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Vol. IX No. 2
Hinulugan Taktak Road, Fairmount Hills Subd. Antipolo City
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Ma f the ss 20 Me 08 dia & 20 Aw 11 ar ds
March 2012
photo credit: mikiboi
From the Editor:
Our theme for this issue is new life and new beginnings because as humans, so prone to sin and err, we start over and over again in living Christ and sharing Christ. We must continue to struggle everyday to keep the faith and renew our relationship with God. One does not quit when things do not go our way. It doesn’t matter how many times we fall. What matters is the number of times we get up.
Issue Highlights:
The Small Voice within. Being Benedict From Porn sites to Christ’s Light Simoy ng Fiesta and more!! as of March 17, 2012
Excavation for ramp is on full speed. Thanks to the generosity of people for lending machinery.
Church construction completion is being fast-tracked!
The construction committee is aiming to complete the construction of the roof, main ramp and railing of our church by JUNE this year, in time for the Pastoral Visit on June 10, 2012. We need ALL the HELP to make this possible. continued on page 3
Maging kakaibang Kristiyano! Ang Live Christ, Share Christ Seminar(LCSC) ni Maria Martha Lazaro
“You’ve
seen one, you’ve seen them all.” Parepareho lang sila. Iyan ang iniisip ko nang marinig ko na may magaganap na namang Christian Life Seminar, ang LCSC, para sa mga naglilingkod sa PIHM; Ngunit nais ko ring manariwa ang aking pananampalataya; at kung bubuksan ko ang aking puso at isip, may ipagkakaloob sa akin ang Diyos. Bukod pa dito, sabik na sabik akong makasamba sa paraang karismatik; kaya ako’y sumali na rin noong 28-29 ng Enero sa St. Michael. Laking sorpresa! Kay ganda ng seminar. Maraming aspetong kahanga-hanga. 1) Pinayaman, pinalawak at pinuno ng mga pagpapahalaga na hango sa Salita ng Diyos. Napapanahon ang mga paksa sa kalagayan ng mga tao sa lahat ng dako ng daigdig; at akma sa gulang ng mga pangunahing puntos ay maayos, lohikal at malinaw. 3) Ang pagbabahagi sa maliit na pangkat ay nagmulat ng mga mata sa sariling kalagayang espiritwal, sa, tu-
long ng mga nakahandang tanong. 4) Ang mga nag-salita at namuno ng mga awit ay pawang buhay na buhay, lalo na si Brother Frank Padilla, ang pinuno ng LCSC na tunay na may pagmamahal sa Diyos ang pakikitungo sa kapwa Malalim at matatag ang kanilang pananalig sa kanilang misyon kaya’t sila’y kapani-paniwala. 5)Ang masiglang pagpuri at pag-awit sa Diyos sa pagbubukas ng bawat panayam ay kalugod lugod sa Kanya at nagpaligaya sa amin. 6) Ang mga gagawin pagkatapos ng mga seminar ay makabubuti para sa tuloy tuloy na paglago ng pananampalataya, pagmamahal at pagasa. Sa pambungad na salita, nilarawan ang nakalulungkot na sitwasyon ng PIlipinas, Asya at mundo: katiwalian, karahasan, giyera at terrorismo. Nandiyan ang gutom, sakit, takot, depresyon, kawalan ng paniniwala sa Diyos. Laganap ang alak, droga, at pagkawatakwatak ng pamilya.Tila walang katapusan ang lamig na continued on page 7
January 2012
Simoy ng Fiesta
The Small Voice
from Within
ni Carina Salvador
by Francesca Montes
T
here is something about this man, I thought to myself as I sat right across Monsignor Pete at the SAIDI Formation Center. I watched out for my posture, my knees stiffly angled, my palms arranged squarely Msgr. Pete, founder of Servi Mariae on my lap, epitomizing Regina Apostolorum ( Servants of how close proximity to a Mary Queen of Apostles) tangible product of God’s grace may make us want to exude the same aura; while he sat there, comfortably, making the feat seem effortless. Throughout our brief encounter, he was speaking, smiling, and sitting, engulfed by nothing but peace. He is a man of peace. Servi Mariae Regina Apostolorum One would expect this calm demeanor from one who has lived an exceptionally smooth-sailing life, but with Monsignor, it was the opposite. Like any human being, the trials he faced brought him his moments of doubt. In 2001, he started Servi Mariae Regina Apostolorum (Servants of Mary Queen of Apostles) in Antipolo, a congregation of men whose purpose is “the perfection of spiritual life in holiness and integrity after our Lord Jesus Christ and as modeled by our Blessed Mother:” a bold response to the continued on page 7 as of March 2, 2012
The Sanctuary bench will also support the glass at the back of the sanctuary is being constructed. is already being constructed.
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It’s PIHM time! (YES! Hindi ka nagkakamali, fiesta na naman ulit!) Ang panahon para sa ating parokya; ang araw ng walang humpay na kasiyahan, palaro at kantahan.(This is it!) Sa darating na Hunyo 16-17, 2012 ay ipagdiriwang ang fiesta ng Parish of Immaculate Heart of Mary (PIHM) na may temang “Panginoon, Pamilya, Pamayanan…Pagbuklurin ang Pamilya at Pamayanan sa Gabay ni Hesus at Inang Maria”.Ang punong Hermana ay ang St. Andrew Community, komunidad ng Bankers. Halina at makilahok sa iba’t-ibang ‘pakulo’ na hindi lang SAYA ang hatid sa bawat isa kundi DAAN patungo kay Inang Maria. Markahan na ang iyong kalendaryo at sabay-sabay nating abangan ang mga sumusunod:
Breakfast Little Miss BAZAAR
PIHM’s first fun-run!
Family
Bible Quiz Bee
PIHM
Isang buhay
Isabuhay! A cosplay of the lives of Saints
Church Construction FUNDs Report
Church construction completion is being fast-tracked!
(from page 1)
Construction Updates: • The excavation of the Archbishop’s Walk (the main ramp that connects our church) is ongoing. • The Sanctuary bench which will also support the glass at the back of the sanctuary is being constructed. • Fabrication and installation of the railings are ongoing. We have come a long way but we still have to raise more funds for the ramp, roof, skylight, flooring, lighting to finish our Church. Let us make it happen. Be PART of it by:
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Supporting the Kubo ni Maria Sunday bazaar! A percentage will help our church. Buying the “I choose to stay connected” Marian tshirt. For P250, you get to help build our church PLUS get this cool Marian tee. Now in new colors: black and white versions. Text 0917-8458957 for inquiries. Joining PIHM’s first-ever fun run on June 16, 2012. To JOIN, text 0917-5374176.
A new ministry to smile abphoyut.
The Parish Media Ministry will be forming PIHM’s The Photogra Photography sub! rn bo is y tr is in Ministry. Its main sub-m objective is to capture our parish in action and encourage sharing one’s talent for photography for His greater Glory. Members will be assigned to cover parish and ministry events. In line with this, a one-day hands-on Photography Workshop, entitled “PIHM: Infocus” will be held on May 1, 2012, Tuesday at the Parish grounds. Mr. Guj Tungpalan himself, the man behind the success of Red Sheep Photography (http://redsheepphotocinema.com) will be giving tips and techniques on daylight photography.Registration Fee is P1,000. Text 0917-8572710 for inquiries. Limited slots are available. Priority will be given to parishioners willing to be members of the PIHM Photography sub-Ministry. Join the PHOTOGRAPHY MINISTRY! Text 0917-8572710 for more details :).
Journey with us in reflection as we celebrate the Lenten Season! March 30 Lenten Recollection: LiveChrist, ShareChrist
Speaker: Rev. Fr. George Lucas T. Britos, S.V.D Professor of theology at Sienna College 6:00 PM Bana l na Misa 7:00 PM Recollection Proper (at the Parish)
April 1 Palm Sunday (Linggo ng Palaspas)
10:00 AM Misa ng Paggunita sa Maringal na Pagpasok ni Hesus sa Jerusalem. (Assembly: Fairmount Clubhouse HILL - simula ng Misa) Pagbabasbas ng mga Palaspas Prusisyon mula Fairmount clubhouse tungo sa Simbahan ng Parokya Pagpapatuloy ng Misa sa SIMBAHAN 5:30 PM Pagdiriwang ng Banal na Misa (in English)
April 2-3 Holy Monday (Lunes Santo)&
Holy Tuesday (Martes Santo)
7:00 AM Misa sa Parokya 4:00 PM Misa sa VIA DOLOROSA, Pinagmisahan
April 4 Holy Wednesday (Miyerkules Santo)
7:00 AM Misa sa Parokya 4:00- 6:00 PM Stations of the Cross (within the Parish) 6:30 PM Misa sa Parokya
April 5 Holy Thursday (Huwebes Santo)
6:00 AM Chrism Mass (Antipolo Cathedral) 9:00 AM General Rehearsal for Paschal Triduum Liturgy (for involved parish workers) 4:30 PM Pagmimisa sa Pagtatakipsilim sa Paghahapunan ng Panginoon Paghuhugas ng mga Paa Prusisyon ng Banal na Sakramento
Eucharistic Vigil
April 6 Good Friday (Biyernes Santo) Daan ng Krus sa Bukang Liwayway
(Daybreak Stations of the Cross) 4:30 AM Assembly at Assumption 5:00 AM Start of Stations of the Cross * will end at the Parish grounds 3:00 PM Pagdiriwang sa Pagpapakasakit ng Panginoon
April 7 Black Saturday (Sabado de Gloria) 9:30 PM Easter Vigil Mass Trentang Gitara para sa Kanya
(Guitar Orchestra)
**Traditional Salubong will follow after the Mass ** Please wear white and bring a candle.
April 8 Easter Sunday (Linggo ng Pasko ng Muling
Pagkabuhay)
10:30 AM Easter Sunday Mass (Tagalog) 5:30 PM Easter Sunday Mass (English)
April 15 Divine Mercy Sunday
3:00 PM simula ng prusisyon (Assumption Antipolo) 5:30 PM Divine Mercy Sunday Mass (English)
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by Min C. Arellano
Old and yet Renewed
The New Translation of the Roman Missal (NTRM) (Part 2 of 2)
Q- So why change the words in the translation of the Roman Missal? Do words matter? Isn’t the heart primarily the heart of the matter during the Holy Mass? A- Yes, in worship, the inner sense of God’s love and His presence is most desirable, and the joy that comes with it incomparable; but this doesn’t make the words (their meaning and our understanding of them) of little or of no importance. At the Holy Mass, God speaks to us through words; and we respond to Him in words. Changing words for the NTRM is not done merely for the sake of change. Words form, teach, encourage us and affirm our beliefs, express our expectations and enliven our hope. In time, they need to be revised to enhance these functions and the Church undertakes the long and tedious process of reviewing, studying and seeing to the faithfulness of the translations.
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“The NTRM takes us to a different time and place. Its words have a reverent tone essential in worship.”
Q- Words, words, words! I have yet to be convinced. A- Patience, friend. Notice how over the past decades, communication has become impersonal and informal; our speech, fast and terse? Relationships have become casual and shallow, no doubt partly due to the dying art of choosing our words carefully and listening to others attentively. Words are rashly, bluntly spoken or typed hastily and dispatched quickly; and our daily life is flooded with “sound bites, instant messages and tweets” The NTRM takes us to a different time and place. Its words have a reverent tone essential in worship. Having been brought much closer to the original texts traced all the way back to the Last Supper, NTRM lead us to a deeper sense of sacredness and to more serious reflections. To illustrate: In the Penitential Rite, the NTRM invites us to true sorrow for our sins by repetition: “through my fault, through my most grievous fault.” The emphasis should make us more conscious of our being sinners in humble need of God’s mercy and in earnest hope of conversion. It tells us never to lose the sense of sin so that we may walk steadfastly along the right path.
In the Gloria is the promise of “peace to men of good will.” This qualified in the NTRM: “and on earth peace to men of good will.” This is to stress God’s incredible benevolence in sending us His only Son that, ultimately, we might enjoy eternal peace with Him. “Good will” is also interpreted thus: “on whom his favor rests.” In the Consecration, “cup” is changed to “chalice,” becoming eminently more faith and prayer inducing, since it is associated with divine worship. Instead of “It will be shed for you and for all” we shall hear: “It will be poured out for you and for many.” “Poured out” evokes not only sacrifice, but also a total, generous self-giving. “For many” reminds us that while God truly loves everyone and Christ died for all, we must be warned that even after saying yes, we still have to “work our salvation in fear and trembling” (Phil 2:12) through active faith. (Ja 2:17)
Q- But what do we need the NTRM for? According to authorities, it is preferable to hear and listen to prayers and proclamations instead of reading along with the priest. Doesn’t this make the NTRM superfluous or unnecessary? continued on page 10
E
sther de Waal, who seeks God herself, showed in the book “Seeking God: The Way of St. Benedict” how the Rule of St. Benedict can be an inspiration and a guide to an ordinary lay Christian. During her childhood, she lived in a former Benedictine priory, and today, she is a mother of four trying to follow the Rule of St Benedict as a Benedictine Oblate(dedicated to God’s service) in the midst of a busy, complicated, and stressful life. Herein are excerpts from “Seeking God”. Imagine St. Benedict right at the start of the Rule with the image of the crowded marketplace and the Lord calling loudly to anyone who cares to stop and listen. The call is meant for each one of us, just like these calls from the Bible: 1) Moses alone in the desert, 2) Samuel dragged out of sleep, 3) Simon and Andrew, James and John were mending their nets when Jesus called. The stories of “the call” experienced by modern Benedictines are often quite ordinary, surprisingly commonplace. The very first word of the Rule is ‘listen’. It involves a reverent, ready, humble way of listening. St. Benedict’s take on listening is the listening of the whole person, of body as well as intellect and it requires love. It also involves mindfulness, an awareness which turns listening from a cerebral activity into a living response. It means that we have to listen whether we like it or not, whether what we hear is actually disagreeable or threatening. Don’t turn a deaf ear to the many unexpected and perhaps unacceptable ways in which God is trying to reach us. To listen closely, with every fiber of our being, at every moment of the day, is one of the most difficult things in the world, and yet it is essential if we mean to find the
B
eing
enedict (First of Three Parts) By Tess P. Mapa
God we seek. The question is, are we prepared to act on what we hear? If we hear and do nothing, then the sounds have simply fallen on deaf ears. St. Benedict established in the Rule that we go to God by the road of obedience. It is clearly stated in his Prologue: ‘The labor of obedience will bring you back to him from whom you had drifted through the sloth of disobedience. This is for you then if you are ready to give up your own will, once and for all, and armed with the strong and noble weapons of obedience to do battle for the true King, Christ the Lord.’ The second step in humility, St Benedict asks that ‘a man loves not his own will nor takes pleasure in the satisfaction of his desires; rather he shall imitate by his actions the saying of the Lord, I have come not to do my own will, but the will of him who sent me.’
Seeking God
In an age of bestselling paperbacks offering attractive ways to God through every conceivable means, the Rule stands firm in its relentless demand that we listen to the Word, that we never fail to remember that the Word remains our point of reference. The Rule must become the environment in which the disciple has to live, to struggle and to suffer. It sets out to be the guide to Christian living in the practical situations of daily life. The wisdom of its provisions cannot be appreciated until they have been lived.
Photo credit: Heart Art, A heartspace art, Monastery of Transfiguration, Malaybalay Bukidnon Philippines 8700
Today, those who follow it in a monastic community are doing so day by day. For us living outside the enclosure and like the novice, we are truly seeking God – we also turn to St. Benedict to draw inspiration from a great saint and one of the greatest creative writers of all time.
A Push for
Peace.
Let us join MTK (Mga Tagatulak ng Kapayapaan) in promoting the country’s national acceptance of Christ’s peace in preparation for the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines, which is 10 years from now. How? Most Rev. Broderick Pabillo, D.D. shares in his letter of appeal that, “as Christians, we must accept, individually and as a nation, Christ’s Peace, live it, and nurture it through love,truth,justice, reconciliation and active nonviolence. Peace without Christ is incomplete and false.” MTK is is also disseminating cost-free stickers for public display 5 continued on page 6
No. 33
March 2012
photo credit: cyndymc(virtual tourist)
A chance to help a
convert
The Hinulugan Takta k i n a l l i t s sudsy glory
hen I am in a different part of the country and someone of my age learns where I am from, chances are, he will say that his parents brought him to Hinulugan Taktak when he was a small boy.
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the water that flows to Hinulugan Taktak. We are going to increase awareness and care for the river by starting off a photo campaign for Taktak’s tributaries (stream or river that flows into a main stem or parent river or a lake). Watch out for the details! Below is a sketch of the tributaries of Taktak. It appears that Taktak is affected by the existing Antipolo Public Market and shall also be affected by the market
river
being constructed in its new site. We need to ensure that proper waste water treatment and waste disposal are implemented in these areas. Let us give Hinulugan Taktak one more chance. Watch out for the launching of more projects for this effort. As the deer panteth for the waters so my soul longeth after Thee.. You alone are my hearts desire and I long to worship thee.
If you have been to Taktak Falls lately, you know that it is a place that does not smell good. Now you will have an opportunity to be involved in the first step of its conversion: awareness of what is being thrown or drained into the river.
LEGEND Hinulugan Taktak flow roads
To many in the city, they may not be aware that the ‘creek’ behind their home or workplace supplies
the Join DESK ECOu-r Parish of o
Our Parish formed a new subministry, the ECO-DESK.The ministry aims to promote ecological awareness and stewardship in our parish.
Be a VOLUNTEER, help make a change before its too late! Text 0920-9242140 to 6 JOIN!
A Push for Peace.
(from page 5)
in order to raise public awareness in promoting Christ’s peace. “I accept Christ’s Peace. I pledge to nurture it. Kung walang baril walang mababaril”, it says. Feel free to get one from the parish office and post on your cars and/or public places and most importantly, live by what it says. For sticker inquiries, call 696-4387
Maging kakaibang Kristiyano!
(from page 1)
bumabalot sa ating mga lipunan. May pagasa pa ba? Salamat sa Diyos: sa gitna ng karimlan, may pagasa: ANG DIYOS ANG PAGASA. SI KRISTO ANG PAGASA. TAYONG LAHAT ANG PAGASA. Tinalakay ang mga katotohanan tungkol sa Diyos, kay Kristo at ang mga pamamaraan na dapat sundin upang maging bago at buhay na Kristyano. Sa LCSC ko naramdaman ang tunay at mahigpit na pangangailangan, (sense of urgency)ng pagbabago sa sarili. Ipinamalas dito na kulang pa ang ginagawa ng marami kung kaya’t ang kapwa nating Kristyano ay dapat gisingin upang makagising din sila ng higit na marami pa. Ang bagong espiritung natanggap ko ay hindi dapat solohin, bagkus, maging lebadura para sa pagbabago ng iba. Walang imposible sa Diyos.
The Small Voice
from Within
Matatamo din unti-unti ang panaginip: kakaibang Kristyano; banal; buhay, naglilingkod sa Diyos at sa kapwa ng buong sigla at katapatan, KAWANGIS NI KRISTO. Sa pagdami ng ganitong uring mga mananampalataya, iiral ang pagmamahal, kapayapaan, pagkakasundo-sundo at pagkakaisa sa ating mga pamilya, parokya, sa buong Pilipinas, Asya at mundo. Halina, dumayo kayo sa mga susunod na LCSC. Ang Diyos ang tumatawag: KILALANIN SI KRISTO! ISABUHAY SI KRISTO! IPAMAHAGI SI KRISTO! For inquiries on the Live Christ, Share Christ Seminar, text 09062230305
(from page 2)
discrimination towards the Church during the time of controversies against the priesthood. “That’s part of it,” Monsignor said, as he described doubt. He said that even saints are subjected to moments of unsettling uncertainty. According to him, he dealt with these doubts using his knowledge of the faith. Even if it went against his feelings, he pushed these aside; his devotion unwavering. These things are what will strengthen and deepen one’s faith – as long as the person in uncertainty chooses to remain steadfast regardless of what the world says. “There’s no such thing as perfect,” he says and eventually jokes, “If you say you have no problems, I will buy a grave for you.” As the laughter ceased, he added that claiming to be completely void of problems means
one denies the need to be shaped into what God wants him or her to be, missing out on the point of living. Not of their own but God’s, to Monsignor Pete, fulfillment is seeing a far greater importance in living life as an honest, humble, and joyful man for the Church. And whatever he may have fulfilled, he remains a mere instrument in what is God’s entire making. At present, the congregation is home to thirty-six seminarians. They have what they call the “Come and See” program, wherein any aspirant is invited to come by the seminary for a visit, and there’s the probable eventual participation. Some who do are continued on page 11
Ito ang iilan sa mga sinabi ng mga naka- attend at nakapanayam ko na magbahagi ng kanilang saluobin sa seminar: “Kay sarap ng mga pagkain! Sisikapin kong maibahagi ang masasarap na kaalam at karanasan sa aking pamilya at ang mga kaibigan. Nais kong manamnaman din nila ang mga nalasap ko na hanggang ngayon ay sariwa pa sa aking puso at isip.” (Leni)
“Lubos na gumaan ang pakiramdam ko at talagang naligayahan ako. Nakaramdam ako ng pagnanais magbasa ng Salita ng Diyos. Inumpisahan ko na nga ito at gagawin ko na palagi.” (Glo)
“Napakahalaga ng seminar na ito hindi lamang para sa mga Kristiyano kundi para sa lahat. Dito lumilinaw ang tunay na dahilan kung bakit tayo naririto sa lupa: isabuhay si Kristo at ipamahagi kay Kristo at ang pagbabahagi sa kanya.” (Elsa)
“Napawi ang mga sakit ng aking kalooban at nawala o gumaan ang aking mga pasanin. Ipagpapatuloy ko ang pagbabago at dadalo ako sa mga prayer meeting. (Amy)
Walang imposible sa Diyos. Matatamo din unti-unti ang panaginip: kakaibang Kristyano; banal; buhay, naglilingkod sa Diyos at sa kapwa ng buong sigla at katapatan, KAWANGIS NI KRISTO. Sa pagdami ng ganitong uri ng mga mananampalataya, iiral ang pagmamahal, kapayapaan, pagkakasundosundo at pagkakaisa sa ating mga pamilya, parokya, sa buong Pilipinas, Asya at mundo. Dumayo kayo sa mga susunod na LCSC. Ang Diyos ang tumatawag: KILALANIN SI KRISTO! IS7 ABUHAY SI KRISTO! IPAMAHAGI SI KRISTO!
Album Review :– Skillet, Awake By Luigi Lejano
G
reetings, ladies and gentlemen! From months of silence, I come back to deliver another review: a review of one of the greatest Christian alternative rock albums I’ve listened to in a while. It’s another hard-hitting album from the famed Christian rock band Skillet; and it’s so awesome that I’ll say this up front- it’s another 5-star rated album in my books. Skillet is an American Christian rock band formed in Memphis, Tennessee in 1996. The band currently consists of husband and wife John (lead vocals, bass) and Korey Cooper (rhythm guitar, keyboards, backing vocals),
ka na May matagal ong sa bang nais itan isang Pari?
tu go n_ M ag -e m ai l sa ho o. co m . ne w sl et te r@ ya ta no ng ay An g m ap ili na am in g gu es t sa sa gu tin ng to r at la la ba s pr ie st co nt ri bu is su e ng sa su su no d na Tu go n.
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along with Jen Ledger (drums, vocals) and lead guitarist Seth Morrison. The band has released eight albums, two of which received Grammy nominations: Collide and Comatose. Over the past 15 years, Skillet has undergone several lineup changes, leaving founder John Cooper as the only original member remaining in the band. (1) The album was released on August 25, 2009 by Lava Records and Ardent Records and it debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200. The album was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) on July 27, 2010 and has sold just under 900,000 copies to date. It was nominated for Top Christian
Album at the Billboard Music Awards 2011 and won. (2)As I’ve said, this album is one of the best albums I’ve listened to since Decyfer Down’s Crash album. The reason? Because this album is the whole deal: inspiration, reflection, realization and a good motivation to take up arms and fight the good fight for our lives and the people we hold dear. Inspiration is felt through their song “Awake and Alive” as it expresses lines like, “I know what I believe inside! I’m awake and I’m alive!” Reflection is expressed with their song “Forgiven” with lines that go, “All the promises and lies, all the times I compromise, all the times You were denied, You have forgiven!” Realization is spoken through their song “One Day Too Late” with lines like, “Make a change, make the world a better place ‘cause tomorrow could be one day too late!” continued on page 10
Father, bakit ang anticipated mass kailangan hapon? Pag nagsimba po ako ng Sabado ng umaga, hindi po ba pwede i-consider na yun as my Sunday mass? It is Jewish tradition that the afternoon belongs to the next day. Even our Sabado de Gloria is technically our mass for the next day, which is Easter Sunday. Following that train of thought, Saturday morning masses can be considered masses from Friday and not for the next day, which is Sunday. - Msgr. Pete Getigan, S.M.Q.A
January 2012
From Porn sites
to
Christ’s light Daxx’ true story.
I grew up
in a Catholic family and attended 3 Catholic schools, yet by the time I was 20 years old, I was a certified “lukewarm Catholic.” It was in my 20’s that my immoral life went to another level. I was addicted to pornography and was engaged in unscrupulous premarital activties. I also accompanied my former boss, who was married, in going to strip clubs and “spas.” I was working as a web designer then for an online gambling company, and was creating pornographic websites on the side. My life was all about me. I sought all the pleasure the fallen world could give. I lived in mortal sin, and I was not repentant about it. I am thankful I did not die back then. God did not quit on me. With God’s mercy and grace, and with the prayers of my uncle, I had a conversion experience before my 26th birthday. Three events led me back to Christ and His Catholic Church. The first event was when I read Chicken Soup for the Soul #2. I remember crying as I read the stories in that book about people who gave themselves to others. For the first time in my life, I realized that life is not about selfishness, it is about self-giving; it is about love. I started reading inspirational books but I kept staying away from Catholic literature. If I started reading Catholic literature, I would not be able to plead ignorance anymore and I was still too attached to my sins.
The second event was when I bought a book about Mother Teresa’s life. I thought it was harmless enough but I was wrong. I also cried as I read that book. After reading it, I knew that I wanted to serve the poor for the rest of my life, and I also realized that I would need Jesus if I wanted to do that. Mother Teresa was straightforward in saying that it was Jesus who gave her the strength to do what she did, and I wanted that strength for myself. That was when I started going back to the Catholic Church. I knew in my heart that I will find Jesus in His body, the Church. So I started watching EWTN on cable and stopped avoiding Catholic books. It was the first time I really became catechized. I also started going to Mass more often. It was the first time I understood what it means to be a real Catholic.
The last event was when I was in an evening Mass at the St Francis Church in Mandaluyong. I believe it was after I received communion and I was kneeling when I had this clear and profound realization: that God created me, and therefore, He owns me. Thus, the logical thing for me to do was to give Him back my life. And so, in tears, I did. God gave me a lot of opportunities to make amends/reparation for the selfishness and sins I have committed and spread. After my conversion, I became a volunteer of the Missionaries of Charity for 4 years. I helped around the orphanage, taught Catechism to poor kids, and helped give medicines to the poor. As for the sins I have spread on the web, God led me to start my own blog 9 website, www.inspirationalcontinued on page 11
(from page 4)
A- Far from it! No one is obliged to have a missal; but if one needs it to help him focus better, he is free to use it. Then come Advent this year, he might as well get the NTRM, for continuing the use of older versions defeats one’s purpose; not to mention, it goes against the directive of the Church. Moreover, the missal is excellent for preparing for the Holy Eucharist and for meditation/reflection afterwards. In the Holy Eucharist, we become increasingly aware of our membership under one Church, the Body of Christ, as we hear, listen, sing, recite the same words and partake of the same spiritual meal. With the Holy Spirit, we can do all these with fuller attention and clearer understanding of the words. We can participate in the whole celebration
with heart and mind engaged, so that we may make a truly generous giving of ourselves to Him who first gave all of Himself to us.
Album Review: Skillet Awake (from page 8) All their songs are about dealing with sorrow, anger, malcontent and other worldly troubles by humbly accepting that you can’t do it alone; so one must seek help from others, and of course, from the Hero that is our Lord. My rate, as I have mentioned, is a perfect 5 out of 5 stars. If you need a good inspirational album and just want to steer a few notches from the usual
ASSUMPTION ANTIPOLO Transforming every student to become a WOMAN of Faith and of Action PRE-SCHOOL / GRADE SCHOOL / HIGH SCHOOL
For inquires Call Us! ADMISSIONS CENTER Sumulong Highway
(02) 650-72-56 650-72-30
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REQUIREMENTS FOR ADMISSION Two (2) photocopies: Birth and Baptismal Certificate (original copies have to be presented) Marriage Contract of Parents Three (3) copies of recent 2 x 2 I.D. pictures (ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR GS/HS) Photocopy of previous and recent report cards (Foreign students are required to submit an English translated Report card) Certificate of Schooling Non-refundable Application Form and testing fee of Php500 Foreign/Filipino Students Returning from Abroad Study Permit Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR) Official Evaluation of Academic records by the Students Records Officer for placement purposes
PROCEDURE: 1. Secure the Application Form at the Admissions Office. 2. Submit the requirements to the Admissions Office. 3. Take the entrance exam on the scheduled date.
w w w. a s s u m p t i o n a n t i p o l o . e d u . p h
January 2012
mellow songs, this is a surprisingly relaxing alternative rock album. If you want to give it a go, I can lend you my copy; just tap me on the back when you see me at the parish. Coiva, the Elvish word we used as our band’s name in the Musikristo contest, literally means “awake”, a concept brought forth from the album’s entire message. As a parting note, I just want to share a message from this album that struck me the most: “decide that today be the day you change for the better, the day when you choose a new beginning for a better life – because tomorrow could be one day too late!” Keep the peace and rock on! (1) Wikipedia, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ Skillet_%28band%29 (Feb 11,2012) (2) Wikipedia , http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Awake_%28Skillet_ album%29 (Feb 11,2012)
From Porn sites to
Christ’s light
(from page 9)
blogs.com, which focuses on Jesus and Catholic spirituality. Every now and then, I get emails from depressed people who find the writings uplifting. It gets around 5,000 hits a month, and now has a total hits of 73,000 since I started it last 2009. I also started the youtube account Catholicanimated (http://www.youtube.com/catholicanimated) last year, where I continue to post pro-life, catechismal and inspirational animations. It has garnered 11,000 views as of this writing. My friends and I have also started a feeding program for malnourished public school students in Tanay, Rizal. We are on our second school year of operations, feeding 70 kids on every run. St. Paul said, “Where sin increased, grace abounded all the more” (Rom 5:20). No matter how far we have fallen to sin, God’s mercy can reach us. No matter how far deep we are in the darkness, Jesus can bring us back to the light. Jesus can bring us back to life.I was living a miserable and empty life before I met Jesus. I did it “my way” – and my way sucked! Lent is a time of grace, a time of conversion; and at the end of it is the opportunity for a new life, a resurrection. All you need to do is to ask and seek Jesus and knock on his door, and He will give you new life. He will give Himself to you. And when you have Jesus, you have everything.
The Small Voice
from Within
(from page 7)
ex-seminarians who still come back even to return full time, “…even if they already have stable jobs,” Monsignor said. “They return because of the small voice within,” he said. The small voice, according to Monsignor, does not come as big as our thoughts or plans. It comes as a spark, an instinct, a tiny urge to fulfill one’s reason of being: to belong to God. This small voice from within is not only heard by the apostolate or those who intend to be part of it. Each of us has that tiny spark, that faint yet constant longing to have our lives be identified to God, may it be in a congregation, our families, or through our service to the Church – simply because we are made for Him and 11 “our souls will not find rest until it rests in Him.”
VOLUNTEER at PIHM!
Worship Ministry(Lectors, Altar Servers, etc.)- 0928-6987737 Evangelization Ministry(PREX, BBS,etc.)- 0923-2011127 Family Life Apostolate- 0906-2230305 Sacred Music Ministry- 0922-8290693 Mother Butler Guild- 0917-8559329 Ministry of Ushers & Greeters- 0916-2639086 Social & Human Devt. Ministry- 0920-9242140 Education (be a tutor or sponsor)- 0916-7733029 Youth & Vocations- 0915-3116105 (Sr. Adeling Mumpar)- 0999-4371038 Media Ministry(TUGON)- 0917-8458957 Official Newsletter of the Parish of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Hinulugan Taktak Road, Fairmount Hills subd., Antipolo City Tel. no. 696-43-87
Publisher Parish of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Editor in Chief Gabriel D. Montes Asst. Editor Delarie S. Almanzor Layout & Design Nathalie V. Mendoza Contributors Min C. Arellano Francesca D. Montes Daxx F. Bondoc Gabriel D. Montes Msgr. Pete Getigan Carina P. Salvador Wilfrido F. Montes Luigi D.P. Lejano Tess P. Mapa Advisers Rev. Fr. Alexander V. Enhaynes Parish Priest Lito C. Mendoza PPC President
REMEMBER these DATES! 12
DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY April 15 3:00pm start of Procession from Assumption 5:30pm Mass 24th PARISH RENEWAL EXPERIENCE April 14-15 (PREX) venue: Fairmount Subdivision Clubhouse Open to all parishioners 18 yrs old and above. For inquiries, text 0923-2011127 12th National PREX Convention venue: Ynares Center, Antipolo City For inquiries, text 0923-2011127
April 14-15
NIGHT OF PRAYER (TAIZĂŠ ) (organized by the Parish Youth Ministry) 6:00pm- 7:00pm at the parish grounds
April 28
PIHM: InFOCUS 1-Day Photography Workshop May1 Speaker: Guj Tungpalan of Redsheep Photo Cinema Limited slots only. Registration Fee: P1,000 For inquiries, text 0917-8572710.
PARISH PASTORAL VISIT PARISH FIESTA
June 10 June 16-17