Gifted to Give A Benilde Virtual Pilgrimage on the Occasion of the Celebration of the 500 YOC

Center for Lasallian Ministry De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde

GIFTED TO GIVE

A Benilde Virtual Pilgrimage on the Occasion of the Celebration of the 500 Years of Christianity in the Philippines

Ad usum 1privatum

INTRODUCTION The Christian tradition has always regarded pilgrimage as a spiritual journey that can bring us closer to God. This teleological mindset and disposition remind us that our ultimate end is God and our lives are actually journeys toward our ultimate end.

Whenever we go on a pilgrimage, we always perceive the internal dimension of our journey, becoming more aware of the presence and movement of God in our lives. As pilgrims, we are to be shaped by our spiritual journey, focusing not only on the destination but on the journey itself as a space of meaning and encounters. We always seek community along the way. Depth, not distance, is the goal. We value not the mileage but the lived experience with becoming a more fully alive human beings under the grace of God. The year 2020 has been challenging year for us because of the pandemic. We become fully aware of our total dependence on the providence and guidance of God. Our life's pilgrimage is not easy yet it invites us to recognize God along the way, walking with us just as He walked with the disciples on the Road to Emmaus (Cf. Luke 24:13-35) and that He is on our boat (life), calming the storms of our lives (Cf. Mark 4:35-41).

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The year 2021 is year of gratitude for us Filipino Christians. It is the celebration of the 500 Years of Christianity in the Philippines. The theme, Gifted to Give, is a disposition of grateful heart. Gratitude is always rooted on giftedness and it always leads to giving. Despite of the challenges, di iculties and trials that we face, there are still so many reasons to be grateful and to give.

On the occasion of this profound celebration of the Filipino Christian faith, the Center for Lasallian Ministry of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde o ers "Gifted to Give: a Benilde Virtual Pilgrimage" featuring the Jubilee Churches in the Archdiocese of Manila.

This eBooklet will serve as a prayer guide as we journey together in the comfort of our homes, uniting ourselves in thanksgiving and prayer. Despite that we cannot be physically together due to the pandemic, the spirit of communion will unify our hearts, prayers, and intentions.

May this virtual pilgrimage bring us to a more awareness of God’s presence in our lives. May this spiritual journey remind us of the zeal that God calls us to work for His mission, sustaining us and granting us the grace to continue all our actions for the love of Him. May this journey together allow us to live Jesus in our hearts, forever!

May Saint John Baptist de La Salle, Saint Benilde Romançon and all the Lasallian Saints and Blessed accompany us in our pilgrimage in life.

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CALL TO PRAYER “Wherever I go I will ind you, my God.” - Saint John Baptist de La Salle

Prayer Leader: Let us remember that we are in the holy presence of God… Observe few moments of silence.

What are our intentions for this virtual pilgrimage?

Are there longing in our hearts that we wish to bring to the Lord today?

Observe few moments of silence.

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Opening Hymn: Song of Ruth (Music Video) Wherever you go, I shall go Wherever you live, so shall I live Your people will be my people, And your god will be my god, too.

Wherever you die, I shall die; And there shall I be buried beside you We will be together forever, And our love will be the gift of our life

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Prayer Leader: Beloved brothers and sisters, as we begin this holy pilgrimage, let us ask for the grace of faith to become pilgrims for Jesus, to walk with Him in the path of holiness. As a Lasallian community in Benilde, we are challenged to respond zealously to the call of becoming educators in faith and in life. This concrete act of sacri ice is a great manifestation of our desire to move forward as one community towards a complete realization of the mission entrusted to us by God through Saint John Baptist de La Salle. This virtual pilgrimage is also a moment for us to pray for our journey as we face the challenges of the pandemic, to pray for our brethren who are deeply a licted by this crisis and for all the things we have confronted as a global community. We remember those who have lost their lives so suddenly and we hold in our hearts the families forever changed by grief and loss. We surround them with our prayers for strength so that they may have a new hope to face a new road ahead. With Mary, Our Lady of the Star, our constant companion in this journey, may she always grant us her maternal protection, peace and good voyage as we continue living-out our Benildean-Lasallian journey.

Observe few moments of silence.

Prayer Leader: God our Father, be with us on our pilgrim journey of faith. Give us the grace and courage to step forward in faith and hope on the road we are about to traverse. Lord Jesus, open our eyes to see your face in all those we encounter. Open our ears to hear your voice in those who are often ignored. Open our hearts that we might be faithful disciples of mercy and truth. Holy Spirit,

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transform us. Empower us to give of ourselves to the poor; to welcome the lost; to forgive those who hurt us; to comfort those who su er and are marginalized. Bless us, O Triune God, like the disciples whom You journeyed with in their way to Emmaus, may this experience be a genuine encounter that would strengthen us to recognize you in our day-to-day journey. Through the intercession of Mary, Our Lady of the Star, may we be worthy witnesses of our faith as inspired Benildeans, bringing peace, hope, and compassion into our families, communities and to the whole nation.

Amen.

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FIRST CHURCH - GIFTED TO BELIEVE

MANILA CATHEDRAL Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception

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he Mother of all Churches, Cathedrals and Basilicas of the Philippines. The Manila Cathedral-Basilica is the Premier Church of the Philippines because of all the Churches in the archipelago, it was the one chosen to become the Cathedral in 1581 when the Philippines was separated from the Archdiocese of Mexico and became a new diocese with its episcopal seat in Manila. As the Church of Manila, it was established by the secular priest Juan de Vivero in 1571 under the patronage of Mary, La Purissima e Inmaculada Concepcion. Fr. Vivero was given the special privilege and sole faculty by the Archbishop of Mexico to take care of the spiritual welfare of the new Philippine colony.

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The Manila Cathedral-Basilica is the Premier Cathedral of the Philippines for the obvious reason that it is the irst Cathedral of the Philippines.

The Manila Cathedral-Basilica is the Premier Basilica of the Philippines because among the Churches in the Philippines it is the only one elevated to the rank of a Basilica by the Pope’s own initiative (motu proprio). All other Churches in the Philippines became a Basilica due to the initiative of the local Church where it is located. His Holiness, Pope John Paul II, now a canonized Saint, raised the Manila Cathedral to the dignity of a Basilica (motu proprio) on April 27, 1981, two months after his irst visit to the Philippines in February 1981. As the Premier Church, Premier Cathedral and Premier Basilica, the Manila Cathedral-Basilica is the Mother of all Churches, Cathedrals and Basilicas in the Philippines.

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Reading From the holy gospel according to Luke (1:26-38) The angel Gabriel was sent from God to a town of Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph, of the house of David, and the virgin’s name was Mary. And coming to her, he said, “Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you.” But she was greatly troubled at what was said and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name him Jesus. He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give him the throne of David his father, and he will rule over the house of Jacob forever, and of his Kingdom there will be no end. But Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I have no relations with a man?” And the angel said to her in reply, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God. And behold, Elizabeth, your relative, has also conceived a son in her old

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age, and this is the sixth month for her who was called barren; for nothing will be impossible for God.” Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” Then the angel departed from her.

Re lection What is so special about Mary that we must ask her to guide us and to journey with us in our pilgrimage? It is her Amen her faith. Her Amen made possible for the heavens to rain down the Savior. Her Amen was a partnership with God for the salvation of the world in Jesus Christ.

She did not understand everything. She did not know all the details. She only knew that if God called, nothing would be impossible. She knew there was a seed starting to grow and she embraced it with all her heart. All these she expressed in her Amen. And she started to conceive!

It is faith, too, that will make us celebrate a di erent kind of pilgrimage this year. Are we willing to say Amen to the will of God in our daily lives? Like the appearance of the angel, many things appear to us mysterious and not easily comprehensible. Everything seems unclear about our future. But God is calling us to believe and to put our faith into action.

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As we say our Amen, we are invited to live out our faith and truly believe that God has great plans for us, just as he had for Mary.

Let us pray…

O Most Blessed Virgin Mary, you who were preserved from the stain of original sin, most loving and powerful patron of the Philippines, to you also be endless praise, everlasting veneration and thanksgiving in Christ Jesus.

O Immaculate Mother, our most kind Mother, our most sweet and most exalted Queen, with grateful hearts we praise your mercies and ly to your protection.

O Blessed Lady, you who captivate with your sweetness the hearts of men, you who have captivated our hearts, you have captivated the hearts of our people also.

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Are we willing to believe that God has better things in store for us? Are we ready to accept that the best is yet to come?

Are we ready to proclaim that God is the God of the impossible because he works big and small miracles in us, and his love overcomes all obstacles?

We are yours, we wish to be yours, show yourself a Mother and Patron to us, guard us and protect us through you most powerful intercession. Amen.

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You have established, fostered, and strengthened the foundations of the faith in our beloved land by your good patronage as manifested in so many visible proofs of your maternal love.

SECOND CHURCH - GIFTED TO ENDURE

QUIAPO CHURCH Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene and Saint John the Baptist Parish

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uiapo Church, located at Plaza Miranda along Quezon Boulevard, Manila, is home to the 17th century lifesized image of the Black Nazarene. Many Filipinos have a devotion to the Black Nazarene. Many experienced the miraculous healings and answered prayers of the Lord of the Black Nazarene.

Quiapo Church is a center for pilgrimage of Filipinos from all over. Those who come to Manila would pay their respects to the Black Nazarene.

Everyday there are hourly Masses and Confessions. Fridays is the Day of the Lord of the Black Nazarene and the Church becomes illed with devotees. There are regular talks and recollections in the Church as well as processions, novenas and social services for the poor.

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On January 9, a multitude of bare-footed devotees, most of whom are men, join the procession as an expression of both supplication and gratitude. Riding on the andas or carroza, pulled by two 50-meter abaca ropes, the Nazarene is brought to various barangays in the Quiapo District. The procession – that usually lasts between ive to twenty-three hours- is likewise held during Good Friday, on the irst day of the year, and on the Sunday before Passion Sunday for the District-wide Way of the Cross.

Reading From the Letter of Paul to the Romans (5:1-5) Therefore, since we have been justi ied by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith to this grace in which we stand, and we boast in hope of the glory of God. Not only that, but we even boast of our a lictions, knowing that a liction produces endurance, and endurance, proven character, and proven character, hope, and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us.

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Re lection Tribulation brings about perseverance and endurance.

Our reading proclaims that we are not putting our faith and trust in a God who might or could possibly deliver on His promise of salvation. We are assured that these promises of peace and hope can be ful illed because God has already delivered or ful illed His promise to save us from the death of sin through the Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Our peace and hope are based on the love of God who loved us irst and who sent His only Son Jesus who has already died for our sins that we would be reconciled to the Father through this sel less act of grace.

Romans 5:3 says, "And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that is, because we know that tribulation brings about perseverance." Another word for "perseverance" is "endurance." If something happens in our life that is painful, frustrating and disappointing, and, by grace, our faith looks up to Christ; to his power, his su iciency, his fellowship, his wisdom and his love. We do not give in to bitterness, resentment and complaining, then our faith endures and perseveres. It becomes stronger. It is

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stronger the way tempered steel is stronger: it takes more to break it. Tribulation is like the ire that tempers the steel of faith. So when Paul says, "Tribulation brings about perseverance," he means that the iery tests of trouble are meant by God to make our faith unbreakable. Our devotion to Hesus, Poong Nazareno resonates our victory over the cross, the trials that we encounter in life. Like Jesus who triumphs the weight of the cross, we seek his constant help for the gift of endurance and faith that we may be victorious as well.

When challenges and di iculties come my way, do I respond in faith or in fear?

In this time of uncertainty, do I place my full trust in Jesus who bears my crosses with me?

Let us pray..

Beloved Lord Jesus, Black Nazarene, I come to You to help me.

Life is a constant struggle, and I now feel the pain of my journey. Bless me, Jesus, and teach me to listen, to all the events of my life, knowing that nothing happens by

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I come to you today, to pray for healing to listen to my petitions… (Silently mention your intentions) I pray to you and to Mother Mary to answer my prayers.

Amen.

Black Nazarene, I put my trust in you!

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chance. Everything that happens has a reason. When I feel the pain of sickness, teach me to cope with loving surrender and to believe in the power of healing. When I experience emotional, inancial and psychological brokenness, help me to rise up with the belief that with God, nothing is impossible.

THIRD CHURCH - GIFTED TO GUIDE

ERMITA CHURCH Archdiocesan Shrine of Nuestra Señora de Guia

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he Archdiocesan Shrine of Nuestra Señora de Guia, also known as Ermita Shrine is the home of the oldest Marian image in the Philippines, Nuestra Señora de Guía. The church began as a rustic shrine made of bamboo, nipa, and molave wood that was built to house the image of Nuestra Señora de Guia in the area where it was found in 1571 by Spanish soldiers under Miguel López de Legazpi.

The shrine eventually became a chapel built in 1606 as house for the image and was called La Ermita, ”The Chapel" in English. The word also gave the name to the present district in Manila where the chapel is located. A more permanent stone church was built in 1810; the image was returned to the church in 1918.

In 1945 near the end of World War II, the church was reduced to rubble during the Battle of Manila. However, the image was saved from destruction and was temporarily kept in a private residence. Work began for the reconstruction of the church in 1947 with a new design by architect Carlos A. Santos-Viola. By 1953, the reconstruction was completed

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and the image was returned to the new church. On December 3, 2005, Manila Archbishop Gaudencio B. Cardinal Rosales elevated the status of this church to an archdiocesan shrine.

Reading From the holy gospel according to John (10:3-4) The gatekeeper opens it for him, and the sheep hear his voice, as he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has driven out all his own, he walks ahead of them, and the sheep follow him, because they recognize his voice.

Re lection Establishing a good prayer life helps us to acknowledge the voice of the Good Shepherd. Sometimes, we feel it stronger when we listen to the elders, to our colleagues or to our spiritual friends, to a priest, learning to distinguish the voice of the Lord. This will help us to re lect more on who and what it is that prevents us following the Lord faithfully.

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Mary is our Mother and our Guide to Jesus. She wants us to always be closer to Jesus. Her heart’s desire is that we always listen to our Good Shepherd so that we will always be on the right path towards the Father. In life there are many roads we can take so we can arrive at our destination but sometimes there is one road that is easy and shorter that will lead us to our destination safely.

In our Christian life, we have our easiest and safest road and guide that leads to Jesus and that is through Mary, His Mother and our Mother too. Do I seek the voice of Jesus, the Good Shepherd? Recall a time in your life that you seek the guidance of Mary?

May Mary, Nuestra Señora De Guia, be our guide and inspiration as we journey back to the Father.

Let us pray…

I revere thee with all my heart, Most Holy Virgin, above all the Angels and Saints of Heaven and I consecrate to thee my soul with all its faculties, my body with all its senses, and

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my heart with all its a ections praying that thou wilt obtain for me from the Blessed Trinity all the graces I need for salvation.

Hail Mary..

O Peerless Lady!

How wretched and paltry is our gratitude beside thy in inite graciousness! How kind and good thou art, O Lady, to us, the children of Adam! As the generous dispenser of all divine graces, what have we not received from thy tender and merciful heart? (Mention your intentions) This very land owes its happiness to the presence of thy holy image which has drawn to us all the favors which we unceasingly receive from God. Thy image is for us a loving proof of thy Motherly love and a ection as well as a shining mirror where we can glimpse thy most admirable virtues. Be always our guide, O Mary, our model, our help and succor, and although we are miserable sinners, turn not away from us thy Motherly heart. Do not allow this land to ever forget thee, and as long as one of us shall remain to invoke thy Sweet Name, O Mary, show thyself always our Most tender Mother, our steadfast advocate, our safe refuge, and most loving guide. Amen.

Mary, our Guide, show your motherly love and pity upon us.

Nuestra Señora de Guia, pray for us.

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FOURTH CHURCH - GIFTED TO TRUST

TONDO CHURCH Archdiocesan Shrine of Santo Niño de Tondo

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oughly 450 years ago, at the western shores of Manila, a Spanish ship arrived, with it was the new and righteous King of the Land, the Santo Niño, the second image in the country after the venerable image gifted to Rajah Humabon of Cebu. The image was welcomed in the kingdom near the coast, the Kingdom of Lakan Dula of Tondo. The pagan king chose to dethrone himself and gave his palace to enshrine the Child Jesus, he also chose to become a Christian and baptized as King Carlos.

The palace was then dedicated as a church to the Most Holy Name of Jesus by the Spanish Friars in May 3, 1572, and had its irst minister in the person of Fray Alonzo Alvardo of the Order of Saint Augustine. A convent was eventually constructed at the side of the church in 1583, and then in 1587, it housed a school called Studium Grammaticae. The church was sold to Fray Antonio de Ocampo for 800 pesos in 1625, which advanced the

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construction for the bigger church structure. Enlargement of the church and the building of the main facade continued in 1728 to 1880 under the supervision of Fray Diego Bergano, and Fray Casimiro Herrero.

After the war, Monsignor Jose N. Jovellanos, who served at Tondo Church for half a century as parish priest, commissioned a new image of Our Lady of Candles. On the other hand, the revered image of Santo Niño de Tondo was spared from all of these unfortunate events, until the sacrilege theft of it. It was in the morning of July 14, 1972 when the image was taken from the high altar by Reynio Rivera and three others.

On the same date, in the year 1987, by the grace of His Eminence Jaime Cardinal Sin, rededicated the church as the Parish Church of the Santo Niño de Tondo to honor the anniversary of its miraculous return. After 32 years, the Parish Church of Tondo was granted once again a new title by the grace of His Eminence Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle as Archdiocesan Shrine as a recognition to the blazing devotion that this church enshrines to the spiritual life of many faithful in the Archdiocese of Manila.

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Reading From the holy gospel according to Mark (10:13-16) And people were bringing children to him that he might touch them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this he became indignant and said to them, "Let the children come to me; do not prevent them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Amen, I say to you, whoever does not accept the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it." Then he embraced them and blessed them, placing his hands on them.

Re lection A child is very dependent on his/ her parents. He/she depends on everything that will fortify him/ her. The trust that he/she puts in his/her parents is great and cannot simply be ignored. As God’s children, we continue to depend on God. Though at times of our stubbornness speci ically with the stubbornness of our hearts, we tend to be away from God. As we celebrate the 500

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years of our faith in our land, we continue to ask for the gift of trust.

Like the Sto. Niño, may we learn how to be humble and to trust God in our life as His children. It is in our humility towards God that we acknowledge the truth of our human nature. We cannot simply do things on our own. We are still dependent on God. We still continue to lift up to Him our petitions most especially on the things that are beyond our control. Yes, we are given talents that can help us to accomplish things in our life. But, our reality speaks of the truth that we cannot do everything without God. Like God who entrusted his Son Jesus to Mary and Joseph, may we also learn to entrust ourselves to His will. It is in surrendering and entrusting ourselves to His will that we practice our full trust in His ways. This also helps us to become true witnesses and bearers of trust. It is the gift given to us by Him. It is this gift where God tells us to be docile about it in our words and deeds.

What is the importance of placing our trust in God? How do we manifest our faith and trust in Him? In what ways can we encourage others to surrender oneself to God’s will?

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Let us pray..

O Holy Child Jesus, who sheds Your blessings on whoever invokes Your name, look kindly on us who kneel humbly before Your holy Image, and hear our prayers.

We commend to Your mercy the many poor and needy people who trust in Your Divine Heart.

Lay Your all powerful hand upon them and help them in their needs.

Lay Your hand upon the sick, to cure them and sanctify their su ering; upon those in distress, to console them; upon sinners, to draw them into the light of your divine grace; upon all those who, stricken with grief and su ering, turn trustingly to You for loving help.

Lay Your hand also upon all of us and give us Your blessing.

O little King, grant the treasures of Your divine mercy to all the world, and keep us now and always in the grace of your love! Amen.

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SAN PABLO CHURCH San Pablo Apostol Parish

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ope Paul VI visited the Philippines and he also went Tondo. In the same year, San Pablo Apostol Parish was established in memory of this signi icant visit of the Pope and San Pablo Apostol was declared patron of the parish.

December of 1970, the parish was established and it was irst entrusted by the Archdiocese of Manila to the PIME Fathers. The parish was located in a 500 sqm. area in Jacinto St. Magsaysay Village. January 1971, the boundary for the new parish of San Pablo Apostol was identi ied. It extended the whole area from Capulong St. to Vitas Tenement.

At present, the boundary extends from Herbosa Pritil until Vitas Tenement. In 1979 the new Chapel of Nepo was established called San Pablo-B. It was located at the corner of Velasquez St. and Nepomuceno St. The PIME Fathers left the parish in 1979. They stayed for almost ten years.

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FIFTH CHURCH - GIFTED TO PROCLAIM

In 1981, the Congregation of the Society of St. Columban took over the responsibility of taking care of the parish. In 1989 the congregation decided to leave the parish.

December of 1989, the Congregation of the Canossian Sons of Charity (Canossian Fathers) arrived and took over the mission.

In October 4, 2007, the Archdiocese of Manila received a donation from Ayala Land Corporation of 1.3 hectare previously part of the area of formerly the Procter & Gamble PMC Plant and the area was entrusted to the Canossian Fathers to build a new church of San Pablo Parish. This area was called New Land as the new land where the center of the parish will be established.

In 2010, with the help of the Italian Foundation, benefactors and other friends, within three years the Formation Center in Newland was constructed. In 2012, Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle, the new Archbishop of Manila, led the ground-breaking ceremony of the construction of the new parish church.

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From the holy gospel according to Mark (16:15-20) And he said to them, ‘Go into all the world and proclaim the good news to the whole creation. The one who believes and is baptized will be saved; but the one who does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will accompany those who believe: by using my name they will cast out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up snakes in their hands, and if they drink any deadly thing, it will not hurt them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover.’

So then the Lord Jesus, after he had spoken to them, was taken up into heaven and sat down at the right hand of God. And they went out and proclaimed the good news everywhere, while the Lord worked with them and con irmed the message by the signs that accompanied it.

Re lection By the virtue of our baptism, our Lord Jesus Christ has entrusted us the mission to be evangelizers to proclaim the

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Being an evangelizer of the Word of God is not an easy task.

Challenges and di iculties may come in our ways.

Nevertheless, God has promised that He will be here and there to accompany us.

Let us pray…

Glorious Saint Paul, Most zealous Apostle, Martyr for the love of Christ, give us a deep faith, a steadfast hope, a burning love for our Lord, so that we can proclaim with you, 'It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.' Help us to become apostles, serving the Church with a pure heart, witnesses to her truth and beauty amidst the darkness of our days. With you we praise God our Father: 'To him be the glory, in the Church and in Christ, now and forever.' Amen.

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Word of God. We are called to preach, teach, and follow His words. Like the Fathers of PIME who led the way to build the irst church of San Pablo Apostol Parish in Tondo, despite the challenges during that time, they were able to do so because of their desire and commitment to spread the Word of God. The mission was continued and shared to the di erent congregations and until now, the Cannosian Fathers are taking care of their locks in Tondo.

SIXTH CHURCH - GIFTED TO BEAR THE CROSS

SANTA CLARA CHURCH Santa Clara de Montefalco Parish

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anta Clara de Montefalco Parish was originally a chapel for the people of Pineda (now known as the City of Pasay) for them to say their prayers and novenas. It was dedicated to the patron saint whose feast was celebrated during the irst mass in the parish. Augustinian priests were given the responsibility in taking care of the town of Pasay when it was separated from the town of Manila, until it was fully handed over to the Archdiocese of Manila in the early twentieth century.

Legend has it that there were several attempts for the church to be destroyed, with people inside getting hurt in the process.

However, those plans are foiled by the appearance of a woman holding a lamp, which the perpetrators see before executing their plan.

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Today, the Santa Clara de Montefalco Parish stands as the Mother Church of the Vicariate of Sta. Clara de Montefalco of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Manila (RCAM).

Reading From the Song of Songs (8:6-7) Set me as a seal upon your heart, as a seal upon your arm; For Love is strong as Death, longing is ierce as Sheol. Its arrows are arrows of ire, lames of the divine. Deep waters cannot quench love, nor rivers sweep it away. Were one to o er all the wealth of his house for love, he would be utterly despised.

Re lection How many times have you felt the weight of your cross is too heavy to bear? Have you ever felt that you could not ever go up and carry on?

The feeling of anxiety, that we are tired to go on and sometimes we don’t even know how long we can bear this.

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Everyone has his or her own cross in life to bear. Especially in this time of pandemic, we see how the world has su ered from the outbreak of this virus. We see the burden of everyone from losing their jobs, the illness of those who had been infected and the families who mourn for the loss of their loved ones. We’ve all experienced what it’s like to journey with burdens. For some these burdens grow and ease with time, But for others it will be hard to bear their burdens and move on.

This time we feel how heavy our cross is but also this time we should also see on the brighter side that we should never have to bear our cross alone. We are told that we are to bear or help each other’s burdens. We remember how Jesus carried His cross and died to bear the sins of his people. He willingly stood up by His Cross for our sake, for the sake of His love to us.

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Never give up no matter how many times we have fallen.

Remember how Jesus fell three times, but He rose again and again to give us hope, to pave the way for our salvation.

Just like Santa Clara de Montefalco, she bears her su ering and yet she was able to continue to serve because of her love for others.

What crosses are there in your life now? What graces do you ind in your cross? How can it help you grow in faith and as a person?

Let us pray…

Thank you, Lord, for guiding me as I continue to carry my cross. I know that you are with me. There are times I doubt you but you never leave me. Thank you for letting me know

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We should remember that how heavy our cross may be right now, know that you are never alone. God carries our cross with us. He carries our burdens long before we were born.

Because Jesus knows what we could never carry it on our own.

that I should not live in fear and to give my full trust to you, that you are in control of my emotions. When I feel that I am almost hanging there to my deepest despair, thank you for wiping my tears and worries. Thank you for comforting me, removing all the aches in me. Help me to be still and know that you are God. Be my Comforter, my Healer and bring peace in me.

Lord, I ask you to give me strength to face every hardship and trouble like Santa Clara when she bore your cross with joyful heart. Lord, I ask you that you bless me with your grace to continue and go on with all the responsibilities and duties that will cross my path, not just today but for the rest of my journey in this life. Amen.

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SEVENTH CHURCH - GIFTED TO PROTECT LIFE

GUADALUPE CHURCH National Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe

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he National Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe was established as a parish by Archbishop Gabriel M. Reyes, D.D. on November 23, 1951. On December 12 of the same year, Rev. Fr. Guillermo Tello, its irst pastor was installed. In the Marian Year of 1954, a replica of the Tilma was brought from Mexico and was devotedly placed in the main altar.

The devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary lourished and spread to other parts of Metro Manila and neighboring provinces. The parish adopted the advocacy of upholding the welfare of the Unborn, Sick, Aged and Disabled (USAD).

In recognition of this fervent devotion, Jaime Cardinal L. Sin elevated the Parish Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe into an Archdiocesan Shrine especially dedicated for the promotion of human life in all its forms on August 15, 2002.

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On January 22, 2010, the Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe was made a National Shrine through a unanimous decision of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) presided by the Bishop of Tandag, Nereo P. Odchimar, D.D. This National Shrine dedicated to the Prolife Patroness of the Philippines was formally declared in the Holy Mass celebrated by Gaudencio Cardinal B. Rosales, D.D. and participated by a multitude of devotees and parishioners on May 31 of the same year.

Reading From the holy gospel according to Matthew (18:1-2, 10) At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” And calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them…See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven their angels always see the face of my Father who is in heaven.

Re lection Mostly in our society, we regard children as the ones who are weak, small or voiceless and we are likely to overlook

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their importance. This may be because we thought that they are not capable of helping out in any way.

Like children, whom we described as “the little ones” not only in its literal sense but also the characteristic of being fragile can be attributed to some members of our society that are taken for granted because of their disability, being aged, orphaned and even to those who were not given the opportunity to come out in this world, and others who may have been a fruit of “unplanned” pregnancies. Jesus wants to impart us the value of respecting life, regardless of the state one is in. In this passage, we are being reminded not to do any harm to any of them. They are to be treated humanely like one of us as well.

Being graced with the gift of life is indeed a blessing to consider, not a burden, no matter what circumstance arises.

It is not also for those innocent lives to su er the consequences. It is in them that we ind delight that by God’s grace, they were entrusted to our care. And when it speaks of entrusting and caring, may we treat them right and not as if they are our possession. Remember that we are God’s steward. May we be a guide to them to become the best of themselves. In this we are serving our purpose.

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At what point in my life, did I feel like there was a shortfall of my temper in relating to the elder members of my family?

Was there a chance that I disregarded the thoughts of those younger than me because I’d been sel ish and all-knowing that I never give a chance to listen to them?

At this time of pandemic, when a mix of di erent kinds of distress (physical, mental, inancial, emotional) have struck, when someone pours his / her hearts out, do we really empathize with them? Do we in any way think of praying for those people struggling right now in their decision to continue bearing a child despite the hardships they face at this time?

Let us pray…

O Most Sweet Virgin of Guadalupe, Patroness of our lives, we give you thanks for the graces bestowed upon us and our families with the help of your prayers. May you continue to look after our health, strength and life so that we may be ruled by real Christian values: praying together, loving every member of our families, and helping our neighbors, since all of us are children of only one Father in heaven and are called to build one body and one fold in Christ. May our unity be made manifest in our good relations with one another, and in

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involving ourselves in di erent aspects of evangelization.

We hope to receive these graces for your honor, and for the good of our lives. Amen.

Our Lady of Guadalupe, Mother of Life, pray for us.

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EIGHTH CHURCH - GIFTED TO LEAD

SAN PEDRO MACATI CHURCH Saints Peter and Paul Parish

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n 1578 an inconspicuous "visita" served as the seat for the introduction of the Catholic faith and doctrine to the families who formed the early community along the banks of the Pasig River in a place referred to as “Macati”. The Franciscans, having established their mission house in Sta. Ana de Sapa of which Makati was then a village, faithfully tended to the spiritual needs of the natives for 42 years.

The arrival of the image of the Virgen de la Rosa (Our Lady of the Rose) in 1718 from Acapulco was most welcomed by its parishioners who remained faithful to their Saturday Marian devotion. An extraordinary feature of this image, according to the testimony of Fr. P. Delgado, SJ who brought the image from Mexico, is a reliquary on her breast, in which was conserved a strand of hair of the Blessed Mother. A Jesuit historian, Rev. Fr. Pedro Murillo Velarde, in his “Historian de la Provincia de Filipinas de la Compania de Jesus,” included an actual photograph of the Virgen de la

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Rosa and described it as a statue of great beauty and perfection.

The Parish of Saints Peter and Paul is indeed blessed to be able to celebrate momentous and signi icant occasions, attached with the privileges of being a Jubilee church, namely: the 300th Anniversary of the Arrival of the image of the Virgen de la Rosa de Macati last February 25, 2018, o iciated by then Cardinal Luis Antonio G. Tagle; the Canonical Coronation of the Virgen de la Rosa de Macati on March 16, 2019 by then Apostolic Nuncio Gabriele Giordano Caccia; and the 400th Anniversary of the Parish Church on November 29, 2020 by Apostolic Administrator Bishop Broderick Pabillo.

Reading From the Second Letter of Paul to Timothy (1:6-8, 13-14) Beloved: I remind you to stir into lame the gift of God that you have through the imposition of my hands. So do not be ashamed of your testimony to our Lord, nor of me, a prisoner for His sake; but bear your share of hardship for the Gospel with the strength that comes from God. Take as your

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norm the sound words that you heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. Guard this rich trust with the help of the Holy Spirit that dwells within us

Re lection Saint Paul said to Timothy :do not be ashamed of your testimony to our Lord. We should not be ashamed of our story to the Lord, for in every story of our life Jesus is always a part of it. In every situation in our life , Jesus gives us a gift of wisdom, blessing, understanding, strength and learnings. And through this gifts, he enables us to share it to others, to take lead in inspiring them, to take lead to be the spark in their life and lead them to follow Jesus. We keep the gift ablaze by not letting our spiritual selves grow cold or, worse, and lukewarm. We stir up the gift by not quenching or neglecting the gift of God, instead we are called to become instruments of God to lead others in seeing the light of Jesus. The Holy Spirit gives us the power to lead and be a minister to others, and with our sincere faith in Jesus Christ, we must use this spiritual gift by actively using it in serving the Lord.

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What makes you feel lukewarm in your spiritual drive to lead others?

How do I remind myself to kindle afresh the lame, the gift of God in me?

Let us pray…

O Holy Apostles, Peter and Paul, obtain for me, I pray to you, lively faith, irm hope, and burning love; complete detachment from myself, contempt of the world, patience in adversity, humility in prosperity, attention in prayer, purity of heart, a right intention in all my works, diligence in ful illing the duties of my state of life, constancy in my resolutions, resignation to the will of God and perseverance in the grace of God even unto death; that so, by means of your intercession and your glorious merits, I may be able to overcome the temptations of the world, the lesh and the devil, and may be made worthy to appear before the chief and eternal Shepherd of souls, Jesus Christ, Who with the Father and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns for endless ages, to enjoy His presence and love Him forever. Amen.

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NINTH CHURCH - GIFTED TO BE OPEN TO GOD’S GRACE

SAN FELIPE NERI CHURCH San Felipe Neri Parish

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he San Felipe Neri Parish is 158 years old and one of the oldest churches in the Archdiocese of Manila. The parish was carved out of Sta. Ana de Sapa by virtue of a decree Royal Pastrono dated September 15, 1863. In October 30 of that same year, San Felipe Neri Parish was canonically established and its territory includes Pueblo de San Felipe (now Mandaluyong City) and San Juan del Monte (now San Juan City). In 1892, San Juan del Monte was ecclesiastically separated. The present church site of almost a hectare was purchased in 1870 by the Franciscan Fathers from the Augustinian Fathers. The cornerstone was blessed on March 25, 1870 under the title “La Purisima Concepcion”. It was only in 1883 that the present church stone structure was constructed. The Catholic cemetery was established in 1875. The Catholic school was established in 1963.

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Ever since, the parish church has become the source of spiritual nourishment for the people of Mandaluyong as it witnessed its spiritual growth and physical development.

Five new parishes and one archdiocesan shrine were carved out of San Felipe Neri Parish namely: Sacred Heart (1951), San Roque (1971), Our Lady of Fatima (1974), Our Lady of the Abandoned (1981), St. Dominic Savio (1988); and the Archdiocesan Shrine of Divine Mercy (1990’s).

Reading From the Book of the Prophet Isaiah (61:1-3) The spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me; He has sent me to bring good news to the a licted, to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, release to the prisoners, to announce a year of favor from the Lord and a day of vindication by our God; to comfort all who mourn; to place on those who mourn in Zion a diadem instead of ashes, to give them oil of gladness instead of mourning, a glorious mantle instead of a faint spirit.

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Re lection Saint Felipe Neri in his days never experienced a real-deal hardship in life. His father was a lawyer, and his mother’s family was in luential in their state. His relatives were businessmen. He is intelligent, sporty, neatly dressed. A topnotch brand of a husband to be.

But a mere conversation about religion changed his perspective on everything. Parang may kumalabit lang sa kanya, at sa isang pitik ng daliri bumaling at tumugon na walang alinlangan.

He went to Rome to further his studies. Immerse himself to the poor and the sick. He went to minister to the prostitutes in the city. Lived as a layman in Rome, but never thought of becoming a priest, but eventually, he was ordained. In his priesthood, he was deeply involved with the Church while seeking to reform a corrupt Rome and an indi erent clergy and instituted the Congregation of the Oratory.

Saint Felipe’s giftedness of being acquainted with what was going on in the world, taking a real interest in it, giving and getting information, opens his perspective to the greater value of happiness that is to serve God. God's invitation for us to have a better and greater life is undying. Regardless of

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our status in the society, where we are, and despite the many challenges we are experiencing, it is there all the time, we just need to embrace it.

People seek their happiness, satisfaction of ful illment in this world. But what is it to be truly satis ied and happy?

What are your perimeters in saying that you're living a wonderful life?

In your most challenging time in life, can we say that God permitted them, and made them His way of getting you to have a life with greater value? How can you de ine, “life with a greater value”?

In this time of the pandemic, how can we say that God's hand is working?

People are terri ied, people are in fear, depressed because of being alone, con ined inside with the four walls of their room due to strict implementation of the covid protocols, and can no longer do the things that they usually do – things that make them valuable, and the things that they value most. Livelihood, commerce is down and is only relying on what the government provides. But did we truly acquainted ourselves with what is happening in this world today? How do we respond if we are to wear our mask, is it in fear or in faith that someday this pandemic will end soon. Our faith says that God gifted us with so many

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talents, but are we making use of them conscientiously and responsibly?

Let us pray…

O holy Saint Philip Neri, Patron Saint of Joy, you who trusted Scripture's promise that the Lord is always at hand and that we need not have anxiety about anything, in your compassion heal our worries and sorrows and lift the burdens from our hearts.

We come to you as one whose heart swells with abundant love for God and all creation. Hear us, we pray, especially in these needs: (Mention your intentions.)

Keep us safe through your loving intercession, and may the joy of the Holy Spirit which illed your heart, Saint Philip transform our lives and bring us peace. Amen.

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PINAGLABANAN CHURCH Saint John the Baptist Parish

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rior to having a parish of its own, the local area of San Juan was part of the Sta. Ana Parish in Manila for some 300 years. Later on in 1863, it became part of the San Felipe Neri Parish in Mandaluyong, a ilial parish from the womb of Sta. Ana. Fittingly, the town and church of San Juan delivered the irst blows to force the birth of the Philippine Independence. The irst actual combat on August 30, 1896 between the Spaniards and the Katipuneros took place in San Juan, more speci ically on what is now known as Pinaglabanan Road. Despite the passions of the war, the church itself was left undesecrated; its pastor unharmed, indeed, accorded due respect with the rite and rituals

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TENTH CHURCH - GIFTED TO CONSOLE

observed and attended by the parishioners with not a single report of harassment surfacing in extant documents.

In May 3, 1942, the ilial parish of Santuario del Santo Cristo of the Dominican Order was born from the womb of its mother parish, San Juan Bautista. Few more years after, two more ilial parishes were born, the Santuario de San Jose in April 19, 1967, which was conceded to the administration of the Oblates of St. Joseph the Patriarch; and Mary the Queen Parish in November 21, 1979, which came into being as a result of the need to minister to the speci ic sector of the town resided dominantly by families of Chinese ancestry.

On July 6, 1989, the St. John the Baptist Parish Church gained o icial public recognition as a historical landmark, through the passage of Municipal Order No. 63 sponsored by Councilor Jose Alvior and signed by Mayor Adolfo Sto. Domingo.

To date, St. John the Baptist Parish through the auspice leadership and guidance of former parish priests, Fr. Frank Ungria, Msgr. Nestor C. Cerbo and now Msgr. Vicente D. Bauson, continues to serve the community of San Juan, by empowering the laity especially the youth to be actively involved in the pastoral evangelization mission of the

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Church and instilling in them a new way of Catholic life with its Basic Ecclesial Communities (BEC).

Reading From the holy gospel according to Matthew (14:1-12) At that time Herod the ruler heard reports about Jesus; and he said to his servants, "This is John the Baptist; he has been raised from the dead, and for this reason these powers are at work in him." For Herod had arrested John, bound him, and put him in prison on account of Herodias, his brother Philip's wife, because John had been telling him, "It is not lawful for you to have her." Though Herod wanted to put him to death, he feared the crowd, because they regarded him as a prophet. But when Herod's birthday came, the daughter of Herodias danced before the company, and she pleased Herod so much that he promised on oath to grant her whatever she might ask.

Prompted by her mother, she said, "Give me the head of John the Baptist here on a platter." The king was grieved, yet out of regard for his oaths and for the guests, he commanded it to be given; he sent and had John

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beheaded in the prison. The head was brought on a platter and given to the girl, who brought it to her mother. His disciples came and took the body and buried it; then they went and told Jesus.

Re lection John the Baptist was famous even before and during the time of Jesus. He was well-known for baptizing those who wished to repent and received forgiveness of their sins. More than his popularity, he baptized Jesus Christ. He is considered the precursor or forerunner of Jesus. The one who prepared the way of the Lord.

But what led him to die in a brutal way if he was a famous baptizer? He was condemned to death because he spoke of the truth without fear. John the Baptist condemned Herod Antipas for divorcing his wife and unlawfully taking Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip I. John the Baptist preached the truth and it made him famous.

We have a lot of famous people nowadays. Famous in di erent ways. Some are famous for telling the truth even if it hurts them or may cause harm and even death. Others

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Let us speak the truth even if it kills the body, for it is the way of the Lord as what John the Baptist did. We also ight for the truth!

How do you discover and proclaim truths in everyday life?

What are the instances that seem that seeking truth is compromised? What is God telling you in those situations?

What primary truth about yourself that you live out and are willing to die for?

Let us pray…

God, our Father, you sent Saint John the Baptist to prepare the way of Your beloved Son, our Lord Jesus Christ in order for people to recognize the Savior of the world. Lord, it is hard sometime to believe that You are really present in this world of ours, but I do believe in it, Lord. Please help me live my life in such a way, that it will be easier for others to

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also are famous for manipulating things that appear to be seemingly true. Some others who remain silent about the truth, it kills John the Baptist as a model for truth seekers.

I entrust myself to his intercession. We ask You these through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Saint John the Baptist, pray for us.

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recognize You. When I ind doubt, help me bring a little light. When I ind discouragement, let me be a ray of hope in the darkness. To those who feel estranged and alienated from You and Your church, let me be as a bridge. When I meet those who had been hurt and feel misunderstood, help me live only the imprint of Your healing love and compassion. Lord, wherever I go and to whomsoever I meet, help me to be an instrument of Your peace. Grant me the petition I beg of you… (Mention your intentions)

ELEVENTH CHURCH - GIFTED TO UNDERSTAND

SAN AGUSTIN CHURCH Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Correa (Immaculate Conception Parish)

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he Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of La Consolacion Y Correa, Immaculate Conception Parish – San Agustin Church is a Roman Catholic shrine and parish church under the administration of the Order of Saint Augustine located within the walls of Intramuros, Manila. It was founded on May 19, 1571, but was o icially recognized by Miguel Lopez de Legazpi on June 24, 1571. San Agustin served as the headquarters of the Augustinian Province of the Most Holy Name of Jesus of the Philippines of Spain from 1575 to 1901, and then again from 1927 to 1945. The church is a silent witness to some of the key events in the country, such as the Manila Interdict of September 1635, the British Invasion of Manila in November 1762, the Surrender of the Spanish Forces in August 1898, and the Second World War in February 1945.

It became the parish church of Intramuros in 1945 after the Parroquia del Sagrario of the Cathedral

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was destroyed in the war. The image of Our Lady of Consolation, Patroness of the Augustinian Order venerated in this church was canonically crowned on September 4, 2000.

The devotion to Our Lady of Consolation, the Principal Patroness of the Order of Saint Augustine, was brought to the Philippines by the Augustinian Friars, the irst missionaries who systematically evangelized this country, when they arrived in the Philippine archipelago on the 28th of April, 1565. The veneration and cult of Our Lady of Consolation at San Agustin Church is as old as the church itself. This present church is the fourth church where the Our Lady of Consolation is enshrined. This image of the Virgin Mary has been enshrined at her own chapel on the south transept of this church from time immemorial.

The devotion to this advocation resulted in many pious foundations, through which donations and many other bene it works were extended by its members to the unfortunate classes of society.

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From the holy gospel according to Matthew (23:8-12) Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples, "But you are not to be called rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you are all students. And call no one your father on earth, for you have one Father--the one in heaven. Nor are you to be called instructors, for you have one instructor, the Messiah.

The greatest among you will be your servant. All who exalt themselves will be humbled, and all who humble themselves will be exalted.”

Re lection There are many questions we ask ourselves that we simply cannot answer. There are questions that follow us from morning to night, from week to week, from moment to moment. And some questions are really crisis questions.

Life is surrounded by many mysteries. How do we deal with these mysteries? How do we devise solutions? How do we try to understand? How do we gain peace of mind?

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When we are faced with questions, do we turn to God? We are invited to go to prayer, where Jesus meets us and speaks to us. In prayer we can bring all our questions, our fears, our hurts. God is waiting for us and inviting us to experience our weakness so that later on he can transform them into strength.

It is all right to ask questions. There is a time for questions from the heart, that which longs for understanding. We, too, can ask our questions for clarity. The answers will surely come. Some will get it soon. Some will have to wait some more. But God will not disappoint. Let us o er to the Lord our questions and our desire for understanding. We will have our answers, too.

How will I use the gift of understanding this Jubilee Year?

How will I share to other people my understanding of God’s love?

Let us pray…

O holy Saint Augustine, who has famously declared that “Our hearts were made for you, O Lord, and they are restless until they rest in you.”, aid me in my own search for our Lord that through your intercession I may be granted the wisdom to determine the purpose God has planned for me. Pray that I be blessed with the courage to

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follow God’s will even at times when I do not understand.

Ask our Lord to lead me to a life worthy of His love, that I may one day share the riches of His kingdom. Petition our Lord and Savior to ease the burden of my problems and grant my special intention, and I will honor you all of my days.

Beloved Saint Augustine the miracles you have performed for the greater glory of God have caused people to seek your intercession for their most pressing concerns. Hear my cries as I invoke your name to petition God for an increased faith and to aid me in my present distress. (State the special favor you seek) Glorious Saint Augustine I boldly ask for your intercession con ident in your boundless wisdom and compassion. May this devotion lead me to a life dedicated to the ful illing the will of God that I may one day be deemed worthy of sharing His Kingdom with you and all the saints for all eternity. Amen.

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TWELFTH CHURCH - GIFTED TO SACRIFICE

BINONDO CHURCH Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz (Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish)

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opularly known as Binondo Church, the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz was established by the Dominicans in 1596 and initially dedicated to Saint Gabriel the Archangel who became Binondo’s patron until the mid-19th century. It is also known as Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish as it venerates the Blessed Virgin Mary as Binondo’s patroness from the early 1600s up to the present.

The church became the center of the then newly-created arrabal or village of Binondo which former Governor General Luis Perez Dasmariñas created as a gift for Sangleys or Chinese of Parian and Baybay (the present-day Tondo) who converted to Christianism. It is also here that Filipino protomartyr Lorenzo Ruiz shaped his Christian faith as he worked as altar server, sacristan and

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The current church is the sixth structure since 1596 as its previous buildings were either severely damaged or totally destroyed by earthquakes, ires and armed con licts brought by foreign invaders for the past four centuries.

The Binondo Church that we are all familiar with was inished in 1985 after decades of rehabilitation since 1946, two years after it was ravaged by ire during the September 22, 1944 bombing of downtown Manila.

The historic beati ication and canonization of San Lorenzo Ruiz has become a huge blessing for the church that he once considered as spiritual home. On July 23, 1992, His Holiness Pope John Paul II granted Binondo Church the title of “minor basilica” in honor of the irst Filipino saint. It is the 10th minor basilica in the Philippines and the 4th in the Archdiocese of Manila.

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escribano before his fateful journey and death in Japan on September 28, 1637.

Reading From the holy gospel according to Matthew (10:24-33) A disciple is not above the teacher, nor a slave above the master; it is enough for the disciple to be like the teacher, and the slave like the master. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebul, how much more will they malign those of his household! 'So have no fear of them; for nothing is covered up that will not be uncovered, and nothing secret that will not become known. What I say to you in the dark, tell in the light; and what you hear whispered, proclaim from the housetops. Do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul; rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground unperceived by your Father. And even the hairs of your head are all counted. So do not be afraid; you are of more value than many sparrows. 'Everyone therefore who acknowledges me before others, I also will acknowledge

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before my Father in heaven; but whoever denies me before others, I also will deny before my Father in heaven'.

Re lection Every day we have the choice to o er our bodies as living sacri ices to God. The Lord doesn’t force His children to obey Him; rather He longs for us to choose His ways over our own desires. Our sacri ice of living for Jesus on a daily basis in spite of the temptations, trials, and tragedies of life encourages investment of sacri ice with an eternity of rewards. Just like San Lorenzo Ruiz who su ered from various torture and trials but yet he still holds on to your words and he sacri ice his life for You. Help us, O Lord, to do the same, embracing our sacri ices over our own desire. Teach us to have contended on the life that we have rather than giving to some temptations. Bless all the people who do some work of sacri ices over their own life just to help and show some care. Guide us and give us light to show the way on how we can lead you to the right path.

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What sacri ices can I o er to the other people who need my help?

Am I capable to let go of my possession to others over my own desire?

What does it mean to be a living sacri ice?

Let us pray…

O God, our loving Father, your Son Jesus Christ delivered Himself in sacri ice to you for the love of humanity, inspire us to love You with all our heart to the point of sacri ice.

Your providential hand led Your servant, Saint Lorenzo Ruiz and Companions, to the land of Japan to imitate the sacri ice of Christ and to proclaim the Gospel of truth and the message of salvation.

We humbly beseech You, through the intercession of these Holy Martyrs, that we be given the grace of remaining faithful to You always as they did: that the light of the Gospel illumine all corners of our Christian motherland and of all countries near and far for Your greater honor and glory, and our sancti ication. We ask You this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

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San Lorenzo Ruiz and Companions, pray for us.

Hymn: Here in this place (Music Video) Are not our hearts burning within us?

Are not our lives shared as one bread?

Here in our hands, here in this place, Jesus our hope, life from the dead.

In the breaking of the bread, May we know the Lord.

We were lost and now are found.

Home again with God. You are food for all our hunger, You are all we need.

You are our promise and our hope, Life for the world.

As this bread is broken, As this cup is shared, We give our lives, broken and outpoured, We will serve the Lord.

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FAITH SHARING 1. What are the gifts that I have discovered in my faith life that I am willing to give to others?

2. What is the most meaningful for me as I journey in faith through this virtual pilgrimage?

3. What are the graces that I will bring forward from this virtual pilgrimage to concretely live out my faith?

INTERCESSION Prayer Leader: As we come together as pilgrim people re lecting our gifts to share, with con idence, let us ask God to be with us and to continue guiding us towards faith and life. For every petition we shall say: Loving Father, lead us to Your Ways.

1. Father all-powerful, you made yourself the guide and the way for your people as they wandered in the desert; be our protection especially in times of uncertainty and trials through the Blessed Virgin Mary, so that we may be led to Christ, your Son. For this we pray…

2. You have given us your only Son to be our way to You; make us follow Him faithfully and unswervingly despite life’s di iculty. For this we pray…

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3.You guide your pilgrim Church on earth through the Holy Spirit; may we seek you in all things and walk always in the way of your commandments. For this we pray…

4.You gave us Mary and all the Saints as the images and models for following Christ; grant that through their examples we may live a new life under your grace. For this we pray…

5. You lead us along right and peaceful paths; grant that we may one day see you face to face in heaven. For this we pray…

6. In the silence of our hearts, let bring to God all our intentions…

Prayer Leader: At the Savior’s command and formed by divine teaching, we dare to say: Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.

Amen.

CLOSING PRAYER Lord Jesus Christ, the door to the Kingdom of God, the sheep gate to the eternal life, the Way, the Truth, and the Life. As we have visited the sacred places, draw us more

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deeply into Your presence and the wonders of Your love for us. We thank You, Lord, for the gift of faith brought to our beloved land ive hundred years ago. Help us persevere in fruitful penance, faith that does justice and sincere charity, and lead us to a more fervent living out of the faith. You who live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.

LASALLIAN PRAYER I will continue, O my God, to do all my actions for the love of You. Mary, Our Lady of the Star, pray for us.

Saint John Baptist de La Salle, pray for us.

Saint Benilde Romançon, pray for us.

Live, Jesus, in our hearts. Forever!

CLOSING SONG We stand before the grand horizon 500 years of faith, grateful today We bear the gift of mission Totally yours, we give ourselves Faithfully yours until the end To your mission, Lord We give our yes!

Go where the sun rises above the hills

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Share the word and serve those who are in need Let the morning star accompany your way Spread the ire of mission for the Lord We are gifted to give and live our gifts Mercy, compassion, justice and peace The sign the world today will come to believe Is the love we have for one and all We bear the gift of mission Mercy, compassion, justice and peace To your mission, Lord!

To your mission, Lord!

We give our yes!

We give our yes!

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REFERENCES 1. https://rcam.org/ archdiocesanshrineofnuestrasenoradeguiaparish/aboutus/ 2. Wikipedia contributors. (n.d.). Tondo Church. Wikipedia.

Retrieved May 30, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/ wiki/Tondo_Church 3. adminbdmc (2019, August 23). The Archdiocesan Shrine of Santo Niño De Tondo / Tondo Church.

4. https://bluedreamer27.com/archdiocesan-shrine-santonino-de-tondo-tondo-church/. Accessed on May 30, 2021.

5. Mendoza, R. M. (2005). History of Sto. Nino de Tondo Parish Church. The Many Faces of Tondo Parish.

6. http://www.manila-map.com/parish_history.html.

Accessed on May 30, 2021.

7. https://sites.google.com/site/ sanpabloapostolparishtondo/Home Accessed on May 30, 2021/9:06PM 8. https://www.sacredspace.ie/node/186387 Accessed on May 30, 2021/9:20PM

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9. Cruz, Joan Carroll. Relics: "The Shroud of Turin, the True Cross, the Blood of Januarius : History, Mysticism, and the Catholic Church." Our Sunday Visitor: Huntington, Indiana. 1984.

10. Donovan, Stephen M., "St. Clare of Montefalco". In Herbermann, Charles (ed.). Catholic Encyclopedia. New York: Robert Appleton Company, 1913.

11. "History of the Sta. Clara de Montefalco Parish", Retrieved from https:// santaclarademontefalcoparishpasay.weebly.com/ about.html on August 12, 2019.

12. Malabanan, J. (2017, December 12). Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe de Makati - Makati's Heavenly Pro-Life Protectress. Retrieved from https:// pintakasi1521.blogspot.com/2017/12/nuestra-senora-deguadalupe-de-makati.html 13. Pro-Life Bible Verses. (n.d.). Retrieved from https:// www.whatchristianswanttoknow.com/24-pro-life-bibleverses/#ixzz6wQ4cSrj5 14. Guadalupe: Catholic prayers, Prayers to mary, Faith prayer. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.pinterest.ph/ pin/423197696234584105/ 15. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ San_Pedro_Macati_Church#History 72

16. https://traveleronfoot.wordpress.com/tag/nuestrasenora-de-la-rosa/ 17. https://www.theurbanroamer.com/st-peter-and-paulchurch-makati/ 18. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Binondo_Church (May 27, 2021) 19. https://rcam.org/minorbasilicaofsanlorenzoruiz/aboutus/ (May 27, 2021) 20. https://mediakron.bc.edu/edges/2019-midterm-projects/ binondo/minor-basilica-of-saint-lorenzo-ruiz (May 27, ) 21. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lorenzo_Ruiz (May 27, 2021) 22. https://www.vigattintourism.com/tourism/articles/MinorBasilica-of-St-Lorenzo-Ruiz-BinondoChurch#:~:text=Also%20known%20as%20the%20Minor,r efusing%20to%20renounce%20his%20religio 23. https://www.whatchristianswanttoknow.com/7important-bible-verses-about-sacri ice/#ixzz6wF19cqAq (May 27 24. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ San_Pedro_Macati_Church#History May 26, 2021 25. https://traveleronfoot.wordpress.com/tag/nuestrasenora-de-la-rosa/ May 26, 2021

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26. https://www.theurbanroamer.com/st-peter-and-paulchurch-makati/ May 26, 2021 27. https://www.catholicdigest.com/faith/prayer/ iveprayers-for-the-solemnity-of-sts-peter-and-paul/ May 26, 2021 28. Quiapo Church - St. John the Baptist Church. (2020, October 30). About.

29. https://www.rcam.org/quiapochurch/about/ 30. Quiapo Church (Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene).

(2014). Vigattin Tourism (ARTICLES) - Philippines.

31. https://www.vigattintourism.com/tourism/articles/ Quiapo-Church-Minor- Basilica-of-the-Black-Nazarene 32. https://mb.com.ph/2021/04/12/prayer-for-pilgrimsvisiting-jubilee-churches-in-the-archdiocese-of-manilareleased/ Accessed on July 11, 2021

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Center for Lasallian Ministry De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde

GIFTED TO GIVE A Benilde Virtual Pilgrimage on the Occasion of the Celebration of the 500 Years of Christianity in the Philippines

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