VOL. I X NO. II
HINU LUGAN TAKTAK RO AD, FAI RM O U N T H IL L S S U B D . A N T IP O L O C IT Y
S E P T E M BER- O CT O BER 2 0 1 4
From the Editor
We’re back to the season of Lent and there’s no better way to celebrate it than by practicing mercy and compassion. We still have the “Pope Francis effect” hangover, and his visit last January inspired (and must continue to inspire us) to go above and beyond in all our duties, just as he does. The trick is to see our chances and take advantage when Christ or a beggar is passing by or better yet, seek His flock. As Pope Francis has said,”This is what I am asking you: be shepherds with the smell of sheep.”
In this issue:
Inside the issue
Pulso ng PIHM - Parish News Updates Last Quarter Throwback- 2014 Mapapalad ang mga Dukha 8 Habilin ni Santo Papa! Why do Catholics? Year of the Poor #PapalVisitPH: My Pilgrimage Experience Si Juan at ang Pope! THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE PARISH
Lessons from the Shepherd’s Visit Usapang Bisita’t Basura A Place to Meet We are Called to go Out and Serve Album Review: Thousand Foot Krutch App Review: Spotify Dates to Remember OF THE IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY
Pulso
ng PIHM
FIESTA Committee Updates
TESDA in PIHM
By Marj Estrada
The Knights of Columbus sponsored two TESDA Courses held recently at the Magnificat Hall of our parish.
Our current Parish Fiesta hermanas for 2015 are: St. Matthias Community
Daang Bakal I, Luzville I, Luville II, Luzville III, Valley Hills, Napocor
St. James the Great Community
Fairmount, St. Francis, Sitio Mabato, Tatlong Balon, Taktak Baba, Taktak Kanto
The Fiesta committee takes inspiration from the recently named RISE PIHM project of the Social and Human Development Ministry and plans to base their projects and festivities for 2015 on the same RISE battlecry: (RISE) Reach out, Inspire, Share and Empower. Help support by joining the upcoming activities.
ONGOING & UPCOMING PROJECTS Beautification of the Comfort rooms God, Me & Where do I put my Money? (Financial Wellness Series) Parish Fiesta Parish Dedication Christmas Lantern Making Contest
Congratulations, Graduates!
Feb Mar 7
The Welding National Certification (NC 1) course was held last September 27 to December 13, 2014. There were 18 students who graduated from this course with Mr. Roger Golosino as facilitator and Ms. Maris De Chavez as assistant; while the Electrical and Maintenance National Certification (NC 2) course, held last September 13, 2014 to January 24, 2015, was facilitated by Mr. Dave delos Santos. 28 students graduated. According to Kuya Robert Medina, Grand Knight of the PIHM Chapter, there will be other similar projects to look forward to this year, like dressmaking and cosmetology. Hopefully, more parishioners will join. Once again, congratulations, graduates!
June 13
ONGOING FUNDRAISERS
Nov 30
Honesty Bookshop Commemorative Papal Shirts Over 300 shirts sold!
Participants of the training for Welding course and Basic Electrical course at the Parish grounds
The Knights of Columbus would like to thank the following: Fr. Sandy Enhaynes, our Parish Priest; Mr. Dave delos Santos, Mr. Roger Golosino and Ms. Maris De Chavez of TESDA; Brgy. Capt. Serafin Alvaran, Kagawad Epifania Pido and the staff of Brgy. Dela Paz, Antipolo City, generous individuals, PIHM Church workers, MPC Heads, and to all the Brother Knights Council No. 13882.
Piso mo, Pagpapari Ko!
A VOCATION MINISTRY FUNDRAISER
Our parish seminarian, Jay Mercadero together with his mother, Geraldine Mercadero(L) and Myrna Rafallo(R), Vocations Ministry head 2
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Malayo ang mararating ng pagtabi ng Piso kada araw para sa ating Seminarista!TULONG NA! Get a bottle from the Parish office. For inquiries, text 0917-8203990
P32,022
TOTAL FUNDS RAISED AS OF FEB 1, 2015
last quarter
throwback2014
2nd Parish Dedication Anniversary
photo credit: Karina Mendoza-Rosal
Nov. 30, 2014
The 2014 Fiesta Hermana organized Gabi ng Parangal para kay Lolo at Lola, a dinner to give honor to our Parish’s senior citizens. They were also serenaded by special performers and entertained by numbers from the Street Dance contest participants of the community.
ATBP! Food + Art Bazaar Fundraiser Dec. 7 & 14, 2014
Though threatened by the storm, Ruby, the food and art bazaar organized by the Kubo ni Maria sellers was a success with more than 15 sellers joining. The 2-day food and art mini bazaar was able to raise P12, 072.25 to help with the construction of the Sacristy.
(center) Paper Artworks by Min Arellano almost sold out! (above) It was truly a family affair! Thanks for shopping to help build our parish Sacristy! photo credit: Lolit Argoso
Parish Gift giving Dec. 30, 2014
The parish was able to give 100 gift packs to marginalized families around our parish community. The event started with a mass followed by the actual gift giving. Thank you to everyone for your generosity and support! (right most) All smiles! Fr. Sandy Enhaynes and Parish Pastoral Council President, Jess Pampellona with one of the beneficiaries of the Parish Gift Giving activity.
Parish Christmas Party Dec. 30, 2014
(below) Everyone enjoyed the group games! Our parish priest, Fr. Sandy, leads one of the games for adults.
This year’s fiesta hermanas organized the Christmas Party for parish workers. With raffle prizes, games and classic street food favorites like fishballs, taho and dirty ice cream, it was a fun-filled bonding time for the young and the young-atheart.
(top + left) Street food galore! ice cream + taho! FEBRUARY - MARCH 2015
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CHURCH CONSTRUCTION UPDATES Here are a few updates as we move forward to address the needs of our fast growing parish community: •
The installation of glass roofing of the Archbishop’s walk has been completed. Donations from the Kubo ni Maria Sunday Bazaar fundraiser, the Garden of Resurrection Ossuary sales, and various individual donors were used to shoulder the cost.
•
The installation of the media agua roof at the central part of the Archbishop’s walk has already started. This particular roofing will prevent rain from coming into the central landing of the walk, where people converge upon exiting the parish church. Estimated time of completion is by March or April 2015.
•
Mapapalad ang mga Dukha ni Carina Salvador
“Blessed are the poor in spirit for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven” -Matthew 5:3 Iyan ang naging tema na tumatak sa isipan ng mga Kabataan ng Diyosesis ng Antipolo na nakilahok sa 16th Diocesan Youth Day (DYD) na ginanap noong Disyembre 27-29, 2014 sa Our Lady of Light Parish, Cainta, Rizal. Madaling sambitin pero mabigat na hamon para sa mga kabataang dumalo. Sa panahon kung saan napakaraming temptasyonnariyan ang mga uso at magagarang pananamit, latest na gadgets, implu-
The plans for the Sacristy, Baptistry, and restrooms are still being reviewed by the Construction Committee and the estimated cost for the construction of these facilities will be confirmed when drawings are finalized.
Please continue with your generosity, and support the construction of the facilities of our parish community! To DONATE, call 696-4387 or drop by the Parish Office (TUES-SUN 8:30am5:00pm; lunch break is from 12noon till 2pm)
CONSTRUCTION FINANCIAL REPORT
Ongoing installation of the media agua to prevent rain from entering the central area Archbishop’s walk.
wensya ng barkada at kabi-kabilang lugar kung saan maaring ‘gumimik’ at magsaya- mahirap umiwas di ba? Paano ka pa nga ba magiging “dukha sa sarili” (poor in spirit)? Ang katanungang yan ay nabigyang kasagutan sa loob ng tatlong araw na pagdaloy ng DYD. Winika ni Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle sa kanyang homily sa harap ng higit 400 na kabataan: “Mga kabataan: poor in spirit means YOU who will TRUST in the Lord. continued on page 14
Finished glass roofing at the Archbishop’s walk
DID YOU KNOW..
Ano nga ba ang SACRISTY?
Ang sacristy ay ang lugar o kwarto sa simbahan kung saan itinatago ang mga banal na kagamitang pang-misa at kung saan kadalasan naghahanda ang mga pari at ministrong layko para sa pagdiriwang ng Misa. Sa kasalukuyan, ang ating “temporary sacristy” sa ating parish church ay isang cabinet na matatagpuan malapit sa sound booth.
We continue to ask for your generosity. Call 696-4387 (Parish office) 4
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Habilin ni Santo Papa!
hango sa Meeting with the Families Jan. 16, 2015 - SM Mall of Asia
isinalin ni Jennifer Pampellona at Ivan Rosal guhit ni Natz Mendoza
Mangarap ng malaki para sa ating pamilya.
Kapag nawalan ng kakayahang mangarap, nawawala rin ang kakayahang magmahal. Mangarap tungkol sa mabubuting bagay na mayroon sila. Huwag hayaang mawala ang tagimpan nung mga panahong kayo’y magkasintahan pa lamang.
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Gawing tagapamagitan si San Jose upang
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Magpahinga sa Panginoon.
Ang pamamahinga ay mahalaga para sa kalusugan ng ating katawan at isipan ngunit napaka-hirap gawin dahil sa dami ng bagay na naka-atas sa atin. Mahalaga ang pahinga para sa ating kalusugang pang-espiritwal upang marinig natin ng mabuti ang mga nais sabihin sa atin ng Panginoon.
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Magmahal, magpatawad, magmalasakit!
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Bumangon kapag narinig ang tawag ng Diyos. Bumangon at kumilos!
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Ang pananampalataya ay hindi dapat maging sanhi ng pagkakahiwalay ng mundo/tao, sa halip, ito dapat ang tumulong sa pagkakaisa ng mga ito. Nararapat na makisalamuha tayo sa mundo/tao ngunit kaakibat dapat nito ang pagdarasal. Bawat isa sa atin ay may mahalagang papel para sa paghahanda sa pagdating ng Kaharian ng Diyos dito sa mundo.
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Maging handa sa mga banta sa ating pamilya.
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Maging matalas at malakas na may tibay ng loob. Bawat banta sa pamilya ay pagbabanta sa mismong lipunan. Kailangan maiwasan ng ating mga pamilya ang materyalismo at sa uri ng pamumuhay na maaring makasira sa pamilya.
malaman kung kailan dapat sumang-ayon at kung kailan dapat sumalungat.
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“Lahat ng pamilya ay maraming pagsubok na haharapin, huwag nawang makadagdag pa sa mga ito.”
Lumabas at tumulong sa ating mga kapatid na pinakanangangailangan.
“Hinihiling ko na kayo ay magmalasakit sa mga walang sariling pamilya— mga matatanda at ulila. Iparamdam niyo sa kanila na hindi sila kinalimutan ng Panginoon. Maaaring payak ang iyong mga kagamitan ngunit laging isiping marami kayong maihahandog kung ibabahagi ninyo si Kristo at ang Kanyang Simbahan.”
Malimit na magdasal at ibahagi ang bunga ng pananampalataya sa mundo, upang ang lahat ay
makilala si Kristo at ang Kanyang mahabaging pagmamahal.
FEBRUARY - MARCH 2015
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Why do
Catholics?
Year of the Poor by Min Arellano
What? A Year of the Poor? Why do Catholics celebrate the scandal of poverty?! It doesn’t seem to make sense. It’s far better to consider the Year of the Poor (YP) as a period of conscientization. See, friends, many have become immune to the presence of slums that fester with disease and crime: the sight of beggars and sidewalk dwellers in our cities, of street children scrounging for left overs from garbage bins—a big indictment for a country labeled as “the only predominantly Christian Catholic” one in Asia. We shudder at statistics on poverty but do not look at the faces of the hungry, the degraded, and the afflicted; and we fail to see their connection with us, and hardly do anything ourselves, or do too little to pull them out of deprivation and despair. Last year’s storms have impoverished more people, increasing the already swollen numbers of the very poor. The YP is Christ’s calling to respond to their cries for help; and He came to us through His vicar, Pope Francis, to show his love for them and to comfort the still suffering Tacloban-Yolanda survivors. Pope Francis appealed for mercy and compassion, not in profound theological pronouncements but in his simple, gentle words that touched our hearts:
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CRY. When we cry with the poor, our tears of empathy cleanse us of indifference. We are moved to reach out and help carry their burdens; and we realize that we are all God’s children. BEG. Come humble and clean before God, for the prayers of the righteous are powerful. Petition God for things, not only for yourselves, but more so for the needy, and pray unceasingly for one another. GIVE. Not just to feel good inside because we’ve done our duty, or to take the easy way of donation as a substitute for more direct participation in the service of the poor. Remember, when you merely say, “May all go well with you,” but give nothing to the hungry or the naked, what good is that? (James 2: 15-16) RECEIVE. You have received freely from God, then freely give, and cheerfully and generously too. In gratitude, you share your material and spiritual good with others, especially the poor, and not hog it all to yourself. In the process, you reduce the poor to mendicancy! Why practice charity that encourages laziness or dependence? There may be no choice. Right after floods, landslides, fires, earthquakes and loss of lives, especially of breadwinners, homes and livelihood, remedies cannot wait. The need for material and psychological
FEBRUARY - MARCH 2015
help is sustained because for those in shock, recovery takes time, mercy and compassion. Do remember that for a good number of people and organizations, every year is a YP. There are many inspiring stories of poor families led to productivity and self-reliance: the Gawad Kalinga Villages in formerly depressed areas are now alive with homes built by the sweat of the poor themselves, with materials from donors; livelihood projects in place to meet their daily needs; and sharing, working together and praying together—all evidence of the “genius of the poor” when given formation, guidance and cooperation. MORE: The miracle of the Makati pizzeria owned and run by the homeless poor who used to sleep around
We shudder at statistics on poverty but do not look at the faces of the hungry, the degraded, and the afflicted; and we fail to see their connection with us..” the Don Bosco church, the entrepreneurship movement of the Villars, the GoNegosyo programs of the Concepcions, and many other life-changing works carried on by parishes, schools and business corporations. But all that barely scratches the surface! Millions struggle below the poverty line despite the rosy picture drawn by today’s economic analysts. Correct. Hence, the YP is also a rally against injustice and inequality. It summons all, especially those in high government and private offices to focus on things that really matter: honesty, integrity and commitment to the common welfare, most of all, of that of our poorest. While it is the government that should dismantle unjust structures in all areas of our national life—economic, political, social and cultural—laymen must work increasingly and vigorously for a just ordering of society, aided by the ethical inputs
of the clergy (Pope Benedict XVI: on Christian love) . In summary, the YP challenges all to conversion—to a radical change of heart and mind to be one with the poor, simplify our lifestyles, and to sustain the initial stirrings of mercy and compassion, applying them constantly so that in some not-sodistant future, no one is left behind or excluded, denied the basic necessities for a decent and dignified human life. The YP asks us to honor the poor who teaches us simple faith in God, patience in bearing our daily cross, and resiliency. In helping them, we become participants in Christ’s work of mercy and compassion; and we are fortunate according to His word: “Come and take the place I have prepared for you… Whenever you did these to the least of my brethren, you did also to me.” (Mt 25: 34-40) Living in love and living a life of love as Jesus did, we are fortunate.
THINK, FEEL, DO! ORGANIZATION NAME
photos by Daxx Bondoc
No one is too poor to have nothing to share! Time, talent or treasure! Here are some parish programs or nearby organizations which you can help:
WHAT THEY DO
CONNECT & HELP!
PARISH EVANGELIZATION MINISTRY (parish-based)
They hold Bible Study sessions at financially-challenged sitios around our parish —mostly children and mothers.
0927-3964189
BATANG PAROKYA EDUCATION SUB-MINISTRY (parish-based)
They tutor Math and English to marginalized children every Saturday morning. They also provide school supplies and transportation allowance.
0942-8455457
SOCIAL AND HUMAN DEV’T. MINISTRY (parish-based)
They hold medical missions, bloodletting projects, free clinics and organize affordable medical laboratory services.
0920-9242140
CROSSROADS Treatment and Rehabilitation Foundation Inc.
The agency aims for positive change in the drug/substance dependent, by providing for activities that promote and enhance the sense of responsibility, well-being, and dignity.
http://crossroadsmmcc.org
MISSIONARIES OF CHARITY HOME OF LOVE (Sumulong Hi-way)
They provide food and shelter for young orphans and elderly. 697 6457
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#PapalVisitPH:
My Pilgrimage Experience by Marj Estrada
Rain or shine,
the faith of the Filipinos held strong last January 18, 2015 at the Quirino Grandstand where the beloved Pope Francis helped make history. Our call time was three in the morning at the Parish of the Immaculate Heart of Mary located in Taktak. Around 3:30am, the bus began to roll towards CCP where the eventful day for Filipinos began. We arrived at the designated parking area at exactly 4:32am. Even at this freezing hour, the place was packed with devotees hailing from all over the islands. From CCP, we walked about 2-3 kilometers going to Quirino Grandstand. Adults, children, teenagers and even old folks trekked with the fascination and excitement of seeing the Pope, hoping for a close encounter.
It was a complete riot.
There were people pushing, squeezing their way to get ahead to have a good spot. As a result, some pilgrims got hurt, fainted and needed medical attention, and well, I’m sure it isn’t that hard to imagine the rest. A storm was raging ahead yet there wasn’t any apprehension, only the anticipation of what’s before us. The Filipino faith is definitely something. Hats off to everyone who stood with us in that park. It was obvious that no one cared about the hardship of the journey; only that everyone was united towards one goal- to be one for Pope Francis.
Everything happens for a reason. In spite of all the
sufferings, the fatigue, and the rain, I still stayed and patiently waited. None of it mattered because my main goal was to see the Pope and experience His Holiness. All the sacrifice would make seeing him a sweeter experience.
The moment finally came.
The sensation was absolutely different. When he passed by our group, the feeling of renewal and enlightenment came upon us. The slight wave of his hand and his radiant smile brought a new bout of blessing, so much so that tears unexpectedly trickled from my eyes, merged with the rain, taking with it every ounce of fatigue and pain I’ve felt.
Thank you so much for
the opportunity to be a part of this momentous history. Also, many thanks to these ladies, Angela Paguio, Carina Salvador and Keana Baluyot who were with me all throughout the day. Our experience was priceless! We thought that we wouldn’t see the Pope, but we never lost hope. God found a way for us to be blessed by Pope Francis and experience his Holiness. God will always find a way to make things possible.
ni Carina Salvador
“Si Juan at ang Pope! #RareMoment” Sabi
nga, “suntok sa buwan” na maituturing ang pagdalaw ng mahal na Santo Papa Francisco sa ating bansa (marahil na-‘knock-out’ yung buwan! Haha!) Sino ang makakapagsabing dadalaw siya sa bansa at makikita ko siya ng personal? Yes! Never in my wildest dreams! Kahit mga manghuhula sa Quiapo hindi ito na-predict eh. Kidding aside. Mula sa milyun-milyong Pilipino na nag-abang sa kanyang pagdating, biyayang maituturing ang makapiling sa loob ng limang araw ang Santo Papa Francisco,
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na siyang buhay na patunay ng mga salitang “mercy at compassion”. Kaisa ang delegasyon ng parokya, kabilang kami sa anim na milyong Katolikong Pilipino na naki-isa sa Papal mass sa Quirino Grandstand. Nasaksihan namin ang nag-aalab na pag-ibig ng sambayanang Katoliko sa Mahal na Papa. Hindi alintana ang malakas na buhos ng ulan, malamig na temperatura, gutom, mahabang
Lessons from
the Shepherd’s visit That day had all the makings of a ‘disaster’- rainy weather that soaked our shoes, wet and soggy sandwich for lunch, unstable network reception, and 6 million strangers jostling for a better spot. I had every reason to feel miserable, except that (a) it was my birthday, and (b) I saw Pope Francis pass by.
Everyone has his own battle; it is not all about you (not even when it’s your birthday)”
by Ange la Paguio
irate behavior and “bad vibes”), all in the name of making it meaningful. Gratefully so, since it helped me disregard the misfortunes of the day and seek God’s messages instead, which I am now sharing here.
stay atop the center island along M. Orosa Avenue, even against Be stubborn for the right the order of the authorities. Once reason. we stepped down, and after a I came to Luneta together with a huge brief episode of the blame-game, I group from the parish and left with realized that it was our stubbornness only three. We got separated from continued on page 11 the delegation when we chose to
To say that it was my birthday meant that I was extra reflective and cautious towards my responses (to
Usapang
Bisita’t basura
Noong
Enero 18, 2015, umikot sa motorcade at nag-misa pagkatapos si Papa Francesco sa Luneta, Manila. Masaya at maganda ang saloobin ng lahat dahil sa pagkakataon na makita ang Santo Papa. Kahit isang iglap lang na masulyapan mo siya ay halo-halong emosyon na ang iyong mararamdaman. Ganoon rin ang naramdaman ko noong nakita ko ang mahal na Santo Papa ngunit napalitan ito
oras ng paghihintay, pakikipagsiksikan; bata man o matanda, may kapansanan man o wala. Lahat ay umaasa na magkaroon ng ‘closeencounter’ kay Pope. Narito ang ilan sa mga testimonya ng mga ka-parokya nating dumalo o nakinig sa Papal mass. Sharing their so-called “Pope Francis-effect”:
ni Gabz Montes
noong lumabas ako ng Luneta - puro basura, kalat at putik. Nakakalungkot isipin na kung gaano tayo ka prayerful at kabait sa harap ng Santo Papa, pagdating naman sa pag-aalaga sa ating kapaligiran, ay wala tayong pakialam. Malamang ay hindi natin nakita, pero karamihan ng kalat ay nilinis ng mga kasapi ng El Shaddai. Ika nga nila, “cleanliness is next to Godliness”, kaya lahat ng ginagawa
natin dapat ay katumbas ng ating pagmamahal sa Diyos. Bilang mga mabubuting Kristiyano, dapat iniisip din natin ang kapakanan ng mga huwarang continued on page 15 ph ot o cr ed it: An ge lo S. Ah um ad a
“He’s like a healing balm. His ability to bring Catholics back to faith inspired me to look for ways on how I can be more welcoming to those who feel distant from Jesus and the Church. His words motivate me to persevere as God’s servant”. Leona Mae Ferrer
member-Parish Youth Ministry continued on page 10 FEBRUARY - MARCH 2015
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As the
No. 38 FEBRUARY 2015
“As the Deer Panteth for the water so my soul longeth after thee”
Deer
A Place to Meet
P
ope Francis wants to meet each one of us. His actions show it. He dials his own telephone calls and rings doorbells himself. It is a possibility today that Pope Francis may dial your number to converse directly with you. He insisted to move around the crowds so many can see him even for just one second. He blessed our country with his visit. Tacloban and Metro Manila shall become places where many will remember their encounter with the Pope. Places where we meet our loved ones bring back the time and give life to our memories. We remember the rain, the heat, and the sacrifices too.
Our faith gives us such a place of encounter - the Catholic Church, and the Parish. There, we meet new and old friends, the poor, the rich, lay people and priests. Christ would like to meet us as many times as we are willing to allow Him. Considering the passion and death He underwent to save us, we can just imagine the excited look on His face every time we decide to give Him our time. See and imagine the cheerful look of Pope Francis multiplied a hundred times or more. See the tears of joy.
written by Bing Montes illustration by Alida Lejano photos by Daxx Bondoc
When we properly receive Christ, He tags along and we bring Him to others. Others will see the cheerfulness we get from Him. Our Parish will soon be giving us an opportunity to respond to the call of Pope Francis to meet and see the face of Christ in the ‘least of our brethren’. Just like the Pope, we shall be doing it with cheerfulness.
Photos from the Parish Medical & Dental Mission at 7th Hills-Sumulong Hi-way
“Si Juan at ang Pope! #RareMoment” (from page 9)
“The moment I saw [Pope] Francis (even on T.V), I was ultimately awestruck. Just seeing his joyous smile put me in tears. I remember his message “To think love, to feel and to do, all that harmoniously with love”. With that, I know how I am deeply moved by his presence. I will always remember to love selflessly and think of others, not only myself”. Jennifer Pampellona
educational therapist; member - Music Ministry 10
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“Blessed and fulfilled are the two words that best describe my experience seeing Pope Francis. Had I decided not to join the pilgrimage, I would not have been part of the six million people who showed the true meaning of faith, solidarity and sacrifice”. Baby Claravall
member - Music Ministry
Lessons from
the Shepherd’s visit (from page 9)
that caused our isolation from the group- nothing else. Looking back, I could hear myself candidly say “Ginusto mo ‘yan eh.” We might have made a wrong move but our group stood by it. We searched for familiar faces and for a “safe” spot to rest. It was the same stubbornness that kept us driven in seeing the Pope; but this time we made sure we did nothing wrong. From that point on, I can’t say that it all started to get easy.
Care for others.
In an event as big as the Papal visit, caring gestures are rare- difficult, even. Sharing no matter how little one had, helping the elderly and the children make their way through the mob, and refusing to engage in a petty argument, could have easily made anyone’s struggle for that day [or for any day for that matter] more bearable. Remember: Everyone has his own battle; it is not all about you (not even when it’s your birthday).
He will reveal His purpose in due time. When it seemed certain that we were getting nowhere near the Quirino Grandstand, we resigned
Written by Angela Paguio Photo from Chilryon Baluyot
with heavy hearts to go back to our bus. Our walk led to another passageway, which led us to the statue of (our now favorite) hero Lapu-Lapu, where one of us noticed a map of the whole venue including that of the papal route. To our surprise (as we were not wellprepared), we learned that the Pope would pass by Roxas Boulevard, which happened to be on our way to the bus. At the end of the day, we realized how lucky we were to have seen the map. Yes, we would have known that the Pope would go through that path, regardless. But for us, the map served as the much-needed “light at the end of the tunnel” and the way out of the chaos, so to speak. So, heads up! He’s there! Stay hopeful!
Give thanks.
Anyone can turn a discouraging situation into a promising one by simply giving thanks. In our case, we were thankful for the person/s who invited us to join the delegation, those who helped us prepare, the volunteers, the strangers who helped us navigate through the sea of people, the establishments which opened its restrooms to the public for free, for each other, and definitely
“Sa lahat ng sinabi at naging epekto sa akin ni Pope, siguro yung message niya for families na “Don’t stop dreaming ” ang tumimo sa aking isipan. Sa panahon ngayon, nalilimutan na natin yung “to aim for more”. Hindi para sa sarili lamang kundi para sa iba”. Asuncion Valenzuela
member - Mother Butlers Guild
Still all smiles and hopeful with Chill, Carina and Carla.
for and to God who has made all things possible. Zero in on what keeps your hope alive, and feel joyful instantly. Having to spend my birthday on the same day as the Papal visit’s final mass was both a test and a miracle for me. That is why when I finally saw the Pope waving and smiling from his Pope mobile, I had tears in my eyes and inexplicable joy in my heart. So, was it a disaster, you might ask? With the lessons and experiences I earned that day, I’d say “not even close!”
“Hanggang ngayon, hindi ko maipaliwanag yung pakiramdam ko noon. Super nakakainspire yung mga sinabi niya. Mapapa-”oo” ka nalang at suddenly magiging action mo na yung sinasabi niya. Ang cool! Ang ‘di ko malilimutang sinabi niya ay: “Do not hide your faith, do not hide Jesus but carry Him into the world and offer the witnesses of your life”. Charlotte Rafallo
student; member- Youth Ministry
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continued on page 12
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We Are Called to
Go Out and Serve! text and photos by Daxx Bondoc
With
earth as flooring and rusted roofs as fence, there is no indiscriminate area to teach the Word of God as this community’s mothers and children prove through their active participation in their Bible Study session. On one Saturday, I joined Kuya Robert, Kuya Manny, Kuya Philip, Ate Donna and Ate Lolit in their Bible Study in Sitio Mabato. After a short drive from the Parish, we entered a narrow “mabato” road to the location. When we got out of the car, I saw a small vacant area - the venue where the classes are held. Shortly, the children came bringing
Kuya Robert Medina and Ate Donna Hadap leading some singing with the community
their own stools while the mothers stand during the activity. We started with a prayer and then sang actions songs to warm up. After that, the scriptural study began. The mothers and children listened intently as the Word of God was preached to them. We had some sharing afterwards to enrich
the scriptures they had just learned. The study session ended with a prayer. Pope Francis said, “We who are Christians, members of
“Si Juan at ang Pope! #RareMoment” (from page11)
“It is when I personally saw him that I realized I am also being called by God to teach and help in my own little ways. “Certain realities in life we see only through eyes which are cleansed with tears” -Pope Francis to the Youth in UST. Through this, he emphasized the importance of attaching ourselves to others. Meaning, if we place ourselves in the shoes of those who are burdened and troubled, only then we can understand the degree of their despair.” Patricia Placides Student 12
Tugon
FEBRUARY- MARCH 2015
Sa huli, may sari-sarili man tayong ‘Pope experience’ nawa’y magkaisa tayo sa pagtugon sa panawagan ng Santo Papa na maging biyaya sa ating kapwa at mapag-aruga sa mga dukha. Viva il Papa Francesco!
Kuya Philip Du, head of the Social and Human Devt. Minsitry, chatting with a child.
God’s family, are called to go out to the needy and to serve them.” We are not only asked to help the poor with their material needs, but also to be with them. God knows they need material help, but they also need to know the God who loves them. “Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God,” says Jesus. The poor need to hear the Word of God because this tells them that they are not alone in their suffering, “Surely I am with you always…” - Matthew 28:20. They need to hear the most important words in their life - “God loves you.” As much as the poor need food in their stomach, they also need God in their hearts. Mother Teresa considered the feeling of being unloved as the
greatest poverty; and that poverty can only be satisfied by experiencing the ‘love of God’. When we listen to the Word of God, we encounter Christ Himself - the Word made flesh; and when we encounter Jesus, we can hear Him say to us “I love you.” As Christians, we are all called in some way to go out to serve the needy. Why? Because that is what our Master did. Jesus went down from heaven to serve us - the needy people.
Evangelization MINISTRY
DONATE or VOLUNTEER!
As much as the poor need food in their stomach, they also need God in their hearts.”
text 0927.396.4189 0917.822.1301 FEBRUARY - MARCH 2015
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app review:
Mapapalad ang mga Dukha
by Luigi Lejano
(from page 4)
(desktop and mobile) Is there even anyone today who doesn’t know what Spotify is? Just in case you don’t, it’s simply the best free online music streaming player in existence today. Check out these features: 99 Unlimited audio streaming on your desktop, phone and/or tablet (IOS and Android). 99 Has a collection of almost all songs in existence- old and new. 99 Web player in case you’re using a public PC. 99 You can save songs/albums on your mobile phone (IOS and Android) so you can play them even without mobile data usage. 99 Playlist management that can be accessed on any device when you have an account. 99 A social media function where you can sync your Spotify account with your Facebook account and follow your friends’ activities on Spotify. 99 A social media function where you can follow the artists you want and get notifications on its home screen for their latest activities. 99 Option to try the Premium subscription for free for 30 days.
But amidst all those beautiful things, there’s always the downside to everything and here’s what I’ve experienced so far: 99 Advertisements that play from time to time if you’re a free user. 99 Internet connection is required since it’s an audio streaming application. 99 If you opt to try the free 30 day Premium subscription, you cannot use the mobile app unless you pay the subscription once it expires. The Premium subscription costs 129 Php for 30 days - which for me is more than worth it, especially if you’re someone who enjoys a lot of music; more so if you enjoy that music on the go. I personally use this for my album reviews for Tugon so that I can follow the artists I enjoy listening to and get updates if they release something new. So if you’re a music enthusiast like me, this application would be a very useful tool that will help by giving you access to new and old albums that you can listen to at your own convenience.
Hayaan niyo Siyang kumilos sa inyong buhay. Hindi ko sinasabing maging tamad kayo. Bagkus, hayaan niyong si Hesus ang maging sentro ng inyong pagkilos. Learn this poverty in spirit while young, and you will not regret it. You’ll experience the joy, the blessedness of having found a new kingdom that only God gave us”. Tunay ngang mapalad kaming mga kabataan ng Diyosesis ng Antipolo na mabigyan ng pambihirang pagkakataon na maliwanagan at matuto sa pagtitipong ito. Tiyak na ibabahagi namin sa aming mga kapwa kabataan ang mga aral na aming natamo. Sabi nga sa isang commercial tag-line, “You only live once (Y.O.L.O.)!”. Sa pagtatapos ng aming DYD journey, binitiwan namin ang mga salitang: “I only live once so I will live it for Christ”, bilang hudyat ng aming pagtugon sa naiibang hamon na ito.
Youth participants in prayer, during one of the Diocesan Youth Day activities.
STAY C O N N EC T ED ! @Pontifex pope APP Download it from the App store
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FEBRUARY - MARCH 2015
Parish Youth delegates of the Diocesan Youth Day together with Fr. Sandy Enhaynes.
Album Review:
Believing in Humanity
by Luigi Lejano
Thousand Foot Krutch – The End Is Where We Begin (2012)
The end
is where we begin, so we’ll start at that. This album is definitely one of the most motivating albums that I’ve listened to in years. Even if it’s a bit old, its messages still apply today. I have given 5 out of 5 stars to it and here’s why: Majority of Christian rock bands and albums nowadays mostly profess their love for God and the things they are willing to do in His name; but that is not the case for this album. The End Is Where We Begin has a motivational feel to it which starts out to be delivered with very strong hard rock songs but mellows towards the end of the album. The songs are mostly rock songs with fast beats. Some songs have a few rap verses, and the songs towards the end of the album are played at a
much more mellow tone or even in an acoustic way. Amidst these apparent variety in musical styles, the message that they want to deliver in this album is strong: we are the choice, we are the strong, and we are one; and with God, we can move mountains- and that’s all we need to know. The End Is Where We Begin is a good album that I can recommend to people who enjoy a mix of good rock songs, motivational spiritual songs, and strong songs of professing one’s love to God, his neighbors, and his duty. This is truly one good album that calls one to be brave and carry on fighting the good fight that is - our devotion.
usapang
bisita’t basura
Bookshop
How to buy a book:
1. Choose a book from the shelf 2. Leave your payment in the labelled money box 3. Enjoy your book! Happy Reading!
OPEN SUNDAYS
(from page 9)
tagalinis ng mga kalsada. Gaano ba kahirap na hawakan natin ang basura natin ng ilang minuto pa hanggang sa makahanap ng susunod na basurahan? Hindi ba’t sarili mong dala ito at hindi naman sa iba? Magbahagi tayo ng ika nga, mercy and compassion sa mga taga-linis.
The Honesty
Sana sama-sama tayo sa pagpapanatili na malinis ang ating kapaligiran, saan man tayo mapunta pagkat si Santo Papa mismo ang nagsabi na kailangan natin pangalagaan ang ating Inang Kalikasan. Mahalin natin siya tulad ng pagmamahal natin kay Inang Maria.
10am-12nn Magnificat Hall
(Lower level of the Parish Church)
W e a l so a c c ept b o ok d on at i on s specia l l y Chil d ren ’ s book s, Bib l e s, En g l ish D ict i on a r i e s, M a g a z in e s .
FEBRUARY - MARCH 2015
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PARISH CHURCH
MASS SCHEDULE
W E E K D AY S + S AT U R D AY 7:00AM English (M,W,F) 7:00AM Tagalog (T,Th,S) S U N D AY 9:00 A M Tagalog Mass 10:30AM Tagalog Mass 11:30AM Baptism 5:30PM English Mass
Parish Office
696-4387 Open Tues till Sun 8:30am - 5:00pm Lunch break: 12nn - 2pm
DATES TO REMEMBER MARCH 1-7 Stations of the Cross (Fridays only) 2pm- 4pm Parish Grounds MARCH 7 God, Me & Where do I put my Money? (Financial Wellness Talk) 9am-12nn Fiat Hall Register now! 0922-8456467 MARCH 21 Visita Iglesia 2015: Bulacan To Register, call 696-4387 MARCH 27 Parish Lenten Recollection 6pm Mass at Parish Church 7pm-8pm Recollection MARCH 29 Palm Sunday 8:30am Commemoration and procession at the hill across par ish. BLESSING of PALMS will be at the START followed by the mass. ** For 10:30am, 5:30pm mass, there will be only “Blessing of Palms” at the Church.
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THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE PARISH OF THE IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY
MAR 30-31 Way of the Cross 4pm Pinagmisahan Hill (known as White Cross) APRIL 1 Holy Wednesday APRIL 2 Holy Thursday Eucharistic Vigil APRIL 3 Good Friday APRIL 2-4 Paschal Triduum “The Longest Mass” APRIL 4 Easter Vigil with Trentang Gitara At iba pa! Mixed Orchestra. To JOIN as a musician, text 0917-5434158/ 0917-5730723 For regular updates, like us on facebook!
PIHMantipolo
FEBRUARY - MARCH 2015
A PROJECT OF THE PIHM MEDIA MINISTRY
Hinulugan Taktak, Fairmount Hills Subd. Antipolo City Tel. no. 696-4387 PIHMTugon
Publisher Parish of the Immaculate Heart of Mary / House Printers Corp. Editor in Chief Gabriel D. Montes Asst. Editor Cherry Lou Y. Geronimo Layout & Design Editor Natz V. Mendoza Artists & Photographers Angelo S. Ahumada Ivan O. Rosal Karina M. Rosal Lolit M. Argoso Daxx F. Bondoc Alida D.P. Lejano Contributors
Min C. Arellano Daxx F. Bondoc Marj D. Estrada Luigi D.P Lejano Bing F. Montes
Angela A. Paguio Carina P. Salvador
Advisers Rev. Fr. Alexander V. Enhaynes Parish Priest Jess F. Pampellona PPC President
Nestled within our parish grounds is a home for your departed loved ones. For inquiries and niche reservations call
696-4387