Ugnayan March 17-30, 2014

CBCP Monitor

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Vol. 18 No. 6 March 17 - 30, 2014

The News Supplement of Couples for Christ

Couples for Christ at EWTN

CFC USA leaders headed by Eric and Pat Villanueva, members of the clergy and CFC Chairman Ricky Cuenca with wife Irma while in Birmingham, Alabama, USA

By Eric and Pat Villanueva February 27, 2014 was a day of rejoicing for the Lord has granted favor on Couples for Christ (CFC)! The Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN), a renowned Catholic television network watched by around 250 million households throughout the world, recorded three episodes dedicated to CFC for its soon-to-be-released series called The Church Universal.

Fr. Joseph Mary, host of the new series, interviewed not just members of CFC, but also members of the clergy who are involved in the community. The Church Universal series will air later this year and all three episodes featuring CFC will be televised thereafter.

The first episode will be fea-

turing Ricky Cuenca, CFC Chairman, and his wife Irma, along with Len and Marie Solomon from Kitchener, Canada. They talked about what CFC and its Family Ministries are all about.

They highlighted the mission of CFC (“Building the Church of the Home”), where they drew attention to how God, through CFC, made them a better person and the beauty it had brought into their relationship as husband and wife, thereby strengthening their family.

The second episode will focus on CFC’s mission in “Building the Church of the Poor.” Ricky Cuenca talked about CFC’s work for the poor through Answering the Cry of the Poor (ANCOP) and its programs. In this episode, he was joined by two priests, Fr. Michael McHugh

from Hamilton, Canada, who got involved in ANCOP’s Community Development Program, and Fr. Paul Griesgraber of Los Angeles, California, who oversees the St. Catherine of Sienna Catholic school located in Reseda, California. With them was a nun from the Sisters of the Holy Child Jesus, Sr. Sheila McNiff, principal of the said school.

Fr. Michael talked about how he was inspired by what ANCOP has been doing to build homes for those who are homeless. Fr. Paul, on the other hand, was very thankful for how CFC added vibrancy and spirituality in his school through the members of CFC who are a big help in running the school. Fr. Paul also talked about how Jesus welcomes all the little children and does not turn them away.

He said that through ANCOP’s Child Sponsorship Program, St. Catherine can continue to welcome students who normally cannot afford to go to a Catholic school.

The third episode talked about CFC as a missionary community, and its oneness with the Catholic Church. Eric Villanueva, CFC USA National Director, along with his wife Pat, and Deacon John Coe and wife Veronica from Forth Worth, Texas, talked about the missionary work of CFC in spreading the gospel of Christ throughout the world.

Deacon Coe talked about how he became part of CFC while he was serving in Egypt, and the condition of the life of the faithful in that part of the world. Veronica described how hungry people are for the word of God, and how CFC provided the spiritual support necessary to sustain those who are living

An estimated 6,500 Singles for Christ members trooped to Cagayan de Oro City last February 14-16 as they participated in their 21st International Conference.

The conference, titled “Journey Beyond”, celebrated the ministry’s 20 years of milestones, paving way to a hope-filled 21st year and joyfully anticipating the years to come.

This annual gathering brought together members from near and far to enjoy their unity in faith amid diversity of culture and race.

Love tanks filled The City of Golden Friendship was truly an ideal venue for the conference as it added a different touch to the celebration of the Valentine’s day. While others may be out on dinner dates, the SFC members celebrated the day of love by sharing much love among brothers and sisters in the community. The men expressed their love to all SFC sisters by giving them roses.

While love songs played and everyone was enjoying each oth-

ers’ company, every single person was asked to write love notes to one another—whether words of encouragement, or a kind compliment.

Affirmations of love and friendship flowed through the hearts of each individual, thus preparing the assembly to receive much more through the talks that followed.

Back to square one The international conference was also a venue for learning and relearning the basics of the Catholic faith, leveling up both in terms of knowledge and skill on how to be better Catholics, taking up the daily mission of sharing God’s love.

Workshops on Defending Mary, Financial Stewardship, Emotional First Aid, and Personality Development were conducted, among many others.

SFC Programs, avenues where SFCs are able to share God’s love, were also reintroduced.

Party Hard Those who might think the Catholic Christian life is boring had to rethink and shift perspective after experiencing the biggest night party in CDO on February 15—the SFC Club Praise.

Even the SFC members who weren’t

Witness” (Wedding at Cana) in 2013, and “Behold and Ponder” for 2014, the scene of Jesus at the cross with the Blessed Mother and St. John. Eric mentioned how these Marian themes bring more awareness and better appreciation of the role of the Blessed Mother in the lives of those in CFC. These three episodes will not only highlight the work of Couples for Christ as a religious movement and the many favorable things that it can offer to the individual, to the family, to the church, and to the poor, but guided by the Holy Spirit, through its mission in “Building the Church of the Home” and “Building the Church of the Poor,” it will also lead the community into humility, giving back the praise to God for allowing CFC to be an instrument in extending God’s love, joy, and compassion to His people.

Fr. Paul Griesgraber, Sr. Shiela McNiff, Fr. Michael McHugh, and Ricky Cuenca getting ready for the interview with Fr. Joseph Mary of EWTN.

Journey to Jesus Through Mary

By Fernando Academia Jr.

far away from their families.

Pat mentioned that CFC believes everyone is called for mission, that all are called to share God’s love through one’s life. Because of this, in essence, everyone is considered a missionary. When Fr. Joseph asked how CFC looks at the “New Evangelization,” Eric was quick to point out that CFC believes that the New Evangelization is vital in its Godgiven mission in renewing the face of the earth.

The importance of re-evangelizing those who are already evangelized is crucial in bringing people into a closer relationship with the Lord. Eric continued, “Learning more about what we believe in will give us a better understanding and appreciation of our Catholic faith.” He likewise pointed out the fact that CFC is going on its third year having a Marian theme-the “Magnificat” in 2012, “Obey and

able to come partied through live streaming.

“Grabe, ramdam ang saya ng party kahit online!” (This is great!

We can feel the party vibe even if we’re just watching online.)

Club music played by DJ Issa sent the crowd dancing and enjoying every bit of the party. Neon paint splashed on everyone’s shirts and glow sticks given away to everyone added to the party vibe.

Journey Beyond The weekend was capped with the assurance that Jesus will accompany SFC to and through any challenge and that each person must find the joy that goes with life’s daily crosses.

“When we carry our cross, rejoice! We are given the privilege to share in the glory of God,” Noli Manuel, SFC International Coordinator, said.

The SFCs were also reminded that the Catholic’s “devotion to Mary is always about Jesus”, and that they continue their journey to Jesus, through Mary”.

“In your journey, you cannot choose a better companion than Mary.”

A triple celebration for Cotabato’s ‘Cardinal of Peace’

The CFC International Council came to celebrate with His Eminence Orlando Cardinal Quevedo as he celebrated his 75th birthday last March 11, 2014. Aside from celebrating his birthday, His Eminence also commemorated the 50th year of his priestly ordination and his 34th year as bishop. The highlight of his celebration was the Mass at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Cotabato City. A testimonial dinner followed at the Southseas Mall.

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CBCP Monitor Vol. 18 No. 6

March 17 - 30, 2014

Ricky Cuenca

CFC-UAE top leaders ‘rub elbows’, re-discover one another All of Us are Called to

Mission

Last February 6, my wife Irma and I arrived in Toronto, Canada for a month-long mission trip. It was snowing heavily when we arrived, and many say it was the worst winter not only in Canada, but the whole of North America. However, the extreme weather conditions did not take my mind off why we were there in the first place.

And so the next day, I reported to the CFC ANCOP office, met with the fulltime workers and staff and gave them an update of the latest developments, like what happened during the Leaders Conference at the Araneta, the Global Leaders Empowerment Convention, the BCOP Total Experience in Pampanga and Bataan, and the Beloved Weekend in Baguio.

I also gave everyone there a pep talk to make them excited about all that is happening in CFC and how the Lord has been blessing our community.

On the 8th, I gave a talk on “Behold” at the Toronto Leaders Assembly, giving emphasis on the roadmap and the IC priorities for the next 2 years, as a direction setting and for the leaders in Toronto to appreciate our marching orders for the rest of the year.

February 9 was a Sunday, and was very special as it was my granddaughter Aria’s baptism.

It was a small celebration, just us family, but very spirit-filled. As a new lolo, I am truly very excited, masarap pala! But I will talk about my 2 apos in another time.

On the 10th, I again reported for work at the CFC ANCOP office, and every day since then.

Somehow, I was trying to get a feel of how it would be like when I come back to Toronto after my term as CFC Chairman ends this June. Honestly, I can ‘feel’ Canada again as I began acclimatizing myself to the weather (although extreme), the snow… except the shoveling, which I do not like anymore.

February 13, on the other hand, was spent meeting with the Governance Team of Toronto, and a dinner-fellowship later.

February 14, despite being Valentine’s Day, I had to go to Halifax, Nova Scotia without Irma, as I had to give an Orientation talk there. But I promised her a post-Valentine’s Day date when I returned. The extreme winter weather did not deter me from pushing through the trip, as Irma and I know that doing God’s work is our priority. The highlight of this mission

trip was we were able to invite Ambrose Pereira, the Vice President for Operations of Chalice Canada, and his wife Sandra to attend the CLP Orientation. Fr. Pat, a Canadian priest, was also there and through the Orientation, he was able to understand the nature and importance of CFC, and he has committed to promote CFC in the Diocese.

What’s more, Chalice Canada’s desire to sponsor children through ANCOP’s Child Sponsorship Program was rekindled, and they have also committed to partner with ANCOP to build houses for Yolanda victims!

Isn’t God great? Of course, true to my promise, when I came back, Irma and I spent the best post-Valentine’s date together.

On February 18, we again had a CLP Orientation in Toronto, where this time, we were able to invite Michael Consul and his wife. Michael is a volunteer parent chaperone for the Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB), which has been sending student leaders, teachers and parents to the Philippines through the Catholic schools’ annual community leadership immersion program. These students volunteer their time, talent and treasure, raising fund in Canada in order to buy plane tickets, fly to the Philippines and volunteer for ANCOP Shelter.

We held the Orientation in the Consul’s home, and they were able to invite 4 other couples to attend the CLP. The following day, I met with the ExCom of ANCOP Canada and kept them abreast of what’s happening, especially in the Building the Church of the Poor (BCOP) Programs.

On February 21, we flew to the United States, specifically Nashville, Tennessee. I gave a talk in their General Assembly about “Behold & Ponder”, and it was truly encouraging to see how excited CFC is there. I also met a parish priest from India, and upon learning about the expansion of the work of CFC in his home country, he made a promise to tell his family and friends about the community.

On the 22nd, we drove to Memphis, home of the great Elvis Presley. I wanted to go to Graceland and see all the Elvis paraphernalia, but mission first before pleasure. Anyway, Graceland will always be there.

The next day, we drove to Jackson, Mississippi to give a talk in their General Assembly. In

the afternoon, we were off to Alabama, Georgia for another talk. The 24th, it was Warner Robbins, also in Georgia for another General Assembly, to keep every one on fire!

The next day, we were in Atlanta to pay a courtesy visit to Bishop Gregory Wilton, and update him about our work in evangelization and strengthening of marriage and family. He was very happy to hear about Couples for Christ and how we are able to help the clergy in evangelization and in loving the poor.

February 26 was an extraordinary day, and I believe is the highlight of our USA mission.

That day, we entered the Eternal Word Television Network or EWTN Compound, where we were interviewed by Fr. Joseph Mary for a new series called The Church Universal. I believe Eric Villanueva talked about it in his article (see page 1), but in a nutshell, the experience was quite exciting and overwhelming, and most of all humbling, as Couples for Christ was being recognized as one of the Catholic groups all over the world doing great work in evangelization, work with the poor, strengthening of marriages and of families, and how the community is creating an impact in the lives of thousands of families worldwide.

On the 28th, we flew back to Toronto and arrived there at 6:30 PM. However, I had to go to Cristo Rey for another Orientation talk. On March 1, we were off to Scarborough for yet another Orientation session, this time for Senator Enverga and his wife. They were our guests during the CFC Leaders Conference in Araneta Coliseum last January, and together with 3 other couples, they will be attending the CLP. Brothers and sisters, my schedule in Canada and the USA may look like a marathon mission. But I realized, there is no reason why we cannot evangelize, or make our presence felt, to be bold and courageous as Pope Francis exhorts us. After all, this is all part of his call to New Evangelization. Truly, if we pray and fast, there is no reason why we cannot do our mission of evangelization.

God is good, all the time! This mission trip has shown truly me how the Lord is blessing me and my family, and He is truly using each one of us mightily to do His work.

Metro Manila West C Gathers for the Beloved Weekend

By Bads & Agnes Ellica On January 31, the members of the UAE National Council and Area Governance Teams of Abu Dhabi, Dubai and the Northern Emirates set aside both their domestic and pastoral portfolio and drove away from home to an isolated place in the quiet outskirts of Al Ain, Abu Dhabi,UAE. Headed by the National Director, Ramuel Garcia, these well-meaning individuals invested an entire day on activities that deliberately focused on establishing themselves as a unified team anointed to shepherd 8,000 warm bodies of CFC members as well as oversee 18 UAE-assisted mission countries in the regions of Africa, Central Asia and South Asia.

A good number of them are newly installed members of the governance, although everyone is familiar with one another as each member has been in the community for at least 15 to 21 years. They underwent structured exercises where they shared common discoveries on how little they know one another and surprisingly found revelations of new aspects of their spouses’ personalities.

Most of the exercises led them to ‘rub elbows’ with one another in enlightening group work. Every member was energeti-

cally engaged that the outcome exploded into joyful and hearty laughter, devoid of pretenses or any forms of deceptive charade.

The candid participation of all reaped several profound insights about themselves and the nature of teamwork. To mention a few, the group learned that each member enriches the group whatever skills/talents he possesses; that trust is essential in teamwork; doubts hurt or destroy community; communication is the hallmark of a team; openness, respect and obedience are jewels to teamwork; selfimage, self-knowledge and self-awareness raise self-value, among others.

The group ended up with visible closeness and fondness for one another. The manifestation of oneness seem to reflect a group that Jesus prayed for—His 12 apostles—so that they will be united, a team. Considering that mission work is fundamentally a teamwork centering on Christ as the Head, the atmosphere of solidarity radiated by this group ushered in a new sense of confidence and integrity.

With the grace of God and the passion and enthusiasm of each one to serve, CFC-UAE anticipates a victorious 2014 Evangelization and Mission effort, giving glory and honor to His name.

Mission Lebanon

By Ernie Uson It was a cloudy and cold afternoon when the mission team from the UAE headed by Ernie & Mini Uson, CFC-Lebanon Country Coordinator, Hernan & Marivic Fuentes, CFCYemen Country Coordinator with daughters, Apple and Mitch, all landed at the Rafik Hariri International Airport in Beirut. They were met by Jun Iriola, Country Head of CFCLebanon, and Eppie Ballouz, HOLD-Lebanon Coordinator.

The mission group went directly to St. Joseph’s Church for a courtesy call to Fr. Martin McDermott, CFC-Lebanon Spiritual Director, who eagerly welcomed them. Afterwards, they met with YFC-Lebanon leaders. The group then went off to Our Lady of Lebanon, located at mount Harissa, 20 km North of Beirut and 650 meters above sea level.

The following day, the team visited the place of St. Elise and St. Charbel Makhluf, a Maronite

monk and priest during the late 1800’s. Both saints are well known for their gift of healing.

Later in the evening, the 2-day simultaneous teachings for CFC and YFC started with the celebration of the Holy Mass. A combination of 60 CFCs, SFCs, and HOLD members and 9 YFCs ttended the teaching. Healing sessions were conducted by Marivic Fuentes for brothers and sisters who are suffering from physical, emotional and spiritual sickness.

The CFC-Lebanon core group met after the 2-day teaching to discuss plans and identified the structure for the governance team. Ernie Uson & Hernan Fuentes explained the 2014 goals and the CFC structure. After which, the group identified brothers and sisters who will be handling certain responsibilities as part of the governance team.

The following day, the mission team attended a French Mass and met with Fr. Theo at the Jesuit residence before heading off the airport and back to the UAE.

CFC ANCOP, DLS-CSB Partnership Welcomes 15 New Scholars

By Efren Tompong

IC members James Solano and Manny Garcia gave powerful talks during the West C Beloved Weekend; Sector Head Steve Maningat led the praisefest to close the weekend retreat

By Marla Rances Last Friday, February 28, all roads led to Baguio City for leaders and members of Couples for Christ Metro Manila West C Sector.

West C had a fantastic time last Friday during the Fellowship Night, the theme for this special night being Flashback Friday. All six clusters had prepared presentations representing the era assigned to them, from the Rolling 60s to the present decade, 2010s. It was an opportunity for the different clusters to show their best through the usual contest criteria and audience vote. For the “Best Ka-look-alike” contest, audience vote determined the winner.

The next two days commenced with the recitation of the Holy Rosary. A Holy Mass and worship were held before the Prologue delivered

by Mandy Constantino, one of the members of West C’s Sector Governance Team. Joel Dayao, Provincial Area Head of Capiz, tackled talk 1 titled Ponder, The Family of Love. Two more talks were given in the afternoon, one by James Solano,

a member of the International Council, and Rommel Ancheta of ABLAZE Communications. As always, there were testimonies by brothers and sisters to highlight and underscore the message of the talks. The Saturday program was ended with the Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, a way of honouring the Holy Eucharist by exposing it in proper solemnity so the faithful could pay homage and devotion to it. Though tired and hungry from a day-long activity, everyone went home to their respective accommodations spiritually fulfilled.

Though sleepy from the fellowship that happened in the various cottages the night before, everyone trooped to Teachers’ Camp for the last day of the conference and the Holy Mass. The fourth and last talk was given by Manny Garcia, another member of the International Council with a heart rending sharing from his wife Ditas Just like previous conferences, the Beloved Weekend ended with a rousing praise fest led by West C Sector Head, Steve Maningat and the announcement of the winners.

CFC ANCOP, on its 3rd year of fruitful partnership with De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLSCSB), is sending 15 new high school graduates to study in one of the premier Catholic colleges in the country, bringing the number of ANCOP Lasallian students to 36.

For the past two (2) years, all but one of the 35 qualified students endorsed by ANCOP hurdled the entrance examination at DLS-CSB. The number of Dean’s Listers from among the scholars is

growing and the overall academic performance of the current 21 scholars has been exemplary.

By mid-2015, the first batch of 6 students are expected to finish college and obtain degrees in Human Resource Management and Development, Consular and Diplomatic Affairs and Information Technology.

The Lasallian education, according to the ANCOP scholars, is a blessing and privilege. Through this gift, every one is committed to persevere and pursue their dreams with patience, vigor and positive attitude.

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

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CBCP Monitor Vol. 18 No. 6 March 17 - 30, 2014

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120 Days After Typhoon Yolanda Table 1. Summary of funds received for relief and rehabilitation

MARCH 8, 2014 marked the 120th day after Typhoon Yolanda (International name: Haiyan) made landfall in Central Philippines. Metereologists said this was probably the strongest storm in history to hit land anywhere in the world. Haiyan’s windspeeds were recorded as high as 315 kph (195 mph) with gusts as fierce as 380 kph (235 mph) when it hit.

More than 16 million people were affected in nine regions including over four million who were displaced from their homes. Across the Philppines, half a million people were evacuated from their homes and now most of them have no home to return to.

After the initial relief operations, several international communities and NGOs rallied to support rehabilitation efforts for Haiyan

victims. Couples for Christ, through our work with the poor, ANCOP (ANswering the Cry Of the Poor) with its members, donors and partners around the world responded to this call through its relief, rehabilitation and rebuilding programs.

Rebuilding efforts started as early as December 2013 with then ANCOP President Eric Delos Reyes, together with Shelter Director Mark Tagalag. They surveyed and met with local CFC, ANCOP volunteers, LGU and Parishes the affected areas in Leyte. On the other hand, ANCOP Operations Director Rizal Ting, along with Disater Response Director Ethel Balenton scouted Bantayan Island and Bogo, Cebu for possible sites for CFC ANCOP Communities. Local CFC ANCOP Leaders and volunteers were tasked to conduct follow-up

activities with the LGU, Dioceses and lot donors to finalize agreement and plans.

Other partners have likewise given their donations specifically for the building of homes for Yolanda survivors, among them PIRA – Php1.2M for 12 houses in Palo, Leyte; IMS – gave US$50,000 for building houses in Yolanda striken areas; JX Shipping – Medical Mission support of Php250T-300T/mission for 3 areas. CFC ANCOP has likewise received commitments from Chalice Canada (200 houses), ANCOP USA, Canada, UAE and the Bermuda; Cross Catholic Outreach ($125,000); Chinabank (Php 1M); and Charis or Caritas Humanitarian Aid & Relief Initiatives, Singapore (30 houses).

Livelihood assistance in Basey

ANCOP USA Spends 6 Days at Iloilo Medical Mission

By Nathaniel Gomez around 30 medical volunteers from ANCOP USA arrived at dawn of February 7, 2014 for a 6-day medical and dental mission in the Province of Iloilo, one of the areas affected by Typhoon Yolanda. The team, led by Beth Macaraeg, headed for Mina, Iloilo (34 kms from Iloilo City) almost immediately after landing at the Iloilo Airport.

Day 1 of the mission, the team was able to serve at least 1,300 patients. Aside from medical assistance, the group also prepared simple snacks for the waiting patients. Taytay sa Kauswagan (TSKI) donated bottled water for the team and the patients in Mina.

On day 2, the group went to Dumangas for a two-day medical and dental mission. 1,133 patients registered for the free medical

and dental check up. Aside from the medical mission, the team also worked with the local YFC members for the packing of goods that were brought to Gigantes Islands. The team likewise turned over a portable ECG machine to Mayor Rolly Distura.

After 2 days in Dumangas, the medical volunteers were brought to Barotac Viejo, a municipality in the northern part of Iloilo, where close to 800 patients were treated.

Day 5, the medical team found themselves serving in Concepcion, Iloilo where they were able to serve close to 500 patients.

On the 6th day, the ANCOP USA team boarded the Philippine Naval ship which took them to Isla Gigantes Sur, Carles, Western Visayas. The Gigantes Islands are located 18 kms from the main Panay Island where Iloilo is located. According to unofficial reports, 90% of the houses in the

islands were destroyed during the super typhoon. 700 patients were given medical assistance and relief goods in Gigantes Sur. On the 7th day, the medical mission team made a courtesy call to Governor Arthur D. Defensor, Sr., who in turn, hosted a luncheon to thank the ANCOP USA team.

The trip was a mixture of hard work, fellowship and an outpouring of love from the ANCOP USA team who were merely extensions of the generosity of donors from the United States.

The Local Government medical counterparts, particularly the nurses and other health workers, played a significant role in pre-screening the patients in each municipality. The CFC and ANCOP leaders and members likewise did an excellent job in coordinating the entire medical mission.

Rizal Ting of CFC ANCOP, together with Rico Alconcel and Ben Cabahug, Provincial Area Head of Western Samar, went to Basey to see samples of fishing boats for the fishermen of Western Samar who lost their boats due to typhoon Yolanda. The team discussed boat specifications and gears that will go with the boats that will be distributed to local fishermen in Basey. The budget for each boat with gears is pegged at Php 12,000. ANCOP has already released the funds for the first 6 fishing boats for livelihood in Western Samar.

ANCOP, Leyte Clergy Sign MOA for ANCOP site On February 22, 2014, Rizal Ting of CFC ANCOP, Raymond Bucu, Provincial Area Head for Leyte, and CFC IC Manny Garcia went to Tanauan, Leyte for the CFC Evangelization Rally and MOA Signing with Bishop John Du and Msgr. Pantin for the Palo ANCOP Site. During the Evangelization Rally, Manny Garcia and Raymund Bucu inspired CFC to “Behold and Ponder”. Bishop John Du, Msgr. Pantin and 2 other priests concelebrated the Mass after the rally. The MOA signing for the Palo site followed.

CROSS Catholic Outreach, CFC ANCOP Sign Agreement for Shelter Project in Palo, Leyte In a simple ceremony last February 18, 2014, CFC ANCOP and Cross Catholic Outreach signed the Memorandum of Agreement for the construction of houses for the ANCOP Community in Palo, Leyte. Davis Adams, Vice President for Missions, and Sarah Jeske Litchie, Accountability and Capacity Strengthening Officer, represented Cross Catholic, while Rudy Gaspillo, CFC ANCOP President, and Jimmy Ilagan of the CFC International Council represented CFC ANCOP.

Love Mission: Possible!

By Alvin Ricafort On February 13, 2014, the Metro Manila West C Medical and Dental Mission team flew to Tacloban, Leyte, excited to spend Valentine’s Day with brethren in Yolanda-stricken Basey. In the attempt to bring love to the 600+ patients, it was they who received the most beautiful love of all.

The Medical and Dental mission started at 9am in Basey District I office. Aside from the usual medical and dental procedures, de-worming and Vitamin A supplementation were also provided in Basey, Samar and Palo, Leyte.

While the Medical and Dental mission is ongoing, a separate Team went to Basiao Elementary School and distributed 78 new books for Nursery, K1 and K2 students. Assorted old books were also donated, like encyclopedias and other reading materials. Most of the funds for the new books were sponsored by NASDAQ OMX Manila Site.

Another Team proceeded to Marabut for ocular inspection of a possible relocation and ANCOP site.

With the help of the local CFC chapter in Samar,

there were around 40 CFC member families who are profiled to receive construction materials as well.

February 16th, the whole volunteer team was able to attend the 6 am Warayanon Mass. At around 9 am, the team traveled back to San Agustin in Palo, Leyte, where 150 medical and 31 dental patients were treated, and reading glasses were given away.

Before returning to Manila, the team paid a courtesy visit to His Excellency John Forrosuelo Du of the Archdiocese of Palo in his residence.

Toronto Catholic School Board sends volunteers for immersion

By Vida Cuares

Bogo City Rehabilitation Set Last February 15, 2014, Bogo City in Cebu held the groundbreaking ceremonies for the 1.1 hectares Bgy. Cayang site for the relocation of those displaced by Typhoon Yolanda. Through the Adopt-A-Barangay program, Bogo City was adopted by 2 NGOs—the Light of Jesus Community and CFC ANCOP. Each is given 5,000 sq. m. to build at least 60 houses.

The Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB) partnered for the 3rd time with CFC ANCOP for the schools’ annual community leadership immersion program. The 2-week event headed by Michael Consul, TCDSB Team Head, happened last December 28, 2013 up to January 8, 2014, and participated by 13 student leaders and 4 teachers from the different Catholic schools of Toronto, Canada. The immersion sites were the ANCOP communities of Ang Kapatid Community (ANCOP-AKC) in Caloocan, Our Lady of Banneux, at San Mateo and AVANAI, Quezon City. The students participated in the actual shelter build, tree planting and various community interaction activities with the children and the home partners.

New Year’s day was spent meeting and interacting with the ANCOP scholars of Bahayan at Yaman ni San Martin Orphanage in Tondo. On the same day, the group experienced a one hour guided walk tour towards the breakwater of Smokey Mountain, passing through the shanties, mountains of garbage and the non-stop charcoal processing activities in Tondo. The students described the tour as a life-changing experience and that they can do a lot of things to help the poor.

On the last day, a short program was mounted to culminate the immersion program. Michael Consul of TCDSB presented tokens to the people whom they closely worked with and each student shared his personal experiences of the whole program.

The event ended with the good news of a possible sponsorship of 2 children.

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Vol. 18 No. 6

March 17 - 30, 2014

CFC South Asia 4th Regional Conference held in Kerala, India

By Ramon Santiago The 4th Regional Conference of CFC South Asia on February 22nd opened with a powerful worship led by Hector Poppen, followed with the celebration of the Holy Mass officiated by Fr. Peter Chandayagad, who in his homily, officially welcomed the conference participants. Fr. Peter said that the Mass readings of the day were very appropriate for the two-day conference as the Lord wanted to remind all his followers to be holy and perfect as the heavenly Father is holy and perfect. Furthermore, he said that as the top leaders of CFC in South Asia, it is very important to witness to

others a life of holiness in our personal and community life.

There were four talks in the regional conference—Talk 1 - CFC and the New Evangelization delivered by George Campos; Talk 2 - The CFC Global Operations, and Talk 3 - CFC South Asia— Challenges & Opportunities in the New Evangelization were given by Jimmy Ilagan; and Talk 4 - CFC as a Missionary Community—Way Forward in South Asia, was presented by Mon Santiago, CFC South Asia Regional Coordinator.

In the first talk of the conference, Campos shared the evangelization strategies of great missionaries in Asia, such as St. Francis Xavier and the lessons that are relevant to CFC’s global evangeliza-

tion directions. He explained that CFC’s approach to new evangelization can be coursed through three dialogues, namely, a dialogue with religions (interreligious dialogue), a dialogue with culture (inculturation), and, a dialogue with the poor (socio-economic involvement). However, Campos emphasized and exhorted the South Asian CFC leaders that the first means of evangelization is the witness of an authentically Christian life as expounded by Pope Paul VI in Evangelii Nuntiandi.

Vince Lisboa, CFC Sri Lanka Country Coordinator, led a very powerful afternoon worship wherein the Holy Spirit used Tita Santiago to prophesy that “great and mighty things will happen

CFC UAE Echoes ‘Behold & Ponder’ ILC

in South Asia especially in India if you just open yourself to Me and allow Me to work in your life”.

A team building activity was conducted after the worship to get the delegates to personally know each other more.

In the talk The CFC Global Operations, Ilagan explained that CFC still holds the distinction of being the only lay organization in Asia with Vatican recognition. He also said that the recognition of an association by the Vatican constitutes a declaration of the ecclesiastical authority stating that the association is really in the Church, and that everything in it is in agreement with the nature of the Church. And based on the Pontifical Council of the Laity’s International Associations of the Faithful Directory, Ilagan further shared that the canonical recognition that the community officially received from the Church authorities confirms the validity of what CFC offers the faithful as a genuine means of moving forward towards the holiness of personal and community life. Ilagan further elaborated that as a global family, CFC adheres to four principles, namely unity, uniformity, interdependence and accountability.

After his talk, a workshop questionnaire was handed to the delegates to accomplish.

George and Cynthia Campos, and Vince led the group in some action songs before the third talk.

The third talk, which was also given

by Ilagan, he exhorted the delegates that despite the obvious challenges of language, culture, geography, religion,

security and fundamentalism of some religious adherents, there is great potential for evangelization in the region since Christianity is a minority religion.

Catholics form only 1.64% of the region’s estimated population of 1.6 billion. However, there are great opportunities for CFC’s family life renewal ministry even with just the Catholic population of 20.0 million. India alone, he said, has more than 17 million Catholics. He continued that in this region, CFC’s 3 approaches on the new evangelization, namely inter-religious dialogue, inculturation and socio-economic involvement can really be applied and leaders should be creative and proactive in evangelization efforts together with the local Church.

Santiago, in the last talk, shared some specific strategies to move the vision and mission of the community in the region. The talk was followed by a workshop by the different leaders of the countries in the region.

After the final talk, the group had a mission sending ceremony led by Fr. Peter and assisted by Campos nd Ilagan. Fr. Peter prayed a mission sending prayer and each of the delegates were given the cross of Christ as a reminder that they bring Christ with them in their mission and that Jesus is always with them in the challenges that they will face in mission.

Gyan Rai, CFC Nepal Country Head, led the mini-praise fest to end the regional conference.

A fellowship dinner and a very entertaining cultural show organized by CFC Kochi ended the day-long activities.

Victorious simultaneous “Beloved Weekend” Conferences held in ME

By Bads Ellica God’s majestic presence in the Middle East’s Synchronized Beloved Weekend was indeed awesome in the face of much challenges and trials. To begin with, the mission teams experienced maximum harassment because something spectacular was to take place. Amazingly, the entire mission concluded at noontime March 8, 2014 with CFC Oman joining their CFC brethren in Qatar and UAE. The trip to UAE, Qatar and Oman was the first visit to the region as missionaries for eight of the mission team members from the Philippines as they responded to God’s call to the CFC Philippines Mission to be more

involved in CFC’s international mission work.

At least 2,000 implanted Filipino members of CFC being used by the Lord in His call for New Evangelization have been enlightened and emboldened by the powerful talks, inspiring testimony, and personal sacrifice of missionaries coming from the Philippines. The talks from the Beloved Weekend leading to the new spirituality of CFC, that of the Beloved Son, will continue to echo across the region in the weeks to come. A couple of thousand hands, feet, ears, and mouths will re-tell the story of Jesus with new ardor, methods, and new thrusts, in line with the Church’s call for Redemptoris Missio in a region which used to be the center of the faith.

CFC IC member and Metro Manila Missions Director Arnel Santos giving a talk during the Leaders Conference

By Bal & Lourdes Quiambao The CFC UAE echo of the “Behold & Ponder” Leaders Conference was a resounding victory for the Lord. More than two hundred members of the Mission Core and top leaders of CFC, SOLD, HOLD, and SFC Ministries gathered last March 1, 2014 at the Saadiyat Ballroom of Grand Millennium Hotel in Abu Dhabi. Despite having to come from the CFC UAE Beloved Weekend the day before, this did not prevent the leaders from having another magnificent encounter with the Lord in the Leaders Conference.

The first talk, “Ponder”, was given by Arnel Santos, CFC International Council member, who also shared his personal

transformation story. The UAE leaders were equally inspired and encouraged to hear Santos’ personal testimonies of their own challenges in service and personal life with wife, Bing, and their eventual victories in overcoming them. Rita Verdolaga added her own powerful and life changing experience when she had to really ponder on God’s will for her and her family.

The second talk (“Behold”) was delivered by CFC Executive Director, George Campos. The CFC UAE leaders were truly blessed to hear the Lord’s message through the talk as Campos led them to relive the past thirty three years of the CFC International Community along with its Family Ministries. Similarly inspiring were the testimonies of Romy Alfaro, Country Coordi-

nator of CFC UAE and Regional Coordinator for the Middle East, and Cynthia Campos, who both shared about their life in community and Building the Church of the Home.

Mar Santos, CFC UAE NC member, and Danny Abutas, CFC Sharjah and Northern Emirates Area Director, shared their personal insights and experiences when they joined the BCOP experience last January in San Fernando. Pampanga and Bani, Bataan.

The conference was concluded with a pray over of the CFC UAE leaders by the CFC Elders and CFC UAE National Council Members for the local leader’s continuing zeal, passion, and mission readiness to go wherever the Lord is taking them to serve Him.

CFC Chair, USA Leaders Visit Atlanta Archbishop CFC USA presents itself to Archbishop of Oklahoma

Couples for Christ (CFC) Chairman, Ricky Cuenca and wife Irma, together with Roy and Claire Reynes, CFC Area Servant Leader of the State of Georgia and Gilbert and Gail Banzon, CFC Unit Servant Leaders of East Georgia had a surprise and short notice invitation to meet the Most Reverend Wilton D. Gregory of the Archdiocese of Atlanta last February 25, 2014 at the Archdiocese main office in Smyrna, Georgia.

The meeting was very blissful and

casual, where Archbishop Wilton D. Gregory, after the exchange of cordial greetings, opened the conversation about his Doctorate studies with Bishop Anscar Chupungco as his mentor, the Filipino Benedictine Monk and a Faculty of Pontifical Institute of Liturgy in Rome. He also indicated that he went to the Philippines in January 1995 in the campaign against proliferation of pornography around the world.

Bishop Kariyil of India Welcomes CFC Top Leaders Prior to the CFC South Asia 4th Regional Conference and the CFC India National Conference last February 21-23, 2014 at the Diocesan Alpha Pastoral Centre at Edakochi, Kochin, the delegates, led by CFC Executive Director, George Campos with wife Cynthia, and CFC Continent Overseer for West Asia, Jimmy Ilagan and wife Lorna, paid a courtesy call to the Bishop of the Diocese of Kochi, Bishop Joseph Kariyil at the historic Bishop’s house that was built in 1506.

CFC Calgary Meets with Bishop Frederick Henry CFC National Director Eric Villanueva, Tat Reyes, His Excellency Archbishop Paul Stagg Coakley of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma, Roger Santos and Dr. Carol Brown, Director of New Evangilization for the Archdiocese of Oklahoma pose for posterity after a courtesy call.

USA receives 3 new clergy recognitions

Since January of this year, the CFC community in the United States has been given three additional clergy recognitions from various Dioceses. The first one was from the Diocese of Austin, Texas, through Bishop Joe Vàsquez, and Lupe Garcia, Director for Family and Life Counseling.

In New Jersey, CFC was granted recognition by Bishop Paul G. Bootkoski of the Diocese of Matuchen last February 7. The most recent recognition was received early this month from the Most Reverend Joseph Kurtz, D.D., Archbishop of Louiseville, Kentucky. These recognitions granted by the American Catholic clergy to the CFC community continue to inspire brethren from the USA to reach new heights in “building the Church of the home and the poor” in all 50 states.

CFC Manitoba Call On Archbishop Gagnon Last Thursday, February 13, 2014, CFC Canada had the privilege of having an audience with the new Archbishop of Winnipeg, His Grace, Richard Gagnon.

Arnel Simbulan, Central Regional Head, Ador Cabrera, Area Head of Manitoba, John Acosta, Full-time Pastoral Worker for CFC-Singles for Christ, Kyle Beley, Full-time Pastoral Worker for CFC-Youth, and Francis Lucas, Church Integration Office Coordinator were at the meeting.

On February 20th 2014, CFC Calgary met with His Excellency, Bishop Frederick Henry. CFC Country Coordinator Eric and Delos Reyes, and his wife Carina, were also present. Bishop Henry welcomed CFC warmly and expressed his appreciation for the community and its efforts towards evangelization, more specifically the aspect of ‘Family Renewal’. Delos Reyes shared with Bishop Henry all the new and exciting initiatives that CFC as a global family, is undertaking, including CFC’s eagerness to connect and work with the Archdioceses in the respective areas. He was also able to share God’s victories with regards to CFC’s work with the poor through ANCOP. Evony Evangelista, Youth fulltime worker, mentioned the various programs that CFC-Youth has to offer. She likewise expressed her desire to connect with Mary Ann Donaleshan, the Youth and Young-Adults Ministry Director for the Archdiocese. Bishop Frederick Henry expressed his full support of CFC and looks forward to the continued partnership and efforts to share Christ’s message and love.