Catechism / from p11 selves. In general, how should Catholics participate effectively in elections? By volunteering to work in a non-partisan way with nongovernment organizations such as NAMFREL, or Church movements such as PPC-RV and NASSA VOTE-CARE in helping raise the awareness of people regarding responsible voting, and in keeping elections honest, clean, peaceful, and orderly. By working for and joining a political party in order to get elected into public office or to support truly qualified candidates and to help ensure that the political party itself abides by the values of integrity, honesty,

and issue-oriented electoral campaign. By working for the passage and implementation of electoral laws that will help make elections honest and peaceful. Above all, a Catholic voter must vote wisely and honestly, in accordance with a properly formed conscience and not because of monetary considerations, family connections or utang na loob. For the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines: +OSCAR V. CRUZ, D.D. Archbishop of LingayenDagupan President, CBCP February 1998

Living the / from p14 open to his eyes, to whom our speech is.” (4,12-13). I know there are some people who get upset when talks like this are made. They say that faith and religion are at best purely private, personal affairs that have no place in public, because these can’t be “scientifically” accounted for and verified. The idea of God revealing himself to us in a dynamic way can taste like poison to them. They consider it a gratuitous and extravagant claim, completely baseless and bereft of any convincing reasons. That’s the problem we have. The deepest yearning we have in our hearts is made to stay down deep there, not allowed to show itself externally. There are people who get an indigestion when any talk of God is made. But in spite of the supernatural character of the Christian faith, we have more than enough rea-

sons to justify why the faith can and even should be a public affair. In the case of the Bible, there are strong reasons to discuss its validity and relevance not only in our personal lives, but also in our social life. In fact, it always has something to say in every aspect of our life. The need, for example, of how to read and interpret it demands that it be discussed in public. These points just cannot be left to purely personal and individualistic interpretations. There are principles, derived from faith, that need to be followed. Being both a human and divine document, it requires also both human and supernatural means to savor its juice, so to speak, and to make it alive. To know the precise literal meaning of its text, to discern its spiritual sense, to learn how to relate it to our present circumstances, etc.

CBCP Monitor Vol. 10 No. 17 December 4, 2006

Statements

On Charter Change and the Common Good (A Pastoral Exhortation)

Your Eminences, Venerable Brothers in the Episcopate and in the Priesthood, Dear Brothers and Sisters, YOUR visit gives me great pleasure and I greet you all with affection. In the first place, I greet Cardinal Jozef Tomko, whom I thank for expressing your common sentiments and for telling me about your Plenary Assembly, which has been taking place in the past few days. I cordially greet the Members of the Pontifical Committee for International Eucharistic Congresses and the National Delegates who have taken part in this Meeting in order to prepare together for the upcoming 49th International Eucharistic Congress. It is scheduled to take place in Quebec in June 2008. I next greet the representatives of the Local Preparatory Committee of this great ecclesial event, as well as the small but significant group of Adorers of the Eucharist. You come from various parts of the world and the purpose of your Meeting is to prepare for this International Eucharistic Congress: a celebration of special importance to the whole of the Church. As Cardinal Jozef Tomko has just recalled, it constitutes a unanimous response of the People of God to the Lord's love, supremely manifested in the Mystery of the Eucharist. It is true! The Eucharistic Congresses that take place from time to time in different places and on different continents are always a source of spiritual renewal, an opportunity to become better acquainted with the Blessed Eucharist, which is the most

much for something that is good for the greatest number. A Constitutional Convention will be a better political exercise than convening congressmen as a Constituent Assembly which is something that can easily become self-serving. The government has spent enormously to cheating and graft and corruption. We maybe spending or losing much more than that through government overspending and cheating and graft and corruption, which are very difficult to assess and account. If it is worth several billion pesos, it is worth spending in an honest way. A Constitutional Convention will be a better political exercise than the present powers-that-be, our Congress, making themselves a Constituent Assembly that can easily become self-serving. It is said that the presidential form of government is a source of corruption among other things. We should ask a different question: Is it the presidential form that is the source of corruption, or the people in authority who corrupt and abuse the system? Any form of government will have its positive and negative characteristics; but the people who run the government are very crucial; they can either corrupt it or make it serve the common good. Any system or form of government in the hands of honest, just and incorruptible people will be a source of good for the governed. Will the parliamentary- unicameral form of government not be corrupted by the people who will create it? It is in this light that we have made our position clear on Charter Change from the moral standpoint, and we reiterate it: “Changing the Constitution, involving major shifts in the form of government, requires widespread

participation, total transparency and relative serenity that allows for rational discussion and debate. This is best done through a Constitutional Convention. ” (CBCP, January 2006) Heeding the exhortation of Pope Benedict XVI in Deus Caritas Est that the Church “is called to contribute to the purification of reason” (# 29), we would like to ask these and similar questions to guide the discussion, discernment and debate on the charter change. Are you convinced that the Charter Change as presently presented by our governing politicians is really for the common good? Are you convinced that the “people’s initiative” is genuinely the people’s activity, and has its real source in the people? Do you want our legislators to convert themselves into a Constituent Assembly where they alone will rewrite our Constitution, and have it only approved by us in a plebiscite? Is it enough to say YES to Charter Change? We are in a democracy. Should not then the citizenry be made to participate by electing their delegates to a Constitutional Convention? These are the questions we would like our people in our dioceses and parishes to participate in answering regarding so serious a matter as Charter Change.

24th ECIP CONVENTION STATEMENT …”now the dwelling of God is with humankind, and he will with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” (Revelations 21: 2-4) We, indigenous peoples and workers of Indigenous Peoples Apostolates (IPA) who participated in the 24th ECIP-IPA National Convention themed “Working Together Against the Development Aggression: A Continuing Work of Faith” and held in Tahanang Nazareth, Infanta, Quezon last Nov. 20-24, 2006 are one in declaring that: In the midst of oppression and injustice that indigenous peoples face – militarization, mining, illegal and commercial logging, uncertainty in their ancestral domain, cultural erosion, inappropriate education, and lack of basic social services especially for health – we IPs and IPA workers journey together as partners in carrying out our vision of IP communities where each one experiences the fullness of life and lives in dignity; whose goal is to push for the recognition of their rights to their ancestral domain and self-determination, based on

For the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, +ANGEL N. LAGDAMEO, D.D. Archbishop of Jaro President, CBCP September 14, 2006

justice, peace, love and unity; where indigenous values and way of life are lived and shared, guided by the Word until the reign of God’s Kingdom. To make this vision a reality, we are united in the following resolutions: We strongly suggest that the CBCP discuss the removal of company chaplains in corporations whose activities destroy our God given natural resources. We accept and fully support the organizational directions and agreements defined during this convention. Signed this 23rd day of November, 2006 in Tahanang Nazareth, Infanta, Quezon. + Bishop Sergio Utleg, DD., ECIP Chairman + Bishop Rolando Tirona, DD., bishop of Prelature of Infanta, and the 79 participants (IPs/IPAs workers) representing 37 dioceses.

Address of His Holiness Benedict XVI to the Participants in the Plenary Assembly of the Pontifical Committee for the International Eucharistic Congresses Clementine Hall / 9 November 2006

FROM the moral standpoint, we, your Bishops, continue to express our concern over the kind of democracy that we are practicing, whether this leads us to attain the common good. The Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church states: “The Church values the democratic system inasmuch as it ensures the participation of the citizens in making political choices, guarantees to the governed the possibility both of electing and holding accountable those who govern them, and of replacing them through peaceful means when appropriate.” (Centessimus Annus, #46) Charter Change, changing our Constitution, is such a serious matter for the entire country, because it will determine the future of our people. Thus we must make the widest consultation on it for adequate information, discussion and education. That is why we disagree with the so-called “people’s initiative” which appeared only as a “signature campaign” without focus on the real intention. The CBCP subscribes to the allegation that the “people’s initiative” is an initiative of the ruling power, and not genuinely of the people. From the moral standpoint, it is clothed with suspicion. And so we ask: is it really for the people and the common good? We leave to our well-informed lawyers the legal arguments. Holding a Constitutional Convention will be very expensive, as it will cost several billion pesos. But it is worth spending that

precious treasure Christ has bequeathed to us. They are also an encouragement to the Church to spread Christ's love in every social milieu and to witness to it unhesitatingly. Moreover, ever since your praiseworthy Pontifical Committee was established, its proposed goal is "to make ever better known, loved and served Our Lord Jesus Christ in his Eucharistic Mystery, the centre of the Church's life and of her mission for the world's salvation". Each one of these Eucharistic Congresses therefore represents a providential opportunity to solemnly

show to humanity: "The Eucharist, a gift of God for the life of the world", as the basic text for the upcoming Congress says. This Document was presented during your Meeting by Cardinal Marc Ouellet, Archbishop of Quebec, to whom I address a special greeting. Not only those who have the opportunity to take part in person but also the various Christian communities who are invited to join it in spirit will be able to benefit from the special graces that the Lord will dispense at the International Eucharistic Congress. In those days, the Catholic world

will keep the eyes of its heart on the supreme mystery of the Eucharist in order to draw from it a new apostolic and missionary impetus. This is why it is important to prepare oneself well and I thank you, dear brothers and sisters, for the work you are carrying out to help the faithful on every continent to understand ever better the value and importance of the Eucharist in our lives. Furthermore, the presence among you of several representatives of the Adorers of the Eucharist and the mention that you made, Cardinal Tomko, to the "Federación Mundial de la Adoración Nocturna", enables me to

recall how helpful the rediscovery of Eucharistic Adoration is for many Christians. In this regard, I am pleased to think back to my experience last year with the young people in Cologne on the occasion of World Youth Day, and in St Peter's Square with the children preparing for their First Communion accompanied by their families and catechists. How great is humanity's need today to rediscover the source of its hope in the Sacrament of the Eucharist! I thank the Lord because many parishes, as well as celebrating Holy Mass devoutly, are educating the faithful in Eucharistic Adoration, and I hope also in view of the upcoming International Eucharistic Congress that this practice will continue to spread. Dear brothers and sisters, as you well know, the next Post-Synodal Exhortation will be dedicated to the Eucharist. It will present the suggestions that were made at the last Synod of Bishops, dedicated precisely to the Eucharistic Mystery, and I am sure that this Document will also help the Church to prepare and to celebrate with interior participation the Eucharistic Congress that will be taking place in June 2008. From this moment, I entrust it to the Virgin Mary, the first and incomparable adorer of Christ in the Eucharist. May Our Lady protect and accompany each one of you and your communities and make the work you are doing fruitful, with a view to the important ecclesial event in Quebec. For my part, I assure you of my remembrance in prayer and warmly bless you all.

CBCP Monitor

Reflections

Vol. 10 No. 17 December 4, 2006

Bo Sanchez

Stop for Directions

Jeepneys by John Jay C. Magpusao, OSC ONE day I decided to have my early morning walk along the road leading to Tamawan Village straight to La Trinidad, Benguet. On our first week here in Baguio City, Fr. Rey and Fr. Bobby let us visit some spots in this Philippines’ Summer Capital. These places were among them. The time we went there, since it was already in the outskirts, I observed that only few vehicles were passing through the road leading to these areas. Thus, after having experienced walking on the roads going to Lourdes Grotto and Burnham Park, I surmised this side of the city is much healthier for my new passion. Minimal smog, that is! I was walking ahead of my companions (co-Novices) who also decided to go with me. They did a leisure walk while I did a brisk walk since my goal was to sweat out my body. They were behind me more than a hundred meters thus I wasn’t aware that most of them had stopped at Tamawan Village and then went back home. But I never mind, since it was my passion, I trailed the road to La Trinidad. When I was already winding through the place called Long Long, a jeepney passed by. Jeepneys are truly a manifestation of Filipinos’ ingenuity. These vehicles show how creative and skillful Filipinos are. They are “Only in the Philippines.” They busied the streets in the cities and serviced even in the remotest area of the archipelago. They bring people and products to offices, schools, churches, markets, and farms. Some jeepneys are big, new, shiny, well-kept, clean, and fast. There are even airconditioned ones with videoke! On the other hand, other jeepneys are small, antiquated (manufactured in nineteen kupong-kupong!), rusty (nakaka-tetano na!), messy, dirty, and slow (mabuti pang maglakad ka na lang!). In the jeepneys you can also find natural jokes on their signage. “Full the String to Staff,” “Jesus Knows Judas Not Pay,” “Kung Buntis, Libre Isa,” “7.50 Minimum

Fair.” Jeepneys as well express various Filipino characters on their mudguards. Hardworking: “ Katas ng Saudi,” devout: “Jesus the Name Above Every Other Name,” mischievous: “Eat My Dust!”, regionalistic: “Pride of Bohol,” colonial mentality: “I Love New York,” naughty: “Hubagang Ate, Uy!” However, the jeepney that passed by at Long Long carried a signage, “Live, Laugh, Love.” While walking, savoring the coldness of the morning while trying to sweat out, I brought myself into a reflective mood. Surprisingly, the jeepney effortlessly offered me a point for reflection. Live, Laugh, Love. Oh, the basics of life… In my Theology of Vocation with Fr. Evan, he said that our primordial calling is to live (10 points ‘yon sa quiz!). But it is not just to live but to live meaningfully. And life is only meaningful if it is lived for others. In other words, all of us are called to live meaningfully for others. My acceptance to the Novitiate enhances my consciousness of how beautiful it is to live. Challenges may be great, self-confrontations are many, but the lessons learned in every failure and mistake make my existence worthwhile. As a wisdom goes, “It is in being broken that we become whole.” It is during sick visitations in the hospitals that I see more my life being lived meaningfully for others. Approaching, talking, and listening to the patients may take much of my energy but surely the experiences are spiritually energizing. There may also be heartbreaking experiences in my journey towards religious life but making a good laugh out of these jeepney signage bloopers is enough for me to freshen up my sometimes weary soul and realize later on that life, after all, is still simply beautiful. Simple joys and happiness are certainly just around the corner. Thanks be to God that giving out a good laugh even to mababaw experiences is also my expertise!

God is Love. I also saw this being printed boldly on some jeepneys. What a great revelation! So much to thank for to God is this grace of feelings that I have. With this grace I am able to love and be loved. My parents, friends, relatives, and other surprise persons in my life have become God’s instruments to let me feel His great love for me. Especially now here in the Novitiate, with the silence, prayer, and very soothing environment, what more could I ask for? All that I pray now is that I may be able to deepen more my relationship with Him, to feel more His great love for me, to see his works and guidance in the simple events of my life, and in return, I may be able to also share His great love to others through my selfless service to His sick and healthy people. Indeed, jeepneys are also instruments of Filipino goodness. When I decided to halt (I had not reached La Trinidad. Malayo din s’ya ‘no?) and went back to the Novitiate, the time was already 5:50 AM. Meaning, I only had 40 minutes to make it to the house. Mass is at 6:30 AM and I should not be late! Or else, patay ako kay Master! I walked faster and ran faster but I was still a couple of kilometers away and the road was mostly going up! My chest was already painstakingly grasping for air. I passed by a sari-sari store and its wall clock said it was already 6 AM! “God, let me fly!” God never replied, “Yes, I’ll let you fly,” but, there came an empty jeepney heading for downtown. It was going slowly, eyeing for passengers. Without even a single coin in my jogging pants’ and jacket’s pockets (Novitiate is depriving me of money!), with all courage, I put on my pachyderm face and told the driver, “ Kuya, pa-hitch naman. D’yan lang po sa unahan.” Without waiting for his reply I immediately hopped in at the front seat. To my heart’s delight, we sped up (I must be flying!) and instantly reached Middle Quezon Hill. More passengers were riding in and it was my time to alight (parang LRT!). “Salamat Kuya,” I told him. I never saw his reaction nor heard him say,

“Walang anuman.” Well, it was OK. Never mind. What mattered was that he has shown goodness to me that morning and hindi n’ya ako pinahiyang singilin and I was safe. I was then only a couple of minutes away from the house. By running fast I was relieved to be in the sala at 6:10 AM! Much gratefulness filled my heart, for the goodness of the jeepney and the driver, as I attended the morning prayer and the Holy Eucharist at 6:30 AM. It was the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. (John Jay C. Magpusao, OSC, is now in Baguio City for his one whole year of Novitiate Formation in the Order of St. Camillus, a congregation of religious priests and brothers who dedicate their life in the service to the sick. He may be contacted at www.orderofsaintcamillus.org)

IN my life, I have found three places that give me a deep sense of the presence of God: 1) A scenic mountain with lovely forests; 2) A tranquil beach under a blue sky; 3) And the passenger seat of Roger’s red ‘86 Corolla. You see, my friend Roger drives like a mad man. Once he starts driving, those riding with him instinctively reach for their wallets and tearfully kiss the photos of their loved ones. Every time I ride with him, my prayer life is enhanced. Deepened. Invigorated. It feels as though Heaven becomes so near to my soul. One fateful day, I was riding with him again. We were blazing through a highway like a cruise missile. Roger looked at me and said, “Bo, I have good news and bad news for you.” “What’s the good news?” I inquired between my Hail Mary’s. “We’re efficiently moving at an average speed of 140 kph.” Involuntary spasms shot through my body. “Are you trying to tell me that we’ll be arriving at our destination in no time?” “That’s the bad news...” “What?” “We’re lost. I have no idea where we are.” “Stop this car NOW!” I screamed. We screeched to a

halt, asked around, got info, and turned back: We were efficiently and swiftly driving towards the opposite direction. At 140 kph! I realize that’s no isolated incident among human beings. We’re prone to commit the same idiocy: We get busy, do a million things, hop here and there, move fast, get efficient. But gosh, efficiently going where? What are your highest dreams, anyway? Your deepest aspirations? What do you think will give you gut-level, souldeep joy? Stop for awhile. Take a break. Retreat. Listen well. Pray desperately. Read a map of life. Know His dreams for you. When I was thirteen years old, I saw myself doing two things: preaching to a crowd of people and helping the poor. After many years, those two dreams are reality. I’m a preacher. And I built ANAWIM, a home for the abandoned elderly and a few orphans. I’ve made a decision. I’m not riding with Roger again until I’m 80. (No matter how much he assists me with my spiritual life.) Because I think I still have a few more GodDreams to fulfill.

Living the Bible Fr. Roy Cimagala THE Bible should always be by our side. If we still think we are Christian believers and really know what the Bible is, then we should realize it’s something indispensable in our life. It should not be considered just like any book. It’s not merely some religious literature, or a scholar’s material, or an object of social curiosity, etc. No, no, the Bible is much more than these. Its relevance has not expired. For Christian believers, it is “the” book. It is where one meets Christ, the living Christ, no less. It is not only a human document. In spite of its human limitations, it is foremost a divine document, needing a living faith for its use. Sad to say, to many Catholics today, the Bible suffers a painfully reduced status. That it’s an inspired book, written in some mysteriously harmonious way by God and man, and thus, in some way, a living book, is lost in the minds of people. In fact, the very concept of inspiration today is painfully devalued. Its original religious meaning is now replaced by poor, cheap if glittering imitations, geared more to petty romances and other expressions of mundane creativity.

Modern man’s concept of inspiration is actually an empty shell, a gravy without the meat, stuck with the accidentals but missing the substance. It has become a soulless creature, emasculated and castrated, a victim of the prevailing crisis in religion. Forgotten is the fact that being an inspired book, it contains God’s self-revelation to us, made full in Christ. With faith, the divine self-revelation takes the leap from written word to living word. Reading it, again with the proper dispositions, is entering into a vital dialogue with God, bringing us to a deeper level of reality. That’s when what is described in the Letter to the Hebrews becomes a beautiful event: “For the word of God is living and effectual, and more piercing than any two-edged sword, and reaching unto the division of the soul and the spirit, of the joints also and the marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intent of the heart. “Neither is there any creature invisible in his sight but all things are naked and Living the / P12

CINEMA Rating: For viewers 14 and above

CBCP Monitor Vol. 10 No. 17 December 4, 2006

CINEMA Reviews

Title: HAPPY FEET Running Time: 95 mins Lead Cast: Robin Williams, Hugh Jackman, Elijah Wood, Nicole Kidman, Brittany Murphy, Hugo Weaving Director: George Miller Screenwriters: Warren Coleman, John Collee, George Miller, Judy Morris Music: John Powell Genre: Comedy/Fantasy Distributor: Warner Bros Technical Assessment: Moral Assessment: CINEMA Rating: For viewers of all ages

Mumble (voiced by Elijah Wood) is a no-penguin penguin chick gifted with irrepressible tap dancing feet but cursed with a croaky voice not even his mother can love. His father Memphis (Hugh Jackman) is upset beyond belief while his mother Norma Jean (Nicole Kidman) tries to accept Mumble as he is. They are worried that Mumble can't have his own "heart song"--that which in penguin land is sung to find one's soul mate. He is therefore an outcast, being the only one in whole of Antarctica who can't sing. He goes off to places where he can be alone and dance to his heart's content, and soon comes upon a bunch of Latino penguins who call themselves Adelie Amigos, led by Ramon (Robin Williams). The much smaller Adelie Amigos take a liking for the outcast Emperor penguin Mumble and learn to tap dance from him. Feeling accepted for the first time in his life, Mumble joins the Amigos in a series of adventures that lead to his awareness of environmental abuses.

Happy Feet has its good and bad moments. It's beautifully animated--the ice-loving creatures look real down to the last feather, so that watching Happy Feet makes it hard for one to imagine if they can't really and actually dance or sing. The elephant seals, too, come across as just too real. Happy Feet is delightful to watch although in the back of the viewer's mind the credit goes to the animators, the computer wizards, those whose names roll on among the hundred other unknowns in the credits. Happy Feet is a production meant to capture the musical ear of the movie-going public, with tunes like Somebody to Love, Kiss, Do It Again, I'll Make Love to You and You Don't Have to be Rich being performed by the actors themselves. Brittany Murphy as Gloria, Mumble's lady love, is a discovery, a veritable "Antarctica Idol", although it's not easy to understand why Kidman as Mumble's mother must sound like a phone sex operator--it just isn't cool for a penguin mommy.

Title: ANG PAMANA: THE INHERITANCE Running Time: 111 mins Lead Cast: Darrel Gamotin, Caroline Mangosin, Nadine Villasin, Phoemela Baranda, Nicco Lorenzo Garcia, Angel Aquino, Tirso Cruz III, Jaclyn Jose, Victor Neri Director: Romeo Candido Producers: Pui Yin Chan, Titus Ho, Saw Yam Seah Screenwriters: Romeo Candido, Ria Limjap, Carmen de Jesus Music: Romeo Candido Genre: Horror Cinematography: Odyssey Flores Distributor: Toronto Candido Film Location: San Miguel Bulacan Technical Assessment: Moral Assessment: ½ CINEMA Rating: For mature viewers 18 and above

Nang mamatay si Lola (Caroline Mangosin), kinailangang umuwi ng magkapatid na Johnny (Darrel Gamotin) at Anna (Nadine Villasin) sa Pilipinas upang kumatawan sa kanilang ina sa pagbabasa ng "Last Will and Testament" at pagpaparti-parti ng mga ari-arian ng yumao. Napunta sa magkakapatid at kanilang pinsan na si Vanessa (Phoemela Baranda) ang malawak na lupain sa San Miguel, Bulacan. Pagkatapos ng libing ay pinuntahan ng tatlo ang kanilang bagong ari-arian. Makikilala ng magkakapatid si Tommy (Nicco Lorenzo Garcia), isang retarded na anak ng yaya na kahuhulugan ng loob ni Johnny. Sa gitna ng pagliliwaliw, bisyo at pagtuklas s mga misteryo ng kanilang pamilya ay magagambala ang ilang ispiritung itim, maligno, at iba pa. Matutuklasan ni Johnny at Anna

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na ang mga kwento ng kanilang lola ay totoo kung masususbukan ang kanilang tatag ng loob at ugnayan bilang magkakapatid. Ang istorya ay halos karaniwan ngunit sa malikhaing paghawak ni Candido interesanteng kuha na ginamit ang istilo ng "hand held camera", nabigyan ng bagong mukha ang kwento at matagumpay naman na nagbigay ito ng takot at kaba sa mga sumusunod. Lamang, medyo sabog ang daloy ng istorya dahil sa napakaraming maliliit na kwentong ipinapasok. Habang lumalaon din ay nawawalan na ng disiplina ang "visual treatment" nito dahil sa labis na paglalaro ng camera at editing. Maganda ang musika at disenyong pamproduksyon at malaki ang naitulong nito sa pagbuo ng kilabot. Mahusay ang pagganap ng mga baguhang aktor. Malaki marahil ang ikapupulido ng pelikula kung hindi lamang iisang tao ang humawak halos lahat ng aspetong teknikal at pansining. Masasabi na ring sa aspetong teknikal, sulit nang panoorin ang pelikula

Mahirap kakitaan ng halaga ang mga pelikulang ganito dahil habang nakahilig ito sa katutubong kultura at yaman ng alamat ay tinutuligsa naman nito ang buod ng ating pananampalatayang Katoliko. Ang paniniwala sa aswang, kapre, duwende at iba pang ispiritu na nananakit kapag may hindi nagustuhan sa tao, ang paggamit ng tawas at kulam at iba pang ritwal at pagmumulto ng mga kaluluwa upang manakot ay hindi tanggap ng simbahan. Sa kabuuan, walang sinabi ang pelikula kundi ang mga kwentong katutubong ito ay totoo. May mga elemento sa pelikula na hindi kaiga-igaya sa mga bata tulad ng droga, pagpapahiwatig na sekswal sa isang pinsan usapin ng pagpili ng aborsyon at paghihiganti. Dahil wala namang malinaw na direksyon ang istorya maliban sa magbigay kilabot at takot, mas mainam ng mga nasa hustong gulang na lamang ang magsipanuod nito.

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15 The lesson in the story has been told hundreds of ways before: it's not your fault that you're different, find your own giftedness, accept yourself for what you are, make a go of it and redeem yourself. There's a conscientisizing message here about global warming and how humans have been abusing the environment but it is not as wellpronounced as the message of tolerance and acceptance resonating throughout the whole movie. Perhaps because the penguin performers catch one's attention more than anything else. Or perhaps all that singing and dancing with but ice in the background mesmerizes the viewer to sleep, thus missing the other vital message. Generally, Happy Feet is wholesome enough for everyone, but cover the eyes of the small children when the elephant seals stalk Mumble--that could be pretty scary for tots.

Title: CASINO ROYALE Running Time: 140 mins Lead Cast : Daniel Craig, Eva Green, Mads Mikkelsen, Judi Dench, Jeffrey Wright, Giancarlo Giannini, Caterina Murino Director: Martin Campbell Screenwriters: Neal Purvis, Robert Wade, Paul Haggis Music: David Arnold Genre: Action/Suspense Cinematography: Phil Meheux Distributor : MGM Location: U.S.A. Technical Assessment: ½ Moral Assessment: ½ CINEMA Rating: For mature viewers 18 and above

Casino Royale opens with a spectacular chase scene where James Bond (Daniel Craig) makes some death-defying leaps only to end up with 007 killing the wrong person, a costly mistake magnified the next day in newspaper headlines. Bond, who has just received his license to kill status, gets a strong reprimand from M (Judy Dench), but goes on just the same to follow his nose, believing the man he just killed to be a bomb-maker. On his own, Bond does some sleuthing in the Bahamas and comes face to face with Le Chiffre (Mads Mikkelsen), a poker genius who finances terrorism not out of some ideology but for money. Bond smells Le Chiffre out to be a bluffer at the poker table and practically vows to beat Le Chiffre at Casino Royale, Le Chiffre's hangout in Montenegro. An accountant-the fragile, innocent Roman Catholic girl with a name to match, Vesper Lynd (Eva Green)--is assigned as Bond's accomplice. Bond is smitten by Vesper's purity, and so as not to further burden her conscience, he decides to resign from the service. Although the film is based on Ian Fleming's first Bond novel, Casino Royale (2006) is a far cry from Casino Royale (1967) which was a forgettable spoof. The 1967 version, however, doesn't have the iconic Sean Connery, which is good because then there is no basis for comparing Craig with the iconic Connery, the James Bond with whom no other James Bond player can compare. Remember Bond is supposed to be neophyte here, having just

been issued his license. The story calls for Craig's James Bond to be a different Bond, focusing on the person of the agent, not on the sophisticated and murderous gadgets his job affords him. He is as M says "a blunt instrument", not quite at home in a job that pays him to kill; besides, he has yet to hone his instinct for smelling out fakes. As might be expected, any Bond film's success would depend on who plays Bond, and Craig on his first outing as the British agent plays it marvelously well. Doing most of his stunts himself, Craig does in 30 minutes more jumping and tumbling and bleeding than Roger Moore has ever done in his entire Bond career. Great, too, is the acting of Green as the vulnerable woman Bond falls for, and Mikkelsen as the compleat poker player. Bond movies offer amusement and entertainment, and while Casino Royale seems to make a statement for love--when in a bind where he has to choose between his job and his woman, Bond singlemindedly chooses the woman--it is nonetheless amoral where human life is concerned. But of course, one might say, it's a spy movie, and spies kill and are killed as part of the job. Sometimes they also fall in love, or pretend to, and that's why a discerning mind is called for when viewing such movies. One shouldn't simply shrug a shoulder and say "C'est la vie!" Bond gadgetry and devil-may-care lifestyle offer no more than an escape. Be aware, lest you get entrapped in an illusion from which there is no more escape.

People, Facts & Places

Diocese of Malaybalay Holds 34 th Priests and Religious Assembly

THE Diocese of Malaybalay held its 34th Priests and Religious Assembly from 27 to 29 November, 2007, at the Diocesan Formation Center 1

with the theme “Priests and Religious: Community of Disciples Committed to Integral Evangelization (Moral, Political, Social, etc.) of Society.” Around 122 participants came, composed of 53 priests, 64 nuns, and 5 brothers. The event kicked off with an overview of last year’s assembly which was given by Sr. Janet Norombaba, Fd. C.C. It was then followed by the recollection which was facilitated by Malaybalay bishop Honesto Ch. Pacana, S.J. The bishop gave the challenge of what he calls the “In-between times”—the time between the Ascension of the Lord, and his sec-

ond coming. He likens these times as a desert experience—as marked by our experiences of finitude like failures and disappointments. On the second day, inputs on various urgent issues were given. The first talk, given by Fr. Joe Schwegmann: “Uprooting the Ugly Head of Feminism” presented the history and efforts of deception in order to control the number of children in families. It was followed by the input of Sr. Lucy Lucine, RVM “Hidden Danger in the Classroom: Sex Education”. Input on Political Situation and Election 2007, meanwhile, was delivered by Dr. Benjamin Tolosa, Jr., Chair, Department of Political Science, Ateneo de Manila University and Mr. Jess Paul Pacibe, project head of Simbahang Lingkod ng Bayan. The planning session then followed by groups or deaneries. It came out that the major

CBCP Monitor Vol. 10 No. 17 December 4, 2006

concern of every deanery is the coming elections, if ever it will push through. Fr. Biven Belderol, Vicar General of the Diocese pushed for the amendment of the diocesan policy regarding church workers interested to vie for a government position. At present, church workers in the diocese are asked to either resign or take a leave of absence if they run in the elections. The priest’s proposal is for the church to scrap the said policy and even go as far as supporting worthy candidates who are church workers. During the discussions, issues like the possibility of abuse of the pulpit for campaigns, and the possible division this will create among the lay faithful were discussed. Deaneries then were assigned to study and formulate guidelines on said issues. (Fr. Jonathan C. Tianero)

The Vicariate of Bontoc-Lagawe Music Ministry Presents “Marcsongs”

The CBCP personnel and staff, headed by CBCP Secretary General Msgr. Juanito Figura (2nd row, 3rd from left), pose with Balanga (Bataan) Bishop Socrates Villegas (2nd row, 4th from left) during their advent recollection held last November 25 at Sienna College, Hermosa, Bataan.

CELEBRATED. His Eminence Ricardo Cardinal Vidal , 75, archbishop of Cebu; 35th episcopal ordination anniversary; November 30, 2006. A native of L u c e n a (Quezon), Vidal was ordained priest on March 17, 1956, and as bishop in November 30, 1971. He was elevated to the college of cardinals on April 24, 1985. Among his other ministry works were: 1956-1957 as assistant parish priest of Mogpog, Marinduque and likewise as formator and professor at the Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Seminary, Lucena City; 1957-1965 as professor, spiritual director at the diocesan minor and major seminaries, diocese of Lucena; 1965-1971 as rector of the Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Seminary, also in Lucena. Before becoming archbishop of Cebu in September 18, 1982, earlier he was installed archbishop of Lipa (Batangas) on August 26, 1973. In 1986-1987, he served as president of the CBCP, and in 1989 became the chairman of CBCP’s Episcopal Commission on Clergy. From 1985-1994 he was the Convenor of the Standing Committee of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC) and was concurrently the president of Pontificio Collegio Filippino in Rome. At present, he is a member of the Roman Curia particularly of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples, Congregation for Catholic Education, and the Pontifical Council for Health Care Workers. Vidal received the following honoris causa degrees: Doctor in Sacred Theology, Honoris Causa, from the University of Santo Tomas, Manila; Doctor of Human Letters, Honoris Causa, from Manuel S. Enverga Foundation University, Lucena City; Doctor of Human Letters, Honoris Causa, from the Ateneo de Manila University; and Doctor of Humanities, Honoris Causa, from the San Carlos University, Cebu City.

CELEBRATED. Bishop Christian V.F. Noel, 69, Bishop of Talibon (Bohol); 25th episcopal ordination anniversary; December 2, 2006. Born in Asturias, Cebu, Bp. Noel entered the seminary at an early age in year 1950 at Seminario Menor de San Carlos, Cebu City. He was ordained priest on March 18, 1961 in Davao City. His former pastoral ministries include: as assistant parish priest of St. Francis of Assisi parish in Balamban, Cebu in 19621964; assistant parish priest of San Vicente Ferrer Parish, Bogo, Cebu in 1964-1966; parish priest of San Vicente Ferrer parish, Buanoy, Balamban, Cebu in 1966-1976; and in 1976-1982 as parish priest and vicar forane of San Vicente Ferrer parish in Bogo, Cebu. He was ordained bishop on November 30, 1981, as was appointed auxiliary bishop of Cagayan de Oro on January 19, 1982. Finally on September 6, 1986, he was appointed as the first bishop of Talibon (Bohol). CELEBRATED. Archbishop Pedro Dean, 76, archbishop emeritus of Palo (Leyte), 50t h sacerdotal ordination anniversary; November 30, 2006. A native of Calbayog, Samar, Dean first served as priest in the archdiocese of Cebu and subsequently as bishop of Tagum, Davao del Norte. Ordained priest in 1956, his erstwhile priestly ministries include: as private secretary to the archbishop of Cebu in 1957-1978; as diocesan aeconomus of Cebu in 1958-78; as Cebu’s vicar forane in 1975-1978; and as parish priest of San Nicolas parish, Cebu in 1976-1978. He then served as auxiliary bishop of Davao in 1978-1980, and subsequently as bishop of Tagum (Davao del Norte)

“Marcsongs” is a CD album of inspirational songs that can be used in spiritual gatherings, such as recollections, or simply in personal meditation. The singersongwriter Igorot priest, Fr. Marcial Lloyd Cariño Castañeda, or simply Fr. Marcs to friends, composed the songs contained in the album, thus the title “Marcsongs”. Some songs in the album are biblical in content and can be used during liturgical celebrations. Others are love songs written from the depths of human relationships. We invite you to listen to the beautiful biblically inspired “Marcsongs” and also to spread the word among your friends. In this way you support the BontocLagawe Music Ministry in its objective to inspire people through the power of music. Proceeds from this project will help in

the construction of the church of Sadsadan (Holy Family Mission Station) at Bauko, Mountain Province, and in the renovation of the barrio chapels of Sadanga (Our Lady of Assumption Mission Station), Mountain Province. Enjoy the music. Help build our churches. Order your copies of “Marcsongs” from the Bontoc-Lagawe Music Ministry, care of the Bishop’s Residence, Bontoc, Mountain Province, telephone / fax number (074) 462-4292. Copies of “Marcsongs” are also available at the Our Lady of Atonement Parish Office, Baguio Cathedral, Baguio City, telephone number (074) 442-4256, or email Fr Marcs Castañeda at marc_songs@yahoo.com or cp# 0918-5363980. (The Music Ministry of the Vicariate of Bontoc-Lagawe)

Markings in 1980-1985. Finally, in 1985, he was installed archbishop of Palo (Leyte) until his retirement last year. Dean is a former member of the CBCP’s Episcopal Commissions on Liturgy, Family Life, Social Action, Doctrine of Faith, as well as the CBCP’s Permanent Council. Dean earned his Philosophy (Bachelor and Licentiate) and Theology (Bachelor and Licentiate) degrees from the UST Central Seminary. His motto is OBEDIENTA ET PAX (Obedience and Peace), two virtues inherent to the person of Christ based on the scriptural passages, viz. – “He, who came in ‘obedience’ to the will of the Father (Lk. 22,42) and who, in leaving, bequeathed to His followers His ‘peace’ (Jn. 14,27)”. ELECTED. Fr. Baltazar Obico, OFM, 59; as Minister Provincial of the Franciscan Order of Friars Minor; October, 2006; at the 9th OFM General Assembly. As the new Minister Provincial, Obico will offer his ministry of service to the OFM friars for six full years from 2007-2013. Born on December 22, 1947 in Liliw, Laguna, the newly elected Minister Provincial is well immersed, oriented and adept at administrative matters and leadership. He was elected and has served the Friars as Provincial Definitor for two terms from 1995-1997 and from 1998-2000. After serving as Provincial Definitor for six years, he was elected as Vicar Provincial of which he served with dedication, diligence and special solicitude for the friars for another six years. With full trust and confidence in his competence and administrative aptitude, he was appointed by the Minister General Fr. Jose Rodriquez Carballo, OFM last 2002 as Visitator General to

the Franciscan Province of St. Thomas the Apostle in India. In the middle of that year, he was again appointed General Visitator to the Franciscan Province of the Holy Martyrs’ in Japan. For his educational preparation, he earned his Bachelor’s degree in ecclesiastical studies at the Our Lady of the Angels Seminary, Quezon City. He later obtained his Master’s degree in Franciscan Studies at St. Bonaventure University in New York, New York. His past assignments in the Province include: Pastor of St. John the Baptist Parish in Camalig, Albay; Rector of St. Anthony Shrine, Sampaloc, Manila; National Spiritual Assistant to the Secular Franciscan Order in the Philippines; Post Novitiate Director, Secretary for Formation and Studies, Lecturer, and as chairperson for Ministry and Promotion as well as of OFM Financial Board. Aside from his regular assignment, he has been a regularly sought after lecturer at the Franciscan Institute of Asia, and at the Correspondence Course for Franciscan Missionary Charism as well as at the Our Lady of the Angels College Seminary and Graduate School in Novaliches, Quezon City. CELEBRATED. YOUNGSTER Magazine, published by the Society of St. Paul congregation; 50th year of publication; November 25, 2006; at SSP compound, San Antonio Village, Makati City. The publication anniversary celebration began with a eucharistic celebration, followed by bible quiz bee, pep-talks on personality development, cartooning and school organ layouting, participated by selected youngsters from over 25 Catholic schools in Metro Manila and neighboring provinces. The event was capped with the awarding rites attended by young celebrities and performers from the showbiz industry.