SACS Update Vol. 14 No. 1 by The Augustinian Friars

Diakonia:

COMMON ACTS

2013-2014 Formation Thrust

SACS Celebrates Fr. Nick’s Golden Anniversary Features

SNTH Welcomes Eight Newly Simply-professed Friars

Meet the New Aspirants This collage portrays how our Augustinian way of life transforms us to be a community for service of others. At the center is an Augustinian heart reminding us that true service comes from a heart that truly praises and glorifies God above all things.

or the second year of its four-year formation program, the San Agustin Center of Studies opens its Formation Year (2013 – 2014) focusing on the thrust Diakonia. While last year’s formation thrust focused entirely on the theme Kerygma, the theme Diakonia is taken as one of the basic functions of the Church. Quoting Saint Augustine regarding Diakonia, Fr. Nelson Zerda, OSA, Master of the Simply-professed Friars, underlined that

EDITORIAL

Diakonia [page 12]

Act, Pray and Serve: a Challenge to the Newly-installed

2013 Augustine’s Day Focuses on Faith and Service

“Agently.” These were the words of Rev. DService: Fr. Eusebio B. Berdon, OSA, Prior Provincial of the Augustinian Province of Sto. Niño de Cebu – Philippines as he challenged 13 Simply-professed Friars whom he installed to the Minor Ministries last July 23, 2013 at the San Agustin Chapel during the celebration of the Holy Eucharist.

rawing from the theme, “From Faith to Augustine’s Steadfast Conviction Towards Holiness,” this year’s feast of St. Augustine intensifies the need to affirm one’s faith in Jesus Christ and to put it into practice, for faith without practice is useless, as the scriptures say. The SACS community, through the initiative of the different committee

Installed [page 10]

FIESTA [page 4]

ct effectively, Pray unceasingly, and Serve

Betwixt and Between SOCIAL ACTION

SP Friars begin Apostolate

COMMON ACTS

sacsupdate vol. 14, no. 1 June to August 2013

(Top): Solemn-professed Friars joined Fr. Nicolas Echeveria, OSA as he celebrates his golden anniversary in religious life. (Bottom, R-L): Fr. Nick receiving a gift from an ASOLC sister; his family members who graced the event; solemn-professed friars sing a tribute to Fr. Nick.

hree days after his operation at USTHospital, Rev. Fr. Nicolas Echeveria, OSA, was surprised by a tribute on the celebration of his golden anniversary as a religious organized by the SACS community. At the Eucharistic celebration presided by Rev. Fr. Eusebio Berdon, OSA, last July 22nd, Fr. Nick, as he is fondly called, thanked all who have been very supportive to him since he entered San Agustin Convent in 1963 until now in the midst of “the physical sufferings he felt,” he said. In all these, he believed that “there are a lot of people joining him in prayer.” Thus, for him “he is willing to accept whatever is the will of God.” The Simply-professed Friars sang most of Fr. Nick’s composition during the Mass. Fr. Willy Araña, OSA, Regional Vicar of the Vicariate of the Orient in Intramuros and Fr. Nick’s contemporary in San Agustin

SACS Celebrates Fr. Nick’s Golden Anniversary by Fray Christian Funtanares, OSA Photos by SACS Mass Media Center; Fr. Arlon Vergara, OSA; Fray Ric Anthony Reyes, OSA Convent who was also present in the Mass, recalled how Fr. Nick loved his religious vocation. “In fact,” he said, “because of his great love and devotion, God had given Fr. Nick a gift to take graduate studies in Universidad de Madrid which made him the first Filipino Augustinian to study in that prestigious institution.” Present also during the event were some members of the Echeveria family who hailed from the regions of Visayas and Mindanao. His sister, Sr. Ma. Nilda Echeveria, OSA of the Augustinian Sisters of Our Lady of Consolation, related how Fr. Nick became so in love with prayer and music. According to

her, it’s Fr. Nick who, to wake them up every morning, shouted “Benedicamus Domino.” From this experience she had with her brother, who later became a priest, it’s no doubt, she believed, that Fr. Nick is a man gifted with passion and perseverance. Before the Prior Provincial, Fr. Nick made a renewal of the vows of poverty, chastity and obedience. Fr. Berdon, in his homily, challenged those present that the golden anniversary of Fr. Nick to religious life highlighted three significant themes. First, drawing from the Psalm, ‘My soul is thirsting for you, O Lord, My God,’ Fr. Berdon said that the reason of our thirsting for God is the reality that we are

restless. This restlessness can only take its rest from God alone. Second is the freedom under grace. This Augustinian theme is best explained in Fr. Nick’s composition entitled Freedom Under Grace. For Fr. Berdon, “we are free to serve God. And that freedom is in itself a Grace.” Finally is the heart that is burning inside us. “Just like Mary Magdalene whose feast we celebrate today, God wanted us, his followers, to announce to the disciples that He has indeed risen.” He continued, “If we really love our vocation, our heart will always be burning with His love. This love needs to be shared with others. This is the kind of love that is burning in the heart of Fr. Nick.” Meanwhile, seminarians from each level of formation in SACS, sang the songs composed by Fr. Nick himself. Around 100 guests and friends shared the joy of Fr. Nick’s golden memories in religious life. 

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COMMON ACTS

SACS Prepares for 6th AIFC

onsidered to be one of the most significant activities in the formation of Augustinian seminarians in the Province of Sto. Niño de Cebu – Philippines, the Commission on Vocation and Initial Formation, headed by Rev. Fr. Jose Rene Delariarte, OSA, agreed last July 8, 2013 that the 6th Augustinian Initial Formation Congress, shall have the theme, Cor Inquietum. The theme for this year follows

the process of interiority which identifies the “Woundedness of the Heart” (last year’s theme), and now highlighting the internal dynamics of the heart (conflicts, resistances, integration). This will be held on October 29-31, 2013 at San Agustin Center of Studies. The three-day congress will deal with the four principles of Augustinian formation: Human Formation, Christian Formation, Religious Augustinian Formation,

Pastoral Formation under the theme: “Cor Inquietum.” The four principles, therefore, will be discussed having the heart that is restless as the framework. The purpose of putting these four principles under a single theme is to make the discussions more comprehensive depending on the different levels of the participants in the initial formation program (college aspirants, college postulants, professional aspirants

and postulants, novices and Simply- professed friars). The steering committee headed by Fray Reo Cabahug, OSA, and Fray Rodel Magin, OSA has invited speakers to the participants in the initial formation program. These speakers are active members of the Augustinian Province of Sto. Niño de Cebu-Philippines. (Fray Cabahug, OSA)

Fr. Borre Leaves for Spain

ne of the members of the SACS community will leave for Valladolid, Spain to study Church History sometime this year. In a one-onone interview conducted by SACS Update Correspondents, Rev. Fr. Ericson Borre, OSA shared his feeling when his attention was called by the Prior Provincial to do further studies in Church History specializing in the History of the Augustinian Province of Sto. Niňo de Cebu-Philippines. “Why not while still young!” Fr. Borre exclaimed. “I really love research and studies. Though, as a Procurator, my work is so heavy, I really find

time to read, to study and to research. This is what I love, and I really love what I am doing,” Fr. Borre said. K n o w n to be a lover of volleyball and pets, Fr. Borre too enjoys the company of others. Being a SACS Procurator for six years, he sees formation as an accompaniment not an authority. That is why, he spends time with seminarians and with his colleagues in formation. He

used to teach at the St. Thomas of Villanova Institute. He loves music very much, and he is a prolific writer. “Now that we are already 30 years old as a Province, there is a need to reconstruct the history of our Province. Aside from that, as we prepare for the 2013 General Chapter to be held in Rome, my studies in Valladolid is our response to the call of the Order to have at least a historian in every

circumscription, as mandated in the Intrumentum Laboris for the 2013 General Chapter,” he said. Fr. Borre admitted that he feels anxious about the new environment he will have in Spain. He will stay in the Convento de San Agustin which is very accessible to Museo del Oriente where pertinent documents about the history of the Province are kept. The Province has given Fr. Borre six years to finish Advanced Graduate Studies in Church History. He finished his Master’s degree in Theology at the San Sebastian College in 2005. (Fray Miranda, OSA)

SACS Facilities Upgraded

n order to facilitate well the wholistic approach of formation to seminarians, SACS continuously upgrades some important facilities in the seminary. In Saint Thomas of Villanova Institute, two new overhead projectors were installed in classrooms 1 and 2. This will make it easier for the students to

watch films and have PowerPoint presentations especially during class lectures. The Speech Laboratory also was upgraded in order to boost the confidence and improve English speaking proficiency of the seminarians who are trained in the early stage of formation towards priestly ministry whose one of the many functions is to deliver a homily. It

is partitioned into two segments, one the Speech Lab proper, and next to it, is a small stockroom for important files, equipment, and archives of the institute. The Colloqium Patricii, in St. Monica Hall, was repainted and its facilities were upgraded such as the air-conditioning system, chairs and the sound system. New Wide screens and projectors were

also installed. Official meetings of STVI faculty, thesis defense of 4th year STVI students, monthly chapters and chapters of renewal of the Solemn Professed Friars, SNTH Spirituality session, General Assemblies and monthly film viewing of the Simplyprofessed Friars are held in the Colloqium Patricii. (Asp. Ramos)

COMMON ACTS from page 1

“FIESTA” by Fray Ian Geoffrey Kasilag, OSA chairmen, prepares activities that will motivate both the Collegium and Professorium to study the faith and to put it into practice. The first day of the weeklong celebration will kick off with a community fun run to be held in U.P. Campus. Fray Alvin John Salgado, OSA, chairman of the Sports and Socio-Cultural Committee underlines the benefit of a healthy mind and body that would bring us more closely to our inner being where the Divine Being in us dwells. For him, health means wealth, and we cannot give proper service to those entrusted to our care when we do not have a healthy mind and a healthy body. Likewise, Comical Skit, SACS MTV and Talent Showcase are parts of the activities of the Sports and Socio-Cultural Committee for the week-long fiesta celebration. The Committee on Information and Academic Affairs of the Collegium through its Committee Chairman, Aspirant Yurii Ramos, will organize a five-day symposium on Transcendental Philosophy. From August 19 to 23, students from STVI will enjoy once more the beauty of studies as part of their Augustinian formation. Nonetheless, the symposium is our response to what is stipulated in the Constitutions of the Order which states: “As our Holy Father Augustine teaches, studies constitute an excellent means of intellectual formation and the perfecting of human and religious life; foster community dialogue; equip us for a more adequate response to the apostolic mission entrusted to us by the Church,

which is responsible for the evangelization of culture. For this reason, the Order should be ready to offer the Church the service of her studies as a particular dimension of pastoral commitment” (Const. 124). In order to keep in touch with the values, teachings, and charism of the Order, the Committee on Publication and Education will spearhead the annual Augustinian Quiz Bee. Through this event, Augustinian formandi will be able to ruminate the Augustinianness of their vocation. Significantly, novena masses from August 19-26, 2013 will be held at the San Agustin Chapel to be presided over by the Augustinian priests assigned in SACS. On August 27, the feast of St. Monica, mother of Augustine, Rev. Fr. Aloysius Maria Aliňo, former parish priest of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel parish, will preside over the Mass. The highlight of the festival is the Solemnity of St. Augustine on August 28, 2013 with a Solemn Eucharistic Celebration. Of course, part of our Augustinian Tradition every after Eucharistic meal is the agape which allows all visitors and guests to experience “how good and how pleasant it is” to be with the Augustinians. The Food Committee of both the Professorium and the Collegium will organize this special event through which all guests will be welcomed as strangers no more. The week-long festival will be officially closed by Rev. Fr. Jose Rene Delariarte, OSA, through a thanksgiving Mass to be held on August 29, 2013.

sacsupdate vol. 14, no. 1 June to August 2013

Feast of Sts. Monica and Augustine

August 19-29, 2013 Theme: From Faith to Service: Augustine’s Steadfast Conviction Towards Holiness Schedule of Activities August 19 –

1st Day Novena Mass, 5:45 P.M Presider/Homilist: Rev. Fr. Fernando Cleopas, OSA Community Fun Run @ U.P Symposium on Transcending Thoughts by Dr. Arturo Perez (1:30 pm)

August 20 –

2nd Day Novena Mass, 5:45 P.M Presider/Homilist: Rev. Fr. Harold Langahin, OSA Symposium on Habermas on Religion and Rationality by Prof. Eduardo Valdez (2:00 pm)

August 21 –

3rd Day Novena Mass, 5:45 P.M Presider/Homilist: Rev. Fr. Nelson Zerda, OSA Symposium on St. Thomas Aquinas’ Metaphysics in the Service of Theology by Fr . Enrico Gonzales, OP (2:00 pm)

August 22 -

4th Day Novena Mass, 5:45 P.M Presider/Homilist: Rev. Fr. Erickson Borre, OSA Symposium on Two Sides of Karl Rahner’s Theological/Philosophical Thought: Implications for Psychology of Religion by Fr. John Paul Szura, OSA (2:00 pm)

August 23 -

5th Day Novena Mass, 5:45 P.M Presider/Homilist: Rev. Fr. Pacifico Nohara, OSA Symposium on Kahapon, Bukas, Ngayon: Ilang Pagmumuni tungkol sa panahon kasama si San Agustin by Prof. Michael Aurelio (2:00 pm) Comical Skit Competition (8:30 pm)

August 24 –

6th Day Novena Mass, 5:45 P.M Presider/Homilist: Rev. Fr. Michael Sequio, OSA Augustinian Quiz Bee (8:30 pm)

August 25 –

7th Day Novena Mass, 5:45 P.M Presider/Homilist: Rev. Fr. Iohannes Sedik, OSA

August 26 –

8th Day Novena Mass, 5:45 P.M Presider/Homilist: Fr. Jose Rene Delariarte, OSA

August 27 -

FEAST OF ST. MONICA, 5:45 P.M Presider/Homilist: Rev. Fr. Aloysius Maria Aliňo Chorale Competition (8:30 pm)

August 28 –

SOLEMNITY OF ST. AUGUSTINE, 5:30 P.M Agape cum Talent Showcase (6:30 pm)

August 29 -

THANKSGIVING MASS, 5:45 P.M Presider/Homilist: Fr. Jose Rene Delariarte, OSA

sacsupdate vol. 14, no. 1 June to August 2013

COMMON ACTS SACS Welcomes Fray Kim Chang

F22, 1976, Fray John, as we fondly call him, joined the Order in 1996 and received his first profession of vows on June 23, 2002. ray Kim Chang Ho John, OSA, of the Delegation of Korea, is here in SACS to study Theology and English. Born on March

He made his solemn profession of vows on September 10, 2006. Fray John said that he will stay in SACS for four years just in time to finish his theological course, which he plans to take at the CICM Maryhill School of Theology this coming second semester. Asked about his stay so far, he said that his big problem is his difficulty to communicate in English. With warmth Filipino hospitality, the Prior of the House, Fr. Jose Rene Delariarte officially introduced Fr. John to the community during the First General Assembly of the Simply-professed friars last June 2013. Maligayang Pagdating Po, Fray John! (Fray Cardos, OSA)

Frays Lendo, Reyes Made Solemn Profession

Aseminarians, family members round a hundred friends,

and solemn professed friars attended the Solemn Profession of Vows of Fray Elmer Lendo, OSA and Fray Ric Anthony Reyes, OSA last June 8, 2013 at the San Agustin Chapel. Presided by the Prior Provincial of the Augustinian Province of Sto. Niño de Cebu – Philippines, Fray

who had been their inspiration in their journey towards God. “I thank all of you for coming here and sharing with us the joy of celebrating this happy occasion of ours,” Fray Lendo said during his thanksgiving address after the Eucharistic Celebration. As a tradition, Obedience Notice is given by the Provincial Secretary after the rite of Solemn

TIDBITZ 1. In line with the theme Diakonia, the third year aspirants and postulants of the San Agustin Center of Studies are assigned to different areas and tasks for their annual apostolate. The third year aspirants are assigned in Baseco, Manila while the postulants are assigned in Bahay Consuelo in Novaliches. The purpose of this activity is to give an inspirational experience of how God touches the life of every people. (Asp. Potoy) 2. First Year Simply-professed Friars attended the 2013 JSF General Assembly last July 28, 2013 at the Claret School in Quezon City. Fray Reo Cabahug, OSA is the current JSF secretary and Fray Arvin Salceda is chosen as the OSA Representative. 3. Fray Ryan Pasabilla, OSA is elected President of the Iisang Samahan ng mga Agustinians (ISA). By sometime in November this year, the 11th ISA gathering will be held in SACS. 4. Last June 24, 2013, Simply-professed friars had their friendship game with the Camillians in Quezon City. Camillians and Augustinians played head-to-head against each other in Basketball and Volleyball tourneys. Meanwhile, the professorium community had a fun day with friars and formands of the Guadalupe Community as they celebrated the birthday of Fr. John Paul Mabanta, OSA.

(Top): Frays Lendo (R) and Reyes (L) prostrate before the altar while choir chant the Litany of the Saints. (Right): Dazzling faces of Frays Reyes (R) and Lendo (L) after the Solemn Profession of Vows.

Lendo and Fray Reyes accepted the joys and challenge that await them in their ministries. Respectively, the two are the 109th and the 110th solemnProfessed Friars of the Province in the span of 30 years of its existence for the service to the Church. “We are exactly 30 years old as a Province. What challenges us is the quality of service we give to the people of God entrusted to our care. This we express in the different apostolate of the Province,” Fr. Berdon said. Fray Lendo thanked all

Profession. Fray Lendo, having been a teacher before entering San Agustin Seminary in Guadalupe, is assigned to San Agustin-Mati Community, Davao del Norte. Fray Reyes, on the other hand, who used to be actively involved in SACS publication during his seminary years, and who is expert in mass media, is assigned to assist the Prior Provincial in the Provincialate Communtiy, Cebu City. They reported to their respective assignments last June 15, 2013. (Fray Baller, OSA).

5. Basketbal and Volleybal vasristy players of both the Professorium and the Collegium Communites attended the Opening Salvo of the 2013 Open League Tournament (OLT) on August 3, 2013 at the Our Lady of Angels Seminary. The OLT is a tournament which aims at promoting camaraderie and friendship. 6. Post. Keith Lawrence Ermac and Asp. Ronnel Ian Garcia joined the 2013 AGBAYAN (Annual Gathering for Building Augustinian Youth-Action Netwroking) held at the Sto. Niño Spirituality Center in Consolacion, Cebu from July 26 to 28, 2013. With them were student-leaders from different Augustinian Schools in the Philippines under the Augustinian Province of Sto. Niño de Cebu.

OPINION

sacsupdate vol. 14, no. 1 June to August 2013

EDITORIAL: “Betwixt and Between” Pope Francis’ Lumen Fidei is so magnificent; it captures the heart, to say the least, not only of those whose loyalty to the Church, despite her shortcomings, remain forever firm, but also of those whose faith has been tainted by scandals of Catholic authorities and hierarchies. Those who have read it will make sense of its message. Perhaps, Lumen Fidei will be considered as a saving grace to the Church today. The Church may have been insensitive, especially during the time in its history when it asserted itself to be the most powerful institution whose ‘divine’ origin should not be put in question, unless otherwise one wanted to found his/her own church. At some point, even today, that insensitivity is still manifested in the various scandals that come up to the open. We have heard stories of different versions how priests and even bishops engage themselves in pedophilia and other sexual misconducts. The astonishing issues of mismanagement and corruption in the Roman Curia that turned our head in confusion and disbelief may have made us hot and bothered. Thanks to Pope Francis who saves the situation; he has made us all hopeful that amidst all these, we can put a new face on our being- achurch today. True enough, it is seeing with the eyes of faith that will enable us to make sense of our being a Christian believer in the midst of these crises that challenge our own personal faith. So, for Francis, “Faith does not merely gaze at Jesus, but sees things as Jesus Himself sees them, with His own eyes;

it is a participation in His way of seeing (#18)”, says the encyclical. To all intents and purposes the good Pope would like somehow to appeal to us that faith in Jesus means seeing every situation as an opportunity to see Jesus in there. This is the same Jesus who promised his disciples to remain forever and ever in the Church He Himself had founded over two thousand years ago. And now, this same Jesus might be telling us, ‘Don’t be afraid! I am still in the Church. As promised, I will not leave you orphaned.’ Now the faith that allows us to see Jesus in all things “transforms the whole person precisely to the extent that he/she becomes open to love” (#26). Pope Francis himself has shown us the real meaning of this. News reverberated how he chose to wear simple white cassock and black shoes which he used to wear when he was still an archbishop in Argentina immediately after his election to the Papacy on March 13, 2013 (and up to now, he is consistently doing the same). After that, he joined other cardinals in a bus instead of riding in a luxurious papal vehicle going to their apartments. As of this writing, Pope Francis stays in Casa Santa Marta, a Vatican residence which accommodates visiting clergy and lay people, giving up the security and comfort of the official Papal residence. All these point to one thing: “True love unifies all the elements of our person and becomes a new light pointing the way to a great fulfilled life” (#27). He continues to admonish all bishops and priests in different parts of the world that the ‘poor church is for the poor.’ The poor church goes out

into the streets. It spreads the faith and recaptures the heart of those faithful in the most marginal of places, shanties and slums where it meets a family inside their home. This is what he really means when he says in the encyclical, “Persons always live in relationship. We come from others, we belong to others, and our lives are enlarged by our encounter with others” (#38). In the light of this ecclesiastical project of Pope Francis, the Augustinians in the Philippines, and in the world at large, are not spared to do the same. Come December 25, 2013, the Augustinian Province of Sto. Niňo de Cebu-Philippines will celebrate its 30th foundation Anniversary. With God’s grace, in the span of 30 years, the Province is able to produce more than a hundred Solemn Professed Friars, most of whom are in the ordained ministry. We are fortunate to have plenty of vocations in this part of the Order. Maybe, perhaps, this is the best time to reflect how do we become conscious on the call of the good Pope to be a poor church for the poor in our own context. Or, shall we say, the 30th foundation anniversary of the Province is an opportune time to go back to the root of our call to be Christians, first of all and, secondarily, to be Augustinians. Just as Pope Francis is able to manifest to the world the real meaning of Christianity, we too as Augustinians, are being mandated not to wear a poker’s face in the world that is thirsting for the gospel. We have to keep the pot boiling in living out the gospel. In the many apostolates of the Province (education, mission, retreats, formation, and so forth), it is

not advisable for us to drop like a hot potato what we can contribute to the Church. It has been written that “the Order’s sense of mission is an essential part of her identity and vocation. It is thus that apostolic activity, by which we intend to preach the Kingdom of God throughout the world and make all human beings partakers of his redemption, embraces our whole life, namely, prayer, study, and activity, in forms consistent with the nature and spirit of the Order” (Constitutions n. 144). Nonetheless, when we feel our inadequacy to participate in the mission of the Church as Augustinians, we must remember that “we are a wayfarer; we must be ready to let ourselves be led, to come out of ourselves and to find God of perpetual surprises” (#35). Betwixt and between. This is the challenge of Augustinian life. On one hand, we are called, by virtue of our spirituality to embrace community life from which charity begins, and on the other hand, it is our mission to “go to the outskirts” and let others feel how we are in love with our calling. We are honor bound nevertheless to look as far as the eyes can see the deeper meaning of the role of the Church today, right now! At the end, we will find ourselves, together with Pope Francis, crying out loud, “Faith teaches us to see that every man and woman represents a blessing for me, that the light of God’s face shines on me through the faces of my brothers and sisters” (#54). Who knows, we might offer an alternative answer to people who have not yet found God in their lives. 

“Be A Rebel of the Gospel:

Pope Francis’ Message to the Youth, A Message to All Believers” Fray Robert Lee Lingo, OSA The present Supreme Pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Francis paints a very unconventional image in my mind. An image of a person in a very important office but is not afraid to get down and dirty. Pope Francis’ projects an aura of a radical person, humble, sincere and authentic. His character does not fail to impress and inspire the Catholic flock. Just last month, Pope Francis’ unique style of shepherding the flock shone through in the preparation and celebration of the World Youth Day 2013 at Rio De Janeiro, Brazil. “I want to tell you something. What is that I expect as a consequence of World Youth Day? I want a mess. We knew that in Rio there

would be great disorder, but I want trouble in the dioceses! I want to see the church get closer to the people . I want to get rid of clericalism, the mundane, this closing ourselves, in our parishes, our schools or structures. Because these need to get out.”1 The Pope’s unusual message turned a lot of heads and raised many eyebrows in the Church. The Pope’s message can easily be misinterpreted or misunderstood therefore there is a need to see what the message truly conveys. The Pope seemingly promotes rebellion in his message and invites the youth to make a “mess.” But what he truly means is the exact opposite of the common understanding we get from his interesting play on words. The youth are

called to rebel and stand their ground against what is not right and unfaithful to the Catholic Church’s teaching. The young people are the hope of the church. They are the ones who will comprise the next generation of the faithful and eventually build up the church. However, they are also the one sector in society often neglected or overlooked because of their clamor for autonomy and independence. “He told youngsters to get out into the streets and spread their faith and make a “mess,” saying a church that doesn’t go out and preach simply becomes a civic or humanitarian group.”2 And so Pope Francis urges the youth to “shake” the church. He does so without

any intention of plunging the youth headfirst into blind idealism. The youth are not to become rebels without a cause trying to effect change through violence. The Holy Father desires that the young people become rebels with a cause, actively participating in the life of the church in their respective dioceses. The young people are to become the rebels of the Gospel of love spreading the faith in cooperation with their local churches. “Go and make disciples of all nations.” With these words, Jesus is speaking to each one of us, saying: “It was wonderful to take part in World Youth Day, to live the faith together with

continue to page 7

sacsupdate vol. 14, no. 1 June to August 2013 “REBEL” from page 6 young people from the four corners of the earth, but now you must go, now you must pass on this experience to others.” Jesus is calling you to be a disciple with a mission! Today, in the light of the word of God that we have heard, what is the Lord saying to us? Three simple ideas: Go, do not be afraid, and serve.”3 This message of Pope Francis is an encouragement to the youth-participants but upon closer inspection, it is the call and mission of all Christians. GO. The Pope sends the message of commitment to all believers, to commit in “making disciples of all nations.”4 A wholehearted dedication is needed in becoming a “disciple with a mission.”5 Christians of today are called more than ever to share their “joy of faith.6” Faith is challenged today by rampant materialism, consumerism, practical atheism and despair, believers are mandated to share their faith, to share Jesus.

OPINION DO NOT BE AFRAID. “Some people think: “I have no particular preparation, how can I go and proclaim the Gospel?” The faithful are often hesitant to share their faith because of fear. Fear to be confronted or to be asked about their faith, feeling their faith is not that deep or they are not “experts” of their faith. But the Pope retorts “when we proclaim Christ, it is he himself who goes before us and guides us. He always accompanies us.”7 A personal encounter with Jesus will dispel the cloud of fear inflaming one with courage and zeal for mission. The act of sharing then becomes a fearless endeavor for “Jesus is with us.”8 SERVE. “The life of Jesus is a life for others. It is a life of service. Evangelising means bearing personal witness to the love of God, it is overcoming our selfishness, it is serving by bending down to wash the feet or our brethren, as Jesus did.”9 Christianity is a religion of love. And everyone is called to witness to Gospel love, the love lived

by Christ himself. Witnessing is an effective from of preaching. What better way to preach than to preach through service and action making faith visible and tangible. Not only the youth are enlisted to serve the Lord. All Christians are called to serve and bear witness to Christ. Against the “culture of selfishness and individualism,”10 “the cult of money”11 and the “current of corruption”12 we are persuaded to rebel. The Pope’ message tells us to be a rebel of the Gospel. All believers must continue to be resisting and defiant to the ways of the world that oppose the will of God. During times when believers are pressured into conforming to the whims of the world, Jesus calls everyone to stand strong and stand firm rebel against all evil. “Be sober and vigilant. Your opponent the devil is prowling around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him steadfast in faith.” (NAB 1 Pet 5:8-9) 

Endnotes: ____________

1 http://newsinfo.inquirer. net/453569/rebel-pope-urges-youth-tomake-a-mess-in-dioceses#ixzz2bAEqkY15. Accessed August 15, 2013. 2 Ibid. 3 www.Vatican.vaPope Francis Full Text Homily for World Youth Day’s closing Mass July 28, 2013. . Accessed August 15, 2013. 4 Ibid. 5 Ibid. 6 Ibid. 7 Ibid. 8 Ibid. 9 Ibid. 10 http://enlightenedcatholicismcolkoch.blogspot.com/2013/07/pope-franciswants-catholic youths-to.html . Accessed August 15, 2013. 11 http://www2,mcleans. ca/2013/06/28/radical-in-white/. Accessed August 15, 2013. 12 Ibid.

Editorial STAFF

Hope for the Better Fray Jaime Silvestre C. Parmisano, OSA One of the important things we can share to the people today, especially in our country, is hope. In a time where we have to struggle with various problems we have in life, it is encouraging to know that there are changes happening for our wellbeing. After reading and hearing news of corruption, waste of public funds, injustices, and other news that make us doubt the government’s capacity to give us a better life, it is good to know that there are accomplished projects of the present administration for our better future. After losing our hope because of what happened in the past, it is inspiring to regain that hope because of what is happening today and of what is promised for tomorrow. I think this is what the President Aquino would like us to remember in his fourth State of the Nation of Address (SONA); that we can hope for the better. President Benigno S. Aquino III delivered his fourth annual State of the Nation Address, last July 22. Once again, the president presented his achievements last year and promises for the remaining years of his administration. His speech was in an encouraging tone. He presented his accomplishments both in political and economic aspects. He showed to the people that something is accomplished, that there are some positive changes in our country. In his speech, he also praised some public servants and government departments, giving us reason to believe on these changes. He did not fail to show his disappointments for some corrupt public servants and

erring government agencies. He still needs to cut some crooked branches. With accomplishments and some disappointments, he wanted us to believe that he can fulfill the rest of his promises before the end of his term. He ended his state of the nation of address with encouraging words, “at talagang napakasarap maging Pilipino sa panahong ito. (How wonderful it is to be a Filipino in these times).” These words expressed the message of the president. We can hope for a better Philippines. SONA 2013 of the president did not escape the scrutiny and dissatisfaction of some people. There are some important issues that the president failed to include in his address. Some citizen of the Philippines expected that president would include the “passage of Freedom of Information bill, amendment or repeal of Cybercrime Act, the P10 Billion pork scam” in his speech. Some also commented that the president failed to present some concrete plans on how he will lead us in his remaining years as a president. They believe that there is no ‘sense of the future’ in his speech. We cannot deny these lapses in his SONA. It is true that there are issues that the mouth of the president seems close. It is true that there are still many things that the president to take care. There are still lots of things to do in fixing that crooked way and make it straight. There is nothing wrong in being critical. There is nothing wrong in expressing our doubts and dissatisfaction but let not these lapses, these unfinished businesses be the reason for us to

stay dormant and be hopeless. The accomplishment of the administration may seem little for others, but let us not take it for granted. Let us move. Let these little accomplishments move us and give us strength to continue the positive changes. It will be unfair to expect everything to the administration. We have our role. We have to remember what the president said, “Huwag po sana nating kalimutan na ang pagkakataon ay punla lamang. Kailangan itong diligin ng sipag, alagaan ng determinasyon, at payabungin ng dedikasyon. (Let us not forget that these opportunities are but seeds. We must water them with diligence, nourish them with determination, and cultivate them with dedication.)” This is our reason for hope. The government gives us a chance to improve our lives by their projects and dedication to get rid of all diseases that our system of government has. This chance, little may it seems, must be nourished by our own efforts, by our desire for a better life lest it will not be wasted. As the president mentioned in his SONA, “ang maiiwan na lamang ay ang ayaw sumama, dahil hindi sinamantala ang pagkakataon. (The only ones who will be left behind are those who chose not to venture onwards with us, simply because they did not seize the opportunity.)” The president presented the seeds of hope. Let us take this chance. Let us help in making these seeds grow and be fruitful. Let us continue to cultivate our land that these seeds may grow and make our hope for a better life be concrete. 

Fray Rodel Magin, OSA

Editor-in-Chief

Asp. Yurii Ramos

Collegium Associate Editor Fray Jaime Silvestre Parmisano, OSA

Professorium Asssociate Editor Fray Genesis Labana, OSA

Lay-out Artist

SACS Mass Media Center Staff Fray Alvin John Salgado, OSA Fray Ric Anthony Reyes, OSA Fr. Arlon Vergara, OSA

Photographers

Mrs. Carmen Nietes English Consultant Fr. Nelson Zerda, OSA Fr. Jose Rene Delariarte, OSA

Moderators

For your feedbacks and suggestions e-mail us at: sacsstvi@gmail.com ©San Agustin Center of Studies (Order of Saint Augustine Province of Sto. Niño de Cebu – Philippines #1 Fisheries St., VASRA, Quezon City 1100, Philippines Tel. No.: +63 (02) 924-5001 Fax No.: (02) 924-0158 www.sacs-stvi.org sacsstvi@gmail.com Published by: SACS Mass Media Center Publications Printed by: Pacifico Manalili Printing Press

FEATURE

Meet the New Aspirants

sacsupdate vol. 14, no. 1 June to August 2013

FEATURE

SNTH Welcomes Eight Newly Simply Professed Friars by Fray Robert Lee D. Lingo, OSA photos by Fray Alvin John Salgado, OSA

“F

or this School-Year, I expect to have a wholistic and relevant formation that will transform me to become an adequate and effective religious.” This was the response of Fray Jubanie Rey F. Baller, OSA when asked about his expectation for the SY 2013-2014. Fray Florentino however does not expect for anything as he enters into the new level of his formation, “I lift everything to God and, as long as I do the tasks assigned to me, God will do the rest,” he said. At the opening of the formation year 2013-2014, the San Agustin Center of Studies-Saint Nicholas of Tolentine Hall (Professorium Community) welcomed into the seminary eight newly simply professed friars who just finished their novitiate in Cebu. Seven of whom came from STVH while one came from SAS-Guadalupe. Last June 2, 2013 the eight first year simply professed friars reported to the seminary, namely:

Fray James Carlo Mesina Atienza, OSA (San Pedro, Laguna)

Fray Fredie Camilo Billones, OSA (Sibonga, Cebu)

Fray Jubanie Rey Figeus Baller, OSA (Talisay City, Cebu)

Fray Mark Noveros Domasian, OSA (Prieto Diaz, Sorsogon)

Fray Jaime Silvestre Cubeta Parmisano, OSA (Panglao, Bohol)

Fray Christian Jhon Gumban Paspe, OSA (Dueñas, Iloilo);

Fray Armar Dondriano Poliquit, OSA (Carcar City, Cebu)

Fray Florentino Galo Palattao Revilla III, OSA (Malabon City, Manila).

When asked about their expectation as new members of the SNTH community, Fray Poliquit said he looks forward to have fruitful and enjoyable theological studies. He said, “I’m looking forward to be a model of humble service in the community.” Fray Domasian, on the other hand believed that his stay in SNTH as his new community will bring him to fruitfulness and fidelity to God’s call to serve. He said, “For this school year, I will continue searching a meaningful religious life with my brothers and friends in the community.” Frays Billones, Domasian and Poliquit are now studying at the CICM Maryhill School of Theology while the rest of the batch study at the Recoletos School of Theology.

PROFESSORIUM

SP Friars Train in Housekeeping

Mand his students, Ms. r.

Francis

Rosalda

Pearl Jamaldin and Mr.Timothy Mendoza, of the Philippine Women’s University (PWU) facilitated a seminar-workshop on Housekeeping to the Simplyprofessed Friars last July 23, 2013at the Colloqium Patricii, Sta. Monica Hall. Organized by the Committee on Maintenance and Sanitation of SNTH community, the seminarworkshop aimed at training the Simply-professed friars how to clean and organize thoroughly not only their respective rooms but also the whole seminary. Drawing from this year’s formation thrust Diakonia, Fray Jefferson Labadan, OSA, Chairman of the Committee on Maintenance and Sanitation would like to inculcate among the members of the SNTH community that service should start from the community -- a kind of service that comes from a heart that is pure. And to express this outwardly, Fray Labadan believed that our capacity to put order and to clean thoroughly our house is a kind of service that leads us to godliness. To make this possible, Mr. Rosalda spent the first part of the workshop on theoretical matters about housekeeping. He began by saying that in every hotel, “housekeeping is the department that deals essentially with cleanliness and the maintenance of a hotel.” The last part of the workshop was the practicum wherein the facilitators showed to the friar participants the proper way of cleaning CRs and rooms. They also taught them how to arrange bed linens properly. (Fray Atienza, OSA)

sacsupdate vol. 14, no. 1 June to August 2013

“INSTALLED” [from page 1]

The following were installed to the minor ministries: LECTORATE Fray Jefferson Labadan, OSA Fray Alvin John Salgado, OSA B. ACOLYTATE Fray Reo Cabahug, OSA Fray Peter Cantones, Jr., OSA Fray Peter John Cardos, OSA Fray Christian Funtanares, OSA Fray Ian Geoffrey Kasilag, OSA Fray Rodel Magin, OSA Fray Wendell Allan Marinay, OSA Fray John Ion Miranda, OSA Fray Peter Cantones, OSA Fray Cyril Jeth Tagalog, OSA receives the paten and Fray Julius Tubid, OSA the chalice from the Prior Fray Melitito Pochollo Visda, Jr., OSA Provincial. A.

In an orientation given by Rev. Fr. John Paul Mabanta, OSA, the Provincial Liturgist of the Augustinian Province of Sto. Niňo de Cebu-Philippines on July 18, 2013, the newly installed lectors and acolytes were admonished to have “a firm will to give faithful service to God and the Christian people,” in as much as these two ministries, as Fr. Mabanta quoting Paul VI’s Ministeria Quaedam, said, “though they differ from one another in essence and not only in degree, are nonetheless interrelated: each of these in its own special way is a sharing in the priesthood of Christ.” “Lectors are appointed to read the word of God in the liturgical assembly, while acolytes are to attend to the service of the altar and to assist the deacon and the priest in liturgical celebrations, especially in the celebration of the Mass,” said Fr. Mabanta as he explained the Ministeria Quaedam. (Fray Tagalog, OSA)

SP Friars Begin Apostolate

Ccommunity of brothers, who live harmoniously in their house, united by ommunity is the axis around which Augustinian religious life turns: a

single soul and a single heart, seeking God together and open to the service of the Church (IGC 2010, 28; cf. Rule 1.3). Hence, apostolate is the fruit of our community life inasmuch as the community is our first apostolate. It is indeed an integral part of our religious life as Augustinians. As part of our religious formation, we, simply-professed friars, are assigned to different apostolate areas like socio-pastoral and educational apostolate. The assignment varies every year so that each friar has the privilege to experience being assigned to other areas of apostolate. The following is the assignment of apostolate for this formation year 2013-2014.

TAYUMAN (Home for the aged, abandoned and destitute) Fray Ryan Pasabilla, OSA Fray Ian Geoffrey Kasilag,OSA Fray Reo Cabahug, OSA Fray Robert Lee Lingo, OSA

V. LUNA HOSPITAL Fray Rodel Magin, OSA Fray Cyril Jeth Tagalog, OSA Fray Arvin Salceda, OSA Fray Melitito Pocholo Visda, Jr., OSA Fray Christian Funtanares, OSA

TMMR (Orphanage) Fray Julius Tubid, OSA Fray John Ion Miranda, OSA Fray Peter John Cardos, OSA Fray Alvin John Salgado, OSA Fray Mark Anthony Tampos, OSA

B.E.C- Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish All First Year Simply-professed Friars SACS Personnel Fray Wendell Allan Marinay, OSA (Fray Cantones, Jr., OSA)

HIMLAYAN(B.E.C) Fray Peter Cantones Jr.,OSA Fray Genesis Labana, OSA Fray Edmar Escobar, OSA Fray Jefferson Labadan, OSA

sacsupdate vol. 14, no. 1 June to August 2013

15 Seminarians Accepted to Postulancy

Oaccepted fifteen aspirants into the level of postulancy.

n June 30, 2013, the San Agustin Center of Studies community Postulancy is a preparation for the novitiate level as well as the culminating year of their four years of studying philosophy in the Saint Thomas of Villanova Institute. The rite of acceptance was celebrated during the celebration of the Holy Eucharist. The Master of the Postulants, Rev. Fr. Michael Alvin G. Sequio, OSA, presented the candidates to Rev. Fr. Jose Rene Delariarte, OSA, House Prior who was the mass presider. The newly accepted postulants are:

Newly-accepted postulants of the Province during the Eucharistic Celebration on June 30, 2013.

Post. Almerez, Jules Van V. Post. Ampatin, Jomar A. Post. Anildes, Roner M. Post. Comon, James Joseph S. Post. Cutamora, Ryan R. Post. Dosdos, Allan Martin II A. Post. Ermac, Keith Lawrence J. Post. Fortes, John Melvin G. Post. Generales, Wilfredo III C. Post. Jugarap, Jebie U. Post. Maghanoy, Anthony L. Post. Pepito, Marlito Jr. M. Post. Sumarago, Francis B. Post. Tagalog, Decastro E. Post. Zamudio, Jesusito Jr. M.

COLLEGIUM

Estaca, Compostela, Cebu Manganese, Basdio, Guindulman, Bohol Lebak, Sultan Kudarat Del Carmen, Siargao Is., Surigao del Norte Pitogo, Pres. Carlos P. Garcia, Bohol Dakit, Bogo City, Cebu Brgy. Jugan, Consolacion, Cebu Sabang, Bulusan, Sorsogon Isabela, Negros Occidental Pitogo, Pres. Carlos P. Garcia, Bohol Sta. Fe, Alburquerque, Bohol Poblacion, Tabogon, Cebu Maasin, Camoboan, Tabogon, Cebu Mohon, Talisay City, Cebu San Jose, Navotas City

(Post. Comon)

Post. Ermac Elected Over-all Decano

Telecting the new set of officers for the executive committee and the he Saint Thomas of Villanova Hall began its new formation year by

chairmen for the different committees. The election was held on June 6, 2013 at the St. Thomas of Villanova Multipurpose Hall. The first part of the elections was facilitated by Rev. Fr. Michael Alvin Sequio, OSA, Master of Postulants. This part of the election was done through secret balloting. The elected officers are Post. Keith Lawrence Ermac as the new College Decano, Post. Roner Anildes as the College Vice-Decano, and Post. Jules Van Almerez as the College Secretary. Post. Ermac, being the newly elected decano, took over the election for the chairmen of the different committees. The election was done viva voce. The newly elected chairmen are: Asp. Ruzzel James Lanes Asp. John Agustin Bigcas Asp. Yurii Ramos Asp. Genesis Carpio Asp. Alejandro Ventura III Asp. James Alibong Jr. Asp. Josef Ismael Laude Asp. Angelo A単ana Asp. Van Empasis Asp. Vernan Rey Potoy Asp. Roy Albert Echeveria Asp. Ni単o Jerry Basaca Asp. Jao de Asis Asp. Ronnel Ian Garcia

: Sacred Liturgy Committee : Food Committee : Info. and Academic Affairs Com. : Sanitation Committee : Music Committee : Infirmary Committee : Computer Committee : Sports Committee : Maintenance Committee : Apostolate Committee : Socio-Cultural Committee : Environmental Concerns Com. : Recollection Committee : Vocation Committee

The different batches elected also their respective decanos and vice-decanos. First Year Decano : Asp. Jorico Petilla Vice-Decano: Asp. Eufevio Barrica Second Year Decano: Asp. Arjie Santosidad Vice-Decano: Asp. Reden Lequin Third Year Decano: Asp. James Alibong Jr. Vice-Decano: Asp. Yurii Ramos Fourth Year Decano: Post. Jesusito Zamudio Jr. Vice-Decano: Post. Anthony Maghanoy The newly-elected officers of St. Thomas of Villanova Hall were inducted together with the newly-elected officers of the St. Nicolas of Tolentine Hall during the Mass of the Holy Spirit on June 12, 2013 at the STVI Chapel. Rev. Fr. Jose Rene C. Delariarte, OSA, Prior of the Hous was the celebrant - homilist of the mass. (Asp. Garcia)

Independence Day Celebrated

very year we Filipinos celebrate Independence Day, as commemoration for the heroic deeds of Filipinos who sacrificed their lives for the freedom of our country. Last June 12, 2013, the college students together with the Simplyand Solemn-professed Friars celebrated Philippine Independence day. The first year Aspirants were the highlight of the event. At 7:15 in the morning, in the front of the receiving hall of STVI, the program started. The whole Collegium and Professorium witnessed a breath-taking performance of the first year. They portrayed in their presentation the heroic deeds of our national heroes during colonialism. They showed the image of true Filipinos. Their presentation ended singing the Philippine National Anthem, with an exchange of smiles having the pride of being Filipinos. (Asp.Gilbuena)

Newly-elected STVH officers sworn an oath of commitment before the House Prior during the Mass of the Holy Spirit on June 12, 2013.

COMMON ACTS

sacsupdate vol. 14, no. 1 June to August 2013

“DIAKONIA” [from Page 1]

Augustinians, from the beginning of their existence, are called to be servants of the Church. For him, this year’s thrust highlights the intensity of doing service to the people of God through apostolate in the various areas where the San Agustin Center of Studies community is involved in. Fr. Jose Rene Delariarte, OSA, Prior of the House, in his orientation on this thrust with the Simply-professed Friars last June 5, 2013, brought to light the biblical significance of Diakonia, both in the Old and New Testaments. Fr. Delariarte reiterated that Diakonia is a ministry that is not only reserved to deacons and priests. Looking at it from the bigger perspective of Christian life, service means to be always available for the service of those who are in need especially the poor and the hopeless. During the First General Assembly of the Simply-professed Friars held last June 5-9, 2013, Fr. Zerda made a big challenge to the whole assembly. He said, “If Diakonia is an act of healing and reconciling, binding up wounds and bridging chasm and restoring health, then, we as Augustinians, being of service to the Church, are much more expected to restore the integrity and mutuality of each person in the community and in the areas where we serve.” In order to take this challenge as an inspiration to the Simply-professed friars, the Executive Committee of the St. Nicholas of Tolentine Hall, headed by Fray Robert Lee D. Lingo, OSA as Decano, Fray Mark Anthony C. Tampos, OSA, as Vice – Decano, and Fray Melitito Pocholo C. Visda Jr., OSA as Secretary, designed a one-year program from which all seminary activities are anchored. Thrust: Diakonia Theme: Building up a caring community for the service of humanity. Vision: We envision to be servant-leaders grounded on the leadership of Jesus of Nazareth who came “not to be served but to serve.” (cfr. Matthew 20:28) Mission: 1. To make a thorough grounding in the classic Church leadership according to the Sacred Scriptures and to the Augustinian traditions. 2. To identify one’s particular skills and aptitudes and to encourage their use in the community and in our apostolate. 3. To grow daily in our commitment to God, the Church and the Order as we serve and lead those under our apostolate area to Christ, our model of service. (cfr. OSAAP intercession) Objectives: 1. To instill among the brothers the commitment to put into practice the message of the gospel value. 2. To inspire and be inspired by the people we encounter through our various apostolates. 3. To be faithful to our apostolate as an integral part of our religious life. (cfr. Augustinian Family Intercessions) Fray Robert Lee Lingo, OSA, professorium over-all decano articulated that the theme “Building up a caring community for the service of humanity,” was rightly chosen because it is important to take care of, first and foremost, each member of the community so that we could share what we have to the different areas of apostolate. “Nemo dat quod non habet,” says Fray Lingo. “The care which we received within our community should reflect the way we relate to people entrusted to us,” he continued. “Service without a touch of care would make us all NGO’s who just do what is expected from them. Basically, our life is a life of service rooted in the love of God,” Fray Lingo concluded. Fr. Michael Sequio, OSA, Master of the Postulants, in his opening remarks during the acquaintance party held last June 12, 2013 noted that Diakonia does not only mean loving the rules and regulations of the seminary. Beyond that is a heart of each member who loves and cares for a fellow member. “We do not need to love the community; what we need is to love each member of the community,” Fr. Sequio asserted. To assist the ExeCom in implementing the seminary programs, the following were elected and appointed to different offices: BATCH DECANOS First Year: Fray Fredie C. Billones, OSA Second Year: Fray Alvin John V. Salgado, OSA Third Year: Fray Wendell Allan A. Marinay, OSA Vice – Decano: Fray Ian Geoffrey D. Kasilag, OSA Fourth Year: Fray Julius D. Tubid, OSA

FOOD AND INFIRMARY: SACRED LITURGY AND MUSIC: SPORTS AND SOCIO-CULTURAL: VOCATION AND SPIRITUALITY: MISSION AND APOSTOLATE: EDUCATION AND PUBLICATION: SANITATION AND MAINTENANCE: (Fray Visda, Jr., OSA)

Fray Christian E. Funtanares, OSA Fray Cyril Jeth N. Tagalog, OSA Fray Alvin John V. Salgado, OSA Fray Reo G. Cabahug, OSA Fray Peter S. Cantones, OSA Fray Rodel D. Magin, OSA Fray Jefferson B. Labadan, OSA