The Beloved Weekend

The threat of a single-digit temperature did not stop over 2,000-strong CFC Mission Core from going up to Baguio City for the 2014 The Beloved Weekend. In fact, delegates from the Metro Manila, Philippine, and International Missions were on fire as soon as they entered the CAP Convention Center in Camp John Hay.

As early as 2:30 PM, CFC leaders were lining up to register on the the first day of the Beloved Weekend.

After the recitation of the Holy Rosary, Rev. Fr. Anton Pras, CICM of Indonesia celebrated the Mass, together with Fr. Carolus Patampang (Indonesia), Fr. Pierre Friquin (Mauritius) and Fr. Jacques Piat (Mauritius).

To open the weekend retreat, Noli Medalla of Metro Manila South A led the opening worship.

CFC Executive Director George Campos welcomes the delegates.

After the worship and welcome remarks, the Metro Manila Sectors performed original compositions of songs honoring Mother Mary. Joe Aquilina, CFC Malta Country Head, likewise rendered his own composition, with the active participation of the audience. Emcees Kirby and Michelle Llaban kept the program flowing. The performance by the Metro Manila Sector Heads also brought the house down.

Day 2 marked the start of the powerful talks and inspiring testimonies from CFC leaders. As it is usually done, the recitation of the Rosary and the celebration of the Mass were the first order of the day to prepare the participants throughout the three sessions of the second day.

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Joel Santos of Metro Manila Central C led the opening worship.

Before proceeding to the sessions, CFC Pastoral Formation Director Jun Uriarte gave a prologue on Behold and Ponder. This was followed by Talk 1, Ponder, the Family of Love, by Mannix Ocampo.

During his session, Mannix Ocampo called onstage the first couple leaders of CFC—Manny & Ditas Garcia, Joe & Babylou Tale, Lito & Linda Tayag, Rouquel & Nina Ponte, Joe & Mila Yamamoto, and Joey & Tess Arguelles—and honored them for selflessly committing to serve in various capacities since the early years of CFC. Afterwards, he invited the entire congregation to extend their hands to pray over them.

Talk 2, titled Ponder, the Manger’s Message was given by Arnel Santos. On the other hand, Talk 3, Behold, the New Mission was delivered by Jimmy Ilagan.

One of the highlights of the second day is the Holy Hour, where the CFC leaders spent an hour praying in silence, before the Blessed Sacrament.

Day 3, Sunday, was ushered by the talk of Manny Garcia titled Behold, the Beloved Son. The praisefest, which closed the session, was led by Joe Tale. CFC IC Spiritual Director Msgr. Allen Aganon celebrated the Mass.

CFC Global Communications: Joey Tomas, Jerry Tanigue, Mike Santos, Caloy Rubio, Sam Manuel, Alma Alvarez, Deo Oliveria North B Documentation Team: Bobot and Echie Bautista, Jake and Pat Ayson, Rudy and Grace Plazo, Danny and Marico Noble.