Mater Spei DigiMagz

AN OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF YMC ALUMNI

EIGHTH ISSUE

MATERei Sp

Mary, Mother

Charity OF

TABLE OF

CONTENTS 01 03 06 09 14 17 21 22 31

Editor’s Note Animators’ Wall Trainors’ Wall Lamp & Light Marian Corner Story of YMC Alumnus Tagpuan SR Night Vocation Story Reflection from an MMHC Brother

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Editor’s Note

MERON AT MERON HAVE YOU EVER EXPERIENCED SCARCITY? In one way or another, I know that we all did.

Just like in this Digital Magazine…

That feeling of fear that brings anxiety…

Would you believe that it’s now our 2nd year of doing this?

That sense of despair which bothers us even when we’re trying to go to sleep…

That confusion which brings in moments of doubt in our heart…

Difficult, isn’t it?

But I do really find it amazing that, in those times that we feel that we’re not enough and we don’t have enough, God finds a way to make us realize that He’s really the One who can truly fill us.

That’s just how fast time flies.

There were a lot of times wherein we felt that we could not anymore publish this because we sometimes lack writers and designers..

Real talk. Talagang minsan, nagiging sobrang busy tayo to the point na nawawalan na tayo ng oras na gawin ung mga dapat nating gawin or ung mga

Madalas, ang naiisip nalang natin, ay ung sarili natin.

That is why, I really consider the mere fact that we’re able to push for this, as a grace from God obtained through the intercession of Mama Mary.

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Editor’s Note

MERON AT MERON Kasi kahit minsan, pakiramdam natin na walang wala na, meron at meron pa ding ibinibigay si Lord.

That is why, as you turn the pages of this precious fruit of our labors, we pray that you would be able to encounter Christ and Mama Mary through the experiences, insights, sharings and reflections written in this magazine.

As we journey through this special issue, we invite you to reflect on how Mary's example can inspire us to live lives of charity. Whether it is a kind word, a simple gesture, or a significant sacrifice, every act of love can bring light into someone's life.

On this anniversary of Mater Spei, let us renew our commitment to be a community that mirrors Mary's charitable heart. Let us be a beacon of hope and love, supporting one another and spreading Christ's love through our actions.

This edition is our gift to you, our beloved Youth for Mary and Christ community. May it inspire you, uplift you, and remind you of the incredible love that binds us all together. As we celebrate this milestone, let us carry forward the spirit of Mary, Mother of Charity, in all that we do.

-MARON ANTHONY RODRIGUEZEDITOR-IN-CHIEF OF MATER SPEI

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Animators’ Wall Hello everyone, my name is Arnold S. Cabaluna, YMC Animator of Mataas na Paaralang Neptali a Gonzales (MPNAG) Mandaluyong City.

I started as a YMC animator at Mandaluyong High School in 2003. I was a PEHM teacher during that time handing Second Year students. Tita Emma Salameña was invited to attend the First Friday Vigil in Sto. Rosario Parish and without a second thought, I said yes to her.

Way back to my life before in Iloilo, my family is religious in nature, my mother asking me to be with her to attend catholic masses and lots of religious gatherings and activities. I grew up with the teaching of the Catholic Church and eventually realizing how to be faithful to God. I am also involved in different church organizations. One of my unforgettable involvements was during a year of immersion program in 1999-2000. It was a year of volunteer work facilitated by the Associate Missionaries of the Assumption (AMA). The program was participated by Filipino and foreign young volunteers. In my batch, we were 12 assigned in different affiliated areas all over the Philippines. My area of assignment was in General Natividad, Nueva Ecija in Central Luzon as a classroom teacher.

Since I am new in teaching at the same time in that place, I experienced hardships and many challenges along the way and that was the time also I learned to pray hard and seek the help from God, eventually granted and survived that year of volunteer work.

The First Friday Vigil in Sto. Rosario Parish, Pasig City was another realization in my life. “I thought I had done with those religious activities and prayerful environment but again here I am”. That was my thought while I’m on my way to the parish. To my surprise, around 400 – 500 young students were there with their teacher animator inside the church kneeling and praying.

4 __________________ “Is this for real?”

I SAID TO MYSELF BECAUSE AT THAT TIME, YOUNGER GENERATIONS ARE OBSESSED WITH COMPUTERS.

Yes, they spent a lot of time playing and spending sleepless nights on that. But now here they are, kneeling and praying together. What a beautiful picturesque young generation devoted themselves to God. I moved and I decided to continue my journey with YMC. As I go on, I encounter priests, seminarians and other animators. I started to learn that they are interconnected and each of them is having a role in the whole congregation. So as an animator, I started to assist and facilitate our local YMC members and as much as possible, our members will have to attend a whole year round YMC activities. To mention a few, First Friday Vigil, sending representatives to the leadership seminar, General Marilogy, Rosary Rally, YMC Christ-mass Party, Catequiz etc. Through those mentioned activities, again my interest has come alive.

Another chapter in my life as YMC Animator when I was elected in different positions as YMC Animators’ Officer. The highlight when I was elected as President in 2016 and it was very challenging.

At first, it was quite hard because I didn’t know how to start and how to handle animators with different ages. But thankfully, the YMC Animators’ Council was very supportive and innovative in all our projects. Most of the time I worked with my vice president in the name of Tito Daniel John ``DJ” San Pedro and we planned together about the activities and projects for the Animators ahead of time and presented it to the council. So far, the council has contributed such as the YMC Animator’s Logo, YMC Animators’ By-Laws, Animators’ Handbook (ongoing), and we have also facilitated the unforgettable YMC Animator General Assembly Gala Night and Council Benchmarking. In my entire life as YMC animator, I have been serving three schools. 7 years in Mandaluyong High School (MHS), 7 years in Highway Hills Integrated School (HHIS) and 7 years in my present school, Mataas na Paaralang Neptali A. Gonzales (MPNAG).

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Tito Arnold Cabaluna Ymc Animator

With my whole experience here, it teaches me a lot not only how to be a teacher but a good teacher. It teaches me how to understand people around me in fact I met good people and learned from them.

I admired Titos and Titas who stayed for so long just to give themselves for YMC. It teaches me how to value friendship and enjoy their company. The YMC community is a family that sometimes I want to lose connection with but my heart keeps saying don’t and it's worth staying at home. I always heard this saying “Once a YMC Always a YMC”. And yes, that’s true.

Lastly, as I continue on my journey as a YMC Animator, I will keep those memories from my heart, inspire more people and serve the Lord happily. I will borrow this quote “Joy can only be real if people look upon their life as a service and have a definite object in life outside themselves and their personal happiness.” – Leo Tolstoy

C C M M Y Y e c a n s y O a w Al

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KAKAIBA SA YMC Trainor Jan Rae Quiton

"Kakaiba sa YMC!" Higit sampung taon na nung grumaduate ako sa leadership seminar. Summer 2013 noon, naghahanda ako para sa senior year ko sa high school. Di ko alam na sa mga susunod na araw na parating, magbabago ang buhay ko.

Dahil isa pala ang buhay ko sa mga magpapatunay. Habang buhay sa puso ko ang mga ala ala ng mga araw at gabing iyon. Hayaan nyo akong ikwento ko ang paglalakbay ko sa YMC. Bilang tipikal na kabataan, sabay sa uso ang mga nakahihiligan kong gawin. Mahilig sa laro, sa mga gala at katuwaan. Mula ako sa pamilyang katoliko, pero di rin naman ako talagang ganoon kadasalin. Kaya hindi ko rin akalain na magiging malaking bahagi ng pagkatao ko ang YMC. Pero isang araw, naimbitahan ako ng isa sa mga guro ko noon sumama sa isang vigil pagkatapos ng klase namin isang biyernes. At dahil kasama din ang barkada at mukhang ang lakad ay kakaiba, umoo na din ako. Wala akong kamalay malay na ang pag-oo ko ng gabing yun ay "oo" ko na pala sa panghabang-buhay na misyong mahalin at paglingkuran ang Diyos sa tulong at pamamagitan ng ating mahal na inang Maria. Nagtataka pako nung una dahil kakaiba ang mga gawain.

TRAINORS’ May bahaging nagsasayaw kami sa saliw ng mga karismatikong awitin, na para sakin nung una ay katawa-tawa. Pero nung magsimula nakong sumayaw, kasabay ng mga kapwa ko kabataan, simula umpisa hanggang matapos ang kanta, hindi na bumaba ang ngiti kong abot hanggang tenga. Noon lang ako nakaranas ng ganoong klase ng saya. Sa isa namang bahagi ng gawain, nasaksihan ko at naranasan sa kauna-unahang pagkakataon ang isang banal at sinaunang rito ng simbahan, ang pagtatampok sa katawan ng Panginoon sa Eukaristiya. Kinilabutan ako, manghang mangha sa kadakilaan ng Diyos. Nasulyapan ko ang langit ng gabing yun, habang nakaluhod sa dambana ng Panginoon. Noon ko lang naramdaman ang ganoong klase ng kapayapaan at kadakilaan. Magmula noon, nabuksan ang puso at isip ko sa katotohanan ng ating pananampalataya. At nang kami ay magrosaryo kasabay ng isang munting prusisyon paikot ng simbahan kasama ang imahen ng mahal na ina, untiunti kong nakikita, ito ang magiging paglalakbay ko sa buhay. Katulad ng prusisyong ito at ng sabay sabay naming pananalangin ng mga kapatid ko sa pananampalataya, ang buhay ko ay magpuprusisyon, mula sa mula ng Buhay pabalik din sa Kanya, tangan ang rosaryo sa kamay ko, sa pag gabay ni Inang Maria. Ad Iesump per Mariam! Patungo kay Cristo sa pamamagitan ni Maria! Matapos ang unang vigil ay naging aktibo ako sa mga gawain ng YMC, mula sa lingguhang SR, sa mga sumunod pang First friday vigil at iba pang mga gawain. At nang sabihin ni tito na isa ako sa mga napiling mag leadership seminar, agad din naman akong umoo.

FIAT!

Nagumapaw ang kaligayahan sa puso ko sa lahat ng mga naganap nung mga sumunod na araw na yun. Nakatagpo ako ng mga panghabang buhay na kaibigan, nakaranas ng mga di malilimutang karanasan.

WALL

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minsan ay masakit ngunit magiging tapat ako sa pangako ko na maging kamay ni Hesus sa mga taong naghahangad na maakay patungo sa Kanya Madami ang nagbago matapos ang seminar. Mas higit kong naunawaan ang mga aral ng simbahan. At palagi kong ipinangangaral ang mga ito sa mga taong malalapit sa akin at kung may pagkakataon ay pati narin sa mga bagong nakikilala ko. At ang pinakamalaking pagbabago sa buhay ko, ay nang makilala ko nang husto ang ating Ina. Minahal ko siya, higit pa sa naging pagkakakilala ko sa kanya noon. Sa lahat ng aking ginagawa, palagi ko siyang tinatawag para ipagdasal ako. Sa lahat ng mga masasakit na pinagdaanan ko sa buhay, kasa kasama ko ang rosaryo nya. Kasama niya ako sa hapis ng buhay, at sa ligaya ng Panginoon na kanyang anak na si Hesus. Mama's boy ika nga. Nang dahil sa YMC, naging deboto ako ng mahal na Ina. At ang debosyong ito ay ibinabahagi ko sa aking mga mahal sa buhay, sa aking magiging pamilya, sa aking mga estudyante ngayong akoy guro na, at sa lahat ng mga katulad kong naglalakbay din sa buhay at nangangailangan ng pag gabay ng isang butihing ina. Ang ating inang Maria. Sabi nga natin sa YMC, "Buhay ang nagpapatunay." At ang dalangin ko para sa atin mga kapatid ko, na anuman ang maging estado natin sa buhay, ano man ang ating marating o ang ating mapagdaanan, maging ebanghelyo nawa ang ating mga buhay sa ating kapwa. Ang ating buhay ang siyang magpapatunay na buhay ang Diyos at siya ay kapiling natin sa araw araw, kasama ni Maria na ating ina, magdarasal, mag-aalay, magbabagong buhay, at sama-samang iiwan ang kasalanan. Pamilyar ba?

Dahil sa YMC, kakaiba!

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LAMP & LIGHT MARON ANTHONY RODRIGUEZ

BIBLICAL REFLECTION ON

Mary’s Charity

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Mary’s Humble Service “At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.”

(Lk 39:41) After learning of her own miraculous pregnancy, Mary did not focus on her own needs or challenges. Instead, she immediately set out on a difficult journey to visit her cousin Elizabeth, who was also expecting a child.

Despite the physical and emotional toll of her own situation, Mary’s first thought was to offer support and companionship to Elizabeth.

This selfless act of generosity and love speaks volumes about Mary’s character and her deep love for others.

When Mary arrived at Elizabeth’s home, her presence brought great joy.

Elizabeth exclaimed, "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!" (Luke 1:42). Mary's visit was more than just a physical journey; it was a spiritual one that brought hope, comfort, and joy to her cousin.

This story teaches us that charity is not just about giving material things but also about offering our presence, our time, and our love to those who need it.

As we journey through life, there are few figures as inspiring and comforting as Mother Mary. Her life and actions offer us profound lessons in love, generosity, and selflessness.

I feel so blessed that there have been some people in my life who reflect those lessons that Mother Mary’s life teaches us. Among those persons is Nanay Cynthia.

Nanay Cynthia is already in her 60s and yet, she and her husband, Tatay Boy, still serve people through their simple eatery in Kawit.

The eagerness of Nanay Cynthia to serve people with a warm welcome and sweet smile really makes me think of how well Mother Mary also served her cousin, Elizabeth. Her life made me believe that age is just a number. Life can be more meaningful when you spend it in serving others.

Just like Nanay Cynthia, Mother Mary's life was marked by a profound willingness to serve and love those around her. From the moment of the Annunciation, when the Angel Gabriel told her that she would bear the Son of God, Mary responded with a heart full of grace and charity. She said, "Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word" (Luke 1:38). This response wasn't just a moment of acceptance but a lifelong commitment to God's will and to loving and serving others.

Mary’s life continued to be a testament to charity in action. At the wedding at Cana, she noticed that the hosts had run out of wine, which would have caused them great embarrassment.

Without hesitation, Mary approached Jesus and asked for His help, saying, "They have no wine" (John 2:3). Her concern for the well-being of others and her belief in Jesus'

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ability to provide for them led to His first public miracle. This moment underscores Mary's role as an intercessor and a compassionate mother who cares deeply for the needs of others.

Throughout Jesus' ministry, Mary remained a steadfast presence, supporting Him and caring for His followers. Even at the foot of the cross, in the midst of her own unimaginable sorrow, Mary exemplified the ultimate act of charity. She stood by her son, offering Him the comfort of her presence and sharing in His suffering.

In this moment, Jesus, recognizing her strength and love, entrusted her to the care of His beloved disciple, John, saying, "Woman, behold your son!" and to John, "Behold your mother!"

(John 19:26-27). In doing so, Jesus extended Mary's maternal care to all of humanity, making her the spiritual mother of us all.

Mary's charity did not end with her earthly life. As the Mother of the Church, she continues to intercede for us, offering her prayers and love from heaven. Many saints and faithful throughout history have turned to Mary in times of need, finding comfort and assistance through her intercession. Her charity is timeless, reaching out to each of us in our own struggles and joys.

TO LIVE A LIFE OF SELFLESS LOVE In our modern world, we can draw inspiration from Mary, Mother of Charity, to live lives of selfless love and service. Her example teaches us that true charity is rooted in a deep love for God and for others. It calls us to go beyond our own needs and desires, to see the suffering and needs of those around us, and to respond with compassion and generosity.

Living a life of generosity like Mary means being attentive to the needs of others. It means being willing to step out of our comfort zones to offer help and support. It means seeing Christ in everyone we meet and responding with love, just as Mary did. It can be as simple as lending a listening ear to a friend in distress, volunteering our time to help those in need, or offering our resources to support charitable causes.

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HUMILITY IN OUR ACTS OF

CHARITY Mary's example also teaches us the importance of humility in our acts of charity. She never sought recognition or praise for her actions; instead, she humbly serve others out of love. This humility reminds us that charity is not about making ourselves look good but about genuinely caring for others and making a positive impact in their lives.

In our families, communities, and workplaces, we can strive to be more like Mary by cultivating a spirit of charity. This can transform our relationships, creating bonds of love and support that reflect the love of Christ. By following Mary's example, we can become instruments of God's love in the world, spreading hope and joy wherever we go.

As we reflect on Mary's life and her role as the Mother of Charity, let us ask for her intercession to help us grow in love and generosity. May her example inspire us to live lives of selfless service, bringing the light of Christ to those around us. And as we journey through life, let us always remember that in every act of charity, no matter how small, we are reflecting the heart of Mary and the love of God.

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Marian Corner Starting At 9:00am

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MAMA MARY: THE ORIGINAL BOSS OF CHARITY, SPREADING LOVE SINCE WAY BACK WHEN BY: ATE GENEVIE SORIANO

In a world filled with trends and influencers, let's give a shout-out to the OG queen of charity: Mama Mary. Yeah, you heard it right, the Blessed Virgin Mary herself, rocking that halo like she owns it.

Imagine this: Mama Mary, chilling in Nazareth, when suddenly, bam! Angel Gabriel shows up with some life-altering news. Instead of freaking out or asking for a selfie, she's all cool like, "Sure, I'll be the mother of God. No biggie." Talk about setting the bar high for motherhood.

Fast forward a bit, and Mama Mary's on a road trip to visit her cousin Elizabeth. Now, most of us would just shoot a text or maybe a Snapchat, but not our girl Mary. She's all about that personal touch, showing up at Elizabeth's door with a baby bump full of Jesus and enough love to go around.

But Mama Mary's not done yet. Nope, she's just warming up. Skip ahead to Jesus hanging out on the cross, and who's right there beside him? You guessed it—Mama Mary, the ultimate ride-or-die mom, dishing out love and support like a pro.

Some might say Mama Mary's too perfect, but we know better. She's got style, she's got class, and she's been spreading love since before it was even a thing. So, next time you're feeling down or just need a little boost, remember Mama Mary's got your back. She's the original queen of charity, and she's always ready to share the love.

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EMBRACING THE SPIRIT OF CHARITY BY: ATE JESSA YNALVEZ

In the vast array of titles bestowed upon the Virgin Mary, "Mother of Charity" holds a special resonance for many believers.

Known for her boundless compassion, selfless love, and unyielding support, Mary, Mother of Charity, serves as a guiding light and a source of comfort in our daily lives.

A SYMBOL OF MATERNAL LOVE Mama Mary embodies the quintessential maternal love that transcends human understanding. Her nurturing presence offers a sense of security and warmth, much like a mother cradling her child. This maternal care is especially significant in times of distress and uncertainty, providing a soothing assurance that we are not alone.

Many find solace in turning to Mary during personal trials, trusting in her compassionate intercession to guide them through difficult times. Her example of unwavering faith and courage inspires us to remain steadfast in our beliefs and resilient in the face of adversity.

A MODEL OF COMPASSION Mary’s title as Mother of Charity emphasizes her deep compassion and empathy for all humanity.

Mary's compassionate heart encourages us to practice empathy and understanding in our interactions with others, fostering a more loving and supportive community. Inspired by her example, we are called to engage in acts of kindness and charity, extending love and support to the marginalized and suffering.

INSPIRATION FOR SELFLESS GIVING Mary’s life exemplifies the essence of charity—selfless love and giving without expecting anything in return. Her willingness to accept God's plan and her dedication to caring for Jesus reflect the highest form of charitable love.

DAILY ACTS OF CHARITY: We are encouraged to incorporate acts of charity into our daily lives, whether through volunteering, donating to those in need, or simply offering a helping hand to someone in distress.

Service to Others: Following Mary's example, we can find fulfillment in serving others, recognizing the divine presence in every act of kindness.

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A STORY OF

YMC

ALUMNUS Aaron Matthew Camit

San Antonio de Padua Parish – Diocese of Paranaque

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MARY, MY MOTHER SO LOVING AND GENEROUS At the wedding feast at Cana, our Lord said, “My hour has not yet come” yet our Blessed Mother replied and commanding the servers “Do whatever He tells you,” in her generosity and mercy she also gets to say when will the perfect time come, even in the midst of deep uncertainty and loss of direction.

My devotion to the Blessed Mother started during my high school days where we are introduced to the secrets and promises of our Blessed Mother in Fatima. Her words resonated with me, as growing up through the years, the world around me became more fast-paced and filled with ideas which are contrary to Christian values. I then confided to Her request of praying the rosary everyday and to live out the values Christ has taught us in Scripture. It has become my consolation and comfort whenever violent storms have shaken my path towards the career and life that the Lord has willed for me. One such instance is a threat to my own life. During the height of the pandemic, I was immediately rushed to the hospital due to rapid heartbeat and dangerous levels of hypertension, I was anxious, and it clouded my mental capacity at that time. The only thing I could think of was to grab my rosary first and immediately proceed to the emergency room and whatever mental energy that I had left, I spent it all praying the rosary. By the grace and will of God and Mary, I was discharged in the hospital fully recovered on October 7, 2020, the liturgical memorial of Our Lady of the Rosary.

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Mary has been my constant guide and witness to my struggles After this incident, my devotion to Blessed Virgin Mary has increased a hundred-fold, I began to have devotion to numerous titles that have miraculous connotations, such as that of Nuestra Senora del Buen Suceso de Paranaque, Nuestra Senora del Santisimo Rosario de La Naval de Manila and Mary, Help of Christians.

Mary has been my constant guide and witness to my struggles, defeats and victories in my college life. I have credited her in my initial discernment to pursue an allied health degree and in every aspect of my studies I always come to her aid, from recitations to thesis writing.

While I have not yet finished my college studies, even today I am struggling with it, the help and guidance of Mama Mary has always been my foundation in everything that I do in life. The calling to a better vocation is still an option for me as of this moment, thus I continue to trust our Blessed Mother as I follow her words: “Do whatever He tells you.” As Mary followed God’s will, she will help us to fulfill what God has in store for us.

Ave Maria Purisima, sin pecado Concebida!

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YMC TAGPUAN YMC ALUMNI SR NIGHT

REV. RALPH MA., MMHC “ THERE IS JOY HIDDEN IN EVERY EVENT AND STORY OF OUR MISSION.”

FR. ERIC MA., MMHC “ THE CHURCH IS NOT ABOUT THE STRUCTURES, LAWS AND REGULATIONS... THE REAL CHURCH IS GOING OUR AND PROCLAIMING THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST.”

BR. JOHN PAUL MA., MMHC

BR. SAMUEL MA., MMHC

"ALAGAAN NATIN ANG ATING MGA YMC DAHIL SILA ANG KATUWANG NATIN SA MISYON".

" KATULAD NI MARIA BILANG ISANG TUNAY NA DISIPULO NI KRISTO, NAKAHANDA TAYONG MASAKTAN HABANG TINUTUPAD ANG KALOOBAN NG DIYOS"

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YMC TAGPUAN YMC ALUMNI SR NIGHT

FR. JANUARIUS MA., MMHC "DIYOS NA ANG GUMAWA NG PARAAN, SINAKRIPISYO NIYA ANG SARILING BUHAY PARA MAGING TINAPAY NA NAGBIBIGAY BUHAY SA ATIN"

BRO. NICHOLAS MA., MMHC "KUNG GUSTO NATIN MAGING MALUSOG ANG ATING PUSO, BAWASAN NATIN ANG MGA BAGAY NA HINDI NAKABUBUTI SA ATING PUSO GAYA NG GALIT AT INGGIT"

BRO. POLYCARP MA., MMHC

FR. CLAUDE MA., MMHC

"LET THE YOUTH APPRECIATE WHAT THEY GET IF THEY LET GO OF THEIR GADGETS/SOCIAL MEDIA AND FOCUS AT THE MOMENT LIKE DURING RETREATS"

"KAHIT MAWALA TAYO SA LANDAS, HINDI NAWAWALA ANG PAGNANAIS NG DIYOS NA TAYO AY BUMALIK SA KANYA. PALAGI SIYANG NAG-AANTAY SA ATING PAGBABALIK"

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MY VOCATION STORY BR. IVAN MA. TAPAYAN, MMHC

"For all things give thanks; this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus."

1 Thessalonians, 5

MY VOCATION STORY

Many religious men and women would say that they discovered their vocation when they were still a child.

Some would say that they got attracted to the religious habits of the priests and nuns, some were hypnotized by the beauty of the Holy Mass, some asked God for signs, and some even tried to bargain with God. Among these classic vocation testimonies, none of them tells how my vocation story started because I realized God revealed to me my vocation in a gradual process.

If I were asked, when was the time that God revealed to me that I have a vocation? I would say, when I was in second-year high school, when I attended this mysterious leadership seminar conducted by the Priests and seminarians of the Marian Missionaries of the Holy Cross. It was a journey of discovery, a path leading me to my true calling.

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I never dreamed of becoming a priest, nor did I have the desire to enter a seminary until I attended the three-day leadership seminar conducted by the MMHC Priests and Brother in their seminary, way back in 2014. I was a member of the Youth for Mary and Christ, a religious youth organization in our school wherein a group of seminarians from the MMHC visits our school every Tuesday and Thursday to give "SRs" (spiritual readings) and catechesis. Every year, the YMC asks the school to send representative male students to attend the seminar. The aim is to form the delegate into an authentic Christian student leader with a distinct Marian character who can lead the YMC in their respective school chapters.

Luckily, I was chosen and sent to attend the leadership seminar.

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A MEANINGFUL ENCOUNTER I thought it was just an ordinary series of sessions, but little did I know God was about to reveal to me my vocation.

It was the most memorable and meaningful experience when I was in high school.

It was memorable and meaningful because that was the moment in my life when I encountered Jesus and the Blessed Mother concretely through the series of talks and activities.

After a three-day seminar, my perspective changed.

At a very young age, I developed a personal relationship with Jesus and the Blessed Mother. Every day, I would always bring with me my rosary. I fell in love with Mass, and regularly, I attended the first Friday vigil mass and received the sacrament of reconciliation monthly. The leadership seminar made me desire to become an MMHC. To become one of them. However, that spark of light and desire eventually faded and was forgotten as I continued my journey

as a typical high school student enjoying life as an adolescent. I got involved with other different organizations in our schools and prioritized those activities that would benefit my academic life.

Consequently, my commitment to the YMC was compromised and sacrificed. However, little did I know my vocation when I was in my second year did not leave me.

When I reached fourth year this desire was reawakened. In my last year in high school, I decided to go back again and commit myself to the YMC. I wanted to give the service I failed to offer when I left the group as a leader and prioritized other organizations.

That year was genuinely refreshing.

The feeling of belongingness in the community,

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together with the brothers of the YMC-MMHC, brought me to the very beginning when I desired to become one of them. Time moved so fast that I was about to graduate in 2015, so I started taking entrance exams from different colleges. My parents wanted me to take the Teaching Profession, but deep within me, I am not at peace with this profession. But what can I do? They were the ones who decided for my future. During this time, when I am about to take a course, I am truly disturbed. I am terribly stuck because I cannot also express my disagreement to them! I didn’t know what I wanted, and even entering the seminary was not my option. As far as I am reflecting, this is the darkest moment in the early stage of my vocation story, the experience of uncertainties about the future and the feeling of confusion about the path I should take. With this first struggle, I just let myself in and feel the pain and void. I just let my parents decide without considering what I really want.

Well, in fact, I dare not disobey them because, in the very first place, I don't know what I really want.

This struggle continued not until I had the opportunity to have a conversation with my brother in charge in the YMC. His name is Br. Julius Ma. Dayandante, MMHC. He is now a Priest. I thank him because God used him as his instrument to liberate me from my confusion. In one of our conversations,

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VOCATION STORY LOVE STORY WITH GOD

he asked me about my plans after high school and what my heart desires. I couldn't answer his question because I discovered I never had a plan.

I told him that I just allowed my parents to plan for my future. I let them decide what course and school I will be taking. Upon hearing my answers, he scolded me. He sation with this statement, told me that I was no longer a “Doon ka sa direksyon na wala high school student after my kang pagsisihan, saan ka masaya at mas graduation, and it should be payapa, makapagsilbi sa panginoon. clear to me what I really Baka tinatawag ka ng wanted. He added by saying Panginoon sa Pag-Papari”. Of that I am not anymore a course, at first, I was surprised. I "baby" who cannot decide on once desired to become a my own.

I made a lot of Priest, but that was a very long time. In fact, I have forgotten introspection after he told me that desire because I thought I those words. He concluded did only have that desire our simple yet sincere conver- because I was really impressed

Tinatawag ka ng Panginoon

by the MMHC, but eventually, the feeling faded away because I did not entertain it anymore.

And upon reflecting on that calling, I am convinced I cannot live out that kind of lifetime commitment. But the desire to serve, inspire, and be with the YMC is still ingrained in my heart. At this moment, I was in the denial stage. However, that simple conversation with Br. Julius was the turning point of my vocation story.

That was the first time I made a deep introspection and reflection. I felt inspired once again and was brought back to the very first day when I decided to offer my life to Jesus and Mama Mary during our leadership seminar when I was in my second year of high school.

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My frequent conversations, or shall we say spiritual direction, gradually unveiled what my heart really desired. I was really convinced, God made me realize that what I really want is not something temporal but something beyond this life. The desire to become one of the MMHC, to serve God, to inspire others, and to become holy were not actually forgotten. They were just hidden from the very depths of my heart. They only need somebody to be reawakened once again.

Now, it is clear what my heart's desire is to enter the seminary, but I am still doubtful if I will be faithful to the commitment, and I am also afraid of becoming a Priest. After a deep discernment, what still dominated was my desire to try seminary life.

With great courage, I told my parents about my plan to enter the seminary.

However, it was so disheartening. All of them disagree with my decision.

Being the eldest son of the family, they have many expectations of me.

They expect me to help them and fulfill our dreams as a family. Then, suddenly, here I am, telling them that I will be entering the seminary. All those plans and dreams were shattered.

So, here I go to my second struggle. After I was liberated from my comfort zone, I needed to address and process my family. I was left alone with two choices: staying with my family and sacrificing this calling to religious life forever or entering the seminary and letting God write my journey.

28 Having this great idealism that God will never abandon the family of those who are willing to offer themselves to Him made me own up my decision to enter the seminary. I fought for this vocation, even reaching the point of disobeying my family's will for me.

After a series of arguments and conversations. Fortunately, I was able then to convince them about my decision. Thankfully, they give me their blessing. I felt so brave that I was really fighting for God at that very moment. I am so bold that I took the risk. One thing is certain: at that time, I was so happy and at peace with my decision because I knew in my heart that I was in the loving hands of the Divine Potter.

In 2015, after our graduation at 16, I joined the congregation of the Marian Missionaries of the Holy Cross congregation. I was terrified because there was no turning back. However, this fear vanished when I met the community of the MMHC Priests and brothers. I came to realize that I was never alone who experienced the call and had the same struggle. There are so many of us! Listening to the stories of the brothers about how they came to realize their vocation made me embrace all the more the life I have chosen because I realized this is really the will of God. As I experienced the way of life of the MMHC, their mission to the youth and prisoners, and the spread of Marian devotion, I felt so fulfilled, and I told myself, “This is God’s will.”

God answers my prayers, "Lead me, oh Lord, to the life where I will be happy and at peace." I felt that great peace within that I eventually forgot my plan of going out of the seminary after six years. My perspective in life changed.

God really moves in mysterious ways. Seeing how happy I am in this vocation, my family confesses their love and support in my chosen vocation. Listening to my mother’s struggle upon accepting my decision and her encounter with God made me even more convinced that God is really working mysteriously at the curtain of my vocation story.

MATER SPEI

GUIDING ME ON THE RIGHT PATH

10 years had already passed, who would have thought that I would be reaching this moment in my priestly formation? I am now a graduate of Theology program at the University of Santo Tomas. It has been a very long journey. I really thank God for calling me in this kind of life and for those people who become his instruments. I am convinced this is God's will for me. It is His grace that sustains me. All I can say is that I am truly in the loving hands of the Divine Potter. He prepares me for a greater purpose. One thing is for sure: he guides me on the right path in the life everlasting.

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MATER SPEI

AN MMHC BROTHER’S REFLECTION ON

The Perks of Doing Works of Charity BRO. POLYCARP MARIA., MMHC

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MATER SPEI

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“IT IS BETTER TO GIVE THAN TO RECEIVE.” A famous quote that until now many find it catchy. Indeed, giving is such a wonderful thing one can do to others who are in need. And today a lot of persons are in need. But there is a question, “what can I give?”

My dear friends, there is always something you can give. It doesn’t have to be extravagant or big.

Huwag mong isipin yung laki o halaga nang iyong ibibgay. This charity work is focused not on how much you can give but rather, how and why you give. Hindi sa kung gaano kalaki bagkus bakit mo bah binigay at kung paano mo ito binigay?

I remember the time when a friend of mine called for help. And when I arrived at their home. All she needed was someone to talk to.

That was just a time of listening. It was just a moment of me just being there. After that, she said thank you with a great smile. I was thinking.

How come she was that grateful?

Knowing the fact that I didn’t do anything so special. I just stayed for her for a while. Then later that day, I realized that some people in my life don’t need significant help. Even just a fraction of the time I give them is already a comfort for them.

Charity don’t just make you happy. It gives you connection with the one who had gave himself first for us.

And that is no other than Christ himself. There is no greater perks of charity than the consolation that God knows your heart is full of His overflowing love that is always ready to be shared. And so don’t be afraid to give. Never hesitate to give what you have. It is not how much you have given but it is by reason that you give. And that reason is you, the image of love radiating through. For as Mother Teresa of Calcutta once said,

“it is not how much we give but on how much love we put into giving.”

MATER SPEI EDITORS AND CONTRIBUTORS

Maron Anthony Rodriguez Editor-in-Chief

Jay Tobias Content Editor & Coordinator

Br. Ralph Ma., MMHC Lay-out Artist

John Quilaqil Content Editor & Coordinator

Daniel John San Pedro Content Editor & Coordinator

Genevie Soriano Content Editor & Coordinator

Jessa Peñaloza Glenda Etquibal

Content Editor & Coordinator

Content Editor & Coordinator

SPECIAL THANKS TO OTHER CONTRIBUTORS: Br. Polycarp Ma. Alacapa, MMHC

Br. Ivan Ma. Tapayan, MMHC

Trainor Aaron Matthew Camit

Tito Arnold Cabaluna

Trainor Jan Rae Quiton