Ugnayan
THE NEWS SUPPLEMENT OF COUPLES FOR CHRIST CBCP Monitor Vol. 22 No. 21
October 15 - 28, 2018 C1
CFC Youth Experience the Synod
By Pia Eviota, YFC Europe Mission Volunteer ON the 6th of October 2018, CFC's youth ministry, Youth for Christ, was given a once in a lifetime opportunity to experience the joy of gathering with 7,000 other young people from all over the world, when they attended the monthlong Synod of Bishops. The synod, held in St. Peter's Square, Vatican City, had as theme 'Young People, the Faith and Vocational Discernment'. The YFC delegation joined delegates from all over Europe—from the United Kingdom, Austria and Switzerland, with the biggest participation coming of course from Italy (Rome). Despite the gloomy skies and rainy weather, the faithful stood in line, joyfully waiting under their umbrellas for the doors to open. The atmosphere was filled with much excitement, especially for the YFC as it promised to be a very close encounter with Pope Francis. Saturday’s rally took place in the Paul VI audience hall. A part of the community’s delegation had the chance to sit near the stage and at the center aisle where the Holy Father would later walk by. Even though there were still two hours left before the beginning of the event, everyone in the room got excited when the bishops from all over the world started to come one after the other. With cheering left and right, it was sheer bliss to see the bishops reaching out to the young people and giving out hugs to acquaintances, stopping by for pictures—as how every “millennial” would have liked. The Church leaders were evidently joyful at the chance to connect with the youth. The much-awaited arrival of Pope Francis was greeted with much loud cheering. The Holy Father stopped to
bless infants and children with a very warm and inviting smile, like a host very happy to see his precious guests. The assembly rally entitled “Noi Per Unici, Solidali, Creativi”, which means “Young people for uniqueness, solidarity and creativity” soon followed. The celebration-cum-variety show featured dancing, singing and talented pianists, the highlight of which were testimonies from the youth from all around the world. As the young people shared their stories, they also took turns to ask the Pope about issues and realities they currently face. One personal testimony was from a young man from Iraq named Aziz, who at 18 lived a simple and beautiful life with his family. Unfortunately, the family lost everything they had when terrorists came to invade his village. Taking nothing with them, Aziz and his family fled Iraq and were allowed to enter Paris, France, where he was able to rebuild his life from nothing. Today, he has graduated from high school and is currently pursuing his studies in a university. Pope Francis was deeply moved by their personal stories, saying that both in their passion and pain, there also is the desire to rise again and face the challenges of life positively, and to run towards their most beautiful goals. The Pope also mentioned the importance of not belonging to the world and the ‘illusions of contemporary man’, and how without realizing it, man is being dominated by earthly pleasures like money, power and fame. Pope Francis added, “The most touching thing in your stories is the discovery that another life is possible. Jesus does not leave us alone in our adventure, especially in moments that put us to the test.” Pope Francis also encouraged the youth to realize that the way for them to be protagonists and to par-
ticipate more in the Church is to ask questions—to exercise that very natural curiosity that all young people possess. He added that the youth should embark on a quest for what is real and true, and not just for those that belong to the realm of theory. He added that this quest
Bishop Broderick Pabillo, DD new CFC Spiritual Adviser CFC International Council Pays Courtesy Visit
MANILA, Philippines ‒ His Excellency The Most Reverend Broderick S. Pabillo, D.D., Auxiliary Bishop of Manila, has been named the new Spiritual Adviser for Couples for Christ. Bishop Pabillo received six of the nine-man CFC International
Council in his office at the Sangguniang Laiko ng Pilipinas when the group paid a courtesy call to the prelate on the morning of October 3. CFC President Michael Ariola, Pastoral Formation Director Rouquel Ponte, Evangelization
and Missions Director Arnel Santos, ANCOP Head Lito Tayag, ANCOP Canada Head Ricardo Cuenca, and Give Kare Foundation Head Joe Yamamoto gave a brief orientation to Bishop Pabillo regarding the initiatives and activities of Couples for Christ in pursuit of its goals of evangelization, formation, mission, and the work with the poor. Bishop Pabillo accepted the assignment from His Eminence Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle. The prelate succeeded Msgr. Allen Aganon, who stood as CFC Spiritual Adviser for the past 10 years. Msgr. Aganon became CFC Spiritual Director after he came back from his five-year mission in Peru. The CFC International Council acknowledged that it owes a debt of gratitude to Msgr. Aganon for having been pastor to the community’s elders and members not only in the Philippines but all over the world. (CFC Global Communications)
Bishop Pabillo Visits CFC sede di Roma Office BISHOP Broderick Pabillo, the new spiritual adviser of Couples for Christ, visited the CFC sede di Roma office. (“Sede di Roma” is Italian for “situated in Rome”). The prelate celebrated Mass on September 30, attended by Philippine Ambassador to the Vatican Hon. Grace Princesa; Ms. Marita Wasan, President of Sangguniang Laiko ng Pilipinas; and CFC Rome members. Bishop Pabillo, in his homily, emphasized Christ's inclusiveness— “For whoever is not against us is for us.” He encouraged CFC to reach out to the laity who are not part of any organization. The Mass was followed by a
sumptuous lunch, with food brought by everyone potluck style. After lunch, Bishop Pabillo gave a talk to CFC Rome members, including Youth for Christ, Singles for Christ and Handmaids of the Lord. He focused on the important role that the laity plays in the Church,
emphasizing that the lay actually consists of 99.9 % of the Church, and therefore carries a significant responsibility in helping form and shape society. The talk was capped by a lively question and answer session, especially on the current situation in the Philippines. (Joe Tale)
should translate to actual practice, particularly in their choice of life and behavior. And that instead of asking “Why?”, the young people should ask “How?” in order to help solve problems. The gathering ended with exuberant dancing, with the bishops tak-
ing time to interact with the young crowd, greeting friends and taking pictures once again. It was a beautiful sight of community and family, of brothers and sisters in Christ, collaborating together to make the world a more suitable place for the youth to grow in their faith.
Liveloud X PH tour goes to Iloilo, Butuan
Liveloud Iloilo
Liveloud Butuan
THE evening exploded with dazzling lights, the cinematic sounds of cymbals, and whirling smoke, breaking the stillness and moving every heart as people jumped, danced and sang together, worshipping God. It was September 29, at the University of San Agustin Gym. This was Liveloud X, Iloilo edition. “I am Home” became the battle cry of everyone inside the stadium, all 2,500 who have found their true home in Christ’s immense love. The concert’s theme was the Chi Rho symbol which in ancient times was a sign that a certain home belonged to a Christian family. This symbol served as their sanctuary in times of persecution. This also became the symbol for modern day Christians that the Holy Spirit is their sanctuary and guide when
feeling lost and needing to be led home to God. A Liveloud Talk, which was a first in the Liveloud Tour Series, was delivered by Ablaze Communications Marketing Manager Keith Janohan to orient everyone on the tour and its theme. Campus-based International fulltime pastoral worker Klin Frances Enon was worship leader. Two sharers, Youth for Christ Aklan YCOM Head Mitch Rentino and Singles for Christ member Tom Angelo Lastica, shared their stories about personal struggles on losing their way and finding their home within their families while serving God. Later in the worship concert, everyone in the stadium received a necklace bearing the Chi Rho symbol as a reminder that in the face of this reckless world, Christians may still rejoice despite
the turmoil and continue to seek nourishment from Jesus. Anchored in faith, the young people were exhorted to “Live Loud, Live Love and Live Christ” by going back to God’s love and bringing His love to their homes. Meanwhile, Mindanao got a taste of Liveloud X on October 13 in Butuan City. Rev. Fr. Mart James Presillas celebrated the Mass while YFC fulltime pastoral worker Bimbo Yerro led the worship there. Two thousand young people prayed, sang, danced, and proclaimed the Lordship of Jesus and His unfailing love. The concert, deemed as the biggest Catholic praise and worship concert in Iloilo City, was open to both members and nonmembers of Couples for Christ. (Ted Hyacinth Aspera for Iloilo; Karmi Morales for Butuan)
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October 15 - 28, 2018 Vol. 22 No. 21
CBCP Monitor
THE PRESIDENT'S CHAIR
REFLECTIONS FROM THE VATICAN
Michael “Shok” Ariola
Joe Tale
Pilgrims' Paradise
“Bawian Mo” I WANTED to have a better understanding of mercy as part of my preparations for the Mission Core teaching night of Metro Manila. I was led to reflect on the Beatitudes, in particular Chapter 7, which speaks of mercy—Blessed are the merciful for they will receive mercy. I felt I needed to start off with a quote from Peter Kreeft. Peter Kreeft is an author and theologian. In his book, he compared mercy to something of great mystery. He said, “The familiarity of the words bends us to this fact: mercy goes beyond reason. I took that to mean that it is something na hindi mo talaga maintindihan at mahirap intindihin. Why? Because it goes beyond justice. It goes beyond what is right. It goes beyond the law. Where justice says, ‘punish’, mercy says ‘forgive’. Where justice says ‘this is debt’, mercy says ‘not that there is no debt but to dismiss the debt’. To say there is no debt would be a lie since justice speaks the truth and even mercy cannot contradict the truth, but mercy can say, “Dismiss the debt.” This was very hard for me. One, and I think it is the same with everybody, as we go through life, we will sometimes feel slighted or offended. It’s a natural reaction. Someone hurts you and the human instinct—the flesh—tells us to to get even. But man is not flesh alone; he is also of the Spirit. But he is not an angel—he is a combination of both.
We are body and soul, we are not just body, we are not just flesh. We are not angels, but we are not pure spirits alone either. We are the union of body and soul—the great bridge of the material and the immaterial. This also means that purely material things like winning the 1.2 billion-peso jackpot in the lotto will not bring us ultimate happiness, because that is just one half of who we are. In order for us to find true happiness, we need to align both our body and soul to the will and to the design of God. When I was new in the Catholic renewal, about three months after my youth camp, I got hurt in a basketball game. My mind kept on shouting, “Get even!”, not only because I know can take the other guy down, but more so because I got hurt. Every time I made an effort to approach and confront the guy, to make “ganti”, or “bawi”, I just couldn’t do it. I didn’t know what was holding me back, because as I’ve said, I could’ve taken the guy easily. But something held me back. Up to this day, I recognize that holding back as the work of the Holy Spirit. I’ve shared this many times - many of you know that my father left us when I was 12, and I carried that hurt until recently. It was not because I wanted to get even by saying “Wala naman na akong pakialam sa kanya,” but rather, it was, “Okay lang kung makita ko siya, okay lang din kung hindi.”
Similar to the story of Angelica Panganiban and Carlo Aquino in Exes Baggage, what will slow me down and make me move on with real joy and happiness, was for me to exercise mercy even when even my mind shouts, “Get even!”. Why? Because mercy shouts, “Forgive.” Our journey towards mercy is a step towards holiness. Holiness is not easy, as defined by Kreeft. It’s a mystery, paradoxical even. It’s very dementing and very challenging. The happiness God has in store for each one of us is born of relinquishment of self and total trust in God—to release the hurts, the excess baggage, and to live a life that is aligned to the will and to the design of God. So, “Bawian mo na.” Sabi nila, the best way to get even is to kill the enemy with kindness. I am not sure if that is an actual quote or inembento ko lang. Kasi merong iba pang nagsabi, “Keep your friends close, but your enemies closer.” ‘Yun kaya ang Christian twist doon? To be slighted, hurt, or wronged is part of the journey, but we again go back to Matthew 5:7, “Blessed are the merciful for they will be shown mercy.” I have wronged, slighted, caused other people pain. And I desire that they would be able to forgive me too. Why? So I could also move forward. And to attain that desire to be forgiven, we need to exercise mercy.
WE ARE discovering for ourselves how Rome and Italy are literally a pilgrim's paradise. One blessing of being here is the opportunity to visit numerous sites filled with history, particularly those related to our faith as Christians. And, more importantly, to reflect on their impact on our Christian history and life. One of these sites is a pilgrim site whose background story is familiar to us in CFC— the place of the martyrdom of St Paul. We visited the area in Rome called Tre Fontane, the site of the actual prison cell and place of execution of St. Paul. His prison cell now forms part of the basement of a church. (many of the holy sites have invariably a church built over them.) It is really just a small and dingy room, which one can only see through prison bars, the same bars that kept St Paul inside the cell then. It was a poignant emotion that overcame me, but mixed with a feeling of holy love, as I gazed at the prison cell. Most likely it was there that St. Paul wrote his 2nd Letter to Timothy, asking him to rekindle the gift of God that he received from St.Paul's laying of hands on him, and to impose the solemn charge of preaching the Gospel, whether convenient or inconvenient. At that time, St. Paul may already have had a sense of his own execution. In such condition therefore, he had all the reasons to grow weak, and even give up, and yet he also wrote to Timothy in the same letter: “...for God did not give us a spirit of timidity but a spirit of power and love and self control.” It was so inspiring how he exemplified this
spirit of power in his own life, even to the last moment! I was with our brother Eric Villanueva (Mission Head for Africa and Europe) and to lighten up the atmosphere, we acted up the role of Paul talking to the younger Timothy (obvious ba who was who?). We tried to be light about it, but the significance of the setting stayed on with us. It was overwhelming that we were right there, where it happened, the setting of the anchor verse of our theme for the year, Rekindle! A few steps from St. Paul's prison cell is his place of execution. Tradition has it that when his head was cut off and severed from his body, his head bounced down the hill. On the spot where his head was cut off, and where it bounced, and where it finally rested, springs of water came forth. The springs of water can no longer be seen, but if one puts his ear close enough to the ground, one is supposed to still hear the gurgle of the water underneath. We heard Mass in the main church that late afternoon. Running through my mind was the martyrdom of St. Paul and the other martyrs who sacrificed their lives, drawing strength from the One who first shed blood so that all of us might live. Contrary to the intention of their tormentors, the faith did not die with their bodies, but even became stronger through the years. Christianity is where it is now, widespread throughout the world, in great part due to the blood that the martyrs shed. They stood firm for the faith, and so must we, maybe in different ways now, for the next generations to understand, and to believe and to love.
CFC Bataan warmly welcomes its 29th year
YFC Metro Manila Couple Coordinators Called to Mission
THEIR mission is to pastor the young and make generations of Christian leaders. This was made clear to the YFC Metro Manila Couple Coordinators during the 2018 Metro Manila Couple Coordinators’ Conference held from September 22 to 23 at the Don Leopoldo Convention Center, Alaminos, Pangasinan. Since being couple coordinators is a mission, Boyet Raval affirmed the delegates on how God finds favor in them. He said, “As couple coordinators, we are favored enough to be able to witness how God moves through the lives of YFC—when we witness them change and grow.” He added, “We are partakers in the mission of transforming the next generation of Couples for Christ, and of the world. We play a big role in mentoring and guiding the youth towards Christ. That is a big blessing in itself, to be entrusted and to be witnesses." Raval’s wife Racel shared, “In the 25th year of YFC, I cannot emphasize enough how blessed we are. We were once couple coordinators. After jumping from one service to another, we can honestly say that the best years of our lives in CFC were spent serving God through YFC.” In the second session, YFC International Coordinator Jeremy Quimpang exhorted the couples, “Our ‘Yes!’ is not an ordinary yes. It is a
‘Yes!’ that will affect many lives, much as Mary’s ‘Yes’ has effected us. Couple Coordinators who go beyond themselves and respond to the call to serve others and God answer not because they are unafraid, but because they saw something greater that fear. The call is to love without hesitation, without limits.” On the other hand, Mel Serrano told the coordinators, “From the anointing, becoming and commissioning that God bestowed upon us, it is the Holy Spirit who empowers us and helps us to be faithful as missionary couple coordinators.” A workshop on Program Collaboration and Culture of the Spirit were also given on the first day by Gerald Manapsal, YFC Advocacies Head, and Ray Docto of the YFC Core. A workshop on the Holy Mass was one of the workshops conducted. Towards the end of the conference, the team stood firm in one conviction, with the recitation of the new YFC Couple Coordinators’ Creed that will remind the delegates of their calling and anointing. The Couple Coordinators Conference is a biennial activity held in Metro Manila and the Philippine Missions. Its primary aim is to equip the Couple Coordinators in their mission of ministering to the youth. (Sarah Abigail Halal)
DAVAO ORIENTAL CELEBRATES 24 ANNIVERSARY TH
The Couples for Christ (CFC) in the Diocese of Mati celebrated their 24 th founding anniversary on September 30 at Capitol Hills, Mati City, Davao Oriental. This year’s theme “Shine”, reflects on Matthew 5:14-16: “In the same way, let your shine before others so
they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.” A highlight of the celebration was the Holy Mass, with His Excellency Abel C. Apigo, DD Archbishop of Diocese of Mati as main celebrant. In his homily, Bishop Apigo reminded the
CFC and its Family Minsitries that everyone has a gift, and that by sharing that gift to others they are allowing themselves to shine like Jesus. Before the Mass ended, the prelate blessed more than 200 new members of CFC and the family ministries. (Kenneth Earl Garcia)
DESPITE the hot and sunny weather, hundreds of members of Couples for Christ (CFC) Bataan celebrated their 29th year as a community, with the theme “Let the Son shine”. The anniversary celebration was held at the Tomas Del Rosario College, Balanga City, Bataan last September 23. Dixie Anthony Banzon, Provincial Area Director of CFC Bataan, said “I am really happy because CFC Bataan reached its 29th year, and because we have been blessed with good weather after the past few weeks of hardships brought about by typhoons. Through the goodness of the Lord, our preparations all paid off! We may have made mistakes along the way but that is no longer important. What is important is to now reflect on the gift of community, which is Couples for Christ.” Banzon said this year’s anniversary theme emanated from the community’s overall theme for this year, “Shine” and further explained, “If you will notice, the back of our anniversary T-shirt says ‘Needing light
for life?’. Wearing this shirt is our way of evangelization, that anyone who reads it will surely get curious about what is printed in front ‘Let the Son shine’.” He added, “This means we should let Christ shine in our lives, for us to possess the light people are searching for.” During the event, community leaders shared their experiences during the worship ceremony. Frederick Taggaoa, a household head, recounted, “Struggles and problems continue to come into our life. When I realized that on top of that. I still had my responsibilities as a household leader, I thought I was probably mistaken in saying Yes to service. However, eventually my Yes became a full Yes and now I even serve as speaker in the talks. Now I can say that I always say Yes to God.” On the other hand, Rosemarie Pineda, wife of CFC West Cluster Head Emy Pineda, shared that in the past 27 years that they have been serving in CFC, she had seen how the community has grown bigger
and stronger, and felt really blessed for being a part of its 29 years because she had seen how several lives have changed by joining the community. Other activities in this year’s anniversary celebrations included songwriting and poster making contests. The Sonshine Parade became a joyous event where everyone enjoyed themselves, singing and dancing to CFC worship songs, and mingling with each other. The celebration of the Holy Mass capped the day-long activity. Woody Peralta, household head from Limay, shared: “Beautiful. Very inspiring because I added to my knowledge about my faith. This is also a good opportunity to be with the members and to fellowship with brothers and sisters.” In closing, Banzon assured that the months leading up to next year’s anniversary, Bataan’s 30th, will be a continuing mission of evangelization and of uplifting its ministries through various activities. (Marimar Ann M. Panti)
CFC Serves in Parilympics 2018 PARTICIPATING teams from the Diocese of Antipolo, Diocese of Imus, Diocese of Malolos, Archdiocese of Manila, Diocese of Novaliches, and The Order of the Augustinian Recollects, converged at the Philippine Columbian Association on October 4, to compete in badminton, bowling and tennis as part of PARILYMPICS 2018. The friendly games was a brainchild of the
late Jaime Cardinal Sin and began about 20 years ago, with the objective of bringing the clergy of the Archdiocese of Manila for a few days of sports and recreation. Fr. Tony Navarette of RCAM was over-all in charge of the PARILYMPICS 2018. CFC Metro Manila Central C, through Gilbert and Loida Ty and their chapter, helped prepare the venue and other logistical needs of the event.
CBCP Monitor
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October 15 - 28, 2018 Vol. 22 No. 21
FROM INFORMATION TO INSPIRATION: The 1st CFC Laguna Communications Summit THE 1ST CFC Laguna Communications Summit was held on October 6 at the Immaculate Conception Parish in Los Banos, Laguna with the theme, “From information to inspiration.” The team from the CFC Global Communications Directorate, Alma Alvarez of CFC Internal Communications, Mary Lebria of CFC Broadcast Media, and Babes Jadulco of CFC Productions shared their insights and knowledge on the scope and initiatives of their respective departments, and presented areas for synergy with the CFC Laguna Communications group. After the plenary presentation, the group broke out to discuss three major components of CFC
CFC Eastern Visayas Holds Regional Planning THE members of the area governance teams from the different provinces of Eastern Visayas gathered at the Iphene Food House in Catarman, Northern Samar on September 29 to 30 for the annual CFC Eastern Visayas Regional Planning. The weekend activity started with worship on Saturday morning, led by the Provincial Area Head of Northern Samar, Raymond Bucu. The Regional Head of Eastern Visayas, Ricky Rico, gave an overview of what the teams can expect from the weekend activities and presented the goals for the planning. To provide inputs for the planning session, the provincial area directors and the regional coordinators for the provinces’ family ministries shared their victories, challenges and accomplishments for the year 2018. CFC ANCOP Global Foundation Inc. representatives also presented the ANCOP Mobile Training that was being launched as a pilot project in Eastern Samar at the same time as the planning. The afternoon session began with vibrant worship led by Ben Cabahug, PAD of CFC Leyte. Updates on the CFC Seniors Program by Frank Noob, the newly-installed Area Head of Eastern Samar, followed. He was followed on the podium by Hermie Sanchez, PAD of Samar, who urged everyone to do their share by being good stewards of God’s creation through the OIKOS presentation. After Rico had shared the Visayas planning output and directions during the Island Planning held earlier in Tagaytay, the delegates grouped
together according to their provincial area for the break-out and planning workshop, with each province discussing their concerns, challenges and proposed action plans. Fr. Sandy Nito Quibal, the director of Family and Life in the Diocese of Catarman, celebrated the Mass after the group workshop. In his homily, Fr. Quibal shared the importance of the roles of the archangels in evangelization and in the ministry of Couples for Christ. The delegates then celebrated the Lord’s Day led by the host PAD, Boy Llano and his wife Ethel. The day ended with a presentation of the planning output by area. On Sunday, Noob opened the day with a spiritfilled worship. Jef Arong, the new CFC fulltime pastoral worker for the Visayas, followed with the presentation of the new reporting templates from the Evangelization and Missions Office. Rico consolidated and recapped the various presentations and plans, emphasizing the focus and directions of the region inspired by CFC’s theme for 2019: “Rekindle the Gift, Fulfill the Ministry, Be Children of the Light”. To cap the planning, Fr. Fred Placa, CFC Northern Samar Spiritual Director, gave an inspiring recollection and celebrated the Holy Eucharist. The participants set out for home rekindled, inspired, empowered and united, eager to fulfill the ministry and be children of the light. (Jef Arong, CFC Fulltime Pastoral Worker for Visayas)
Global Communications – Internal Communications, Broadcast and Production. Each group was further exposed to the details of events management and production, the plan to spread the Family is a Gift advocacy to nonCFC, and the points of synergy between CFC Internal Communications and CFC Laguna Communications. The speakers also provided clarity and direction on the importance of proper documentation of events, archiving information which will become part of the community’s history, from where the next generation leaders will be able to draw inspiration. The Provincial Area Governance Team, represented by
Mhar Angeles, Family Ministries Head, plus 47 potential communicators coming from CFC, the CFC Handmaids of the Lord (HOLD) and CFC Servants of the Lord (SOLD), committed to share information from their respective chapters and ministries, and champion the endeavors of CFC Laguna Communications to spread teachings and formation; spread the Spirit’s movement; spread inspiration and motivation; and spread information. As an offshoot, the participants were asked to commit themselves to be CFC Laguna’s pool of communicators from whom information will emanate, especially in documenting the LAGUNA COMM, C4
CFC Mindanao Senior Leaders hold first Summit in Cagayan de Oro THE First Mindanao CFC Seniors Summit was held over the weekend of October 5 and 6 at the CFC Provincial Center of Misamis Oriental in Cagayan de Oro City. The CFC Seniors Program was born out of the need to address the needs of the senior members of CFC. The Mindanao summit put emphasis on the importance of building strong, collaborative relationships among the CFC Senior Core groups from Mindanao, so that they may better serve the senior members of their respective areas. The objective of the Summit was to raise awareness of the program in each province and increase its capacity to meet the seniors’ increasing demands for spiritual and values formation, assistance on legal and financial issues, health and wellness, social and fellowship needs. All this while exploring opportunities for wisdom sharing, counseling and teaching lessons of life, networking, volunteering for missions, performing chari-
table and spiritual works of mercy, and working with the local parishes. The summit’s specific goals were: 1. to showcase the key role of the CFC Area Senior Core Group in providing and implementing programs for seniors and networking among leaders from Mindanao; 2. to highlight the importance of the Seniors Program in supporting aging senior members across the island, and engaging in dialogues to identify challenges and opportunities for improvement of program implementation and collaborative solutions; 3. address the lack of recognition and promotion in some regions of Mindanao of the vital role of the CFC Seniors’ Program in supporting the community’s mission and vision, as previously discussed at the National Senior Leaders Summit in San Carlos Seminary, Guadalupe, EDSA
last April 7-8, 2018; and 4. to ensure that the annual plans and programs of the senior members in each province are incorporated into the plans and programs of the specific province/area/region. A total of 106 delegates from Mindanao, including Provincial Area Heads Jun Waga of Davao and Romy Booc of Zamboanga del Norte, members of the Area Governance Teams from the different provinces in the island, as well as the Seniors Program Core leaders from the different provinces, attended the conference. The summit started with the celebration of the First Friday Holy Eucharist celebration by Reverend Father Rico Lapinig, who challenged the senior delegates to not allow advancing age to disrupt their service to the Lord. He emphasized that the wisdom of the seniors is most needed now at this time when young people are bomSENIORS SUMMIMT MIN, C4
New ANCOP Community to Rise in Laguna
New ANCOP Homes Turned Over in Bulacan THE LORD continues to bless more people through the CFC ANCOP Shelter Program as evidenced by the recent turnover of 30 homes to as many families in Starville 4 – Tova Vickar CFC ANCOP Winnipeg Community in Bgy. Piel, Baliwag, Bulacan. CFC ANCOP Global Foundation Inc., ANCOP Canada, the family of Tova Vickar from Winnipeg, and the local government unit (LGU) of Baliwag, Bulacan are main partners in the said community. ANCOP Canada President Ricky Cuenca; Baliwag Mayor Ferdie Estrella; Bgy. Capt. Gerardo Tolentino; Provincial Area Head Raffy Ballesteros; and Councilors Dingdong Nicolas and Joel Pascual graced the turnover rites which was held on October 8. CFC Provincial
ANCOP Head Dennis Caparas also presented guidelines for organizing to encourage peace and order in the community. Prior to the ceremonies, 17 out of 30 homes were already turned over to home partners and their families. Profiling of prospect beneficiaries for the remaining units are still ongoing. The first recipient, Lourdes Bernardino, jumped with great joy as she finally stepped inside her new home. Another new homeowner, Mylene Bayani, shared that she and her family are truly happy for receiving the blessing of a home they can finally call their own, without the fear of it being taken away. Aside from receiving the keys to their units, the home partners also received tree seedlings that they need to plant
near their homes. Cuenca assured the new home owners that they will receive more help from ANCOP through the organization’s holistic approach of community building. Other programs available to them are the Education Sponsorship Program and Livelihood Programs, as well as evangelization programs like the Christian Life Programs, Values Formation, and the like. Cuenca reminded the new home owners to take care of their homes and their neighbors while striving to follow the rules and regulations of the program. The LGU is likewise hopeful that they will become a model community, and live not just as neighbors but as brothers and sisters in Christ. (CFC ANCOP Communications)
ANOTHER ANCOP community is set to rise in Bgy. West Talaongan, Cavinti, Laguna, made possible though the generosity of donors from ANCOP Canada International, in partnership with CFC ANCOP Global Foundation (CAGFI), Inc. and the Municipality of Cavinti. Initially, there will be 30 houses built in the community to be named the CFC ANCOP Canada-Municipality of Cavinti Community. Along with the houses, a multi-purpose covered court approved by the Office of the Mayor will also rise. This building will also serve as an evacuation area for nearby municipalities that will be affected by calamities. A new health center has been built near the proposed community. The groundbreaking rites took place on October 9 in the presence of representatives from CAGFI, ANCOP Canada, the local government of Cavinti, and CFC Laguna, as well as the future home partners. The program started with a Mass presided by Fr. Uriel Umali, followed by the blessing of the site. The land was previously owned by Francis Chua and later on donated to West Talaongan Bgy. Capt. Manny Dela Roca. The barangay official expressed his gratitude to CFC ANCOP as
they were used as God’s instrument of blessing to his constituents. The prospective home owners live alongside the Cavinti National Road, but they are scheduled to be displaced due to road widening. Eric delos Reyes, CFC Canada Country Coordinator, at the same time CFC Laguna Provincial Area Head (PAH) and a Board Member of CAGFI, together with Laguna Provincial Area Director (PAD) Boyet Zotomayor, presented to the home partners the blessing that they will receive from CFC. The CFC in the province will take over the values formation program through the Christian Life Program once the profiling of the home partners is done. Sanilyn Balse, a prospective beneficiary, expressed her gratitude to the donors even if the construction hasn’t even started. The anxiety over losing their homes beside the national road was somehow lessened when they learned of this great blessing. Ricky Cuenca, ANCOP Canada President, also assured them that this blessing would be not just about building their homes, but also building their lives through ANCOP’s holistic approach of community development. (Patria Iane Balilla)
CFC Empowered Through ANCOP’s Mission with the Poor Retreat
Ugnayan THE NEWS SUPPLEMENT OF COUPLES FOR CHRIST
Zenaida A. Gimenez Editor-in-Chief
Michael C. Ariola IC Oversight Alma M. Alvarez Associate Editor
Deomar P. Oliveria Layout Artist
Andrelene D. Veloso Editorial Assistant
Evangeline C. Mecedilla Circulation Staff
The Ugnayan News Supplement is published by the Couples for Christ Global Mission Foundation, Inc., with editorial offices at 156 20th Avenue, 1109 Cubao, Quezon City. Editorial trunk line: (+63 2) 709-4868 local 31 Direct line : (+63 2) 709-4856 www.couplesforchristglobal.org cfcglobalcommunications@gmail.com
AS Couples for Christ’s institutional work with the poor, CFC ANCOP has been doing more initiatives to fulfill its mission to answer the cry of the poor. In 2016, ANCOP piloted the “Mission with the Poor Retreat” (MWPR) which aims to empower the members of the community, most especially the leaders, in fully embracing the mission of building the church of the poor. The Mission with the Poor Retreat is a two-day or a whole day retreat composed of four sessions, and an immersion program to any institution or ANCOP site. The sessions are intended to present to the participants the reality of what is happening to those in the fringes of society—
our poor brethren—and how to reach out to them through ANCOP. The retreat is also for the community members to completely understand and acknowledge that their full support and reinforcement are much needed in achieving this purpose. The retreat aims to show that the mission to the poor is a calling from the Lord that needs to be addressed, and the community has been given an opportunity to answer the cry of the poor. MWPR was first introduced initially to Metro Manila and nearby provinces, with Metro Manila Central A as the very first to conduct the retreat in October 2016. This was followed by Metro Manila North A in
November 2017. Metro Manila Sectors Central B, Central C, East A, West B, and East B had their run in the months of 2018 with Metro Manila North B’s MWPR being done in September. The first province to conduct the MWPR was Laguna in August this year. Countries like the Middle East, Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore have likewise conducted the retreat. Upcoming MWPR runs are set in October including Metro Manila West C (October 13), South B (Oct. 20 - 21), and West A (Oct. 27 - 28). CFC ANCOP is looking at bringing the MWPR to every leader and member of CFC, in every province and country where CFC is present. (CFC ANCOP Communications /pmb)
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October 15 - 28, 2018 Vol. 22 No. 21
CFC SOLD USA ‘Rise Above’ at 4 USA Catholic Confabs FOUR American states were set ablaze with Catholic fervor in the simmering summer month of September as Couples for Christ Servants of the Lord (SOLD) joined by CFC men who call themselves True Men of God (TMG) converged for their annual conference with the theme ‘Rise Above’. The conference was held in Washington State, New Jersey, California and Georgia. CFC SOLD International Coordinator Joemar Salumbides flew in from Manila and made the rounds of all the conferences, together with CFC Board of Elders member Manny Garcia. The conference sessions were complemented by different sharers from local chapters. CFC leaders from the four states delivered Session 1 (“Life in the Fast Lane”) and Session 3 (“The Best of My Life”), while Garcia delivered Session 2 titled “The Long Run”. At the end of the weekend, CFC USA SOLD Core Group members and local conference organizers en-
sured participants would truly rise above, rekindling their bestowed spiritual gifts and fulfilling their committed evangelization through CFC. Every year, delegates to this annual Catholic men’s conference look forward to the Fellowship Night. This year, group contenders presented their own interpretation and version of the theme “A Night on Eagles Wings”. The delegates not only brought out the best in terms of faith and evangelization, but also gelled strongly with the team-building “Shoe Tower” and “Square Off” group dynamics. The Lord’s Day and Holy Mass celebration were the highlights of the Catholic men’s confab, with a few side tours of local tourist attractions and food tripping. The conferences were truly brief windows of opportunity to grow more in faith, and in relationship among brothers. (Federico A. Espiritu, CFC SOLD APC)
CELEBRATION OF COVENANT LOVE COUPLES for Christ Canada, through its Gift of Life Ministry, held a Celebration of Covenant Love last September 22, with 51 glowing, radiant and vibrant couples renewing their marriage vows. The renewal ceremony was officiated by Rev. Fr. Carlos Macatangga, parish priest of Cristo Rei Catholic Church in Mississauga. “We remember, we renew, we celebrate”—these words of Fr. Carlos reverberated in the hearts of the couples who pledged their love and commitment to each other. Three of the couples, who have been married for forty
years, led the procession towards the altar. Many of the ladies were dressed in white or light pastel colors and the men wore formal attire—reminiscent of their wedding day. Now on its eight year, the Celebration of Covenant Love is a yearly event done by Couples for Christ to celebrate the wedding milestone of married couples. After the renewal of marriage vows, the couples had a simple reception filled with dancing, eating, singing and non-stop flashing of cameras to capture the wonderful memories. (from www.couplesforchrist.ca)
CBCP Monitor
‘ON FIERY WINGS’ HELD IN KENYA
MEMBERS of the Handmaids of the Lord as well as CFC wives from the dioceses of Mombasa, Eldoret, Kitale, Nairobi, Nakuru and Homabay gathered at Ukarimu Spirituality Centre in Molo, Nakuru last September 21-23 for the 2018 CFC HOLD On Fiery Wings Conference. The opening day started with Holy Mass celebrated by Fr. Brian Tracy after which Thomas Wambugu, CFC Nairobi Family Ministry Coordinator gave a warm welcome to the delegates. The Holy Spirit dancers gave an awesome creative for Talk 1 entitled “The Gift” delivered by Sis. Liz Wachania from South A. The Parable of the Ten Virgins, presented by the HOLD members from the different areas inspired the delegates to be dedicated in the tasks that the Lord has given them. This was followed by Talk 2 entitled “The Solemn Charge” given by Monica Ochieng from CFC Mbita. The Kenya HOLD delegates were grateful for the presence of Connie Saturay, East Africa HOLD Coordinator and Leli Roquel, both from HOLD Philippines, who gave Talk 3 entitled “Daunting Task, Undaunted Spirit” and Talk 4 “Time Has Come”, respectively.
After the sumptuous dinner, the sisters prepared for the Fellowship Night where they gave their group presentations. It was filled with so much joy, a lot of dancing and singing and most of all the delegates were able to bond with one another. Day 2 started with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist with no less than the Bishop of Nakuru, His Lordship Maurice Muhatia officiating. The Bishop expressed his admiration for the women of Handmaids of the Lord for doing the work of God even in the most difficult times of their lives. He encouraged them to continue and be strong for the Lord will always be with them. The last talk entitled “On Fiery Wings” was delivered by Carol Wambugu after which the praisefest leader, Nancy Munene went on stage with the On Fiery Wings dancers leading all delegates to a beautiful dance with their colorful caplets. Together they soared like birds gliding on the wings of God’s love. The program ended with the giving of the different awards amidst joyful and jubilant clapping and chanting of the delegates. (Malou
Clarito)
Global Day of Service 9: Beyond Borders Family Editon LAST September 29 and 30, the CFC Kids for Christ ministry, together with Couples for Christ, initiated the 9th Global Day of Service (GDS) with the theme “Beyond Borders Family Edition”. The GDS is KFC’s work that responds to CFC’s Mission of ‘Building the Church of the Home and Building the Church of the Poor’. The weekend event brought CFC families to what Pope Francis called the peripheries of society, the poor, where God’s love is not easily manifest. KFC members together with their families were challenged to go out of their comfort zones and share Christ’s joy by doing the 7 corporal works of mercy: feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, clothe the naked, shelter the homeless, visit the sick, visit the imprisoned, and bury the dead. In Zamboanga Sibugay, a CFC chapter gathered 16 couples, 11 KFC members and three families. The Bullecer couple, KFC Chapter Coordinators, made sure everyone in their family joined in with the mother, a HOLD member, serving alongside them. They identified five households where the sick
Canada FTPWs Gather for Retreat to Rekindle
SFC Canada Head Appointed Winnipeg Youth Minister THE Most Rev. Richard Joseph Gagnon, Archbishop of Winnipeg, has appointed John Acosta (right) as the Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry for the Archdiocese. This appointment was effective October 1, 2018. Acosta was the National Coordinator for Singles for Christ Canada and the country Coordinator for Couples for Christ in Bermuda. He and his wife Cheryl have three children and are parishioners of St. Patrick's Parish in Winnipeg.
CFC Canada fulltime pastoral workers went on a weekend retreat from August 23 to 25
at Gethsemane Ministries in Wellanport, Ontario. The retreat focused on rekindling
the call of the Lord for the missionaries of CFC Canada. Jun Clarito with wife Malou, both missionaries themselves, facilitated the retreat together with Rev. Oliver Barasa. CFC Canada National Director Reuel Robrigado with wife Owen likewise affirmed the missionaries of their call as radical witnesses of God's transforming love. The retreat allowed the missionaries of CFC Canada to set their hearts on the eternal, praying for more courageous men and women to join them in fulfilling the mission to renew the face of the earth. (Martin Angeles)
LAGUNA COMM, C3
SENIOR SUMMIT MIN, C3
barded by false testimonies and signs of declining faith. He further commented that Couples for Christ must not simply be a “from womb to tomb” movement but one designed to lead people “from womb to the Kingdom of God”. CFC International Council member Lito Tayag and CFC Seniors Program National Core members Boy and Lida Granados were among the speakers. The summit concluded with the inspirational talk of Msgr. Rey Monsanto, the Spiritual Director of Misamis Oriental. The weekend’s sessions were Session 1 (Sizzling in the 60’s/ Marriage
elderly lived, abandoned by relatives in their run down homes. Together as a CFC chapter, they visited these households and shared care packages full of clothes, toiletries, and some food. The kids and their families also prayed over the sick and old people after interacting with them. The activity was made special when the beneficiaries prayed over the kids and families. The group was moved to tears as they felt the Holy Spirit’s presence during the pray over. Elsewhere in the Philippines and the world, families performed other acts of kindness. By doing a simple act of mercy, the kids learned how to be compassionate and understood mercy the way Jesus taught it. Together with their families, these children become world changers in their own little ways. Families always look forward to the annual Global Day of Service. All 12 Sectors in Metro Manila and more than 40 Provinces observed the Global Day of Service 2018, and countries and regions like Canada, the Middle East, Mauritius & Australia likewise took part in the event. (Julius Barbas KFC Fulltime Pastoral Worker, Zamboanga City)
is Beautiful), conducted by Dr. Eliza Jamis, CFC HOLD leader, Session 2 (Towards and Meaningful life as a Senior) presented by Jun Waga; Session 3 (Role of Seniors in Couples for Christ) conducted by Lito Tayag; and Session 4 (Role of CFC Seniors in the Church) conducted by Msgr. Rey Monsanto. Sharers for Session 1 were Bhebie Dalagan-HOLD Leader of Cagayan de Oro; Hermes and Tata Emphasis, ANCOP Workers; Tootsie and Beth Ilogon; and Jimmy and Pina Emameo of Butuan. After the sessions, Boy Granados facilitated the planning, giving each
province time to discuss the Lord’s call for seniors, taking into consideration the learnings and realizations illustrated by the speakers and sharers. The plans and programs that were discussed during the summit will be presented to the Area Governance Team of each province so that they may be incorporated in the overall CFC plans and programs for 2019. At the end of the summit, it was announced that the 2nd Mindanao Seniors Summit will be hosted by CFC SARGEN on October 4-5, 2019, while the 2nd National Senior Leaders Summit will be in Cebu City on February 22-23, 2019. (Antit Macatol)
events across the province. The group was likewise encouraged to identify inspirational materials or testimonies from the grassroots of CFC Laguna which may be shared to CFC all over the province, expanding the reach of CFC Laguna in an effort to complement its evangelization and mission efforts. With the right directions and motivation at hand, the pool of communicators became eager to go the extra mile to ensure that Christ will be proclaimed. The tasks may seem huge and challenges could overwhelm, but CFC Laguna Communications has committed to continue to gather information that
will be transformed into inspiration that will bring Christ to every family in the province of Laguna. The group also pledged to continue to work together with the CFC Global Communications in fulfilling its tasks and goals. CFC Laguna formed CFC Laguna Communications in 2016, drawing inspiration from the anchor verse “… and how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard?” (Romans 10:14) and its vision of “Bringing Christ to every family using appropriate channel of communication” in response to the CFC direction of expanding the reach. (Butsch Borja, CFC Communications Laguna)