CBCP Monitor
C1
Vol. 17 No. 15
July 22 - August 4, 2013
The News Supplement of Couples for Christ
BELOVED: Singles for Christ Metro Manila Conference 2013 building relationships beyond “eyeballs”, “meet ups” and “hangouts”; • Moments of Love – A photography workshop aimed at showcasing God’s great love; • Shakespeare in Love – Using the power of the pen to tell the world of His love; • All the love in the world – A workshop on marketing, advertising and events planning; and • Loving responses – A workshop for all SFC Chapter Heads. In the afternoon, a plenary workshop on Obedience as Discipleship was led by Fr. Noel Niguid, Spiritual Director of CFC Bataan. Two powerful and spirit-filled ses-
sions were given in the evening of day 2. Session 2 titled Beloved was delivered by Maan Aguirre, member of the SFC International Core Team. Session 3 (Be Loved) was given by SFC International Coordinator Noli Manuel. Right after the talk, participants were led into the Prayer Station activity where they had the chance to experience God’s loving grace. An empowering praisefest followed, led by SFC Metro Manila Fulltime Missionary, Alvin Morada to end the evening. Finally, Day 3 of the Conference, began with the Holy Mass. During the Holy Mass, the new SFC International Coordinator, Noli Manuel, and the new International Core team
was formally installed. They are: Maan Aguirre, Dict Jadulco, Don Vivas, Bob Lasala and Adrian Enaje. followed by the fourth session led by Bob Lasala, new SFC Metro Manila Coordinator and Member of the SFC International Core Team. He gave an inspiring final session which ended with the handing over of the cross to each participant. The entire event ended with a spiritfilled and vibrant praisefest led by SFC Metro Manila Fulltime Missionary, Tox Remojo. It was indeed a great weekend for all the single men and women who attended the conference, reminding them once again that they are truly God’s Beloved.
By Samantha Catabas Manuel God’s love overflowed last July 19 to 21, 2013, during the Singles for Christ Metro Manila Conference 2013. Over 3,500 SFCs from all over Metro Manila gathered at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center for a powerful, inspiring and affirming weekend. Day 1 of the conference began with a Holy Mass celebrated by Bishop Florentino Lavarias, Bishop of Iba, Zambales. After the Mass and dinner, the participants were welcomed by Peter Tumanda, CFC Provincial Area Director of Zambales. This was followed by Rob Escaño, SFC Metro Manila Coordinator, who formally declared the conference open. An evening of flashback and reminiscing marked the official start of the program proper through the “Dekada Nobenta” concert. SFCs had a great time jamming to 90s hits. After the fun and fellowship, Ace Lu, SFC Metro Manila Fulltime Missionary, gave the first session entitled “Love Never Ending”.
The second day of the conference started with the Holy Mass presided by Fr. Dexter Fabie, Parish Priest of San Nicholas Parish. Kiko Loresco of SFC Central A then led the opening worship right after the celebration of the Holy Mass. The entire day was allotted for various workshops held simultaneously in different venues. SFCs were eager to attend their chosen workshops. These are the different workshops conducted in the morning: • Somewhere Down The Road – This workshop challenged the participants on walking unfamiliar paths and welcoming strangers into your hearts; • Way Back into Love – Find ing a home amidst strangers and spreading the warmth of God’s love; • Surf from the Heart – An applied training on being stewards of God’s creations; • 50 First Dates – A challenge on
Love overflowing, clockwise from top left: Bobby Lasala delivering final talk; presentation of new leaders; Fr. Noel Nuguid; receiving the cross.
CFC Thailand Leaders Train at the CFC GMC
Lumen Fidei at the MC Teaching Night CFC Pastoral Formation Office Director Jun Uriarte talked about Pope Francis’ first encyclical, Lumen Fidei (The Light of Faith) at the MC Teaching Night last July 16, 2013 at the Christ the King Parish. In his discourse, Uriarte spoke about the salient points of the encyclical, and encouraged the CFC
Mission Core to read and appreciate the Holy Father’s message. In a nutshell, Lumen Fidei focuses on faith, and complements Pope Benedict XVI’s encyclicals on the virtues of hope (Spe Salvi) and love (Caritas in Veritate). Lumen Fidei may be downloaded from the Vatican website (Encyclical
Letter Lumen fidei of the Supreme Pontiff Francis http:// bit.ly/1402fsF). A video of the MC Teaching Night on the same topic may be viewed at the CFC Multimedia Channel on youtube (http://bit.ly/ CFCchannel).
IC Elects New Officers, Appoints New Directors
By Mon F. Santiago Nine (9) leaders and three (3) priests from Couples for Christ Thailand led by its fulltime workers Jimmy and Naty Lozare, attended a special training at the CFC Global Mission Center (GMC) last June 10-14, 2013 as part of their participation in the CFC Global Leaders Empowerment Convention and the community’s 32nd anniversary last June 18 to 22. The participants came from different parts of the country, namely Ubon, Tharae-Nongsaeng and Surat Thani. The program was organized by the CFC GMC
Evangelization and Mission Office in response to the growth of CFC in the Kingdom of Thailand. The objectives of the training program were to: 1) appreciate the fullness of the life and mission of CFC and; 2) increase the basic knowledge and skills needed to be effective and efficient CFC leaders and partners in mission. The training speakers were led by CFC Chairman and International Missions Director Ricky Cuenca and then CFC Executive Director Melo Villaroman Jr.
In a prayerful and spiritfilled process during the first meeting of the new CFC International Council last July 3, 2013, the IC has elected a new set of officers. Ricardo Cuenca, who is in his last year in the IC remains as the Chairman, while Arnel Santos is still the Corporate Secretary. Replacing Melo Villaroman Jr. as Executive Director is IC first-termer George Campos. Another IC newcomer, Jimmy Ilagan, was elected Treasurer. Both Campos and Ilagan were Metro Manila Sector Heads prior to being elected in the Interna-
tional Council. Villaroman, on the other hand, ended his IC term effective June 30. Aside from the announcement of a new set of officers, the new CFC Directorate Assignments were likewise annouced via a separate Memo. The new Directorate Assignments, which took effect beginning July 4, 2013, are as follows: • George Campos as Evangelization and Missions Director, and CFC Global Mission Center Administrator; • Ricardo Cuenca as the International Missions Director, and Director for BCOP (Building the
Church of the Poor; • Arnel Santos as Metro Manila Missions Director; • Jaime Ilagan as the Philippine Missions Director; • Alromanof Ocampo as the CFC Family Ministries Director; and • Filemon Uriarte Jr. as the CFC Pastoral Formation Office Director. CFC is truly grateful to the Lord for these anointed leaders who readily responded to God’s call to serve His people. As one community, let us constantly pray for these men to be guided by God’s Spirit and wisdom as they serve His people.
Ugnayan
C2 Ricky Cuenca
Cfc as a Missionary Community: The Way Forward CFC is experiencing a springtime of evangelization. The communities are faithful and vibrant. I was excited to meet many new young couple leaders ON FIRE. This is a result of our next generation leadership program which started three years ago. We are doing the same succession leadership in the International Council (IC), shepherding new generation of leaders. What we are doing at the IC will be mirrored in the global communities. The Way Forward Vision And Mission: Our Common Framework CFC is a global organization with a common vision and mission carried out through a system of management for global operation translated into a roadmap of strategies, goals and objectives, measurements and enablers, all serving as basis for action planning CFCwide. To understand CFC as a missionary community, we define our common framework embodied in our CFC Vision and Mission. We cannot move forward as missionaries without starting first from the CFC Vision and Mission. What is the VISION? Families in the Holy Spirit Renewing the Face of the earth. What is our Mission? Building the Church of the Home, Building the Church of the Poor. As global leaders we all know our vision and mission. If we all know this is our vision and mission, why is there a gap between our vision and our results? This vision has been laid in 1991. Is this vision and mission just lip service? Is it because we do not fully understand or comprehend the evangelization and mission work? Do we not have global leaders who can deliver the results? Have we not trained enough next generation leaders to do our quick massive mission work? Is it because we do not make it a priority? Do we not have time to do the mission? Are we lacking in resources? Why is there no urgency? Why is there no critical mass happening? What are the proper handles or entry points to create this resurgence of energy for global massive action? How do we actualize ON FIRE evangelization? The depth of our vision and mission is Global and Comprehensive. Working for God is hard work. It is serious work. It requires sacrifice. We immerse in deep thinking. We do strategic thinking and plot our strategies. We define our tactical moves. God’s work is serious work. Our Mission work is time bound. Jesus had three years. We are not here in perpetuity. We have a start and a finish in our mission work. I have a three year term in the IC. I am on my last year this coming year. Thus, I have the urgency and passion to produce the results by July 2014 when the new set of IC members are elected. We need to train succession leaders to carry on our serious mission. We ask ourselves, what is our timeframe for our action plan? When is our start and finish? We have one year to deliver our action plans. When we reach our deadlines next year June 2014, there are no reasons, just results. In planning for our mission work, we measure our performance. What are our criteria for success? How do we know that we reached our objectives? What are our measurements, our gauge for completion? What are we accountable for? Who is responsible? What are our responsibilities? What is the cost for delivering these results in terms of time, budgets and human resources?
Twin function We are global leaders with twin function. We have a twin function of Building the church of the home and building the church of the poor. Building the church of the home is our evangelization work. The other function, of equal importance is building the church of the poor (BCOP). This is Faith in Action, our active engagement in ANCOP Child Sponsorship, CDP ( Shelter, Health, Livelihood ) Program for challenged communities; supporting Cornerstone in assisting scholars and parents in public schools tutorial and catechetical instruction; participating in Social Development Programs, STMA, the Prisons Ministry, the Sword of Gideon, Migrants Program, OIKOS, CO-OPs. We will be 50 years in 2031 our Golden anniversary. Let’s prepare for the big GOLDEN BOLDLY by our solid planning. Remember our twin functions in building the church of the home and building the church of the poor. That is your challenge to bring the twin functions together to maximum results in your territorial jurisdiction as matrix global leaders. Participating in the mission of home and poor brings us to fullness of CFC mission. A good CFC leader carries the twin functions in his conduct of planning and delivery. Our work is urgent. The time for us to do serious planning is now. There are events and personalities that portray the URGENCY of our Mission at this trying time. We are at the cap of a new generation. The coming of our new Pope is a symbol to the urgency of our mission. OUR URGENT MISSION WORK EXEMPLIFIED BY POPE FRANCIS To SHOW URGENCY in our global mission, we are gifted with a new pope. Pope Francis was elected Pope after the surprising resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. We discovered Pope Francis missionary zeal and sacrifice in the expansion of the church in Argentina. The timing of having him as new Pope puts emphasis on urgent Mission work in the Catholic church. The Pope with us at this time in history is not a coincidence. It is also a signal to us in our time where the gap between the rich and poor has widened and poverty increasing. We are led by a Pope with a resolute passion to work for the poor. In his first official statement he challenged us to open our hearts and minds to help all God’s creature to experience abundance in life. We have a Pope who is not afraid to challenge traditions. He commiserates with the poor in his life of simplicity. He walks the talk by taking out special treatment and gestures reserved for Popes espousing his own simple way of life and avid concern for the poor. He is a resilient evangelizer, a stalwart in spreading the gospel enhanced by his simplicity and charm. He is a living model of a true missionary. (Show DVD of Pope Francis showing the Pope blessing the faithful.) As you can see with the election of Pope Francis, the Lord is showing URGENCY in rapid expansive mission work and truly hears the cry of the poor. The church will move forward with greater intensity in their evangelization work and programs for the poor and so must we. We take a stronger direction towards our work for social justice and liberation of the oppressed by planning our actions in our work with the poor. Pope Francis is a symbol of our time and a call for urgency in our mission by being mission ready.
CFC ANCOP USA Library Opens in Quezon Province
By ANCOP USA Communications
LUCENA CITY – The CFC US Library and Tutorial Center in Dalahican, Lucena City was blessed and inaugurated last June 26, 2013. This was according to Rev. Fr. Martin Mroz, CFC ANCOP priest supporter in the area. Glen Santayana, CFC ANCOP USA Director, who hails from Quezon Province, attended the blessing with his brother Boy together with 32 ANCOP scholars who are studying in Dalahican and Lucena. The Center is a project of ANCOP USA and will serve the needs of ANCOP scholars in the area. At the same time, Fr. Martin, who is originally from Peru, informed Roger Santos, ANCOP USA Executive Director, that he has already made contact with the bishops in Argentina, Chile and Peru regarding the opening of CFC in Latin America. “I know that if God blesses this project, it will come in His own time,” Fr. Martin added. Glen Santayana, assisted by Fr. Martin, cutting the opening Ribbon of the CFCUS Library in Lucena City. Holding candle at center is Boy Santayana.
CBCP Monitor Vol. 17 No. 15
July 22 - August 4, 2013
Cfc NE Luzon Conference and Gmc Caravan Successfully Held
By Mon F. Santiago Top leaders of Couples for Christ and the Handmaids of the Lord (HOLD) in North Eastern Luzon actively participated in the Mid-Year Performance Review and Planning Conference hosted by CFC Isabela at NIA, Cauayan City on July 13-14, 2013. Led by its Region Head Bro. Eric Ylagan and his wife, Sis. Evelyn, HOLD NEL Region Coordinator, the back-to-back conference was participated in by more than 100 participants composed of provincial area heads, provincial area directors, governance teams and HOLD leaders from the provinces of Batanes, Cagayan, Ifugao, Isabela, Kalinga, Nueva Viscaya and Qurino. The objectives of the conference were to present the midyear performance of each CFC province and their plans for the rest of 2013 and to roll-out the programs under the CFC Pastoral Formation Office (PFO) and the support services rendered by the Global Mission Center’s Regional Mission Support and Operations Seminar (RMSOS) group to the regional leaders. On The other hand, the HOLD conference featured a reflection talk, the HOLD pastoral formation roadmap, three (3) Zipporah Saturday talks and review of duties and responsibilities. Team-building sessions were also undertaken in both CFC and HOLD conferences. The goals of the PFO Caravan are to: 1) Share the importance of the pastoral formation program as a means to grow in holiness; 2) Align the chapters to the right CFC Culture by means of understanding the CFC Catholic spirituality; 3) Train the PFO Coordinators in designing a pastoral formation plan for their area; 4) Equip attendees with basic formation skills; and 5) Gather feedback to help in the continuing development of the PFO. However, of the four sessions originally scheduled, only the first two sessions were given due to lack of time. Follow-up meetings for the remaining two sessions are being proposed on
the provincial level. On the other hand, the goals of the RMSOS are to: 1) Explain the Mandate of the CFC GMC Mission Support; 2) Provide a venue to listen to the issues and concerns of the provinces about mission support/ CFC office operations; 3) Understand the relationship of provincial mission centers to GMC; 4) Provide guidelines for provincial operations that is consistent with GMC guidelines; 5) Explain the responsibilities and reporting requirements of areas to GMC. The PFO Caravan was an initial run that is intended to be given to all the regional centers. The RMSO held in the region was the third undertaken in the country. The first one was held in the Calabarzon and Central Mindanao. The first day of the conference was devoted to the performance review and planning conference session hosted by Bro. Eric Ylagan. Bro. Mon F. Santiago, a member of the Evangelization and Missions Office and newly appointed Philippine Missions Coordinator for Northern Luzon delivered an inspirational talk entitled “Our Mission - As Dis-
ciple, Witness and Leader”. Bro. Kirby Llaban, Head of the Pastoral Formation Office expounded on CFC Vision, Mission and Culture, a flagship talk under the PFO caravan while Sis. Mai Dones conducted the workshop sessions. On the HOLD affair, Sis. Evelyn Ylagan gave a reflection talk on “Commitment” . Sis Edythe Avendano, HOLD Luzon Coordinator and Sis. Bernie Cuevas, BOE and CFC HOLD International leader, gave Zipsats 11, 15 and 19 and a review of the HOLD provincial core group members’ duties and responsibilities. Sis. Layle Ancheta delivered a muchappreciated talk on “Secrets of Active Ageing”. The first day of the conference was capped by an anticipated Mass officiated by OLPI Seminary priest Fr. Gerry Daquiaog. Bro. Jimmy Ilagan, a new member of the International Council and recently appointed as Philippine Missions Director and CFC Treasurer and other GMC leaders then held an informal meeting with the top regional leaders. On the second day of the conference, Bro. Jimmy delivered an inspirational talk and an overview of the RMSOS. He was introduced by Bro. Shok Ariola, Head of the Evangelization and Missions Office before his talk. The RMSOS presentation was facilitated by Bro. Ruel Aguirre, Philippine Missions Coordinator. The first presentation was made by Bro. Bernie Cuevas of the GMC’s Human Resources Department, followed by Sis. Fe Demdam on CFC Finance policies, Bro. Ruel on the CFC Global Communications Office, Bro. Keith Janohan on Ablaze Communications, Bro. Jack Ramiso on One Global Data. The back-to-back conference ended with an empowerment pray over of the CFC leaders by Bro. Jimmy Ilagan and by Sis. Edythe Avendano for the HOLD leaders.
Top photo: Jimmy Ilagan meeting with the Provincial leaders; HOLD participants.
‘Sayawan Sa Oxon Hill’ —A Night To Remember
By Cres Reyes & Ruth Bay ANCOP Capital Region regularly sponsors events that primarily bring CFC members together for a cause. One such event is the annual dance for community members, migrants and friends. The event is one of the many efforts aimed to answer the cry of the poor. This year’s event was called “Sayawan Sa Oxon Hill” which was held last June 8, 2013 at St. Columba’s Fr. Dewan Hall, Oxon Hill, MD. During the event, the organizers updated the guests of the various projects of CFC ANCOP, one of which is the annual ANCOP Global Walk, which will be happening worldwide simultaneously in August. After learning of such initiatives, the audience began to realize how great the impact one individual could create if done through concerted efforts. The night of the “Sayawan…” was likewise a night of music and nostalgia as the guests sashayed to music of the 70’s and the 80’s from CFC’s own Above Grounds Band, headed by VeeGee Pineda and guest vocalist, 11-yearold Justin Pineda Fronda. What made the Sayawan different from other dances was that every
move, every sway, every hop, and every twist and flare was for the benefit of our underprivileged brethren. The three-hour dance and sumptuous dinner was truly a night to remember, especially for the members and leaders from different CFC chapters and the local Fil-Am organizations who participated in the event. CFC and ANCOP, through various initiatives, continue to come up with creative ways to increase awareness of social illness, such as corruption, not just by educating the poor and the underprivileged, but also by sharing this advocacy with fellow Filipinos in the United States.
Ugnayan
CBCP Monitor Vol. 17 No. 15
July 22 - August 4, 2013
C3
Joe Yamamoto
Hearts On Fire: The Leader’s Legacy Kneeling before the icon of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and gazing intently at his gentle loving eyes, the faithful in fervent prayer is moved by Jesus’ burning bloodied heart. The message according to the painter, Pompeo Batoni, (1741) was “I give you my heart, let me now receive yours”. The image of Jesus was painted in a relatively small canvas and can be found in one of the side chapels in the Church of Gesu in Rome, the mother church of the Society of Jesus (Jesuit Order). It is a beautiful baroque style church, originally conceived by the order’s founder, St. Ignatius of Loyola. Today, that church houses the tomb of Ignatius and the relic of St. Francis Xavier. The love that Jesus gave in full at Calvary is the same burning love that He continues to pour upon His people. In return, believers and disciples must learn to respond with hearts on fire. The papal exhortations and directions towards the pursuit of New Evangelization assume such urgency in the aftermath of the Pentecost in response to the Great Commission. The message that Jesus gave during his public ministry continue to ring true and relevant, “I have come to set the world on fire, and how I wish it were already blazing” (Luke 12:49). The faithful responds with the prayer, “Come Holy Spirit, enkindle the hearts of the faithful”. Anyone who accepts Jesus into his life would soon realize that He desires for everyone to experience the burning fervor of the transforming love of God. To have hearts on fire should be everyone’s desire. A beautiful and fitting example of a heart on fire is the inspir-
ing story of a Catholic chaplain, who sacrificed all for the love of God. The following is written about Fr. Emil Kapaun, the Roman Catholic military chaplain who died in a prisoner’s camp during the Korean War and was only recently (April 11, 2013) posthumously awarded the United States’ highest military decoration, the Congressional Medal of Honor. A study of his life reveals his extraordinary compassion and heroism. He was lovingly referred to by the soldiers with whom he served in the US Army, as the Shepherd in Combat Boots. Born and raised by Catholic parents in rural Pilsen, Kansas, the young Emil earnestly pursued his vocation for the priesthood. After his ordination in 1940, Fr. Kapaun served as assistant parish priest in his hometown of Pilsen.When war broke out, Fr. Kapaun responded to the call to enter the Chaplain Corps of the US Army, joining the service in August 1944. Despite the danger and difficulties of military life, he found joy in caring for the spiritual and, on many occasions, the physical needs of “his boys,” as he called the men. He served with distinction in India and the Burma Theater and a year after the war in 1946, he asked for a discharge to pursue higher education. Father Emil rejoined the Army in 1948. When the Korean War broke out in 1950, he was shipped to Korea by way of Japan, with the 8th Cavalry Regiment of the famous 1st Cavalry Division. On the field, he was selfless and fearless in serving his men. In whatever condition and circumstance, he administered the sacraments, becoming famous for constantly
risking his life to save others, especially under enemy fire. Finally debilitated by severe malnutrition, dysentery, and pneumonia, Fr. Kapaun died on May 23, 1951 and was buried unceremoniously in an unmarked mass grave with other dead POWs. Chaplain Emil J. Kapaun repeatedly risked his own life to save the lives of hundreds of fellow Americans. His extraordinary courage, faith and leadership inspired thousands of prisoners to survive hellish conditions, resist enemy indoctrination, and retain their faith in God and country. His actions reflect the utmost credit upon him, the 1st Cavalry Division, and the United States Army. Recognizing the amazing saga of Fr.Emil Kapaun, the Catholic Church declared him as a Servant of God in 1993, while at the same time pursuing the cause for his canonization. Related to that move, there are two possible miracles currently being investigated, one in 2008 and another in 2011. Fr. Kapaun remains a heroic example of a priest, whose heart was on fire for God and fellowmen. He epitomized by his life and examples the words of Our Lord on that Holy Thursday night of long ago: “No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for his friends.” (John 15:13, NAB). The Millenial Pope As the health of Pope John Paul II rapidly deteriorated in the last weeks of March 2005, the whole world kept a prayerful vigil. His death on April 2 brought a poignant end to one of the most consequential pon-
tificate in the two millenia of Christian history. Not long after his election as pope on October 16, 1978, John Paul II ignited a revolution of conscience in his native Poland. Pope John Paul II was inevitably drawn to the sphere of global moral conflict by standing up against the evils of Communism. The status quo in the world was shaken and subsequent events set in motion the international drama that eventually led to the collapse of European communism in 1989 and the demise of the Soviet Union in 1991. Unknown to many, Blessed John Paul played a crucial role in the shaping of world history as a consequence of those major events. The courage and resoluteness of the Millenial Pope came from his intense love of God. His heart burned for justice, reform, Gospel proclamation, and righteousness.This flame became the catalyst that engulfed the hearts of countless others to address spiritual malaise, confront evil, the dangers of relativism/ secularism, and fight for freedom. John Paul II was resolutely committed to the quest for Christian unity, and equally dedicated to forge a new strong relationship between Catholics and Judaism, while pursuing interreligious dialogue with an increasingly restive Islam. He fleshed out the title of ‘pontiff’ as one who bridged the huge gaps between religious faith and science. Weigel labelled the encyclicals and writings of Blessed John Paul as the most “intellectually consequential of papal teaching in centuries”. He brought faithful marital love in the forefront of his advocacies and made it an icon of the interior life of the Holy Trinity. One of the greatest , if not
the greatest legacy of the life of Karol Wojtyla was his forty- year struggle against communism that culminated in the fall of Communism in Europe and the breakup and downfall of the Soviet Union without ever firing a shot in anger. Because of the immovable moral stand of Karol Wojtyla against the evils of communism in his native Poland, and the rest of the world under Soviet hegemony, he was considered by the communist masters their mortal enemy, the very threat to their existence. There are still those who believe that the unsuccessful assassination attempt against the life of John Paul II on May 13,1981 was part of that destructive plan. God had other plans though because John Paul II miraculously survived and many have come to believe that Mother Mary took John Paul under her special care and protection. Pope John Paul II continued the struggles against the evils of communism ending finally with the tearing down of the Berlin Wall in 1989 and the ignominous implosion of the Soviet Union in 1991. As an important detail, John Paul II had the full support and backing of two other powerful icons of the waning years of the 20th century, Ronald Reagan and Margaret Thatcher. John Paul II’s burning heart for good and righteousness was the powerful catalyst for world change. It attracted and galvanized to action other hearts on fire. Epilogue Blessed John Paul II and Fr.Emil Kapaun are timely and moving inspirations for those who want to seek their higher life’s purpose that can only be in God and with God. As dis-
ciple of Christ, we are all called to witness to that personal and intimate journey with Him. It is comforting to know that He is the one who seek us and draw us to him-” It was not you who chose me , but I who chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit that will remain...” (John 15:16) Opening the doors of our hearts to him, He ignites a flickering flame that is small at first but grows bigger and more intense with time. That flame may be of love, of compassion , of prayer or service but however it turns out to be , it is surely for our greater good.After all his assurance remains steady and unchanging -” For I know well the plans I have in mind for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare, not for woe. Plans to give you a future full of hope. (Jeremiah 29:11). While Pope John Paul II and Fr. Emil were called to priesthood and then beyond to lead extraordinary lives and purposes, all of us ordinary people can still be used by God in extraordinary ways. But even in the ordinariness of our simple lives, we can have hearts on fire that bear witness to being salt of the earth and light to the world. At the tail end of a brief visit to Rome that brought an initial encounter with the Sacred Heart painting in the Church of Gesu, that visit ended with reflection time of the statue of Ignatius at the House of the Jesuits, near the St. Peter’s basilica, at the base of the statue are the words - “ Ite inflammate omnia” Go, and set the world on fire! God has already our hearts on fire, it is time to move forward in the power of the Holy Spirit.
CFC ANCOP Canada Turns Over Encountering Christ In Ancop 25 Houses in Paniqui, Tarlac
By Vida Cuares
By Vida Cuares The Honorable Miguel C. Rivilla, Municipal Mayor of Paniqui and the CFC Tarlac Provincial leaders headed by Philip Corpuz welcomed guests during the recent turnover ceremonies of the CFC ANCOP Community Vancouver Homes in Tablang, Paniqui, Tarlac. CFC and ANCOP guests Eric de los Reyes, President of CFC Ancop Tekton Foundation; Greg and Tess Parillas , National Chairman, Ancop Canada; Temi Pangilinan, President of Ancop Canada; Jimmy Arzadon, Ancop CanadaVancouver; and Jun and Malou Clarito of Ancop Canada-Toronto
graced the momentous event. The ceremony started with a celebration of the Mass by Rev. Fr. Charles Corpuz, followed by the blessing of the units. The symbolical key, as well as a certificate of ownership was presented to each of the first 25 unit owners. Mayor Rivilla, Eric de los Reyes , the CFC Elders and all the Ancop Canada guests led the awarding. Overwhelmed by the initial completion of houses and the oneness shown by the homepartners, Jimmy Arzadon of Vancouver pledged to encourage more donors to support the
funding of the required number of houses in the community. In his message, Mayor Rivilla also reminded the homepartners to treasure the gift that God gave and make CFC Ancop Vancouver Homes a disciplined community , emphasizing on living a life with the guidance of the Lord and the elders. The husband and wife team of Lito and Marita Policarpio, BCOP/ANCOP Head of Tarlac facilitates the continuous transformation of the whole community through values formation training and teachings on Christian living.
In June 17, 2013, CFC Ancop Tekton Foundation conducted a one (1) day tour known as ENCOUNTERING CHRIST IN ANCOP. The tour was participated by 18 CFC Canadian guests that visited 5 Ancop Canada funded sites in Metro Manila namely: Markham – Villa Monique Homes in Pamplona, Las Pinas, Save the River Homes and Edmonton-Malugay Homes both in Paranaque, VancouverAvanai Homes of Quezon City and Calgary-Camia Homes in Caloocan City, these sites are in various stages of community transformation. The tour provided venue for the guests to interact with the homepartners, children and different stakeholders in the community and the experience of visiting the sites in the current state and progress of development. The day’s event started with the celebration of the mass at Markham Homes, followed with an informal orientation and brief
community tour. A social interaction among homepartners, sponsored children local CFCs and the guests happened while having breakfast. Sounds of the drums from the Ati-atihan group provided the music that reverberated in the community. In every visited site, guests were welcomed by the community with warm hospitality. Homepartners prepared short programs to share their stories of thanksgiving, conversion, and transformation. The Program Stewards also provided
the guests with site orientation, updates and brief tours. Last stop of the activity was at Anthony Lee Center, Amparo where dinner was served. The Canada sponsored children from North A (Amparo, Tala, Bagong Silang and Franville), performed dances to entertain the guests. After dinner, the group with the attendance of Ricky Cuenca, CFC Chairman of the International Council and Roquel/Nina Ponte, CFC Council Member shared their thoughts and experiences of the tour. Despite the heavy rains, the day’s long journey was capped with fireworks display. The tour was spearheaded by Eric de los Reyes, President of CFC Ancop Tekton Foundation, BCOP Coordinator and Canada Country Coordinator. Canada participants were: Greg/Tess, Parillas, National Chairman, Temi Pangilinan, President, Jun/ Malou Clarito, Council Member; Jimmy Arzadon, Ancop Canada – Vancouver; Alex Ascano, Francis Almeida, Francis Yap, Russel and Menchie Nazareno, Cesar Rodas, Charlie /Malou Hael, Ferdie/ Mariel Velasco and Vouleen/Eden Ben.
Cfc Ancop Usa Donates $4,300 to Oklahoma Victims By ANCOP USA Communications CFC ANCOP USA donated a total of $4,300.00 to the victims of the destructive tornado that hit Oklahoma City last May 20, 2013, which killed 24 people, including 9 school children, and rendered thousands of residents homeless. An online appeal for donation was launched on May 21, 2013 by CFC ANCOP USA at http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/ ancopgivelove/oklahomavictim. As of the June, the community has raised a
total of $4,540.00, including $2,500.00 sent in by CFC ANCOP brethren from the United Arab Emirates. The ANCOP USA donations were coursed thru the Catholic Charities in Oklahoma City ($1,300.00) and New York City ($2,000.00), St. Andrews Catholic Church in Moore, OK ($600.00) and St. Mark The Evangelist Parish in Norman, OK ($400.00). In separate thank you notes, Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan of New York, Presi-
dent of United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) and Archbishop Paul S. Coakley of Oklahoma City, both expressed gratitude for the initiative of CFC ANCOP USA. A donation of $600.00 was also given to Fr. Jack Feehilyl, Pastor of St. Andrews Catholic Church in Moore, OK, one of the most devastated towns of the May 20 tornado. The check was handed by local CFC leaders Roy and Hazel Cabanez and their son John.
The News Supplement of Couples for Christ 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 23 Direct line : (+63 2) 709-4856 www.couplesforchristglobal.org cfcglobalcommunications@gmail.com facebook.com/CFC.Global.Mission
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Cfc Tarlac Celebrates rd 23 Anniversary
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 17 No. 15
July 22 - August 4, 2013
CFC Greece Visited by Top Leaders
very memorable anniversary celebration. With honor and glory to the Lord, the entire membership and leaders of CFC Tarlac is grateful for another community milestone.
(L-R) CFC Athens’ Felino LLacuna; Roger Santos, CFC Country Coordinator for Greece; Charmaine Aviquivil, Philippine Consul General in Athens; Dr. Mila Yamamoto and Dr. Joe Yamamoto, CFC Europe Continent Overseer; Mayet and Luis Ilagan, CFC Athens Area Head
CFC Leaders celebrate with Tarlac on their 23rd anniversary
CFC Tarlac celebrated its 23rd anniversary last June 1, 2013 at the Paniqui Greenhouse Pavillion, Paniqui, Tarlac with the theme: “Balik-Tanaw sa Katutubong Sayaw”, as a way of honoring and glorifying the Lord Jesus Christ for His blessings throughout the years. Gracing the occasion was the Hon. Mayor Miguel C. Rivilla of Paniqui, and of CFC elders, Melo & Nini Villaroman and Regional Head Romy Alfaro and wife Edith, who delivered inspirational messages.
Provincial Area Head (PAH) Omy Santos his wife Fe were likewise present to rally CFC Tarlac to be always on fire for the service of God and love of neighbor. Other leaders present were Vic Yamamoto, PAH of Bataan; Pete Corpuz, PAH of Nueva Ecija and Rey Atesor, PAH of Zamabales. CFC Tarlac Spiritual Director Rev. Fr. Elmer B. Gonzales celebrated the Mass. CFC Tarlac’s gathering together with joy and the spirit of oneness with the Almighty God was, indeed, another
Melo & Nini Villaroman render a song
MM Campus-based Youth Redefine ‘Partying’
Flashing lights. Pulsating music. Dance mob. Free-flowing drinks and whatnot’s. This could be a typical party scenario where young people spin, turn, twirl and have a “good time” till everyone ends up stoned, drunk or just too tired to head home and eventually crashes into someone else’s bed. But if you add in an opening prayer, praise and fashion, inspiring exhortation and a vibrant praisefest, then the
party ideal of having fun, of friendship and enjoying freedom is coupled with faith. And what do you get? The YFC Campus Fresh Party! Last July 20, 2013, the Metro Manila YFC Campus-based Communities gathered about 1,000 YFC and non-YFC freshmen from various universities and colleges at the College of St. Benilde to the Campus Fresh Party 2013. Dubbed “Feel the New Vibe”, the party was an
avenue for the youth in campuses to be introduced to the YFC lifestyle. The event likewise aims to become an initial step for the young to desire to be part of the ministry. To get the crowd into the party mode, several members of YFC performed a flash mob dance. This was immediately followed by a dance battle where participating teams were given a minute to showcase their talents in freestyle dancing. The Praise ‘n Fashion showcased ABLAZE apparel and Mission-Ready (MR) merchandise which appeal to the young. After which, the a group of sharers expressed their convictions about God’s greatness through Fliptop, a show of wit in extemporaneous rap. As a fitting end to a fun Saturday night party, Joed Tapar of North B Campus Sector Head led the youth into vibrant worship. With the YFC Campus Fresh Party, who says faith cannot be synonymous to fun, friendship and freedom?
ATHENS, Greece – As part of its “new evangelization” efforts around the globe and to empower CFC members in Europe, four (4) top leaders of Couples for Christ from Manila and the United States, together with their wives, conducted powerful and spirit-filled activities: a talk on the Holy Eucharist, held a Christian Life Program (CLP), an assembly and launched ANCOP’s work for the poor to the members, leaders and aspiring members of CFC Greece from July 6-9, 2013. The recently-appointed CFC Country Coordinator of Greece, Roger Santos, was also introduced to CFC members in the area for the first time. Dr. Joe Yamamoto, CFC Overseer for Europe, gave a pastoral talk on the relevance and importance of the Holy Eucharist in the spiritual journey of CFC members. He likewise introduced the Bible Journey that was launched earlier in Geneva. The Bible Journey aims to enhance the foundation knowledge on
the Holy Scriptures among CFC members. This will complement the local CFC thru a continuing study on basic Catholic teachings, thus, equipping them with the basic foundations of the Catholic faith. These teachings aim to help CFC become prepared, effective and passionate in the work of evangelization and family life renewal. Dr. Yamamoto, in clear and simple statements, explained the meaning of the eucharist to both existing CFC and aspiring members composed mostly of Filipino Overseas Foreign Workers (OFW’s) in the country. On another occasion, the CFC Leaders met with the PH Embassy Consul General to discuss ANCOP Projects - Global Pinoy Idol and Health Forum for Migrant workers. The CFC leaders also met with Archbishop Nikolaos Foscolos to seek cooperation and possible partnership with CFC ANCOP, its activities and work for the poor.
(L-R) Mayet Ilagan, wife of Luis Ilagan, Area Head of Greece; Fr. George Altouvas; Roger Santos, CFC Country Coordinator for Greece; Archbishop Nikólaos Fóscolos of the Archdiocese of Athens; Dr. Mila Yamamoto and Dr. Joe Yamamoto, CFC Europe Continent Overseer
Passion for My Mission: Nairobi, Kenya By Malou Clarito Last April 17, 2013, my husband Jun and I flew to Nairobi, Kenya from Toronto, for a 6-week mission trip. We have been blessed to work as a couple fulltime pastoral worker (CFPWs), and would like to share with you our recent mission adventure.
bership is very strong in Don Bosco Parish because of the support of the Parish Priest, Fr. Mathew Phutumana, we paid him a courtesy visit as well and gave him an update on the work of Couples for Christ globally. His support and guidance made it possible for our community to increase in number thru his open invitation to all
Jun and Malou Clarito with His Grace Archbishop Boniface Lele of Mombasa, Fulltime Pastoral Worker Emmanuel Muinde and Area Leaders Margaret and John
First in the long line of activities was a privilege for Jun and I, Emmanuel Muinde, our Kenyan fulltime worker (FTW), and our local CFC Heads to meet with the parish priest of St. Austin Parish, Fr. John Mbinda. Fr. John was kind enough to give us the opportunity to announce the forthcoming Christian Life Program in his parish. He also conveyed his appreciation to CFC for the community’s work in strengthening family relationships and for the local CFC’s full support for the parish. The following weekend, we paid a courtesy visit to the Auxillary Bishop of Nairobi, Bishop David Kamau. Bishop David was instrumental for us to meet his Eminence John Cardinal Njue and to have breakfast with them at the Archbishop’s palace. Both of them graciously agreed to give their recorded messages for the 32nd CFC anniversary and the Global Leaders Empowerment Convention that was held in Manila last June. Moreover, Bishop David reiterated his desire for CFC to spread in other areas so that more families will be renewed. Since Couples for Christ’s mem-
parishioners to join our Christian Life Programs. Aside from calling on the clergy, Jun and I facilitated the conduct of the Marriage Enrichment Retreat II at the Donum Dei Retreat House in Nairobi. The weekend retreat ended with the hearts of the couple participants renewed and their passion and love for each other strengthened. On May 6, 2013, we headed for our brothers and sisters in Voi and Mombasa, an 8-hour trip by bus from Nairobi. We were able to give a short teaching there and an update about our global community. Likewise, we were able to invite His Grace, Archbishop Boniface Lele of Mombasa to attend the 32nd CFC Anniversary in Manila. He travelled to Manila together with other Kenyans composed of five (5) couples to attend the GLEC and concelebrate the Mass at the Luneta. We also paid a visit to the Parish Priest of Voi, Rev. Fr. Steven Osiche, who encouraged us to focus also on the young couples. He said that this particular segment of society also needs direction and CFC can play a big role in molding and giving them guidance
as they start as young couples or as young families. After arriving from Voi and Mombasa, we prepared for another activity. This time it was meant for the men only. Aptly called “ABBA FATHER”, our CFC brothers were given teachings about the love of the Father. While they were doing their personal letters for their loved ones, their respective families surprised them with their presence as they read their prepared letters. It was indeed a day for the fathers as they were reminded of their roles as head of the family and how they can imitate the Father’s love for us. On May 17-19, the Kenya National Council Retreat was held at the retreat house ran by the Franciscan sisters. The retreat brought the National Council to their dreams and plans for CFC Kenya for the next 3 to 5 years. We were blessed to have Bishop David Kamau, Rev. Fr. Tadeo Timada and Bro. David Makonnen as speakers for the retreat, while Jun facilitated, assisted by Onnel Tolentino. We were honoured by a visit by the Bishop for the Military Ordinariate, Bishop Alfred Rotich, who brought and endorsed to us a very young couple who will join the next Christian Life Program. Our Family Ministries, specifically the SFC, is growing with their recent dedication of 23 participants. Not to be left out, the SFC also held two fun and spirit-filled activities—the Princess Diaries for the single women, and Knights Tale for the single men. The CFC Youth also kept themselves busy with their own activities. Participants included young people from the different surrounding schools namely, Divine Word Parish, Twilight Secondary School, Our Lady of Mercy Primary School, Carmervale Catholic
Fr. Mathew of Don Bosco Parish
Primary School, Donholm Catholic Primary School and Kenya Girls High School. As for the Kids for Christ, part of our program was to give guitar lessons to students at the Carmervale School. KFC is present in the following schools: Carmervale Catholic School, Our Lady Primary School and Donholm Catholic Primary School. We had the opportunity to join a few Handmaids of the Lord household meetings so much so that even though some of the members could only speak Swahili, the local dialect, it did not become a barrier in our sharing about the goodness of the Lord. It was also a joyful experience to meet the 15 Canadian-sponsored children from Soweto. We met with the parents of the sponsored children, gave them an insight about CFC ANCOP, and told them how their families are being cared for by our brethren from Canada. The parents of the sponsored children were very happy and thankful for the support that their children receive. Fr. Jose Eudes dos Santos, SVD, spearheaded the ANCOP program in his parish. As a gesture of appreciation, he offered to say Mass for all the sponsors and was appreciative of the work of CFC in his parish. Our hearts were filled with joy when we visited one of the outreach programs of CFC, the Remand House, a juvenile rehabilitation centre for the young who have been charged for offenses against the law, and for children abandoned by their parents. CFC members took turns in going to this centre every Saturday to give values formation, teach Christian songs, do fun games as well as celebrate the children’s birthdays with a simple party. These activities help make the children feel they belong to a family who love them and care for them. Our CFC community in Kenya is very much involved in helping the poor and the needy. Another place they are supporting is the Missionaries of Charity. The children being taken to this house are those with special needs,
Mission accomplished, from top: visiting and breaking bread with our brethren from Voi; the ANCOP Canada sponsored children smile for the camera; Marriage Enrichment Retreat participants; 23 new SFC members were dedicated while we were there.
those with physical challenges and who are mostly bedridden. Our CFC team went there with food and other necessities while showing our care by, among other things, feeding them or washing and folding their clothes. As we headed home back to Toronto, our hearts were filled with gladness knowing that God has given us the privilege to serve Him in Kenya. Although laden with sacrifices, God has taught Jun and I to be joyful in service and to always rejoice in everything He has done for us.