Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Presidentiables
Aquino, who keeps the lead in all presidential surveys, has been very vocal on his
support on population control.
He said legislation on RH bill can help provide the sex education that present and
future generations’ need, in answer to the misinformation they may get from the Internet
and other media.
Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales briefs the media during a press conference on the upcoming Second National Congress of Should the Catholic Church boycott him in the 2010 elections because of his support
the Clergy being organized by the Episcopal Commission on the Clergy in celebration of the Year for Priests. Around 5,000 priests all over the for the RH bill, he said he would rather heed his conscience.
Philippines and some neighboring countries are attending the five-day retreat-congress which will be held from January 25-29 at the World
Trade Center in Pasay City. Birth control / A6
through the digital world, Adams invited the young faithful to share it. [Let us help] them to In the internet, the galaxy of lights and sounds, we want Christ to
their stories of faith and encounter with Jesus Christ with others experience God,” Adams also be there for he, the Risen Christ, will make cyberspace a human
through the internet. told more than 2,000 rep- space,” the Nuncio added.
“With all kinds of possibilities available to us, the wonders of resentatives of youth or-
technology have opened the world for us, why shouldn’t we use ganizations who attended ‘Just like our little brother Jesus’
the miracles of technology to tell others about the destiny of man, the launch at the Univer- Since the launching of the YouthPinoy website coincided with the
the struggle between forces of light and darkness, the revelation sity of Santo Tomas. Cyberspace / A6
many impurities that or good luck. “That is the real devotion,” he added.
ily suspended so that priests could attend the
need cleansing,” Rosa- As of 4 p.m., the PNRC Cardinal Rosales also said that devotees should
gathering.
les told reporters. reported that some 350 learn that Black Nazarene is a symbol of sacrifice
But Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal
At least two people, people who had joined and repentance.
Rosales said that in the absence of priests, lay
died and scores were the procession were in- “We still have a long way to go and there are
ministers will take over in administering com-
injured in the yearly jured and provided first many things to purify even in religious matters
munion to the faithful and bless the dead in at
tumultuous procession of the Black Nazarene from aid treatment. because there are excesses,” Rosales said.
least five-day period.
Quirino Grandstand to Quiapo Church. Some of the devotees also experienced various Tens of thousands of barefoot devotees
“There are dioceses where 100 percent of the
Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC) secre- health conditions like dizziness, high blood pres- surged forward to try to touch the statue, which
priests will be here together with the bishop
tary general Gwen Pang identified the fatalities sure, and lack of oxygen. they believe could bring miracles or good luck.
so no one will be left in the parishes. The lay
as 42-year-old Rodrigo Ocampo and 40-year-old Rosales said these problems happen when devo- (CBCPNews)
ministers will be the ones to give communion
Distribution
But one problem is getting aid in; another is getting it into the hands of hungry, thirsty Haitians.
Up to three million people are in need of help.
© www.chinadaily.com.cn
Caritas communications officer Michelle Hough recorded in her blog from Haiti on Sunday the dif-
ficulties simply getting from one place to another.
"We travel with a Caritas assessment team to Petit Goave, a small town 60 kilometers (37 miles) from
Port-au-Prince in the afternoon," she wrote. "It takes us over two hours. In some places the road has
massive holes and cracks. It’s tough going in a jeep, I can’t imagine how aid trucks will manage."
Hough noted how the media have made much of insecurity on the island: "As for insecurity, apart
Cardinal Zen calls for referendum to decide Hong Kong’s democracy Prelate sees looming leadership vacuum
HONG KONG, Jan. 18, 2010— them will be viewed like a refer- For several between the LAHORE, Pakistan, Jan. 18, 2010—Archbishop Lawrence Sal-
Cardinal Joseph Zen Ze-kiun, endum in favour of democracy years, pro- mainland danha of Lahore says there is a vacuum developing within the
Bishop Emeritus of Hong Kong, and universal suffrage. democracy and the two Church leadership in Pakistan.
called on the territory’s Christians At a forum on constitutional parties and special ad- “Most Pakistani bishops are elderly and of Goan descent. Rome
to vote for the referendum on reform organized by Catholic the popula- ministrative has high standards for nominating bishops and sometimes our
universal suffrage two days after and Protestant groups, Cardinal tion have regions, is- priests are too young and incapable for the task. We should im-
the Chinese government said that Zen urged all citizens including been pushing sued a state- prove our performance and clergy should be highly motivated
“Hong Kong had no authority to Christians to support the de facto for the direct ment on the by the Gospel,” he said.
launch a referendum.” referendum as a way to push election of all matter, say- The head of Pakistan’s Catholic Church urged the building up
In fact, it is not a referendum in forward Hong Kong’s democracy lawmakers, ing that the of local Church leadership at a thanksgiving Mass celebrating
the proper sense of the term, but movement. but main- idea of ref- the 50th anniversary of his priestly ordination.
rather five by-elections that will “I’m angry at the local govern- land China erendum in “The Church has progressed tremendously in five decades.
have to be called to replace five ment’s political reform proposal has blocked Hong Kong is There were only two local priests when I was ordained. The
members of Hong Kong’s Legis- which offers neither progress nor the change, “fundamen- (number of) local priests are growing but we still have a lot to
lative Council (LegCo) who plan any direction. It gives people no postponing it tally against do,” he admitted.
to resign in late January in protest choice, but have to accept it,” perhaps until the Basic He also stressed the importance of lay participation. “A par-
against the government’s slow Cardinal Zen said. 2017. Law” agreed ticipatory Church is the key. We need people to take greater
pace at implementing full democ- Under current rules, only half The Hong by China and responsibilities in Church,” he told about 1,000 people on Jan. 16
racy for the Special Administra- of all LegCo members are chosen Kong and the United at Sacred Heart Cathedral in Lahore. These included 60 priests,
tive Region. Five candidates from by direct election; the other half Macau Affairs Kingdom be- hundreds of nuns, seminarians and lay people. He was ordained
pro-democracy parties will run in is made up of members elected in Office, an agency of China’s fore the former British colony was a priest in the same Church on Jan. 16, 1960.
the five ridings, and voting for functional constituencies. State Council that manages ties returned to China. (AsiaNews) Archbishop Saldanha, 74, concelebrated the Mass with Arch-
bishop Adolfo Tito Yllana, apostolic nuncio to Pakistan, Auxil-
© www.fathermike.info
“Creatures differ from one another and can be protected, or and migration, and pointed to the drug trade in places like Af-
endangered, in different ways, as we know from daily experience. ghanistan, where agriculture is largely dedicated to the production
One such attack comes from laws or proposals which, in the name of narcotics. “If we want peace, we need to preserve creation by
of fighting discrimination, strike at the biological basis of the differ- rechanneling these activities,” he said.
ence between the sexes,” he said. In short, the pope’s analysis is not a simple one, nor is it eas-
That prompted protests from homosexual activists, including ily categorized. His environmental “position” touches on climate
the head of an Italian gay organization, who said the pope’s link- difference or duality of the sexes” was part of a misguided effort to change (he urged an international agreement, warning that the
age of gay marriage and ecological irresponsibility was “almost free the human being from biological conditioning. future of some island nations is at stake) and the global economic
comical.” Addressing the diplomats, the pope said he was thinking of leg- crisis (which he blames in part on the selfish activities of the invest-
Pope Benedict, however, was not trying to score a cheap political islative initiatives in countries in Europe, North America and South ment industry).
point. His argument touched on what might be called the leitmotif America. Three days earlier, the Parliament in heavily Catholic He sees the ecological crisis as part of a wider moral crisis, and the
of his pontificate: that man is not God, and that man’s actions should Portugal was the latest to pass a law that would legalize same-sex common denominator is what he calls a “self-centered and materi-
correspond to God’s plan — or, as he phrased it to the diplomats, to marriage. alistic way of thinking which fails to acknowledge the limitations
“the structure willed by the Creator.” In the same speech, the pope underlined that protecting the inherent in every creature.”
This is a long-held opinion of the German pontiff. In 2004, in a environment makes no sense unless it begins with protecting hu- With that as a starting point, the pope’s continuing catechesis of
major Vatican doctrinal document on the relationship of men and man life, including the life of the unborn. Here, too, the pope was ecology is likely to keep grabbing attention and ruffling feathers in
women, then-Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger said the “obscuring of the emphasizing that the church’s “green” philosophy always puts the coming months. (CNS)
© www.bologna.chiesacattolica.it
priests must lead the faithful in confidently and saying that his mission is that of announcing the The second, he continued, consists in having the
courageously announcing the Gospel message. Word of God seriously and confidently, without courage and conviction to be a true believer in the
The conference was held Jan. 11-13 for clergy letting himself be taken down by pessimism. Church. Finally, “there is no mediocre and relaxed
and the lay faithful who work with the Unitalsi In order to fulfill their mission with enthusiasm way to approach the conquest of Christ; conquest
association, an Italian organization that organizes and conviction, continued the cardinal, “priests means effort, tension, hard work and obstinate
pilgrimages to holy sites around the world. The today must be men of prayer and also be very dedication, self-sacrifice.”
cardinal and Msgr. Crociata met with conference prepared on the theological and cultural plane.” Msgr. Crociata concluded by saying that none
participants to prepare them for another year of Msgr. Crociata built on the same theme, propos- of this is possible without an impassioned faith.
pilgrimages. ing that priests must hold to three principal require- (CNA) Cardinal Camillo Ruini
cussed “only one explained. According to the 3rd quarter survey of SWS, 71 percent how to teach their children correctly about sex.
is being highlight- The time hon- of surveyed Catholics and 68 percent of surveyed non- On contraceptives, 92 percent did not agree with the plan
ed and at times, ored stance of the Catholics favored the bill’s passage. Meanwhile, Pulse Asia to make available free of charge birth control pills, IUDs
what is presented CBCP in its rela- said 63 percent of the population supports the RH bill. and the like to young teenage children without the parents’
are ‘half-truths’” tion with the gov- But even after the release of the statistics, Church leaders knowledge and consent.
by some broad- ernment is ‘criti- as well as vanguard life advocates remained steadfast in The survey also bared that 73 percent were not aware that
sheets. cal collaboration,’ their all-out campaign against the bill. Former Lingayen- lawmakers have been trying to pass a reproductive Health
The CBCP presi- Bishop Nereo Odchimar said Odchimar. Dagupan Archbishop Oscar Cruz said in an article that the Bill in spite of strong opposition from the Catholic Church
dent said the conference remains influ- He said they collaborate with the fight “is not a numbers game.” and large segment of the population.
ential because it could still “make and government on what is good for the “…it’s a question of morals and ethics, it’s not a question RH bill / A6
unmake people.” common people and they criticize what
A moral force
“I have heard many people are look-
is worthy of blame.
EDITORIAL
DEATH and tragedy seems to be the order of the year. If we were rather than ask and search, for when we eventually find what or
superstitious, the recent calamity in Haiti bodes ill for the entire year. who we seek, there are no excuses not to believe in nor give our
But as believers and followers of Christ, no gravity of tragedy or commitment to that discovered truth.
senselessness of death can separate us from Him who is the source And so alas, in the tragedies of this passing world, are we to
Pedro C. Quitorio of all happiness and grace. discover God? And insist that God does not turn a blind eye when
Editor-in-Chief The tsunami in the Indian Ocean, the floods in Southeast Asia, the His people suffer? Or are we to follow the other extreme and think
devastating earthquake in the Caribbean—all these natural phenom- that indeed this world is left to its own, and that we are to tend to
Pinky Barrientos, FSP Kris P. Bayos ena make us think twice not only of how volatile human life is on ourselves with only ourselves to help us? Or to consider even that it
Associate Editor Feature Editor the face of the earth but more importantly, these make us look, no, is just senseless to think more than what we see and experience, that
search for a somehow higher power and being. these are tragedies and that is all, no deeper explanations, no deeper
Melo M. Acuña Laarni Bergado And in this seeming despair, when somehow we are cornered sense, no higher meaning, and no higher Being to speak of?
Managing Editor Marketing Supervisor either to lose hope or grasp the idea of any higher good, it is then that Last Christmas Season, I had the grace to stay at the bedside of
we have to “invent” the idea of God. To comfort ourselves perhaps a dying man. He was rich and powerful. I thought for a while that
Roy Q. Lagarde Ernani M. Ramos
News Editor Circulation Manager or to console our weary and tired hearts? death was a great equalizer between the poor and the rich, the weak
Perhaps. Who then is God? Are we no different from our ancestors and the mighty. That since death is inescapable, at least in death,
Laurence John R. Morales Marcelita Dominguez that when they were confronted with unexplainable phenomena of we are all equal.
Layout Artist and Online Editor Comptroller nature, they simply turned to nature and adore it as god? Perhaps Yet I was deeply wrong. I saw this man, in the utter weakness of
we have just gone more articulate, more sophisticated in our ver- his mind and body, drew strength from God and from Our Lady.
The CBCP Monitor is published fortnightly by the CBCP Com- bosity yet essentially re-inventing the same old idea that since we In his last evening of earthly life, he exhorted us to pray the Holy
munications Development Foundation, Inc., with editorial and cannot explain it, let’s call it “god,” and adore it and attribute to it Rosary. Upon reaching the Fourth Sorrowful Mystery, he summoned
business offices at 470 Gen. Luna St., Intramuros, Manila.
P.O. Box 3601, 1076 MCPO. anything and everything that will make our lives on earth more any strength that was left of him and led the praying of the decade,
Editorial: (063) 404-2182. Business: (063)404-1612. bearable and palatable. and with fifth Hail Mary, he begun to sing the prayer.
ISSN 1908-2940 Quite tempting isn’t it? It’s easier to be “philosophical” rather Sickness and death are not the great equalizer, God’s grace is.
than to be “dogmatic” about things. It’s a lot easier to ask and doubt Mary / A5
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 2
January 18 -31, 2010
Opinion A5
Fr. Roy Cimagala Jose B. Lugay
Catechism and political
Candidly Speaking engagement Laiko Lampstand
PCP II’s 19th
A CATECHISM has just been issued by the Episcopal Commission good aspects, we are also now getting entangled with a worldwide
on Family and Life. It’s titled, “A Catechism on Family and Life for campaign to push wildly liberal ideas and values, unhinged from
the 2010 Elections.” Its purpose is to form and guide the consciences the sure core of beliefs of who we really are.
of the Christian faithful in their duties toward family and life espe-
cially as these values impact on our public life.
We cannot be brainless and idiotic before this disturbing develop-
ment not only in our country but also in the whole world. Sad to anniversary—
Quo Vadis Laity?
It has 15 points, with questions that go directly to the issues, and say, many of our political and social leaders are playing deaf and
answers that while a bit kilometric are succinct enough to cover dumb to the true character of these issues. They are playing footsie
these issues sufficiently. It requires some effort, but it surely will with powerful and moneyed ideologues.
also reward that effort. This is not to mention that many of them profess to be good and
I would say it’s a tremendous material that will go a long way pious Christians. They like to flaunt their Christianity around, mak- THE year 2009 has closed with a bang of calamities, disasters, and
in helping families and individual persons to be more consistent in ing sure they are in the limelight in public occasions. But they are the uncertainty of the implementation of the automated elections.
their Christian faith and morals. Consistency in this case means the notoriously inconsistent with their Christian faith and morals. The year 2010 was ushered in by the 14-hour saga of the Black
faithful’s duty as citizens also to promote and defend their family Yes, we need to help them to leap from being Christian in name Nazarene procession, and the start of the investigation of the
and life values in the political arena. only (CINO) to Christian in life really (CILR). If they are humble Maguindanao massacre. The economic crisis worldwide has been
This is a very exciting challenge. For some time now, this aspect enough to realize their need for conversion, there’s always hope. overcome and even the Philippines is out of the recession. The
of the Christian life has been neglected, presumed to take care of The purveyors of these wild ideas cleverly use sophisms and casuistry headlines now occupy the start of the presidential campaign us-
itself by some naïve belief in an invisible hand, not realizing that to argue their points. And so, together with their generous dole-outs of ing paid surveys and the two contending presidentiables started
powerful forces prowl our social and political life, taking advantage money, they are quite successful already in mainstreaming the contra- throwing brickbats at each other. The victims of sea disasters
of the democratic atmosphere to retail their evil designs. ceptive mentality and in developing a sizable and noisy following. are still seeking justice for the loss of their loved ones. Mayon
Thus, while churches may be full especially on Sundays, and public But the truth is not with them. And that fact has to be exposed volcano has calmed down to allow refugees to go back to their
devotions and shows of popular piety are never lacking, we now have promptly and thoroughly. Silence in this case is a devil’s tactic. Thus, homes below the 6 kilometers danger limit. This in a nutshell
the anomalous situation where in our Congress we have lawmakers this Catechism comes in handy. It answers in the clearest terms, are the headline- grabbing incidents during the closing of the
poised to legalize practices that are openly against morals, not to within the bounds of data, logic and charity, the questions often old year and the coming in of the new year
mention, our culture, scientific data, and even common sense. raised to distort if not disable the ethical aspects of these issues. Let us take a close look at the present social situation of the
I pray that this catechism be given widespread airing in the par- Among the points clarified in the Catechism are the often misunder- Philippines. SWS survey says that there are 4.4 million house-
ishes, families, schools, companies, social groups, etc. I pray that it be stood doctrine on the separation of the Church and State, the role of holds that experienced involuntary hunger in the last quarter of
studied by our politicians and the other leaders and prominent figures Catholics and Christians in enriching the democratic system, the role of 2009. They are those who are not able to eat 3 meals a day. In
in the fields of media, business, sports and entertainment, etc. conscience in developing our positions and our duty to form it well. the rural areas some families are unable to send their children to
A social network of sorts should be put up, with everyone taking Very significantly, the Catechism once again articulates why con- school since they are needed to help tend the farms. The poorest
the initiative to do whatever he can to spread this document. It can traception is wrong, why the Reproductive Health Bill now pending regions where they live are also where the political dynasties
be uploaded in the Internet, emailed to friends, including discus- approval in our Congress is dangerous, why voting for candidates enjoy their wealth and power.
sion groups. It can be given especially to our public officials like our who favor RH is not morally sound. What has PCP II, or the Acts and Decrees of the Second Ple-
senators, congressmen, governors, mayors, etc. In all of this, let’s never forget that this political engagement is nary Council told us 19 years ago about the social issues then?
We have to wake up. We cannot deny the fact that especially with a struggle for truth and justice, for peace and love for all. Let’s not Its causes, its effects and what the Church had to do to change
this unavoidable trend toward globalization that certainly has its spoil it with petty quarrels and useless acrimony. the situation? In short, what have we done since then to effect
social transformation? If we have not succeeded, where did we
fail? Since the People of God, the Vatican II definition of Church
The priest is called by Rev. Euly B. Belizar, SThD is composed of the Clergy, the Religious and Laity, what had
each group contributed to the solution of the social ills of this
God the Father, Son and country? Now that the election period for 2010 is here, let us
Holy Spirit By the Roadside listen to what PCP II had to say about the economic and political
situation 19 years ago. It will be evident to those who update
themselves on the Philippine social situation that nothing has
changed much since then.
A PRIEST once told his confreres over dinner holy mountain. “And the foreigners who who blesses us in His Son, Christ Jesus, and
“29. We see today, especially after EDSA, a strong concern
of a childless middle-aged couple in his par- join themselves to the Lord, ministering to seals us with the Holy Spirit (Eph 1:13-14)”.
for broad social change. These past few years the realization has
ish who hired a barrio lass as housekeeper. him…them I will bring to my holy mountain But how does this apply to the priestly voca-
grown that change in social structures is not enough without
She turned out to be an excellent cook too. and make joyful in my house of prayer” (Is tion? Pastores Davo Vobis teaches that it is
change too in cultural values. In the soul-searching on reasons
Unfortunately, she had a habit of listening 56:6-7). This is clearly a judgment passed on by virtue of consecration in ordination (PDV
why we seem to be unable to move on our besetting social prob-
to the couple’s private conversations. She some Israelites’ mistaken sense of having an 12). Through Sacrament of Orders, “the
lems, there has been a tendency to look inward at the values that
noticed how the wife calls her husband from exclusive right to being God’s People. I re- priest is sent forth by the Father, through
motivate us and to blame them as the hindrances to movement.
time to time. “Darling, your newspaper is member an OFW friend in Rome who shared the mediatorship of Jesus Christ…in order
Possibly it is more correct to say it is not our values so much
here”, “Darling, please check our electric how his Jewish “employer” often taunted to live and work by the power of the Holy
that are at fault as the exaggeration and the wrong uses we have
bill”, “Darling, your compadre Peter just him: “You Christians stole everything you Spirit in the service of the Church.”
put them to. For it is precisely in their excess and abuse that
texted you” etc. One evening, after the table got from us Jews. But make no mistake. Only This truth has sobering consequences. First,
our social ills arise.”
was set for supper, the wife told her: “Call Jews are the Chosen People.” One could it tells us, yet again, the true origin of the
“Even as we note the basic soundness of our values as a whole,
my husband now. It’s time to eat.” The probably also say: “Oh yes. But also make no priestly vocation. I had once a conversation
however, we will have to characterize them as rather too par-
housekeeper dutifully went upstairs and, mistake. Isaiah says God calls all peoples to with a mother who was heartbroken that her
ticularistic, too focused on the good of small social groups (the
within the hearing of the wife, called out to his holy mountain, not simply Israel.” son left the seminary. I had to tell her, “It’s not
extended family, the clan, little in-groups of all kinds). This
the man of the house: “Darling, dinner is On the other hand, the priest of the NT we, it’s God who calls anyone to the priest-
narrow focusing easily lends itself to the factionalization that
ready!” The wife nearly had a heart attack. is an agent of this universal call. Israel ac- hood. No matter how good our intentions
social scientists say is characteristic of much of Philippine soci-
The lass mistakenly thought ‘Darling’ was cording to Isaiah’s vision is precisely God’s are, it’s still God who makes priests.” Second,
ety. Lacking is a more universalistic outlook that would put as
the man’s name. People so that through Israel all peoples, all it also clarifies to everyone, especially the
much stress on their good of wider groupings, the community,
A person calls another person always for nations of the earth, could be called to share priest, why his vocation is inextricably tied
the nation, humanity and the world at large
a specific purpose. When God calls each in the blessings of God’s People. In fact, the to ‘community’. At times we priests and lay
We don’t have to go far to get examples of this PCP II situation
prophet in the Old Testament it is specifi- priest of the Catholic Church mainly comes people alike talk of community building like
analysis. The Ampatuan family, the richest and most powerful
cally to bear and declare his word to them, from every nation other than Israel. He is a it’s the latest craze in contemporary Church
political dynasty in Maguindanao which is considered a place
whether of joy or of judgment. When Isaiah living testament of this universal call. life. It barely scratches the surface. The truth
where the poorest of the poor live. The Ampatuans which also
is called, for instance, it is to bear God’s Word But the point is, it’s God the Father, Son is, since it is the Divine Community of Father,
head the ARMM, is the richest oligarchy strengthened by their
declaring his will to call all people to himself, and Holy Spirit who extends this call to the Son and Holy Spirit who calls certain persons
ability to control the results of past elections through connivance
not simply Israel. The barrio lass in our story person he wants to be a priest. As the Cat- to be priests, that call is understandably both
with COMELEC officials. The present Administration is claimed
could not share in the couple’s exclusive re- echism for Filipino Catholics says, the call to share in the Trinitarian life and to extend
to have won in the last presidential election by the support of this
lationship. But the same thing is not true to that every Christian hears, especially the that life to others. The fruit of his response
clan. Now the premeditated murder of Mangundadatu family
God’s relationship with Israel. The prophet priest, to follow Christ, “is a free gift of God, is always a community he builds after the
members, a total of 57 people including 30 media practitioners
puts it in terms of calling all peoples to his grounded in the Father’s free loving choice, image of the Trinity.
now on its second day of trial which will be resumed on Janu-
ary 20, is a glaring abuse of the power of the clan—the extended
Fr. Carmelo O. Diola, SSL family of the Ampatuans.
“23. It is in the field of economics and politics that we see most
Adios Amigo clearly how our socio-cultural conditioning—or, more correctly,
Spaces of Hope
its negative aspects—strongly affects behavior. It lends to, in a
word, inequalities, often of the grossest kind.”
“24. Thus on the economic side: The poverty and destitution
of the great mass of our people are only too evident, contrasting
THE late Engr. Ernesto R. Aboitiz had unusually young looking eyes: if he was not exactly what people ordinarily refer to as religious. sharply with the wealth and luxury of the relatively few families,
sharp, inquisitive, clear, and active. Surrounded by a thick frock of Sir Ernie, a title bestowed on him in 2009 by his St. Sylvester Papal the elite top of our social pyramid. And on the political side:
gray hair and a prominent goatee, his eyes revealed a youthful spirit award, was so becoming of him. Power and control are also elitist, lopsidedly concentrated on
that no aging body could confine. The gospel last Sunday (Luke 2:41-52) on the finding of Jesus in established families that tend to perpetuate themselves in politi-
It was as if the poet Samuel Ullman was thinking of him when he the temple show an inquisitive boy of twelve who is comfortable in cal dynasties.”
wrote the memorable lines: “You are as young as your faith, as old the presence of influential people, even as later on he also showed The field of economics and politics are in the sphere of the
as your doubt; as young as your self-confidence, as old as your fear, himself to be very much at home with the poor. laity’s world. 99.97% of the People of God (Church) is the La-
as young as your hope, as old as your despair.” Inquisitiveness is the first step towards wisdom. Wise people be- ity. Most of them are the poor—the people who practice their
I got to know Engr. Ernesto Aboitiz during the defining days of gin by asking; often good questions are more important than good Christian belief in folk religiosity (the Black Nazarene devotees).
People Power 2. A friendship was born between a veteran advocate answers. Ernie had endless questions that threatened the uniniti- Only 10% belong to those who go to Church on Sundays and most
and a middle-aged upstart in the work of political advocacy. He ated but shed light to those who were open. While there would be of them are women. From the results of what we see today, the
soon became a dear friend, a feisty fiscalizer, and a precious mentor. disagreements, the process of asking removed the superfluous and male Christian population is mostly “unchurched,” and would
He also became the first personal monthly pledger of our fledgling often only the truly essential remained. It was his way of sharing rather spend their free time elsewhere to reward themselves after
movement. his cumulative wisdom as well as channeling the energies of what a long day’s work. To those who are involved in Sangguniang
Ernie was an acquired taste. At first encounter, one gets the uneasy later on became the Dilaab movement. Laiko ng Pilipinas, I ask, Quo Vadis, Laity? PCP II has shown
feeling of being stretched out of one’s comfort zones. After all, Mr. The questions taught us many things: that resources, when the us the way 19 years ago. It’s time to move faster—for social
Aboitiz had been there and done those things that were just begin- hearts and the systems are not in the right place, can be a curse; reform. If we start with voting for the right persons this 2010,
ning to dawn on me. Ernie had worked with two presidents and was that empathy and compassion towards public servants is essential there is great hope for social transformation, never mind if we
involved in the phase of transition between the two. It was no easy if we are to have meaningful change; that by linking with others are 19 years late!
role but he had his conscience and his Church to guide him. I recall and becoming part of a network we do not have to reinvent wheels;
with admiration how often a man of his stature would humbly ask that people need to put their money where their mouths are; that way to help is to be in government. It gives you a big high just be-
specific guidance from persons much younger and less well known prevention is better than cure; that effectiveness is not just a frenzy cause many are helped due to a little effort on your part.” It is small
than himself, only because they were priests of the Church. of activities; etc. By insisting on concrete counterparts from stake- surprise that my dear friend was happiest with our outreach to the
One can say he was a dye-in-the-wool Catholic who was not timid holders in advocacy work, he embodied the Church’s vision of a police and he was looking forward to the germination of the seed
about concealing his core identity in the challenging worlds of busi- community of disciples where no one is so poor so as not to be able of our effort to evangelize politics.
ness, government, and high society. He was a bearer of Catholic to give anything and no one is so rich so as not to be able to receive Last year, Ernie and other members of our network planted some
identity and culture. Once, when he was with me in our rather tight anything. seedlings. He did more than that. He planted some seeds for Dilaab,
and bare space we called a “prayer room” for a mass, I asked him Last December 2009 he showed himself thinking of others even the Church, and the nation.
to remove his shoes before entering. He did so with no hesitation. as he entered a very difficult period in his life. He said to me: “It Do not worry Ernie, we will continue to water the seedlings while
Ernie was a simple man who had a deep sense of the sacred even is really so simple to help others if you really want to and the best God will give the growth. Adios Amigo!
Life / A4 Mary / A4
for Life” Month signed by Pres. Corazon C. Aquino the minds and hearts of the Filipino people and Conversion is for everyone, the mighty and weak, part of Your creation, desires to praise You. You
last Feb. 3, 1988. thereby help reverse the above statistical trend, it wealthy and the pauper. move us to delight in praising You; for You have
WHEREAS, the United Nations Declaration on becomes imperative to set aside a period of time for Gathered together around him the next day, formed us for Yourself, and our hearts are restless
Rights of the Child provides that “the child by rea- them to ponder and focus attention on their moral we sung the Hail Mary, with the repetition of this till they find rest in You…
son of his physical and mental immaturity, needs and constitutional obligations to protect human life Marian hymn, he breathed his last. With the statue And those who seek the Lord shall praise Him.
special safeguards and care, including appropriate or one’s inherent right to life; of Our Lady, Mary, Mediatrix of All-Grace guard- For those who seek shall find Him, Matthew 7:7
legal protection, before as well as after birth;” NOW, THEREFORE, I, CORAZON C. AQUINO, ing him in deathbed, it was the true Lady who and those who find Him shall praise Him. Let me
WHEREAS, Section 12, Article II of the Consti- President of the Philippines, by virtue of the powers accompanied him to his heavenly home. seek You, Lord, in calling on You, and call on You
tution provides that it is the policy of the State to vested on me by law, do hereby declare the second Tragedies do not equalize us. The grace of God in believing in You; for You have been preached
“protect the life of the mother and the life of the week of February 1988 and every year thereafter as does. God’s love does. unto us. O Lord, my faith calls on You—that faith
unborn from conception;” “RESPECT AND CARE FOR LIFE WEEK” under St. Augustine has these beautiful words to say: which You have imparted to me, which You have
WHEREAS, available statistics detail the frightening the auspices of the Department of Social Welfare Great are You, O Lord, and greatly to be praised; breathed into me through the incarnation of Your
losses of innocent human lives by abortion; and and Development and Pro-Life Philippines, and great is Your power, and of Your wisdom there is Son, through the ministry of Your preacher.
WHEREAS, in pursuance of the above constitu- other involved entities or organization. no end. And man, being a part of Your creation, Faced with life and eventually death, the Prayer
tional mandate and in support of the UN universal IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set desires to praise You, man, who bears about with of the Church solemnly assures us, for God’s faith-
declaration and in order to instill the same, as my hand and caused the seal of the Republic of him his mortality, the witness of his sin, even the ful people, life is changed, not ended. Vita mutatur
well as the value and sacredness of human life, in the Philippines to be affixed. witness that You resist the proud, — yet man, this non tollitur.
Local News
CBCP Monitor
A6 Vol. 14 No. 2
January 18 - 31, 2010
© www.flickr.com/photos/22165083@N07
Bishop Florentino Lavarias, told them that they should not
chairman of the ECC, said the become Christians for fear of us,
event seeks spiritual renewal and or in order to please us, but that if
no politician will be welcomed at they wished to become Christians,
the venue. it should be with a good heart and
“We have our rules... the con- for the love of God”.
gress is for the priests and we Pigafetta was present at the bap-
will keep it that way,” Lavarias. tism of Rajah Humabon, his wife
Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Queen Juana and their followers in
Cardinal Rosales also called on Cebu. Magellan gave the image of
Briefing
Basilan prelate appeals for road promised by palace
Total log ban in
MisOr pushed
MANILA—The people of Basilan province eagerly awaits the
promised circumferential road scheduled to be built in the
island since November 2009. “With good roads, farmers will
be able to bring their produce to the market at lesser costs,”
thus said Basilan Bishop Martin Jumoad. He said he received
a call from Press Secretary Cerge Remonde last year assuring
him of the scheduled road construction on Nov. 16, 2009 “but
nothing happened.” (Melo M. Acuña) CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY—A proposed legislation imposing a total are detrimental to the people,” he said, explaining that this right is
log ban in Misamis Oriental province is being pushed in the Provin- enshrined in the “welfare clause” of the Constitution and in the 1991
Christian marriage a lifelong commitment, says cial Board to the elation of environmentalists and ecologists here. Local Government Code Section 26 and 27.
Bukidnon prelate Rev. Fr. Jose “Joe” Cabantan, SSJV, head of the Social Action Center “This is a historic initiative of the Provincial Board of Misamis
MALAYBALAY, Bukidnon—The proposal to make marriage of the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro said all sectors of the Misamis Oriental. And we hope this will hurdle all debates, challenges and
a “temporary commitment” legislating an “expiry period” Oriental society must help obstacles and become a
puts the institution of marriage and the future the family in push for the enactment of law in the province,” he
danger. This was how Bishop Honesto Pacana, SJ looks at the this proposed resolution, added.
latest controversy espoused by a party list group claiming to which is now being tackled The LRC-KSK/FOE,
represent neglected and abandoned women. He added “Chris- at the Committee on the Archdiocese of Cagayan
tian marriage is meant to be a lifelong commitment as it is a Environment headed by de Oro and other non-
Sacrament” that reflects the unconditional love of Christ for Provincial Board Member government organizations
the Church. (CBCPNews) Benedict Lagbas. and individuals are helping
Cabantan, along with in the signature campaign
Anti-life arguments misleading, erroneous, says bishop Archbishop Antonio J. initiated by slain Higa-
MATI, Davao Oriental—Anti-life advocates may have suc- Ledesma, S.J., has been onon lay minister and anti-
ceeded at some point, but their arguments remain to be base- in the forefront of vari- logging advocate Alberto
less, misleading and erroneous. Mati Bishop Patricio Alo said ous issues affecting the “Tatay Berting” Pinagawa
“many of the anti-life arguments are misleading and erroneous environment within the to cancel STC’s IFMA.
and maybe influenced by the lure of money.” Alo warned that jurisdiction of the Cagayan Last Monday, Rebuta
those who support the anti-life agenda unknowingly engaged de Oro archdiocese. and other advocates per-
into corruption because the program in itself is a kind of cor- “We cannot do our sonally filed the 25,000
mandate to protect and signatures calling for the
© www.bt.com.bn
ruption. (Mark S. Ventura)
preserve the integrity of cancellation of STC’s IFMA
Prelate: Holy Spirit needed to fulfil New Year’s
creation if we will just sit before the Forest Manage-
and let others do it for us. ment Bureau of the De-
resolution
We must also exert efforts partment of Environment
DAVAO CITY—New Year’s resolution will just come and go to see to it that the environment is protected,” he said. and Natural Resources (DENR) in Quezon City.
repeatedly like a broken tape record unless one has to seek and Ledesma said Vice Governor Norris Babiera’s proposed reso- Babiera said it is now high time to recover the province’s forest
live up to the grace of the Holy Spirit. Archbishop Fernando lution is a very “welcome development” in light of the ongoing covers, which was not given much attention in the past.
Capalla said that people often talk on welcoming New Year campaign for the immediate cancellation of the Industrial Forest “We want the entire province to recover its forest covers. This
with lists of New Year’s resolution, however, often than not it Management Agreement (IFMA) covering 11,476 hectares of for- problem should be given much attention,’’ he said.
is not accomplished. While he did not dismiss the possibility ests inGingoog City and Claveria town which the Environment He also said that with last year’s floodings experienced by Misamis
that it can be done, he said that it is always a personal challenge department had awarded to the Southwoods Timber Corporation Oriental, especially in Gingoog City, there really is a need to impose
for an individual. (Mark S. Ventura) (STC) in 2008. a total log ban in the province.
Carl Cesar “Cocoy” Rebuta, Cagayan de Oro team leader of the He said that the floods in Gingoog City in January and November
Capalla: ‘We are a reconciled, reconciling Church’ Legal Rights and Natural Resources Center-Kasama sa Kalikasan/ 2009 are proof that “there are no more trees in the mountains to
DAVAO CITY —As election is getting near, Archbishop Fer- Friends of the Earth (LRC-KSK/FOE) also welcomed Babiera’s absorb the rainwater.”
nando Capalla made an important reminder for the people move. Floods in Misamis Oriental last year damaged more than P50
by putting emphasis on being a “reconciled and reconciling “The local government unit has the right to say no to projects that million, Babiera said. (Bong D. Fabe)
Church.” Capalla, in a pastoral letter, recalled an important and
pastoral ministry course to stop aerial spraying Assumpta David, Sr. Ma. Magdalena Monteza,
Sr. Ma. Fe Gerodias, Sr. Ma. Preciosa Rusiana,
provincial consultors; Sr. Ma. Erlinda Cruz,
AUSTRIA’S Catholic hierarchy order to ban the use of aerial provincial secretary; and Sr. Ma. Anita Talbo,
THE East Asian Pastoral Institute (EAPI) of the Ateneo de Manila provincial econome.
is the latest group to support spraying,” it added.
University in collaboration with the Catholic Biblical Federa-
the Filipino bishops in urging More groups have joined
tion (CBF)–Southeast Asia has officially opened the 1st Biblical
President Arroyo to ban aerial the call for an executive order
Pastoral Ministry course.
spraying of pesticides in banana from Malacañang banning aerial
Launched January 5, the academic program is a three-month
plantations in Mindanao. spraying in Mindanao farming
pastoral training intended for priests, religious men and women and
The Austrian Episcopal Con- communities.
the lay biblical workers from the different parts of the world.
ference made the appeal in a Last October, Manila bishops
The program is intended to deepen understanding of the
letter sent to Arroyo last month. led by Gaudencio Cardinal Ro-
Scriptures; to contextualize the biblical teachings; to further
A copy of which was post- sales have asked the President
discuss and identify the methods of sharing, studying, praying
ed Wednesday at the website to ban aerial spraying since the
celebrating and proclaiming the Word.
(www.rcam.org) of the Archdio- practice has indiscriminately
Established as a response to the need of the local Churches
cese of Manila. caused harm to residents, crops
for effective pastorally oriented courses on the Bible, the course
The Austrian bishops said and livestock around banana
will focus on personal formation, renewal, spiritual accompani-
aerial spraying “infringes upon plantations in Mindanao.
ment, and the pastoral approaches and skills in using the Bible
human health and dignity.” The church leaders wrote Ar-
for community celebrations.
“Commercial interest may royo a letter dated Oct. 29 appeal-
Modules on recent developments in Biblical Hermeneutics and
never sacrifice people,” the let- ing to her sense of “motherly care
Church’s understanding of the Word of God will also be taken up.
ter, signed by Catholic Bishops’ for the future generations.”
Although optional, there is a six-day retreat at the end of the
Conference of Austria president The non-government South-
course in order to gain “deeper assimilation and prayer”.
Bishop Ludwig Schwarz, read. east Asian Regional Initiatives
The formal opening of the course was highlighted with a
The Austrian bishops called for Community Empowerment
Eucharistic Celebration presided by Sorsogon Bishop Arturo
on Arroyo to take side on what also wrote to Arroyo last No-
Bastes, outgoing chairman of the CBF and CBCP’s Episcopal
is good for the environment and vember urging her to stop aerial
Commission on Biblical Apostolate (ECBA).
the health of the people. spraying.
Also present during the launch were Bishop Renato Mayugba,
“...We call on your responsibil- Manila Auxiliary Bishop Brod-
Auxiliary Bishop of Lingayen-Dagupan and Vice-Chairman of
ity to defend the dignity of life erick Pabillo, however, said the
ECBA, Fr. Oscar Alunday, Executive Secretary of ECBA, Alexander
and the integrity of creation and, action of Arroyo on the matter still
Schweitzer, CBF General Secretary, among others. (Kate Laceda)
therefore, to use your power in remains to be seen. (CBCPNews)
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 2
January 18 - 31, 2010 Pastoral Concerns B1
HIS HOLINESS
POPE BENEDICT XVI
MESSAGE DURING THE 43RD
WORLD COMMUNICATIONS DAY
24 MAY 2009
“the proclamation of Christ in the world
of new technologies requires a profound
knowledge of this world if the technologies
are to serve our mission adequately. It falls,
in particular, to young people, who have an
almost spontaneous affinity for the new means
of communication, to take on the responsibility
for the evangelization of this ‘digital continent.’
Be sure to announce the Gospel to your
contemporaries with enthusiasm. You know
their fears and their hopes, their aspirations and
their disappointments: the greatest gift you can
give to them is to share with them the ‘Good
News’ of a God who became man, who suffered,
died and rose again to save all people.”
HIS EXCELLENCY
YouthPinoy.com
PHILIPPINES
HIS EXCELLENCY
By Andrew Isiah Bonifacio projects. Organizations included in its Of course, YouthPinoy organizers MOST REV. NEREO ODCHIMAR, D.D.
core group are the Federation of the would not let themselves get left PRESIDENT, CATHOLIC BISHOPS’
National Youth Organizations, Couples behind. An information booth was put CONFERENCE OF THE PHILIPPINES
EXACTLY fifteen years ago, the late Pope for Christ Global Mission Foundation up dedicated to disseminating vital
John Paul II etched a milestone in the and Couples for Christ Foundation for information about youthpinoy.com and “Nowadays, we have so much technology but
intricate annals of the country’s history Family and Life, Pro-Life Philippines how interested delegates can help in the sometimes we don’t use it to its fullest potential.
after marking his second visit to the Foundation, Dominican Network, patronage of the website. YouthPinoy Thus, it is our greatest challenge to think
Philippines for the World Youth Day in Filipino Chinese Catholic Youth, Salesian also had its own trendy merchandises seriously on how we can better employ these
1995. In the very soil of the University of Youth Movement, Canossian Youth like the shirt and the sticker bearing the new technologies to make the Gospel known,
Santo Tomas, millions of youth pilgrims Movement, Society of St. Vincent De YouthPinoy logo. to reach all the people with the message of Jesus
flocked and congested the campus Paul, Knights of Columbus-Columbian Delegates coming as far as Legazpi, Christ, so that the Good News of God’s infinite
grounds on January 13, 1995 for the Squires, Institucion Teresiana Youth, Albay started pouring in the registration love for humanity will resound in new ways
International Youth Forum to worship ChiroYouth Movement Philippines, and after noon. Upon registration, a youth across our increasingly technological world. It
together, learn of each other’s cultures, Tarcisian Adorers. delegate receives a kit, an ID, and best is my hope, therefore, that YouthPinoy will be
and “tell the world of His love,” which Representatives from each group of all becomes an automatic member of successful and constant in providing tremendous
became the long-playing mantra of the brainstormed for months to come up YouthPinoy. The registration reached up resources for deepening one’s knowledge about
occasion. with concepts for its operations, boost to more than 2,000 people. the Catholic faith that many people will be drawn
Unbelievably, it took fifteen years later its membership, gain funding, as well With the number of delegates gradually to a deeper faith in Christ especially the young
to concretely and creatively heed the as earn its credibility. Since last year, thickening before the celebration of the who increasingly turn to the world of cyberspace
call of the late pontiff—coincidentally YouthPinoy had been gearing up for a Holy Mass, fun games were conducted as a window on the world.”
almost on the same date and on the momentous launching event. and surely the young delegates had a
same historical venue (UST). Indeed, the “We all focused our attention first on blast citing the big smiles they had on HIS EXCELLENCY
launching of the YouthPinoy website was the launch. As we progress, we plan to their faces while cool prizes were given MOST REV. JOEL BAYLON, D.D.
found at the same place, in the same date, recruit more youth organizations coming away to the lucky winners. CHAIRMAN, CBCP EPISCOPAL
and of course, with the right people, the from the 86 dioceses here in the country. COMMISSION ON YOUTH
Filipino Catholic youth. With a bigger number of volunteers, Eucharistic celebration with Nuncio
“We hope that the YouthPinoy portal will
we can then launch other projects and At the signal of the Papal Nuncio’s
be a new venue where the young could meet
Birthing pains activities that also promote Catholicism arrival in the venue, the merry
their fellow young; where they can chat and
Before the historical night came to among the members of the youth sector,” atmosphere was toned decibels down for
share their stories and activities, and establish
be a success, there came the struggle. YouthPinoy president Eileen Esteban a while to make way for the ceremonial
connections and healthy friendships; where
YouthPinoy is a joint project of the said during YouthPinoy’s web launch. ribbon cutting rites. Apostolic Nuncio
they can browse and search for information
Episcopal Commission on Youth and Fortunately, the launching event Archbishop Joseph Edward Adams
about certain Church and faith issues; and
CBCP Media Office. Its first project is found its most fitting home in the royal, himself did the honors of formally
where they can reach out to those others who
the website www.youthpinoy.com, pontifical, and Catholic University of ushering YouthPinoy and its website to
are in search for meaning in life, and share
which provides a venue for the youth to Santo Tomas. With no hesitation, the the Catholic community.
with them their varied experiences of being
become OMGs or “online missionaries group grabbed on the opportunity and After the ceremony, selected delegates
members of church-based youth groups or
for God.” started paving the way for a triumphant equally representing each youth group
national youth organizations - so that these
Also, the website aims to break website launch. formed a human rosary and started
may also come to know God who is Love
distancing barriers between members of reciting the prayers of the Virgin Mary.
and Joy, Truth and Life.”
the sector through connecting them via Fuss in booths Reciting the intercessions brought out the
this portal. Aside from this, the site also What was supposedly a peaceful meditative side of the youth setting the
boasts of informative, entertaining, and Saturday morning became the exact mood for the anticipated mass scheduled HIS EXCELLENCY
insightful articles and images dedicated opposite with the arrival of the organizers right after. MOST REV. ROLANDO TIRONA, D.D.
to nourishing as well as hooking up the inside the campus. An array of white habits came flowing CHAIRMAN, OFFICE OF THE LAITY-
youth to a “hip and cool” Catholic culture. UST’s rectangular Plaza Mayor became in the next minute. Dominican protégés YOUTH DESK, FEDERATION OF
Thus the launch’s title YouthPinoy: surrounded with booths occupied by from the UST Central Seminary headed ASIAN BISHOPS’ CONFERENCES
Connect Tayo. participating and allied youth groups. by Vice-Rector Rev. Fr. Pablo Tiong
Despite being in its birthing pains, Each booth had something to offer to graciously escorted the celebrants in “The Office of the Laity and Family of the
the group has already recruited their spectators whether it’s the cool the procession. This is one of the rarest Federation of Asian Bishops Conferences
talented and well-dedicated volunteers merchandises or the usual FAQs each moments that the YouthPinoy launching (FABC-OLF) is delighted to hear about this new
coming from allied organizations group issues to interested members. organizers and participants would not endeavor of the CBCP-ECY and Media Office
to help the group and its website Commercial sponsors also held their soon forget. to bring the Good News of Jesus to the Filipino
from planning and implementing its own areas in the venue. YouthPinoy / B5 youth and to the youths of Asia! Thanks for
harnessing the creative, imaginative, formative
and Spirit-inspired talents of our young people
to lead other youths to Jesus Christ! We join you
in praying and working for its success!”
When the
coso, J.C.D. gradually worked out a text the dicasteries involved signed themselves. In this mentality
which was sent to the Presidents with their respective heads and what really counts is to achieve
of the Episcopal Conferences secretaries clearly expresses the goal one has set for oneself.
Every so often, I have and to the individual Bishops their co responsibility as well The very sacramentality of the
faithful take
been asked by lay faithful in those Churches where the as the importance that the Curia Church is undermined. We can
need to address this issue attached to the subject. On the understand then how, even
about the proliferation of was considered most urgent. other hand, such procedure when moved by true pastoral
extraordinary ministers
the Host
About 92 percent of those manifested the importance that generosity, some eventually
of Holy Communion and questioned were in favor, but John Paul II attached to the think that whatever does not
even more of so-called lay asked that ambiguous wording document. require the sacramental power
be avoided in the text, that the 3. Binding force of the of the Bishop, priest or deacon
ministers. Their presence is
directly
most authoritative legal form document. The importance ad validitatem can be assumed
quite noticeable, especially possible be used and, given the of the document is also ordinarily and permanently
during Sunday Mass when urgent need for clarification, underscored by the fact that the by the laity. But in doing so,
in many places there is that the document be published Pope approved the Instruction the ordained ministry begins
without delay. The Commission in forma specifica. Consequently gradually to erode, no longer
a veritable procession of scrupulously followed these any form of appeal against it is understood and appreciated by
them preceding the priest instructions. impossible. This modality is the People of God and therefore
(Father Edward McNamara, professor of liturgy at the Regina
Apostolorum university answers the following query:)
celebrant at the start of the In May 1997 the text was envisaged by curial law only sooner or later to become
Eucharistic celebration. discussed by the heads of for certain dicasterial decrees obsolete.
Q: Recently I asked one of my priests to prepare the
the dicasteries of the Roman with legislative force. The mode The individualist approach,
What really is the role of Curia in the presence of the of approval chosen by the Pope on the other hand, has become
faithful to discontinue the practice in their parish whereby
the lay ministers? Holy Father. The result of this must be considered in the light more and more widespread
the people dip the sacred host into the chalice. This has been
a long-standing practice in the parish, and it was started by
lengthy and thorough process of the fact that as stated in the since the 16th century and leads
In November 1997, the Holy See a certain missionary from India who said to me that this was
was the Instruction we are now Conclusion: “all particular laws, to thinking in terms of personal
published a document, entitled a custom in wide usage in that country. In response to my
considering. customs and faculties which success, competitiveness and
Instruction On Certain Questions didactic approach emphasizing the role of the minister in
are contrary to the foregoing power. In a theological context,
Regarding the Collaboration of giving Communion, and the recipient receiving the gift, the
Preliminary hermeneutic norms, and were conceded ad this mentality tends to loose sight
the Non ordained Faithful in parish priest quoted “Memoriale Domini” of 1969, which, in
clarifications: Canonico-Formal experimentum by the Holy See or of the Church as communio and
the Sacred Ministry of Priests. Paragraph 4 states as follows: “With regard to the manner of
aspects other ecclesiastical authorities, to over-value the individuality
The document reaffirmed the administering the sacrament, one may follow the traditional
After an ample Introduction, are hereby revoked”. Thus we of every member of the People
teaching of the Second Vatican method, which emphasized the ministerial function of the
the Instruction has two main parts are spared the possible objection of God, to the detriment of the
Council (especially Lumen priest or deacon, in having them place the host in the hand
entitled: Theological Principles that an administrative act cannot appreciation of the plurality of
gentium, n.33 and Apostolicam of the communicant. One may also adopt a simpler method,
and Practical Provisions. For derogate from the norms (laws charisms and roles among the
actuositatem, n.24). Its main allowing the communicant himself to take the host from the
a correct understanding of or customs) currently in force; People of God.
purpose was to acknowledge ciborium. In either case, the communicant ought to consume
the document, we must first the intention to ensure coherent 4. Encourage terminological
and promote what is specific to the host before returning to his place [...].” I cannot for the
consider some of its formal legislation in this entire matter precision. The Instruction
the vocations of the lay faithful life of me trace the progression from “Memoriale Domini”
aspects. is also apparent. rightly insists on the need for a
and of ordained ministers, with to Paragraph 92 of “Redemptionis Sacramentum,” which
1. An Instruction is an suitable terminology, clarifying
the goal of encouraging real states: “’Although each of the faithful always has the right
administrative provision. Other hermeneutic advertences: the confused use of the word
communion in the Church. to receive Holy Communion on the tongue, at his choice, if
An Instruction, by virtue Objectives of the Instruction ministry which describes both
any communicant should wish to receive the Sacrament in
of its juridical nature, is an To obviate any possible the officia and the munera
Genesis of the Instruction the hand, in areas where the Bishops’ Conference with the
administrative provision. As negative reaction to the exercised by Pastors in virtue
The Instruction stemmed recognitio of the Apostolic See has given permission, the sacred
c.34, §1 states, instructions document, it may be good to of the sacrament of Orders,
from a new awareness of the host is to be administered to him or her. However, special
clarify the prescriptions of laws summarize the basic objectives and those exercised by the
ecclesial situation as a whole. In care should be taken to ensure that the host is consumed by
and elaborate on and determine of the Instruction. In brief, the non ordained faithful. We
the past decade Bishops, priests the communicant in the presence of the minister, so that no
an approach to be followed in document simply reaffirmed the have to remember that lack of
and lay people had requested one goes away carrying the Eucharistic species in his hand. If
implementing them. Thus, it teaching of the Second Vatican terminological precision has
authoritative directives on the there is a risk of profanation, then Holy Communion should
does not create new law, but Council and of the more recent repercussions on the theological
identity of priests and lay people not be given in the hand to the faithful.’” I have indicated
merely insists that the law post conciliar Magisterium on level, creating ambiguity
with regard to particular cases the key issues by italics. I am sure you will be able to throw
currently in force be observed. the positive role of the laity in and confusion. The undue
of pastoral activity improperly more light on this issue.—A bishop in South Africa
As to the active subject of such the Church’s mission: application of the term minister
exercised by non ordained acts, the same canon states that 1. Encourage the ordained to the collaboration of laymen
faithful. A: First of all, it is necessary to point out that, strictly
persons who possess executive ministers. It encourages with the work of the clerics
Thus in April 1994, with the speaking, the parish priest was not quoting from the
power legitimately issue such ordained ministers by forcefully can and indeed has led to a
approval of John Paul II, the instruction “Memoriale Domini” but from a letter, published
instructions within the limits reintroducing the subject of confusion between the universal
Congregation for the Clergy in French, which was annexed to the original instruction. It
of their competency. vocations to the priesthood, (royal) and the ministerial
organized a symposium in was a sample of the letter on practical applications sent to
Furthermore, instructions are stressing that the Church’s life (ordained) priesthood.
which some members of the bishops’ conferences that had received permission to allow
not addressed to everyone who depends on the sacrament of 5. Very limited scope of the
worldwide Episcopate took Communion in the hand.
is a subject of the current law. Holy Orders as a free, absolutely Instruction. The Instruction has
part, representing their own Therefore, the suggestion regarding the people’s taking
The same c.34, §1 states that they irreplaceable gift, because the a very limited purpose and its
Episcopal Conferences—chosen hosts directly from the ciborium has almost no value as a legal
are given for the use of those ordained ministry (Bishops, title should be carefully read
because this problem was norm. Likewise, since it is intimately united to the question
persons whose concern it is to see priests, deacons) is part of the with that in mind. The subject
particularly acute in those of Communion in the hand, it falls under the aegis of the
that the laws are implemented Church’s very structure. is not collaboration between
Churches. The Presidents bishop as the authority permitting this practice.
and oblige such persons in the 2. Remind the laity of their priests and lay people, but
or representatives of some I would also mention that this question would not justify
execution of the laws. Thus, the specific role. The Instruction also the priestly ministry in so far
larger groupings of Episcopal the practice in this parish since the very same letter quoted by
Instruction we are commenting reminds us how the fundamental as lay people can collaborate
Conferences—including the the priest says two paragraphs later: “When the communion
on was primarily addressed, equality of Christians (by virtue in it. The document is thus
Federation of Asian Bishops is distributed under both kinds, it is never permitted to place
by reason of its timeliness and of Baptism) is compatible with concerned with only a limited
Conferences—were also in the hands of the communicants hosts which have first
for the sake of prevention, to an essential difference (by area of the laity’s field of
invited to the meeting, as been placed in the Blood of the Lord.” This at least implies
every Pastor of the Church, virtue of Sacred Orders) and activity in the Church. It is not
well as the Secretaries of the that the option of the faithful dipping a host into the chalice
who, in accordance with c.392, that lay Christians, precisely a question of the laity, defined
relevant Congregations of the was not contemplated.
§1, is bound to promote the because of Baptism, are called by their so called secular nature,
Roman Curia and well known Thus, rather than a magisterial document we are before an
common discipline of the whole to the consecratio mundi, who carry out their mission
theologians. The extensive initial attempt to regulate a nascent practice. The suggestion
Church and therefore to urge the which differs from the task of in civil society; nor are their
exchange of opinions and that the faithful take the hosts themselves never made the cut
observance of all ecclesiastical anyone who belongs, through autonomous activities within
particularly the Holy Father’s and was not incorporated into any formal documents. Indeed,
laws. the sacrament of Holy Orders, the Church being considered.
final address led to important very soon the opposite practice became normative.
2. Involvement of 8 Dicasteries. to the sacred ministry. Thus, The sole concern here—with
suggestions for preparing the In January 1973 the Congregation for the Sacraments
On the one hand, it can be said by avoiding every form of one exception, to which we
document. published the instruction “Immensae Caritatis.” When
that this procedure conforms to clericalism, lay Christians are will return—is that area where
An Inter-dicasterial dealing with Communion in the hand this document makes
the legislative provisions of the encouraged to become aware of the laity who say they are
Commission was established, no mention of the option of the faithful taking the host from
Roman Curia. According to these their identity and to give their available receive an ecclesiastical
coordinated by the Congregation the ciborium but simply says:
provisions, what falls within the witness in the world and in the deputation. But even this area is
for the Clergy and involving “Ever since the Instruction Memoriale Domini three years
competence of different offices Church without considering not examined in all its breadth,
seven other dicasteries: the ago, some of the conferences of bishops have been requesting
should be treated by all, under the exercise of those ministerial since the vast milieus of the
Pontifical Council for the Laity, the Apostolic See for the faculty to allow ministers distributing
the coordination of the office duties which they may perform school and the university, for
the Congregation for the Doctrine communion to place the eucharistic bread in the hand of the
primarily concerned with the from time to time as a form of example, are omitted. It is
of the Faith, the Congregation faithful. The same Instruction contained a reminder that
question. In this case, one has advancement but only as one of important not to forget this fact,
for Divine Worship and the ‘the laws of the Church and the writings of the Fathers give
the impression that various sorts supply and substitution. since—except for the exception
Discipline of the Sacraments, ample witness of a supreme reverence and utmost caution
of problems had piled up over 3. Expose the “functionalist” mentioned above—the vast,
the Congregation for Bishops, toward the eucharist’ and that this must continue. Particularly
time and had to be examined and “individualist” errors. ordinary field of activity for
the Congregation for the in regard to this way of receiving communion, experience
from different aspects, leading The inter-dicasterial text also lay people in the Church and
Evangelization of Peoples, the suggests certain matters requiring careful attention.
to a broad curial consultation. called for critical discernment the world is intentionally not
Congregation for Institutes of “On the part of both the minister and the recipient,
Nevertheless, it would have regarding certain modern trends considered by the Instruction.
Consecrated Life and Societies of whenever the host is placed in the hand of a communicant
sufficed for the document to that still deeply affect our era. It is only concerned with giving
Apostolic Life, and the Pontifical there must be careful concern and caution, especially about
be signed by the Congregation The functionalist approach, on appropriate direction to the
Council for the Interpretation particles that might fall from the hosts.”
for the Clergy, while noting the one hand, holds that human exercise of particular functions Faithful / B5
of Legislative Texts. In a series the preceding inter-dicasterial actions and things in general by particular lay people.
Features
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 2
January 18 - 31, 2010
B3
Why is a Catechism for the 2010 The Church has the duty to teach Our manner of active involvement by Christ Himself, assists us Catholics the official teachings of the Church, which
Elections necessary? Catholics about the importance of in the democratic process means that in understanding God’s will in specific Christ Himself instituted to guide us.
We are going to face serious challenges taking their Faith with them in all their we will use the power of the vote, as issues. The Church, as our Mother
in the 2010 Elections that are not only endeavors, including voting. Catholics citizens of the Republic, to elect political and Teacher, takes into account what What does the Church teach regarding
political but also clearly and profoundly must live their faith in order to integrate leaders who will uphold and promote the is happening in society and the data “responsible parenthood”?
moral. We are a nation that values God into their lives. For faith to be dignity of human life and the sanctity offered by the sciences and other fields of The profound link between the
family and life and yet for years our genuine, it must be evident not only in of family and marriage. Through our knowledge and offers us clear guidelines conjugal union and the gift of life gives
elected leaders have been attempting Church activities, but in all aspects of active participation in the democratic on certain specific questions. married couples a vocation to give life, as
to make laws that pose a grave threat life, at work, at home, and in politics as process, including voting, we contribute Thus, for example, we should not long as they can responsibly care for the
to these values. So once again we find well. The Constitution guarantees the to ensuring that our democracy firmly think that “abortion is wrong because the children they beget. Hence, responsible
the opportune occasion for the Church right of each citizen to exercise his or underpins moral and ethical values and Church says so,” but rather, “abortion is parenthood calls for an understanding
to exercise its teaching authority to her religion. Catholics who bring their standards. In the absence of ethical values wrong because it kills a human being who of the reproductive processes of the
guide us in carrying out their political moral convictions into public life do and standards democracy will become is one of us, and the Church reminds us spouses’ bodies, including the woman’s
responsibilities in a faithful citizenship. not threaten democracy or pluralism the totalitarian rule of the rich and the of its wrongness.” Indeed, whether the fertility cycle. And as with any other
The family has always been among but rather enrich the nation and its powerful who can trample on the rights Church says so or not, abortion is always passion (anger, fear, love for food,
the Church’s urgent concerns because political life. of the weak and vulnerable, such as the a most violent, unjust and inhumane act desire for more, etc.), the sexual drive
it is both the Domestic Church and the Every Catholic is both a faithful of unborn babies, mothers, the elderly and committed against the most harmless, should be placed under the control of
Basic Unit of Society. A strong family is the Church and a citizen of our beloved the poor families. defenseless, and weakest member of the intellect and the will, through the
the only assurance to having a strong Philippines. The exercise of this faithful A law-making process that is based our society –the baby– and committed exercise of virtues, rendering the sexual
society. citizenship means that when they go to simply on the will of the majority and by those who have the greatest duty to faculties truly and exclusively expressive
In the 2004 and 2007 elections, the CBCP the polls to vote they should not leave not on ethical principles can easily lead care for, love and defend him or her most of conjugal love and the self-giving of
encouraged the faithful to exercise their God outside. They should take with to unjust laws because the will of the –the mother, father, doctors and other persons.
Christian responsibility to be involved them, among others: majority can be manipulated by powerful health care professionals. Responsible parenthood further
in politics in the conscientious selection A renewed understanding of how interest groups, leaving the weak and Similarly, the intrauterine device (IUD) involves the decision either (1) to
of candidates, among others. We have God views life: “God created male and vulnerable unprotected. is not wrong because the Church says generously raise a numerous family if
consistently spoken out in defense of life female, in the divine image He created On family and life issues, including so. Rather it is wrong in itself whether the couple is capable of doing so, or (2) if
of a properly formed conscience, and that free, intelligent beings created in God’s conscience. But for the decision to have either
rde/CBCP M
participation goes well beyond casting a image and likeness and endowed by the one also has the a small or a large family rests
vote in a particular election. Creator with dignity and rights. obligation to form on the couple themselves.
This Catechism cannot be read with We Catholics share the same respect for one’s conscience,
© Roy Laga
a casuistic mentality, of one searching the dignity of every person in common because of the What is the difference
for a fine line dividing mortal sin from with many non-Catholics who accept possibility between procreation and
venial sin. Rather, it should be read these truths which are self-evident of having an erroneous reproduction?
from a magnanimous perspective of through the gift of reason. But undeniably conscience. “One must therefore work to the Church Reproduction is the process
one who strives to ask how to best serve what our Catholic faith teaches about correct the errors of moral conscience” says so or not, because the IUD can kill b y which living things replicate, to
the Filipino, the Filipino family and the the dignity of the human person and (no. 376). a 5-day old baby by preventing him or assure the continuity of their species. It
country. the sacredness of human life helps us her from implanting in the mother’s is necessary for the species, but not for
Will this Catechism on family and life to see more clearly these same truths As Catholics, how do we correctly form womb. In fact, it is medical literature the individual. Reproduction, as in the
concerns not violate the separation of because these are at the very core of our conscience? and not Church dogma that describes case of plants and animals, does not
Church and State? the Catholic moral and social teaching. The same Compendium of the the IUD’s modes of action, and it is from require any bond between persons. On
The separation of Church and State Because we are people of both faith and Catechism tells us that “an upright and these sources that the Church bases her the other hand, procreation is the proper
prohibits the State from interfering in reason, it is appropriate and necessary true moral conscience is formed by defense of the 5-day old baby. We were term for human generation as it refers
Church matters, and prohibits the State for us to bring this essential truth about education and by assimilating the Word once like this 5-day old human being, to a loving act between spouses which
from having a State religion. It does not human life and dignity to the public of God and the teaching of the Church. and he or she, if not killed, would grow prepares for a possible creation by God
imply a division between belief and square. Church authorities exercise their It is supported by the gifts of the Holy to become like us. of a new person. Procreation points to
public actions, between moral principles teaching function also by reminding Spirit and helped by the advice of wise Through prayerful reflection of the a collaboration of parents with God
and political choices. In fact, the freedom Catholic civil leaders of their moral people. Prayer and an examination of Word of God and a careful study of as the ultimate source of this new life.
of religion upheld by our Constitution obligations, especially in matters related conscience can also greatly assist one’s Church teachings on family and life (as None of these characteristics of human
protects the right of believers and to family and life. moral formation” (no. 374). in other matters), we strive to live out procreation may be found in plant and
religious groups to practice their faith How do we Catholics enrich the The Church’s teaching authority, also our faith in the world. A well-formed animal reproduction.
and act on their values in public life. democratic process this way? known as the “Magisterium,” endowed conscience is always formed according to Catechism / B4
Features
CBCP Monitor
B4 Vol. 14 No. 2
January 18 - 31, 2010
The conjugal act is like a documents would bring about the normal consequences of the access to contraception and parents if their child has been and reduces procreation as
language with two meanings: such confusion. marital act from taking place. abortion. treated for a minor scratch; on a function of the health care
the unitive and the procreative. Rather, they make use of the Furthermore, the Reproductive the other hand, the same school systems. It also implies that men
Through their union in the Why is contraception morally wife’s God-given cycle in their Health bill (House Bill 5043), clinics are PROHIBITED from and women relate in temporary
conjugal act, a man and a woman wrong? decision whether to have another which carries the same definition informing parents if their child and modifiable unions that are a
give themselves totally to each Contraception is any action child or not for the time being. of reproductive health, will seeks treatment for abdominal far cry from the beauty of conjugal
other in and through their bodies. taken before, during or after penalize with one to six months pains caused by a recent abortion. love that is fully human, total,
They are telling each other: “I the conjugal act which is aimed What is reproductive health? imprisonment, and/or 10-50 In other places, children are faithful, exclusive and open to
give myself totally to you, and I at impeding the process or the The UN defines reproductive thousand pesos fine, parents who required to obtain parental life.
love and accept you totally; we possible fruit of conception. In health as the state of physical, for example prevent their grade consent for a tattoo, but not for Men and women are persons
are one flesh.” That is the unitive contraception, it is like the spouses mental and social well-being and school and high school children an abortion. before all else, and for this reason
meaning. telling each other, “I love you as not merely the absence of disease from using contraceptives, or A high-ranking official of sexual behavior cannot be used
Furthermore, the structures long as we do not give birth.” In or infirmity in all matters relating from having satisfying and safe a foreign country massively only for pleasure. Otherwise
and functions of the male and short, contraception makes the to the reproductive system and sex. This item, along with the funding reproductive health it would mean using a person
female reproductive systems are conjugal act a lie. It expresses to its functions and processes. It fact that certain contraceptives services in the Philippines simply as an object.
such that when a sexual act is not a total love, but rather a states that people have the right actually cause the abortion categorically stated last April
performed, there is a possibility of merely conditional or partial to a “satisfying and safe sex life.” of 5-day old babies, is often that, “We happen to think that In defending family and life,
new life to be formed. This gives a love. Contraception separates the The conjugal union is natural ignored in supposedly unbiased family planning is an important do we Catholics not impose our
procreative meaning to the sexual unitive and procreative aspects of and proper in marriage, but in and scientific surveys on the part of women’s health, and beliefs on others and violate
union. Thus, to accept each other the conjugal act. contrast, reproductive health acceptability of the Reproductive reproductive health includes the principles of tolerance and
totally includes saying, “since Since many contraceptives disposes all people, including Health bill. access to abortion.” A local dialogue?
I love and accept you totally as have also been shown by children and adolescents, to the All these are in the name of columnist wrote in November Many Protestants, believers of
you are, including your bodily medical science to have various sexual act and the freedom to reproductive health and rights. 2008 that “In Mexico City… the other religions, and even non-
functions, I also totally accept ill effects, their use could signify decide if, when and how often What about the rights of parents? long struggle for reproductive believers share our belief in the
the possibility of our love bearing further contradictions and lies. It to reproduce, provided that And the rights of the unborn? health and rights culminated in dignity and value of human life.
fruit, the gift of a new child.” Thus, endangers then the physical well- these are not against the law. the recent passage of a law lifting Tolerance means respect for the
the unitive and the procreative being of the wife as well as the (UN Cairo Conference, Program What are some experiences in all restrictions on abortion.” right of other persons to profess
meanings of the sexual act cannot spiritual health of the marriage. of Action). other countries in relation to Many countries all over the world a different opinion and belief.
be separated from each other. Following this definition, reproductive health and related and the United Nations agencies However, tolerance cannot be
Textbooks consistently using Why are natural methods of birth if having a satisfying sex to family and life issues? work for reproductive health understood as believing that
the term “reproduction” instead control not contraception? life results in an unwanted Family and Life workers and rights until they have fully other peoples’ points of view are
of “procreation,” even if intended The natural methods simply pregnancy, the mental anguish and families in the Philippines, facilitated access to abortion. equally good as one’s own, since
for Catholic schools, should enable the wife to ascertain this causes will negatively to whom this Catechism is Underlying this concept of this would blur the lines between
be thoroughly checked for the when she is fertile and when affect the person’s mental and primarily directed, could easily reproductive or sexual health good and evil and renounce the
contraceptive mentality. They she is infertile. It is scientific social well-being unless one and clearly see the probable and rights is a view that radically judgment of a sound and well-
may confuse the students on the information placed at the service has access to contraception and goals of reproductive health and separates sexuality, procreation informed conscience.
Church’s clear teaching on family of either a procreative decision abortion. This is the convoluted rights advocates in the country, and the complementariness In fact, publicly proclaiming
and life. Presenting the views of or a non-procreative decision by reasoning behind UN agencies’ by looking at what is happening between men and women. It is one’s own beliefs is a service for
dissenting theologians as being the spouses. In this case couples insistence that reproductive abroad. In some countries, school a view that identifies pleasure dialogue, because through this
on equal authority with Church do not do anything to prevent health necessarily presupposes clinics are required to inform as the ultimate goal of sexuality Catechism / B7
Statements
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 2
January 18 - 31, 2010
B5
Evangelizing the
Dear Bishop George B. Rimando, D.D., Monsignor Oratio Imperata and its implications. I refer to our
Leonardo Vicente, V.G., Episcopal Vicars, Vicars common woundedness and our individual and
Forane, Reverend Monsignori, Reverend Fathers, collective need of healing. As we say in the Prayer,
Brothers, Sisters, and Lay Faithful: this can only be done by sincere repentance and
forgiveness. Otherwise, “without forgiveness there
Electorate
Greetings of Peace and Hope! is no future for our city.” Our evangelization plan
for the Davao City electorate should therefore be so
The Situation of Woundedness crafted as to facilitate and bring about the healing
Since Ash Wednesday of 25 February 2009 and of our individual and collective wounds. This is the
the succeeding Sundays and Feastdays, we have only way—and the Church’s way—of reconciling
been reciting on bended knees a special prayer broken relationships. Restoring just relationships
after communion. We prayed for healing of us all between individuals, families, political parties, etc.
in Davao City. For here, all of us have been, and still will greatly help in making the coming national and
are, nourishing wounds in our souls and spirit. local elections honest, peaceful, and credible.
These wounds of our hearts are expressed in Early in his papal ministry and before inviting us to
A Pastoral Letter
many forms of animosities and conflicts within celebrate the 2000th birth of Jesus Christ or the Jubilee
and among ourselves, our families, our workplaces, of the Redemption, John Paul already reminded us
our communities, and our country in general. We that we are a “Reconciled and Reconciling Church”
have elected leaders who with some of us brought (Encyclical Reconciliation and Penance, 2 December
personal woundedness into the socio-economic- 1984). He practiced what he said and wrote by going
political systems which have become corrupt and around the world and asking forgiveness from
prone to abuse and wrongdoing. This widespread the Indigenous Peoples, Jews, Muslims, and other
malaise negatively affected, and still is affecting, believers for the scandals and unchristian behavior
our sincere efforts at development, progress, peace of Catholics in the past. On 01 January 2004 World
and national unity. Day of Peace, he said “There is no peace without
As election campaign approaches these wounds justice, no justice without forgiveness.”
will be aggravated, widened and deepened by For this reason and especially during this year’s
political bickerings, character assassinations, black election campaign and beyond, let every Catholic
propaganda, blackmail, even murder. Ours is in Davao City be reminded that humble repentance
therefore a situation of woundedness. and mutual forgiveness is clearly expressed in every
Holy Mass we celebrate and attend especially in
The Healing Component in Evangelization the Penitential Rite, the Our Father, and the Pre-
Since we are going to evangelize a wounded communion Invocation “Lord, I am not worthy to
electorate in this city, there is an urgent need for receive you but only say the word and I shall be
healing of us all in this electoral system and its healed.”
local activities. While it is beyond the authority and Consequently, we would be shamefully
competence of the Church to change or transform contradicting ourselves, we would become divisive
the system, we in the Church can introduce a healing instead of reconciliatory, disruptive instead of
component in our evangelizing plan for the Catholics unifier when our homilies, public statements, talks,
who ar e citizens, taxpayers, registered voters, seminars, conferences, and personal and community
candidates, COMELEC officials and personnel, prayers contain entertaining but insulting jokes,
military, police and political party officers and sarcasms, insinuations, innuendos, gossips and rash
members. judgments. We would be losing our credibility and
This healing component should address the authenticity as Church.
spiritual wounds resulting from materialistic and
secular values that stifle the life of the spirit. The same Basis of our hope: Our inner goodness
should address the moral wounds resulting from We have great hope that this is possible because,
the loss of the sense of sin and calloused conscience. as we say in the Oratio Imperata, we are born with
Ignorance and non-awareness of both create a wound an inherent goodness which is not and cannot be
in the soul and spirit. Hence a serious need of the erased by our sin or crime. One great challenge of
YouthPinoy / B1 Faithful / B2
While addressing more than strong support. Mayumi was known to Later in 1973 “Eucharistiae directed to stretch out both hands “6. It is necessary that the
2,000 youth delegates in his “We believe in taking the right have participated and won in Sacramentum” published the making ‘the left hand a throne for faithful receive sound catechesis
homily, the Papal Nuncio credited step. And the best and most the WCOPPA World Singing new Rite for Eucharistic Worship the right hand, which receives in this matter, and that insistence
the youth behind the website for effective way is to saturate (the Champions League just this year. and Communion Outside of the King’ (Fifth mystagogical be laid upon the sentiments of
heeding the call of the Holy Father web) with good and wholesome Her brother Makisig is more Mass. The introductory norms catechesis of Cyril of Jerusalem, adoration and respect that are
to utilize the Internet in spreading websites.” popularly known as the child (No. 21) quote the “Memoriale n. 21: PG 33. col 1125, or Sources required towards this most holy
the good news. Showing his avid backing of superhero Super Inggo from Domini” letter almost literally chretiennes, 126, p 171; Saint sacrament. (cf. Dominicae cenae,
“The wonders of technology YouthPinoy’s thrust, Bishop the fantaserye of the same title. but excise the clause regarding John Chrysostom, Homily 47: n. 11). Care must be taken that
have opened a whole new venue Tirona shared a short but charming Incidentally, both are members the faithful’s taking the host PG 63, col. 898. etc.).* fragments of the consecrated host
for all of us to proclaim the acronym in his pep talk: KISS. “K of the Youth For Christ (YFC), from the ciborium. “* In practice the opposite are not lost (cf. Congregation for
Gospel,” Archbishop Adams is for knowledge of which the one of the allied groups of Indeed, the document insists direction has to be given to the the Doctrine of the Faith, May 2,
said. “Cyberspace is a Godsend website should primarily be a YouthPinoy. very clearly that whether the faithful: the left hand is to be 1972: Prot: no. 89/71, in Notitiae
for us who have a mission to tell source of. I is for involvement in Makisig rendered the Gary Eucharist is received on the placed upon the right hand, 1972, p. 227).
the world of God’s love, of God’s the affairs concerning the youth. Valenciano crowd-pleaser song tongue or in the hand, “Holy so that the sacred host can be “7. The faithful are not to be
good news.” The first S is for spirituality which “Shout for Joy” and together, the Communion must be distributed conveyed to the mouth with the obliged to adopt the practice of
In commemorating the all Filipino Catholics, especially siblings belted out “The Prayer” by by the proper competent right hand. communion in the hand. Each
solemnity of the Holy Child the young should exude. And Andrea Bocelli and Celine Dion. minister, who presents and “2. Again following the one is free to communicate in
Jesus, Archbishop Adams also the last S is for service dedicated Came next was acoustic crooner gives the consecrated host to teaching of the Fathers, insistence one way or the other.
made mention of the need for to evangelization.” RJ Jimenez, an alumnus of the first the communicant saying the is to be laid upon the importance “These norms and those
all to become child-like, as this Msgr. Quitorio then thanked edition of Pinoy Dream Academy. formula ‘The Body of Christ …’” of the Amen said in response indicated in the documents cited
will “lead us out of darkness to the delegates for supporting the While strumming his guitar, [my translation]. to the formula of the minister, above are designed to recall the
light.” endeavors of YouthPinoy. “For Jimenez drew applauses from Finally, in 1985 the ‘the Body of Christ’; this Amen duty of respect for the Eucharist
“To live this new life, we need sometime now, we have been the audiences with his signature Congregation for Divine is an affirmation of faith: “Cum and apply independently of the
to be child-like. When we become “groaning”, to borrow the words songs such as the comic “Miss Kita Worship sent a letter to the ergo petieris, dicit tibi sacerdos way in which communion is
the best adults, we become the of St. Paul to the Romans, that Pag Tuesday” and the romantic president of the U.S. bishops’ ‘Corpus Christi’ et tu dicis received.
best children of God.” young people take to heart the “If We Fall In Love.” conference. This letter approved ‘Amen’, hoc est ‘verum’; quod “Those who have the care
Aside from UST’s Dominican call of the Holy Father to make Aside from showbiz the practice and offered an confitetur lingua, teneat afectus” of souls should insist not only
priests and deacons, the internet as a new forum personalities, bands coming from example of the present letter (Saint Ambrose, De Sacramentis upon the necessary dispositions
concelebrating during the mass for proclaiming the Gospel— the YFC and the Dominican that replaced the one annexed 4, 25: SC 25 bis, p 116). for the fruitful reception of
were Federation of Asian Bishops’ especially to their peers. Today Network also cheered up the to “Memoriale Domini”: “3. The communicant who communion, which in certain
Conferences Asian Youth Desk it is fulfilled!” audience with their praise songs. “The Holy See, since 1969, has received the Eucharist in instances demands recourse to
Chairman and Infanta Bishop Esteban then called in the while maintaining the traditional the hand is to consume it before the sacrament of Reconciliation,
Rolando J. Tria-Tirona, OCD, DD, representatives from the different Promising future manner of distributing returning to his place, moving but also upon an external
Episcopal Commission on Youth organizations, archdioceses and Much is expected to result communion, has granted to aside yet remaining facing attitude which conveys a sense of
Chairman Legazpi Bishop Joel dioceses for the commitment from this launch and as an early those Episcopal Conferences the altar in order to allow the respect in general and expresses
Baylon, DD and Catholic Bishops ceremony, led by Bishop Baylon. bonus, UST gave a roaring show that have requested it, the faculty person following to approach in particular the belief of the
Conference of the Philippines’ The creed commits all the of support to YouthPinoy by of distributing communion by the minister. faithful in the Eucharist.
Media Office Director Msgr. catholic young people to use the pledging to link the YouthPinoy placing the host in the hands “4. It is from the Church that “From the Congregation for
Pedro Quitorio. cyberspace, the virtual world website to its official university of the faithful .... It would seem the faithful receive the Holy Divine Worship, April 3, 1985.
in proclaiming the Good News websites as well as reserving a opportune to draw attention to Eucharist, which is communion + Augustin Mayer, OSB—
Words of wisdom through their e-mails, shout-outs, special spot for the YouthPinoy the following points: in the Body of the Lord and in Prefect”
After presenting the plaque and comments and messages. website at the to-be launched UST “1. Communion in the hand the Church; for this reason the While this is not an exhaustive
token of appreciation to the Papal Internet Tiger Radio. should show, as much as communicant should not take study of the theme, I believe I
Nuncio, the party music went up Culminating concert With the website well on its way communion on the tongue, due from the paten or container, have provided His Excellency
again as the program drew closer The night was still young when from withstanding the demands respect towards the Real Presence as would be done for ordinary with enough material to
to its highlights. the fun part started. For starters, of the mission to evangelize, more of Christ in the Eucharist. For this bread, but the hands must be demonstrate to his hesitant
But before raising the curtains two dance numbers and a fashion activities that seek to promote reason emphasis should be laid, stretched out to receive from the parish priest that “Redemptionis
for the concert, Fr. Tiong show took off being the opening Christ-centered advocacies are as was done by the Fathers of minister of communion. Sacramentum” is in continuity
fondly welcomed and received salvo for the culminating concert. seemingly prepared to move out the Church, upon the dignity of “5. Out of respect for the with the most relevant teachings
YouthPinoy to their university. In Celebrities then joined in on the of their shells. So stay tuned and the gesture of the communicant. Eucharist, cleanliness of hands and practice of the Church and
his message, Fr. Tiong explained stage. First up were the Morales stay connected with YouthPinoy. Thus, the newly baptized at the is expected. Children need to be so discontinue this erroneous
the reason for the university’s siblings Mayumi and Makisig. Sign and get updated now! end of the fourth century were reminded of this. practice in the parish.
Ref lections
CBCP Monitor
B6 Vol. 14 No. 2
January 18 - 31, 2010
4th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year C (Luke 4:21-30); January 31, 2010
THE Philippines is basically an that put face of God and the many
agricultural country; it is not an faces of the poor” into our “economic
industrialized one. But it is a country relationships, policies, programs and
where most people are suffering structures” (CBCP, Exhortation on
because, as the Second Plenary Council Philippine Economy) and testify to it
of the Philippines noted, realities of by the life one lives? And who likes to
injustice are embedded in its political, live like Jeremiah who practiced what
economic and cultural systems. Take he preached? Who would be happy
for example the economic condition, to be called an ingrate, leftist, and be
which is tragically characterized by harassed, indicted and imprisoned for
an appalling mass poverty. “Such espousing such a cause? Who likes to
an abnormal economic situation is die like Jesus himself at a young age at
partly attributable to inequitable that, when there is so much opportunity
ownership of assets particularly land, to live, and live comfortably? Who is
to an oligarchic power system, to prepared to part with his sumptuous
misconceived economic policies, to meal, his car of the latest model, his
the prevailing economic structures, unrestricted travel, his signature
and to population growth which tends clothes, his fat deposit in the bank?
to be concentrated among the poor, Oh, how much better to save one’s
increasing the competition among skin! And various are the ways of doing
them for land and unskilled jobs. Thus it. One is to align one’s self with the
economic gains do not ‘trickle down’ oppressors of the poor, even waltzing
to the poor.” with them. Who knows?—one would
If Jesus had a pro-poor program, even receive thick envelopes that
we, as a Christian community, should contain millions, get promoted, and
follow suit by opting for the poor, live luxuriously. After all, no one will
denouncing how unjust the situation is bother about the collusion, because
and proclaiming that, as a sign that the power and wealth are on one’s side;
Kingdom of God has entered into our the protest of the poor are never
Philippine society, such an abnormal heard, anyway. As long as one is on
economic condition has to be reversed. the side of those in power, he would
According to the Compendium of the even be allowed to bark, provided
Social Teaching of the Church, “The he does not bite. Another is simply
fight against poverty finds strong to stop talking. One does not give a
motivation in the option or preferential damn about economic injustice, about
love of the Church for the poor.” lopsided economy, about progressive
When he addressed the people of the pauperization. Speak no evil! By doing
sugar plantation in Bacolod City on so, one does not create opposition and
Feb 21, 1981, John Paul II said: “The enemies. Why eat threats for breakfast
Church will not hesitate to take up the unnecessarily? Still another is to look
cause of the poor and to become the the other way, and probably the best
voice of those who are not listened in recourse is to offer people bread and
when they speak up; not to demand circuses. The poor will forget about
charity but to ask for justice. Yes, the their hunger; they will be entertained.
preference for the poor is the Christian Of course, many of us take one or two
www.catholic-resources.org
preference!” And we have to live what of these lines of action, and still profess
we preach! to uphold the values of Christianity.
But ever since John Paul II came to After all, one can always reason out that
the country in 1981, has the economic there is no use in uttering the Gospel
situation been reversed? Has the to the poor, knowing that it would
cause of the poor been taken up? If ultimately put the preacher six feet
the condition has even worsened, it below the ground. A live cat is always
is partly because it is scary to make implication of his words that so much to the law, a false prophet deserves against you” (Jeremiah, 1:18-19, First better than a dead lion! How much
this option, as this would entail the captivated them. In Luke’s theology, (Deut 18:20-22; Jer 23:9-30). Reading). We are supposed to be a better to be accepted, to be honored,
loss of much privilege and power. this hostility has been adumbrated by In the Bible, denunciation of such a prophetic people, but who would like to especially by the power-that-be in
Indeed, even to preach it is to invite the prophecy of Simeon: “Behold, this situation and living a life that witnesses preach a gospel that would bring in one’s our political, religious, economic and
disaster. To denounce our abnormal child is destined to cause the fall and to that denunciation is the task of a oppositionists, harassers, enemies, and cultural world!
economic system is to court opposition. rise of many within Israel, and to be a prophet; he is commissioned to stand up assassins? Is it not dangerous to tell No wonder, we suffer from a lack of
In today’s Gospel (Luke 4:21-30), this sign that is disputed” (Luke 2:34). The and tell the word of the Lord “against people and live accordingly that as a real prophets! Indeed, one wonders
is what Jesus himself got: the people opposition to Jesus will culminate in Judah’s kings and princes, against its nation we should “do away with greed, whether prophecy has died in our
rejected him, after realizing the his crucifixion, a fate that, according priests and people. They will fight selfishness, unhealthy competition and midst.
ENCOUNTERS
‘Cracking under pleasure’
IN the past it was more common to hear pumping out to him myriad paths to pleasure: Insecurities. We can easily create or imagine
people “cracking under pressure” but today, 100 plus TV channels, iPod delivered chewing problems for ourselves. These arise when we
Triumph of
unfortunately there are more and more teens gum music and cell phones to ease the become insecure as we compare ourselves
–especially among boys– who are cracking loneliness. And then there is the seriously excessively with our peers. We compare not
under pleasure. addicting stuff: drugs, no-consequence sex so much for what better talents they have but
Kevin Ryan, in a very intriguing article: and some of the vilest pornography the world for their apparent happiness due to better or
good sense
“Boys will be… doofuses? Educating boys has ever known. (…) Now all the pleasures of more material possessions. We can never tell
has never been easy. Why have we made it the flesh are low-hanging fruit, waiting to be if one is truly happy for what he has. God is
hellishly hard?” (http://www.mercatornet. plucked. Boys were not built for pleasure, but the only one who knows if someone is truly
com/sections/author_page/boys_will_be_ for adventure and challenges.” (Ibid.) happy for who he is. We have to learn to find
doofuses/) dis-cusses some factors leading Pressure isn’t all that bad especially when happiness, for example, in the gift of life and
to the underperformance among males. He we realize that some of life’s most necessary not in the gifts of life. Proper detachment
cites Mark Penn, a guru in social trends, things work under pressure. For example, from material things is also important if we THERE was wonderful cooperation at the last BUC (Bishops
who believes that things for men are getting car tires are pressurized to ensure safe and want to be happy. Ulama Conference) held January 8, 2010 in Davao City,
out of hand as statistics reveal how they are comfortable travel. The pistons that make • Multi-tasking can be Multi-taxing. Youth attended by representatives of government, military, and
“lagging women in every major category a car run are moved by the pressure from has such a great ability to adjust and execute religious leaders of denominations - Protestant, Islamic and
from lifestyle to health, from education to the explosive combustion of gas. Priceless many things at “almost” the same time. Catholic.
employment.” diamonds are natural products of carbon The temptation of doing many things at the When people honestly get together without malice and
Mr. Ryan believes that overindulgence in exposed to tremendous geological pressure. same time is due to the desire of “getting earnestly seek for solutions, then we could arrive at important
pleasure, among the many other possible The same goes for producing electricity or things over with” or “to acquire quick and decisions that will bring us peace. After all if ego and pride
causes, is one of the culprits for this decline pumping huge amounts of water into our easy solutions”. Unfortunately, we get dominate, these are only preludes to failure and chaos.
in the socio-academic skills in both young homes through pipes. These and so many many things done which are half-done and Let’s examine what wrong ideas there are and discard them.
and older males. Boys today experience less other things experience constant pressure require more work. Although multi-tasking is For example, the ideas of hate and revenge that bring wars
pressure in forms of exposure to real hard to serve many of our daily needs. possible for some material tasks (e.g. surfing and anguish to our people; is there no better alternative? If
work (i.e. as working in a farm or a store What can teenagers possibly do so as not + typing + chatting over the net) we cannot ideas do rule the world (as the Latin adage says: Idiae regunt
under their father’s supervision) and being to crack under the lure of unlimited pleasure forget that it cannot apply to our dealings with mundum), let’s get to the better ideas. Life is sacred. You
disciplined when they got drunk or got into that the world offers? Here are some possible persons who deserve our full and undivided have only one life and could you ever justly compensate for
a fight, and being under the constant guide helpful ideas to tinker about and put into attention and care. the value of one life?
of adults in preparation for a responsible action. • Live for the Week and Not Only its To counter those wrong ideas we need to propose and live
manhood. • Strategize Your NOs. We must learn not Ends. Our pleasure oriented world tends to the right ideas and ideals. For example, Benjamin Franklin
Society today, however, is shaping real-life only “to say NO” to something or someone, reduce our work as a means to accumulate had said this: “There never was a good war or a bad peace.”
Sponge-Bob teens who are soft, easily absorb but “knowing how to say it”. Thus, we must enough funds or energy so as to enjoy the Consider the past wars sacrificing millions of lives, just because
everything they can without filters and as strategize it for something concrete and “week-ends” in total self-indulgence. We pride and hate and ambition were dominating people’s hearts.
a consequence crack under immoderate positive which give reason to our ‘NOs’. must learn to work well and combine it Could you pay for all that waste of human existence? When
indulgence in pleasure. Ryan describes the We’re aware that it’s important to say no to with rest in every given day of the week. It’s will we ever learn?
American boy–which can readily apply to drugs, porn and bad company. We, however, always helpful and fruitful to live everyday Last Christmas we heard readings from the prophet Isaiah
many of today’s youth– in both an incisive can also say no to more positive things that as though it will be our last, striving to serve telling of the coming Messiah, Jesus Christ. “The people that
and alarming way: will help beef up our wills to help resist and love God and our neighbor, and thinking walked in darkness have seen a great light; on those who
“The social world of today’s boys is occasions of bad habits. And we don’t do last about ourselves. live in the shadow of death a light has shone” (Is. 9:2). Jesus
confusing and pleasure-packed. Every boy this simply to reject vices but also help to • Careful with Peer Pleasure. As we teaches us by word and example the very opposite of what
wants to grow-up and to succeed, but what grow in virtue. For example, we can say no to grow older we start to gradually disengage the world thinks. He teaches humility in place of pride, love
those terms mean has become extremely Facebook or Multiply, or to T.V. and Cable, to ourselves from parents and home. We instead of hate, generosity in place of greed.
bewildering. Our powerful culture assaults video games, our MP3 players, etc. But these develop our identity by socializing with “What will a man gain if he wins the whole world and ruins
his imagination with images of success: Kobe ‘NOs’ acquire more personal fulfillment and different people and groups. But we must his life? Or what has a man to offer in exchange for his life?”
Bryant, Tom Brady, Michael Jackson, James effectiveness if they’re done out of love and learn to moderate our “desire to escape” to (Mt. 16:26). The Bible, too, is against overdoing the feelings
Bond, the handsome guy with all the muscles respect for others, to serve our neighbors, to our peers. Charity begins at home, and we of revenge as St. Paul writes: “Bless those who persecute you;
who the girls lustfully fondle, the wise guy save and to share our things. must always be grateful and supportive first bless and do not wish evil on anyone. Rejoice with those who
with the quick mouth and fast hands, the guy • Follow Priorities Orderly. Even though for the gift that our families are. Only then do are joyful, and weep with those who weep. Live in peace
with the cool wheels. (..) Our mod boy’s head we may set priorities, we can still fool we truly give a measure of genuine concern with one another. Do not seek honors, but accept humble
is swimming with false idols and dubious ourselves, saying that what is more important for our friends as we deepen our knowledge duties. Do not hold yourselves as wise. Do not return evil
role models. How can he craft his character is getting things done even in a disorderly of each one. for evil, but try to earn the appreciation of others. Do your
out of that stuff?” way. The problem lies in juggling our Applying these basic considerations to best to live in peace with everybody. Beloved, do not avenge
“But it is pleasure that is his real nemesis. priorities out of whim. We often end up doing the different circumstances in our life will yourselves, but let God be the one who punishes, as Scripture
(…) The America boy doesn’t know cold or less-urgent things first, and leaving for later not only harness for us greater self-control. says: Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord. And it
hunger. He is physically cared for by his the urgent-urgent things. What is usually These will also give personal fulfillment and adds: If your enemy is hunger, feed him; if he is thirsty, give
family or the state until at least 18. Few have important tends to be the things we aren’t maturity as we learn to put all our God-given him to drink; by doing this you will heap burning coals upon
work or real responsibilities. For half the days inclined to do (i.e. chores vs. researching for talents to their best use. These may put an his head. Do not let evil defeat you, but conquer evil with
of a year, he goes to school for six hours. As a our project in the Internet or going to Mass amount of considerable pressure upon us, but goodness” (Rom. 12:14-21).
result, he is awash with free time. These days, vs. going to school or play practice) it’s a good form of pressure which manages
the Devil’s workshop is working overtime, • Don’t Give Security to Senseless to extract the best in each one us.
Social Concerns
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 2
January 18 - 31, 2010
B7
Catechism / B4 At stake / B4
way others can know exactly promotion of abortifacients, rapid ageing and collapse of bishops’ document actually may/09050819.html). right, on which all the others
what and how one thinks. One penalties for parents who do not the world population in 40 contributed to the election of The lesson to be learned from are based, and which cannot be
offers one’s thoughts for reflection allow their adolescent children years, or the drop of Philippine Obama. Archbishop Burke, as the US experience is the need to recuperated once it is lost.’”
to others while respecting their to engage in sexual acts, etc.), fertility below replacement rate Prefect of the Supreme Tribunal be unequivocal: family and life Ideally if Catholics will use
beliefs, but without assuming that or any other moral evil such as in 15 years, are reasonable of the Apostolic Signatura, a issues cannot be subordinated or the basic moral guidelines of this
all beliefs are equally valid. abortion, divorce, assisted suicide grounds to encourage elected position equivalent to that of even placed in the same footing Catechism in voting for both the
Attempts to enact legislation and euthanasia. Otherwise one officials to instead opt to file bills Chief Justice of the United States as other economic, political and national and local candidates
promoting anti-family programs becomes an accomplice to the banning contraceptive attempts Supreme Court, or President moral issues. Catholics cannot we would accomplish a moral
receive huge financial assistance moral evil in question. to bring fertility down. The of the Conseil d’Etat of France, allow themselves to be distracted renewal of our democracy. Before
and provide alluring incentives to The gravity of these fact that contraceptives are also holds immediately after the by issues such as corruption, this can happen we still have to
persuade our politicians to commit questions allows for no political abortifacient and cancerous Roman Pontiff, the highest environment, etc.; they have to be face the challenge of bringing
themselves to their advocacy. maneuvering. They strike at reinforces this argument. This judicial office in the entirety of single minded about protecting the Catechism to all levels of
Foreign-funded lobby groups the heart of the human person way elected officials will see that the Roman Catholic Church; his life, family and marriage. The our society including teaching
have been operating for more and the family and are non- those who promote family and court, as the final possibility for message has to be clear and everyone to apply its moral
than a decade to openly advocate negotiable. Supporting them life (including in their opposition most all appeals unless they go definite. principles. It goes without saying
for the enactment of population renders a candidate unacceptable to the Reproductive Health bill) to the Pope; he ranks higher than that any success in this endeavor
control laws, as well as abortion- regardless of his position on are not only the Bishops, as the the Roman Rota or the Apostolic Is a Catholic Vote possible for will need the strong support of
friendly laws in pursuit of the other matters. The right to life mass media frequently portray, Penitentiary. 2010 Election? the clergy. Nevertheless teaching
UN Cairo Conference objective is a paramount issue and hence but above all parents, whether In an interview published in In view of the inviolable dignity people how to apply these moral
of universal abortion rights. It cannot be placed on the same Catholics or not, who truly the Lifesite News at http://www. of the human person the Church principles should really belong to
makes one wonder why countries plane of discernment as the understand the issues, not only lifesitenew.com/ldn/2009/ has great respect for his freedom the laity since it may put the clergy
with below replacement fertility candidate’s positions on the as taught by the Church, but jan/09012805.html, Archibishop of choice. However Catholics are at the risk of getting involved in
rates, desperate for babies and environment, unemployment, as supported by data from the Burke called this proposal “a kind reminded of their responsibility partisan politics.
spending huge sums of money health care, or others. This is different fields of knowledge. of false thinking, that says, ‘there’s to form their consciences in One strategy that will help us
to encourage their own citizens because, as Pope John Paul II We Catholics should always the evil of taking an innocent and accordance with God’s truth get our acts together is to organize
to bear more children, contradict says, the right to life is “the first remember that we are not only defenseless human life but there with regards to family, life and lay groups into civic organizations
themselves by spending huge right, on which all the others members of God’s People, are other evils and they’re worthy responsible parenthood. This in keeping with the secular nature
sums of money to suppress our are based, and which cannot be but of Philippine society as of equal consideration.’ The well formed conscience it needed of participation in politics. We
population growth. recuperated once it is lost.” It is well. Hence when it comes to economic situation or opposition to help them make their faith are in the process of setting up
All these are consistent with also because the family is the basic voting in the 2010 Elections to the war in Iraq, or whatever it operative in living their life in a National Coalition for Family
Henry Kissinger’s 1974 National unit of society. A candidate lays and even beyond, and holding may be, those things do not rise to the Church and in society. The and Life. The NCFL will be a
Security Study Memorandum down the ground for refusing dialogues with our political the same level as something that Church will not tell Catholics SEC registered NGO that will
200 titled “Implications of solidarity with anyone if he leaders, we should carry out our is always and everywhere evil, for whom or against whom to serve as an umbrella organization
Worldwide Population Growth refuses solidarity with the unborn responsibilities and demand our namely the killing of innocent vote. The responsibility to make for community-based people’s
for US Security and Overseas in the first few days or months rights as citizens. When we speak and defenseless human life.” In political choices rests with each organizations, associations,
Interest” which identified the of life, or with the dying. Why with our Honorable Senators, his May 8, 2009 Keynote Address individual in light of a properly organizations, and NGOs that are
increase in world population as should anyone vote for such a Congressmen, Governors, at the National Catholic Prayer formed conscience, and that committed to safeguard, protect,
inimical to the interest of West. candidate? Mayors and other officials, let Breakfast Archbishop Burke participation goes well beyond uphold and promote Family and
This document has been coming us highlight our place of residence further stated, “There is no casting a vote in a particular Life by fighting against Abortion,
out in recent public debates on How should we Catholics engage in provinces and barangays element of the common good, election. Artificial Contraception, Divorce,
reproductive health policies, and questions related to family and rather than our parishes, our no morally good practice, which It is in this light that block voting Same Sex Marriage and the
is available on the internet. Do not life similar to the ones discussed membership in civic groups a candidate may promote and to like the Iglesia ni Kristo goes promotion of Sexual Immorality.
reproductive health advocates in this Catechism? rather than Church organizations, which a voter may be dedicated, against the grain for Catholics. It The Coalition aims to inform the
bow down to their impositions? Whenever we explain our and our occupation as office which could justify voting for a is therefore in the spirit of putting electorate of the national issues
Is it not more correct to say that desire to further strengthen the workers, businessmen, farmers, candidate who also endorses and a strong fight for family and life and concerns that impact on
they are the ones imposing their Filipino family, we should base firsherfolk, bus or tricycle drivers, supports the deliberate killing that the Episcopal Commission family and life, the stand that
policies on our country? our arguments primarily on legal, vendors, youth and women of the unborn, euthanasia, or on Family and Life crafted a national and local candidates
medical, economic, educational, advocates, and others. Let us the recognition of a same-sex Catechism on Family and Life have taken on these issues. It will
Is it morally acceptable to vote psychological, sociological and emphasize to them that we are relationship as a legal marriage. for the 2010 Elections. Although also provide pro-family and pro-
for an anti-family candidate? other scientific data rather than their constituents—citizens, The respect for the inviolable intended as an internal document life organizations the knowhow
With the foregoing on religious teachings alone. taxpayers and voters—who have dignity of innocent human life for the diocesan Ministers of to translate their religious and
considerations, it would not This translation of our faith into put them into office, and demand and for the integrity of marriage Family and Life and its workers, moral values into legal, social,
be morally permissible to vote legitimate inputs to the policy that laws protecting the Filipino and the family are so fundamental it is ultimately intended to help psychological, demographic, etc.
for candidates who support making process helps our elected Family be firmly upheld. to the common good that they the Catholic faithful to realize arguments that will enable them
anti-family policies, including officials see more clearly the cannot be subordinated to any the moral dimensions of the 2010 to make legitimate contributions
reproductive health (in the reasonableness of our advocacy. +PACIANO B. ANICETO, D.D. other cause, no matter how good elections and the need to exercise to the policy-making process in
particular understanding being For example, factual Archbishop of San Fernando, it may be.” This excellent address their power to vote according to issues that are related to family
presented in the recent debates, demographic data from the UN Pampanga can be found at (http://www. their conscience formed according and life.
which includes, among others, Population Division showing ECFL Chairman lifesitenews.com/ldn/2009/ to the mind of the Church. The Coalition membership
In Question 14 the Catechism will have two tiers. At
states: “It would not be morally the top tier are community
permissible to vote for candidates based organizations, people’s
who support anti-family policies, organizations, associations, other
including reproductive health NGOs. The second tier will
Abhorrent Poor
Disturbing Below average
Acceptable Average
Wholesome Above average
Exemplary E
xcellent
Buhay Parokya
Look for the
Title: Puntod naging isang mahabang sermon images of
Cast: Baby Forteza, Sheree, at komentaryong pangsosyal at Sto. Niño de
Mark Gil, Arnold Reyes, politikal lamang ang pelikula. Cebu; Santa
Pekto Sayang at may husay pa naman Clara and San
Director: Cesar Apolinario ang mga nagsiganap. Hindi Pascual Bailon.
Producer: ADC Productions malaman ng mismong pelikula
Screenwriters: Tammy Dantes,
(Illustration by
kung ang nais ba nilang ipahatid Bladimer Usi)
Cesar Apolianrio and
Melchor Encabo ay lungkot o saya sa gitna ng
Genre: Drama kahirapan. Maraming tauhan
Location: Manila at pangyayari ang pawang
Running Time: 100 mins. hindi kapani-paniwala kahit pa
Technical Assessment: 2.5 hango sa tunay na buhay ang
Moral Assessment: 2.5 kuwento.
CINEMA Rating: For mature Paano nga ba dapat ipakita
viewers 18 and above ang mukha ng kahirapan? Ano
ba ang tunay na kalagayan ng
Si Baby (Barbie Forteza) ay isang mga mahihirap sa lipunan?
pipi’t bingi na bata na lumaki sa Hindi masama at lalong hindi
isang mahirap na komunidad sa kasalanan ang pagiging mahirap
tabi ng estero. Pamumulot ng kung kaya’t hindi naman talaga
mga basura sa lawa ng Maynila problema kung ipakita man
ang tanging pinagkakakitaan sa pelikula ang mukha nito.
niya mula nang maulila siyang Ipinakita sa Puntod ang lahat ng
lubos. Araw-araw, tinitiis niya mabaho, marumi, kabulukan at
ang kahirapan ng buhay kapiling kawalang-pag-asa sa kahirapan,
ang kanyang mapang-abusong pero hindi pa rin naging malinaw
nakatatandang kapatid na si kung ano ang ibig nitong
Sarah (Sheree). Ang tanging sabihin. Pawang ipinakita ng
nagpapasaya na lamang kay pelikula ang kawalang-lakas
Baby ay ang palagian niyang at kawalang kapangyarihan
pagdalaw sa puntod ng ina. Dito ng mga mahihirap sa lipunan.
lamang siya nakakaramdam ng Wala silang lakas sa mga
kapayapaan at pakiramdam mayayaman, mga pulitko at
niya’y may karamay siya sa maging ang Diyos ay hindi sila
buhay kapag siya’y naririto. pinapakinggan. Pinapalabas ng
Ngunit kahit ang mumunting Puntod na sadyang may mga
kasiyahang ito’y mawawala lugar pa rin sa lungsod ang tila
sa kanya nang tanggalin ang tinalikuran na ng Diyos. Maging
mga labi ng kanyang ina sa ang natitirang mabubuting
puntod nito dahil hindi na sila tao ay nagiging masama rin
nakakabayad ng kaukulang upa. kalaunan o kung hindi ma’y
Dahil dito, pagsusumikapan nauuwi sa masamang kapalaran.
ni Baby na maibalik ang mga Talamak ang kasamaan at ang
labi ng ina sa puntod nito sa lipunang ipinakita sa pelikula ay
pamamagitan ng pag-iipon ng walang kinikilalang Diyos, batas,
pera. Sa tulong ng ilang kaibigan, gobyerno at kahit anumang
magdodoble-kayod si Baby kabutihan. Ang ilang salitang
upang makaipon. Ngunit hindi ginagamit din sa pelikula ay
pa rin magiging madali ang lahat nakakabahala. Maaring ito ay
para sa kanya at sa kanyang mga totoong nangyayari ngunit
kaibigan. para saan ba ang pagpapakita
Maraming ninais sabihin ang pa nito? Lumutang naman
pelikula ukol sa kahirapan ng bilang sentro ng kuwento ang
buhay. Ipinakita ng Puntod isang batang puno ng pag-asa
ang malabis na karukhaan sa at pagmamahal sa kapatid at
mata ng isang batang puno ng kaibigan ngunit ipinalabas
pag-asa. Kahanga-hanga na sana nilang ang kabutihang ito ay
ang simulain ng pelikula ngunit napakaliit kung ikukumpara
naging pawang mababaw at sa napakalawak na lipunang
manipis pa rin ang kinalabasan hindi kumikilala sa kahalagahan
nito sa kabila ng lawak ng sinakop ng buhay, kabutihan ng tao
nito sa mga usaping panlipunan. at pagmamahal ng Diyos. Sa
Marahil naging masyadong gigil mundong ipinakita sa Puntod,
ang mga may likha ng pelikula mas nakakalamang ang masama
na paigtingin ang kanilang sa mabuti at walang lugar ang
mensahe ukol sa kahirapan pag-asa para sa mahihirap. Ang
at kapabayaan ng gobyerno. mga kababaihan ay inaabuso
Labas tuloy ay naging malabis at karamihan ay nauuwi sa
ang pelikula sa pagpapakita maagang prostitusyon. Ilan
ng maraming mukha ng lamang ito sa maseselang
kahirapan na halos wala na ring konseptong inilahad sa pelikula
mararamdamang simpatya ang na hindi naman nabigyang-
manonood. Nalimutan nitong hustisya sa kabuuan. Bagama’t
maghain ng isang kaiga-igayang ang pangunahing tauhan ay
kuwento na magpupukaw sa isang bata, hindi nararapat ang
natutulog na damdamin ng pelikula sa mga manonood na
mga manonood. Sa halip ay wala pa sa hustong gulang.
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 2
January 18 - 31, 2010
C1
The Cross
A Supplement Publication of KCFAPI
and the Order of the Knights of Columbus
Participants of the basic micro-entrepreneurship seminar together with Facilitator Ms. Rowena Seblario (seated at center) during the 1st Social Improvement through Community Action Program (SICAP) training seminar held last January 9 at the Fr.
George J. Willmann Center in Intramuros, Manila.
KCFAPI
launches podcast
THE Knights of Columbus Fraternal
Association of the Philippines, Inc.
(KCFAPI) launched a podcast facil-
ity last December 18, 2009 at the
Fr. George J. Willmann Center in
Intramuros, Manila.
The Spiritual Director of KCFAPI,
Msgr. Pedro Quitorio III presided
over the blessing of the podcast
studio.
The podcast facility was construct-
ed by CBCPWorld, the information
technology arm of the Media Office
of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference
of the Philippines (CBCP).
The blessing was attended by the
Board of Trustees led by KCFAPI
Chairman Patrocinio R. Bacay, Cor-
porate Secretary Alonso L. Tan, and
(Standing - from L-R) KCFAPI President Antonio B. Borromeo and Treasurer Antonio T. Yulo, (From L-R) KCFAPI Executive Secretary Annie Nicolas, Executive Vice President Ma. Theresa Treasurer Antonio T. Yulo.
(Seated - from L-R) KCFAPI Executive Secretary Annie M. Nicolas, Corporate Secretary Alonso G. Curia, Fr. Provincial of the Society of Jesus Jojo Magadia, KCFAPI President Antonio B.
L. Tan, Most Rev. Archbishop Gaudencio B. Cardinal Rosales, D.D. and KCFAPI Executive Vice Borromeo and Treasurer Antonio T. Yulo during a courtesy call to the Founder Members The executive officers of the
President Ma. Theresa G. Curia, during the courtesy call held at the Arzobispado de Manila Committee on the occasion of the holy season held at the Jesuit House last December 15, KCFAPI also attended the event
last December 28, 2009. 2009. led by the President SK Antonio
B. Borromeo; Executive Vice-
Chairman’s President’s
Message Message
Antonio B. Borromeo
Patrocinio R. Bacay AS the curtains open for 2010, a fresh start
is upon us. We have set our goals for the next
TIME waits for no one, a brand New Year is upon us Though seeming success serves as elixir for man, it year and with hard work and constant prayer,
and there is no choice but to face it, hoping to make it is in families that we learn most. There is no better we will achieve those targets. Year 2009 closed
our best ever. Excitement and apprehensions are major way to prepare for the New Year than accepting our with a bang and we hope to replicate that or even exceed that. To attain those objectives,
sentiments of any “coming,” yet automatically reverses failures and with determination to do better. At the we need all the support from the Board of Trustees, the sales force who will drive up to
the flow of our thoughts to what have been. I believe end of the Year 2010, it would have been our choices gear 5 and you, our Benefit Certificates Holders. Of course, the personnel who man the
there is merit in this. As we prepare to tread the path of more than anything else that would have led us to ship needs to gird up and give their all so that they can deliver the goods as promised to
another year there is no denying that each one’s vision where we want to be by then. all stakeholders.
is to make it better for the nth time perhaps. So, what I wish to congratulate KCFAPI for a year very well 2010 is a national election year and as Filipino citizens we are duty bound to cast
can be healthier than to have a glimpse of our ups and done. May the New Year motivate all to take the extra our ballots. As Catholics we are bound by our faith to choose well the candidates we will
downs of the year that was. The downs could have mile as you have always done. vote for and pray very hard that only the truly deserving candidates make it to the final
been few fortunately. It’s time to savor the pleasure of To all our brother knights and their families I wish stretch. Let the guiding hand of the Holy Spirit all the more be with us in this time of need
the ups in life and remember how they were achieved. you a Very Happy and Inspired New Year. and decision.
Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association of the Philippines Inc., The Knights of Columbus Fra-
ternal Association of the Phil-
an established mutual benefits association is currently looking for: ippines Inc., is an established and
Auditor progressive mutual benefits associa-
Underwriting Supervisor tion operating for 51 years, has been
highly committed to provide mutual
Underwriting Assistant aid and assistance to its members and
Accounting Staff their immediate families.
BRO Staff – Loans, Maturities & Excess Payments KC Fraternal firmly believes that the
BRO Staff – Customer Care continued progress and success of the
association depends to a great extent
If you are dedicated, service-oriented, and have the promising potential to join us in our continuous drive on its human capital.
to provide mutual aid, assistance and excellent service to our members. Kindly send your comprehensive
resume’ thru fax number 527-2244 or hand-carry resume’ with a 2x2 photo and transcript of records to: KC Fraternal also believes that
through training and a host of other
benefits if coupled with hard work, will
help employees and the association,
attain their goals and objectives.
FRATERNAL BENEFITS
ICMS updating and outside plant facilities. diction with the theme: “VOLUN- Iloilo and Immediate Past Presi-
He graduated with academic distinction at the Uni- TEERISM: NEIGHBORS HELPING dent of CBCP; Most Rev. Jose S.
versity of Saint Louis in Tuguegarao City, Cagayan NEIGHBORS”, the event will be a Palma, Archbishop of Palo, Leyte;
GROUP
Valley in 2009. gathering of about 2,000 knights and Most Rev. Romulo T. dela Cruz,
Ugale, a scholar of the KC Philippines Foundation, family members coming from the Bishop of Kidapawan; Most Rev.
Inc since 2004, is the son of Edison S. Ugale, Sr., a mem- three Jurisdictions: Luzon, Mind- Leonardo Y. Medroso, Bishop of
ber of Council 7813 in Allacapan, Cagayan. anao and the Visayas. This national Tagbilaran and Most Rev. Julito B.
The Foundation receives scholarship funds from the convention is being held once in Cortes, Auxiliary Bishop of Cebu. Calendar of Activities for the month
KC Supreme Council that grants 36 collegiate scholars
every school year. This is apart from the existing schol-
every three years and the hosting
of which is rotated among the three
Also invited as one of the speakers
during the State Dinner is Hon. of January 2010
ars being funded by the Foundation. Jurisdictions. Hilario G. Davide, Jr., the Philip-
The scholarship program of the foundation is open Supreme Knight Carl A. Ander- pine Ambassador to the United January 10 – Voters’ Education
especially to the children of members of the KC Order son was invited to grace the affair Nations and former Chief Justice
who are at the tertiary level of education. to deliver his keynote address of the Supreme Court. January 11 – FBG Day
Aside from giving scholarship grants, the KC Philip-
pines Foundation also offers other charitable services such
during the opening of the business
session.
One of the highlights of the
convention is the awarding of
January 19 & 20 – FST Manila
as calamity aid, income generating programs and housing Among the church hierarchy the prestigious award, The Out- January 28 & 29 – FST Palawan
projects such as Gawad Kalinga. (KCFAPI News) who were invited and already standing Knights of Columbus
FBG
discusses
2010 plans,
programs
for FCs
THE Fraternal Benefits Group (FBG) has
recently presented the plans, programs
and activities of the Group for the Year
2010.
FBG also presented the proposed
incentive programs for the fraternal
counselors (FC) this year.
Part of the discussion was the set-
ting up of strategies of the FBG in 2010
such as the establishment of talent
management-IIAP; product portfolio;
and diverse corporate approaches.
Area Managers who attended were
Vimar L. Trinidad from the Metro Ma-
nila Achievers; Damaso R. Hernandez of
Metro Manila Chancellors; and Reynaldo
D. Valencia from the Metro Manila
Dragons.
The meeting happened last December
29, 2009 at the Fr. George Willmann, S.J.
Center in Intramuros, Manila.
Joseph P. Teodoro, Vice President of
FBG, presided the meeting.
This year, the Knights of Columbus
Fraternal Association of the Philip-
pines, Inc. (KCFAPI) is pursuing the
theme “Get Everyone Achieve Records
(G.E.A.R.) 5 Cambio Quinta”. (KCFAPI
News)
The Cross
CBCP Monitor
C4 Vol. 14 No. 2
January 18 - 31, 2010
KC Luzon holds retreat in Tagaytay THE Knights of Columbus Luzon Jurisdiction organized a retreat
for its State Officers and other officials on January 9-10, 2010.
Held at the La Salle Villa in Tagaytay City, the spiritual exercise
was intended to deepen the spirituality of leaders vis-à-vis their
roles as officers of the Order.
Msgr. Pedro Quitorio III, Assistant State Chaplain of the Luzon
Jurisdiction, was the Retreat Master.
The retreat was attended by the following State officers: Luzon
State Deputy Alonso L. Tan; State Secretary Arsenio Isidro G. Yap;
State Treasurer Joven B. Joaquin; State Advocate Justice Jose C. Reyes,
Jr., and State Warden Pascual C. Carbero.
The State Directors like Euberto G. Lorenzo, State Seminar Direc-
tor; Raoul A. Villanueva, State Auditor; Deogenes V. Francia, State
Ceremonial Director; Miguel T. Yu, State Ways and Means Chair-
man and Luis A. Adriano, Jr., State Spiritual Formation Chairman
also participated.
Edgardo R. Navarro, Jaime Tolentino and Gregorio S. Gonzales
who are the State Formators also joined the retreat. (Kate Laceda)
KC Luzon’s
recruitment
incentive ends
“SOAR High For New Volunteers,” a membership recruitment
KC Officials together with Msgr. Pedro C. Quitorio III as the Retreat Master during the spiritual retreat held last January 9-10 at the La Salle Villa in Tagaytay City.
incentive of the Knights of Columbus Luzon Jurisdiction, ended
on January 11, 2010.
Luzon Deputy Alonso L. Tan (2nd from left) together with State Secretary Arsenio Isidro G. Yap (leftmost), State Program
Director Bonifacio B. Martinez (center) and State Disaster Relief Operation Chairman Romulo B. Estrella (rightmost) during
their visit at the Missionaries of Charity in Delpan Tondo, Manila last December 10, 2009. Grocery items were given as Luzon Deputy Alonso L. Tan (3rd from right) together with State Program Director Bonifacio B. Martinez (3rd from left),
Christmas gifts to 49 children under the care of the Sisters of the Missionaries of Charity headed by Sister Cristeta. State Disaster Relief Operation Chairman Romulo Estrella (leftmost), and State Youth Director Conrado S. Dator, Jr.
(rightmost) during the distribution of groceries and clothing to Brother Knights who were affected by Typhoon “Pepeng”
in District S53 of the Diocese of San Pablo, Province of Laguna last December 10, 2009. Councils which were covered
are 4103-Cabuyao, 12318 and 14779 both are in Sta. Rosa City. A total of 139 grocery bags and 18 boxes of used
clothes were distributed. Fraternal Counselor Bro. Teddy Samson and Grand Knights of the councils assisted during
the relief distribution.
Luzon Deputy Alonso L. Tan (2nd from left) attended as guest speaker in the 43rd Installation of Officers of Msgr. Antonio
Padilla Assembly ACN 1582 in Dagupan City last December 12, 2009. The installation was led by Faithful Navigator
Michael B. Fernandez (2nd from right). LD Tan was joined by State Program Director Bonifacio B. Martinez (not in photo)
& State Disaster Relief Operation Chairman Romulo Estrella (also not in photo). Most Rev. Socrates B. Villegas, DD
(center), the newly installed Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Lingayen-Dagupan also graced the occasion as keynote Knights of Columbus Mindanao Jurisdiction donated boxes of used clothing for the victims of Typhoon Ondoy and Pepeng
speaker. LD Tan and the rest of the state officials paid courtesy call to Archbishop Villegas. through Caritas Davao last December 4, 2009.