FMA Lifeline is the official news magazine of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (Salesian Sisters of Don Bosco) in the Philippines and Papua New Guinea. FMA stands for Figlie di Maria Ausiliatrice, the official Italian name of the Congregation founded by St. John Bosco and St. Mary Mazzarello in 1872 in Mornese, Italy. Today, more than 12,000 FMA are present in 94 countries who are dedicated in varied pastoral care of young people and their families.
Sr. Debbie Ponsaran, FMA Sr. Nora Hernandez, FMA Sr. Florita Dimayuga, FMA Daughters of Mary Help of Christians Provincial House 3500 V. Mapa Extension, Sta. Mesa 1016 Manila Tel. No. (02) 714-5937 www.fmafil.org https://www.facebook.com/ SalesianSistersofDonBosco PhilippinesPapuaNewGuinea/
Going to the Margins Going to the margins is a recurring theme in the messages of Pope Francis. One of the latest big event along this line was the first ever World Day of the Poor on November 19, 2017 declared by Pope Francis himself with the theme, “Love not in word but in deed.” Last Christmas, all FMA communities in the Philippines celebrated Christmas with the poor. Although these have been yearly activities ever since, now they have taken renewed enthusiasm and greater spiritual meaning. Thanks to Pope Francis for greatly inspiring us towards which matters most and which leads us to a deeper encounter with God. Going to the margins was also exemplied in Amoris Laetitia (English: The Joy of Love). It is an apostolic exhortation by Pope Francis addressing the pastoral care of families which was released in April 2016. It encourages both pastors and members of the laity to accompany and care for families and others in situations of particular need. Amoris Laetitia entered the world in a time of crisis for families. We need to be more welcoming to families in difficulties. Rather than greeting them with a list of rules to be followed, the document encourages “listening” as the first response. Going to the margins perhaps had its strongest call when the Year of Mercy was declared in Pope Francis’ April 2015 papal bull of indiction (formal proclamation), Misericordiae Vultus (English: “The Face of Mercy”). It was estimated that over 20 million people participated in the Church’s Jubilee Year of Mercy at the Vatican and a billion people may have participated in churches worldwide. Holy Doors have closed in churches and basilicas around the world but the call to mercy and going to the margins will continue to be at the heart of the Church’s response to the world. -
On the Cover The Educating Community of Don Bosco celebrated Christmas party with the poor in Cavite, one among many Christmas parties with the poor that the FMA and countless collaborators organized last Christmas. Photo Credit: Sr. Airiz Ann Japitana, FMA
Sr. Debbie S. Ponsaran, FMA
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From the Provincial
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Going to the margins of our Society
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Love as a Well-aged Wine
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Love in Marriage
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Looking to Jesus: the Vocation of the Family
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Love made fruitful
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The Joy of Love in the Family Irregular Situations and Weakness in the Family
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Formation: An EverOpen Journey
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FMA-SDB Vocation Animation Team Holds Vocation Festival
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Stirrings of God in Contemplation
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Project Mornese 2017
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Visit of Sr. Vilma
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The Year of Mercy Journey Photo News Religious Professions and Anniversaries
... With a heart transformed by mercy God is merciful (Ex 34:6); his mercy endures forever (Ps 136).
These lines from Scripture are not only to remember the story of the Chosen People but to remind us that for all eternity man will always be under the merciful gaze of the Father. Mercy is always a gratuitous, unmerited act of the Father’s love, which forgives, heals and transforms. In His infinite goodness and tenderness, God assumed our human condition and made his mercy close and accessible through Jesus, the Incarnate One. In Jesus, He never tires of opening wide the door of His Heart to repeat that He loves us and wants to render us today the transparency of His foreseeing love in the world. Pope Francis, who has made mercy the heart of his teaching, by his own concrete gestures of compassion toward the most forgotten, the rejects of society, the defenseless, constantly invites and encourages us to become authentic signs of Jesus’ mercy to the world. He reminds us that mercy, more than an effort, is an impelling need that generates the mission and service. Having encountered God’s love in the merciful Face of Jesus, our educating communities embraced this call and committed ourselves to give our concrete response to the joys and hopes of those at the margins. In varied and creative ways, we opened the door of solidarity to the poorest among us, beginning with the young
of humanity, so much in need of re-discovering its dignity as a creature sought, forgiven, and loved with mercy. With humility and courage, we look to Don Bosco and Mother Mazzarello, who handed on to us the richness of the Salesian charism, deeply imbued with a project of love that impels us to proclaim the God of mercy and tenderness. They taught us the way to weave mercy-tenderness-loving-kindness in a balanced and harmonious way. They inspired us to educate the young in the spirit of joy and loving kindness, to goodness and to responsibility toward life. Inspired by them, we have learned to become bearers and missionaries of the tenderness of God. As we continue to celebrate and live the mission of Jesus to let God’s mercy shine through us, let us continue to build together, with God’s grace, educating communities that are rich in mercy, and passionate in the search to educate and accompany poor young people and families under our care with the same sentiments of Jesus in the style of the Preventive System. May the Lord continue to bestow on us the gift of mercy, which warms the heart and redeems, radiates inner joy and opens hope to new life.
people in our settings and families in need. Through small steps, we have walked with them in faith, believing in the immense riches of love that God has for the whole
May 2016 - December 2017 FMA Lifeline
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are central in the Church and the Church will always be renewed when our attention shifts from ourselves to those who need our care.
“Truly I tell you that just as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it also to me” (Mt. 25:40). That’s Christ declaring crystal clear His preferential option for the poor and that loving should not only be in words but in action. Those who are marginal in the world
Last November 19, 2017 Pope Francis declared the first ever World Day of the Poor with the theme, “Love not in word but in deed.” In line with this message, the Province of St. Mary Mazzarello (Philippines and Papua New Guinea) shared Christmas celebrations with thousands of poor families in Metro Manila, Pampanga, Laguna, Mindoro, Palawan, Negros Occidental, and Cebu. Each of the 17 communities in the Philippines including the two international formation houses had chosen a day or days for these celebrations which started as early as the last week of November and on to the first week of January! The Christmas celebrations with the poor were made successful through the initiative, participation and collaboration of the Educating Communities, Laura Vicuña Foundation, VIDES Philippines, countless benefactors especially ACTS - Singapore, friends, and relatives of the Sisters. The Laura Vicuña Foundation (of the Salesian Sisters of Don Bosco) gathered 700 children and youths on December 3, 2017 in Enchanted Kingdom, a famous amusement park in Santa Rosa, Laguna whose owners are also generous benefactors. The children and youths came from the poor areas of Metro Manila and nearby provinces. They enjoyed unlimited rides the whole day. Mass was celebrated in the afternoon followed by the gift-giving of “gift-pails” which contained basic commodities. The evening ended with the fireworks. The ACTS (A Call To Share), a parish-based group from Singapore generously sponsored and collaborated in the Christmas gift-giving
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FMA Lifeline May 2016 - December 2017
in Pampanga, Cavite, Laguna, Palawan, Cebu, and in four areas in Metro Manila, as early as the last week of November until December. Their generosity has been benefitting thousands of poor not only at Christmas time and not only in the Philippines but also in other Asian countries. VIDES Philippines (a volunteer organization of the Salesian Sisters of Don Bosco) also sponsored not only the Christmas gift-giving but also a medical mission for 200 Aetas of Pampanga (indigenous group) on December 2. Six doctors and three nurses have served gratuitously. Even the medicines were given free. This is a yearly endeavor in cooperation with the FMA community in Mabalacat, Pampanga. The Don Bosco School (Sta. Mesa, Manila) Educating Community sponsored and collaborated in two Christmas parties for more than 700 persons: in the school ground itself for the poor in the neighborhood on December 17 and as far as Cavite in collaboration with
the VIDES office in the area on December 16. The group Family of Don Bosco has particularly sponsored and animated the in-house celebration. The 150 children and youths of the Laura Vicuña Foundation Center at the FMA Provincial house in Sta. Mesa, Manila enjoyed a total of 12 Christmas parties sponsored by different groups, some of whom were complete strangers who had only searched in Google for children’s foundations in Manila! Yet the Laura Vicuña Center, the home for girls at risk in Cubao enjoyed the most number of Christmas parties, daily throughout December! A lot of them were sponsored by longtime benefactors while other were results of Google search! Many FMA communities did not only hold the Christmas gift-giving in their own ambient but also went to the peripheries, to the margins of society in order to celebrate Christmas with the poor in the Oratory centers. The typical celebrations consisted of the opening prayer, dance and song presentations, games with prizes, meals, and gift-giving which usually consisted of basic commodities such as food, clothes and toys for children. For some centers, the sisters also facilitated the Advent Recollections to prepare them for Christmas. In his homily during the First World Day of the Poor, Pope Francis said: “There in the poor, we find the presence of Jesus, who though rich, became poor.... Love God and our neighbor. Only this lasts forever, everything else passes away. What we invest in love remains, the rest vanishes.” Although these Christmas celebrations with the poor have been yearly activities ever since in the Philippine Province, now they have taken renewed enthusiasm and greater spiritual meaning. Thanks to Pope Francis for greatly inspiring us towards which matters most and which leads us to a deeper encounter with God.
- Sr. Debbie Ponsaran, FMA
May 2016 - December 2017 FMA Lifeline
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An interesting anecdote was shared in a homily. It was about a couple who, in their golden years, was overheard conversing. In spite of the ups and downs of their rapport especially challenged by physical aches and pains that start to set in one after another, the wife, in a more relaxed mood, wanted to express to her husband how much she appreciated him and said, “I really feel that you love me all these years and I can truly say that our journey together is tried and true.” The husband whose impaired hearing often prevented him from clearly deciphering the wife’s words blurted a very surprising answer, “I am also fed up with you!” What happened next was probably even more interesting. Love as a Well-aged Wine In Amoris Laetitia, Pope Francis dedicates a section on casting lights on crises, worries and difficulties of married life. He compares the love of a married couple that has withstood the test of time to a fine wine that has come into its own. “Just as a good wine begins to “breathe” with time, so too the daily experience of fidelity gives married life richness and “body”. Fidelity has to do with patience and expectation. Its joys and sacrifices bear fruit as the years go by. The love present from the beginning becomes more conscious, settled and mature as the couple discover each other anew day after day, year after year. Saint John of the Cross tells us that ‘old lovers are tried and true’. They ‘are outwardly no longer afire with powerful emotions and impulses, but now taste the sweetness of the wine of love, well-aged and stored deep within their hearts.’” (AL 231)
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FMA Lifeline May 2016 - December 2017
Crisis as a dramatic beauty of married life The Pope sheds a positive light on the crises that are inevitable in married and family life and even refers to them as “part of its dramatic beauty which should not weaken their relationship; instead it must improve, settle and mature the wine of their union. Each crisis becomes an apprenticeship in growing closer together or learning a little more about what it means to be married. There is no need for couples to resign themselves to an inevitable down-ward spiral or a tolerable mediocrity. On the contrary, when marriage is seen as a challenge that involves overcoming obstacles, each crisis becomes an opportunity to let the wine of their relationship age and improve. Couples will gain from receiving help in facing crises, meeting challenges and acknowledging them as part of family life.” (AL 232) Vis-à-vis such a realistic perspective of growing in love as a couple at the service of the family, I share here the salient points of a letter written to me by a married woman who is a member of our oratorian mothers’ group in Mary Help of Christians Oratory, Minglanilla Cebu. She wrote it on the occasion of the Provincial Educating Community Gratitude Day that coincides with the annual Provincial Visit. She is grateful for her transforming experience in the oratory that challenged her and her husband to make a crucial decision of breaking their dependency on gambling in order to make both ends meet. She acknowledges that having encountered the Lord and the transforming power of his Word and grace particularly in the catechesis
and prayer experience in the oratory, her life has had a new direction and meaning. She, in turn, influenced her husband in a truly life-changing manner that impelled him to change his lifestyle from being a cockfight-addict to becoming a truly loving husband and a responsible father. Below is the original letter of Marina (not her real name). It is purposely published in Filipino which succinctly articulates the sentiments of the letter-writer: “Just to thank you sa oratory. Malaki ang pagbabago sa aming pamilya dahil sa oratory. Dati nagsusugal ako ng majong at tong-its. Ang asawa ko rin sabong ng manok at majong. Madalas kaming nag-aaway
dahil talo sa sugal at walang makain at di naming naaasikaso ang mga anak namin. Pero nung napasok na ko sa oratory itinigil ko na ang pagsusugal, pati na rin ang asawa ko hindi na rin nagsusugal. Kaya hindi na kami nag-aaway at nagging maayos na ang takbo ng buhay naming dahil napalapit na kami sa Panginoon. Nakapagsisimba na kami tuwing Linggo. Kaya laking pasasalamat ko sa inyong lahat ng mga Salesian Sisters dahil kayo ang naging daan para mamulat kami at mapalapit sa Panginoon. Kayo ang naging instrumento para mapalapit kami sa kanya. Dati manok na pansabong ang hinihimas ng asawa ko pagkagising sa umaga. Pero ngayon ako na ang kanyang niyayakap at hinahalikan pagkagising niya dahil pagmamahal na ang nasa puso naming at hindi ang galit at away. Maraming salamat sa inyong lahat ng mga madre at inalay ninyo ang buhay ninyo para sa amin.
Love as a wine
Amoris Laetitia presents married love as a twofor-the road journey both through life’s drama and joy, shadow and light that makes its face truly beautiful and its taste appreciated like the well-aged wine that is savoured sip by sip through the years and transformed into a love that is tried and true. Such love is a living testimony that, after all, there is still “forever.”
-Sr. Maria Socorro T. Bacani, FMA
May 2016 - December 2017 FMA Lifeline
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“Love should always be the reason why a man and a woman stand before God and commit to spend their lives together, for better or for worse, in sickness and in health, in richer and in poorer, till death do them part. But what really is love? When is a person ready to take the sacrament of marriage because one is “in love”? My definition of love is a product of our 23 years of married life which began at an age when one defines love as simply that tingling feeling when your eyes lock and his lips curl into a smile. But when life gradually reveals itself to you, love becomes much more than merely a feeling. Love is commitment. Unlike most teenage girls who dream of the tall, dark and handsome man, mine is just to have a loving husband who will stay with me forever. But God is good, He pampered me with my dream man packaged in a tall, dark and handsome being. We have been neighbors since childhood. But our love story blossomed in my third year of high school, and reached its height in my third year of college, when I conceived our first child. I was 19 and he was 20 years old. It was a memorable year; a crossroad where we had to make a crucial decision that would shape our future. Eventually, our young hearts won. Many have questioned our choice. Some predicted a short-lived relationship. I have always believed in the power of love. Thus we decided to take the chance. The early years were tough. Emotionally, psychologically and most of all, financially. We could have easily said good-bye and return to our respective comfortable lives. But I guess we were just so committed to our forever, and because of this commitment, we have placed ourselves under the wings of God by joining the community of the Couples for Christ, helping us recognize his power to keep our bond strong. Our regular prayer meetings also became our couple’s time together. Love is respect for and support of each other. As we were then both undergraduates, finding stable sources of income was very challenging. Money was indeed scarce. But we never fought about it. It has been our unspoken rule not to make an issue out of money. Income was not a subject for competition. The typical idea of the husband-provider and the wife-housekeeper also found no place in our relationship. Whoever had the opportunity to perform either, had the support of the other. We respected each other’s decisions, including the job we 6
FMA Lifeline May 2016 - December 2017
Love inmarriage chose. When I had the chance to work as a business writer, he willingly took charge of the house. When he was blessed to work as TV director and video journalist, we decided to get a house help but promised to find time for the family. He knew that I have always wanted to pursue a legal profession. He gave me his blessing and supported me all the way until I finally passed the bar exam. When he decided to resign from his very demanding job, I never questioned his decision. I know his passion for arts so I encouraged him to venture into a business
that will ignite this passion. Now, he successfully operates H(e)aven’s Arts Café, H(e)aven’s Video Production, and H(e)aven’s Gifts. Who would have thought that we would still be able to live our childhood dreams? We did. Because of our respect for each other’s individuality. Love is fear of hurting one’s partner. My eldest son is already 22 years old, and has had his share of relationships. I always remind him to never hurt his girl -- emotionally and physically. I have had that fear in me from the start. During the height of disagreements, I keep quiet because of fear that hurtful words might hit him like a sword. Words that create marks that stay embedded in one’s heart.
Love is a never ending courtship. Love in marriage must be nurtured. This only takes few hours of every day but its return is so much more. A nurtured love makes a complicated life easy to deal with. And most of all, it brings out the best in each of you and your children. We stand witness to this greatness, as we see our children grow into God-fearing and responsible citizens. With the help of our partner, Mary Help Christians, our children have become leaders in the Youth for Christ community and have thankfully picked-up life’s lessons through our actions.”
Mrs. Jessica B. Natad “I always perceived Mama and Papa as a happy couple. You could see in their eyes how they want, care and love each other, a perfect pair meant to last forever. They both know how to have fun and enjoy each other’s company which I think is a significant trait a couple should have. I can see how much they support each other’s wants and ambitions. I have witnessed both of them being the best individuals they could be as they reached their dreams backed up by the significant other. Communication is vital if a relationship is to last, and yes, I have learned it from them. During challenges, I could see how they show care and comfort to each other after talking it out. Mama shared the thought that a relationship in which one is careful not to hurt the other is happy and strong. I have learned two things from them. First, to lovingly pour your effort in making the relationship fun and happy through the years, that it’s not a shame to be stupid and silly for someone you love. Another is to look past the flaws and love entirely your partner whom you’re going to be with for life. And with that, I shall
be ready to love because I know, I have learned from the best.”
Chailester “My parents’ love for each other is the real relationship goal. This relationship exemplifies the saying ‘action speaks louder than words’ like the way they take care of each other by simply sharing skyflakes to ease hunger while driving from work to home, and the way they share their stories as if they’re just having their first date. There may be misunderstandings but simple laughter takes them away. They’ve spoken words through actions, showing and teaching us that love is more than just a feeling; it’s a commitment. This may be the reason why I’m still single (weh?) for I believe that it’s easy to fall in love, but to stay in love is the real journey. I believe because I still see and experience what it’s like to be loved by persons who truly love each other for better, or for worse, in sickness and in health.”
Chailester “For me, my parents acquired the highest form of romantic relationship, the consummate love. There are three basic components of love and these are intimacy, passion, and commitment. Intimacy refers to the closeness and interconnectedness of the couple; passion refers to the feeling of romance, physical attraction, and sexual arousal, while commitment refers to the devotion that they have for each other. I described their relationship as consummate love, for the reason that they have the full combination of all three components. They are still close and treat each other as best of friends. They are still passionate, so passionate that my mother’s eyes will turn into the shape of a heart when my father gets a haircut. I am
especially proud and thankful that I didn’t see, hear, or even thought of them fighting. They are my inspiration and my guide in my own relationship. They have a healthy relationship characterized by mutual respect, honesty, support for one another, fairness and equality, and good communication. That is why their relationship is strong and awesome.”
Nino Philustrate “I think Mom and Dad love each other very much, and these little things they do for each other are big acts of love. The greatest things like love come in small boxes. Like how Dad takes Mom to work; even though traffic is terrible, they can enjoy each other’s happy company while waiting for the cars to move. When Mom takes care of Dad whenever he is sick or something, I see how Mom makes Dad laugh and how she is really concerned when Dad makes “the face” (Dad makes a face when it really hurts). I feel good about their love. It was God who planned this marriage because if it weren’t for God, I wouldn’t be here telling you of this love.”
Phymeila “In a world that’s full of hate, our love is still strong. We are not perfect, but we are trying our best. We are not rich, but we are contented. We are not famous, but we have skills. We are not saints, but we are blessed. If I had the chance to turn back time, I would still choose my wife and the family that I have.”
Mr. Philustrate A. Natad By Mr. Philustrate A. Natad, Mrs. Jessica B. Natad, and kids -- Chailester, Jhilcaisse, Nino Philustrate and Phymeila Kristi, students of Mary Help of Christians School, Cebu May 2016 - December 2017 FMA Lifeline
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“All families need God; every single one. We need His help, His strength, His blessing, His Mercy and His forgiveness. It takes simplicity. To pray as a family, simplicity is needed.” - Pope Francis Laid back is a perfect description of what life has been many years ago. Families are bound together by afternoon walks, Sunday masses, reunions or just having meals together. Parents are looked up to with great respect and authority. Children would obey whatever orders or responsibilities their parents would impose on them.
was not allowed to be in contact with her sister due to the uncertainty that the disease might be contagious. It was a very difficult situation for us. My husband had to take care of our younger daughter while I couldn’t leave the side of my sick eldest. The partnership that my husband and I have had from the time we helped each other to graduate on time at a dental school strengthened our
Looking to Jesus
The Vocation of the Family
Married for almost 12 years, I falter to give a rundown on rules and grounds on how to manage a good family life because I know that there are other couples who have been together much longer than 12 years. The mystery of the Christian family can be fully understood only in the light of the Father’s infinite love revealed in Christ, who gave himself up for our sake and who continues to dwell in our midst (Amoris Laetitia). We all desire to have a happy marriage, a happy family and a happy life but reality leads us to the many inevitable challenges which could test our strength and our faith in God. Ours happened on August 16, 2012 when our eldest daughter, who was six years old then, suddenly had very high fever, was unable to respond and stared into space. Her left leg and shoulder were jerking uncontrollably and she suddenly couldn’t remember my name. Our hearts broke, our minds were racing. It was a complete nightmare. Bringing her to a hospital in Manila from Pampanga via an ambulance was the hardest travel I ever had. The neurologist diagnosed her with encephalitis, an inflammation in the brain that can be caused by a number of factors, including viruses, bacteria and the body’s immune system turning against itself. My first born stayed in the intensive care unit for five days. Unfortunately, there was no way of knowing how long the disease would take nor if there would be long lasting effects leading to lifelong disabilities. To make the situation
bond as a couple to share responsibilities, to support each other and to overcome the emotional stress brought about by our ordeal. We only trusted God and God alone. We asked for prayers from everyone, from people close to us even from people we don’t even know. We will forever be grateful to the FMA sisters who prayed hard for our
a little harder, we have a two year old daughter who
daughter.
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FMA Lifeline May 2016 - December 2017
We witnessed a great miracle, an answered prayer. After days in the ICU, our daughter suddenly gained her strength and consciousness. She went back to her normal self. All the doctors and specialists couldn’t explain what happened. It was a testimony of God’s divine love and intervention. Life today is fast paced. Everyone’s busy, stressed and preoccupied with so many concerns. Family life has been greatly affected. Its members tend to be unconcerned and apathetic to the needs and feelings of one another. Technology has taken a great part in deviating the attention of the children today. The most beautiful relationships are those that are nourished and centered on God, the Father. Like Him, parents should never tire of expressing their love to
“What is your motto? Who is your crush? Define love. Love is like a Rosary that is full of mystery.” These are some of the famous questions and answers in a slam book (a notebook which was famous in the 80’s, it is passed among teenagers to fill in their own answer to the questions). But as you mature and move on to the next stages of your life, love’s definition changes and becomes more mysterious and meaningful. Having a family of your own is not just marrying the person you love. Before entering into a relationship it is also important to know the family of your loved one, their values, tradition and the way they interact with each other. Some would say that it is an old-fashioned way but I believe that if you want to have a happy family you will take it seriously. It is also important to listen to your parents because they sometimes see things that you cannot see clearly, especially when you’re in love. I feel blessed that my husband and I grew up in a family that
their children. There is no theory or formula leading to a successful family life. What truly matters is the conscious effort and choice of each family member to let Christ be the center of their homes. Pope Francis said that the experience of love in families is a perennial source of strength for the life of the Church. A happy and solid family life upholds the dignity of marriage as a covenant leading to the realization of God’s love both for the Church and for all humankind. By Dr. Arnold T. Punsalan and Dr. Frances Anne B. Punsalan, parents of two wonderful girls, Francesca Julia (Grade 6) and Atasha Francine (Grade 3) of Mary Help of Christians School, Pampanga
has a great love for God, for Jesus and Mama Mary. We grew up knowing the importance of going to Mass as a family and praying the Holy Rosary daily. Praying the Holy Rosary daily is now a big challenge, especially in this time of technology. But we believe that teaching the young
these values, the same values that we received from our parents will help them to be good children of God and to be prepared for the realities of the world. Life is hard if faith in God is absent. Love is also disciplining your children. Discipline is not hitting or shouting at them. It is explaining to them that their actions/words are not proper. As parents, we correct our children at an early age. We always try to be good examples to them. We want our children to be polite and respectful and so we show them how polite and respectful we are to our parents and others. We try to witness to them what we are asking them to be. There
May 2016 - December 2017 FMA Lifeline
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are some hobbies that became a family hobby too. We want to see our children play musical instruments, and so we take time to teach and play them these musical instruments. We want them to sing and dance, and so we sing and dance with them joyfully. In one homily, the priest asked, “How would your children describe you?” When I arrived home, I asked my children, “How would you describe Daddy?” Their eyes were full of excitement when they said, “Daddy is so cool, funny …!” Then I asked, “How about Mommy?” They looked at me as if they couldn’t find words to describe me. There were some moments of silence then finally, Theo said, “Prayerful”. I was hoping they would say caring and loving. I realized that whenever I shout and ask them to stop playing because they might fall or get injured they only remember the scolding but do not understand the reason behind. So after that experience, I have been trying to be more friendly and calm in dealing with them. Our experience as parents in disciplining our children is a challenge because we have different personalities. I am more of a disciplinarian and Tat is the cool one. I have to accept that fact, but someone has to teach them tough love. As parents, we should not be afraid to remind or correct our children, even if it means you will not be the favored one. After 10 years of being a parent, I have
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learned that I should also become a “disciplined parent” who can have self-control when their children start to be out of control. For our children love is spelled as time. Time spent well with our family will truly be fruitful. I think this is the best legacy we can give to our children: to let them know that there is a loving God. That He loved us first and will always be there to love us. I think love is planted in our hearts by God through our parents and the people around us, especially our teachers and the Salesian Sisters who helped us to grow in that love that turned into goodness. And when we do good things to others they will feel God’s loving presence. Love made fruitful. By Thelma Ponce, mother of two elementary pupils at Mary Help of Christians College, Canlubang, Laguna
The Joy of Love in the Family “The joy of love experienced by families is also the joy of the Church.” These are the opening words of Pope Francis in Amoris Laetitia, his exhortation on the joy of love in the family. The joyful and life-giving love of the family arises from the experience of the joyful and lifegiving love of God. The Church’s teaching on the family, therefore, is in itself a joyful act. For that teaching is in the first place, the passionate proclamation of the “Gospel of the Family.” God who is love, at the center of the family Once in a small village lived a poor yet decent and industrious family. One day, the father, mother and four children were surprised to be visited by three angels: Life, Wealth and Love. “God sent us to you but you should choose only one of us to dwell in your home.” The family gathered for discernment. “If we choose Wealth,“ they said, “we will have all we need and even more. We can share what we have to others. If we choose Life, we will get to see our children’s children and live till a ripe old age. If we choose Love, we will live in peace, harmony and joy, regardless of the situation we are in.” The family made a decision and invited Love to dwell in their home. Love entered, but they were surprised that Wealth and Life followed. “But we only invited Love,” they said. “If you invited Wealth, Life and Love will be left outside of your home. If Life, Wealth and Love will leave. Since you chose me, Wealth and Life will come with me for where Love goes, Wealth and Life follow.”
“If the family is centered on Christ, He will unify and illumine its entire life.” (Amoris Laetitia #317) Indeed, if God is at the center of the family, then, love prevails, blessings are abundant. Sure, there may be difficulties but graces and blessings are never wanting. Parents the first educators of children “The family is the place where parents become their children’s first teachers in the faith.” (Amoris Laetitia #16) The parents, being the first catechists of their children are duty bound to instruct their children about God and are first and foremost role models of their children. How sad it is for some parents to forget their noble responsibility. As a former Assistant Principal for Student Affairs and Discipline, I had a case of a Grade 3, eight-year old boy, who brought a pornographic video to school. He was insistent on lending it to his classmates who refused to watch it during his birthday. To my disbelief, I have learned from him that it was given to him by his father as a birthday gift. In fact, he has already got a collection. I called for the parents but only the father came, elegantly dressed in barong tagalog. I was holding back my judgment that his noble appearance concealed a questionable character. The father put the blame on the uncles, the driver and his brother’s friend but after some time, he admitted that it was his way of educating his child. “That is how he learns to be a man,” he said. I was saddened by his principle but I asked him, “Is a man not
May 2016 - December 2017 FMA Lifeline
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supposed to be decent, dignified, respectful?” Anyhow, I was consoled by his promise to mend his ways as a father and educate his children properly. Talking to him on several other occasions, I am glad he was true to his promise.
No wonder, St. John Bosco and St. Mary Mazzarello have always wanted to create a “family spirit” in every Salesian presence. Given the necessary conditions and values of the family, surely, young people will grow into good and responsible Christians, honest and productive citizens, heroes and saints worthy of emulation.
Family, the domestic church Jesus, Mary and Joseph – the Holy Family “The family is called to join in daily prayer, to read the Word of God and to share in Eucharistic communion, and thus to grow in love and become more fully a temple in which the Spirit dwells.” (Amoris Laetitia #29)
“Every family should look to the icon of the Holy Family of Nazareth. Its daily life had its share of burdens.” (Amoris Laetitia #30)
I am edified by parents who teach their children basic values like respect, politeness, gratitude and others. It is admirable to see parents who bring their children to church for Mass and to receive the sacrament of
As in all families, we all have a share of joys and hardships in life. We are all encouraged to make the Holy Family our example of faith in all circumstances. We are all God’s children. Good and loving Father as He is, God will see
reconciliation; parents who show and remind their children to pray at all times, to say thank you, excuse me, I’m sorry, I beg your pardon; parents who, through their example teach patience, kindness, generosity, forgiveness, joy, hope, strength, endurance, sharing and dialogue in complex situations; parents who, in spite of their busyness, attend the activities of their children. With this kind of relationship, children grow in an atmosphere of love and children are helped to honor their father and their mother and all their elders.
us through whatever we experience as a family. We run to Mary, our Mother who assures us as she assured Juan Diego during her apparition to him on December 9, 1531 “Do not be troubled or weighed down with grief. Do not fear any illness or vexation, anxiety or pain. Am I not here who am your Mother? Are you not under my shadow and protection? Am I not your fountain of life? Are you not in the folds of my mantle? Is there anything else you need?” -
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FMA Lifeline May 2016 - December 2017
Sr. Ann Lyn Rose D. Magno, FMA
In every age and time, man philosophizes and responds
heart”. In the Church, one can receive pardon and mercy in
according to the context of human situations, culture, and
the Sacrament of Reconciliation, with the consequence of
relationships. What may be applicable in the past may
reforming one’s life and taking on the path of conversion.
or may not be valid anymore. It is therefore necessary
At the conclusion of the synod, the participants made this
for man to continually reflect and discern personally and
resolution: “In considering a pastoral approach towards
collectively so as to be relevant which ultimately means to
people who have contracted a civil marriage, who are
be effective because proposals are taken and acted on.
divorced and remarried, or simply living together, the
Pope Francis convoked the 14 ordinary general assembly
Church has the responsibility of helping them understand
of the Synod of Bishops with the theme, “The vocation and
the divine pedagogy of grace in their lives and offering
mission of the family in the Church and in the contemporary
them assistance so they can reach the fullness of God’s
th
world”. This Synod addressed various
plan for them...” (cf. AL no. 297) This position reflects
situations
an authentic ecclesia viatorum, a Church ever on the journey, so filled with hope and imbued with charity, especially for sinners.
How did Jesus Christ handle weakness and irregular situations in his time? In the Gospel of John, Chapter 4, we find the following exchange between Jesus and the Samaritan woman: The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water so that I won’t get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water.” He told her, “Go, call your husband and come back.” of weakness and imperfection, such as having contracted
“I have no husband,” she replied.
a civil marriage or being divorced, remarried, or simply
Jesus said to her, “You are right when you say you have
living together.
no husband. The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you
These are discussed lengthily in Chapter 8 of Amoris
now have is not your husband. What you have just said is
Laetitia
quite true.”
entitled
“Accompanying,
Discerning
and
Integrating Weakness”. Having that stance of openness
Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in him
and that attitude of discernment will be very helpful
because of the woman’s testimony, “He told me everything
in approaching this topic. We can make use of some
I ever did.”
questions to guide us: Jesus told her the truth but she did not feel condemned What is the stand of Pope Francis regarding weakness
and judged. Instead, she felt redeemed. Pardoned. This
and irregular situations?
is because she first asked Jesus for His life-giving water (Chapter 4:15). And in the end, she became an evangelizer
In many parts of the document, Pope Francis stresses
among the Samaritans. They, too, believed in Jesus.
the importance of mercy and compassion. In particular, we find this statement: “The way of the Church is not to
How did the Pharisees approach weakness and
condemn anyone for ever; it is to pour out the balm of
irregular situations?
God’s mercy on all those who ask for it with a sincere heart… Consequently, there is a need to avoid judgments
The Pharisees were the outstanding critics of Jesus. In
which do not take into account the complexity of various
our present context, and borrowing the language of the
situations and to be attentive, by necessity, to how people
young, they can be referred to as “mema” – “me masabi
experience distress because of their condition.” (cf. AL no.
lang”. Today, we do have such personalities in the Church,
296) Let us carefully take note of the condition necessary
those who contradict the way of mercy and compassion
to receive God’s mercy: “to ask for it (mercy) with a sincere
and criticize the teachings of Pope Francis and the Church.
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From the Gospel of John, Chapter 8, A Woman Caught in
she is the victim. But, she also has to ask herself why her
Adultery:
husband strayed away. Did she play any part in his decision
As he was speaking, the teachers of religious law and the
to leave her and look for another? A negative attitude
Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in the
perhaps? Therefore, she has to sincerely approach the
act of adultery. They put her in front of the crowd.
sacrament of reconciliation and beg for God’s mercy and
“Teacher,” they said to Jesus, “this woman was caught
forgiveness, before receiving Jesus in Holy Communion.
in the act of adultery. The law of Moses says to stone her.
Meanwhile, the call to conversion remains for the husband
What do you say?”
and his new partner. They are called to recognize their
They were trying to trap him into saying something they
sinfulness and mend their ways, before they can approach
could use against him, but Jesus stooped down and wrote
both sacraments of reconciliation and the Eucharist.
in the dust with his finger. They kept Another asked me, “What if my spouse refuses to cooperate in our annulment case?” This calls for due process in a Catholic tribunal, because unless nullity of marriage has been declared, the union remains and neither party can be released from their obligations and be given the right to remarry.
Non-cooperation in an annulment case
does not automatically mean permission to take a new partner as replacement. Still another raised this question: “How about a priest or a nun who has abandoned one’s vocation for a partner?” This is a totally different case because one of the parties involved has a theoretical knowledge about the demanding an answer, so he
consequences of abandoning one’s priestly or religious
stood up again and said, “All right, but let the one who has
vocation. In the formation of priests, the topic “Loss of
never sinned throw the first stone!”
Clerical State” found in the Code of Canon Law is carefully
Then he stooped down again and wrote in the dust.
explained to the clerics before ordination. For religious,
When the accusers heard this, they slipped away one by
the topic “Separation from the Institute” discussed in both
one, beginning with the oldest, until only Jesus was left
Canon Law and the Constitutions, are taken up before
in the middle of the crowd with the woman. Then Jesus
perpetual profession. In this case then, there exists both
stood up again and said to the woman, “Where are your
grave sin and scandal, which will continue to persist until
accusers? Didn’t even one of them condemn you?”
the process of dispensation under the universal law of the
“No, Lord,” she said.
Church is completed.
And Jesus said, “Neither do I. Go and sin no more.” If we find ourselves in an irregular situation, we ought Even though the Pharisees were challenging Jesus to
to listen once more to the Gospel message and its call
decide for or against the Law of Moses, Jesus remained
to conversion. In spite of our weakness, we can still find
cool under pressure, and in the end, achieved what He
some way of taking part in the life of the parish community,
willed: not to condemn the woman but to reinstate her in
such as in social service, prayer meetings, and hopefully
society, with the call to conversion: “Go and sin no more”.
approaching the sacrament of confession, and eventually
As Christians, how do we respond to weakness and
the Eucharist.
irregular situations today? If we are outside of an irregular situation, we ought to be Somebody told me: “My husband left me for another
merciful and non-judgmental just like Jesus Christ.
woman. I live on my own with my children. Can I receive holy communion?” In this case, the abandoned wife is separated from her husband against her will. She feels that
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FMA Lifeline May 2016 - December 2017
Sr. Josefina Carrasco, FMA
Sr. Nieves Reboso, General Councillor for Formation, visited the Philippine – Papua New Guinea Province St. Mary Mazzarello from 18 to 26 November 2017. Due to limited time, she was able to visit only 10 communities (in the northern part of the Philippines) out of 20 communities in the province. The fruitful encounters with her have offset the shortness of time spent.
In the meetings with the sisters, Sr. Nieves developed the theme “Formation in Consecrated Life: an ever open journey”. In the context of Consecrated Life, much work has been done to implement integral formation that encompasses all the dimensions of the person, the human, Christian, and Salesian, to guide the unification of all of one’s being to the fundamental choice of Christ Jesus. Formation, a journey that is constantly being
realized, is not just acquiring knowledge, but above all, it is the progressive identification with Christ. An important step in the formative journey is to closely link the initial and on-going formation. Initial formation must create the person’s ability to be formed every day of her life. One cannot think of the initial formation except in view of the on-going formation ... There is a pre-condition for the on-going formation: the formation of the “docibilitas”. It
means and expresses much more than the word docility but is understood as being available to learn or let the Other and others teach me. From 21 to 24 November, Sr. Nieves devoted time to the two international formation houses in Canlubang, Laguna. The formands come from Asia: 9 from Sri Lanka, 7
from Myanmar, 5 from Cambodia, 2 from Thailand, 1 from Singapore, 1 from Pakistan, and 12 from the Philippines. In her encounters with them, she emphasized the richness of interculturality and the deepening of our relationship with Jesus. On November 21, the four communities in the vicinity celebrated with sr. Nieves the 140th anniversary of the first FMA missionary expedition through a prayer service and a mini theater which depicted the historical event and the missionary expansion that reached Asia. The formands danced their respective national dances converging into a finale that portrayed interculturality. On the last day of the visit, a Vocation Festival was held in Manila for about 400 youths from the FMA, SDB and other members of the Salesian Family. After the Mass and the brief greeting of Sr. Nieves, followed several formation sessions to acquaint the young about the Salesian consecrated life and to deepen the relationship with Christ. Toward the end, a mini concert was performed by the FMA Sisters and Salesian seminarians. The feedbacks of the young people have made it known that the encounter has been fruitful. -Sr. Debbie Ponsaran, FMA
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The FMA sisters teamed up with the SDB priests and brothers in the successfully carriedout Vocation Festival at Don Bosco School (DBS), Sta. Mesa, Manila on November 26 attended by 400 young people from the FMA and SDB, Caritas Sisters, Cooperators, parishes, youth organizations, and universities. The encounter had for its theme:
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and you, plans to give (Jeremiah 29:11)
Japitana, FMA; a formation on “One’s Purpose in Life” with Ms. Maan Mencias; and an encounter with the WORD of God handled by Sr. Florita Dimayuga, FMA. As one of the most awaited segments, the FMA and SDB concert did not fail to mesmerize the crowd while expressing the life of a religious. The official FMA Choir and the SDB brothers showcased their songs and danced to their own music as well. Most of all, this significant event would not have been possible without the help of the parent volunteer catechists of Don Bosco School, the Cooperators and Youth Leaders from the Salesian Youth Movement. As the event had finally approached its end, Fr. Jay David, SDB gave the final blessing to conclude the Vocation Festival. The delegates went off with their minds filled with new insights and hearts challenged to the heed of their vocation call.
not to harm you hope and a future.”
The Vocation Festival started with the Eucharistic celebration presided by Fr. Ding Cortez, SDB. To welcome the delegates, the Drum & Lyre band of DBS showcased their talent. As part of the welcome, the FMA choir serenaded everyone with their songs. After which, Sr. Nieves Reboso, FMA General Councillor for Formation, delivered her message in Italian which was translated by Sr. Florita Dimayuga, FMA. After a short break, the delegates started gathering for the carousel-styled concurrent sessions of the Vocation Festival. The stations included: a theatrical play by the FMA formands; a presentation of the SDB life by Fr. Jay David, SDB; a prayer experience facilitated by Sr. Airiz
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FMA Lifeline May 2016 - December 2017
by Diego Leandro L. Contreras
The long-awaited visit of Sr. Anna Maria Mattiussi, “Mother
After her inspiring talk, she gave us handouts to be reflected
Anna Maria,” as we used to call her fondly, made us evermore
on, deepened and shared: Welcoming Prayer, Spiritual
aware of the beauty of the last stage of our life, the immense
Tuneup, Abandonment, The Prayer of Abandonment or
joy of being genuine FMA who have vowed to live Jesus, to
Surrender.
love as He loved, to be a sign of God’s forseeing love for the
‘gut-level’sharing. We were five Sisters in our group. Each
young, to love Mary our Help. Sr. Anna Maria gave conferences
one shared her grace-faith filled journey with candidness,
on contemplation to the FMA of the Philippine province in
sincerity, with the awareness graced with God’s mercy and
several groups including a special session with the elderly
love, and Mother Mary’s maternal accompaniment that
sisters at Don Bosco School in Sta. Mesa, Manila on November
in spite of difficult moments, we have joyfully and serenely
7, 2017. She recalled her missionary life with us while she was
reached the twilight of life. What transpired in our sharing
in the Philippines since 1961. Just imagine our immense joy
was the conviction that in this moment of our life our
for such intimate, joyful, happy, familiar encounter, the joy of
minds and hearts should be focused on God’s greatness
seeing her again. Her heart to heart sharing with us was really
and goodness in affective, loving adoration, abandoning
a recharging experience. With conviction, with the witness of
ourselves trustingly to Him. One of the Sisters expressed this:
her consecrated life, she told us:
“Now that I’m in my ripe old age, I have learned to abandon
The group work was very enriching. It was a
myself to the Father. My only program becomes that of “My dear Sisters, I am here, first and foremost, to thank each one
living as a docile, simple daughter, bearing His love in my
of you. I really want you to feel my deep gratitude, thanking
heart, in any situation I find myself in. I leave my life in His
you for who you are, thanking you for the precious, dedicated
hands with joy, serenity and peace.”
lives you have given to our dear Philippine Province. Yes, with your lives full of zeal, fervour, untold sacrifices done with joy,
Savoring “the wonders of elderly years,” we could not but
patience, trust, when our Province was just beginning...
pray: “Father, here I am, take me. I leave you the whole of my life: my living and my dying. I am yours, a child for You! Make
Now, we must be contemplatives: a gaze of faith, fixed on
of me what you have in mind!” Amen.
Jesus, welcoming God’s presence in the sacred sanctuary of the core of our being, a loving, listening, joyful attentiveness.
-Sr. Gloria Agagon
Yes, dear Sisters, this is the time of “letting go” of all our desires for affection, esteem, approval, for power and control,
Editor’s note: Aside from the group of the elderly sisters, Sr.
the desire to change situations, conditions, persons. Now
Anna Maria Mattiussi also facilitated deepening moments
is the time to welcome the presence of the divine, open to
on Contemplation for the sisters according to age groups in
love, open to God’s action within: His healing action and
descending order: 1) November 3 – 4 in Pansol, Laguna; 2)
grace. Let us joyfully abandon our life to Him with full trust. He
November 18 in the FMA Provincial House, Manila; and 3)
is the “all” of our life, the only and full meaning of living.”
November 20 in the Provincial House.
May 2016 - December 2017 FMA Lifeline
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Project Mornese for FMA Animators and Formators
Thirty-six (36) FMA community leaders and formators from 5 continents participated in the Project Mornese from September 1 to 29. More than just being a geographical pilgrimage with Rome as its starting point, Turin as midpoint, and Mornese as peak experience, an inner spiritual pilgrimage unfolded. By aptly initiating their journey from no other place than Rome, the heart of the Church, the pilgrims affirmed that the FMA charism is a heartbeat that pulsates with the same passionate love with which Peter and the countless martyrs committed themselves to the sequela Christi. The visits to the Vatican City crowned by the encounter with Pope Francis during his Angelus message and blessing, to the major basilicas, and to the catacombs have powerfully reinvigorated that heartbeat by renewing the pilgrims’ faith and strengthening their sense of belonging to the Church and the Institute. As they relived the experience of Don Bosco and Mary Domenica Mazzarello who visited Rome and encountered the Vicar of Christ for reasons related to the foundational events of the SDB and FMA congregations, the pilgrims walked together in the footsteps of the Church yesterday and today, open to the enriching encounter with the diversity of a worldwide community. From the heart of the Church, the pilgrims continued their journey to Turin, the heart of the Salesian charism with which God gifted Don Bosco who was accompanied by Mary all throughout his life. The pilgrims’ steps led to the places that witnessed how the Potter’s hands moulded the heart of a poor boy of Becchi, gradually forming it according to the likeness of His very own heart so that he may love the young as their shepherd. In the light of the significant stages in Don Bosco’s life, they re-read their own experience as animators and formators and drew lessons from their Founder, learning from him the art of encounter and accompaniment of their respective communities in the Salesian spirit and style of loving-kindness.
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FMA Lifeline May 2016 - December 2017
The longest sojourn of the pilgrims could not but be in Mornese, the heart of the FMA charismatic identity, vocation, and mission. Two important and powerful icons stood out in the beloved land of Main, the well and the window which spoke eloquently to the pilgrims who, like the listening virgin, felt an irresistible invitation towards greater depth and broader vision. The wind of Mornese was also an image that blew from all directions with a Pentecostal force only to rekindle the seemingly dying embers of the pilgrims’ charismatic passion. It was a transforming homecoming to encounter Maria Domenica Mazzarello in her own home. The FMA pilgrims felt at home and sat with her at the well of the Collegio, went on a picnic with her by the Roverno river, prayed and shared with her at the Valponasca window as they send their love to Jesus in a distant tabernacle, walked in pilgrimage with her to the shrine of Madonna della Guardia at Gavi. All these moments were for the pilgrims both life-giving and mission-sending. They received life from their Mother and Teacher but they were also sent forth to give life to their communitiesin- mission. From Mornese was born the missionary vocation of every Daughter of Mary Help of Christians. It was Mother Mazzarello herself who set their hearts aflame to start learning not only the languages of the world but also the art of silently listening to the gentle voice of the Spirit so that in everything they may acquire true wisdom and joy. -Sr. Maria Socorro T. Bacani, FMA
Visit
Sr. Vilma Sr. Vilma Tallone, FMA, incumbent Economer General of the Institute of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, arrived from Rome for a brief visit to the Province of the Philippines and Papua New Guinea (FIL) from August 11 to 21, 2016. In 61 years of FMA presence in the Philippines, this is the second official visit of an Economer General. She had encounters
home with you. I admire the quality of life and commitment
with the Provincial Council, the animators and the local
of your Province. The works that you have are beautiful, the
economers, to get the feel of the challenges and the reality
schools are well-organized, activities are many and creative.
confronting the management and administration of goods
Continue to work for and with the poorest young people.
and the varied missions of the Province. Through the general
Only a heart and a life that are poor can make us authentic
assemblies in Manila for the Luzon communities and in Cebu
in working with the poor, growing with them in humanity,
for the communities in the Visayas, she was able to dialogue
in maturation, in faith and ardor for the Kingdom. You are
with all the FMA. Travelling by land, air and sea, she visited
facing many challenges: the poverty of a large part of the
16 communities out of 20 in the Province, and she met the
population, notwithstanding the progress and growth which
formands, the lay mission partners and the young people
characterize your country; the challenge of sexual abuses
involved in the mission of the communities. She also saw the
[committed] on children and young people; the challenge
structures that support the different works of the communities.
of drugs and of human rights; the challenge of education
Encountering Sr. Vilma up close, the Sisters described her as
and evangelization. All these touch our charism and the
“a woman of today and tomorrow,” who inspired us to be
economy. Deepen the style of discernment to work and
more strongly rooted in our charism and to move forward
operate with equilibrium, without jeopardizing one’s health.
with courage, hope and optimism. The guidelines she left
Continue to dream of the future, but with wise, precise and
the Sisters were practical yet anchored to our Salesian ideals.
participative planning. Continue to expand but with works
Many times she exhorted us not to limit our vision to our
that are not too vast. You have beautiful resources and the
present needs but to project them to the future.
grace of young people who ask to be formed as FMA. The
She shared with us as her parting words valuable
Institute is very grateful to you for welcoming aspirants,
encouragement and several challenges to each FMA in the
postulants and novices from other provinces. May God
FIL Province:
reward you. Continue with great courage, joy and trust in
“Thank you for your fraternal, joyful, and cordial welcome,
Providence. God’s help will never be lacking, and neither
which I appreciate and which made me feel very much at
will the support of the Institute. ” By Sr. Catherine Urgello and Sr. Rachel Flor
May 2016 - December 2017 FMA Lifeline
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The Year of Mercy Journey Don Bosco School, Sta. Mesa, Manila By Robbie Katelyn R. Bagatsing and Via Marielle C. Taño “For Mother Teresa, mercy was the salt which gave flavor to her work. It was the light which shone in the darkness of the many who no longer had tears to shed for their poverty and suffering.” – Pope Francis As part of deepening the paradoxes of faith in our Christian Living Education class and celebration of the Year of Mercy, the Grade 11 Blessed Sandor class attended a theological symposium organized by Don Bosco Center of Studies. The symposium, “Twentieth Century Face of Mercy, Honoring Mother Teresa of Calcutta” was held on September 29, 2016 at St. John Bosco Parish, Makati. The speakers were Bishop Pablo David DD (Biblico-Theological Reflection on the Face of Mercy), Bishop Gabriel Reyes, DD (LifeWitnessing as Companion of Mother Teresa), Brother Domingo “Benedict” Felicia, Missionaries of Charity (Charism and Spirit of the Missionaries of Charity).
This experience became a privileged venue for us to reflect on our relationship with Jesus and our own journey of faith. We don’t solve paradoxes. We live with them. Mother Teresa’s life was a testimony to this. Her life offers hope and encouragement to us young people whose faith is getting weak or lost. By seeking those in the peripheries, she was able to bring them back to God. We need more witnesses like this today, witnesses to the compassionate love of God that never fails to seek out the lost, the last and the least and some of them are even right in our own homes. In this forum, Bishop David shared on God’s face of mercy in the scriptures. In the Old Testament, we only saw “God’s
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FMA Lifeline May 2016 - December 2017
back” while in the New Testament, we saw the face of God’s mercy in Jesus Christ. Jesus is the Bridge who filled the “chasm” of sin between God and humankind. Bishop Reyes recounted his encounter with Mother Teresa when she started her mission with the poor of Manila. He also shared Mother Teresa’s advice to him, “Be a happy bishop. The poor are already sad. Do not forget the poor or you cannot love the Lord. Do your work with joy for we are working for the Lord.” Bro. Felicia’s sharing was on the charism and spirituality of the Missionaries of Charity. Their spirituality is loving the cross, total surrender, and cheerfulness. He is convinced that cheerfulness is indispensable in ministering to the poorest of the poor since they are already in miserable condition. They take care of the disabled, helpless and the abandoned of our society 24/7 since the greatest poverty and sadness is to die alone. In the end, our long and cold theologies will die and only the love and mercy of God will warm our faith; warm enough to offer heat to those who have grown cold in their love for the Lord. Fr. Francis Gustillo, SDB closed the encounter with these moving words: “Go out into the world and be a merciful presence to the unwanted and unloved within our family, to those unnoticed and most unloved.”
The Year of Mercy Journey Mary Help of Christians School, Calapan, Mindoro By Sr. Carminda Castalone It was during the month of the Sacred Heart when the community of Mindoro received the news that their loyal and trusted farmhand, Fedila Pamentuan, had multiple tumors in her brain, the primary source of which was later identified as lung cancer at its fourth stage. Nanay Fedila, as she is fondly called in the technical center, was then advised by the doctor to undergo radiation therapy. Her husband requested the sisters for assistance because they really didn’t have the means. The community knew that mercy could no longer be contained in words but must be translated into concrete actions. The sisters have agreed to lend the couple some amount of money. Sr. Ma. Corazon Ortañez then arranged for their accommodation at Don Bosco School, Sta. Mesa, Manila while undergoing the therapy. The sisters took turns in accompanying them in going to the hospital. These gestures of compassion did not escape the attention of the sisters and the lay mission partners of Don Bosco School and so aside from free accommodation, they also helped by providing transportation. Moved by gratitude, the husband offered a little of his time to do whatever service he could for the community of Don Bosco School.
Mornese Center of Sprituality, Pansol, Laguna By Sr. Paz Bandalan, FMA
Returning to Mindoro, the couple, then in grave financial difficulty could no longer pay for the rental of their house. Sr. Corazon asked Mrs. Mita Goco, a benefactor, for the possibility of accommodating the couple at their guest house. Later, with the approval of the Provincial Animator, Sr. Mabel Pilar, the sisters accommodated them in their compound on a temporary basis. Even the trainers and the trainees generously extended help both material and spiritual. Through these concerted efforts, what seemed to be impossible became possible. Yes, the symbolic doors of mercy in the churches have been closed but the overwhelming experience of God’s mercy will linger in the hearts and memories of those who have been personally touched by it.
The Sisters and staff had a pilgrimage to the five Jubilee Churches of the Archdiocese of Manila. It was a moving experience for all. The pilgrimage gave them a deeper understanding of God’s love through the different symbols of the mercy of God in the Churches they visited. The lives of the saints, the reflections on God’s love in front of the tombstones and other prayers helped the group to make the journey a real encounter with God. Some sisters also visited the Cathedral of the Diocese of San Pablo.
The Year of Mercy opened the “heart-door” of our community to welcome more young people from the public schools to have whole day recollections and 3-day Youth Encounters with minimal fee. The “Donasyon Mo, Retreat Ko” (Your donation, my retreat) Program has enabled us to accommodate almost 700 participants. They were young people who never had catechesis or spiritual formation. They are young people who are at risk and vulnerable. We are grateful to Hilton Funds for Sisters and other local donors for this program. With it we bring more young people not only to know Christ but to meet Him face to face in their moments of silence, prayer and in their daily life.
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The Year of Mercy Journey Mary Immaculate Aspirantate, Canlubang, Laguna Before and during the Jubilee Year of Mercy the Aspirantate community tried to keep abreast of international and local Church initiatives and directives. The support personnel were given orientation and catechesis. The oratorians, aspirants, and postulants were oriented on the significance of this extraordinary year making use particularly of the message of Pope Francis for the 31st World Youth Day 2016 “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy” (Mt 5:7). Taking on the attitude of “pilgrims of mercy” was a culture we consciously strove to create so that it may positively transform our relationships and may have its social expression in gestures of charity. Desirous to be “merciful like the Father,” we have allowed God to light our steps during the different seasons of the liturgical year. Advent and Christmas were times of responding individually to Mother General’s invitation in her Circular Letter 956 through a “mercy plan” for the year to enable each one of us to be a sign of mercy and tenderness to others in concrete ways. Lent was a loving journey filled with collective and individual practices of the corporal and spiritual works of mercy. It culminated with a pilgrimage to the five churches in the Archdiocese of Manila designated as doors of mercy and with a concrete corporal work of mercy at the Hospicio de San Jose where we offered a portion of the savings from our material sacrifices to the abandoned, sick, and elderly people. Some of our community gratitude day initiatives were also aligned to the same theme so that a moving penitential service offered us an occasion to ask forgiveness and be reconciled with one another. Walking with our resurrected Christ in the daily, we hope to be gradually transformed into persons who are merciful like the Father.
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Mary Help of Christians College, Canlubang, Laguna By Sr. Sherlin Orpilla, FMA “Be merciful like the Father” (Lk. 6:36.) These are the words we kept on hearing everywhere during the Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy which challenged us so much. To be truly merciful like the Father we have to be the concrete face of God’s mercy to all people. “Mukha ng Awa” (face of mercy), this was one of the challenges of Bishop Pablo Virgilio David during the Philippine Conference on New Evangelization (PCNE 3).
As an educating community, MHCC has taken up the challenge to live it concretely. We showed the merciful face of the Father especially to our former kindergarten teacher who is a cancer patient. The Sisters, teachers and non-teaching staff visited her regularly and this enabled her and her family to experience God’s mercy. The parents were not outdone. Having learned of the assistance being given her by the teachers and sisters in one formation session, they responded right away and without hesitation by giving their financial assistance. They knew her very well because she was the teacher of their children. Indeed, this was a truly meaningful experience of mercy as an educating community inspiring us to strive all the time to be the expression of God’s mercy to all for we are saved and loved by His infinite mercy.
The Year of Mercy Journey Day in the South. They celebrated together as Pilgrimage of Mercy. Sr. Mabel Pilar, Provincial Animator, led the pilgrimage accompanied by Sr. Catherine Urgello, Provincial Economer.
Pius XII Ladies Dormitory, Paco, Manila By Sr. Maria Josefina Carrasco, FMA This is indeed a grace-filled year, having been declared by Pope Francis as an extraordinary jubilee year of Mercy. Together with some Sisters and boarders of the Ladies’ Dormitory of Pius XII Catholic Center, the VIDES Philippine and Italian volunteers made their pilgrimage on September 24, 2016 to the five jubilee churches of the Archdiocese of Manila, namely: Santuario de Sto. Cristo (San Juan City), Shrine of the Divine Mercy (Mandaluyong City), National Shrine of the Sacred Heart (Makati City), Our Lady of Sorrows Parish (Pasay City), and the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception / Metropolitan Cathedral of Manila (Intramuros). They took time-out from their studies, work, and volunteering activities in order to join this pilgrimage which had so much meaning for them. Aside from visiting the Churches for the first time, what struck the pilgrims most were the prayers made at the burial sites and the almsgiving for specific beneficiaries. The pilgrims also offered prayers for the intentions of the FMA PhilippinePNG province, educating communities, and their families. At the end of the pilgrimage, they joyfully received the certificates signed by His Eminence Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle. ………………………………………………………………………………. Cebu and Negros Occidental communities On November 12, 2016, 200 representatives from 5 FMA Educating Communities of Negros and Cebu gathered for the first Provincial Educating Community Gratitude
The celebration opened with a simple ritual of entrance through the Holy Door of the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral. The Eucharistic celebration was presided by His Excellency Jose Palma, Archbishop of Cebu. In his homily, Archbishop Palma acknowledged the FMA Educating Community for its commitment to the Salesian educational mission that builds the local Church. His reflection was drawn from the Gospel image of Jesus whose heart was moved with mercy upon seeing the multitude. Education is a manifestation of the compassion of Jesus. Education is a work of mercy. He affirmed the joint collaboration of the FMA, lay educators and parents in the realization of this God-given mission to St. John Bosco. He challenged the students to value the Catholic education they receive as a blessing and a call to mission. He also made them aware that such blessing sends them forth to become
instruments of mercy to others especially the poor. After the Mass, lunch was shared by all followed by a short program as a sign of gratitude to the provincial animator, Sr. Mabel. In her message to the Educating Community of the South, she expressed her heartfelt appreciation for the initiative of starting the Provincial Gratitude Day for the communities of Negros and Cebu which forges the bonds of communion. She thanked in particular the FMA communities for spearheading the animation of this meaningful closing of the Jubilee Year of Mercy.
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The Year of Mercy Journey Mary Our Help Technical Institute for Women, Mabalacat, Pampanga By Sr. Maria Lourdes Virginia Fernando, FMA One with the Church in the celebration of the Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy, the SYM Touchdown of Mary
Our Help Technical Institute for Women (MOHTIW) Pampanga for the school year 2015-2016 culminated with the pilgrimage to the Jubilee Doors of the different Churches in Pampanga on March 9, 2016. Sr. Anita Miranda, Sr. Carina Canlas, and Sr. Maria Lourdes Virginia Fernando, together with the students, some teachers and office staff went on a pilgrimage to the Metropolitan Cathedral of San Fernando City, the Holy Rosary Parish and the Apung Mamacalulu Archdiocesan Shrine both in Angeles City, where they attended the Holy Mass, and later prayed the prayers of pilgrimage and the rosary. Msgr. Eugenio G. Reyes, J.C.D. PA, Rector of the San Fernando Cathedral shared information on the history of the Cathedral of the Assumption as it was formerly named. Aside from enjoying the experience, everyone was grateful and felt truly blest by this jubilee pilgrimage. Foremost in appreciating this special blessing were the students who experienced what it means to go on a pilgrimage for the first time. They were in awe upon knowing that the pilgrimage bestowed on them the plenary indulgence granted by this special occasion which they also understood as part of their journey towards holiness.
St. Mary Mazzarello Novitiate, Canlubang, Laguna By Sr. Regina Mae Sermonia (Novice) Have you ever experienced being angry with God? Blaming Him for your losses and hurts in life? Most of us tend to hide our true feelings especially the negative ones and think ourselves wise and good even in front of God. The Psalmist in the Old Testament also felt abandoned by God but unlike us he honestly expressed his feelings to God and kept on hoping for His consolation. I too, have experienced being angry with God and I was not aware of it until it reached the point when I was already expressing this anger to the persons around me. “What is your own image of God?” This was the question of our formator in one of our conferences. When I reflected on it, I suddenly felt an immense anger and unforgiveness within me because at that moment I saw God as one of those persons in authority who had hurt me in the past. I blamed Him for apparently not doing anything. It took me a lot of honesty, openness, and courage to acknowledge the fact that I was really angry with God but this also gave me the opportunity to delve deeper into my relationship with Him. After an honest to goodness dialogue with Him, I know and I believe that God will never abandon or betray me. I have realized that I was just looking for someone to blame instead of facing my issues head on. It was I who needed forgiveness for my lack of trust in God who knows what’s best for me. God patiently led me through this journey in the Year of Mercy.
In loving memory of Sr. Silvia B. Asico, FMA March 26, 1934 – July 9, 2016
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LVF award from National Child Labor Committee The National Child Labor Committee (NCLC) awarded its recognition to Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. as its Anti-child Labor Program partner for its valuable contribution to the prevention and elimination of child labor. Sr. Phebe Lacse, FMA accepted the award from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Labor Relations and Special Concerns Undersecretary Joel B. Maglunsod, on behalf of Sr. Marivic P. Sta. Ana, FMA. It was held on December 6, 2017 at Hotel Jen, Pasay City. The awarding is part of the project “Makiisa para sa #1MBatangMalaya” (United in ending child labor of 1 million children), a collective effort of the members of the NCLC with DOLE in the lead, to combat child labor in the Philippines.
SMMS Past Pupils Homecoming Past pupils of former St. Mary Mazzarello School (SMMS) Batch 97 hosted and Batch 92 co-hosted the Past Pupils Homecoming in Victorias City, Negros Occidental on December 30, 2017 on the theme, “Reminiscing cherished memories of living the Salesian Spirit.”
Mary Help of Christians of Marawi The statue of Maria Auxiliadora de los Cristianos de Marawi replaced the usual pilgrim statue of Mary Help of Christians in this year’s 38th Grand Marian Procession on December 3, 2017 in Intramuros, Manila where some FMA from Manila communities attended. The statue, commissioned by Nolan Angeles, a Don Bosco alumnus, will be donated to the St. Mary’s Cathedral in Marawi, as a gift of hope to the people of Marawi. The statue of Mary Help of Christians in the Cathedral was desecrated and damaged by the Maute ISIS attack on May 23, 2017.
SYM Formation The Salesian Youth Movement (SYM) facilitated the formation session for the National Core Group and Salesian Youth Group Team on November 30, 2017 at Don Bosco School, Sta. Mesa, Manila. The participants lived an experience of the different facets of the Youth Ministry with the Emmaus story as framework. They were also given venues to deepen their vocation, identity, and roles as Salesian animators and leaders. Activities included prayer moments, interactive workshops and inputs, as well as personal time for reflection.
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Seminar on UN Human Rights Council Sr. Sarah Garcia gave a seminar on the United Nations and the UNHRC (UN Human Rights Council) and the work of IIMA (the FMA Institute’s Office of Human Rights in Geneva) and VIDES (the FMA Institute’s NGO for volunteering and promoting education and development of women and children). She met the participants in three groups: the FMA Asian formands on November 17, the junior sisters on November 18, and the FMA Youth Ministry Team on November 22, 2017. Both IIMA and VIDES have Special Consultative Statute at the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) of the United Nations. Sr. Sarah Garcia presently works at IIMA in Geneva. IIMA is in charge of coordinating inputs from the FMA in the 94 countries where they are present. Through their ministry with the young, the Sisters are able to provide insights on the reality of young people drawing from their day-to-day interactions with them. This forms the basis of the FMA Institute’s contributions to discussions in the UN Human Rights Council meetings.
Educating Community Gratitude Day Negros cluster
The Educating Community Gratitude Day Negros Occidental cluster was held on November 18, 2017 in Victorias, Negros. There were around 200 persons. It started with the Mass, then the very festive program. . In her message, Sr. Mabel Pilar, provincial animator, emphasized the role of the family in the growth of vocation. It was raining hard for the past days but during the celebration it was sunny. The strong rain returned right after! Even the weather cooperated.
Psycho-Spiritual Integration (PSI) Seminar for Formands Sixteen formands underwent PSI-Awake on November 13 - 26, 2017 at Mary Immaculate Aspirantate, Canlubang. It is a program of Emmaus Center for Psycho-Spiritual Formation facilitated by Miss Francisca Bustamante, Mr. Dave Daulo, and Fr. Eduardo Molina. The PSI framework encompasses the four dimensions of the self namely: pneuma, human spirit, psycho-emotional, and physical. This serves to complement the existing formation plan and initiate formands into a systematic psycho-spiritual approach to self-awareness and develop in them a discerning disposition within the context of a life call. The formands are deeply grateful for this opportunity.
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140th Anniversary of the first FMA missionary expedition The Institute of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA) throughout the world celebrated the 140th anniversary of the first FMA Missionary Expedition on November 14, 2017. The first six FMA missionaries, all of them very young, disembarked from Genoa, Italy for Montevideo, Uruguay on November 14, 1877. The expedition was headed by Sr. Angela Vallese; she was only 23 years old. Today the FMA Institute is present in 94 countries with 1,388 communities and more than 12,000 sisters. The Province of the Philippines and Papua New Guinea likewise celebrated in clusters. Notable among these celebrations was that of Sideia Islands, Papua New Guinea which was actually re-enacted with a boat ride! Meanwhile, the Manila cluster celebration was made special by the presence of Sr. Anna Maria Mattiussi who was missionary in the Philippines for many years and Sr. Fosca Barco, an Italian missionary and the only remaining missionary in the Philippines.
Educating Community Gratitude Day Cebu Cluster The Educating Community Gratitude Day Cebu Cluster was held on November 11, 2017 in Mary Help of Christians School, Minglanilla, Cebu with the theme, “One Family, One Faith, One Fellowship: Seedbed of Vocations. In her message, Sr. Mabel Pilar, provincial animator, emphasized the role of the family in the growth of vocation. It started with the celebration of the Holy Mass followed by a program in which each community performed numbers consisting of songs and dances. There were food and game booths as part of the fund raising for PECCG projects and the “Bahay na Pangarap”. The afternoon was full of exciting friendly matches of basketball, volleyball and badminton.
“Heal our land” procession at EDSA On November 5, 2017, a good number of FMA, lay and young people from Metro Manila FMA communities -- Provincial house, Don Bosco School, and Laura Vicuña Center in Cubao -attended the Holy Mass at the EDSA Shrine of Mary Queen of Peace to pray for our country and protest against extra-judicial killings. It was immediately followed by the “Heal Our Land” procession from EDSA shrine to the People Power Monument. The rosary was prayed throughout the procession. Banners and placards bore the title, “Stop the killing, Start the healing.”
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Provincial Triennial Evaluation The Province of St. Mary Mazzarello – Philippines and Papua New Guinea held the triennial evaluation from 27 to 30 October 2017. With the provincial animator, Sr. Mabel Pilar, 32 sisters from the Philippines and three sisters from Papua New Guinea gathered at Mornese Center of Spirituality in Pansol, Laguna, Philippines. The educating community composed of 14 persons participated on October 29. Among them were parents, teachers, collaborators, past pupil, students, VIDES volunteer, and oratorians. Some highlights of the events are: a moment of the Holy Spirit, moments of fraternity among the sisters and the educating community, of welcoming the truth of the province, and of being ever more “transformed by the encounter, together with the young, missionaries of hope and joy.”
Soft blessing of “Bahay na pangarap” The soft blessing of the Bahay na Pangarap (house for the elderly sisters) was held on October 31, 2017. Fr. Gerry Martin, SDB blessed the land where the building will soon rise. Present were the provincial animator, Sr. Mabel Pilar; Sr. Anna Maria Mattiussi, missionary and first provincial animator of FMA-Philippines and at present residing in Italy; the FMA and formands.
LVF 5th Family Congress The Laura Vicuña Foundation (LVF) conducted its 5th LVF Family Congress with the theme “Pamilya Ko, Alagaan Ko” on October 8, 2017 at La Salle Greenhills, San Juan City. Five hundred fifty (550) participants coming from the Child Protection Clinic on Wheels outreach areas and the Salesian Oratory Centers attended the activity. Sr. Cathy Urgello, FMA, one of LVF’s Board of Directors gave an inspirational message. Fr. Eli Cruz gave an inspiring and informative talk on some articles of Amoris Laetitia. He showed short videos which depicted real family life situations. Sr. Marivic Sta. Ana, LVF Managing Director, concluded the Family Congress with a challenge: “Families as a school of life and love, take care of their families by communicating their pains and joys, resolving conflicts by dialoguing, forgiving and listening to each member of the family and praying together.”
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Seminars on Communication Sr. Debbie Ponsaran facilitated a series of seminars for the FMA and lay collaborators in the Philippines, Cambodia, and Myanmar. The topics were the following: Asian Communication Spirituality; Educommunication and the Salesian Charism in Asian Context; Culture of Communication, Religious life, Youth Ministry, and Evangelization. The seminars in the Philippines were held in clusters: Negros cluster on June 6 & 7, Cebu cluster on June 8 to 10, Pansol cluster on June 11 & 12, for the formands on June 26 & 27, 2017. The seminar in Cambodia was held in Phnom Penh FMA Provincial House on June 15 to 22 in two groups and extra days for the hands-on technical workshop in computer skills and applications. The seminar in Myanmar was held in Mandalay on July 8 to 12, a longer period like in Cambodia because of the hands-on seminar for computer applications. Sr. Debbie had worked for seven years in the Social Communications Sector of the FMA Generalate in Rome and returned to the Philippine province in September 2017.
7th Asian Youth Day in Indonesia I felt so blessed to be chosen as the delegate of the Salesian Youth Movement of the FMA in the 7th Asian Youth Day that was held in Indonesia on July 30 to August 2, 2017. The theme was “Joyful Asian Youth! Living the Gospel in Multicultural Asia.� I was also chosen as representative from the Philippines for the 7th Asian Youth Ministers’ Meeting. It was my first time to go abroad and attend big youth gatherings such as these. I have learned a lot of things such as knowledge/skills in educating the young, unique practices of dioceses and organization set-ups, and formative activities that integrally mold the young. Amidst all the challenges including personal struggles, I realized that the youth today has a bright future. Given all the opportunities and information at hand, we can easily promote and understand our Christian faith and values despite our multicultural differences and language barriers. -Ferl Larosa
Conference on New Evangelization In response to the call of Pope Francis on the New Evangelization, the Archdiocese of Manila held its 3rd Philippine Conference on New Evangelization from July 28 to 30, 2017 at the University of Santo Tomas, Manila. This Conference was attended mostly by catechists throughout the Philippines. A good number of Salesian Sisters and formands also took advantage of this opportunity for updating.
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Asian Youth Ministry Meeting in Japan The Youth Ministry Team together with Sr. Mabel Pilar, provincial animator, attended the CIAO Youth Ministry Meeting held in Yamanaka, Japan from April 25 to May 2, 2017. It was a fruitful and significant meeting of the Youth Ministry Sector at the CIAO level. CIAO means Conferenza Interispettoriale Asia Orientale, translated in English means East Asian Interprovincial Conference which is composed of the provinces of Hong Kong and Taiwan; Cambodia and Myanmar; Philippines and Papua New Guinea; Japan; Korea and Mongolia; Thailand; East Timor and Indonesia; and Vietnam. The meeting focused on realignment and common understanding of how this sector functions and coordinates. The richness shown by each province was a beautiful sign that our Salesian charism is very much alive in Asia!
SYM Camp on Leadership The
Salesian
Movement
(SYM)
Youth has
successfully carried out the three-day LEAD Camp from May 17 to 19, 2017 at Mary Help of Christians School, Mabalacat, Pampanga with the theme, “Salesian Youth, Apostles of Mercy.” LEAD means Leadership, Empowerment, Awareness, and Discipleship. The delegates for the LEAD Camp were 117 youth leaders from different Salesian Sisters schools. Facilitators for this camp were the members of the OCCI Fullness of Life Foundation in partnership with The Rizal Academy for Innovation and Leadership (TRAIL) who advocate Systems thinking and its tools that evaluate more critically the daily and practical problems and dilemmas in this modern era. They also presented the different mental models and the advantages of the “Win-Win” solution, a systematic thinking that could give positive results to both parties. The shared vision activity was made through interconnecting some of the Systems Thinking lessons from the different levels of perspectives: specific events, behavioral patterns, underlying structures, and mental models. The concept of sustainability and essence of selflessness were connected to the global ecological problems. - Diego Leandro L. Contreras
Past Pupils benefit concert On February 11, 2017, the FMA Past Pupils successfully organized and held the “Eat, Sing, Love, Share,” a pre-Valentine benefit concert for the Bahay na Pangarap project, a dream home for the elderly FMA. Sr. Mabel Pilar, provincial animator, and Sr. Rachel Flor, Past Pupils in-charge graced the event.
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Formation seminars with Sr. Runita Borja, General Councillor for Youth Ministry Right after the celebration of the 25th anniversary of religious profession of Sr. Runita Borja, General Councillor for Youth Ministry, she conducted formation seminars in the Philippine Province. On May 26, 2017, she met with the provincial council, community animators, and local councils in Mornese Center of Spirituality in Pansol, Calamba City.
In her message, she emphasized subsidiarity, cultivating good
interpersonal relationships, accountability, service of authority, vocation culture, and the community in mission. The following day, she met with the youth ministry sector heads, the provincial council, and community animators for the youth ministry seminar. She presented the new composition of the Youth Ministry Sector which since after the 23rd General Chapter has included the VIDES and the Office of Human Rights. She also reiterated the importance of strengthening the family ministry, the “Oratorian heart”, and the educational environment. She further explained the document “Guidelines for the Educational Mission of the FMA” and the anthropological vision of man. Sr. Runita Borja is a Filipina sister who worked as collaborator in the Youth Ministry Sector of the FMA Generalate in Rome from the year 2004 – 2014. In February 2015, she was appointed as new General Councillor for Youth Ministry in Rome, Italy.
Mangrove reforestation by the Educating Community Challenged by the message of Pope Francis in his encyclical letter “Laudato Si” the Provincial Educating Community launched the Family Camp focusing on Family and Ecology. It was held at Mary Help of Christians Technology Center, Calapan, Oriental Mindoro from April 21 to 22, 2017. Mangrove planting was the highlight of the camp. The participants made resolutions to be agents and guardians of the environment so that the next generations will still have the chance to enjoy clean air and water. The mangrove planting was held at Barangay Silonay Calapan City.
Visit of the Japanese General Councilor On February 15, 2017, the FMA Aspirantate community welcomed Sr. Maria Assunta Sumiko Inoue, Visiting Councilor for the Stella Maris Province, who specifically came to meet the postulant and aspirant of Stella Maris. On February 16, the four FMA communities from the Laguna cluster gathered at the Aspirantate’s Don Bosco Multi-purpose Hall for the “thank-you and good-bye supper” for Sr. Inoue. The Formands dressed in their national costumes expressed their gratitude to her through their cultural presentation. In her good night talk, she thanked the Sisters for welcoming and accompanying young girls from different Asian countries. She also shared about Pope Francis’ message to the young people on the occasion of the last World Youth Day in Brazil. Sr. Inoue reiterated the call for all to go out of our comfort zones and be motivated to counteract the culture of relativism, individualism and consumerism by being missionaries of mercy among ourselves.
Holy Trinity Academy Grand Reunion The Holy Trinity Academy (Balic-balic, Manila) Girls’ Department held the Grand Reunion on November 26, 2016 at Don Bosco School, Sta. Mesa, Manila. Around 400 past pupils joined the reunion with the theme, “58@58 Balictanaw, Balic-saya vez 2.0.” Each batch of graduates presented a number. They also had sharing of significant experiences with the Sisters especially during their high school years.
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VIDES Livelihood and Development Center On November 20, 2016, ten months after the inauguration of the VIDES Livelihood and Development Center for Women and their Families (LDCWF) and ground-breaking of the construction of the VIDES Bakery, the blessing of the completed facility was held. The Center, which stands on a 107 square meter lot, seeks to provide a venue for women empowerment, especially in the field of economic independence and sustainability. The two-storey building houses a bakery, a sewing room, and a small office which takes charge of microcredit and other livelihood projects. The LDCWF provides livelihood opportunities for the former informal settlers from Barangay 143 in Pasay City who were relocated to Trece Martires in Cavite. The more than 1,500 households have been bereft with viable sources of income due to the remoteness of the relocation site and the unavailability of job opportunities in the community.
SYM seminar on gender sensitivity The Salesian Youth Movement (SYM) National Team successfully completed a seminar-workshop on Gender Sensitivity on November 5, 2016 at Don Bosco School, Sta. Mesa, Manila. The workshop participants were selected young people from the Salesian Sisters schools. The SYM National Team invited speakers from the Coalition Against Trafficking in Women Asia-Pacific (CATWAP). Ms. Clydie Pasia and Ms. Jean Enriquez, the Executive Director, facilitated the workshop. The testimony of a prostitution survivor, who is now the president of an advocacy group for women, was a moving experience for all. The survivor said that there is a deeper story behind all that had happened to women like her. She is HIV-positive yet she, just like her disease, remains “positive in life”. The participants were asked to write down the things they could do to respond to the call for gender equality and sensitivity. - Diego Leandro L. Contreras
LVF Child Protection Clinic in Cavite The Laura Vicuña Foundation (LVF) Child Protection Clinic (CPC) mission house and office in Heneral Uno, Cavite City had its house blessing on October 14, 2016. The CPC is one of the programs of LVF which aims to create a culture of protection for children, the weakest and most defenseless in society by offering learning sessions on children’s rights, protective behavior, protection from and prevention of abuse; catechesis; and a help desk for those who seek assistance against abuse. After two years of hosting child protection activities in Heneral Uno, Gen. Trias a new Laura Vicuña Foundation’s (LVF) Mission House and Office was blessed on October 14. Mr. Lynn Sy invited LVF to establish a basic ecclesial community among 2,365 low-income migrant families at the socialized housing project of SHDC under SM Land Property as well as its neighboring communities. The blessing was attended by over a hundred persons: residents of the area, Salesian Sisters, LVF staff , children & Atenean volunteers and the officers and engineers of SHDC of the SM group. The blessing was followed by an agape, a thank you message and song rendition by the LVC CPC kids of Heneral Uno, Quezon City and LVTC trainees of Sta. Mesa.
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Local World Youth Day The Salesian Youth Movement of the FMA and SDB hosted a local World Youth Day at Don Bosco School, Sta. Mesa, Manila on July 30-31, 2016. Seven hundred (700) youths attended not only from the FMA and SDB but also from the Federation of National Youth Organizations of the Philippines and students from different schools, colleges, universities and parishes of the Archdiocese of Manila. The Catechetical talk, patterned after the World Youth Day (WYD) theme, “Blessed are the Merciful,” was given by Fr. Joji Inocentes, SDB. The most awaited Youth Festival was well planned and prepared by the different groups with much creativity. The FMA and the SDB prepared the God Academy which aimed to serve as a resource center for vocational discernment of the young people. Other “academies” were the Family Academy; Film Academy which featured the lives of WYD patron saints like St. Faustina Kowalska and St. John Paul II; Sports and Recreation; Cafe FM which talked about the millennial culture and volunteerism among the youth. The Way of the Cross and Adoration were touching moments for all participants. The Sacrament of Penance was available all throughout the event. At exactly 2:15 in the morning Philippine time, all participants were watching Pope Francis on the screen through the live stream. The event concluded with a Eucharistic celebration and the exchange of souvenirs of all the participants.
Project Mornese in Italy The Project Mornese for the English-speaking group from different countries was held on June 1 – 28 in Rome, Mornese, and Turin, Italy. Among the 42 sisters who participated were four sisters from the Philippines:
Sr.
Erlinda Soriano, Sr. Arlene Rafaela, Sr. Ailyn Cayanan, and Sr. Ann Lyn Magno who share their experience. “Our first five days were spent in Rome. We were so blessed to be able to attend the Mass at the Vatican presided by Pope Francis. We have visited important churches and received plenary indulgences as we entered the doors of mercy. The highlight of these first five days was the encounter with Mother General Yvonne Reungoat and the General Councillors. They were so kind and generous to spend with us more than two hours of sharing and dialogue. Our five days in Turin made us go deeper into the humble beginnings of Don Bosco in Valdocco and Chieri, and left us in great awe and reverence at the marvelous plan of God for him and the Salesian family. As we travelled from Turin to Mornese, our hearts fluttered in great anticipation of the best part of the experience. Our first sight of the Collegio was enough to bring tears of joy for the difficult yet beautiful beginnings of our Institute. Being Project Mornese pilgrims in the Year of Mercy rekindled our love for the Church and commitment to its evangelizing mission. We were challenged to extend a merciful gaze toward others, as Don Bosco and Mother Mazzarello had done, and to live in the concrete realities as missionary disciples on the way to holiness with young people.” -Sr. Ann Lyn Magno, FMA
May 2016 - December 2017 FMA Lifeline
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11th VIDES International Convention in Italy On July 15, 2016, the VIDES General Elective Assembly took place at the Salesian Generalate in Rome. Sr. Debbie Ponsaran, a Filipina sister, was among those elected for the second term in the VIDES General Council. On July 16-18, the 11th VIDES International Convention with the theme “Love your neighbour as yourself” was also held at Salesianum. Sr. Josefina Carrasco, from VIDES Philippines, was among the 120 sisters and volunteers who participated originating from 32 countries in Europe, America, Asia, and Africa. Fr. Giuseppe Bettoni, Founder of the ARCHE Association Onlus, opened the convention speaking on the theme: “Love for self and Volunteering: what is the relationship?” On July 17, Msgr. Silvano Tomai, Apostolic Nuncio at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, discussed the topic: “Love of Neighbour and Human Rights”. On July 18, Professor Stefano Zamagni, Economist and Professor at the University of Bologna spoke on the theme, “Volunteering among institutions – power, rights, and freedom”. After each presentation there were workshops and sharing in the assembly. On the last day, Mother Yvonne Reungoat, Superior General of the FMA Institute, gave her concluding message. Also present was Sr. Runita Borja, a Filipina sister who is the General Councillor for Youth Ministry. The concluding Mass was celebrated by the Salesian Rector Major, Fr. Angel Fernandez Artime. In his homily, he expressed his joy and gratitude for the good that VIDES is doing in various contexts through the education of the young.
FMA Benefit Concert “N.O.T.A. Bene,” a benefit concert by the FMA N.O.T.A. (Nuns of the Above), in collaboration with the Past Pupils Association, offered two nights of music and dance on July 23 – 24, 2016 in Minglanilla and Punta Princesa, Cebu. The proceeds are for the construction of the Bahay na Pangarap project, a dream home for the elderly FMA.
Seminar on Lay-Religious Partnership The provincial team coordinators and members and all sisters involved in the school ministry gathered on June 1 and 2, 2016 at Mornese Center of Spirituality in Calamba City for a formative encounter. Sr. Josefina Magat, ra, former Provincial Superior of the Religious of the Assumption, was the resource speaker of the Seminar on Lay-Religious Partnership. She made use of the Appreciative Inquiry (AI) model to engage the Sisters in self-determined change, especially from the Sisters’ perspective of their mission. Although already quite familiar with AI, the Sisters were helped to understand that the journey toward change is a process that is gradual and has to be owned by all to arrive at the goals. Together with Sr. Josefina, Mrs. Ma. Socorro Villafania co-facilitated the sessions. Mrs. Socorro’s presence in the encounter was a strong witness to the forging of authentic partnership with the lay in the ministry. Sr. Josefina challenged the group based on their experience of the mission in the province, to plan a collective design based on what the province should start, stop and continue doing in the next five years in the different apostolates as a concrete response to the challenge posed by the 23rd General Chapter. Through the gentle but decisive guidance of Sr. Josefina, the encounter ended with the group being able to come up with concrete plans of action for the specific ministries assigned to them.
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FMA Lifeline May 2016 - December 2017
Retreats with Sr. Kathleen Taylor Sr. Kathleen Taylor, FMA, former General Councillor, facilitated the annual eight-day retreat in three groups for the sisters of the Philippine – Papua New Guinea Province in April and May 2016. She deepened some topics from the General Chapter: an encounter that forms and transforms, together with the young called to be a missionary of hope and joy.
She added other relevant topics: forgiveness
and reconciliation, from the desert to daily life, and living within the dream.
MHC College Graduation The 1st commencement exercises for the 21 graduates of Bachelor of Arts in Religious Education of Mary Help of Christians College (Canlubang) was held on April 8, 2016 in the school gymnasium. The college department received its permit to operate from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) in 2011. The preschool, elementary, junior and senior high school departments are PAASCU Accredited Level II. The school was established in 1979.
Oratory in Pari village, Papua New Guinea The FMA community in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea started to work and animate the oratory in Pari village in August 2015. At the invitation of Fr. Sonny Fajardo and the SDB community in Gabutu, the sisters organized the Sunday oratory with the youths and children of the village which is a sub-parish of the Mary Help of Christians parish under the care of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The ministry also included the family home visitation right from the start. This work for the young and their families are carried out with the active participation of the resident ladies in the Mary Our Help dormitory who take turns in animating and preparing for the Sunday apostolate. A characteristic of this oratory center is the collaborative efforts of the parents led by the village chairman, the youths and the catechists. As a faith community situated in a periphery which is predominantly non-Catholic, it is steadily growing in its Salesian character and identity as an LKK (Liklik Katolik Komuniti – small Catholic community of the urban poor in the city.)
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May 24, 2016 25th Anniversary of Religious Profession of (from left to right) Sr. Jessica SalvaĂąa, FMA (Provincial Animator of Cambodia-Myanmar); Sr. Maria Lourdes Fernando, FMA; Sr. Josefina Impelido, FMA; Sr. Maria Clara Alacapa, FMA; Sr. Maria Elizabeth Marquez, FMA, missionary in Africa; Sr. Therese Yvonne Jance, FMA; Sr. Teresita Padron, FMA; and Sr. Phebe Lacse, FMA, held at St. John Bosco Parish, Makati.
August 5, 2016 Jubilarians (from left to right) Sr. Nora Hernandez, FMA and Sr. Linda Villanueva, FMA celebrated their 40th anniversary of religious profession while Sr. Maria Paz Salcedo, FMA and Sr. Gloria Agagon, FMA celebrated their 50th anniversary of religious profession at Don Bosco School Chapel, Sta. Mesa, Manila.
May 23, 2017
May 24, 2016 Perpetual Profession of (left to right) Sr. Mylene Sanchez, FMA from Pampanga and Sr. Leila Montero, FMA from Mindoro, held at St. John Bosco Parish, Makati
First Profession of Sr. Julia Karen Ashraf, FMA at Mornese Center of Spirituality, Pansol, Calamba City. She is the first FMA from Pakistan. Sr. Julia got to know of the FMA through the Salesians in Pakistan who belong to the SDB Philippine Province. After a year of preparation with the Salesians in Quetta city, she was finally sent to the Philippines in 2009. The FMA are not yet present in Pakistan. Therefore, Sr. Julia belongs to the Philippine Province and is presently assigned in the community of Mary Help of Christians College in Canlubang, Laguna.
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FMA Lifeline May 2016 - December 2017
May 24, 2017 25th Anniversary of Religious Profession of (from top left to right, then bottom left to right) Sr. Sarah Grace Robas, FMA; Sr. Ravena Dominguez, FMA, missionary in Africa; Sr. Ma. Cristina Villasanta, FMA, missionary in Papua New Guinea; Sr. Marie Therese Ampil, FMA; Sr. Margarita Imanil, FMA; Sr. Melanie Pilar, FMA; Sr. Christie Carlos, FMA; Sr. Runita Borja, FMA, General Councillor for Youth Ministry, Rome, Italy; and Sr. Maria Imelda David, FMA, held at St. John Bosco Parish, Makati.
August 5, 2017 Jubilarians, Sr. Fosca Barco, FMA Italian missionary celebrated her 70th anniversary of religious profession while Sr. Celia Tacujan, FMA celebrated her 40th anniversary of religious profession at Don Bosco School Chapel, Sta. Mesa, Manila. Sr. Aniceta Saligumba also celebrated her 40th anniversary of religious profession in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea.
May 24, 2017 – Perpetual Profession of Sr. Airiz Ann Japitana, FMA from Negros Occidental, held at St. John Bosco Parish, Makati.