Vol. III No. 1 August 2012 * Vol. III No. 1 August 2012 * Vol. III No. 1 August 2012 * Vol. III No. 1 August 2012 * Vol.
ACTS HANDA NA PARA SA
IFI @ 110
Isang malaking pagkakataon na naman sa Aglipay Central Theological Seminary ang maging kaisa ng buong simbahan sa Ika-110 taong Anibersaryong pagkakatatag ng Iglesia Filipina Independiente. Isa sa pangunahing tagapagtanghal ang mga seminarista ng ACTS upang lalong maging makulay at buhay ang gaganaping Banal na Misa sa ika -3 ng Agosto 2012 sa Ninoy Aquino Stadium, Lungsod ng Maynila. Sa pangunguna ni Rev. Danilo C. Ito bilang tagapagturo ng ACTS teatro, magkakaroon ng maikling pagsasadula ng kasaysayan ng Iglesia Filipina Independiente at iba pang mga liturhikal na sayaw na napapaloob sa Banal na Misa. Kaisa rin ang mga seminarista ng ACTS sa pag-awit sa nasabing Banal na Misa na pangungunahan ni Rev. Francis Lucero. Isa pa rin itong paraan sa patuloy na paghubog sa mga seminarista sa pagkakaroon ng malikhaing isip sa pagpapahayag ng patuloy na paggabay at pagtulong sa atin ng Diyos ng Kasaysayan. (Bro. Ramoncito Tadepa)
-Teodoro Agoncillo
AUGUST 2012
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Rector’s Desk
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Editorial
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Independence Day Celebrated! Seminarians sing for ABC: stage concert in Ilocandia A Learning and Meditative Experience ACTS Hosted Vocation Campaign Rector opens the Academic Year 2012-2013 Nine seminarians march to receive diploma; priest, certificate of study Nanumbalik sa hanay ang SoTaNA G.A. elects officers of the Council of Seminarians
Editor’s Plume
IFI 110th Proclamation Anniversary: Aglipayan Identity
Column Philosophical Milk
Feature TEC DIOCESE OF HAWAII VOWS INCREASE SUPPORT TO ACTS
News
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Through the shutter
Welcome First Year!!! ACTS goes for Lenten Retreat
16 Reflections
ACTS RECTOR ATTENDS THE SEVENTH CONGRESS OF ASIAN THEOLOGIANS
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Literary
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Acknowledgement
SoTaNA sa SONA
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Greetings to our readers! Today we are celebrating the 110 th Proclamation Anniversary of our adored Iglesia Filipina Independiente in high spirits. A century and a decade of our beloved church had come and she still continues to exchange blows with the rapid-changing cloaks of the society and coping up with the challenges while staying burly. We are very thankful to Yahweh for giving us the patriotic courage and psyche for the past 110 years and for the coming years to come. This issue of INTERACTS is said to be a special edition in connection to our churchâ€&#x;s festive atmosphere. Most of the major articles written are of concern with the celebration. The editorial staff would like to thank all the first year seminarians who contributed their feature write ups and articles for the success of this issue and likewise to the new members of the editorial staff and contributors who diligently dedicated their time despite the hectic schedule in the performance preparations for the 110 th Proclamation Anniversary. We are looking forward to your optimistic approach and hoping that you will be pleased about our toils. AGBIAG TAYO NGA AGLIPAYANO! AGBIAG TI SIMBAAN TAYO, IGLESIA FILIPINA INDEPENDIENTE! We would like to extend our gratitude to the persons who willingly shared their time to our queries. We regret for any errors or omissions we committed and we are asking for your contemplation regarding these matters. AGYAMAN KAM LA UNAY‌
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Our beloved Iglesia Filipina Independiente (IFI) now turns 110 years old and her festive celebration gathered under the theme “Mamuhay ayon sa pagkatawag ng Diyos na maglingkod” (1 Cor. 7:17). St. Paul exhorts us through this letter to continue living our individual calling by holding Christ as our supreme riches and not counting on our own achievements, privileges and ambitions in life. One nationalist play writer depicts the IFI as “altar na may laya” while another composer describes her as “pinalaya ng Diyos upang mag-palaya”. This portrayal is in essence her calling, that is, as one of God‟s chosen instruments to liberate the nation from principalities and power that enslave the land and its people in any moment of history. This given vocation is what St. Paul exhorts to lived-out not for self-preservation or gratification but for the glory of God who is the source of IFI‟s being. It is therefore not a mere creative brilliance of an artist or ambiguous coincidence in Philippine history that the IFI logo vividly depicts the sources of her strength, the pillars of her authority and the vocation she is task to minister. These four sources and pillars of our being a church are: Scripturae (the Bible as the Living Word of God that reveals His salvific plan), Sciencia (the Use of Reason and acquired Human Knowledge to discern the Word and understand the World to rightfully participate and experience the Reign of God), Caritas (the Manner to Practice God‟s desire through love, justice and solidarity with our neighbor especially the poor), and Libertas (to Attain the Liberation of people from Ignorance and all forms of Domination and Oppression). Doing it in praxis makes us true to our claim as “altar na may laya” and “pinalaya ng Diyos upang mag-palaya”. ACTS as a seedbed called to nurture and mold future ordained servant-leaders of the IFI is challenged to be true in following the vocation of this church. Therefore, it is the prayer and a commitment of this seminary in celebrating the 110 proclamation anniversary of the IFI, a theological education rooted in the light of the Word of God and critical theological reflection on praxis, and a seminary formation that engage students to practice love, justice and solidarity with the people towards God‟s promise of liberation.
Mabuhay ang ika-110 taong proklamasyon ng IFI! Ipagpatuloy ang makabuluhan at mapag-palayang teolohiya! Itaguyod ang ACTS!
EDITORIAL
IFI
110TH
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PROCLAMATION ANNIVERSARY: AGLIPAYAN IDENTITY
Christians comprise the biggest portion in terms of religious denominations. It includes the Roman Catholic Church, Iglesia Filipina Independiente, Iglesia Ni Cristo, of course, other Christian churches and the rest are the “indigenous” animistic beliefs of some people in the upland areas that resisted 300 years of Spanish colonial rule. This means that most of us live as influenced by our God and as what is written in the Scriptures. This also tells us that the Spaniards had successfully converted the bulk of Filipino people in their religious beliefs, which is not a bad thing also; however, we might not be in no way different as Christians but how we recognize and accept our church‟s identity is a big different story. So as we celebrate the 110 th proclamation anniversary of our church, let us not focus on what we usually do, -- reminisce and remember significant events, rather we must also give our attention to one of the frequent problems our church face, the IDENTITY. Unlike the IFI, the Roman Catholic Church and even the Iglesia Ni Cristo which are two of the big churches in the country became more popular because of their members or parishioners who are very vocal and proud of their religious affiliations. Aglipayans used to claim that they are Roman Catholics. Hence, one cannot help but ask , “Why do some of our members do this?” “Are they ashamed of our church?” In a Pastoral Letter issued by the SCB in 1988, it says: “The IFI has no land to give and wealth to offer. We only have ourselves to share. Living out our heritage is our response”. We might not have big churches and classic cathedrals to boast but we have our beliefs to be proud of. Going back to the question, why are some of us deny our church? Is it because we only have few active members as compared to other churches? Or we do not usually appear on the television conducting masses during Sundays, singing praises to the Lord, whatsoever? My brothers and sisters in Jesus, our church does not live with these things, rather it lives by its undying commitment to serve the Lord and the country. Big events may not be noticed but this is not important at all, because what matters most is the fulfillment of its commitment without braggart telling the world about it. So the next time when somebody will ask you about your church, never be ashamed to claim the Iglesia Filipina Independiente. This may somehow serve as an eye opener to everyone who is still at the midst of accepting the church. As Filipinos, let us all be proud of our church, our heritage, the concrete expression of our nationalism, Pro Deo et Patria!
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Filipino mariology All throughout the centuries, many scholars have spilled ink to produce sound theological treatises on Mariology. Such effort have produced diverse theological interpretation that created debates among the learned from different denominations. During the early medieval era of the church, Mary has been the center of controversies discussed by the early councils particularly the Council of Nicaea. The controversy was in regards to the “theotokos,� i.e. God-bearer. (The controversy was raised by Nestorius one of the prominent Antiochene theologians. He taught that Christ consisted of two distinct persons (human and divine) rather than a unified person. The nature of Christ is divided equally between His divine nature and His human nature, but the two are distinct and separate. God the Son, Jesus Christ, took on a human nature, yet remained fully God at the same time. Christ is both the Son of God and the man Jesus
It is through the above teaching that the Antiochene theologian concluded that Mary cannot be the Mother of God because Christ consists of two distinct persons, human and divine, which are also separate. Since he only took on a human form he remained fully God. Hence, Mary cannot be the Theotokos. But such theology is so western. No matter how much a great theologian will explain it, it will not have any meaning or even appeal to people who are rustic and brought up in a different culture. It is therefore better to have a contextualized understanding of Mary so people can easily understand who she is. How Juan Dela Cruz sees Mary The Filipinos see the Blessed Virgin Mary as a padrina --- as someone who can bridge people to God. She is someone who can bring to the Father the prayer requests of the people. In this aspect, Roman Catholic Filipinos and most IFI would see Mary as someone who would pester the Father until the latter gives in and answer the prayers. In the Filipino family if the mother is seen as the one who holds the fatherâ€&#x;s hand not to give a hand to any of the children when committed mistakes, Mary is believed in as intercessor. In a typical Filipino family, the mother comforts her children from pain. She does it through her gentle touch and warm embrace. Usually, a child who is hurt immediately stops crying when the mother rushes to comfort. Again, Filipinos who
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always experience economic suffering, disheartened because of failure would turn to Mary. Why? Precisely because faith tells them that such characteristics are possessed by Mary. All of the things mentioned above about Mary are part and parcel of a culture whose past has been marred by tyranny and oppression by the powerful. No wonder, Filipinos would always find figures may it be political or religious, to unload their burdensome suffering. It is not also surprising why Filipinos would seek miracles and do not care if such is authentic or not. What is important to them is to relieve themselves of pain. Again they will not care whether it is temporary or not. Such beliefs about Mary led Filipinos to celebrate her goodness. As a matter of fact there are so many feast days that are celebrated every year for Mary: her Immaculate Conception every December 8, the Assumption, Mater Dolorosa, Holy Rosary, her apparitions in many places like that in La Salette, France and the celebration of her birthday every September 8, just to name a few. Although the Catholics (Roman and Filipino) and the Orthodox may honor and venerate Mary, they do not view her as divine, nor do they worship her. Catholics view Mary as subordinate to Christ, but uniquely so, in that she is seen as above all other creatures. Similarly, the theologian Sergei Bulgakov wrote that although the Orthodox views Mary as "superior to all created beings" and "ceaselessly pray for her intercession" she is not considered a "substitute for the One Mediator" who is Christ. "Let Mary be in honor, but let worship be given to the Lord" he wrote. Similarly, Catholics do not worship Mary, but venerate her. Catholics use the term hyperdulia* for Marian veneration rather than latria that applies to God and dulia for other saints. “The Virgin Mary was chosen by God to be the Mother of Jesus Christ. As Jesus Christ is truly God and Mary is the Mother of Jesus Christ, she is the Mother of God in his human generation. She whom God honored is to be honored above all”* (DFAR, Articles of Religion #14). Roman Catholics and other religious denomina-
tions belonging to the Catholic tradition are criticized for the devotion and attention they give to Mary. Seemingly they are worshipping Mary but as they say: “You only establish a crime with the motive.” The action may tell, perhaps, that most people worship Mary. But when they are asked whether they worship Mary, their answer is clear, we are just venerating her, give her due honor and respect because she is Jesus‟ mother. Such is very Filipino. We highly respect mothers. Whether they are not our mothers or friend‟s mothers, the respect is there. Other denominations should not deter or criticize people who express their utmost desire to pay respect to Mary. Clergy, too, who think of stopping people from doing so, should not only think twice but many times. They should rather take part in the proper education of the people on the veneration of Mary not eradicate or stop it. Devotion to Mary survived centuries of tests and it will not be until this day if it did not give any good to people. Trying to stop this kind of belief and practice of the people will only establish ill-will between clergy and the laity and might cause division among Church members. Remember the words of the wise Rabbi Gamaliel: “Men of Israel, consider carefully what you intend to do to these men. Some time ago, Theudas appeared, claiming to be somebody, and about four hundred men rallied to him. He was killed, all his followers were dispersed, and it all came to nothing. After him, Judas the Galilean appeared in the days of the census and led a band of people in revolt. He too was killed and all his followers were scattered. Therefore, in the present case I advise you: Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find your selves fighting against God” (Acts 6:35-39). If the veneration of Mary enriches the spiritual aspect of the lives of people and help establish a harmonious relationship with others, let it be so!
Feature
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TEC DIOCESE OF HAWAII VOWS INCREASE SUPPORT TO ACTS
he Diocese of Hawaii of The Episcopal Church (TEC) vows to increase its commitment to ACTS in support to its theological education and formation program. This pledge was made by the Rt. Rev. Robert L. Fitzpatrick, the Diocesan Bishop of Hawaii to the ACTS Rector, Rev. Dr. Eleuterio J. Revollido during the IFITEC Concordat Council meeting held at Tampa, Florida on April 19-20, 2012. ACTS has been receiving an average of five hundred dollars a year coming from the collection of the annual ACTS Rector together with OM 1% Theological Education Offering of the Fajutagana & Bishop Fitzpatrick of TEC Diocese of Hawaii diocese. The support from the Diocese of Hawaii has been going on for a decade already that started in 2002. It was made possible through the generous leadership of the Rev. Canon Randolph V.N. Albano, who was installed Vicar of The Episcopal and Philippine Independent Church, Parish of St. Paul, Honolulu, in 1999. Fr. Albano has been instrumental also in ACTS campaign to acquire relevant books in its library to comply with the standard set for an accredited member of the Association for Theological Education in South East Asia (ATESEA). His untiring effort to support ACTS either through books, money or encouraging letters continue to flow. As of this writing the Rector was informed that three more boxes of books that he solicited from the library of the Rev. Dale C. Hathaway, Rector of St. Maryâ€&#x;s Episcopal Church are on its way.
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For the last ten years ACTS has been using the Hawaii theological education offering to support indigent but deserving seminarians. The following are its recipients: Saturnino Agustines, Jr. (2003-2006, Tuguegarao), Khristine Sampayan (2006-2007, Tarlac), Clifford Bayod (2007-2010, Ilocos Norte 1), Philip Jake Grande (2010-2011, Ilocos Norte 2), and Cesar de Guzman, Jr. (2011-2012, Tuguegarao). ACTS is hopeful that the increase in theological education grant this year will in any way help ease the increasing needs in running a theological seminary.
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ACTS NEWS
WELCOME FIRST YEAR!!!
Photo Taken by: Bro. Mon
Ang mga seminarista sa unang taon. Top Layer from Left: Bro. Rogelio, Bro. Aldrin, Bro. Philip, Bro. Jim, Bro. Mark, Bro. Cedrick. Second Layer from Left: Bro. Manuel, Bro. Richard, Bro. Christian, Bro. Jelo. Bottom Center: Sr. Anna Marie
These words were heard after the newly enrolled freshmen were matriculated as seminarians of Aglipay Central Theological Seminary last June 10 , 2012. The ceremony was incorporated in the liturgy presided by Rev. Dr. Eleuterio J. Revollido with the
Rev. Ramil Aguilar as homilist. It was Bro. Roehl L. Baldonado who presented the first year to the Rector to be matriculated. The new seminarians are the following : Philip AndrewR.Belarmino (BILLESA), Jim Zedrick O. Bondad (DAGUPAN),
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The seminarians of the Aglipay Central Theological Seminary went off for their lenten retreat. The Annual Lenten Retreat was held in the Diocesan Center of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Lingayen-Dagupan from February 22 to 23, 2012. The retreat was facilitated by the Rev. Ramil M. Aguilar, ACTS Chaplain, with the Very Reverend Eleuterio J. Revollido, S.Th.D. (Bro. Roehl)
RichardR.Borzon (BILLESA), Aldrin R. Castro (BILLESA), Jelo M. Dedumo (AGUSURIS), Ana Marie Aldon R. Diaz (LAGUNA), Mark Anthony H. Ecalne (BILLESA), Rogelio Cornelio V. Molina (BATAC), Manuel M. Pachoca (EASTERN PANGASINAN), Christian Edward D. Padua (LUISA), John Cedric C. Tolentino (LAGUNA), and Rivera Mark Anthony (BAT-BUL) (College Program). They signed in the book of life of the seminary as they promised to devote their whole life in the service of God and people, obeying the seminary policies and community rule of life. After signing and receiving the blessing from the rector they were presented to the congregation as new seminarians for the Academic Year 2012 - 2013 (Bro. Jim Zedrick Bondad). ****
ACTS GOES FOR LENTEN RETREAT
Photo Taken by: ACTS Administrative Office
The seminarians together with the Rector and the Chaplain during the Lenten retreat culminating activities.
ACTS News
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ACTS RECTOR ATTENDS THE SEVENTH SSC), the Program of Theologies and Culture in Asia CONGRESS OF ASIAN THEOLOGIANS (PTCA) and the Federation of
ACTS rector together with other theologian delegates of Seventh Congress of Asian Theologians held in Seoul, Korea. The Rector of Aglipay Central Theological Seminary (ACTS), the Rev. Dr. Eleuterio J. Revollido attended the Seventh Congress of Asian Theologians (CATS VII) held at the Methodist Theological University, Seoul, Korea on July 1-5, 2012. The congress was participated by 24 women and 46 men Asian theologians who gathered under the theme “Embracing and Embodying God’s Hospitality Today”. CATS is a movement of Asian theologians that was organized in 1996 and held its first congress in Korea the following year. The Philippines on her part hosted its sixth Congress at Central Philippine University, Iloilo City in 2009 where the Rev. Revollido was first introduced to this important
gathering of theologians. One of the main objectives of CATS is to “clarify, promote and enhance the co-operative process of theological studies and reflection among committed Asian theologians who are prepared to deal with critical Asian issues as part of the Asian theological agenda.” The prominent role towards its establishment was played by the Christian Conference of Asia (CCA) especially the contribution made by its former General Secretary, Dr. Feliciano Carino, a Filipino. The other founding members of CATS are the Association for Theological Education in South East Asia (ATESEA) in which ACTS is an accredited member, the Board of Theological Education of the Senate of Serampore College (BTE/
Asian Bishops‟ Conferences (FABC) of the Roman Catholic Church. With the significant and creative theological developments emerging in various Asian settings through the articulation of Asian theologies like the Minjung theology in Korea, Homeland theology in Taiwan, Dalit theology in India, theology of struggle in the Philippines, theology of dialogue and many more have made Asian Christianity and ecumenical life more relevant and challenging. The participation of ACTS through the Rev. Dr. Revollido, who was selected as part of the six member Continuation Committee to plan for the next congress is another great opportunity to share the IFI heritage, theology and struggle, Pro Deo et Patria to the theologians and Churches in
SOTANA SA SONA
Hulyo 23, 2012 muling ipinakita ng Seminarians on Transformation and Nationalism (SoTaNA) ang kanyang pakikiisa bilang mga taongsimbahan na makabayan sa masang Pilipino. Kasama ang iba‟t-ibang makabayang organisasyon, sama-samang nagmartsa sa kahabaan ng Commonwealth Avenue, (continue to page 24)
ACTS NEWS
The Parish of Divine Shepherd and ACTS community celebrated together the 114th Independence Day festivity. The Seminarians on Transformation and Nationalism (SoTaNA) organized the activities during the said celebration. It started with the Eucharist at 8 o‟clock in the morning which was officiated by Rev. Fr. Ramil Aguilar and The Very Rev. Eleuterio Revollido as the preacher, then followed by a clean-up drive along the highways of Nancamaliran East and West. This was made successful through the collaborative efforts of the seminarians and the congregation. They had their lunch
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Independence Day celebrated! A C T S seminarians together with the congregation of the Divine Shepherd Parish during the Clean-up drive last June12, 2012
together and everyone shared in the said feast. After the banquet, SoTaNA set up a film viewing entitled “Zone Pass”. At 3 o‟clock in the afternoon “Larong Pinoy” was conducted. Among the games were “patintero”, “Maria Maria went to town”, and “sinabot” or
Photo Taken by: Bro. Mon
coconut shell race. Other games were also played like tug-of-war, sack race, and volleyball. With the success of the said activities, the seminarians, together with the parishioners, look forward to celebrating the same event next year.(Bro.Manuel Pachoca)
Seminarians sing for ABC, stage concert in Ilocandia The seminarians of the in the dioceses of Ilocandia. Diocese of LUISA with the Aglipay Central Theologi- The first phase of the con- Parish of IFI Sinait as host. cal Seminary staged concert cert tour was held in the The second phase was staged in the Diocese of Batac in the Shrine of The Most Rev. Gregorio L. Aglipay. The proceed of the concert will go to the repair of the ACTS‟s ABC Building and the Parish of the Divine Shepherd. The concert tour participants were trained by the able deacons of the church, the Revs. Danilo C. Ito, Ed.D, for choreography and Francis L. Lucero for Photo Taken by: ACTS Administrative Office music and vocals. (Bro. The ACTS teatro during the ACTS Ilocandia concert tour Roehl Baldonado)
ACTS NEWS
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A Learning and A C T S H O S T E D Meditative Experience V O C A T I O N C A M P A I G N
Who said that meditation is boring? And indeed it is boring. Yeah, it is boring for those who do not understand it clearly and do not know the true worth of meditation. There is no other way to discover that but to start practicing and incorporating it in our daily lives much more for seminarians who are considered as „men of prayer‟. Hence last July 12, 2012 a four-man delegation from Aglipay Central Theological Seminary composed of Rev. Ramil Aguilar, seminary chaplain, Bro. Roehl Baldonado, seminary registrar, Bro. Ramoncito Tadepa and yours truly attended two conferences on meditation at De La Salle University – Manila Campus. Supposedly there were three conferences but we opted to attend only two for the seminary administration thought that these two were what the seminary need. These were the „The Experience of Townsville for Edu-
The Aglipay Central Theological Seminary (ACTS) yearly conducts vocation campaign to find people who want to serve God and his people. Every year, some people who attended the activity, however, are not really ready to face whatever challenges they might face; some only wants to attend this activity to test themselves if they are really capable of living in a community like this and if they really want to enter the seminary for their study. But only few responded and continued to enter the seminary. The most recent last vocation campaign was conducted last March. It began with fellowship led by the seminarians with the presence of faculty lead by Rev. Eleuterio Jose Revollido, the rector, and Rev. Ramil Aguilar, the chaplain of seminary. There were 5 candi-
dates who came from different dioceses that attended the campaign. Four of them were only high school, so they were advised to finish first their high school study because they were not yet qualified to enter the seminary due to the qualifications that a candidate must be at least a college level having 72 units from college before being admitted in the proper study of Theology in the ACTS. As a result of the said activity, one candidate was able to enter the seminary to study. It is in the person of Manuel Pachoca, from the diocese of Eastern Pangasinan, particularly in parish of St. Maria under the supervisory of Rev. Laarni SalaguintoInguito. He was admitted to the seminary because he is highly qualified; he doesn‟t have any problem about the requirements and he is commitcators‟ and „The Other Half ted to serve God and people. of Prayer for Men and Wom- God called unto him and he responded it. (Bro. Jelo M. en.‟ Rev. Aguilar and Bro. Dedumo)
Ramoncito joined other priests, pastors and seminarians and lay people in the lecture of Fr. Laurence Freeman on „The Other Half of Prayer for Men and Women‟. They did not only listen to the lecture but experienced the meditation propagated by the late Fr. John Main, OSB. On the other hand, Bro. Roehl and yours truly listened to Dr. Cathy Day and Ernie Christie as they shared to educators, catechists and seminarians their experience in the Diocese of Townsville in Australia in incorporating
Christian Meditation in the educational system of the diocese. Of course we also experienced Christian Meditation during the lecture. We came out from the conference rich with experiences and information on how to practice Christian Meditation and teach it to young people. We went home filled with hope that what we experienced will provide a new perspective for seminarians to enhance their contemplative life as men and women of prayer responding to their calling ACTS/14
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ACTS NEWS
RECTOR OPENS THE ACADEMIC YEAR 2012-2013! Seminarians were gathered at the conference hall of Aglipay Central Theological Seminary last June 17 for the opening of the academic year. The program started with a community song by the seminarians together with members of the
faculty headed by Rev. Dr. Eleuterio J. Revollido ,the rector of the seminary. It was followed by a prayer. The seminarians in every year level showed their hidden talents in singing, dancing and acting. The festive night ended with a message from the rector wishing
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After four years of formation in the seminary, nine seminarians received the fruits of their labor during the 21st Graduation Rites of the Aglipay Central Theological Seminary in Urdaneta City, Pangasinan. The graduates were: Bros. Armando M. Casim (Cavite), Cesar F. De Guzman, Jr. ( Tuguegarao), Felix F. Fam-
ini (Romblon-Mindoros), Ferdinand L. Geraldino (Surigao), Carl Winstone L. Norbe (Cavite), Eumer E. Pascual, Saranay P. Respicio (LUISA), Sherwin I. Sapngad (Ilocos Norte I), and Sr. Jessa L. Rebenito (BILLESA). Bros. De Guzman, Pascual and Sapngad received latin honor as cum laude. It was Bro. Cesar De Guzman who
Nine marches to receive diploma, priest, certificate of study
Photo Taken by: Bro. Mon
The Most Rev. Ephraim Fajutagana, D.D., and the other clergy together with the ACTS faculty and the new graduates.
the seminarians to become responsible, obedient, and strong in faith as all members cross the treshhold of hope towards better theological education, fruitful ministry, and harmonious relationship among church members. (Bro. Jim Zedrick Bondad) ****
received the Isabelo I. Delos Reyes Award for academic excellence for having the highest general average. Part of the rites was the granting of Cerificate of Study to the Rev. Ricardo M. Aguilar of the Diocese of Surigao who completed all the requirements to qualify for the award. The Graduation Rites was held at the Parish of the Divine Shepherd at two oâ€&#x;clock in the afternoon and attended by proud parents, close friends and benefactors of the IFI community. The guest speaker, Congresswoman Emmeline Aglipay, delivered the inspirational message to the graduates. Prior to the event was the baccalaureate mass which was officiated by the Obispo Maximo, His Eminence Ephraim S. Fajutagana, D.D. with his Reverence Buddy Ballesteros as preacher. (Bro. Roehl Baldonado)
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ACTS NEWS
NANUMBALIK SA HANAY ANG SOTANA!
to serve God and People. We also hope that we can impart this to children and young people to raise them as a people of prayer always seeking and listening to the will of God in the silence of their hearts. Would you still say that „meditation is boring‟? If yes, you better sit down with your back straight, hands on your lap, then gently close your eyes and start saying the shortest prayer for Christians, „MA – RA – NA – THA‟, ma – ra – na – tha, ma – ra – na – tha (Bro. Hardelio Alfeche,)
Hunyo 26, 2012, ito ay isang makasaysayang araw para sa mga kapatid nating seminarista ng Aglipay Central Theological Seminary (ACTS) sapagkat muling nakibahagi at nakiisa ang Seminarians on Transformation and Nationalism (SoTaNa) sa Ecumenical Prayer na ginanap sa Lapaz at Tarlac City sa Lalawigan ng Tarlac. Binuo ito ng mga makabayan at patriotikong mamamayan sa Gitnang Luzon upang gunitain ang ala-ala ng mga biktima ng tortyur at upang kalampagin narin ang Rehimeng-Aquino na
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G.A. elects officers of the Council of Seminarians The General Assembly and the election for the new set of officers of the Council of Seminarians was held last June 15, 2012 at the conference hall of the Aglipay Central Theological Seminary. The said assembly has been formally started by an opening prayer followed by the roll call and presentation of the agenda. The assembly was presided by Bro. Michael Consigna and Bro. Ramoncito Tadepa. Discussions of the past events and reports were
presented after which the orientation for the election procedure began. The Committee on Elections composed of the Class Representatives, prepared the ballots in which the voters will write the name of the candidate. The newly elected officers are the following: Bro. Hardelio Alfeche Jr. as Chairman; Bro. Invensor Lastimado as Vice Chairman; Sr. Angelyn Dela Torre as Secretary; Bro. Arvin Mangrubang as
palayain ang mga political detainees at National Democratic Front (NDF) consultants. Sa pagtitipong ito, ang mga taong simbahan ay nakiisa sa panawagan ng mga mamamayan na ibasura ng Rehimeng-Aquino at Estados Unidos ang napagkasunduang Human Security Act of 2007 . Sapagkat ayon sa tagapagsalita ng grupong Bayan Muna, ang batas na ito kinakasangkapan lamang ng administrasyon laban sa mamamayang naghahangad ng isang tunay na malaya, demokratiko, at makatarungang lipunan. (Bro. Aldrin Acoba) ****
Treasurer; Sr. Jewel Tumaliuan as Auditor; Bro. Junimy Madrona as House Master; Bro. Fernando Ellano Jr. as Refectorian; Bro. Juanito Lomocso Jr. as Sports Coordinator; Bro. Aldrin Acoba as Chief Sacristan; Bro. Ramoncito Tadepa as Student Librarian; Bro. Jim Zedrick Bondad as 1st year Class representative; Bro. Gemar Luyas as 2nd year representative; Bro. Dexter Solleza as 3rd year representative; and Bro. Dervin Consigna as 4th year representative. (Bro. Jim Zedrick
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Reflections
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Buhay-Seminaryo ni Bro. Jim Zedrick Bondad
Sa panimula ng bagong taon ng pagaaral sa seminaryo, ay lubos na nakalulugod sa pagpasok ang Masaya at nakangiting pag salubong ng mga butihing guro at iba pang miyembro ng komunidad, panibagong taon, panibagong pag subok ika nga. Bawat umaga, sa pagmulat ng mga mata ay kampana ang maririnig, hudyat ng pagsamba at pagpapasalamat sa bagong umaga. Dasal at mga awit ang laging hinahanda. Sa pagkain ay laging magkakasabay at sa hapag laging may kasamang dalanging pasasalamat may mga paalala pa nga bago sumubo ng kanin. Bawat isa ay may kanya kanyang mga gawain, may tagaluto, taga walis at meron din namang tagahugas ng pinggan. Ilan lamang ito sa mga gawain ng mga mag-aaral sa seminaryo bukod pa sa Sabado na kung saan ang lahat ay dapat gumising ng maaga upang magehersisyo na may kasamang pagsamba. Sa pagaral ay laging dapat magaral at magsunog ng kilay sapagkat nariyan ang mga butihin at magagaling na mga guro na may laging may nakahandang tanong at pagsusulit, sama-sama sa pagaaral at nagtutulungan sa bawat leksyon na natututunan. Dito ay hindi lamang kaalaman ang hinahasa kundi pati rin ang talento sa pagkanta. Sintunado man ang tono, naiwawasto sa tulong ni Deacon Francis. Sa pagsasayaw, kaliwa man ang dalawang paa ay nagkakapantay sa pag indak matapos ang pag-uunat ni Deacon Danny. Sa mga problema ay sama-sama at sa kalokohan ay kanya-kanya. Masaya ang grupo lalo naâ€&#x;t nagkakaisa. May bangayan man at pagtatalo, hindi pa rin nawawala ang pagmamahalan sa bawat isa. Sa buong araw ng pag-aaral at paggawa, bago matulog ay dapat sumamba ng sama-sama upang pagpapala ay madama. Sa pagtulog man ay may biyayang buhay na kakamtin pagsikat muli ng araw. Ganyan ang buhay seminaryo, masaya at laging nadarama ang Panginoon sa kabila man ng pagsubok at kalungkutan. Laging nariyan ang mga guro at mga kasama upang masandalan, at dito sa mahal na seminaryo ay iyong mararamdaman ang tunay na kahulugan ng pagkakaisa, pagtutulungan, at pagmamahalan.
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Reflections
Psalm 8: God’s Glory and the Dignity of Man by Rev. Dominador Niño, Jr. Psalm 8 consists of two parts, God‟s Glory and the Dignity of Man. This OldTestament textwas also used in the New Testament particularly on verse 3, which can be seen on the Gospel of Matthew 21:16, verses 4-6 on the book of Hebrews 2:6-8, verse 6 on the letter of Paul to the Corinthians 15:2. Psalm 8:3 when I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place Matthew 21:16 Do you hear what these children are saying? They asked him. Yes Jesus replied, you have never read. “From the lips of children and infants you have ordained praise.” Psalm 8:4-6 what is man that you are mindful of him the son of man that you care for him? You made him a little lower than the heavenly beings and crowned him with glory and honor. You made him rule over the works of your hands; you put everything under his feet. Hebrews 2:6-8 but there is a place someone is testified:”What is a man mindful of him, the son of man that you care for him? You made him a little lower than angels you crowned him with glory and honor and put everything under his feet.” Psalm 8:6 you made him ruler over the works of your hands you put everything under his feet 1 Corinthians 15:27 for he has put everything under his feet. This some proof text the Old Testament in the New Testament, but let‟s try to zero in, in Gods Glory and the Dignity of Man. In the Old Testament God‟s Glory was shown in the creation story Genesis 1 from empty and formless mass cloaked in darkness. God started to show God‟s Glory thru the inhabited world. Likewise Old Testament people also describe God as Anthropomorphic meaning God is like a human who has body parts like; 1. God speaks Genesis 1:3 and God said, “let there be light”, and there
Reflections
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was light 2. God hears Exodus 16:12 “I have heard the murmurings of the people Israel. 3. God sees Genesis 6:12 and God saw the earth, and behold it was corrupt. 4. God smells 1 Samuel 26:19 Now therefore let my Lord the King hear the words of his servant. 5. God laughs Psalm 2:4; 59:9 He who sits in the heavens laughs, that Lord has them in derision. 6. God whistles Isaiah 7:18 In that day the Lord will whistle for the fly which is at the sources of the streams of Egypt, and for the bee which is in the land of Assyria. 7. God has eyes Amos 9:4 and though they go into captivity before their enemies, there I will command the sword, and it shall slay them, and I will set my eyes upon them for evil and not for good. 8. God has hands Psalm 139:5 thou dost beset me behind and before, and lay your hand upon me. 9. God has arms Isaiah 51:9 awake, awake, put strength on the arm of the Lord. 10. God has ears Isaiah 22:4 therefore I said: look away from me, let me weep bitter tears, do not labor to comfort me for the destruction of the daughter of my people. 11. God has feet Nahum 1:3 the Lord is slow to anger and of great might and the Lord will by no means clear the guilty. His way is in whirlwind and storms, and the clouds are the dust of his feet. Marvelous things had done of God in the Old Testament particularly in the life and works of Israel. While in the New Testament God‟s glory was shown in many parts of the Gospel but more so in John 114 when the word became flesh and dwelt among us! And in John 3:16 for God so love the world that he gave his only begotten Son! Here, God‟s Glory is really shown. On the other hand take a look at man! What is Man? The philosopher says, I am what I become. The capitalist says, I am what I own. The scholar says I am what I know. The existentialist says, I am what I do. The radical says, I am not what I reject, but for us Christians, we say, by the grace of God I am what I am (1 Corinthians 15:10). All the writers of the Old Testament were concerned with the life of mankind. They describe the thoughts, feelings and actions of men in many different ways. Scholars have found evidence to support several different views of man‟s essential nature. Some speak of man having 3 parts: body, soul, and spirit. Most agree that whatever parts of human nature are distinguished in Israelite thought, the most important belief is that human life is a unity of being. Therefore God‟s glory is made manifest in man, His image and likeness and the crowning glory of creation!
Reflections
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By Sr. Anna Marie Aldon Diaz What is bell? What is the purpose of the first bell? Is it important? In the seminary, we can say that our day begins with a bell and ends also with a bell. Bell is used as an alarm for all the people in the community. It is also a sign to give thanks to God for another gift of life that He gave to us. If you hear the first bell, it‟s time for you to wake up because this is the time that God showers us His blessings and if you stay asleep you cannot have the blessings. The first bell is of no purpose if we do not make any move after we hear it. It is, perhaps, the sign that God is calling us to perform our task for him. Theologically, the bell is the voice of God calling people in his service. The bell, the first bell should remind us when Yahweh called out, “Shemah, Israel! (Hear, O, Israel!) When the bell rings, let us quiet ourselves, listen intently that all of us may know his will for us and come together in His Kingdom. The bell should be a constant reminder of our calling to God and people. It should not pester us but rather ring in us the fatherly call of God to his children. When the bell rings, it implies listening and obedience. They prepare us for mission.
When I was younger I thought it was just an ordinary day. I thought it was just my birthday that will be celebrated. When I was still in high school, I often wondered why there was a parade. I asked my mother, “why” but she could not give me a good answer I began to search for answers to my query, “Why do people in festive mood? Do they celebrate also my birthday? To satisfy my inquiry I took a calendar to see what event coincides with my birthday. Unfortunately the calendar did not give me the information I needed. I was then a sophomore when my friends convinced me to serve as an “altarboy” in our parish. It was then that my query was answered. My birthday coincides with the founding anniversary of the “Iglesia Filipina Independiente.” I realized that it is a great day of merriment not only for me and my family but also for the faithful of our church and some Filipinos who have known the great contributions of Fr. Aglipay and Don Belong for our country‟s independence. I am grateful that I was born in my Church, with my Church, and for my Church! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME! HAPPY BIRTHDAY IGLESIA FILIPINA INDEPENDIENTE!
Literary
Blood for freedom
A symbol of sacrifice For a big prize Their hand were slice And the servants will organize
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by Bro. Mark Anthony Ecalne
The natives remove the tie And they are prepared to die And flow their blood like a tide For the future of child will shine
Red, a sign of courage and blood The result of blood and tears That shower and create flood Is to use their bolos and spears Our nation cries very loud And they forgot their fear The voice heard God in the cloud For the freedom of the people land they can cheer.
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Literary
Rev. Roderick B. Labog
by Max Ehrmann
Tayo‟y magbalikwas, sumulong at magbunyi…. Habang ang kadiliman ay nanatiling nasa karimlan, Habang ang makapal na ulap sa kalangitan ay nagbabadya, Habang ang nagngangalit na kulog ay dumadagundong, Habang ang pusikit na gabi‟y binabalot ng kapalaluan, Habang ang mga makamandag na ahas at lobo‟y lantaran sa paglapa, Liwayway ay sasapit, naiidlip na diwa‟y bubugso at sisilakbo,
Maybe you have a still soul that
Mababangis at mapagsamantala‟y mangagsisikalat at maibubuyo. Tayo na‟t magkaisa at manindigan,
Nasa atin ang panahon at pagpapasya, Huwag manlumo ni manghina Tumayo sa ating makalangit na prinsipyo, Ang bukang liwayway ay daratal, Maningning na umaga‟y ating masisilayan, Pagdaka‟y, sisikat ang araw sa Silangan, Doo‟y ating makakamtan bagwis ng paglaya. NASA ATIN ANG TAGUMPAY KAYA‟T HALINA AT HUMAYO, SAMA-SAMA AT BUONG GITING NA LAGUTIN ANG TANIKALA MANINDIGAN SA ALITUNTUNIN AT PANUNTUNAN NG MAYKAPAL, IGUPO, MAKASARILING INTERES NG MGA MAPAG-IMBABAW, KAYA NGA, SA LAHAT NG PANAHON AT PAGKAKATAON, MAGBALIKWAS, SUMULONG AT MAGBUNYI… PARA SA GANAP NA TAGUMPAY
goes murmurless like water in the deep of rivers; And perchance you wander silent amid the din of the world's grinding barter like one journeying in strange lands. You, too, with the still soul, have your mission, for beneath the dashing, noisy waves must ever run the silent waters that give the tide its course.
Bro. Christian Edward Padua Editor-in-Chief Sr. Cherry Mae Felipe Associate Editor Bro. Aldrin Acoba News Editor Bro. Mark Anthony Ecalne Feature Editor Bro. Juanito Lomocso, Jr. Sr. Anna Marie Aldon Diaz Bro. Manuel Pachoca Bro. John Cedric Tolentino News Writers Sr. Angeline dela Torre Cartoonist Bro. Ramoncito Tadepa Lay-out/ Graphic Artist Sr. Jewel Tumaliuan Publication Manager Bro. Roehl Baldonado Adviser Rev. Eleuterio Revollido S. Th. D. Consultant
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Literary
The Obtained Freedom by Bro. Jim Zedrick Bondad From our great ancestors, heroes and priests To the poor and oppressed exists, The digging of freedom starts And the struggles of life thwarts. They fought to reach the light Through to dark and gloomy night Their faith made them to hold on tight In the time of movements, sorrows and fight After many scuffle for the freedom Our fore-fathers received wisdom To make us free from oppression And build a church for the Filipino nation.
he t ll ngs a hi ldon Diaz Do t d Marie A o s o ing G na n r. A by S
th , ood, g e an can’ h u t all you cans you can , Do o e an e m ays y you c ; h t e w es can , all by all the plac s you can in l th time e you an. l l e c in a ll th peop you r a e e in l th s ev a al to long s a
“Prisoner” by: Bro. John Cedric Tolentino
Some of my decision Are affected of my emotion To give my love ambition But I can‟t because of my situation Please me if I can give my heart Because the wound is still fresh and hurt And paradise for me is only an art I can‟t appreciate the beauty of earth I feel it‟s better to be alone Than to hurt you like a flower I need to be like a stone Because I cant move and I‟m a prisoner
Best of Friends By: Phillip Andrew Bellarmino
It started with nothing From then, comes a beautiful thing No one ever imagined Two of us be close like we’ve been Best of friends is what we call But now, everything fall Friends and best friends before Now are hater and so much more This is not what I wanted to be Friends or best friends; that is ok But we can’t get it either So we end up bitter
Literary Ano ba ang habang nagpapahinga? At bakit ito ang pinaka ok alright sa mga seminarista? Alam mo ba kung ilang beses mangaanak si dada sa isang taon?
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Mga Kwentong barbero sa seminaryo ni: Paeng Gulgulangot(4 President na)
Gusto mo ba ng habang nagpapahinga
Ang terminong ito ay nabuo sa pamamagitan ng isang rector na masipag at masinop pagdating sa kalinisan ng seminaryo. Bawal ang tumunganga lang sa trabaho. Pero ano ang kaugnayan ng habang nagpapahinga? Ito ang halimbawa base sa utos ni rector: O wala kang ginagawa? Mag walis ka muna ng buong centennial building “habang nagpa pahinga”. Ang saya diba, astig? Ito ang salitang madalas marinig ng bawat seminarista. Kapag lumalapit na si rector, nagkakandaugaga na ang mga seminarista, hindi sa pagtatrabaho, kundi sa pagtakbo at pagiisip kung paano makakaiwas sa salitang pamatay. Parang sa special force pa nga ang bira ni rector minsan, multi kill, maramihan. Ang mga bagay na ito ay nagaganap sa work details pero ang mas grabe sa general cleaning, kasi always join si rector sa aming pagtratrabaho. Ang bawat seminarista ay mayroong nakatalagang Gawain kada isang linggo na lilinisan mo, maaring mapunta ka sa simbahan, sa C.R, sa grounds, sa staff house, sa centennial building, sa hallways, acts force at ang masaklap na gawain, dishwasher at cook (ito ang pinaka-ayaw kong gawain) kung may hindi pa ako nalista, itanong nyo na lang sa house master. Masaya maglinis, kasi may iba‟t-ibang mukha kang makikita: “plot ups” ito ang tawag sa mga seminaristang walang reaksyon pag naglilinis, parang walang pakealam kung magiba ang centennial o ang simbahan, basta siya naglilinis. “joker” ito naman ang taong mahilig magpatawa at tumawa habang naglilinis, mas marami pa ata ang naitawa ng taong ito kesa sa nalinis nyang kalat. “blood pressure” ang tawag sa taong laging high blood, un bang tipong laging parang walang ginagawa ang kasama niya, madalas parang bossing umasta ang taong ito, tila may problema sa puso, nasosobrahan ata sa dugo. “etchusera/etchusero” iba naman ang trip nitong mga taong ito, gusto nila laging kwentuhan muna bago magdetails, mas malaki pa ang oras na tinambay nila para makipagkwentuhan kesa sa nagawa nilang trabaho. “Eskapology” ang tawag sa taong mahilig mageskapo sa trabaho, hindi pa tapos ang gawain, nalarga na pauwi, syempre may baong palusot ang taong ito para makaligtas sa galit ng mga tinakasan niya. “Rizalista” ang taong nagpapakabayani, naglilinis sa mga lugar na hindi niya sakop, at huli kung umalis sa gawain, un nga lang pag nainis na sa kasama ang taong ito dahil siya lagi ang naiiwan, magiging escapology na din siya bandang huli. “lawyer” ang seminaristang ayaw malamangan, gusto laging pantay ang trabaho, at kung hindi naging pantay, lintik lang ang walang ganti, babawian niya ang kanyang mga kasama sa susunod na paglilinis, mauuwi din sa escapology ang taong ito. “boy logtu” tawag sa seminaristang late sa details dahil nasosobrahan lagi sa pagtulog. “Commander in chief” ito naman ung seminaristang panay ang utos sa kanyang kasama, na parang ang pagod nya na lamang eh ung pagsasalitang ginagamit sa pag-uutos. “H1N1” ang tawag sa seminaristang laging nagkakasakit kapag general cleaning na. mahusay ang taong ito, sa sobrang husay niya, kaya niyang diktahan ang sarili niya kung kalian siya magkakasakit, at ito pa ang matindi, parang doctor din siya, dahil alam niya kaagad ang kanyang sakit kahit walang matatawag na totoong sintomas. “ulirang seminarista” ito naman ang taong aktibo sa mga details, walang sablay, ni minsan hindi tinamad sa paglilinis, walang pinipiling trabaho at oras kung kalian ito gagawin at hindi dinadahilan ang karamdaman sa lahat ng gawain, dahil ayaw niyang manlamang; mabuting halimbawa siya sa lahat. Sa kasamaang palad, wala pang ganito sa seminaryo. Sa kabila ng ganitong kalagayan, wala mang perpektong seminarista sa aming lahat, nagsusumikap pa rin kaming ibigay ang lahat ng aming kakayahan upang mapaganda, mapaunlad at maging malinis ang seminaryo, ito man ay sa iba‟t-ibang paraan at pagkakataon, ang tanging mahalaga, iisa ang aming layunin, ang mapabuti ang seminaryo. Sa aming pagtatapos, ang baguhin naman ang lipunan at ang bawat mananampalataya ng iglesya. Mahirap man, magulo, sakit sa ulo, pasaway o kung ano-ano pang katawagan ang taglaytaglay ng bawat isa, ang importante ay natuto kami sa mga bagay na ito, sa bawat pagkakamali na aming itinatama at matututo pa, upang mahubog sa pagsisilbi sa mas malawak pang sambayanan. Lalong-lalo na sa mga pilipinong nangangailangan ng tulad namin.
24 <<<pagpapakita ng patuloy na pakikiisa ng SoTaNA sa malawakang protesta sa araw ng SONA ng Pangulong Aquino.
(SOTANA sa..from page 10)
Lungsod ng Quezon upang magprotesta sa araw ng State of the
na ito ay ang pagpapakita pa rin ng patuloy na panawagan ng mga mamamayan, kasama ang mga taong-simbahan sa pagkakapantay-pantay na karapatan, paghingi ng katarungan at paglalahad ng tunay na nangyayari Nation Address (SONA) sa ating bayan at ang ng Pangulong Benigno tunay na kalagayan ng Aquino III. Ang pagkilos sambayanang Pilipino. (Bro. Sherwin Fortu) Acknowledgement
To all our generous sponsors who extended their untiring support for the sustenance of the seminary, our sincerest gratitude. Thank you for all your support. Rest assured of our prayers every time we celebrate the Eucharist!â&#x20AC;? - A.C.T.S. Community