Ugnayan
THE NEWS SUPPLEMENT OF COUPLES FOR CHRIST CBCP Monitor. Vol. 22 No. 05
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SFC AT 25: REJOICING IN GOD’S RELENTLESS LOVE!
7, 000 young people gathered to celebrate 25 years of God's faithfulness to the ministry of CFC Singles for Christ during the International Conference held from February 16-18 at the Globe Circuit Event Grounds, Makati City, Philippines. The conference theme was 'Relentless', inspired by 2 Timothy 1:6.
SFC celebrates 25th year with many activities 2018 is CFC Singles for Christ’s 25th year, and to celebrate God’s faithfulness, SFC members and leaders from the four corners of the globe converged in Manila to celebrate this milestone. The celebrations, spread over ten days, kicked off on February 10, 2018 with a career fair, wedding expo, activity booths and an open mic stage at the Blue Bay Walk, Pasay City. The whole day activity had the singles mingling, meeting old friends and making new ones, exploring opportunities at the jobs fair, and honing their talents through the activity booths. Engaged couples even got the chance to take home loot bags and get discounts from the exhibitors at the wedding expo. The afternoon open mic performances showcased talents in singing, dancing and the spoken word. Gracenote, a Filipino pop rock band, sang their latest songs, much to the delight of the young crowd. Highlighting the kick off, and signaling the beginning of the ten-day celebrations, was the unveiling of the “SFC at 25” logo. Fr. Ro Atillano, SJ, who used to be a member of SFC and who is now Chaplain of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, celebrated the Holy Eucharist. In his homily, Fr. Atillano reminded the congregation, “If it is the work of the Lord, He will sustain it. If it were simply by our own efforts, we could not have reached this far.” The day ended on a high note with Overflow, a praise concert featuring talents from SFC. On February 12, for its third activity (see story on the second activity, the SFC Silver Run on page 2), SFC gathered at the San Ildefonso Parish, Makati City to honor the efforts and service of the Singles for Christ Mission Volunteers (MVs). It was an evening of thanking the Lord for His assurance that the missionaries are never alone in their work despite the many trials and tribulations, because not only is He with them, but fellow “trailblazers,” their co-missionaries, are journeying with them, and sharing in their mission. At the end of the fellowship activity, Noli Manuel, SFC International Coordinator, honored the MVs, calling them ‘Motivated Victors’ because of their effort of bringing Christ to different places.
The Most. Rev. Francisco De Leon, bishop of the Diocese of Antipolo, was the main Mass celebrant on Day 1, with Fr. Jeff Rosales and Fr. Armando Orido concelebrating. Bishop de Leon challenged the delegates— coming from Metro Manila, the different provinces of the Philippines, and from 28 countries—to fast not only from what they eat but also from what goes out from their mouths. The prelate said, “Say yes to the words that encourage and heal. Say yes to Jesus,” he added. The conference officially opened with messages from Metro Manila Missions Director Mike Bukuhan, Family Ministries Director Lawrence Quintero and SFC International Coordinator Noli Manuel. Rekindle! CFC President Shok Ariola, former International Coordinator for SFC, invited the delegates to look back at the past 25 years with fondness, remembering all the blessings, challenges, lessons and even hurts; to honor the people who have touched each one’s life and made an impact through their witnessing while in the ministry, and to be grateful for these are gifts from the Lord. Ariola exhorted, “If you are asked to remember your journey as Singles for Christ, do not forget the following: first, that God loves you.; second, that we are disciples of Jesus Christ; third, remember repentance; fourth, remember the power of the Holy Spirit that is made available for all of us; and lastly, remember that God has sent us tools in the form of community, prayer, sacraments.” Sharers Topher Hernandez from SFC Australia, Manuel Loma of SFC Bohol, and former CFC fulltime pastoral worker Kirby Llaban shared how they journeyed with God through the community. Rejoice! The second day of the conference was filled with workshops, performances by guest artists and celebrities, and empowering sessions. In the morning, Singles for Christ gathered for the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, a must for all events of the community. Most Rev. Pablo Virgilio David, D.D., Bishop of the Diocese of Kalookan, who presided in the Mass, reminded SFC that God’s salvation is offered to all— saints and sinners alike. SFC also took the opportunity to honor their ‘second parents’ during the Couple Coordinators Conference. In the evening, for the second session, John Acosta, Regional Coordinator for SFC Canada talked about the SFC ICON, p2
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Photo credits: SFC ICON Media Team
CFC IC Pays Courtesy Visit to Cardinal Tagle
CFC Family Ministries Gears up for its 25th year THIS year is not just a year of rekindling the gift and fulfilling the ministry for the CFC Family Ministries but also a year of celebrating God’s goodness to the community for the past 25 years. CFC Family Ministries Head Lawrence Quintero said, “This year, as we celebrate the 25th Anniversary of CFC Family Ministries, we are affirmed by the very theme of
our community 'Rekindle the Gift. Fulfill your Ministry!' Truly, we have been given a very special gift, the Family Ministries.” Quintero defined the Family Ministries as a gift to couples, so that they can bring their whole family to holiness as they follow Christ; to the Church, so that the community can share the vibrancy, dynamism, and giftedness in the propaga-
tion of the faith; and to society, as catalysts of positive change and help build more families that will renew the face of the earth. He encouraged the members and leaders of the ministries to celebrate their own giftedness in order to fulfill their respective ministry. The Family Ministries started its celebration with the Singles for Christ Internation-
al Conference (ICON) on February 10-18. This will be followed by Servants of the Lord Men’s Conference on March 23-25 in Tagbilaran Bohol; Youth for Christ ICON on April 13-15 in Metro Manila; Handmaids of the Lord ICON on April 27-29 in Laguna; and Kids for Christ International Family Conference on May 11-13 in Cebu City.
Mission Core reminded: love without bitterness, give with forgiveness THE Metro Manila Mission Core, for its March gathering on March 4, chose to reflect on the Lenten Season via a recollection. The MCG (Mission Core Gathering) was held at the St. Paul Auditorium in Pasig City. Recollection facilitator Msgr. Allen Aganon, the CFC Spiritual Director, focused on what happened when Jesus prayed in Gethsemane. “Reflecting on Jesus’ own prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane, we can learn from His example in the moments before his passion MC RECO, p3
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ON March 6, CFC Chairman Melo Villaroman Jr. with wife Nini, Pastoral Formation Office Director Rouquel Ponte and Church Relations Office Head George Campos with wife Cynthia, paid a courtesy call on His Eminence Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle, Archbishop of Manila, at the Arzobispado in Intramuros, Manila. Fr. Joel Jason, parish priest at the Mary, Mirror of Justice Parish in Makati City, joined the meeting. Villaroman and Ponte reported on the recent activities of the community, as well as updates on evangelization and missions, the Family Ministries, ANCOP, and the Social Development programs. The Cardinal was pleased to hear about the developments in CFC, and encouraged the leaders to continue what CFC is doing. His Eminence also reiterated that the encounter and union with Christ must be the central focus of the mission for family renewal, and that it is always better to work together with like-minded communities in the family and life ministries. “This will be a powerful witness that the Church itself is a family that works together, with
each member contributing according to his gifts and charisms,” the prelate said. Cardinal Tagle likewise emphasized the Holy Father’s call to mercy and compassion as CFC does its share in the pastoral conversion of those in difficult family situations. He said, “While we affirm the teachings of the Church, we as ministers must continue to give them hope. The situation of other people is not all ideal, but in their brokenness and in their struggles, we must continue to offer our hands to help and extend love.” Other areas for collaboration that came up, especially between the Clergy and the laity, are the accompaniment of single parents, persons with same sex attraction, migrants, the military and the police force, the environment, social media, and persons with disability. There are also many programs in the RCAM or the Roman Archdiocese of Manila that are parallel to the existing programs of CFC. Villaroman and Ponte assured the Cardinal that CFC is committed to partner with the Church in these initiatives. (Alma Alvarez)
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SFC Invites “Old-timers” to Grand Reunion AS SFC celebrated its 25 year, it was a time to rekindle friendships and to have fun. Singles for Christ thus gathered SFCs, from the pioneers of 1993 down to the present members, to a Grand Reunion on Valentine’s Day, February 14. The activity was held at the Metro Tent in Metrowalk, Pasig City. SFCs from the different generations, beginning with the Firestarters (1993-1997), the Trailblazers (1998-2002), Torchbearers (2003-2007), Ablaze th
Batch (2008-2012) and the Rekindle Batch (2013-2018), all came to reminisce and look back at the “good old days.” February 14 being Ash Wednesday, Fr. Paul Uwemedimo celebrated Mass for the revelers. Fr. Paul, who is also an “old-timer” SFC, reminded the participants to ask for the grace to receive God's love and be transformed by that love so that in return they could love God and love others. This was a very timely message for the beginning of Lent.
STMA tackles ChaCha at Breakfast Forum
It was a night of throwbacks, from favorite worship music back in the day, to games the SFC played during the early years. But it wasn’t only a time for fun, as it was also a time for remembering the brothers and sisters who have gone ahead, but who had undeniably offered their lives for the mission. The past generation of leaders was also recognized for bringing SFC to where it is now. (SFC Communications)
SFC runs 25K on its silver year
MANILA, February 12, 2018 — Hundreds of runners gathered in one historical event for Singles for Christ. For the first time in SFC history, the ministry organized its first marathon, with the SFC Silver Run as its initial salvo. The special marathon, which was part of the SFC at 25 anniversary celebration, was held on February 12 at the Camp Aguinaldo Grounds, Quezon City. Community members and invited guests from different organizations joined the event and raced under the 25K, 10K and 5K categories. Funds raised for the run will benefit Answering the Cry of the Poor (ANCOP) Cornerstone, an advocacy that focuses on tutoring school children in the public schools in reading and writing, as well as giving values formation classes to the parents of these children.
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“This is not just about running the race. This day is about preparing ourselves for the next 25 years,” said Noli Manuel, SFC International Coordinator. During the Holy Mass that concluded the event, Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief Chaplain Brig. Gen. Fr. Tirso Dolina reminded the finishers, “May your joy of winning, the fulfilment and the triumph in this run motivate you all to strive for holiness and win heaven for your souls.” The following runners won in the various categories of the SFC Silver Run: 5K Male Category: Alesandro Luciano 5K Female Category: Andrei Enriquez 10K Male Category: Mark Angelo Diagtan 10K Female Category: Joan Teves 25K Male Category: Romuald Tiangco 25K Female Category: Rose Sales (SFC Communications)
CFC Negros Occidental Holds Leaders Conference
“THE issue of charter change has overshadowed or sidelined all other major issues of paramount importance,” former Chief Justice Hilario Davide Jr., told the members and guests at the breakfast forum hosted by the St. Thomas More and Associates (STMA). The regular breakfast forum was held on March 3, 2018 at the Kalayaan Hall of Club Filipino in San Juan City. The former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court shared his insights on the issue of charter change and urged those present to act against the proposal to amend the 1987 constitution. “My stand on this charter change, especially against federalism, is publicly known. I have welcomed opportunities to share my views with others in hopes that the people may be able to share my views and understand exactly what it is all about, and not to be hoodwinked into believing in the ‘new paradise’ that proponents of charter change promised to them especially in these times of fake news and false news,” Davide said. He added, “I must tell you that this ‘new paradise’ is not for the people. It is for politicians who seek power, fortune, and fame, at the same time protecting themselves with that power and acquiring more fortune. The shift to federalism is a lethal experiment.” The former Chief Justice further elaborated on the ‘hell’ that people might experience as soon as ChaCha is implemented, such “hell” to include the hidden agenda of the politicians. “What our people need today is not a change in
the constitution by adapting the federal system but primarily the full implementation of the constitution such as those on social justice, the passage of a law implementing the anti-political dynasty policy and the amendments in the local government code to respond to the challenge for a more just and rational sharing of resources with the local political subdivisions,” added Davide. “No constitution is perfect because only God is perfect. (Our present constitution) is what is best for the country and for the people, and not just for our generation but even for the generations yet to come. It is the best in the world as a matter of fact, even if it is imperfect,” Davide emphasized. “It is the best because I do not know of any other constitution in the world that is pro-God, pro-Filipino, pro-people, pro-life, pro-family, pro-marriage, pro-poor, pro-human rights, prowomen, pro-environment among others.” Davide touched on the present attacks on our Christian values, especially on the institutions of marriage and the family. “We have now the recently proposed bill of the house adopting divorce in the Philippines. There is another one soon to follow, allowing same-sex marriage.” Davide said. The guests at the forum, a regular activity of the St. Thomas More and Associates, CFC’s Social Development Program for Good Governance, expressed their gratitude at the opportunity to hear the former Chief Justice expound on the issues that now threaten the very fiber of Philippine society. (Yvonne Dolorosa)
The CFC Co-ops Federation held its 13th General Assembly on February 25, 2018 in San Jose, Antique. Sixteen cooperative primaries were represented in the assembly. Elected to the Board of Directors were Jorge Asensi of Co-ops for Christ Southern Leyte Multipurpose Cooperative, Bong Bautista of the CFC Coops for Christ Multipurpose Cooperative (Agusan del Norte), Art San Luis of the Entre-Workers Multipurpose Cooperative (Iligan), and Zos Tayaban of Couples for Christ Multipurpose Cooperative Laguna I. On the day before the assembly, the delegates went on a Lakbay-Aral activity, visiting two cooperatives in Iloilo—the ISAT-U Cooperative and the Taytay sa Kauswagan— and another two in Antique—the San Jose Waterworks Service Cooperative and the San Jose Multipurpose Cooperative— to learn about best practices. FAMIN, p1
Vision for the next 25 years Quintero said, “For the next 25 years of the CFC Family Ministries, we hope that we will continue to be pro-active and relevant in our evangelization work.”
“Whatever will be the call of the times, whatever the realities of the families will be in the years to come, as long as we are inspired and empowered by the Holy Spirit, we will be
able to adapt to changes and renew our ministry so that we can continue to bring Christ to each member of the family, and to all the families in the world,” he added. (Andrelene Veloso)
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ABOUT 660 CFC leaders from all over Negros Occidental filled the St. John Marie Vianney Hall at San Sebastian Cathedral during the echo of the Leaders Conference on February 11. Holy Mass was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Arnold Deletina, parish priest of Queen of Peace, Bacolod City. Fr. Deletina, affirmed CFC NegOcc on their call as family evangelizers, with the aid of their devotion of the Our Lady of Lourdes, whose feast they celebrated on that day. Frank Nazareno, Sector Head of Metro Bacolod, East and Central Sector, led the opening worship, exhorting the CFCs to be open to the messages that God will be unveiling to them during the conference. In his welcome message,
Bebot Caceres, Provincial Area Director, warmly welcomed all the leaders from each sector and prayed that they will focus their hearts and minds on the activities for the day. Jorge Miravite, Provincial Area Head, delivered the first session titled Rekindle the Gift, emphasizing the call for CFC to reignite the gift of light that has been offered by the Lord, and to accept, open, use, share and celebrate the said gift in the community. In the second session, Shine the Bright Light of Christ, Board of Elders Moderator Joe Tale emphasized that the Holy Spirit that dwells in CFC is always bright and on fire, and can transform the toughest hearts as well as help everyone overcome suf-
fering and persecutions. He emphasized that the power of the Spirit’s fire that has been at work in each person has not changed. Tale added that rekindling the gift is done by honoring God’s vision for CFC through the community’s vision and mission, by standing firm in the CFC core values, through love that lights up and transforms moments, and through praise. Bryan Funcion, CFC Kids for Christ Provincial Coordinator, led the powerful closing worship. The leaders, with hearts overflowing with praise for the Lord, went home with hearts ablaze, ready to rekindle the gift and shine the bright light of Christ in Negros Occidental. (April Dawn Gabrido)
‘Joys’ in SFC's life. Acosta said, “Serving the community brings joy to our lives. But there are some instances that this joy is being robbed from us.” He added, “Even if we have been serving the community for almost half of our lives, we are not exempted from temptations and problems that take this joy away from us.” Acosta reminded the delegates that they will always find their way back by rooting their joy on J.O.Y.: J- Jesus, O- Others and Y- Yourself. Relentless! The third session focused on the main message of the conference: that God’s love is relentless. Aldy Katigbak highlighted that God’s relentless love allows one to respond by proclaiming the Word, to be persistent, to have the ability to convince, reprimand and encourage, to be selfpossessed and more importantly, to put up with the hardships. Fulfill Your Ministry! On the third day, Rev. Fr. Xavier Olin, SJ concelebrated the morning Mass with Fr. Jeffrey Rosales. Fr. Olin encouraged the participants to embrace the desert experience, as deserts are places and times of encounter, of preparation, of restoration and rediscovering lost selves, of overcoming temptation and building oneself from within. “Many times, we go through periods of desolation and confusion, we go through periods of great doubt… and these desert experiences,
difficult as they are, can restore our faith, ” Fr. Olin said. “They can bring back relationships, they can allow us to look back, reexamine our life, perhaps see what is lost, what are we giving up, what we are getting rid of, what we need to put back into our lives,” he added. The last session was given by Noli Manuel, SFC International Coordinator. Manuel presented a challenge and at the same called SFC to action: to step out into the world and to go out to the peripheries. In living out the SFC vision of “Every single man and woman all over the world, experiencing Christ”, Noli emphasized that each SFC is being called to reach out and embrace those who are single parents, young widows/widowers, young individuals whose marriages have been annulled, and those who have same-sex attractions. “The mission for us is not just to wait for them, but to look for them! We need to reach out to them so they can experience Christ’s love,” Manuel said. The conference ended with a powerful praisefest, bringing the conviction of every SFC delegate to an even higher level. The much-awaited announcement of the venues— General Santos for SFC ICON 2019 and Indonesia for SFC ICON 2020—was enough to bring the delegates to a state of joyful anticipation for the next conferences. (SFC ICON Media Team/Aj Cuntapay, Anlyn Pega, JV Monzon, Vanessa Tingson, Yvonne Dolorosa)
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CFC OSM Plans for 2018
VOLUNTEERS of the CFC Order of St. Michael coming from Manila, as well as Baguio and Cebu, started arriving at Hotel Dominique on February 11, 2018 for the CFC Order of St. Michael Strategic Planning. A total of 73 delegates logged in, all eager and enthusiastic to take part in crafting the plans for the year for OSM. The event started with prayer and worship led by Derrick Aguilar from MM South B. Willy Ona, OSM Vice-head, followed with his welcome remarks, putting emphasis on service to God in the uniformed personnel sector. In his inspirational message, CFC Chairman Melo Villaroman Jr. recounted memories of his father and grandfather who were both in the military service, and how they were instrumental in guiding him to love God and his family. He narrated that if OSM CEP had been available for the military personnel and leadership back then, more soldiers would have been guided to live righteous and better lives. SOCDEV Head Mon de Leon zeroed in on ‘The Good News of Deliverance” in his message. He shared that he has recognized in his life the value of CFC household prayer meetings, chapter prayer assemblies, serving in the CLP as a way of life for CFC, while serving in the social development programs such the CFC Migrants Program, CFC Project ReForm, or the OSM. He emphasized that the latter programs are “extra mile” service that every CFC should get involved in. Art Alabanza, OSM Head, presented his vision for OSM, showing the delegates how OSM came to be, starting from a prophesy by St. Louis de Monfort in 1700 saying, “Mary will raise up apostles of the latter times to make war against the evil one… the power of Mary over all the devils will specially shine forth in the latter times…” He believes it is now the time and OSM is Mary’s army of apostles.
Alabanza presented a SWOT analysis of OSM, as well as OSM’s strategies and targets for the year. He emphasized that the group should always remember to be humble for the OSM is God’s work and that each person is called to be His workers. Ricky Cuenca had everybody on fire with his message: “The work is big and we need on fire workers, we need the passion and the re-energized spirit to fulfill the vision of families in the spirit renewing the face of the earth.” Before the lunch break, Roland Arrogante facilitated the team building session. The activity elicited powerful realizations about the mission in OSM. In the afternoon session, the assembly was divided into several groups, each discussing the different branches of the military, namely: Group NBI (led by Roland Ong); Group PRO4 CALABARZON (Tony O’bien); Group Cebu (Larry Gonzaga); Group PNP CG MAAP PMMA (Jess Millan); Group PMA (Claro Unson); Group Airport Police (Ric Martin); Group OSM Documentation (Imee Ona); Group Philippine Army (Rudy Jimenez); and Group PNP BJMP BFP (Benny Fortajada). On Day 2, Fr. Ian Emping, SSP, of Cavite, celebrated the Mass. In his homily, he encouraged CFC OSM to serve wholeheartedly as they answer the call of God to serve. After the Eucharistic celebration, the groups presented their respective SWOT analyses and strategies to the plenary. With the OSM Vision, the uniformed personnel have so much to look forward to through the Character Enhancement Modules. The positive feedback both from the volunteers from CFC OSM and the military personnel who have undergone the modules are affirmations that reiterate the Holy Father Pope Francis’ call to help and evangelize the men and women in the military and police forces. Alabanza reminded the group to adhere to the OSM Motto: “Pride will destroy us,
humility empowers us” and reminded them that much needs to be done in order to fulfill the mission entrusted to them. Finally, Arrogante gave a recap of the planning session and provided the participants with some pointers to take away: 1. Accountability; 2. Leadership; 3. Follow through; 4. Avoid being blindsided by annoying issues; 5. Put God first and everything will follow; 6. Work within one’s sphere of influence and do not forget to seek the help of God and other people every time one is stonewalled; 7. Be humble, submit to the leadership of your elders and never allow the ego to be an issue. CFC IC member and Evangelization and Missions Director Arnel Santos charged the volunteers of CFC OSM, quoting words from Book of 2 Timothy 4:1-5: “I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom: preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching. For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths. As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.” Santos assured the volunteers of the IC support and added that he will help encourage the Metro Manila Sectors to embrace the mission of OSM. He also pledged to initiate the meeting of the Sector SOCDEV heads of Metro Manila and OSM leaders, and look into the possibility of using untapped funds of the ANCOP Global Walk as scholarship funds for children of uniformed personnel. (Elmer D. Jacob)
CFC Cavite ready to take on CFC ReForm mission
THE CFC VATICAN OFFICE AT 2 —REKINDLING THE GIFT WE BLEW and blew, but the flame of the two lighted candles on the cake during the CFC Vatican Office’s second anniversary could not be extinguished. (It was one of those special fireworks candles.) It was very symbolic -the significance and honor of having an office in the Vatican is, after all, a gift from the Holy Spirit and continues to be rekindled! It has now been two years since we inaugurated the CFC Vatican Office on February 20, 2016. Our second anniversary celebration started with a Holy Mass at the nearby parish, San Gregorio VII Church, officiated by Fr. Greg Gaston, Rector of the Collegio Filipino in Rome, who also did the blessing at the inauguration. Fr. Nico Espinosa, Rector of the SVD Mother House in Rome, concelebrated. It was followed by a simple reception at the office. CFC members from Rome led by area leaders Alex and Julie Poyaoan attended the simple celebration. Among the guests were some leaders of the Filipino Chaplaincy in Rome. Here’s a bit of trivia: Did you know that when an office in Rome was first offered by the Vatican in 2014, CFC decided not to take it? Then in 2015, CFC’s interest was rekindled and we hoped that the Vatican would reconsider the offer. Through the help of Cardinal George Pell, the property was made available to us again although another organization was interested
in it by then. With the grace of God, the property became ours and on February 18, 2016, we signed an eight-year lease agreement from 2016 to 2024. For all CFC members worldwide, the CFC Vatican Office is a source of great joy and thanksgiving. It is a concrete expression of our being “one with the Catholic Church” and “a global community”. Many CFC members have visited the office, from as far away as Canada, the USA, New Zealand and Sabah, and they were all unanimous in expressing how blessed we are to have such an office. From our experience of the past two years, communication with the Vatican Curia has been much closer and easier. We now receive emails and letters directly from the Vatican. Our letters seem to get attention and obtain quicker response when the CFC Letterhead has the address “Via del Cottolengo 19, Roma”. Also, I have realized that enormous potentials exist to expand our ministries through the Vatican dicasteries. Now the Vatican knows more deeply about our very active ministries for the young—kids, youth, singles. This is important because the next Synod of Bishops, in October, 2018, will deal mainly with the young! Another example: they are learning only now that CFC has a ministry for widows and divorced/separated women, a vulnerable group Pope Francis himself said should be
given special attention and care. We have expressed to the Vatican our ability and willingness to be part of any resource or working groups ministering to these types of people, among others. CFC’s presence in Rome also allows us to partner with various religious congregations who are required by the Vatican to locate their global headquarters in Rome. For example, since early 2017, we have been working with the SVD Curia in Rome to expand our evangelization work to more countries in Africa and South America where the SVD has numerous parishes. We have also been partnering with the Filipino Chaplaincy in Rome to increase our evangelization in the area, which effort can also be initiated (if not yet done) in the various Filipino chaplaincies in Europe. As part of the original plan, making the CFC Vatican Office the CFC Europe Continental Missions Office is now being earnestly implemented. This will enhance CFC’s work of evangelization and mission in Europe and beyond. All in all, I believe CFC has made significant breakthroughs in our relationship building with the Vatican through the CFC Vatican Office, and opportunities abound in using this office to enhance and expand our evangelization not only in Europe but throughout the world. Let us therefore rekindle and love this special gift! (Nick Borja)
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SFC Pre-ICon activities On February 13 to 15, the SFC Pre- delegates from the Philippine and International Missions were challenged to ENCOUNTER Manila through an encounter with people on the streets, those in need, and God. On Day 1, the delegates were divided into groups and assigned to different venues for their immersion, including the DOH Treatment and Rehabilitation Center in Bicutan, Grace to be Born (Home for Abandoned Children) in Pasig, Sagip Batampalengke, also in Pasig, the Metro Manila District Jail, and the Golden Reception and Action Center for the Elderly and Other Special Cases (GRACES). Each team prepared activities and gave gifts to the residents in the assigned institutions. Their second day itinerary was filled with activities such as cleaning the streets of Pasig. Later in the afternoon, everyone learned about the Filipino spirit of bayanihan through the Parish Encounter as they helped in cleaning the church premises. In the evening, the Pre-IConers joined the “old-timers” at the SFC Grand Reunion, which was held at the Metro Tent in Pasig City. On the third day, the delegates heard Mass at the Saint Francis Church of Assisi Parish, Mandaluyong, after which they were given a tour of the RAVE (Rainforest Adventure Experience) in Pasig. They ended the Pre-ICon activities with a fun party at Jollibee. Hours before the ICON proper, delegates from 28 countries from International Missions of Singles for Christ gathered to discuss the updates and directions for 2018 at the Makati Sports Club on February 16, 2018. Ace Lu, SFC fulltime pastoral worker, gave updates and the SFC State of the Mission.
Manuel also presented the 2018 SFC thrusts and priorities. Finally, a day after the International Conference, the Global Leaders’ Summit (GLS) served as an opportunity for SFC leaders from different countries to reconnect with one another. For this year’s GLS, discussions were held to see what other measures the ministry can do and improve in the next 25 years, including the new areas that SFC will handle (the Campuses, BPOs and Corporate evangelization, and the peripheries). The leaders also discussed how best to accompany SFCs facing various realities. In the next 25 years, SFC would like to embrace and journey with mature unmarried members, young widows or widowers, single parents, singles with same-sex attraction, and young couples who have had their marriages annulled. “With these new directions, we now highlight the need for couple coordinators to be their (the SFC’s) pastors,” Noli Manuel said in his closing exhortation. “It would be more challenging, more meaningful and more Spirit filled because we really need the Holy Spirit to do all of these,” he added. Lawrence Quintero, CFC Family Ministries Director, asked the leaders this question: ‘What do you do when people who are dear to you are the ones who are among the lost?’ His answer was: “First, we go to them just like Jesus did to his friend Lazarus. Second, we go back to them so we would be able to bring them back to the fold. Third, we search for them just as the woman did in the Parable of the Lost Coin. And lastly, we welcome them, eagerly wait for them and run to them just like the father did to his prodigal son.” (Yvonne Dolorosa)
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CFC Cavite cluster heads participated in the first run of the CFC Project ReForm Vanguard Training from March 3 to 4, 2018 at the Knights of Columbus Hall, Molino, Cavite. The Vanguard Training is conducted to prepare and equip talk therapists in engaging with community-based drug patients under the pastoral care of parishes. Pons Gutierrez, Social Development Program Head for CFC Cavite, initiated the request for the training in order to prepare the province for the mission of caring for recovering drug patients. The Vanguard Training is composed of the C.A.R.S training that will equip the basic skills for Calibration, Anchoring, Rapport building and editing of Sub-modalities. These skills are essential so that therapists are able to gain trust and build relationship with the drug surrenderers. The second part of the training is an orientation to the Road to Recovery (R2R) Program modules. The R2R Program is composed of three modules with 13 sessions, one session given every week to the recovering drug patients. The modules are aptly named “To Change Route” for Module 1 (S.T.O.P), “To Follow the Sign” for
Module 2 (D.R.U.G.), and “Road to Recovery” for Module 3 (A.B.U.S.E.), each letter of the session titles standing for Self, Trust, Overcome, Prayer, Decision, Realization, Uplift, Goal-setting, Affirmation, Better Life, Unselfish Love, Scripture, and Establish Community Support. Noel Deang, CFC ReForm Coordinator for Visayas and Mindanao, conducted the training. On Day 2, the delegates were assigned to deliver sample sessions with coaching and critiquing. After the training, CFC Cavite is expected to use the modules in serving patients in the rehabilitation center in Tagaytay, and possibly the inmates inside the Bacoor City Jail. Collaborations with the local diocese are also possibly in the pipeline. CFC Soc Dev Programs Head Mon de Leon exhorted the participants to not be discouraged to serve and give their extra mile in the Social Development Programs of CFC. He said that these programs are CFC’s response to the call of the Holy Father to reach out to those in the peripheries, and are gateways for evangelization. (Alma Alvarez)
and death on how to love and forgive,” Msgr. Aganon said. The Mission Core was asked to reflect on the situations and circumstances that call them to give more and to love more, which, for Msgr. Aganon, is natural for humans. He said, “What could be difficult is when we give our all and sometimes expect something in return. This is not what happened in the Garden of Gethsemane. This is not who Jesus is.” Although Jesus did not want to face pain and agony, He chose obedience to His Father over His
own will. Jesus accepted everything with a warm and forgiving heart. Msgr. Aganon said, “This is what the Lord is asking of us in this Lenten season: We are loving people, self-giving people, but can we go beyond that? Can we love? Can we give as a real lover without bitterness in our hearts? Can we go through this pain, these difficulties in life with a forgiving heart?” “Let us pray for this, brothers and sisters. It is always a challenge. It is always a test. It is more about loving without bitterness and resentment, and giving with forgiveness,” he concluded. (Yvonne Dolorosa)
The News Supplement of Couples for Christ
Michael C. Ariola IC Oversight Zenaida A. Gimenez Editor-in-Chief
Alma M. Alvarez Associate Editor
Andrelene D. Veloso Editorial Assistant
Yvonne Grace J. Dolorosa Staff Writer
Deomar P. Oliveria Layout Artist
Evangeline C. Mecedilla Circulation Staff
The Ugnayan News Supplement is published by the Couples for Christ Global Mission Foundation, Inc., with editorial offices at 156 20th Avenue, 1109 Cubao, Quezon City. Editorial trunk line: (+63 2) 709-4868 local 31 Direct line : (+63 2) 709-4856 www.couplesforchristglobal.org globalcommunications@couplesforchristglobal.org
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March 5 - 18, 2018 Vol. 22 No. 05
CFC USA re-enters Mexico
“WE HAD a fruitful mission trip to Mexico,” Roger Santos reported to CFC Chairman Melo Villroman Jr., Evangelization and Missions Director Arnel Santos, CFC USA National Director Toffee Jeturian, International Missions Head for the Americas Bboy Arguelles, and ANCOP Canada President Ricky Cuenca. The Mexico mission was on February 17, 2018, with Santos’ wife Josie, and Rod Bustos completing the mission team. Santos reported that first, Team USA had a meeting with Mikhael de Dios, consul and charge d’ affairs of the Philippine consulate in Mexico, with de Dios providing them statistics on the number of Filipinos in the following countries: Mexico – 700; Costa Rica – 500; Cuba – 26; El Salvador – 20; Honduras – 200; Nicaragua – 150 to 200; Panama – 1,000; and Guatemala – 150. These numbers, aside from the locals, rep-
resent potential participants in CLPs for this region. Secondly, the group reached out to local parishes, particularly with Fr. Santiago Crespo of Parroquia de los Santos Reyes to discuss CFC’s work and mission. Fr. Crespo advised the team to set a meeting with the bishop of the Archdiocese of Mexico, Archbishop Adolfo Miguel. Next steps will include a meeting with the CFC PPC (Parejas Para Cristo) leaders for help especially in communicating to the key persons in Spanish. Lastly, the team had a spirit-filled encounter with the Provincial SVD head of Mexico and Cuba, Fr. John Benas. In their meeting, Fr. Benas committed the following: 1. Start CFC-CLP in three SVD parishes in Mexico, with Bustos working out the details for the Christian Life Program;
HISTORY was made last February 23 to 24 in the town of Blacks Harbour, New Brunswick as the Atlantic region held its first CFC Leaders Conference and Evangelization Rally. A mission team, composed of full time missionaries and mission volunteers, coordinated with local CFC to help organize the event. The weekend began on Friday evening with a 60s-themed fellowship night. The night was filled with music, games, and a potluck dinner. This first event helped to unite CFC and the locals and foster a closer relationship with the community. The CFC Leaders Conference started on Saturday morning with over 40 members in attendance. Speak-
ers Henjie San Juan and Francis Apgao delivered the theme for the year—Rekindle the Gift and Fulfill the Ministry. The conference also featured local CFC members Ray Leger and Kay Mennie as sharers which was a first for the area. The Leaders conference ended with Holy Mass presided by Rev. Fr. Rolando Suplido and a short lunch break, before heading into the Evangelization Rally. The rally began with a creative play telling the origin of Couples for Christ in the Atlantic, an excellent bridge for recognizing the past and looking forward to the blessings of the future. Jun Clarito led the ministries in a short exhortation, rallying the members
to share their Godgiven gift and use it as a means to evangelize. The weekend concluded with a praise parade showcasing the different ministries present both in New Brunswick and across the Atlantic. The weekend was a momentous occasion for the Atlantic region as CFC plants its feet in the east coast of Canada. It was a weekend of celebrating the victories and joys of the past three years, and more importantly the hard work and dedication of God’s faithful. The Lord truly has great things in store for the people of the Atlantic and this event was just a glimpse of the many blessings He has in store. (Keegan Fernandes)
These are indeed exciting times for CFC USA and for ANCOP. This new mission will hopefully rekindle CFC’s fire in the entire South American region. (CFC USA Communications)
of nurturing and effectively communicating with the youth under their care. Many confessed that caring for a large number of youth can often be overwhelming, but knowing that the care and love they give each of the young people draws them not only closer to them, the coordinators, but to their families and especially to God, is all worth it. The youth, on the other hand, expressed their admiration for their coordinators as they testified that they draw inspiration from witnessing coordinators work hard hand in hand towards the youth’s personal, emotional and spiritual development. Everyone enthused that the activity, held at the beginning of each year, helps them achieve the joyful attitude and commitment that are needed in fulfilling the mission throughout the year. (Kriselle Anne Fuentes, YFC UAE)
CFC SCHEDULE OF EVENTS 2018
Canada Leaders Converge for 1st Atlantic Assembly and Evangelization Rally
2. CFC will present its vision and mission at the global SVD meeting in Paraguay on Saturday, November 10, 2018. This will be a very important engagement as the CFC USA team will meet all of the Zone 1 Provincial SVD heads from around the globe; 3. SVD will go into partnership with ANCOP USA in conducting medical missions in Mexico, where ANCOP USA will provide from $500,000 to $1 million worth of medicines and send medical volunteers; 4. Fr. Benas will introduce CFC to the following countries where SVD is present: Panama, Nicaragua, Brazil, Honduras, Cuba and Aruba.
YFC UAE Couple Coordinators Go on Team Building
THE couple coordinators of Youth for Christ in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) held their annual Couple Coordinator Team Building activity on January 25. YFC coordinators from all over UAE gathered to strengthen their communication skills as well as to deepen their relationship with one another. The goal of the team building activities, which included an Amazing Race-style competition, was to help couple coordinators realize the depth of trust and coordination that now exist among them and most especially among those they serve, the youth. Randomly grouped so as to further bring them out of their comfort zone, the coordinators went through a number of activities that fulfilled the goal of the activity — they deepened interpersonal relationships, and they realized the value
CBCP Monitor
CFC HIROSHIMA TURNS ONE! THE second Sunday of Lent, February 28, 2018 marked the very first anniversary celebration of CFC Hiroshima. Held at the Jesuit Retreat House in the beautiful hill area of Nagatsukanashi, Hiroshima, the celebration gathered CFC members for an amazing spiritual gathering. SFC household leader Reji Obedencio led the praise and worship assisted by the music ministry. SFC Head Edcel De La Torre, who came all the way from Tokyo, presented the inspirational talk regarding Financial Stewardship. In the afternoon, the assembly prayed the Stations of the Cross, with solemn prayers accompanied by spiritual songs. It was followed by the celebration of the Mass with Fr. Alex Varickmackal officiating. In his homily, Fr. Varickmackal emphasized the message of Pope Francis about taking up the Lenten journey with enthusiasm, sustained by almsgiving, fasting and prayer. The special event concluded with a wonderful praisefest thanking God for the fruitful
year He blessed the community with. It was just a year ago when unit heads Manny and Helen Cajilog started the evangelization of a few couples with the help of CFC leaders Percival and Sai Padilla. By God’s grace, the group grew bigger with the third batch of graduates being welcomed after the successful Christian Life Program in December 2017. This year, the community is planning to have two CLPs and its first CFC Youth Camp. This is only the beginning and CFC
Hiroshima will continue to rekindle the gift of God and fulfill its ministry. The success of the community would not be possible without the dedication of CFC leaders Rosario Charo, Carmi and Raffi Roble and Toshi Sugino. Most notably, CFC Hiroshima would not have great ties with the local church if not for the incredible support of Bishop Alexis Mitsuru Shirahama of the Diocese of Hiroshima and the parish priest, Fr. Domenico Vitali. (Glen Orlanes)
ANCOP Regina engages with families in Albay
DESPITE the threat posed by the continuing eruptions and lava flow of Mt. Mayon, delegates from Holy Child Parish in Saskatchewan, Canada, led by CFC ANCOP Regina, shared their time and gave hope to the residents of Tabaco City, Albay through an immersion from February 19-22, 2018. The delegates, on their first day, celebrated joy with the new 27 home partners in CFC ANCOP Canada Saskatchewan Community through a turn over ceremony. One of the home partners, 41-year-old Letty Patricio, whose house stands within the 6-km danger zone in Tabaco, shared their current situation and struggles. She said, “Mahirap ang aming kalagayan. Una
sa lahat, kami ay napilitang umalis sa aming tirahan at lumipat sa evacuation center. Naiwan din ang aming kabuhayan at mga alagang hayop sa bukirin upang kami ay makalikas.” (Our situation is really difficult. We had to flee from our home and move to an evacuation center, forcing us to leave our livelihood and livestock.) Letty, along with other families, face not just the threat of the Mayon eruption. They are also unsure whether or not they still have a home to return to. Although they found a temporary shelter through the evacuation centers, daily survival has been a challenge. On the other hand, Lorna Broncate, 59, and her husband, 61, also evacuees, ex-
pressed their joy when they were blessed with a new home through CFC ANCOP. Lorna said, “ Kami po ay palaging sa Diyos kumakapit kahit sa oras ng ginhawa o kagipitan. Laking biyaya na kami ay napabilang sa komunidad at nabigyan pa ng pabahay. Lalo po naming titibayan ang aming debosyon sa Panginoon bilang kabahagi ng CFC, sampu ng aming pamilya.” (We always held on to the Lord whether it is in good times or bad. It is a blessing that we became part of this community and were awarded a new home. As a family, we will strive to remain faithful to the Lord, being members of CFC.) The delegates also spent their time conducting relief operations and having fellowship with the families at the ANCOP site. ANCOP Regina Coordinators, Greg and Chelo Ravasco, along with the former parish priest of Holy Child Parish in Regina, Canada, Fr. Dan Dan Rafael, brought not just bags of goods from parishioners in Canada, but also hope to CFC brethren who were affected by the volcanic activities in Albay. The immersion ended with the team finding fulfillment in not just being instruments of hope and light, but an extension of God’s love and care to the residents. (Diana Mendoza)