Sinagtala Volume 4 Issue 1

The Official Newsletter of the Our Lady of Hope Parish

Volume 4 Issue 1 • Sep 2023 - Jan 2024

A Shrine of Mary, A Shrine of Hope

OLHP journeys into shrinehood, unveils 4-phase upgrade plan

OLHP parish priest Fr. Raymond Joseph Arre announced to the public the intention of the parish to become a shrine as a preparation for the Catholic Church’s upcoming Jubilee Year 2025 Pilgrims of Hope.

This initiative, revealed during his homily last December 16, emphasizes the collective dream of becoming a Shrine of Mary, propagating the devotion to Our Lady of Hope.

FRA also presented the parish redevelopment program which aims to solve the long-time flooding problem and the worn-out ceiling of the parish church. It will make sure that our church is a fitting place to worship God and be a Diocesan Shrine in honor of Mary, Mother of hope.

Targeted to start in the second quarter of 2024, phase one of the

parish renovations will focus on the altar and sanctuary. Phase two will construct the ceiling and flooring, while phases three and four will be on the facade and perimeter wall improvements, respectively.

The project is expected to be finished by January 2025 with a total estimated cost of thirty (30) million pesos.

Nicko Gabriel Gonzales

First-ever Sunday school ng parokya, magaganap na!

Sa unang bahagi ng taong 2024 ay sisimulan ng Formation Ministry ang programang “ABKD: Aral, Basa, Kanta, Dasal Hope Sunday School: Halina’t mag-ABKD sa Parokya!” Sa mahigit na limampung taon na pagkakatatag, ito ang kauna-unahang Sunday School, sa kasaysayan ng Our Lady of Hope Parish

Layunin ng aktibidad na ito na turuan ang mga mag-aaral ng elementarya sa pagdarasal, at mamulat sa pagiging Katolikong Kristiyano. Mahahati sa dalawang pangkat ang nasabing aktibidad

kung saan magkakasama sa unang grupo ang mga nasa una hanggang ikatlong baitang. Ito ay paghahanda para sa kanilang pagtanggap ng First Communion. Sa ikalawang pangkat naman ay nakatipon ang mga nasa ika-apat hanggang ika-anim na baitang, bilang paghahanda para sa kanilang pagtanggap ng Sakramento ng Kumpil. Tatagal ng isa hanggang dalawang oras ang bawat session kada linggo, sa loob ng isang taon.

Ang Formation Ministry, kasama ng Catechetical Ministry ang mangunguna para maisagawa

nang matagumpay ang naturang proyekto. Nananawagan naman ang pamunuan ng mga nasabing organisasyon sa mga nagnanais na tumulong bilang guro at tagapagsalita upang maibahagi ang kanilang oras, talento at talino para turuan ang mga kabataan. Tumatanggap din ang pamunuan ng mga donasyon na mga school supplies at iba pang kagamitan ng mga mag-aaral. Sa mga interesado, maaring makipagugnayan sa Formation Ministry Coordinator na si Sis. Minette Zapanta sa 0917 710 1123 para sa mga detalye.

OLHP celebrates the

Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ

Raven Pilar

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” - Hebrews 13:8

The Solemnity of our Lord Jesus Christ, The King of the Universe was celebrated last November 26, 2023 with a series of sacred activities throughout the day.

The solemn commemoration started with a Holy Hour at 2:00 pm, led by the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Raymond Joseph Arre. At 3:00 pm, a motorcade procession took place that weaved through the community. The procession made significant stops at designated prayer stations. The stations included Kubol 1 of the Acayan Family (Road 1), followed by Kubol 2 of the Alcoy Family (Road 1), and Kubol 3 of the Cernechez Family (Road 1). After the procession, the

Benediction took place at 4:00 pm. The day concluded with a Holy Mass at 5:00pm presided by the newly appointed Parochial Vicar, Rev. Fr. Julius Callanga.

In celebrating the kingship of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, we declare to the world that he is Supreme and the center of our lives. This feast serves as a reminder of His Incarnation as the one true Son of God, and that in His Being, humanity and divinity are coexisting. A spiritually enlightening day of strong religious observance, appreciation, and communal togetherness that left a lasting mark on everyone who participated in this celebration.

Ely Maneja

[From Top] Motorcade procession led by FRA, Fr. Julius, and Fr. Dick, and FRA holding the Blessed Eucharist during the Holy Hour

Hatid Pagasa continues around QC

Lilia SD. Raflores

The last leg of the Hatid Pagasa Project of the Our Lady of Hope Parish for 2023 was held last August 4 to September 29, 2023. The image of Our Lady of Hope went to five government offices, namely: Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration or PAGASA (August 4-11), Department of Interior and Local Government or DILG (August 16-23), Anti Red Tape Authority (September 8-15), Bureau of Fire Protection or BFP (September 11-15), and the National Housing Authority or NHA (September 22-29).

As in previous visits, Our Lady of Hope was well-received and appreciated in these offices, and the masses were well attended. At the Anti Red Tape Authority office (ARTA),

Secretary Atty. Ernesto V. Perez joined the mass which the agency shared to all of its regional offices nationwide via livestream, providing a wider reach for the Hatid Pagasa Project. Some Undersecretaries, Assistant Secretaries, and Department Heads of DILG, BFP and NHA were also present during their masses. At BFP, daily masses were held allowing more people to visit and pray to the Blessed Mother. Flowers were also offered by the grateful PAGASA employees upon departure of OLH from their office.

The history of the apparition of OLH was explained in all the visits. The members of the Association of Our Lady of Hope (AOLH) distributed novena booklets, OLH stampitas and Stories of Hope to the mass goers to

EDITORIAL BOARD

Anne Raever Benavidez EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Nicko Gabriel Gonzales ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Samantha Marielle Mojica MANAGING EDITOR

Monica Gatbonton NEWS EDITOR

Ascencion de la Cuesta FEATURES EDITOR

Reginald Dickson Dequilla LAYOUT EDITOR

Rose Mascariña Olwencie de Claro

Raven Pilar

Lilia Raflores

Judith Regine Santos

Ruther Charles Dagami

Elyver Maneja

Mark Hendrix Sison

Kathrina Ortiz

Sylvester Lumbao

Dana Austria

Gritchelle Geronimo

Arah Jodelle Jamandra

Rev. Fr. Julius Callanga WRITERS / CONTRIBUTORS

Bro. Arnold Divina ADVISER

Rev. Fr. Raymond Joseph Arre PARISH PRIEST

olhp.newsletter@gmail.com 09959475227

encourage them to continue with the devotion.

For the first half of 2024, Hatid Pagasa will go to at least one parish church in each of the six Vicariates within the Diocese of Cubao. Initially, the following parishes were identified to be visited: Basilica Minore de Santuario de San Pedro Bautista, San Nicolas de Tolentino Parish, Sta. Rita de Cascia Parish, Transfiguration of Our Lord Parish, St. Joseph Shrine and Holy Family Parish.

Bureau of Fire Protection Officers with Fr. Raymond Tapia pose with OLH image

AOLH members with ARTA Secretary Atty. Ernesto V. Perez

Serenitas: Embracing tranquility in eternal remembrance

Gritchelle Geronimo

October 28, 2023 — In a momentous event that marks the intersection of faith, architecture, and remembrance, Our Lady of Hope Parish Church proudly unveiled its newest addition—the Serenitas Columbarium. Aptly named after the Latin word for serenity, Serenitas stands as a testament to the parish’s commitment to providing a tranquil resting place for departed loved ones.

The recently inaugurated Serenitas Columbarium, designed by Architect Jilli Gomez and headed by the Parish Facilities and Improvement Group offers not just a final resting place but a sanctuary of peace and beauty. Lola Medz, one of our parishioners, reflected on the 22-year journey where her mother’s ashes were placed in their home. She shared, “Nagkaroon tayo ng unang columbarium pero hindi ko sya nilagay. Pero ngayon sa Serenitas, napag-isip-isip namin, panahon na para ilagay ko ang aking Ima dito. Iba po, napakaganda dito sa Serenitas. Ibang klase, maliwanag at mararamdaman mo na magiging safe ang iyong mga mahal sa buhay na makalagak na dito.”

Mimi Miciano also shared her

personal journey of bringing her mother back to a place closer to their hearts. She explained that her mother passed away in 2016 and was buried in Masbate but they decided to cremate her body last August. The columbarium was referred to her by Rev. Fr. Raymond Tapia and they thought that “It’s closer, practical, and aesthetic, so immediately, we decided to get a space.”

A third owner, who sadly lost her sister in August 2023 because of kidney failure shared that before her sister’s passing and even during the construction and pre-selling of the columbarium, her sister expressed her wish to be laid to rest in Serenitas

Rev. Fr. Raymond Arre (FRA),

during his homily in the opening of the Serenitas Columbarium reiterated that a columbarium is a reminder for each one of us of our final resting place.

“In the tranquil halls of a columbarium, we find not just a sanctuary for the departed loved ones but a gentle reminder that life is a fleeting gift. Each niche, a testament to the promise of Jesus, whispers the truth that we are merely passing through. In the meticulous planning and spiritual embrace of Serenitas Columbarium, families discover a haven of peace—a sacred space where remembrance intertwines with solace, and the eternal echoes in the delicate dance of fleeting moments”

Most. Rev. Honesto F. Ongtioco, Rev. Fr. Jun Pascual, Rev. Fr. Raymond Arre, Rev. Fr. Julius Callanga, open and bless the Serenitas Columbarium

PPCRV nakiisa sa Barangay Election

Naging matagumpay at mapayapa ang naganap na eleksyon para sa Sangguniang Barangay at Sangguniang Kabataan noong ika30 ng Oktubre sa Bagong Pag-asa Elementary School. Malaki ang naitulong ng Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting o PPCRV upang maisagawa ang iba’t ibang aktibidad, sa basbas ng ating Kura Paroko na si Reberendo Padre Raymond Arre at sa pamumuno ni Bro. Rommel Regaya.

Nanguna si Chinggay Bilaos sa botohan bilang Kapitana ng Baranggay Bagong Pag-asa. Kasama niya sa konseho ang pitong kagawad na sina Ed Alcoy, Shin-shin

Mark Hendrix Sison

Bilaos, Ricky Bajarias, Dino Fortuno, Mike Canceran, Danny Benzon, at Neil Navarro. Sa sangguniang kabataan naman, nakamit ni Ishi Mabini ang pagkapanalo bilang SK

Chairman.

Ang OLHP PPCRV para sa taong ito ay may 35 volunteers.

Tree of Hope bears fruits of thanksgiving and generosity

Volunteers and recipients of the 2023 Tree of Hope Media Noche packages together with Rev. Fr. Raymond Joseph Arre

In the spirit of sharing and thanksgiving, the Social Services and Development Ministry (SSDM) of our parish headed by Sis. Cecille Perias spearheaded this year’s Tree of Hope last December 2, 2023 that aims to share Media Noche packages to the parishioners that are in need.

Both the Our Lady of Hope Parish and the Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Chapel featured “Trees of Hope” with ornaments that contained specific food items such as canned

goods, juice, pasta, etc., to be offered during the masses in the Advent season.

Right after Christmas, volunteers from various parish ministries joined together to assemble and pack the donated food items. On December 28, members of the pamayanan gathered inside the parish and more than 320 parishioners were able to receive gift bags. Rev. Fr. Raymond Joseph Arre, parish priest, joined the distribution of the gift bags and imparted some

messages to the recipients. He said,

“Huwag na ninyong hintayin na may magmahal sa inyo, ang mahalaga ay ang pagmamahal na naibabahagi ninyo.”

Nicko Gabriel Gonzales

Mga boluntaryo ng PPCRV bago magsimula ang pagbibilang ng boto

Liturgical servers undergo formation and commissioning

The Renewal Formation of Lay Liturgical ministers was held at Mary Mother of Hope Chapel, Trinoma Mall in August 2023 (5 for Lectors, 12 for Lay Ministers and Altar Servers, and 19 for Greeters). The Basic Orientation Seminar on the other hand, was held at Our Lady of Most Holy Rosary Chapel, SM North EDSA on September 2, 2023 both spearheaded by the Diocesan Ministry of Liturgical Affairs (DMLA). There were a total of 257 commissioned members (Ministry of Lectors and Commentators, 55; Ministry of Altar Servers, 35; Extraordinary Ministers of the Holy Communion, 54; Greeters and Collectors, 38; Music Ministry 50; and Mother Butler Guild, 25) that was held at Our Lady of Hope Parish, presided over by our parish priest, Rev. Fr. Raymond Joseph Arre and guest priest, Rev. Fr. Mars Oabel.

Dana Camille Austria

During the commissioning, participants are called and presented before the congregation, symbolizing their commitment to serve as ambassadors of faith. The laying of hands and the invocation of the Holy Spirit impart a divine blessing, empowering individuals to carry out their ministries with grace, wisdom, and unwavering faith.

The implementation of a renewal formation program for liturgical servers is essential for the ongoing vibrancy and effectiveness of these crucial roles within the Catholic Church. By focusing on spiritual renewal, intellectual formation, and practical skills development, church leaders can nurture a community of dedicated individuals who are not only well-equipped for their roles but are also deeply rooted in their

faith and committed to the service of God and the Church. Through such programs, the Church can ensure that its ministries continue to inspire and uplift the worship experience for all its members.

In the spirit of renewal and formation, the participants were reminded of the timeless wisdom of an ancient proverb: “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17).

In the tapestry of our faith, may this proverb be a guiding light, reminding the servers that their collective journey is both a blessing and a responsibility—a continuous, reciprocal sharpening that enriches the entire fabric of shared spiritual story.

Greeters and Collectors offer donations during their Commissioning

Newly renewed Altar Servers, together with Rev. Fr. Mars Oabel

Extraordinary Ministers of the Holy Communion, with FRA Ministry of Lectors and Commentators, with Rev. Fr. Mars Oabel

SSDM propels social development

Rose Mascariña

Social Service and Development Ministry (SSDM), the pastoral arm of the parish charged with the mission of responding to the socio-economic needs of the the less fortunate by finding ways and sustainable means to help alleviate poverty and improve their living conditions launched various programs to assist our parishioners in need.

Bantay Kalusugan, in cooperation with St. Dominic Diagnostic and Medical Center, served 146 patients at the Barangay Covered Court on September 9, 2023. Services offered include blood chemistry, ECG, X-ray, eye check up, and more.

Another project launched is Dasal Almusal that was held on September

16, 2023, with 30 street sweepers at the Barangay covered court. Sis. Baby Padilla gave the catechism about the Holy Trinity to the attendees and hot soup and pandesal were served by SSDM members.

The launching of the Tanglaw Pag-asa, a livelihood candle making training program, was held last October 14, 2023. Various types of candles such as vigil lights, tea lights, decorative candles of various colors were made available near the Church entrance. Volunteers from the various marginalized families were invited to participate in this program.

Lastly, Hope Sunday Market is launched every first Sunday of each month where our fellow parishioners

are gathered around the church entrance to sell various products and services This program started in 2021 and has continuously helped parishioners in their lines of business like food, clothing, bags, gift items and others.

Joyful parade honors saints

The Parish Youth Ministry, proudly hosted its annual Parade of Saints last October 29, 2023, gathering 48 children adorned in vibrant costumes depicting revered saints. Most participants came from the Our Lady of Hope Parochial School, Misa ng Batang Pag-asa servers, and Pamayanan communities.

The lively procession commenced and culminated at the parish grounds with children excitedly parading in their intricate attires representing various holy figures, captivating the parishioners and people on the streets. Reverend Father Raymond Joseph L. Arre (FRA), the Our Lady of Hope Parish Priest, encouraged not only children but also parents and the entire congregation to aim for holiness: “Let us all aim to be saints, as it is what God desires for each of us.” A vibrant costume competition showcased creative portrayals of saints. Awarded this year are the following:

First Place: Carsten Tyler Lopez as St. Richard the Pilgrim and Angelyn Panuelo as Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage

Second Place: Kian Lorken Tirad as St. Patrick and Alexa Aboganda as St. Cecilia

Third Place: Zachary Miguel Herrera as St. Jude Thaddeus and Lana Angelica Acebuche as St. Catherine of Alexandria

The Parade of Saints, a counterpart to Halloween’s Trick or Treat, served as a beautiful reflection of faith, unity, and reverence within the OLHP community.

The event concluded with blessings from FRA and the distribution of lootbags, fostering a sense of togetherness and spiritual fulfillment among the attendees.

Judith Regine Santos

Residents & volunteers learn to make candles

Sis. Edna Leonarez, gets her blood pressure checked

Parade of Saints participants with Rev. Fr. Raymond Joseph Arre, after the procession

Jubilee Year Programs,

Maki-Lakbay! Aral, Nilay, at Dasal para sa Misyon. Our Mission of becoming a Shrine of Mary, A Shrine of Hope.

Itinalaga ng Santo Papa Francisco ang taong 2025 bilang Jubilee Year na may temang “Pilgrims of Hope”. Kaugnay nito ay inilunsad ng mga ministries ng ating parokya ang iba’t ibang programa noong nakaraang Fiesta Novena Masses bilang paghahanda sa darating na Jubilee Year 2025. Ang mga programang ito ay makakatulong rin sa pangarap natin na maging Dambana ang Our Lady of Hope Parish

Sa pagsisimula ng Formation Ministry noong Enero 8, ay inanyayahan ang mga batang edad 6-12 years old na makilahok sa kanilang programang “ABKD: Aral, Basa, Kanta, Dasal” Hope Sunday School: Halina’t mag-ABKD sa Parokya!” Layunin ng programa na ito na turuan ang mga mag-aaral ng elementarya sa pagdarasal upang mapalalim ang kanilang Katolikong pananampalataya sa Diyos at sa iba pa na mga paraan ng paglilingkod sa Panginoon. Sa loob ng isang taon, magkakaroon ng mga linggolinggong pagtitipon upang ihanda

ang mga kabataan sa Sakramento ng Kumpisal, Komunyon, at Kumpil.

Inilunsad naman ng Migrants Ministry noong Enero 9 ang programang “Dalaw Patrona sa mga Pamilya ng Migrante” kung saan nais na ipalaganap ang debosyon sa Ina ng Pag-asa sa mga pamilya ng migrante at pagbibigay ng ligal at pampublikong tulong sa mga ito.

Noong Enero 10, ay inanyayahan ng Worship Ministry ang lahat na makilahok sa programang “Dalaw ng Ina ng Pag-asa”. Layunin nito na mapatibay ang debosyon at presensya ng Ina ng Pag-asa sa loob at labas ng parokya. Ilan sa mga aktibidad ng programang ito ay pagbisita ng OLH image sa iba’t ibang parokya ng diyosesis, establisyimento, at LGU offices; regular na pagdarasal ng nobena at rosaryo bago ang misa; pati na rin ang pagbebenta ng iba’t ibang produkto na may imahen ni Maria tulad ng payong, t-shirt, at tiles Sinundan ito ng Stewardship Ministry noong Enero 11 kung saan kanilang inilunsad ang programang “Lakbay Katiwala - Makimisyon 2.0” kung saan magkakaroon ng iba’t ibang formation talks patungkol sa Stewardship as a way of life

Inanyayahan rin ang lahat na magpatuloy sa pagiging mission partners para sa kanilang programang Daluyan Pag-asa.

Para sa Enero 12, inilunsad ng Basic Ecclesial Community ang programang “Dalaw Patrona” kung saan sila ay magkakaroon ng pamayanan masses at linggolinggong pagpapahiram ng imahen ng Ina ng Pag-asa. Kasabay nito, inilunsad rin ng Public Affairs Ministry ang programang Ugnayang Barangay at Simbahan (UBAS) kung saan magkakaroon ng diskurso at ugnayan ang simbahan at baranggay ukol sa pamamahalang lokal.

Ang Transparochial Ministry na naglunsad noong Enero 13 ay magkakaroon ng programang “Panunumbalik: Balik Lingkod” na layunin na bisitahin at kamustahin ang mga kapatid natin na tumigil na sa paglilingkod sa Panginoon. Habang ang Family and Life Ministry noong Enero 14, ay inanyayahan ang mga magulang na may anak sa elementarya na makilahok sa programang “Aral Pamilya, Hatid ay Pag-asa”. Ang Aral Pamilya ay serye ng mga parenting seminars na layuning maihanda ang mga

Anne Raever

Most. Rev. Honesto F. Ongtioco with the Parish Ministry Heads, holding the Symbols of their Jubilee Year Programs

Programs, inilunsad na!

magulang sa tamang paggabay at pagpapalaki sa mga anak, bilang mga ulirang alagad ng Diyos.

Para sa Enero 15, inilunsad ng Restorative Justice Ministry ang programang “Balik Dangal” para sa ating mga kapatid na nasa piitan o Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs). Layunin ng programang ito na ipaalam sa ating parishioners at sa nasasakupan ng ating baranggay na mayroon tayong ministry na nangangalaga sa pangangailangang pantao, ligal, at ispiritwal ng mga PDL. Sa araw na ito ay inilunsad rin ng Social Communications Ministry ang programang “Witnessing Hope”. Layunin nitong makabuo ng koleksyon ng mga testamento tungkol sa mga himala at matibay na pananampalataya sa Ina ng Pag-asa. Habang noong Enero 16 ay inanyayahan ang lahat ng Kabataan na makilahok sa programa ng Parish Youth Ministry na pinamagatang “Lingkod Kabataan” kung saan maaaring ibahagi ng mga kabataan ang kanilang oras, grasya at mga talento sa kapwa nila kabataaan at lingkod.

Para sa araw ng Kapistahan ng Aparisyon ng Ina ng Pag-asa

(Enero 17), inilunsad ng Social Service and Development Ministry ang programang “Yakap Pag-asa”. Layunin nito na makapaghatid ng serbisyong medikal sa ating mga kaparokya lalo na sa panahon ng pangangailangan. Inilunsad rin ng Parish Finance Council at Parish Pastoral Council ang programang “Handog Para Sa Dambana” fundraising program bilang paghahanda sa ating paglalakbay patungo sa deklarasyon ng ating pagiging Dambana ng Pag-asa.

Ang mga programang ito ay ating

A Shrine of Mary, A Shrine of Hope. Ito po ang ating pangarap para sa ating parokya.

paghahanda, hindi lamang para sa darating na Jubilee Year, kundi pati na rin sa ating pangarap na maging dambana. Halina at makilakbay! Mag-aral, Magnilay, at Magdasal para sa misyon!

Raever Benavidez

Ang Lubos na Kagalang-galang, Honesto F. Ongtioco, kasama ng klero ng Diyosesis ng Cubao, pagkatapos ipagdiwang ang Banal na Misa para sa Kapistahan ng Ina ng Pag-asa

Proposed new facade and perimeter wall

The Road to Emmaus:

a Renewal Experience to Remember

Kathrina Ortiz

Go forth with courage. Go forth with love. Go forth with the understanding that, in living out our shared mission, we contribute to a world that is brighter, kinder, and more compassionate. The mission starts now.

On the 11th and 12th of November 2023, I attended as one of the participants of the Our Lady of Hope Parish annual Parish Renewal Experience (PREx) Seminar, a transformative program designed to deepen the spiritual connection and understanding within a parish community. The two-day seminar focused on returning to the deepest meaning of our baptism.

There were a total of 15 participants in attendance. The seminar brought people together within the parish community and united them through Christian faith. Furthermore, we delved into a collection of diverse insights from different individual speakers and participants, each offering their own unique perspective on various talks.

Sister Rona de la Cuesta, one of the speakers, delved into the idea that evangelization is intricately tied to the way we live our lives. She emphasized that our actions, choices, and daily conduct serve as a powerful testimony to our faith. She drew inspiration from the story of Mother Mary’s birth to Jesus Christ to illustrate the concept of obedience, how Mary’s obedient acceptance of her role in God’s plan serves as a model for the greatest form of obedience. Sister Rona’s talk on “evangelization” prompted individuals to consider the profound impact of their lives on spreading the message of faith. It encouraged a holistic approach to evangelization, emphasizing the importance of both lifestyle and obedient submission to God’s will, drawing parallels with the example set by Mother Mary.

On the other hand, Rev. Fr. Raymond Joseph Arre (FRA) spoke about “The Road to Emmaus,” a biblical narrative found in the

Gospel of Luke (24:13–35). This narrative is often seen as a story of spiritual revelation and recognition, illustrating the life-changing power of encountering the resurrected Christ in ordinary moments of life. The disciples’ recognition of Jesus led to a transformative experience. This teaches us that encountering Christ can bring about profound changes in our lives, renewing our faith and understanding of His presence.

As FRA concluded this enriching journey of shared insights and collective wisdom, we found ourselves at the threshold of a new beginning.

The poignant words “ite missa est” resound as a call to action, urging us to embark on our missions with purpose and conviction. In the simplicity of this phrase lies a profound truth: our time together is not the culmination but the commencement. We are not merely recipients of knowledge but torchbearers of a mission that extends beyond these moments.

As we step into the world outside, let “ite missa est” be the anthem that propels us forward, a true mission of the PREX Class 90.

PREx Class 90 with Fr. John Era, after the Holy Mass on their graduation day

PREx Class 90, after their graduation ceremony

PREx Class 90 with their sponsors and speakers, after receiving their Palanca letters

PPC Planning: Through the Eyes of a First-Timer

In my almost two decades as a service volunteer at the Our Lady of Hope Parish, being a lector and commentator from 2004 up to 2019, and a member of the Extraordinary Ministers of the Holy Communion (EMHC) since 2018, I haven’t experienced joining a Parish Pastoral Council (PPC) planning, not until November of 2023 as the head of the newly formed Restorative Justice Ministry (RJM).

It was a surprise to be appointed as a PPC officer since if popular voting is adopted as in the case of choosing public officials in the country, I won’t have a chance of even being nominated in a PPC position. However, as they said, the Church has its own way of doing things, hence, we have this consultative election. But what exactly is this?

Consultative Election

As expressed in the words of our parish priest, Fr. Raymond Joseph L. Arre (FRA), the PPC consultative election follows the lead of our Lord Jesus Christ in choosing His disciples who assisted Him in proclaiming the Good News of salvation and fulfilling His mission.

A little research will clarify a lot of questions among us, parishioners, and lay ground about consultative elections. Canon 536 §1 talks about the establishment of a pastoral council in each parish, over which the pastor (or the parish priest) presides, and the council assists in fostering pastoral activity. In other words, a pastoral council is a consultative body in a parish of the Catholic Church that serves to advice the parish priest about pastoral issues. The council’s main purpose is to assist the parish priest on pastoral matters and recommend as appropriate. The parish priest, however, has the final say after considering the council’s advice and recommendation.

The Parish’s PPC Evaluation and Planning 2024 was a two-day event which was held last November 18 & 19, 2023 at the MaPSA Holistic Development Center in Silang, Cavite. The place was ideal for the planning event for its tranquility, scenic beauty, fresh ambiance, and cozy setting. Its relaxing and inner peace design makes it conducive for PPC officers to refresh and recharge even for just a short while. It gave them a momentary respite from their duties as church volunteers, workers, and family members.

Priority Strategies

The planning started with FRA, reiterated the mission, vision, and core values of the parish, the embodiment of why our parish exists and what it aims to achieve. Each ministry head had to come up as well with priority statements where the top pick priority strategies will be selected from. From these priority strategies, activities for years 2024 - 2025 will be anchored.

Strategic Execution of Plans

A new, simpler template was introduced to lay down each ministry’s strategic execution of plans that includes performance metrics, targets, tactics, champions, time frame, budget, and source of budget. The ministry heads presented their plans to the body and were critiqued on a line-by-line basis. Each one was generous to share something and receptive enough to inputs and feedback so everything went well.

In general, the event was wellorganized, smooth-running, and fun. Kudos to the PPC Coordinator and the Secretariat, and to our parish priest, Fr. Raymond, whom because of his administrative and managerial orientation as a school director, ran the planning systematically and executed the event perfectly.

I am personally thankful for this opportunity. Over all, everything has been a learning experience, the lessons distilled in three takeaways: acceptance, openness and plan.

Sylvester Lumbao

MaPSA

The Living Rosary

Olwencie de Claro

The feast of the Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary was celebrated in the Chapel with Triduum masses and Living Rosary as the culmination activity. The Triduum masses featured different themes that reflect and portray the virtues of the Blessed Virgin Mary to which the presider highlights in their spiritually and pastorally crafted homilies.

The Living Rosary was held on the day of the feast October 7 at the Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Chapel in SM North EDSA, to which the living beads were represented by the different members of the ministries, organizations, and the Parish Pastoral Council of the Our Lady of Hope Parish, headed by Rev. Fr. Raymond Joseph L. Arre, chaplain of the Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Chapel. After the praying of the Holy Rosary, flower offering follows and the solemn Eucharistic celebration thereafter.

The Rosary, also known as the “Psalter of Mary” because of its Hail Mary’s corresponds to the number of psalms in the Bible. It is a form of prayer, originating sometime in the twelfth or fifteenth century, in which fifteen decades of Hail Mary’s are recited, using beads as counters while meditating on a sequence of Mysteries associated with the life of the Blessed Virgin Mary and her active roles in the life of Jesus our Lord which are portrayed in the Joyful, Sorrowful, and Glorious Mysteries. And in the year 2002 on the Feast of the Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary the late pope St. John Paul II added the Mysteries of Light or the Luminous Mysteries that depicts the public ministry of Jesus. (Mc, Brien, Richard P. Pocket Guide to the Saints 2006, p.21.)

The Rosary itself is scriptural by nature, containing the “Our Father” and the angelic salutation of “Hail Mary” in addition to the mysteries rooted in sacred Scripture. Moreover, the Rosary has been called a compendium to the Gospels as it leads us through the life of Jesus and Mary in it, Mary leads us to reflect on the life of the Savior, from his birth through his public ministry, to his passion, death, and resurrection. (Looney, Edward. A Rosary Litany 2018, p.3.)

Paskong Paglalakbay Tungo sa Pag-Asa’t Dasal

Ruther Dagami

Pilgrims of Hope, Nourished by Prayer.

Dumalo ka ba sa Misa de Gallo ng ating parokya? Ang Misa de Gallo ay isang tradisyon sa ating bansa na nagmula pa noong panahon ng mga Kastila kung saan ang mga Pilipino ay nagsisimba ng madaling araw upang i-alay ang kanilang mga dasal at kahilingan sa Mahal na Inang Maria.

Sa ating parokya, ang oras ng

Misa de Gallo ay tuwing ika 4:00 at 5:30 ng umaga, at sa gabi naman ay sa ganap na 8:00. Ang Misa de Gallo ay isang misa nobenaryo na alay kay Maria para sa pagsilang niya sa ating Panginoon.

Sa taong 2023, ang naging tema ng ating Simbang Gabi ay “Pilgrims of Hope, Nourished by Prayer.” Ang temang ito ay gabay natin tungo sa tunay na pag-asang hatid ng mahal na Panginoon sa sabsaban. Ang sabsaban o Belen, ay sumasagisag na ang Panginoon ay dumating at nagkatawang tao upang tayo ay linisin. Kaya naman mapapansin natin na tuwing simbang gabi ay naglalagay na ng belen sa harapan ng santuaryo upang ipaalala sa atin na tayong mga naglalakbay sa dilim ng buhay, ay may Emmanuel na darating kaya’t sa kada titingin tayo at

manalangin sa harapan ng sabsaban ay alalahanin natin ang paglalakbay na ginawa ng banal na mag-anak gayundin ang tatlong mago papunta sa sabsaban at maging paalala sa atin na tulad nila, ngayong panahon ng adbiyento at simbang gabi, tayo din ay naglalakbay tungo sa sabsaban, dahil ang tunay na diwa ng pasko ay pagmamahalan bunga ng tunay na pagasa.

Nawa’y pagtibayin ng dasal at pananampalataya ang ating paglalakbay bilang isang sambayanang umaasa sa Diyos.

FEATURES

PARA SA DAMBANA

“For in hope we were saved. Now hope that sees for itself is not hope. For who hopes for what one sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait with endurance.” (Romans 8:24-25)

Para sa Dambana!

The parish of Our Lady of Hope has been journeying for 57 years. It has achieved much. From a simple chapel with few volunteers, it is now a thriving parish faith community in this part of the Diocese of Cubao. Dedicated to Our Lady of Hope, our parish strives to bring hope to the hopeless and desperate.

Together with creating a parish community of faith, which is an on-going journey and process, we are striving to promote love and devotion to Mary as mother of Hope. Our hope is Jesus, the son of Mary. In our parish, devotion to Mary as mother of Hope is strong. It is now time we spread our wings and bring our love and devotion to Mary, mother of Hope, to greater heights and wider reach. Let us spread our hope and devotion to Mary, mother of Hope to many more people and places!

We do this by making our dream come true. Our dream is to make the Mother of Hope more known, embraced and loved by many. Part of that dream is to make our church a shrine in the Diocese of Cubao dedicated to Mary, mother of Hope. Part of that dream is to intensify our programs to help those at the margins due to poverty, deepen our life of prayer and worship in our liturgical celebrations. Part of our dream is to make our parish church a sacred place of comfort, serenity and beauty where hope grows in the heart of the hopeless, the certainty of new beginnings and the availability of God’s grace amidst our difficult situations. We dream that anyone who enters our parish church will feel in their heart all these and know that our church is a sanctuary of hope and shelter where the burdens in our heart is lifted. They will behold with their eyes Mary as our mother of hope inside our church.

I ask that you pray for these dreams. I implore that you be an outstretched arm, an open hand and feet moving forward, stepping up to make our dreams come true. This dream is possible because of you. In concrete, we need to raise P30 million pesos to make our church a beautiful shrine for God’s people in our parish and for those who will come and visit. As Mary is the patron of our parish, Our Lady of Hope, please become the hope of our parish as we journey and make our dream come true!

Pangarap natin na ang ating parokya ay maging dambaba ni Maria, dambana ng Pagasa! Ikaw at ako, tayo rin ang dambana ng Pagasa!

Para sa Dambana!

Fr. Raymond Joseph L. Arre Parish Priest, Our Lady of Hope Parish

“But pray my children, God will soon grant your request. My Son allows Himself to be moved by compassion.”

- Our Lady of Hope