CBCP Monitor
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July 20 - August 2, 2015 Vol. 19 No. 15
The News Supplement of Couples for Christ
Caring for Our Common Home
The CFC Nationwide Tree Growing Day IN POPE Francis’ latest encyclical Laudato Si, he reminds the faithful that humanity’s common home is “like a sister with whom we share our life and a beautiful mother who opens her arms to embrace us.” He also quoted from St. Francis of Assisi’s Canticle of Creatures: “Praise be to you, my Lord, through our Sister, Mother Earth, who sustains and governs us, and who produces various fruit with colored flowers and herbs.”
To concretely live this out, Couples for Christ declared July 18, 2015 as Nationwide Tree Growing Day. CFC from the Metro Manila Sectors and the Philippine Missions, in partnership with DENR-PENRO, planted thousands of seedlings all over the country. The activity was spearheaded by OIKOS, with help from CFC HOLD’s Ang Ganda Mo! and YFC’s Greeneration. The activity was also in support of the Philippine National Greening Program. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) provided CFC with the planting area and seedlings, while CFC took care of the transportation and manpower to do the actual planting. Members from CFC and the Family Ministries actively participated and genuinely enjoyed the experience. Perhaps this could be a yearly event? (Text: CFC Docu Team; Photos courtesy of Metro Manila Missions and Philippine Missions Documentation)
On to a green future! 1. CFC Pampanga at Mt. Arayat; 2. HOLD Bacolod; CFC Capiz; 4. CFC Bulacan; 5. CFC Occidental Mindoro at Abra de Ilog; 6. CFC Isabela at Magat Watershed; 7. CFC Southern Leyte at Barangay Laboon, Maasin City with Governor Roger Mercado and Maasin City Councilor Rene Hatayna; 8. New trees for Ipo Dam; 9. HOLD Laguna at the National Housing Authority Relocation Site, Southville, Calauan; 10. CFC Apayao; 11. HOLD Cavite at Camella Springville East 1, Molino, Bacoor; 12. CFC South Cotabato; 13. CFC Isabela.
CFC Statement On The Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) Ruling EVERY human person is a gift. And it is in our discovery that we are a gift – a gift that must be shared – that we are able to relentlessly pursue our deep longing for happiness – a kind of happiness that is not short-lived but rather transcends through time, a kind of happiness that not only would edify us but also the one with whom we decide to offer ourselves. The recent decision by the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) calling the ban on same-sex marriage as unconstitutional, thereby affirming its approval for it, has triggered waves of reaction from various parts of the world. Lesbians, gays, bisexuals, trans-genders (LGBT’s) and other people who support their cause have hailed the decision as a landmark decision that promotes equality and liberty for everyone regardless of their sexual orientation. It is, for them, a decision that has at long last destroyed the barrier of exclusivity of marriage between a man and a woman which they find as discriminatory. But while the decision has been celebrated by some sectors, we who uphold the truth about the sanctity of marriage view the recent development not necessarily as a death of morality but rather as a call by the Lord for a deeper sense of introspection - a greater call for us to reflect on our own innate giftedness, individually and collectively, so that, moved with greater zeal, we can more actively respond to the challenges that threaten the very foundations of the family. The decision sends a clear message for us to widen our understanding of the issue at hand and, more importantly, to use our Christian values as a tool to open the eyes of those who have developed a deluded sense of happiness and freedom. In line with the teachings of the Catholic Church, we in Couples for Christ: • Firmly believe that marriage is first and foremost a gift and part of God’s plan for the good of humanity. It is not born out of a whim but rather a vocation that requires deep commitment and dedication. It is evidence of God’s great confidence that humanity man and woman - have the ability to share and participate in His desire to bring into existence another human person as marriage “is ordered to the procreation and education of the offspring and it is in them that it finds
its crowning glory.” (CCC 1652) Will continue to uphold the truth that marriage can only be between a man and a woman. We recognize that “God inscribed in the humanity of man and woman the vocation, and thus the capacity and responsibility, of love and communion” (CCC 2331) • Stand firm in our belief that sexual desire leaves room for the exercise of the will. And in exercising that will, the human person “should acknowledge and accept his sexual identity” (CCC 2333) – both body and soul – not rejecting any part of it and, in so doing, able to totally give himself to another person who would be able to fully receive him because of the complementary nature inscribed in their bodies. • Continue to believe that, in man’s pursuit of happiness, freedom is not absolute and has its own limitations. And that by “deviating from the moral law man violates his own freedom, becomes imprisoned within himself, disrupts neighbourly fellowship, and rebels against divine truth.” (CCC 1740) Maintain our respect for people of homosexual orientation. We acknowledge that they too have been given by the Lord various gifts essential for the fulfilment of God’s plan. At the same time, we fully understand that what they need is acceptance and not tolerance, that we should not waver in inviting them to “self-mastery that teach them inner freedom, at times by the support of disinterested friendship, by prayer and sacramental grace; they can and should gradually and resolutely approach Christian perfection.” (CCC 2359) The times have truly been challenging for the Christian faith. But while we can continue to voice out our opposition against those who threaten marriage, we should more resolutely pursue more effective ways by which we can defend the family. Our own marriages and family lives, because they are centered on Christian values, should be a living witness to a world that would rather listen to actions than words. By having our message clearly heard, we may then lead others towards the right path to happiness and freedom, indeed to Christ Himself. We must all the more persevere in prayer and in faith in order that our marriages become a genuine reflection of God’s image here on earth!
CFC Leaders Attend National Convention on Family & Life
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IN preparation for the various Church events in 2016, and to lay down the responses to Pope Francis' challenge to the Filipino families, the Episcopal Commission on Family and life (ECFL) convened the clergy, religious, lay communities and parish workers involved in the family and life ministry in the National Convention on Family and Life last July 16 to 18, 2015 at the Summit Circle Hotel in Cebu City. The Convention also presented the ECFL Pastoral Plans and Initiatives for the next years and discussed as well the coming 2016 Year of the Family and the Eucharist. International Council members George Campos and wife Cynthia; Rouquel Ponte and wife Nina; Jimmy Ilagan and wife Lorna; and Manny Garcia and wife Ditas, plus other CFCs from the various Dioceses attended the NCFL. George Campos was one of the presenters for the Extraordinary Synod on the Family. On Day 1, Fr. Miguel Garcia, SSS, Executive Secretary and member of the CBCP permanent Committee on the International Eucharistic Congress (IEC), gave an orientation on the IEC, which is set to happen on January 24 to 31, 2016 in Cebu. On Day 2, in his Keynote Address, His Excellency Archbishop Socrates Villegas, CBCP President and Archbishop of Lingayen-Dagupan, enumerated the various events in the Philippine Church which will happen
next year—the silver anniversary of the convocation of the Second Plenary Council of the Philippines, the Year of the Eucharist and the Family, and the Jubilee Year of Mercy. Archbishop Villegas exhorted the delegates on the significance of the Convention with the milestone events of 2016, saying, “If we want renewal, we must learn to kneel again.” He encouraged the faithful to kneel in repentance for renewal in the Jubilee Year of Mercy; to kneel to adore for renewal in the Year of the Eucharist; to kneel and wash each other’s feet for renewal in the Year of the Family; and to be kneeling missionaries for renewal in the Philippine Church. This set the tone for the day, as the delegates listened to responses on the Extraordinary Synod of the Family. Day 3 saw the meeting of the Family and Life Diocesan Directors and the Heads of National Organizations regarding the 2016 Year of the Eucharist and Family, and the World Meeting of Families on September 22 to 25, 2015, happening in Philadelphia, USA. At the end of the Convention, the Most Reverend Gilbert Garcera, DD, Bishop of the Dioceses of Daet, led the celebration of the Pontifical Eucharistic Concelebrated Mass. (CFC Docu Team)
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July 20 - August 2, 2015 Vol. 19 No. 15
CFC USA National Council Statement on the U.S. Supreme Court Decision on Same-sex Marriage JUNE 26, 2015 will forever be a dark day for our nation, with the United States Supreme Court decision requiring all states to recognize and legitimize same-sex marriages. CFC USA’s position on this issue has never wavered. Our CFC Global Vision states that we are one with the Catholic Church and its teachings. One of our CFC Global goals includes strengthening and defending the family as a basic unit of society and of the Church in accordance with God’s plan. Our CFC Statement of Philosophy states: WE BELIEVE in marriage as an indissoluble institution as taught by our Lord Jesus Christ (Mt 19:6). That God created marriage primarily for love between man and woman, and for the procreation and proper rearing of children. WE BELIEVE that God created man and wife with equal personal worth and dignity. That God ordained order in the family by giving the man the role as head of the family and the woman as helpmate and support, which best expresses their complementarity. True to our CFC theme of 2015, our response is to “Love More”. • We will love more our God and faithfully obey His Commandments. • We will love more our Church that He instituted and continue to promote, defend and live by her teachings.
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We will love more our children and the younger generation and pass on to them God’s truth on marriage. • We will love more our brethren with opposing views and treat them with respect, justice and pastoral care. • We will love more by not being indifferent or passive, but instead by being a light of Christ in this world that seeks to destroy the basic unit of society, the family. Below is the full statement from Archbishop Joseph E. Kurtz of Louisville, Kentucky, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB): Regardless of what a narrow majority of the Supreme Court may declare at this moment in history, the nature of the human person and marriage remains unchanged and unchangeable. Just as Roe v. Wade did not settle the question of abortion over forty years ago, Obergefell v. Hodges does not settle the question of marriage today. Neither decision is rooted in the truth, and as a result, both will eventually fail. Today the Court is wrong again. It is profoundly immoral and unjust for the government to declare that two people of the same sex can constitute a marriage. The unique meaning of marriage as the union of one man and one woman is inscribed in our bodies as male and female. The protection of this meaning is a critical dimension of the “integral ecology” that Pope Francis has called us to promote. Mandating marriage redefinition across the country is a tragic error that harms the common good and most vulnerable among us, especially children. The law has a duty to support every child’s basic
right to be raised, where possible, by his or her married mother and father in a stable home. Jesus Christ, with great love, taught unambiguously that from the beginning marriage is the lifelong union of one man and one woman. As Catholic bishops, we follow our Lord and will continue to teach and to act according to this truth. I encourage Catholics to move forward with faith, hope, and love: faith in the unchanging truth about marriage, rooted in the immutable nature of the human person and confirmed by divine revelation; hope that these truths will once again prevail in our society, not only by their logic, but by their great beauty and manifest service to the common good; and love for all our neighbors, even those who hate us or would punish us for our faith and moral convictions. Lastly, I call upon all people of good will to join us in proclaiming the goodness, truth, and beauty of marriage as rightly understood for millennia, and I ask all in positions of power and authority to respect the God-given freedom to seek, live by, and bear witness to the truth. We strongly encourage all CFC USA members to be united in our efforts to pray, fast, offer up our daily Rosary and Mass intentions, and make our voices be heard through the democratic process by upholding marriage in our respective states and continue to promote, defend and live the good and the truth of marriage as the blessed union of one man and one woman as husband and wife for life.
CSP is expanding in Kenya!
THE COUNTIES of Nakuru, Narok and Rusinga, located midwest of Kenya, are the latest recipients of the Child Sponsorship Program (CSP) as ANCOP expands its program in Kenya. In the past year, ANCOP’s CSP has been operating in two key Kenyan cities of Soweto and Eldoret, providing for the educational needs of over 80 poor Kenyan children. In a recent visit to Kenya, ANCOP Canada coordinated with members of the clergy and nuns managing various schools to initiate the CSP and to ensure continuity. The highlight of the mission trip was the meeting with various Archbishops and Bishops of Kenya who welcomed ANCOP Canada warmly and expressed appreciation for the work of CFC and ANCOP. Among them were Bishop David Kamau of Nairobi; Bishop Maurice Muhatya of Nakuru; Bishop Philip Anyolo of Homabay; and Archbishop Martin Kivuvu of Mombasa. Fr. James Kairu, a Kenyan priest based in Vancouver, BC, facilitated the meetings. The Bishops strongly encouraged ANCOP Canada to continue
the work, and to be patient and faithful in its efforts to help the poor. Bishop Maurice Muhatya of the Diocese of Nakuru committed full support to the program as he entered into a contract agreement with ANCOP Canada towards the educational support of 15 seminarians in his diocese. Present during the signing of the agreement was the diocese’s Vocation Director Fr. David Ngigi. In Narok, 32 children in grade school became the recipients of CSP at St. Clare School through the Contract of Agreement signed with Sr. Elizabeth Paragua, the school head. Fr. Moses Khisa of the Franciscan Capuchins in Rusinga, Homabay signed the contract for the initial scholarship of 15 children in his school. In the words of the clergy working alongside ANCOP, “The clergy and the people of Kenya truly appreciate CFC’s help in strengthening families and its compassion for the poor.” CFC and the CFC ANCOP team in Kenya are just grateful for the opportunity to love and serve the less fortunate and to be able to help pave the way for them to reach their dreams. (Malou Clarito, ANCOP CSP Coordinator, Kenya)
CBCP Monitor
ANCOP Launched at Parliament Hill
CFC ANCOP Canada was recently brought for the first time to Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Canada’s capital. This is historic for ANCOP Canada as it brings forward its global work of helping the poor to the seat of the government of Canada. CFC ANCOP Ottawa opened up an opportunity for ANCOP to raise the government’s awareness about its work, and to rally support for its shelter and child education sponsorship programs. The ANCOP launching was a prelude to the annual ANCOP Walk slated in August in major cities across the country including Calgary, Edmonton, Fort McMurray, Hamilton, Lethbridge, Montreal, Ottawa, Regina, Saskatoon, Toronto, Vancouver, Victoria, Windsor, Winnipeg and Yellowknife. The ANCOP Walk is a major annual fundraising event of ANCOP International Canada as well as the ANCOP global family, aimed to raise funds to build homes for poor families and to send poor children to school. The ANCOP Walk also encourages people to get involved and to campaign for funds. The launching materialized through the initiative of Filipino-Canadian Senator Tobias (Jun) Enverga, who has always been a strong supporter of ANCOP. The senator’s colleagues in Parliament Hill took time to participate in this event. Distinguished guests included Pierre Poilievre, Minister of Employment and Social Development and Minister of State (Democratic Reform); Senator Thanh Hai Ngo; Senator Mobina Jaffer; and Philippine Consul General in Ottawa, Eric Tamayo. Members of local organizations including Migrante Ontario, Archdiocese of Ottawa, the media, and Patricia Marsden-Dole were also present. Leaders of CFC ANCOP from Ottawa and Toronto came in huge numbers, recognizing the significance of the occasion. Rhea Rivilla, a member of Couples for Christ Ottawa emceed the program. Minister Pierre Poilievre, in his keynote speech, highlighted the federal government’s ongoing support for the poor and its commitment to help not only the poor in Canada but also the poor in other countries. “Canada is a great place to live and everyone is welcome here,” the Minister said. He also shared that he is proud of the Filipino community and what it has done for this country. He expressed support for ANCOP and the forthcoming ANCOP Walk, encouraging everyone to continue the good work. Senator Thanh Hai Ngo is an advocate for freedom, democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. He spoke highly of Senator Enverga’s passion and dedication to help the poor, and he, too supports ANCOP’s work. He said that he is encouraged by the contribution of the Filipino community in
Canada and by the work they have done to uplift the poor. Senator Mobina Jaffer, representing the province of British Columbia, chairs the Standing Senate Committee on Human Rights. She works to engage communities in protecting human rights, celebrating Canada’s diversity, and promoting progress. Senator Jaffer spoke about her experiences working with Filipinos and highlighted the importance of family values, generosity and hospitality especially among Filipino families. She stated that Filipinos in Canada are well known for their Christian beliefs, values and for sharing their home. She confessed that she is proud to be associated with the Filipino community and is pleased to know about ANCOP Canada’s initiatives to help the poor in the Philippines and other parts of the world. Senator Jaffer ended her remarks with a heartwarming statement: “I salute you (ANCOP supporters) for the work that you do. And before you sleep tonight, I want you to think about the child who sleeps well through the night because of the help and support you provide to him/her through ANCOP.” Philippine Consul General in Ottawa Eric Tamayo thanked everyone in the hall for their presence, and for their effort and support in helping the poor of the Philippines. He was pleased to know that there is much support from Canada to help the poor. He encouraged CFC ANCOP to contact him if they need his help on anything. ANCOP International Canada Marketing Director, Gabby Consulta gave the audience a bird’s eye view of the purpose, goal and vision and mission of ANCOP. A situationer on the life of the poor was presented in a number of videos that showed the life and plight of the children and families living in poverty in the Philippines. Consulta also showed how ANCOP has grown and developed over the years, supporting poor families and children in the Philippines, India, and the African countries of Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya. “To date, more children and families are being lifted out of poverty because of the generous support of Canadians,” Gabby said. He urged everyone present to do what other Canadians have done and continue to do so—to sponsor a child and join the ANCOP Walk in Ottawa on August 22, 2015. The program ended with an insightful testimony from TJ David who spoke about his mission and passion to reach out to the poor through ANCOP. “It is very rewarding to experience the life of a poor family who has none and still be able to smile despite the challenges of every day,” David shared. (Mariel Velasco, CFC ANCOP Ottawa)
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July 20 - August 2, 2015 Vol. 19 No. 15
Tarlac at Twenty-five
JUNE 6, 2015 was a very important date for Couples for Christ Tarlac. – it was the community’s 25th anniversary. All roads led to the Camiling Sports Complex in Camiling, Tarlac as members from all parts of Tarlac began the day with a motorcade Efren Inocencio, Tarlac West Sector Chapter Head, led the morning worship. Gilbert Alvare z, Tarlac AGT member a n d Se c t o r He a d o f Ta r l a c West Sector, welcomed all the participants and guests which included International Council members Joe and Mila Yamamoto, George and Cynthia Campos and Arnel and Bing Santos. Also present were Regional Heads Romy and Edit Alfaro (Central Luzon), Tony
and Zeny Gimenez (Western Visayas but formerly Area Head of Tarlac), Ding Aguinaldo (Calabarzon) and Tarlac Provincial Area Head Omy Santos and his wife Fe. After inspirational messages by Joe Yamamoto, George Campos and Arnel Santos, a sumptuous lunch was served at noon followed by Holy Mass celebrated by His Excellency Bishop Florentino Cinense of the Diocese of Tarlac, together with Msgr. Melvin Castro, parish priest of Tarlac Cathedral. After the Mass, Bishop Cine nse praye d ove r t he n e w CFC Tarlac leaders. Afterwards, the entire province presented plaques of appreciation to seven couples from Camiling and 11
couples from Tarlac City— couples who planted the seed of Couples for Christ in the province of Tarlac. By mid-afternoon, the daylong event featured various Philippine festivals—Tarlac Central Sector with the Maskara Festival; Tarlac North Sector with the Sinulog Festival; Tarlac South Sector with the Panagbenga Festival; and the host, Tarlac West Sector, the Ati-Atihan Festival. Gerone Baladhay of CFC – Singles for Christ of Tarlac South Sector led the Praisefest. Everyone agreed that even after 25 years, ever yone was still burning with zeal for the mission and looking ahead to a joyful journey towards the next 25 years and beyond. (Mac Bustos)
CFC MM North B Turns 30! WITH the theme “One in Christ”, more than 700 members of CFC Metro Manila North B gathered at the Bahay ng Alumni, UP Diliman, for a Dinner-Dance-Fellowship to celebrate their 30th anniversary in April of this year. The sector’s 30th anniversary was a grand reunion of sorts, with the presence of brothers and sisters from the Foundation for Family and Life (FFL) and Gawad Kalinga (GK). It was an evening of sharing meals, renewing friendship, and journeying down memory lane. There were games and dancing non-stop.. For a most fitting closing to a night of remembrances, brothers and sisters swayed and held hands to the tune of ‘You've Got a Friend.' The night ended with members feeling rejuvenated in body and spirit, all looking forward to the 'Family Day', the second phase of CFC NB @ 30. A week later, on April 19, 2015, the members trooped with their families as early as 7:00 A.M. to the Ateneo High School covered court for the NB @ 30 ‘One In Christ’ Family Day. The Parade
Campos congratulated North B for being a gift to the community because of their generous sharing of the Word to all and for producing leaders for local and foreign assignments. Campos likewise facilitated the turnover of the mantle of North B Sector leadership from Balarbar to Fortune Ilaya. Balarbar, who served CFC North B for a productive 7 years and 2 months, said that he was able to serve only because the “Lord stood by me.” Balarbar and wife Cathy expressed sadness that they were leaving the sector for another mission assignment, but were joyful that North B will be in the good hands of the Ilaya couple, Fortune and Ethel. “We look forward to serving God by spreading the beauty of the Church to families and the poor in cooperation with the Catholic Church,” the Ilayas said. By late morning, activities started simultaneously, starting with a Praise Dance presentation by the Family Ministries. Several booths promoted handmade artworks by the Handmaids of the Lord. There was also a showcase of the history, accomplishments, activities and advocacy of the
of Colors preceded the Holy Mass which was celebrated by His Excellency Bishop Teodoro Bacani. Bishop Bacani affirmed that NB @ 30 is like a cluster of pearls—kasing ganda ng Perlas—the 30th anniversary being the Pearl Anniversary. The good Bishop, however issued a caveat: “Ang ating pagkakaisa ay kalooban ng Diyos ngunit hindi pa ito ganap at lubos. (Unity is God’s will for us but this is not yet fulfilled nor complete.) And God’s will and His way of peace will be ours only if we as members of the community will do the following: 1. Repent, 2. Read the Word, 3. Pray together, 4. Attend prayer meetings and gatherings.” Ernie Balarbar, outgoing Sector Head, welcomed the attendees and called on CFC International Council member George Campos to give his inspirational message.
CFC and its family ministries. Sports “Fun” Competitions came next—Volleyball for women, Father & Son basketball, and the Father & Son Shootout. The Creative “Fun” Competitions turned out to be a real showdown in dance and song via the Family Dance and Family Duet. Parlor games such as “Maria Went to Town”, Tug-of-War, Three-legged Race, Bottle Straw Relay, Family Cup Relay, also elicited laughter from players and spectators alike. Special entertainment numbers in dance and song added more spice and flavor to the hot afternoon. Everyone was exhausted from the day’s activities but refreshed and looking forward to more joyful celebrations for the welfare of all family members and for the greater glory of God. (Grace RinozaPlazo/E. J. Bautista)
OVERDRIVE: The breakthrough in our crossroads
“JESUS is the same, yesterday, today and forever.” This verse from Hebrews 13:8 was the anchor verse of the Jesus and Me or simply JAM Night—a praise concert of the CFC Youth for Christ Iloilo held last July 17 at the Leganes Gym, Iloilo. The concert gathered more than 700 youth hungry to praise and worship God in the spirit of the theme “Overdrive: the breakthrough in our crossroads”. Consecrating the event to Jesus through Mary, CFC YFC Iloilo officially opened the evening with the Holy Rosary, followed by a throwback video of YFC activities. Fifty percent of this gateway evangelization campaign were non-YFCs, hence, one feature of the night was the teaching of songs, with emphasis on the essence of the praise and worship. Sessions followed immediately, with Renz Christian Narida, sector youth head, as the first speaker. “Life is the greatest journey one will ever be embarking on,” he began. “It is a journey rich in experiences and learnings.” The second speaker, Clyle Lyde E. Balansag, High school-based Program Head, stressed, “Along the road of our journey, we face challenges and struggles that could hinder us. There are many crossroads and stops along the way. What must we do?” The third speaker, Sheena Mae Planto, Cluster Youth Head, challenged, “Which path will you take—to follow God’s will or your will?” Three
other YFC members gave personal testimonies on their respective journeys, particularly on their attachment to material things, brokenness and uncertainties, and how they overcame these struggles. The session concluded with the community dancing to the rhythm of the Kids for Christ song, Adventure of a Lifetime performed by the South Band. The praisefest was led by Sherwin Dave Judicpa, YFC fulltime pastoral worker. In his exhortation, Judicpa encouraged the youth to “Discover your purpose and why God wanted you to go on this journey with Him.” Sherwin presented the former leaders of the province to the crowd, who were joined by Singles for Christ members who transitioned from YFC and the couple coordinators, each of them holding a lit candle. Sherwin them thus: “The God of these leaders is indeed a great God, and the God that they have is the same God we have today, and He is still great. God is still great in this generation!” He added, “There is no turning back. God is challenging us to continue the journey no matter what.” The evening moved to dancing as the concert made way for a rave party. There were secular songs, balloons and dynamic production numbers which led the young crowd to an awesome experience of what YFC calls clean, holy fun. (John Christian Lacao)
ANCOP NEWS
Thirteen missionaries from the Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS) came to the Philippines for an immersion in two ANCOP Communities--ANCOP AVANAI in Quezon City and ANCOP Bani in Bataan. The immersion program is the first endeavor following the partnership between FOCUS and ANCOP. According to their team leader, Taber Carlson, a full time missionary for FOCUS, the experience was one of a kind, and he would encourage other FOCUS missionaries to come to the Philippines to experience the same. The missionaries stayed for a week in each community, helping build houses in Quezon City and doing medical mission work in Bataan.
Faith, Freedom, Fun and Fellowship in Daklak Province
THE CFC Youth for Christ conducted a youth camp last June 5 to 7, 2015 at the pari s h o f C h a u S o n , B a n Me Thuot City, Dak Lak Province, Vietnam for the Catechism students, ages 13 – 20, of the Chau Son Parish. There were 60 participants of the camp and 36 of them—25 girls and 11 boys, all of them Vietnamese —committed themselves to become members of the CFC Youth for Christ. The camp was conducted after a year of dedicated visits by their Area Head Odilon and Rowena Barbosa, assisted by their counterpart Joachim. It all started when Odie invited a small group of young people who wanted to learn English through songs. Equipped with his talent, and much trust in God, Odie and Joachim
patiently visited the area every month, conducting guitar classes and at the same time the monthly CFC gathering. The lessons, and gatherings, initially started at Thanh Tam Parish (Cathedral) of Ban Me Thuot, then in Chau Son Parish, and in another parish in the far district of the Diocese at the Parish of Quang Da. When the group of youth in the parishes of Thanh Tam (Cathedral) and Chau Son were ready for the camp, CFC Saigon organized a team led by Rick and Winella Montera, with the help of Joachim. The team was composed of YFC members Emily Rosales, Angela Linh Ubaldo, Juan Nathanielz, Tran Anaya and Yael Verrano; SFC member Diane Belandres, and the music ministry composed of Philip and Jaja Malabanan,
Josephine and Marris Bravo. Anthony Hung and John Baptist Tuat translated the manuals and talks in preparation for the camp. Yo u t h f o r C h r i s t ' s 4 F ' s ( Fa i t h , Fr e e d o m , Fu n a n d Fellowship) were the team’s guiding principles in conducti n g t h e c a m p. T h o u g h t h e team was a mixture of new and old members, the camp flowed with ease despite the challenges of time, culture and of course language. Even though most of the team members were unable to speak the native language, they were still able to express themselves, were understood and able to understand the activities that were happening. The seed has been planted in the hearts of these young people; the great challenge ahead is how to nurture that seed.
The News Supplement of Couples for Christ
George B. Campos IC Oversight
Zenaida A. Gimenez Editor-in-Chief
Deomar P. Oliveria Layout Artist
The second batch of houses at the ANCOP Taysan Community in Legaspi City, Albay were turned over to the home partner families last July 18, 2015. The community was made possible through the partnership between CROSS Catholic and ANCOP, in collaboration with the Diocese of Legaspi and the Local Government.
Alma M. Alvarez Associate Editor
Evangeline C. Mecedilla Circulation Staff
The Ugnayan News Supplement is published by the Couples for Christ Global Mission Foundation, Inc., with editorial offices at 156 20th Avenue, 1109 Cubao, Quezon City. Editorial trunk line: (+63 2) 709-4868 local 23 Direct line : (+63 2) 709-4856 www.couplesforchristglobal.org cfcglobalcommunications@gmail.com
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@CFChrist
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July 20 - August 2, 2015 Vol. 19 No. 15
WE WILL LOVE MORE!
Highlights of the 2015 CFC Canada National Conference and KFC Kids Village
IT WAS a weekend of teaching, sharing, creative activity, worship and fellowship as brethren attended the 2015 CFC Canada National Conference and KFC Kids Village at the RBC Convention Center in Winnipeg, Manitoba. The conference truly lived out the 2015 CFC theme, “Love More,” as more than 800 delegates from all over Canada reaffirmed their love for God, their respective spouses and brothers and sisters in the community. Indeed, it was one of the most enjoyable conferences for CFC Canada. The celebration started as early as Thursday, July 9, with the ANCOP Canada Summit held at the North Centennial Community Centre in Winnipeg. The day began with a Holy Mass officiated by Fr. Reneiro Sarce, Pastor of St. Edward’s Parish. ANCOP Canada President Ricky Cuenca then welcomed the delegates and heralded the completion of Pope Francis’ ANCOP Village in Tacloban. The 400 homes were the first-ever built in partnership with the Municipality of Tacloban and SM Cares Foundation. Bong Garrucho of CFC Vancouver moderated the series of lectures and workshops about embracing CFC’s Work with the Poor program. Joe Yamamoto, CFC ANCOP International Director provided the closing remarks to end the day-long summit. CFC brethren from across Canada trooped to the RBC Convention Center on Friday for the opening of the “Love More” conference. The center was a flurry of activities as both the CFC Conference and KFC Kids Village were held simultaneously in the same venue. The conference started with the recitation of the Rosary, followed by a solemn Mass officiated by Fr. Yoli Gamallo, Parish Priest of St. John Cantius, and Spiritual Adviser of CFC Winnipeg. Fr. Yoli was joined by other priests from various areas
of Canada in the concelebrated Mass. Members of SFC and CFC Youth then opened the weekend with a lively number, followed by the opening of the Kids Village by Jojo Facun, KFC Canada’s Core Team Head from Vancouver. Subsequently, Greg Parillas, CFC Canada National Director, along with Arnel Simbulan, CFC Canada Central Region Coordinator, and Ador Cabrera, CFC Manitoba Area Director, officially opened the 2015 CFC National Conference. Nic Escalona, KFC International Coordinator, began the conference by providing a gist of the talks while explaining the relevance of the 2015 theme “Love More”, which was taken from John 21:15-17. The Saturday sessions started with the Rosary and Mass, with no less than the Most Reverend Archbishop Albert LeGatt of the Archdiocese of Saint Boniface in Winnipeg presiding. Archbishop LeGatt welcomed all the delegates and challenged everyone to truly experience God’s love in every moment in order to extend that love to others. Jun Clarito, CFC Canada Eastern Region Coordinator, gave the first session titled “It is Too Little.” The next talk, “Come Have Breakfast” was delivered by Joe Yamamoto, CFC International Mission Head for the Americas. Talk 3, “Do You Love Me More Than These,” was delivered by ANCOP Social Development Program Head, Arnel Santos. The talks were punctuated by powerful and inspiring “Love More” testimonies from brothers and sisters across Canada, which sent messages for CFC to pray more, study Him more, serve Him more and hunger more for the sacraments. The sessions likewise emphasized that the true measure of loving God is when one fully commits to obey Him and feed His sheep. In the evening, the delegates dressed up in formal attire for a Hollywood-inspired
red carpet event, complete with “paparazzis” clicking away on their cameras similar to the Grammy Awards night. It was followed by dinner and dancing, plus the honoring of members of the clergy in a simple yet heart-warming Clergy Appreciation ceremony. The celebration continued the following day, Sunday, with a Mass celebrated by Fr. Vic Tunghol, now a retired priest. Fr. Vic was the first Spiritual Adviser of CFC in Winnipeg and was instrumental in the introduction and growth of CFC in the area. The final talk, “Love More,” delivered by Eric Delos Reyes, CFC Canada Country Coordinator, was highlighted by a testimony from Larry Vickar, a businessman based in Winnipeg and a staunch supporter of ANCOP. Vickar with his wife Tova, who are both Jews, did not allow their beliefs to hinder them from helping the poor. Larry shared his recent visit to the Philippines where he saw for himself the growth of the village he supported and officially awarded the completed units to the deserving home partners. He surprised everyone by announcing a new check donation of $25,000.00 on top of what he has already given. He vowed to continue supporting and promoting ANCOP to other people, including members of the Rotary Club he belongs to. To end, Bong Salmon of Winnipeg led everyone in a rousing praisefest. Several citations and prizes were also announced and given out. CFC Canada’s conference hosts for 2016 will be Ottawa for the Eastern Region and Calgary for the Western Region. It was indeed a remarkable weekend, with fond memories of friendships rekindled and a firm resolve to love one another more, and love God even greater. (Rico Tingin)
Gift of Life Conference Held in Calgary
CBCP Monitor
Encountering Love in Leyte OVER a thousand members of CFC from Leyte and Southern Leyte gathered for the spirit-filled “Love More” Retreat last July 12, 2015 at the VSU Convention Hall, Baybay City, Leyte. The conference centered on CFC’s 2015 theme “Love More”, taken from John 21:15-17. Davis Abuel, CFC Leyte SOLD Provincial Coordinator, led the opening worship. A stage play, which is an adaptation from the movie “The Encounter”, introduced the sessions, with the characters portrayed by some members of CFC Metro Manila South B. The story highlighted problems that are usually encountered by CFC members and leaders, until they are eventually resolved because of their strong faith, trust and love for God. Arnel Sacris, Cebu Provincial Area Director, delivered the first talk (It is too Little) with great simplicity and humor but the message was very clear—Jesus should be in every service, for without Jesus, one’s efforts will prove to be too little. In her testimony, Neneng Sacris recounted that the service she and her husband Arnel rendered for over twenty years is still too little. As couple, they continue to accept whatever new assignment is given to them as they are called to serve the community passionately. The second talk titled “Come Have Breakfast” was delivered by International Council member Lito Tayag, with King Lariosa, a member of Area G, as his sharer. Lariosa shared his painful childhood experience, causing him to have so much hatred towards
his father. But God healed him as he learned to forgive his father. His story was a call to action for all members of CFC: to continue the mission of evangelizing more couples as it may help prevent, if not totally eradicate, the cases of child abuse. The afternoon session started with a mass with Rev. Fr. Brian Flandez of Holy Spirit Parish as celebrant. Before the final blessing, Jude Abenoja, Leyte Provincial Area Director, and CFC Southern Leyte Provincial Area Head, expressed his thanks to Rev. Fr. Brian Flandez, as well as the speakers and music ministry from Metro Manila South B, headed by Raymond Bucu, CFC Leyte Provincial Area Head, who selflessly gave their time to be part of the Love More Weekend. The third talk titled “Do You Love Me More Than These” was delivered by Ramuel Garcia, UAE National Council Director. He openly shared his unfailing love for his wife whom he fondly calls “giliw”. His wife Beth, a nurse by profession, shared the hurdles both she and Ramuel experienced as CFC leaders in UAE. T h e l a s t t a l k ( L ove Mo re ) w a s delivered by Middle East Regional Coordinator,UAE Country Coordinator and Central Luzon Regional Head Romy Alfaro. The story shared by Victor and Wilma Laurel, KFC Leyte Central Couple Coordinator, of the deep love that abides in their family, filled the venue with laughter and tears. As a fitting ending to a great conference, the 1,400 delegates all came together for a vibrant praisefest. (Maricel Ngo)
New Assignments Announced The CFC International Council recently announced the following appointments: CFC Chairman Jose Tale is the Evangelization and Missions Office Head, with the other members of the IC holding the following positions: International Missions – Jose Tale Philippine Missions – Joe Yamamoto Metro Manila Missions – Manny Garcia Church Relations Office – Rouquel Ponte Pastoral Formation Office – Rouquel Ponte Jimmy Ilagan is the new Family Ministries Director, while Joe Yamamoto is the Mission to the Poor (ANCOP) Director. CFC Global Mission Support is headed by George Campos, with Eric Ylagan as the GMC Administrator and Arnel Santos as Legal Counsel. Lito Tayag oversees the Global Mission Center Committee on Audit, while Bong Arjonillo heads the Committee on
Compensation. The Committee on Risk and Compliance is handled by George Campos. The following are the Continent Overseers: Joe Yamamoto - the Americas Rouquel Ponte – Europe Shok Ariola – Africa George Campos - West Asia (the Middle East, Indian Subcontinent, and Central Asia), Bong Arjonillo - East Asia (Southeast Asia, North Asia, and Greater Mekong Area), Lito Tayag - Oceania (Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Polynesia, Miconesia and Melanesia). The entire CFC community is encouraged to continue to pray for these leaders that the Lord may continue to equip each one to be effective ministers and evangelizers of CFC.
CFC Executive Director Visits Kenya
THE COUPLES for Christ Canada Gift of Life Ministry, in partnership with the Life and Family Resource Centre of Diocese of Calgary, held a conference on Theology of the Body in 3D (Desire, Design & Destiny) at St. Bonaventure Parish. The church was full to capacity with an estimated 550 participants, majority of them young couples and some non-CFC. The Gift of Life Ministry headed by Vuoleen and Eden Ben and supervised by Lanny and Nancy Zacarias, were prime movers of the event, from ticket sales, to preparation and execution of the event. The Area Governance Team and some Chapter leaders were also present to extend a hand. The presence and support of the Bishop of Calgary, His Excellency Bishop Frederick Henry was a blessing. As expected, main speaker Christopher West’s expertise on the Theology of the Body captured the audience and made them excited to know more. Jason Clarke, who set the mood with his short prayer and rendition of the song Sanctuary, likewise added to the spirit of the conference. West’s topic in talk 1, entitled Desire, was about man’s burning desire for the true, the good, and the beautiful. People are born with an expectation to find satisfaction in life. That burning, yearning desire is always part of each individual. The Greek called this feeling, Eros. According to West, Eros should not be limited to romantic love or sexual desire but rather a yearning for Infinite Love and union; a yearning for something beyond. “God’s mercy is available to us,” West added. “Like the saints who are mystics, we can take this opportunity to ask God for His mercy to guide and redirect our hunger… our yearning to the stars… to the infinite.” “The goal in all of nature is life. Every living thing in creation is designed to reproduce,” West emphasized in Talk 2 on Design. He added that every plant, every tree, every
blade of grass tells the story of the seed that found purchase in fertile soil. “Indeed nature’s reproductive process is happening all around us all the time. If God is speaking to us through the natural world then it is clear that one of his favorite subjects is mating and fertility, coupling, and life-giving-ness,” he explained. He went on to stress that one has to be blind not to recognize this unending song of love and life everywhere. West went on, “God created us as sexual beings (male and female) to tell the story of His own life giving love in the world, and to invite us to participate in that life giving love eternally. This is the code written into the very design of our bodies, our deepest desires, and into the whole universe.” Talk 3, which talked about Destiny had West stating the following fact from the Catechism of the Catholic Church: “Heaven is the ultimate end and fulfillment of the deepest human longings, the state of supreme definitive happiness.” (CCC 1024) He quoted Pope Paul VI: “Eternal life is not an unending succession of days on the calendar, but something more like the supreme moment of satisfaction in which totality embraces us and we embrace totality. It is like plunging into the ocean of infinite love… a plunging ever anew into the vastness of being, in which we are simply overwhelmed with joy, we must think along these lines if we want to understand what it is that our faith leads us to expect.” (Pope Paul VI, 12) Dax Magsisi, National Gift of Life coordinator, exhorted the participants in his address: “Man is surrounded by the culture of death but there is no reason for us to fear. Fear can keep you a prisoner, but hope can set you free. God has shown us the way… Theology of the Body is our best antidote. Together let us keep that hope in us that eventually we will awaken that desire, embrace our design and eventually reach our destiny.” (Angie Magsisi)
GEORGE Campos with wife Cynthia visited CFC-Kenya last May 18-26. Their presence made CFC in Kenya happy and excited as the Camposes graced the different activities lined up. The Campos couple was joined by Team Kenya in paying courtesy visits to the Couples for Christ Chaplain, Fr. Peter Kamomoe as well as His Lordship, Bishop David Kamau (Nairobi) and Bishop Philip Anyolo (Homabay). Team Kenya is composed of Kenya-based Goi and Charm Villegas together with Ghamay Pepito, fulltime pastoral waorker in charge of the ministries. They were also joined by the Claritos, Kenya Country Coordinators from Canada. After the visit, the team trooped to Songa Mbele na Masomo (Moving Ahead in Education), an informal education centre that caters to the needs of poor children who are physically and intellectually disabled. This is one of the prospective areas for the ANCOP Child Sponsorship Program. On the other hand, the well-attended 2015 Kenya Love More Conference
was made special by the the presence of George Campos who gave Talks 1 and 4, followed the inspiring testimony of Cynthia. It was Kenya’s first conference with the presence of a member of the International Council which they have been looking forward to for many years. Overwhelmed by the success of the conference, the Fr. Peter Kamamoe asked Team Kenya to offer a thanksgiving Mass at the Basilica where he asked The Camposes to briefly say something about what CFC is. On the last day of the couple's stay in Kenya, the Area Governance Team had a household meeting at the CFC Mission House where Abraham Munene, Area Director of CFC Nairobi presented a roasted goat to the Camposes as a sign of respect of a leader to another leader. The visit of the Camposes was well received by CFC Kenya and has brought renewed spirit to the community. And as they look forward to another visit, CFC Kenya says, “Asanteni Sana!” (Thank You!) (Malou Clarito)