CBCP Monitor
C1
Vol. 18 No. 15
July 21 - August 3, 2014
The News Supplement of Couples for Christ
IC Recollection and Election of CFC Officers By Bernie Cuevas Fr. Benedict Lagarde Jr. MJ, conducted a solemn recollection for the International Council in preparation for the elections of the CFC Officers for 2014-2015 attended by all the 9 IC members and their spouses. He opened the recollection with verses from Psalm 63: “My soul thirst for you” about David’s ardent longing for God. He said that what matters most is our quest for God, our hunger and thirst for God. This ardent longing can lead us to give up even precious possessions. He posed to them the questions “ Are we doing what we are supposed to do?” and “Are we where we are supposed to be?” and stressed that there is no such thing as better, but only different, speaking about leadership. He recalled the story of the call of Moses in Exodus and reminded the elders that as leaders, they have to accept the fact that like Moses, they might not see and harvest the fruit of their labor. They should be prepared that sometimes they will not even be thanked, mentioned or remembered for the good things they have done. What is essential is the humility to recognize and accept that God is the leader, and they are just instruments. He also reflected on Deuteronomy 31: 1-8 on leadership transition. These verses speak about the leadership succession from Moses to Joshua. It was Moses himself who summoned Joshua and told him in front of all the people of Israel that God will be with Him and that he should not fear or be dismayed. He will lead them to the Promised Land. It reminds leaders to be steadfast, and not to feel unworthy because it is not about them, it is about the Lord. God always intervenes in the life of His people. Before the ending the first session, he exhorted CFC about the need for continuing formation. Formation is what makes Jesus alive in CFC. He told CFC to “put your money where your mouth is”. To strengthen formation means to put budget in formation. To this, all IC members agreed. The celebration of the Holy Mass followed the first session. The homily centered on the gospel reading about the old and new wineskin. He said that some think that new ones are the new wineskins and the old ones
MCG Gathering Prayover of the IC Officers: Joe Tale, Chairman; George Campos, Executive Director; Arnel Santos, Corporate Secreatry; Jimmy Ilagan, Tressurer. Sharers: Mila Garcia and Edwin Cruz.
are considered old wine. However, when the IC composition changed, the whole IC became new wine. After the mass, Fr. Benedict led them to reflect on John 13, Jesus washes the disciple’s feet. He said this was a dramatic event. Before washing their feet, He already knew that most of them will abandon him and some will betray him, yet he willingly washed their feet setting the example for leadership. He said this is the drama of leadership, leadership in action. It is an undeniable love of a leader and this is the same undeniable love of God that sustains CFC in its mission. He then led the elders to ponder on the essentials of what it means to follow Jesus by reading John Chapters 14-17. Before his arrest, passion and crucifixion, Jesus prepared them for the time when he would leave them by speaking to them about the true essence of leadership. Fr Benedict gave the elders time to ponder of the readings by leading them to an individual Lectio Divina. They were asked to choose a verse from the readings that spoke to them and asked them to write it and post it on the board so that everyone can read the inspired verses for each of them. Most chose verses from John 15 about the vine and the branches, abiding in God and bearing fruit that will remain. Other reflections came from John 17 on people being gifts of the Father to Jesus and John 14, do not let your hearts be troubled. As the recollection was about to end, Father cited John 21 when Jesus appeared to his disciples in the sea of Tiberias. The very essence of this reading is Jesus’ love and forgiveness. The resurrection allowed Jesus to show his disciples that they were forgiven for abandoning and betraying Him. He prepared food for them and ate with them. He then tasked Peter feed His sheep and follow him. Jesus taught us forgiveness. He did not hate any of his disciples for what they have done. He showed us his forgiving heart. This is the same message for us in CFC. We are to be a forgiving a community. This is what will set us apart for the Lord. After the recollection, the IC members spent 1 hour in silent contemplation in front of the Blessed Sacrament listening to Jesus as a preparation for choosing who will lead CFC.
CFC Global Institute Foundation, Inc. Overview CFC GMFI. (e) To give recognition and confer awards to CFC members, clergy, and/or partners for outstanding achievements in promoting and attaining the mission and vision of CFC GMFI. (f) To do other acts and things, necessary, desirable or appropriate for the attainment of the above-mentioned purposes.
The CFCI logo, reflects the long term vision of the institute to become God’s instrument in forming “other Christs”.
Nature The complete name of the organization is “CFC Global Institute Foundation, Inc.” Its short name is “CFC Institute” or “CFCI”. It is a subsidiary body of Couples for Christ (CFC). Although the CFC Institute is a separate foundation with its own Board of Trustees, the CFC International Council exercises oversight responsibilities over CFCI. Primary Purposes As stated in its Articles of Incor-
poration (Section 2, paragraph 1), the primary purposes of CFCI are: (a) To provide training and capacity building modules on evangelization and missions, pastoral formation, marriage and family life, social development, and leadership and effective governance for the members and leaders of CFC GMFI and other interested individuals and parties which serve and promote the mission of Couples for Christ Global Mission Foundation Incorporated (CFC GMFI).
(b) To foster research, development, and innovation to create new dynamic approaches among its staff and students to further the attainment of the mission and vision of CFC GMFI. (c) To be an advisory body for the top leadership of the CFC GMFI on policies related to promoting and attaining the mission and vision of CFC GMFI. (d) To store, share and manage knowledge and materials to promote and attain the mission and vision of
Programs and Activities Based on the primary purposes stated in its Articles of Incorporation, CFCI will have the following 5 distinct programs and activities: • Education, Capacity Building and Training CFCI will develop and offer programs of degree and non-degree courses that will serve and promote the mission and vision of CFC. Initially, only nondegree courses will be offered. But the long term goal is to develop CFCI into a university, perhaps in 20 or 30 years. The New Era University, for example, started as a New Era Educational Institute in 1975. But it was only in 1977 that it was formally incorporated as a private non-stock, non-profit educational institution offering vocational and technical courses. In 1981, it was renamed New Era College and recognized by the Department of Education,
Culture and Sports. It was only in 1995, or 20 years later, that it was granted university status by the Commission on Higher Education and renamed New Era University. The Maryhill Institute of Theology was established in 1972 by the Philippine Province of the Congregation of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (CICM). It offers General Theology Program Course (4-year degree course), Adult Theology Program Course, Summer Theology Courses, Mission Studies, and Other Activities. The Mission Studies are 1- or 2-day lectures on various topics given by invited lecturers. Other Activities are lectures on non-religious topics such as health and wellness. CFCI may initially offer: 1. non-degree courses or 2. lectures in selected topics, as well as 3. language courses (e.g., Spanish, French, Chinese, etc) in line with the mission and vision of Couples for Christ, in particular, the need to equip its missionaries with language skills and the knowledge to effectively proclaim the Gospel and accurately tell the story of Jesus. CFCI/ C3
Ugnayan
C2 Joe Tale
Let the Son Shine Another storm has passed. The winds have been stilled. The rains have stopped, even if momentarily in this monsoon season. Of course, we now know that storms just don’t disappear (although they do eventually), but actually travel themselves, and may be wrecking havoc somewhere else. We continue to pray for those in the storm’s path. But for now, for us, the sun shines again, with its brightness, with its warmth. Thank you Lord. In the aftermath, we see the storm’s impact—debris of uprooted trees, branches and leaves strewn all over, roofs blown away, vehicles hit by fallen trees. Then we hear more, sadly —flooded areas, devastated farms, people injured, lives lost. A storm always brings with it a heavy toll. But storms, while causing damage, also bring out the best in people. Stories of destruction are matched with inspiring stories of heroism, of courage, of sacrifice, of love. Through the darkness of storms a light always shines, a light that is never extinguished, a light that
leads to a golden sky, for it is the light that comes from the Son. “Let the Son shine” is how we in CFC call our disaster response program when calamity and storms strike. I take this time to honor the brothers and sisters, who, out of their love for the Son and for their neighbor, get out of their comfort zones and spring into action to help those who are in need during times of calamity. “Let the Son shine”, initiated by Singles for Christ, is such an apt name. In disasters, in addition to food and relief goods, in addition to reconstruction of homes and damaged infrastructure, more than everything else, we share the Son, Jesus, and let His brightness shine and overcome the darkness of every seemingly hopeless situation, the darkness of every injury and sickness, the darkness that an overwhelming sense of helplessness brings. Actually, it is not only during storms and disasters that we should let the Son shine. In the everyday situation of our lives, the Son’s brightness should shine ever brightly. I thus take this opportunity to honor not
only those who respond during calamities, but all of you brethren in the CFC family, who day in and day out, without fanfare, steadily, faithfully, simply and humbly, even when no one is looking, bring the brightness and warmth of Jesus in your homes, families, neighborhoods, workplaces, in places near and far, indeed to the ends of the earth. This is probably what prompted Archbishop Jose Palma of Cebu to exclaim during our 33rd anniversary last June—Couples for Christ, you are our hope, Couples for Christ, you are our joy! By the grace of God, nurtured by Mary, may we in CFC continue to let the Son shine wherever and whenever, storm or no storm. Not only in song do we burst out “Shine, Jesus Shine” but more importantly in the lives we lead. May we be alter Christus and reflect the Son where we are planted, such that, at the end of the age, imperfect as we are, may we be worthy as the wheat in the parable and become “the righteous (who) will shine like the sun in the kingdom of the Father”. (Matthew 13:43)
CFC Leyte Stages ANCOP Global Walk
CBCP Monitor Vol. 18 No. 15
July 21 - August 3, 2014
CFC ANCOP Builds First Post-Yolanda Shelter in Leyte
By Raymond V. Bucu "Finally, the long wait is over!" exclaimed Mike Mendoza, a member of Couples For Christ (CFC) in Tacloban, Leyte and head of the Project Implementing Team of the CFC ANCOP Shelter Site in Bgy. San Agustin, Palo, Leyte, as the foundations for the first shelter units were laid and prepared. The shelter project is the first CFC ANCOP community to rise after the typhoon Yolanda struck the town in November 2013. Yolanda (international name Haiyan) was the most devastating calamity that have ever hit the Philippines in recent history. The typhoon left thousands dead and many more homeless as winds and floods caused by the ensuing storm surge inundated the area. Many are hoping to benefit from ANCOP's shelter project due to the sheer number of victims left by the typhoon. Mendoza said that it has been more than eight months since Yolanda, yet thousands are still left to fend off for themselves despite massive aid that poured into the province. Many typhoon victims are still living in temporary shelters, which makes the inhabitants susceptible to various diseases due to exposure to the elements. He said this makes the Leyte Shelter Project of CFC-ANCOP very critical. "The need to respond to the shelter needs of the typhoon victims is very urgent," said Manny Licup, head of the Shelter Team of CFC ANCOP Leyte and CFC Sector Head for South A. “Yet we needed to properly prepare all the legal groundwork and come up with the best partnership arrangements. At the same time we have to come up with the right construction process so that we can build the best shelter units given the limited funds that we have. We are glad to say that we have found all these and in a three weeks' time, we will be finished with the first two prototype units and after that, we can build in numbers," Licup added. The San Agustin site is a 1.7 hectare land do-
nated by the Palo Archdiocese headed by His Excellency, Archbishop John Du. The property intended for the ANCOP project will be able to contain 97 houses, as per ANCOP site development plan. The build started last July 10, 2014. Jojo Sumalinog, head of ANCOP Leyte, explained that the Palo site is a partnership between CFC ANCOP, the Palo Archdiocese of the Roman Catholic Church and the local government of Palo, Leyte. "At this very moment, while the build proceeds, other CFC brethren are leading the potential home partners in Values Formation seminars as well as community development teachings." Sumalinog added, "Eventually, the home partners will also undergo the Christian Life Program, which is the gateway teaching tract leading to an invitation to join Couples For Christ. CFC ANCOP believes that more than just giving houses, it is necessary for people to be given the chance to experience total Christian Liberation, as Christ envisioned for all humanity. The poor must have the opportunity to be renewed in body, mind and spirit. We are very happy to note the enthusiasm among our Palo home partners." While CFC ANCOP funds the construction of the shelter units and the Archdiocese of Palo donated the land, the Palo LGU under Mayor Matin Petilla has pledged to provide for the site development of the area, all the arrangements contained in a tripartite Memorandum of Agreement among these parties. Sumalinog said, "God has been generous to us when He allowed us to become His instruments in giving shelter to the needy. Miracles keep on happening. Right now, we have another 3-hectare site in Bgy. Maticaa in Ormoc City in Leyte, donated to CFC by the Fran Family in cooperation with the LGU of Ormoc City. In a week's time, we will also begin to build the first units there. We are very excited about all these developments."
BDO Foundation turns over new multipurpose hall in Bulacan
By Raymond V. Bucu "We must be able to overcome the culture of exclusion, and instead adopt a culture of inclusion that brings together everyone who wish to help the poor." These were Fr. Gerald Alcantara’s words in his homily during Holy Mass held in the early morning of July 20, 2014 in Ormoc City during CFC Leyte’s ANCOP Global Walk 2014. Fr. Gerald, who is the Spiritual Director of Couples For Christ (CFC) Leyte, added, "We need to remove this ungodly culture in our midst so that we will finally be able to overcome the insanity of having most of the world's wealth in the hands of a few." Fr. Gerald's homily struck home as hundreds of CFC members and their families, as well as partners supporting the Child Sponsorship Program (CSP) of ANCOP (Answering the Cry of the Poor) trooped to the Ormoc City Stage Plaza despite heavy downpour brought about by Typhoon Henry. After a brief program after the Mass the crowd of walkers started to move forward from the starting line and began the five kilometer trek that circled the Ormoc city streets. Jude Abenoja, Provincial Area Director of CFC Leyte, stated, "CFC has always been at the forefront of fighting for Total Human Liberation, which aims to alleviate poverty by addressing the most basic human needs such as Shelter and
Education and the ANCOP Global Walk is just one of the latest of such CFC initiatives.” The AGW is held annually by members of Couples for Christ, through its Building the Church of the Poor Program, ANCOP. The AGW is intended to help needy public schoolchildren to be able to stay in school by providing for their most basic school needs such as daily allowances, uniforms, shoes and funds for school projects. This year, CFC Leyte mobilized to enable all of its six sectors to bring walkers from all around the province, contributing financially to be part of five-kilometer walks in pre-designated locations. The funds collected from the activities are pooled together to finance the schooling of children studying in Leyte public schools. Jojo Sumalinog, head of the BCOP (Building the Church of the Poor) Directorate of CFC Leyte said that AGW has so far funded the schooling of 102 scholars. "We hope to do more," Sumalinog added. Reports from CFC leaders from all over the province reveal that about 6,000 walkers showed up despite the weather. One CFC member, Elmer Tolo, stated, "The real miracle here is that despite the rains, the threat of illness due to the cold weather, the early assembly time of 4:00 AM, or the fact that it was a Sunday, this much crowd was able to show up. That for me is the miracle of the AGW."
The NEW BDO Volunteer Multi-Purpose Hall was turned over last June 26 to the members of BDO Foundation-Red Cross Village Homeowners Association in Barangay Hinukay, Baliuag, Bulacan. The hall was built through the donations of Banco de Oro (BDO) Foundation. Present during the turnover ceremony were Maureen Abelardo, BDO Foundation President; Rommel Gomez, BDO Senior Assistant Vice President, Bulacan Area head; Hon. Carolina Dellosa, M.D., Municipal Mayor, Baliuag, Bulacan; Ricky Cuenca, CFC Chairman; George Campos and Jimmy Ilagan, CFC International Council and members of BCOP Team Bulacan headed by Raffy Ballesteros, CFC Provincial Area head as guests of honor. A simple ribbon cutting ceremony capped the event followed by the blessing of the hall officiated by Rev. Fr. Turing Galman, Parish Priest of Sagrada Familia Parish. This is the fourth
multipurpose hall funded by BDO Foundation. The almost 8,500-square-meter village at barangay Hinukay, Baliuag, Bulacan, was given by BDO Foundation to the municipality as resettlement site for the victims of typhoon Ondoy and Pepeng on 2009 for those living in the danger zones along the Angat tributaries. The resettlement project is a partnership with the International Federation of the Red Cross (IFRC) through the Philippine Red Cross (PRC). The PRC funded and built about 106 transitory houses while CFC ANCOP provided the values formation program of the beneficiaries. The Baliuag local government did the site development and planning. Currently, CFC ANCOP is marketing this community for prospective sponsors to replace these 106 transitory houses to permanent homes. (Romy Medina)
“BAHAY SA AVANAI”
It was June 14, a good Saturday morning for the home partners of ANCOP Shelter in AVANAI, Visayas Ave. Why? It was the day ANCOP turned over the 19 finished houses in a symbolic ceremony. The turnover ceremony and blessing of houses was led by Fr. Bong Cabrera of the Parish of the Mary Immaculate Concepcion. Fr. Bong reminded the home partner families of the importance of peace and love inside the family, which are more important than the house awarded to them. (by Jhon Robert Ko)
Ugnayan
CBCP Monitor Vol. 18 No. 15
July 21 - August 3, 2014
3,000 singles ‘choose Christ’ in 1st Metro Manila Recon
By Ericson Paraguya Close to 3,000 Singles for Christ members from the four corners of Metro Manila flocked to Antipolo City on July 18 to 20 for the first Metro Manila Regional Conference (Recon). The Theme “Choose Christ” is anchored on Philippians 1:21 “For to me life is Christ, and death is gain”. The conference urged the single men and women to harken and strongly make a decision to know, imitate and live Christ daily. “When St. Paul encountered Jesus,” explained SFC Metro Manila coordinator Bob Lasala, “everything else in his life became rubbish because Christ became his ultimate gain.” Thus we are called to emulate St Paul, Mother Mary and the disciples in choosing Christ. The 3-day Recon was packed with sessions, workshops, and sheer fellowship dedicated to the encounter of choosing Christ. Interactive booths showcasing the different SFC programs were also displayed. Choose Christ in One’s Vocation and the Sacraments The conference also aimed to aid the Singles to pursue Christ in their personal vocations. With most of the SFC’s in their productive 20’s and 30’s, workshops held tackled the practical specifics of choosing Christ in the workplace whether in the corporate, business, health or other fields. Other workshops also encouraged singles to choose Christ while harnessing the power of social media. Priests, nuns, brothers and sisters from various religious orders set up booths spreading cheerful information and invitation into the religious vocation. Individual consultations with the religious were held which addressed the needs of the singles seeking vocation advice.
Confession was also available where the participants patiently queued to receive the life-restoring Sacrament. The Holy Mass was celebrated each day on top of the vibrant worship and plenary. “It is easier to live for Christ, when you know Christ”, said Most Rev. Francisco De Leon, Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese of Antipolo in his homily. “There is a big difference between, ‘I know Christ’ and ‘I know about Christ’. To know him, we must encounter him”. Faith stronger than generator power Day one commenced amidst generator-powered staging, with SFC Fulltime Pastoral Worker Tox Remojo delivering Talk 1 – Christ is Alive. “Jesus comes to us in our deep sadness, paralyzing fears, doubts and guilt.” He further exhorted that with Christ, we are never the same again because we are changed by His living presence in us. The night was capped by a ceremonial lighting of candles that bathed the stadium in a sea of warm light, showing that no power interruption in Antipolo can stop the light of Christ in the hearts of the SFCs. On day two, Ghie Guzman, SFC Fulltime Pastoral Worker, gave Talk 2- Hearts On Fire and urged everyone that “It is our faith in Christ that gives us joy and peace.” She went on to say that Mama Mary, the cause of our joy and queen of peace, should be our model of strengthen our faith. Together, the SFCs opened tiny neon paper envelopes that revealed Bible passages on faith. The talk ended with a Prayer of Surrender. SFC Cluster Coordinator Nick Escalona delivered talk 3 entitled Hearts in Love. He reminded that God wants an inner union with us, which will only be
possible by being like Jesus – in humility, in obedience and in service. #GoodCleanFun The Recon was also an apt opportunity to launch one of the newest SFC advocacies –Generation Christ. It is an advocacy calling singles to choose to “live simply, live freely, live fully” through a lifestyle hinged on modesty, purity and faith in Christ. In the same vein, Day 2 closed with a Clubpraise, the SFC’s take on partying which is, as one of the night’s trending hashtag describes, #goodcleanfun. This time the partying SFCs, clad in solid block colors, were encouraged to go around to meet both old friends and new acquaintances alike to take a selfie or a “we-fie”. Pumping dance music and flashing strobe lights flooded the plenary hall in the spirit of pure fun. Outpouring of the Holy Spirit On Day 3, Bob Lasala capped the final Talk – Life is Christ, with the affirming words that “Even before you choose Christ, God chose you first,” since we are able to love because He first loved us (1 John 4:19). Thus we are called to live a full life that can only be done through a life for Christ and with Christ. The talk concluded with a prayer asking the Holy Spirit to pour and flow unto the congregation. The SFC crowd were later rallied to the “Isang Sigaw” chant which is a unity battlecry for all singles as one SFC Metro Manila community. A rousing praisefest ended the conference which further edified the conviction to choose Christ because there is “LI-F-E in Christ”, that is, through Christ we are Loved, Inspired, Forgiven and Empowered. The singles brought home with them a renewed vigor to “choose Christ”.
C3
SarGen celebrates 21st Anniversary
Last June 15, 2014, the province of Sarangani and General Santos City (SARGEN) celebrated its 21st Anniversary attended by about 1,000 members of the Couples for Christ and its family ministries. Several activities were done on a weeklong activity. No less than IC member James Solano, former Region Head and Provincial Area Head of the said province, graced the occasion. We started the weeklong anniversary with a Blood Letting activity in coordination with the Philippine National Red Cross last June 12, 2014 held at the Veranza Mall General Santos with the theme “Dugo Mo, Buhay Ko”. The event was attended by hundreds of members of CFC, SFC, YFC, HOLD & SOLD. After thorough screening, 47 members were successful blood donors. The Philippine National Red Cross was overwhelmed by the number of donors.
During the weekend, the members gathered at Tropicana beach resort, General Santos City to celebrate the Anniversary Day and the Father’s day at the same time. It also coincided with the Solemnity of the Holy Trinity. The day was started with a Holy Mass presided by Rev. Fr. Eugene Porras. A fellowship lunch followed where families shared their blessings with one another. In the afternoon, Region Head Hector Simplicio and Area Head Irwin Pagdalian gave their inspirational messages. The different Clusters showcased their talents in Hawaiian inspired performances. Pinoy family games were joined by the members remembering the games they played in their childhood days and enjoyed every moment of the day. It was indeed a successful celebration of 21 years of guidance and blessings from the Lord.
CFC Cagayan Province celebrates 21st anniversary By Agapito Malaki Couples for Christ(CFC) Cagayan celebrated the 21st Anniversary with the theme "Behold and Ponder" on July 11-12, 2014 at Solana, Cagayan. The celebration started with a fellowship night at the Solana Parish Center in July 11. It was an opportune time for Steve Maningat, the Northeastern Luzon Regional Area Head and Bong Pagulayan, Provincial Area Head, with the members of the Area Governance Team, Pedring Favila, Pete Malaki, Mike Calimag and Mac Bautista, with their wives Nery, Beth, Mayet and Naneth, to meet and have fellowship with His Excellency Most Rev. Ricardo Baccay, Auxilliary Bishop of Tuguegarrao, with the two assistant Parish Priests, Father Rusty Aggabao and Father Dante Dela Cruz. The night was filled with dancing, songs and games which kept the visitors and CFC, HOLD and SFC members from the different vicariates up on their feet up to midnight. The next day, July 12, 2014, a motorcade around the town of Solana opened the activites for the 21st Anniversary celebration. Mass at the Municipal Gymnasium was officiated by Bishop Baccay, after which the program proper was opened with gathering songs led by the CFC
Solana Music Ministry. Hon. Mayor Meynard Carag, represented by the Municapl Administrator, Mr. Narciso Taquiqui, welcomed the guests and delegates. CFC Solana Chapter Leader Pete Malaki welcomed the delegates from Aparri, Pamplona, Sta Ana, Ballesteros , Tuguegarao and Itawes vicariate with his welcome remarks. The inspirational message was given by Steve Maningat. It was his first appearance to the CFC Cagayan community as the new Regional Area Head. This was followed by the presentation of first 5 ANCOP scholars of the province by Mike Calimag. Intermission numbers were presented by CFC members from Amulong East Unit and Pamplona Chapter before the lunch break. The afternoon worship was led by Tony Cabungcal. The new Governance Team Leaders as well as the Family Ministry Provincial Coordinators and SFC Leaders were prayed over by Steve Maningat. Afterwards, Bong Pagulayan, Provincial Area Head, gave the CFC updates and closing remarks. Intermission numbers were presented by Itawes and Tuguegarao vicariates before the CFC Cagayan 21st anniversary was closed with powerful praisefest led by Richard Espaniola, SFC-North Eastern Luzon Regional Head.
CFCI/ C1
• Research, Development and Innovation CFCI will foster research, development and innovation among its faculty, staff and students to create new dynamic approaches to attaining the mission and vision of CFC. In developing this program, CFCI may be guided by the models presented by the ADB Institute and the World Bank Institute. The ADB Institute is the think tank of the Asian Development Bank (ADB). It carries out research on development issues with strategic implications for development thinking and policy formulation. It hosts presentations by distinguished experts and publishes books and papers to strengthen policy making. It also offers capacity building and training programs to promote sound development management, identify appropriate policies, and implement them effectively. The World Bank Institute supports the operational work of the World Bank. It conducts research to find innovative solutions to various development issues. It develops tools, methods and online platforms to facilitate open and collaborative development processes among its stakeholders in three key areas: competitions and challenges, innovation labs, and development marketplace. In the same manner, CFCI will serve as the think tank of CFC. It will carry out research and development, find innovative solutions, and develop tools, methods and platforms on issues of importance and relevance to CFC such as family life, evangelization and mission, personal holiness, work with the poor, CFC history and development, and others. It will publish books and articles and offer capacity building and training programs to promote the CFC mission and vision, identify appropriate policies and help their effective implementation. • Advisory Services CFCI will put its knowledge, experience and expertise together to advise the CFC International Council on policies related to promoting and at-
taining the mission and vision of CFC. In exercising this function, CFCI may learn from the experience and practices of the National Academy of Science and Technology, which provides advisory services to the policy making bodies of the government, including the Philippine President, in science and technology and related areas. Following this model, CFCI may, in the long term, be able to provide expert advice or expert opinion on issues that are of relevance to the Church and the daily Christian life. • Knowledge Management CFCI will store, share and manage knowledge to promote and attain the mission and vision of CFC. This involves, among others, storing and managing mission reports, teachings and lectures, articles and publications, minutes of meetings, and the like to facilitate search and knowledge sharing. It also involves connecting CFCI to global knowledge and learning, that is, to knowledge that can be the source of inspiration and practical know-how to help attain the CFC vision and mission. • Recognition and Awards CFCI will give recognition and confer awards to CFC members, clergy, and/or partners for outstanding achievements in promoting and attaining the mission and vision of CFC. The SEC approved the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws of the CFC Global Institute Foundation or CFC Institute (CFCI) for short last February 2014 with the 9 International Council members as the incorporators. The initial 5 Board of Trustees (BOT) and Officers are: Jun Uriarte as Chairman, Mannix Ocampo as President, Arnel Santos as Vice President, George Campos as Secretary and Jimmy Ilagan as Treasurer. Currently, CFCI membership has been expanded to 25 members. During the first membership meeting held last July 15, the body unanimously re-elected the original 5 Trustees to nurture the Institute in its infancy stage.
The News Supplement of Couples for Christ
George B. Campos IC Oversight
Bernadette Cuevas Editor-in-Chief
Deomar P. Oliveria Layout Artist
Alma M. Alvarez Associate Editor
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 23 Direct line : (+63 2) 709-4856 www.couplesforchristglobal.org cfcglobalcommunications@gmail.com facebook.com/CFC.Global.Mission
@CFChrist
CBCP Monitor
Ugnayan
C4 Faith Experience in CFC Palau
By Arnel Sacris We made our 3rd mission trip to CFC Palau last July 1 to July 15, 2014. We were to conduct a series of teachings and retreats together with our Cebu PAH, Bro Hermie/Sis Remy Vargas along with SFC Cebu BCOP fulltime Pastoral worker Sis Adrianne Adriano. It turned out to be a faith experience mission trip for my wife Neneng and I because of a sever allergy attacks of my wife Neneng that cause dher to have difficulty in walking because her joints were swollen. I was tempted to send her home. She was taken cared of by Dr. Glenda Santo-Aguaras, a Palau CFC member, who gave her a steroid shot. IN the Philippines, our son Addie was also hospitalized due to measles while we were still in Palau. The mission was full of oppressions and challenges and we knew it was because we will have a lot of pastoral formations to do for the growth of the community in Palau as planned during our December 2013 visit. We conducted the Covenant Orientation, Evangelization trainings, Training for Spiritual gifts, and the Christian Personal Relationship Retreat for CFC and Knights Tale/Princess Diaries Weekend 1 for SFCs. We also conducted two youth camps and attended several household. The CFC Palau Governance team led by their Country Head, Bro Francis and Sis Rose Kiep, a Palauan couple brought us to meet the CFC Palau spiritual director Fr. Rusk Saburo and to discuss how and what CFC can do to support the parish. There are only 2 priests for
Vol. 18 No. 15
July 21 - August 3, 2014
Macau and Hongkong Mission
the 26,000 population of Palau. This mission trip is a follow through of our recent mission last March together with Bro Vic and Sis Joy Mayor of CFC Cebu when we conducted the echo of the Behold and Ponder Leaders conference. We also conducted the HER 1 for HOLD and we conducted the SER 1 for SOLD, Love conference for SFC and series of household prayer meetings for CFC, HOLD and SOLD. CLP talks for the first module were also given to start another their CLP. 14 new members were added after the CLP. The CFC Palau community is growing in strength and in faith and has responded greatly to the work of evangelization. They will conduct for the first time, separate CLPs for CFC, SFC, HOLD and SOLD to show that each family ministry has grown and can stand on its own. Thanks to the supportive CFC palau governance team members: Bro Francis/Sis Rose Kiep (country head), Bro Dandy/ Sis Liaben Bunda (PFO), Bro Sabino/ Julie Sackarias (mission support), Bro Dennis/Sis Merlyn Gonzales (family Min) and Bro Raymond/Sis Cherry Yutis (mission and evangelization). They also started to support the social development program by assigning Sis Miriam Chin, a HOLD member who is also the wife of the senate president. Though the community hunger for the Word of God, they have also started to look beyond themselves as to how they can bring more locals to the community so they can share the same experience, the love of God. The next mission trip will be this coming November to continue the pastoral formation of the community. More power CFC Palau.
Meet the Future CFC Youth Full Time workers of USA
By Bernie Cuevas
The CFC Youth Conference ended with a "Bang" with the conduct of the "On Fire" Mission Volunteers Program Training, the MVP. This training aims to provide an environment for the young to discern for YFC Full Time work. 30 CFC Youth from all over the US attended the 3-day training listening to informative and empowering talks. This training allowed the participants to understand the Global nature of CFC and the structure that supports the mission. The trainees also did a random acts of kindness "RAK" activity at the heart of Portland City, Pioneer Square, famously know as "Portlandia". The training further "stirred" the hearts of the youth.. we pray that the "Disturbance" by the spirit will lead each and everyone to where the Lord is calling them. - Mike Serapio
Hongkong and Macau are 2 former British and Portuguese dependencies transferred to China in the late 1990s and now comprise the China Special Administrative Regions. HOLD Macau is the biggest ministry in CFC Macau. Mission Volunteers Tess Arguelles and Tiara Fontanilla joined Bernie Cuevas, HOLD SAR Coordinator to conduct the first ever Marian Conference and HER 2 during the weekend of July 5-6 at the Choc Van Center located in Coloan. The HOLD activity was done simultaneously with
2014 SFC USA National Conference By Mike Serapio 300 SFC members attended the 2014 SFC USA National Conference at Westin O'hare, Rosemont IL. It was a very intimate and personal conference. This year marked SFC USA's 20th anniversary. Delegates enjoyed the all white "Venetian Night" party with Gospel Artist Mike Mangione delivering his soulful music.
Very powerful talks were delivered that spoke about the SFC's journey as an individual and as a community towards the Cross. US National Core team Mike Delanoche gave the first talk "Journey for a lifetime", Kaye Ferreira also SFC National core tackled Talk 2 entitled "The one who remained", Raymund Sucgang former SFC USA National Core and Present AGT of Maryland gave the 3rd talk "To Jesus Through Mary" and Shok
the SFC Christian Character and the CFC MER 1 and 2. 5 couples from the household of Chito Magsajo joined the mission volunteer team for CFC. The Weekend Retreats were spirit filled and CFC, HOLD and SFC members came in full force to be nourished by the Word of God and to fellowship with one another. This is a first in many years and the brethren enjoyed the fun Saturday night fellowship that started with a Lord’s day. Macau leaders Danny Ngo and wife Senen, Don Bautista and Dante Quejano led the Macau service team that hosted the events very ably.
CFC HOLD has been blessed by the Lord to restart HOLD Hongkong with 10 new members who graduated from the recent CLP that ended last June, 2014. Selah Conejos, the previously lone HOLD member there, served with the CFC HK to conduct the first CLP after years of hibernation. Jing Mangente, supported by husband Tony graciously accepted the HOLD leadership in HK. The mission team was hosted by Bro Jun and Sis Merlin Cayabyab of CFC DFA. CFC HK headed by Bro Vic and Sis Bhebie Varon led the service team and arranged the schedules of the mission team.
YFC USA Revival!
Ariola delivered the Last talk "Journey Beyond". Inspiring testimonies were given by various SFC members from all over USA. Aside from the Theme, the 20th anniversary celebration highlighted SFC USA's end of the 20th year and the beginning of the next 20 years. It was truly inspiring to see fellow SFCs exhorting each other to take the lead towards the next 20 years of mission, to lead the Journey!
By Mike Serapio One Word best describes this Conference...PASSION!!! "REVIVAL", the YFC conference theme inspired every person both the young and old to passionately serve and give everything to the Lord. 500 youth rocked the Stotts Center at Portland State University through worship, singing our very own "Liveloud" songs. Aside from the powerful talks and personal testimonies, the "Torch" of leadership was passed on to the younger generation. Patrick Villanueva, the eldest son of CFC USA's national director, Eric Villanueva, led the very last praisefest exhorting every youth to take on the challenge as the torch was passed on to him by former CFC Youth USA FTW John Yumul. The ceremony was so affirming and empowering.
Shok Ariola gave the first talk "Hearts on Fire" through a Liveloud Worship then Lace Macapinlac (CFC Youth Mission Worker for USA) gave the second talk "JESUS LIVE". Father Carey Revita, former CFC Youth from Bicol, delivered the third talk "The Beloved" and John Yumul gave the Last talk "Behold, YFC Revival". Truly there was Great Revival in this conference that fostered a sense of confidence in the future among us (the older generation). As a father I felt this certain sense of security for my Daughter who will be turning 5 this August. Kylee will be in good hands because CFC Youth will take care of her the way how God took care of me and my wife when we were CFC Youth. CFC is not just a community for the "Present"... but a community for a "Lifetime"