Ugnayan
THE NEWS SUPPLEMENT OF COUPLES FOR CHRIST CBCP Monitor. Vol. 21 No. 21
October 16 - October 29, 2017 C1
GLOBAL DAY OF SERVICE: MORE OF JESUS, LESS OF ME By Andrelene Veloso
“To share love and service to the poor.”
This was the focus of the CFC Kids for Christ 8th Global Day of Service held in the Philippines and other countries from September 30 to October 1. The KFC Global Day of Service or GDS is an annual event of the CFC Kids for Christ ministry under its World Changers Program. GDS calls on all KFC members, their families and friends, the whole CFC community and even non-community partners do random acts of love and service to others especially to the poor and those in need. Guided by the theme “We Do Everything In Love”, KFCs and their families all over the world performed deeds representing the seven corporal works of mercy, namely: feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, clothe the naked, shelter the homeless, visit those in prison, comfort the sick and bury the dead. Among the areas which observed the Global Day of Service were Metro Manila, Laguna, Misamis Oriental, Bukidnon, Batangas, Ilocos Norte, Cavite, Iloilo, Negros Occidental, Cebu, Naga City, Zamboanga City, Baler, Baguio, Camarines Norte, Bohol, Antique, Guimaras, and Capiz. Chicago and Canada were among the countries who observed the GDS in the International Missions. Prior to the service, the participants listened to a pep talk where they were reminded of the life of Jesus, His sacrifices and the good things He did when He was still on earth. The ROCK Facilitators (YFCs serving in KFC) and the kids were reminded that the GDS basically means to think less of themselves and more of others. This means being selfless and more loving like Jesus—to love like Jesus by serving the people around them beginning with their parents, siblings, friends, teachers and classmates and people who are in need.
All over the world, God's people are living in His love through ramdom acts of kindness! (Photos courtesy of Facebook uploads of CFC families from the Philippines.)
CFC & CBCP ECMI: Empowering, Protecting and Caring for Migrant Families
HUMAN migration does not show any signs of ceasing or at least slowing down. Daily, thousands of individuals around the world are going through migration, for various reasons. This was the evident trend noted during the Central and Northwestern Luzon leg of the CFC Migrants Program Convention. Carrying the theme Kaisa
ng Simbahan sa Apostolado Migrante, the confab was held last September 30, 2017 at the Greenfields Paradise Resort in Malasiqui, Pangasinan. A major part of the convention discussed the many complex challenges of migration, especially in the realm of spiritual, pastoral and social care. In his opening remarks, Jess
Ferrer, Head of the CFC Migrants Program, stated that “We in the CFC Migrants Program realize that stakeholders should get together to discuss and share how best to approach these challenges. Educating, equipping, and caring for migrants has to be a concerted effort.” The CFC Migrants Program offers migrants MIGRANTS, C3
YFC Does the Kawayanihan OUT OF 1,200 Camp Kawayan volunteers who went to San Mateo, Rizal last September 23, 2017 to do their bit for the preservation of the environment, 20 were members of CFC Youth for Christ Metro Manila. The YFC volunteers represented the ministry through their G-Project Advocacy. They joined the other Camp Kawayan advocates from all over Metro Manila, Central Luzon, and South Luzon in planting bamboo along the riverbanks of San Mateo. The event was the Kawayanihan 2017 Project organized by ALC Foundation in celebration of World Bamboo Day. Francis Xavier Buñag, a CFCYouth for Christ fulltime pastoral worker assigned in Metro Manila, as well as the Program Head for G-Project, spearheaded the involvement of YFC in the Kawayanihan Project. The
G-Project is an advocacy of Youth for Christ that aims to rally today’s generation to work for a greener nation. Over the years, the bamboo planting trail dubbed as “Camp Kawayan” has raised awareness on the benefits and potentials of bamboo, encouraging community bamboo planting and growing as a way of climate change mitigation and adaptation. Others participants were from high schools and uni-
CFC Project ReForm Trains CFC, Non-CFC Volunteers
versities of Metro Manila, Landbank of the Philippines, Indra Philippines, Conduent Philippines, MiraMed Philippines and ALCH Employees. “We need to be pro-active in doing our part in taking care of our environment. Now is the time to take action,” Buñag challenged the young generation of CFC to continue to answer the call of taking care of Mother Earth. (Martin Angeles)
CFC Southern Luzon, together with other volunteers training to be amazing couselors
MORE THAN 50 counselors and aspirants attended the “How to Be an Amazing Counselor for Drug Rehab” in Betania Retreat House, Tagaytay City last September 22-24, 2017. Jojo Apolo, CFC Project Reform Trainer and Chapter Head of CFC Jakarta, conducted the three-day seminar. Attendees were from Couples for Christ, CBCP Episcopal Commission on Prison Pastoral Care and other youth volunteers. Mon De Leon, CFC Social Development Head, reminded everyone in his opening remarks that they were there because they were called by the Church to help others. “This is the fertile ground where God called us to be because He wants us to become His hands,” he emphasized. Apolo taught the participants about Lead Presentation System and some exercises that will allow counselors to connect with patients in drug rehabilitation centers. Arnel Santos, International Council member, reiterated the role of CFC Project ReForm and all its programs and activities. He believes that all the learnings acquired over the three days will truly be effective when brought to the ground. He shared, “My wife and I will remain volunteers of the program because aside from the mission of being part of the Inter-
national Council, CFC Project ReForm is also our mission.” The seminar ended with more exercises and techniques led by Apolo that will be helpful for both counselors and patients. It was followed by a practicum held at Tagaytay City Jail and the Carmona City Jail where participants, divided into two groups, applied the things they learned in the threeday training and seminar. Recognizing ReForm heroes The commitment to give their lives in serving drug surrenderers and those in rehabilitation centers paid off for Noel Deang ang Jo Dilag of Project ReForm. The two volunteers were recognized by the Department of Health during the Volunteers Recognition Day held in Joshua Hall, DOH-Treatment and Rehabilitation Center, Bicutan last October 4, 2017. The two volunteers were recognized for their unwavering spiritual support and enhancement to help recovering drug dependents achieve successful recovery. Deang and Dilag are both active CFC members who continue to do the good works of the Lord through the activities of Project ReForm. Deang, while still in CFC Singles for Christ, actively served in Camp Bagong Diwa. (Andrelene Veloso)
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October 16 - October 29, 2017 Vol. 21 No. 21
CFC-CAPIZ: 30 years of Standing Firm in the Faith
LAST OCTOBER 8, 2017, Couples for Christ Capiz together with the different Family Ministries gathered to celebrate 30 years of God’s faithfulness and love at the San Lorenzo Ruiz Auditorium, CPC Arnaldo Blvd., Roxas City. The provincial theme for this anniversary was “Tatlo ka Dekada nga Paghiliusa kaupod kay Hesukristo” (Three decades of faithfulness with Jesus Christ). The celebration started with a motorcade from the Provincial Park going to the main venue, followed by morning worship. The event also served as a grand
reunion for the different chapters and clusters, since former CFC members came along to join. Welcoming everyone to the occasion was Roy Donato, CFC Capiz Provincial Area Director, followed by heartwarming anniversary messages from Chito Dela Cruz (CFC Capiz Provincial Area Head), Steve Maningat (Visayas Regional Coordinator) and CFC Chairman Melo Villaroman Jr. The CFC International Council, Board of Elders and CFC Family Ministries Head, Lawrence Quintero, all conveyed their anniversary greetings.
Fred and Judy Bigcas from Panay Chapter were given a plaque of recognition for their 30 years of active and faithful service to the Lord. The event concluded with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist presided by the Most Rev. Jose F. Advincula Jr. D.D., Archbishop of Capiz, together with Rev. F. Eugene Argoncillo, CFC Spiritual Director and Rev. Fr. Virgilio Ciudadano Jr., Vice-Chancellor of the Archdioceses. Msgr. Joe expressed his gratitude to the CFC community for upholding the sanctity of marriage and family life despite the secular challenges of the world. He also reminded the lay faithful to be rooted on God’s love, follow the teachings of the Church and imitate the virtues of Mother Mary to continue standing firm in the faith. The event was made even more colorful and joyful through the different festivalthemed presentations of various CFC chapters and family ministries. (Divine dela Cruz)
NEG OCC EMBRACES YOUNG CFC PROGRAM IN OUR modern society, where the family is under attack by evil forces and threatened by the distorted viewpoints of people about marriage, it is important that we understand and believe in the plan of God for the family. As young couples and new members of Couples for Christ (CFC), we felt we are being challenged and tested by secular or worldly values and orientations. It seems that as CFC members armed with CFC’s vision of renewing the face of the earth, we have a big task ahead of us. When we heard about the Young Couples Program of CFC, our household was motivated to introduce it to our province, Negros Occidental. We sought the approval and support of the Area Governance Team and our CFC Negros leaders to introduce the program here. On July 28, 2017, we finally launched the CFC Young Couples Program in Negros Occidental at the St. John Mary Vianney Hall, San Sebastian Cathedral, Bacolod City. A number of engaged couples, newly-weds and couples who have been married for 15 years or less attended the launching. The Provincial Area Director of Cebu, Arnel Sacris and his wife Neneng, gave the talk on "The Family as God's Masterpiece" which discussed the different roles of husbands and wives. On August 26, 2017, Rommel Ancheta, Ablaze
Communications President, and his wife Layle as sharer, conducted the second session of the CFC Young Couples Program titled, “Creating Your Own Family Culture.” After the talk, each coupleparticipant, through a one-to-one session, identified the similarities and differences of the upbringing years of each of their families, and agreed on what culture their own family would have. The program is indeed helpful for young couples who are just starting to build their own families. The wedding, pregnancy stage and raising a child are beautiful, overwhelming and challenging experiences which a young couple faces. The support from the other members of the family and members of the Young Couples program who can relate to these situations is critical. The Young Couples of Negros Occidental are looking forward to the succeeding sessions on how to handle finances, how to deal with in-laws and more topics that will be useful to strengthen and build their families. Inspired by the program, CFC Negros Occidental opened a Christian Life Program for Young Couples on September 23, 2017 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish, Bacolod City. We hope that this CLP will inspire more young couples to take part in bringing families to Christ and renewing the face of the earth. (Aim Marie Funcion)
CBCP Monitor
CFC – Bataan as Heroes of Faith DURING the celebration of the 28th anniversary of Couples for Christ Bataan, held recently at the Bataan People’s Center in Balanga, the CFC community was challenged to become “Heroes of Faith” just like the patron saints of each vicariate of the province: St. Peter of Verona, St. Dominic de Guzman, Our Lady of the Pillar and St. Michael Archangel. Senen Reyes, CFC Bataan Provincial Area Head, reminded everyone that these saints are not really distant. He emphasized that these early Christian missionaries and martyrs gave their whole self to God and to His mission, and by the example of their lives and faith, showed us the qualities of a true hero. Performances from different family ministries and clusters gave color to the event. Booths
gave away freebies like rosaries, fliers and other stuff. Tony Gimenez was introduced as the new CFC Central Luzon Region Head. In his message, he pointed out that Bataan is known as a place of bravery and that the province is where the heart of the Filipino is because so many fought and died there during the war for love of country and its people. A Eucharistic celebration concluded the occasion, with Fr.
Jefferson Paule reiterating in his homily the importance of four things: to be always grateful; to quit complaining; to never compare and to be always faithful to God. He added that pursuant to the CFC theme this year, the community should be firm, strong, courageous, faithful and their acts should always be done with love because it is through these qualities that people see God in us. (Joe Mel Paras)
Sharing Jesus In the Most Unusual Places TO SHARE Christ and His gospel to the people undergoing dialysis—this is the advocacy of Art and Ellen Gabriel, chapter head of CFC Batangas and Verde Island. Art and Ellen are now conducting a Christian Life Program (CLP) for patients undergoing dialysis in St. Camillus de Lellis Hospital, Batangas City. The CLP started last September 11, 2017, with a total of 14 patients and nurses participating in the said program. The CLP is an integrated course intended to lead the program participants into a renewed understanding of God’s call to them as Christian couples or individuals. It runs for a total of 12 separate sessions, usually held once a week. Most sessions consist of three basic ingredients: a teaching, a group discussion, and fellowship. In the Gabriels’ case, the CLP is conducted every Monday. “Ang advocacy naming mag-asawa ay mapalapit ang mga patients sa Panginoon, lalo na doon sa mga hindi pa nakakakilala sa Kanya,” Art shared. Art leads the CLP while his wife Ellen serves as facilitator and prayer warrior, and is also in charge of registration. The capacity of the hospital room is limited and only seven patients at any one time are allowed to undergo
dialysis, which is why only two couples are allowed to serve during the CLP. Their participants, however, are not all Catholics. Despite the pains and difficulties the patients face during the dialysis, Gabriel is glad that they are in the CLP because he knows that they are receiving Jesus. He added that he sits with each and every participant to impart the message that God loves them and that their only response is to get to know and to love Him. Art is grateful to his cluster heads for choosing him and his wife to lead this CLP, and is amazed that it was the hospital that requested for the program itself. At first, the Gabriels said they found it difficult to conduct the CLP because of the lack of facilitators and the limited capacity of the room.
But now, more people are volunteering to assist and help them. “God is indeed very generous,” he said. “Noong una, nahihirapan akong humanap ng mga facilitators. Ngayon nagkakagulo sila. Though hindi naman pwedeng pagsasabayin. Pero sila’y very willing makapagserve sa ating mga kapatid” he added. The CLP isn’t just a mision for the Gabriels. It has also brought lessons and realizations that allow them to continue serving. Gabriel encourages the CFC community to continue sharing the gospel, wherever or to whoever it may be and to be joyful in serving and sharing Christ, especially to those who are not part of the community. The CLP for dialysis patients will end on November 27. (Andrelene Veloso)
FOR THIS NEW BATCH OF MISSIONARIES, EVERYTHING IS GRACE! THE CFC Annual Training and Immersion Program for the Family Ministries started in July 2017. Brave souls from all over the Philippines answered the call of the Lord to become fulltime pastoral workers (FTPW). The new batch sat through three months of lectures, exams and interviews and underwent com-
munity immersion in some areas of Metro Manila and provinces of Luzon. At the end of the three months, they can now call themselves fulltime pastoral workers, ready and willing to go wherever they are sent. What do they look forward to now that they are fulltime missionaries?
Maria Delica Nova Tablante YFC FTPW, Oriental Mindoro This is the Lord's constant calling to me. His constant message has been that He has called me, personally, to love. That no matter how far we have gone together, to be humble and to obey Him at all times is what can lead me closer to Him and what can help me serve others better. Everything is grace!
Ahyan Talisic SFC FTPW I was a fulltime pastoral worker for 8 years in Kids for Christ. I can still remember how the Lord called me 8 years ago and how I responded to Him by saying yes. It is also the same yes that I have today as I move on to the SFC ministry. Probably it will be a different challenge but it will be for the same reason why I am doing the mission He entrusted to me -I will always say yes to Him. The most significant message of the Lord to me is “I still don’t know everything and I need to train and learn a lot of things again”. What holds me? The promise of the Lord that He will never abandon nor forsake me. I look forward to experience more of His love in the new ministry, Singles for Christ. And I look forward to the Lord using me.
Junel Roxas YFC FTPW, SaranganiGeneral Santos I said yes to the mission because of God's never ending love and grace. In the mission that God entrusted us, He assured each one of us that we will never be alone. I am looking forward to more Jesus experience here in this mission. Rona Go Patenio YFC FTPW, Bohol I didn’t want to believe that I'm fit to be a missionary, but the Lord was so persistent in pursuing me, telling me and proving to me that I don't need to be qualified for Him to call me, but He will qualify me because He called me. I'm looking forward to be stretched all the more for God's glory to prevail in my life, to be in situations wherein loving is the hardest thing but is the only thing we can do, and to reach greater heights and wider peripheries with my game-changer, Jesus.
John Martin Ballon YFC FTPW, Ifugao God is a generous God. He allowed me to experience His generosity through the people who journeyed with me. Now, I am excited to share His generosity through the giving of my time, talent and treasure to my mission area. Gabriel Makabenta YFC FTPW, Southern Leyte I hold on to God’s assurance of providence to my family and everyone I care for. I am right now holding on to the joy because of the grace God gave me to be part of his bigger mission. I look forward to where He will lead me throughout this journey with Him. David Quiambao YFC FTPW, Metro Manila It was God's promise of a life of grace, fruitfulness, adventure and blessedness that enabled me to answer His call, uncertain as things in the future may be, because it is in God that I found my security and certainty. It's all about His Grace. I should not worry and not be too hard on myself whenever I fail to accomplish something, even though I gave my everything, because even though I am not enough and will never be, I know that God will always be more than enough for everything. I am excited and looking forward to all the surprises that He has in store for me.
Ernie Abringue SFC FTPW As a fulltime pastoral worker for years now, my decision to transfer from YFC to SFC was a yes to answer a call within a call. This time the Lord is calling me to serve the single men and women of the community. Throughout the training, God’s constant message for me was: “be humble for I am humble” and “I am near.” The Lord showed me that the mission is really bigger than my own personal wants and selfish desires. I am holding on to the great Love of the Lord for it is what will fuel everything that I will be doing in the mission. I look forward to witnessing many more of God’s sweet surprises.
Zisha Hope Labajo YFC FTPW, Zamboanga Sibugay The grace that allowed me to say yes ten years ago is the same grace that gives me the courage to say yes to the Lord again today. This mission was never mine but His. And all of this is just part of the preparation for me to be the woman that the Lord wants me to become. Julius Marl R. Barbas KFC FTPW, Zamboanga City God is gracious. His grace is the only reason why I said yes to mission. I was proud, but since the training, God has pruned me in ways which hurt me deeply and gravely; yet I believe his loving correction has a purpose so great I can barely understand it. Now, I hold on to His truth— I am a work in progress and what I lack, only His grace can fill. Farrah Regudo YFC FTPW, Quezon Province All throughout my training, the Lord was constantly telling me that I may have flaws and imperfections, but His love conquers them all. The whole training was an invitation of the Lord for me to commune with Him, to have deeper relationship with Him as days go by. Every single day, He would say: “Do not be afraid, I am with you.” I would always hold on to His promise that He will bless me wherever I go. FTPWS, C3
CBCP Monitor
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October 16 - October 29, 2017 Vol. 21 No. 21
REKINDLE THE GIFT 2 Timothy 1:6 THE FIRST part of our community’s theme for next year, “Rekindle the gift,” is taken from Paul’s Second Letter to Timothy: For this reason I remind you to rekindle the gift of God that is within you through the laying of my hands (2 Timothy 1:6). In the original letter in Greek the word used is anazopureo, which is translated literally as “stir up.” Thus the New American Bible translates the phrase as “stir into flame the gift of God.” On Paul’s second missionary journey, he came to Lystra, a city in central Anatolia, now a part of present-day Turkey. There he met Timothy, a young man who had become a Christian and was devoted to serving the Lord. Timothy was born of mixed Jewish and pagan (Greek) parents but his grandmother, Lois, and mother, Eunice, had earlier converted to Christianity. Timothy began to follow Paul after meeting him. He served as Paul’s representative on missions to Thessalonica, Corinth and Philippi. He was in close contact with Paul during the latter’s imprisonment in Ephesus and was also with him at Corinth when Paul wrote his letter to the Romans. He is listed as a coauthor of four of Paul’s genuine letters (see 1 Cor 1:1, Phil 1:1, 1 Thes 1:1, Phlm 1). Paul’s second letter to Timothy is very personal as it acknowledges the plight of Timothy and his church. He
addresses Timothy personally, sympathizes with his difficult job, and encourages him in many touching ways to persevere. Timothy faces day-to-day problems and unpleasantness including serious and pressing problems related to the orderly succession of leaders. Timothy’s community is beset with serious doctrinal problems which threatened the gospel. Some of the community’s leaders left while others seemed to be advocating unacceptable doctrines. The leadership had weakened. Love seemed to have grown cold. In his letter, Paul complains of loneliness and abandonment but he relishes the kindness of fellow Christians. His sense of impending death motivates him to confirm Timothy and to authorize him to appoint successors. He urges Timothy to strengthen the internal character of the church and to solicit and confirm new leaders. Paul wants Timothy to strengthen the faith of the developing church and to rekindle the love that seems to have been lost or has grown weary among the members of the community. His letter allows us to peek into a community in transition, a community in need of change. The “gift of God” mentioned in the letter refers to the special gift of the Spirit conferred on Timothy through the laying of Paul’s hands. It includes the gifts of ruling and teaching which
are necessary for the performance of the many and important duties to which he was called. This gift is depicted here using the image of a fire, which will be extinguished if not stirred up or if fresh fuel is not added to it. Paul is urging Timothy to take care of the sacred fire of the Holy Spirit so that it does not languish in his heart. He is asking him to watch the flame, to keep it burning brightly, to stir up the flame that it may not burn dimly or extinguish altogether. A closer reflection on the words of Paul in his letter to Timothy suggests that Timothy was probably one who tended to be diffident, one who sought to avoid direct confrontation with people, or one who did not want to alienate others with a strong stand on issues. If we were to meet Timothy, we might be impressed by his great warmth and love, but it would be a love that tended to be too accommodating – a love that might accommodate what is wrong and harmful just to avoid hurting the feelings of others. On the other hand, we get the sense that Paul was a man of deep, authentic love who never shied away from confrontation. An example was when he publicly rebuked Peter. Timothy had a shepherd’s tender heart for the sheep but Paul wanted to develop within him the boldness necessary to really lead and protect the flock.
Planting and Sowing Seeds in ANCOP
HOME partners of the CFC ANCOP Tambuli Community received vegetable seeds from Dr. Florante Victor Madrid Balatico, Director of Extension Services of the Cagayan State University. This was in response to an earlier request of the Couples for Christ to CSU President Urdujah Tejada for a livelihood project for the new community. Dr. Balaticeo explained that this is a major component of the “Sapat na Pagkain at Pangkabuhayan sa Bawat Tahanan” program of the state university. The pilot testing done in some areas in Cagayan showed that leafy vegetables like pechay,
sweet potato tops, kangkong (upland) and alugbati leaves were harvestable one month after planting and fruiting vegetables after 2-3 months. The association gladly accepted several packs consisting of pechay, tomatoes, corn, pepper (taban), mustard, etc. The members pledged to take good care of the seeds, and to make the ANCOP community a model community for vegetable farming. Dr. Balatico also introduced the concept of edible landscaping, meaning that instead of ornamental plants, vegetables will be planted on the frontage of the houses. (Arthur Pagador)
FTPWS, C2
Jonee D. Hubilla YFC FTPW, Kalinga God's constant message to me is to remain humble and to empty myself. It is through this emptiness that He will lead me to experience His overflowing grace. There is a bigger mission ahead and one of the most essential tools of a missionary, more than the skills and knowledge, is discipline - in prayer, thoughts and actions. The mission will not be easy, but as long as I continue to hold on to His grace and promise of joy, everything will be worth it. I am excited to where the Lord will bring me in this journey to experience Him even more.
Miko Latayan Macatangay YFC FTPW During the three months of training, I experienced God more than in any other events of my life. I experienced more of His grace, His blessings, His generosity, love, mercy and compassion. He made me realize that being a missionary is to offer my life to others. That is what my life verse (Matthew 10:29) is all about. I am excited for more revelations coming from the Lord and I am looking forward to what is beyond the ‘yes’ I have given to God.
Katrina Llamas YFC FTPW, Metro Manila Throughout the training, the Lord truly broke the walls I strongly built around me. He assured me that in this journey, I have to surrender to Him and trust Him fully for He is in control. Wherever the Lord will send me, my call is not to leave a mark for myself and what I did, but rather to leave a mark of Jesus always.
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
The first part of our 2018 theme has a two-fold meaning or message for our community. Firstly, it means that the community is being asked to rekindle the gifts of the Holy Spirit that we used to experience and enjoy during the early years of the community – the gifts of knowledge, wisdom, faith, healing, prophecy, mighty deeds, discernment of spirits, tongues, and interpretation of tongues. We are asked to restore the vibrant worship—the loud praising, the raising of hands, the jumping and dancing – that the community used to witness during its early years. We are asked to stir up our prophetic utterances during community worship so that they are authentically Spirit-led and not reportorial or discursive. We are to rekindle the fire of evangelization and service that used to burn in the hearts of senior members – former leaders and elders – so that, although no longer as strong physically as before, they can better contribute to the evangelization and pastoral work of the community. We are asked to rekindle the fire among the young to once again volunteer to work as full time pastoral workers and missionaries, as they did before in droves, by vigorously implementing focused and funded evangelization programs where they could actively participate rather than posting them in clerical or eventorganizing tasks.
But although all these are important and should be rekindled, we ought to be reminded of Paul’s admonition in his letter to the Corinthians: If I speak in human and angelic tongues, but do not have love, I am a resounding gong or a clashing cymbal. And if I have the gift of prophecy, and comprehend all mysteries and all knowledge; if I have all faith so as to move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give away everything I own, and if I hand my body over so that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing. (1 Cor 13:1-3) This, we firmly believe, is the second and more important message of the first part of our new theme – to rekindle love in the community. Love of God and love of others ought to be pervasive, authentic and pure. Love is lacking if slanderous letters circulate within the community or malicious whispers are made during selection of leaders. Love is wanting if leaders are hesitant to address issues in brotherly dialogue directly among opposing groups. Love is deficient when leaders accommodate what is wrong and wrongful just so no one’s feelings are hurt. Love is weak when leaders who have pastoral responsibility shy away from the thankless job of patient correction and brotherly guidance. Our theme, therefore, is timely. It is time to rekindle God’s gift of love.
CFC OSM CEM 1 (MAAP) Mariveles, Bataan THE nine-member OSM service team from Manila arrived at the Manila Yacht Club in Roxas Blvd on September 9, in time for the 7:00 AM departure for Mariveles, Bataan via the MAAP launch boat. Our group, headed by MGen Willy Ona and wife Imee, docked at the MAAP port in Mariveles at 8:45 AM in high spirits. The CFC Zambales team of eight members were likewise at the venue, waiting for us to arrive. Upon arriving at the venue, the 324 cadet-participants were divided into two groups. The first batch, composed of 140 men, 106 Catholics and 34 non-Catholics, were the first to hear the good news. Danny Sayson, a core member of the OSM, was the moderator, and he also led the invocation. Ona gave the Overview Talk, followed by the first talk “Heroes for God and Country” given by Capt. Jorge Ibarra (PNavy), a member of CFC Zambales. Talk 2, “Roadblocks to Greatness” was given by Roland Ong, with Fred Asence of the Philippine Navy as sharer. After a late lunch, the sessions resumed with Elmer
Jacob giving the third talk, “Defending our Families, Building our Homes”. The family of Roger Valiente of CFC Zambales gave a heartwarming sharing of the love they experience in serving God as a family. The fourth talk by Danny Sayson focused on the subject “Forgiveness— a Key to success” with Arnel Mariposque (Philippine Navy) as sharer. The last topic for the evening was ‘All out victory’ delivered by Ona. Afterwards, the cadets shared their realizations with the plenary. Most of those who stepped forward shared about family matters such as growing up with absentee parents, dysfunctional family life and fears regarding life and the future. MAAP Guidance Counselor Maryjane Abadicio, and Assistant Director for Logistics and Support Lt. Harold Taguinod reassured and inspired the cadets to push on despite the challenges. The second batch of cadets had 131 Catholics and 53 non-Catholics. The same set of speakers gave the sessions. For the sharing of personal testimonies, this batch focused
mostly on forgiveness, with admissions of making mistakes against their parents and themselves. They resolved that in order to fulfill their dreams of a better life for their families and their own future, it was important that each of them move on and not be too hard on themselves. Family was always highlighted as one force that makes them sustain the challenges they face at the Academy. Lt. Taguinod once again delivered a very inspiring message: “Character should be enhanced more, as well as the fear of God. One needs to develop more patience, to change one’s ways in order to be a better person.” He likewise thanked the OSM team for the efforts to share with MAAP in the formation of the cadets. The event closed at noon with a prayer, everyone asking God for mercy and protection for the OSM team from Manila. It was an honor working for the Lord, unworthy as we are. We were privileged to share His love to the young generation of future merchant mariners. (Elmer D. Jacob)
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its expertise in moral values reorientation, parenting, family solidarity, financial management and sustainability, youth formation, among others. “The trust and confidence of the Church, as manifested by the Memorandum of Understanding with the CBCP Episcopal Commission on Migrants and Itinerant Peoples (ECMI), inspires and strengthens our resolve to actively engage, not only in helping set up the Migrants Desk in dioceses nationwide, but also in many other issues that confront our modern-day heroes, such as human trafficking,” Ferrer emphasized. Vis-à-vis CFC’s vision of being families in the Holy Spirit renewing the face of the Earth, the CFC Migrants Program underscores the migrant’s role as missionaries of the New Millennium, giving premium on moral values reorientation and spiritual formation. The families left behind are given the same formation programs in order to ensure that the families, though physically apart, can be spiritually together in building their shared dreams. International Council member and ANCOP Head Lito Tayag discussed the CFC theme for 2018, as well as the three priority strategies that the IC would like to see happening in the coming year, particularly strengthening the core (family/ community life mission), expanding the reach (opening the gateways to wider evangelization),
and answering the cry of the poor and the most vulnerable. Tayag also acknowledged the desire of migrants to connect with a community in their host countries, especially in the Middle East. Since CFC’s presence is strong in the region, the members should find ways on how to connect with these migrants in order to make them feel they belong, that they have a family even while away from their own in order to help them combat loneliness. In the same way, Tayag also noted the need of the families left behind, especially solo parents who have to be both father and mother to their children while their spouses are away to earn a living. He encouraged CFC and the Family Ministries to take on the challenge of reaching out to the migrants’ families. Tayag also challenged CFC to look into what area in the Migrants Program the community can create the greatest impact. In his response, Fr. Resty Ogsimer, Executive Secretary of the CBCP Episcopal Commission for Pastoral Care for Migrants and Itinerant Peoples expressed gratitude for the involvement of CFC in CBCP-ECMI. “The apostolate will be more successful if the lay people are empowered to embrace the ministry,” Fr. Ogsimer stated. According to him, migration used to be a specialized issue in the Church, meaning it wasn’t part of MIGRANTS, C4
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October 16 - October 29, 2017 Vol. 21 No. 21
CBCP Monitor
CFC Indonesia Celebrates 27 Years COUPLES for Christ Indonesia celebrated its 27th anniversary last September 10, 2017 at Binus University – Anggrek Campus, Jakarta, Indonesia. It was attended by over 500 CFC and Family Ministries members coming from Jakarta, Tangerang, Pangkalpinang, Sarinda and other provinces where CFC is present. The event started with the Holy Eucharist celebrated by Rev. Fr. Jay Amamampang and co-celebrated with Rev. Fr. Hilbertus Hartono, MSF, Rev. Fr. Yosef and Rev. Fr. Ignas from the different dioceses in Indonesia. After the Mass, Alex Gosyanto, the CFC Indonesia National Director, opened the event and welcomed everyone to the celebration. His wife, Suanning, followed by giving an update on ANCOP activities in the country, highlighted by the newlyopened ANCOP School in Larantuka, Flores Island. Mannix Ocampo, CFC Indonesia Country Coordinator, emphasized in
his inspirational speech that Indonesia, though an archipelago, should be united in faith as everyone is called to be united in diversity and that CFC must be seen as one community with the one God. This unity was manifested even during lunch where everyone shared food delicacies coming from the different regions of the country. The event’s highlight was the CFC Got Talent performances where CFC members and the Family Ministries showed their talents in singing, dancing, band and poetry. The 1st prize was won by Pangkalpinang Chapter via their band performance. Bea (KFC) & Shine (YFC) got the 2nd prize and Abe (SFC) won the 3rd prize. The anniversary concluded with a praisefest led by Chingboi Laruan, a YFC fulltime pastoral worker. Everyone went home with a smile, having received not just the prizes and the goody bags but most importantly, the assurance of God’s faithfulness. (Glendz Andrade)
CFC International Catholic Men's Conference held in Fremont, California
ABOUT 200 Catholic men roared in joyful prayer, feverish praising, intensive discourse and selfless sharing of spiritual experiences and wisdom at the Mother Teresa Event Center of the St. James the Apostle Catholic Church in Fremont, California last September 15-17 2017. Coming from all over the West Coast of the United States and Canada, the Men of God and Servants of the Lord congregated for the three-day 2017 International Catholic Men's Conference. The confab's opening welcome fellowship commenced with initial encore performance by Tracy Boyz and fun-filled thumb-wrestling challenge competition. For the Caucasian attendees who joined the esprit de corps dinner, the venerable pork vienna sausages was a choice but they also gleefully picked Filipino entrees kamayan style (eating with bare hands). With the camaraderie spirit set in tone, the delegates were ready to don their gray conference shirts for serious discussions in the next two days. On Saturday, St. James the Apostle Catholic Church Priest Fr. Anthony Vaz challenged the conferees to change their
life by changing habits and staying close to God. In the first session titled “I Dare You”, CFC USA National Director Toffee Jeturian stressed, “Our faith will always be tested and challenged no matter how strong we are... We always have crosses in life... Don't resist crosses. When life gets too hard, kneel.” In his talk, Jeturian aired the prayer for every one to raise at all times, “Lord, help me get one more for you.” His talk was buttressed by two sharers, Eddie Gonda and Alvin Santos who both highlighted their deep faith in God and His providence. The afternoon talk of Jojo Reandelar reminded everyone that weathering the storm can only be overcome by faith, citing Mark 4:40: “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” Sharer James de Leon confirmed this by sharing his life, which was wrought by early hardships such as a car crash, divorce and financial hardships. Instead of being affected by the difficulties, he committed himself to God and served the Church more, affirming his trust in the Lord. The evening fellowship peaked with the delegates donning their favorite sports team jerseys and belting out per-
formance presentations and role-playing of popular cinema characters, movies and celebrity icons. On Day 3, Joemar Salumbides, International Coordinator for SOLD, in his session titled “I Will”, said that life is not a case of “I will, but His will”. “Everything must be lifted high to the Almighty Lord,” Salumbides shared. “We must believe in Jesus Christ so we will succeed. Do not merely listen to the Word. Carry each other’s burdens, for in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” In the “I Will” ceremony, participants were given ballers with “I Will” and this year's conference theme “Be Strong and Courageous” inscribed on it. Sharers Ramiro Dela Cruz, a heavy and agricultural machinery businessman who flew from Manila for the conference with spouse Gilda, and Bart Ancheta shared how they encountered difficulties in their lives, how they survived these because of their strong faith and how God has been so good that they now have successful careers. Next year, the Catholic Men's Conference goes to Oregon and San Diego. (Text and photo by Federico A. Espiritu of CFC SOLD APC/ FilAm Star)
ANCOP Calgary Stages a Successful Benefit Concert THE elegant concert place, Jack Singer Hall in downtown Calgary, was packed with people expecting to hear their favorite songs from Filipino singer Joey Albert. After all, it has been almost 15 years since Joey Albert performed in Calgary. This time, she was joined by another noted Filipino singer, Ray-An Fuentes. They did not disappoint. Talented Laurie Callao from Calgary rendered the opening act with two songs, one of which was an original composition by Carlos Perez titled “Love More”. The Joey Albert and Ray-An Fuentes benefit concert was full of nostalgia. Their voices were powerful and sounded very much the same, with many commenting that they were walang kupas. They were later joined by RayAn’s son and daughter, Julio and Daniela as their back-up singers. Both of them rendered solos of newer songs. The concert, titled ‘Journey of our Life’, was very entertaining and interactive, with Joey encouraging audience participation karaoke-style. The pride of CFC Calgary, Pam Tadifa was voted unanimously to have a duet with
CFC Australia's Senior Couples Reignited! “THE Senior Couples Retreat is a breath of fresh air in CFC Australia. Before you came, the mood here was very somber and gloomy because of the many issues confronting us—the same sex marriage referendum, issues among the very members of the community. You assured us that there is always hope and that God is not done with us yet. You are a welcome breath and we are thankful that you came here.” This was the message of Susan Mission of CFC Australia during the fellowship and send off dinner held at the Sydney home of Nonoy and Tina Albano last October 11, 2017 for the Australia Senior Couples Retreat Team. The SCR Mission Team was composed mostly of CFC MM South B Sector members headed by Adolfo "Boy" Granados and wife Lida, along with Rene and Mimi Bello, Raymond and Anna Bucu and Ike Bontia. The Senior Couples' Retreat (SCR) is a two-day teaching event which aims to encourage CFC senior couples not only to take a more positive view of their status as elders of the community but also to be able to reach a holy understanding of what the Lord wants them to become in their senior years. The retreat consists of five enlightening talks, with each one enhancing not only the participants' understanding of their roles as CFC members but also the way that husbands and wives should see each other in the context of Christian marriage. The talks were further strengthened by carefully chosen songs that were sung live during moments of reflection. The Australian SCR was attended by eight CFC couples led by Denis and Ruth Reyes of the CFC Australia Governance Team. It began with a lively worship Saturday morning of October 7 and was concluded the next day, along with a renewal of vows during a regular Mass celebrated by Fr. Frank Regala at the Our Lady of the Rosary Parish in Fairfield, Sydney. During the homily Fr. Regala spoke at length about the commitment of husbands and wives to
each other, strengthened by the bonds of love and sanctified by the Sacrament of Marriage. Fr. Regala also stated that what he admires most about CFC is the emphasis that it puts on the sanctity of marriage and family. He exhorted the participants to always bear in mind that they are couples FOR Christ and as such they need to be always connected to Jesus in the life that they lead. "Remember this... you are not only a couple, but you are Couples for Christ." Fr. Regala further encouraged all parishioners present in the Mass, most of whom were locals, to seek out CFC members and become part of the community. He said that CFC is wonderful community for couples who want the Lord to be part of their union. During the fellowship, lively discussions on age, retirement and CFC service ensued as stories were swapped about the couples’ early years in Australia and the growth of CFC in Australia. Among the old-timers were Nonoy and Tina Albano who came to Australia in 1988 and joined CFC in 1994. They shared that they officially
started their retirement by participating in the SCR. They said the SCR was truly a revelation and that it encouraged them to give more of themselves in their capacity as country coordinators of CFC Vanuatu. Boyet and Myrna Nobleza have been in Australia since 1990 and became CFC members in the same year. Boyet, who retired in 2017 while Myrna continues to work as a government employee in Sydney, revealed that his retirement caused him to struggle for a while with being alone in the house. But because of 27 years of continued service in CFC in Australia, he managed to overcome his struggles. “The SCR is a beautiful teaching and it really fired us up to become better pastoral leaders to members of our CFC Unit.” In response to the positive reactions, Boy Granados can only share, “Everywhere we bring the SCR to, there is always one common thread in the participants’ sharing – that they thought they are not needed anymore but the SCR tells them that God is not done with them yet.” (Raymond V. Bucu)
Joey on stage. The song was a Joey Albert hit, ‘Points of View’, which they rendered so well, their voices blending perfectly. It was an evening to remember, a powerful three-hour show. The concert was likewise inspiring because Joey, a three-time cancer survivor, testified that her faith in God led her to go on with her singing career. Ray-An, on the other hand, shared how he had left show business in 1988 at the height of his career to answer God’s call. He is now a pastor of Word International Ministries. Prior to the show, an audiovisual feature recognizing and appreciating the generous sponsors who supported the concert was shown. The concert opened with the video of ANCOP kids singing the Philippine and Canadian national anthems. This was followed by a video showing projects and testimonies of the families and children helped by ANCOP with a call to sponsor a child at the end. The two artists touched the audience by the sharing of their faith and their conviction that nothing is impossible with the Lord Jesus Christ. (excerpted from ancopcanada.org)
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the Church’s mainstream program and only a few are involved in the thrust. The Commission’s goal therefore was to make the program more mainstream. Partnering with a community like Couples for Christ has made the program mainstream as it got more people to talk about and engage in it. Fr. Resty described the vulnerability especially of unskilled workers, who comprise 65% of migrant workers. Pastoral workers, like priests and the religious, who are engaged in the ministry of migration are constantly face to face with these challenges, including addressing the plight of familes left behind. However, migration does not talk about employment only. In the Philippine setting, this could be true, but in a global scale, employment is not the sole reason for migration. Human trafficking (with problems in prostitution, slave labor and harvesting of human organs), the refugees or asylum seekers displaced by violence or war, seafarers’ welfare (apostleship of the sea) are also some of the sectors in the migration realm that the Church encounters. It is in these areas that Fr. Resty is challenging CFC to do more. He laid out other sectors for ministry like the apostleship of the air, or ministry in the airports. “There are chapels in our airports now. Perhaps CFC can also get involved in ministering to those who are leaving or in welcoming those who are arriving. Six thousand Filipinos leave the country for employment. Our long-term goal is to build chapels in international airports nationwide so we can minister to them before they leave,” shared Fr. Resty. Overall, the CBCP ECMI and CFC’s ultimate goal in the migrant apostolate is to focus on that synergized effort to ensure that migration becomes a tool for families to be empowered, protected and taken care of. (Alma Alvarez)