•A3 Synod

Pope closes Middle East

with impassioned •B1 Ourselves
‘We Must Never Resign
to the Absence
•C1 The Cross
A Supplement Publication of KC Life and
call for peace of Peace’ the Order of the Knights of Columbus

Caritas Filipinas appeals PPCRV seeks election

for food aid inquiry
THE social action arm of the Catholic Bish- A CATHOLIC Church-based poll watchdog is
ops’ Conference of the Philippines made a seeking an investigation regarding the delayed
preliminary appeal for aid recently for victims deliveries of voting materials that hampered
of typhoon “Juan” who are at risk of going Monday’s village and youth council elections.
hungry. The Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible
The country’s strongest typhoon in four years Voting is demanding the Commission on Elec-
started to lash at least seven Northern Luzon tions to explain why such glitches occurred
provinces and Metro Manila on October 18, despite assurances that the conduct of the polls
sending hundreds of families into evacuation would be smooth sailing.
centers. Henrietta de Villa, PPCRV national chair-
Caritas / A6 October 25 - November 7, 2010 Vol. 14 No. 22 Php 20.00 Inquiry / A6

Church groups call on gov’t: protect Filipino workers

VARIOUS Church-based groups retariat of Social Action, Justice hats by Korean managers and in Subic Bay Freeport Zone. Industries and Construction, According to them, the previ-
called on peace-loving Filipinos and Peace expressed alarm over they work on contractual basis The groups remain hopeful Philippines, Inc. as we remind ous government failed to listen
and justice advocates to rally reports of abuses, maltreatment and the salary is far less than the Aquino Administration will him of his promise: hindi sa bal- “to the cry of our workers”.
behind Filipino workers and and violations of basic human what the company promised to move and listen to the workers’ uktot na daan kundi sa matuwid They said they are saddened
push the Aquino government for rights committed by Hanjin them, far less than their South clamor for better treatment and na daan ang ating dadaanan”, that high government officials
a more humane treatment and Heavy Industries and Construc- Korean counterparts,” the state- observance of health and safety so if the contract is onerous and in the previous administration
worker-friendly environment. tion – Philippines Inc. company ment said. measures at HHIC-Phils. disadvantageous to the Filipino allowed the Korean company to
In a statement sent to CBCP officials against Filipino work- Hanjin Heavy Industries and “Let us call upon President people, the government should violate laws and abuse the rights
Media Office, the Diocesan So- ers. Construction – Philippines Inc. Benigno Simeon C. Aquino III to revise and amend the contract to of Filipino workers, just because
cial Action of Iba, Urban Mis- “They are slapped, kicked, (HHIC-Phils. Inc.), is a Korean review the investment contract protect the rights of our work- they have stakes in the company.
sionaries and the National Sec- boxed, knocked heads or hard Shipbuilding company located of Hanjin Heavy Equipment ers,” they said. Protect / A6

‘Stop mining in our region’

—Eastern Visayas bishops
By Pinky Barrientos, FSP

SIX bishops from Eastern

Visayas have made an
impassioned plea on
government leaders to stop
mining in the region.
The mining aggression in Eastern
Visayas will only worsen the already
deteriorating state of the environment
and destroy the livelihood of the people,
they said.
“We call on our responsible leaders
in government, in the private sector
and all those who harbor intentions of
mining our region to listen to the voices
of our people, ‘Bring back the Beautiful
Land we had once; STOP MINING IN
OUR REGION’,” the bishops said in a
statement issued on Oct. 22.
Both government and private sectors
have shown keen interest to develop the
mining industry in the territory.
But the prelates criticized the “mis-
placed priorities” of some local leaders
accusing them of acting “more as agents
of the mining firms rather than agents
of the people.”
© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media

The bishops noted in the statement

that several mining permits for explo-
ration and mining production sharing
agreements (MPSAs) have been hastily
issued in many parts of the region’s Honor guards stand at attention for the departure of Archbishop Edward Joseph Adams (center), apostolic nuncio to the Philippines, at the Borongan Airport in Eastern Samar, Oct. 22. Adams led the
Eucharistic celebration marking Borongan diocese’s 50th anniversary on the same day. Also in the photo are Borongan Bishop Crispin Varquez (from right), Eastern Samar Rep. Ben Evardone and
islands of Samar, Leyte and Biliran. Borongan Mayor Ma. Fe Abunda.
Mining / A6

Cardinal Rosales pays tribute Pontiff announces new

to environmental advocate Evangelization Synod
BENEDICT XVI announced
MANILA Archbishop Gauden- “The incident took place at
cio B. Cardinal Rosales paid trib- about 12:30 p.m. 19 years ago,” on October 24 the theme for
ute to one of his parish priests in the prelate said as he under- the next general assembly
the Diocese of Malaybalay who scored the need to protect the of the Synod of Bishops: The
was fatally ambushed by men environment for the benefit of new evangelization.
believed to have been hired by the succeeding generations. The Pope made the an-
illegal loggers 19 years ago. Rosales has always fought for nouncement at the closing
The 78-year old prelate re- environmental protection. The Mass of the Special Assembly
called Fr. Nery Lito Satur as a subject has always been part of for the Middle East of the Syn-
strong and credible advocate his homilies and lectures before od of Bishops, and repeated it
www.indiatalkies.com

against illegal logging. the religious and academic com- before praying the Angelus at
© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media

Satur then was only 29 years munities. midday with those gathered
old and one of Malaybalay’s He said natural calamities in St. Peter’s Square.
youngest priests. Media ac- such as flooding and landslides The next Ordinary Gen- Pope Benedict XVI
counts revealed the priest’s head could have been avoided had the eral Assembly of the Synod of
was smashed with a rifle butt forests remained as they should Bishops will be held in 2012, Quoting Pope Paul VI, he
and later shot pointblank with be. Trees prevent soil erosion and will be dedicated to the added, “The Church exists to
Rosales
a shotgun. Tribute / A6 theme “The New Evangeli- evangelize, that is to say, to
zation for the Transmission preach and to teach, to be the

Catholic ‘apathy’ saddens prelate

of the Christian Faith,” the channel of the gift of grace, to
Pontiff said. reconcile sinners with God,
Noting that Oct. 24 marked to perpetuate the sacrifice
not only the end of the Mid- of Christ in the Holy Mass,
RETIRED Archbishop Oscar during such a shameful episode east synod, which considered which is the memorial of his
Cruz expressed sadness over the in their church,” he said. the theme “Communion and death and of his glorious res-
seeming apathy from Catholic He said it is ironic that Witness,” but also World urrection.”
believers in the face of direct many believers don’t seem Mission Sunday, which con- “The missionary task,” Bene-
and strong attacks against their to mind these direct at- sidered the theme “The Build- dict XVI reflected, “is not to
religion. tacks against their church, ing of Ecclesial Communion bring about revolution in the
Cruz is particularly referring considering that they have is the Key to Mission,” the world but to transfigure it,
to the attitude of the faithful in been fulfilling their Sun- Holy Father called attention drawing power from Jesus
defending the church over calls day obligations and in other to the similarities between Christ who ‘convokes us at the
for it to stop meddling over the church-related activities. the themes. table of his Word and Eucharist,
birth control issue. “Oh yes, churches are full “Both invite us to look upon to taste the gift of his Presence,
“Truth to say, in this particular on Sundays. People frequent the Church as a mystery of to form ourselves in his school
case, the silence of these well novenas and processions in communion that, by its nature, and live more and more con-
spread Catholic organizations honor of their favorite Saints. is destined for the whole person, sciously united to him, Master
was deafening. They were al- But their faith appears both Illustration by Bladimer Usi and to all people,” he said. and Lord.’” (Zenit)
most all so peaceful and at ease Apathy / A6

www.cbcponlineradio.com www.cbcphealthcare.org www.cbcpmedia.com

 World News
CBCP Monitor
A2 Vol. 14 No. 22
October 25 - November 7, 2010

Synod looks at 41 Vatican Briefing

proposals for Pope

Benedict XVI to visit Venice next May
Cardinal Angelo Scola said Benedict XVI will visit Venice
on May 7-8, also stopping in Aquilea, which is considered a
mother Church for many local Churches in northeast Italy,
Slovenia, Croatia and Austria. The papal visit will occur 26
years after Pope John Paul II’s visit to Venice, and almost 40
years after Pope Paul VI’s. Scola described the upcoming visit
ROME, Oct. 21, 2010—For
a call to “re-center an integral proclamation of Christ’s coming
now at least, the work of the
in the life of faith.” (Zenit)
synod on the Middle East is
focused on 41 proposals that,
after further revisions, will be Pope calls for major int’l reforms to deal with world hunger
presented to Benedict XVI this In his message for World Food Day on Oct. 16, Benedict XVI
Saturday. said persistent world hunger calls for international reforms
Among the most representa- that focus on long-term solutions as well as short-term emer-
tive topics included in these gency food aid. The pope said the theme of this year’s day,
proposals is ecumenical dia- “United Against Hunger,” should remind everyone of the
logue, interreligious dialogue responsibility to support the agricultural sector. Freedom from
with Muslims and Jews, and hunger, he said, means ensuring not only that enough food is
the decisive importance of the available, but also that everyone has daily access to it. (CNS)
Christian presence in the Mid-
dle East. New members for the Doctrinal Congregation
Regarding this last objective, The Pope has named two cardinals and two archbishops,
the synod fathers have been all coming from the Roman Curia, to the Congregation for
stressing a duty to protect the the Doctrine of the Faith. They are: Cardinal Peter Turkson,
identity of the Eastern Catholic president of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace; Car-
Churches, to reinforce com- dinal Marc Ouellet, prefect of the Congregation for Bishops;
munion within the Catholic Archbishop Angelo Amato, president of the Congregation
Church among bishops, clergy for Saints’ Causes; and Archbishop Kurt Koch, president of
and faithful (ad intra) and with the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity. (Zenit)
the other Churches and ecclesial

www.blogs.reuters.com
communities (ad extra). Chile miners’ flag hung in pontiff’s apartment
The proposals call the world’s Benedict XVI hung in his apartment the flag signed by the 33
attention to the problems linked trapped Chilean miners, praying daily for their rescue, said Vati-
to emigration and immigra- can spokesman and Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi. Lombardi
tion in the region and to the spoke of the miners’ plight and the Pope’s prayers during the
promotion of religious liberty, most recent edition of Vatican Television’s “Octava Dies.” The
including that of worship and The proposal list was pre- rated 194 proposals, which Sunday with a solemn Eucharis- miners were all pulled to safety last Oct.13, after being trapped
conscience. sented today at the 12th general were unified and reduced to 41, tic celebration. below ground since Aug.5. On Oct. 7, the Pope was presented
Noteworthy is constant ref- congregation of the Special As- explained Archbishop Nikola The 41 proposals, articu- with a flag that had been signed by the 33. (Zenit)
erence to a need to intensify sembly for the Middle East of Eterović, secretary-general of lated in an introduction, three
cooperation among the Catholic the Synod of Bishops. the synod. chapters and a conclusion, Pope pledges Catholic support for bettering Korea
hierarchies in the Middle East Along with the Pope, 162 The document is now be- were read by special secre- Receiving the new Korean ambassador to the Holy See on Oct.
through meetings, initiatives of synod fathers participated in ing analyzed by the working tary of the synod, Archbishop 17, Pope Benedict XVI praised the Republic of Korea’s work for
solidarity, and the formation of the assembly, coordinated by groups, which can propose pos- Joseph Soueif, archbishop of peace and its role as an “important player” on the world stage.
priests and laity. The proposals the president-delegate on duty, sible amendments. A final list Cyprus of the Maronites, and He pledged the Church’s help to advance the common good,
also stress the importance of Patriarch Ignace Joseph III will be presented on Saturday by the general-relator, Cardinal- noting the inspiration the faithful take from the example of the
media in transmitting the teach- (Ephrem) Younan of Antioch of morning, at the last general designate Antonios Naguib, Korean Martyrs. Ambassador Han Hong-soon presented letters
ings of the Church. the Syrians. congregation. patriarch of Alexandria of the of credence to the Pontiff on Oct. 21 at the Vatican. (CNS)
Trimming down Working groups had elabo- The synod will then close on Copts. (Zenit)
Pope tells seminarians abuse crisis cannot discredit
priestly mission

In wake of scandals, Irish

In a letter to the world’s seminarians, Pope Benedict XVI
said that in the face of widespread religious indifference and
the recent moral failings of clergy, the world needs priests
and pastors who can serve God and bring God to others. He
encouraged seminarians to overcome any doubts about the

bishops call for year of renewal

value of the priesthood and priestly celibacy that may have
been prompted by priests who “disfigured” their ministry by
sexually abusing children. He said that “even the most repre-
hensible abuse cannot discredit the priestly mission.” (CNS)
ROME, Italy, Oct. 23, 2010—The Irish In his March 19 letter, the Pope had invited This, the bishops explained, will be “an Pope praises Colombia’s Catholic roots
bishops have announced plans for a year Irish Catholics to devote their ordinary Fri- opportunity for all to avail of Scripture- Benedict XVI is praising the “deep Catholic roots” of Colombia,
of prayer for renewal in the light of clergy day penances to the intention of healing and based prayer to guide the renewal of which he says are an “inexhaustible source of energy” and an
sexual abuse scandals that have roiled “the long-term process of restoration.” He the Church in Ireland at this time.” In “inspiration to be committed to the noblest causes.” The Pope
the Church. also encouraged them to fast, pray, read the addition, the bishops will encourage said this on Oct. 18 when he received in audience Colombia’s
Using Pope Benedict XVI’s guidance as Scriptures, and works of mercy “to obtain the Catholics to participate in Eucharistic ad- new ambassador to the Holy See, César Mauricio Velásquez
the core of the initiative, the bishops hope grace of healing and renewal for the Church oration, confession and Friday penance. Ossa. The Pontiff recalled how the Church has marked the
to promote healing within the Church in Ireland.” They will also pray the special prayer for development of Colombia, not only in the last 200 years, but
through reconciliation, adoration and He also encouraged them to go to confes- the Church of Ireland included at the end ever since the arrival of Spaniards in America. (Zenit)
Scripture reading. sion more often and to spend more time in of the Pope’s March letter.
At the conclusion of their annual prayer before the Eucharist. In a statement, the bishops said they
Pope welcomes Slovenia’s moves on ‘erased’
meeting Oct. 19, the bishops indicated The bishops said they will put these sug- welcomed the upcoming Vatican inves-
Pope Benedict XVI said he is pleased with recent efforts by
that their program would be based on gestions into action, recognizing the need for tigation of certain dioceses as well as
Slovenia to address the problem of the “erased.” In an Oct. 22
suggestions made by Pope Benedict XVI “profound renewal.” They proposed that the seminaries and religious congregations
address to Slovenia’s new Vatican ambassador Maja Marija
in the pastoral letter he sent to Ireland’s “first step” in the process to be the observance in the country. They hoped that it “will
Lovrencic Svetek, the Pope referred to a recent law that would
Catholics in March. of the Year of St. Matthew. assist in purifying and healing the Church
allow the “erased” to apply for citizenship. “This is an impor-
Beginning with the first Sunday of Advent, The renewal will follow the Church’s in Ireland and will help to restore the trust
tant step forwards in the attempt to solve the cases of those
Nov. 28, the Irish Church will begin a year of liturgical reading of the Gospel of Mat- and hope of the faithful in our country.”
people who lost the right to residency, work and health care
prayer, penance, and spiritual renewal. thew in the Sunday Mass celebrations. (CNA)
assistance,” the Pope said. (CNA)

Cardinal Van Thuân seen as model of hope Historical shrine draws Mandalay faith
MANDALAY, Oct. 25, 2010—The sacred Margaret Khyu, a parishioner.
ROME, Oct. 22, 2010--The diocesan when Cardinal van Thuân traveled to Marian Shrine is drawing more people The Marian Shrine, Mandalay archdio-
phase of the canonization process New York he would visit the Vietnam- to come and live in Chanthargone vil- cese is a popular pilgrimage site that draws
opened today in Rome for Cardinal ese Catholics who resided there, in the lage, 555 kilometers north of Yangon. over 1,000 visitors to the annual church feast
François Xavier Nguyen van Thuân parish of the Most Precious Blood, in the New arrivals say they are attracted by day, which falls on the Full Moon Day.
(1928-2002), who is remembered by his city’s Chinese neighborhood. the tranquility and spiritual benefit For this year, Full Moon Day falls on Oct.
countrymen as an example of hope. The priest recalled that Cardinal from church activities and presence of 23. So the Mass, procession, saying rosary
The opening ceremony took place van Thuân was a “very gentle and the Blessed Mother. and benediction will be held on the eve-
at midday in the Conciliation Hall of humble” person “with a good sense “When I was feeling troubled and ning of Oct. 22 and morning of Oct. 23.
the Lateran Palace in Rome, presided of humor.” He said that many young unhappy, I went to the Church, talked During World War II, fleeing villagers
over by Cardinal Agostino Vallini, the people “admired him and wanted to to Mother Mary and visit the Sacrament. dug a pit and buried the iron statue of
Pope’s vicar for the Diocese of Rome, imitate him.” Then all my troubles disappeared,” Our Lady of Lourdes because she was
and Cardinal Peter Turkson, current For Salesian Brother Domenico Nam, Sanda Htun, a villager said. too heavy to carry.
president of the Pontifical Council for the cardinal was “a great example of U Ngwe Gyi, a parishioner also dedi- The villagers finally recovered the statue
Justice and Peace. hope, after so many years in prison,” cated to Our Lady of Mary, said: “We after having dug many places in 1958.
Also, Cardinal Turkson presided over and he said that the Church in his get a chance to attend daily Mass and To their surprise the statue was in
a Eucharistic celebration in memory of country “finds itself in a very difficult for elderly people like me, we can spend upright position and not lying as de-
the Servant of God in the Roman church situation because of the Communist the rest of our life peacefully.” scribed by the villagers who buried it.
of Santa Maria della Scala, of which he regime.” Father David Kyaw Swa, a parish Moreover, the statue´s face was clean,
was the titular bishop. Attending the However, there are “many Catholic priest said older parishioners used to with no rust or dirt.
ceremony were members of the dicast- families that pray together. Devotion to spend a couple of months here. Now Chanthagone village was resurrected
ery, cardinals, bishops, relatives, friends Cardinal van Thuân is spreading among about 50 Catholic families live in Chan- in 1963 around that site and since then,
and others who had the opportunity to them,” and this generates “many voca- thargone. Ten years ago, there were 30 feasts of the Blessed Mother were cel-
know the cardinal during his life. tions” as fruits. families but now it has increased said ebrated regularly. (UCAN)
www.pcgp.it

The diocesan phase of the canoniza- For Sister Assunta, of the Institute of
tion process will involve gathering Mary Help of Christians, what was most
documentation of the life, writings, admirable about Cardinal van Thuân Festival celebrates Korean interreligious unity
virtues and sanctity of Cardinal van part in the celebrations for the opening was his “immense charity,” as well as
Thuân. of Cardinal van Thuân’s canonization his “very profound hope.” SEOUL, Oct. 25, 2010—Organizers of ciety,” Reverend Rhee added.
While serving as the coadjutor arch- cause were Vietnamese residents in He was a person who was able to an interreligious festival in Korea have In his congratulatory message to
bishop of Ho Chi Minh, the prelate Rome. Vietnam has a Catholic popula- give “true justice: that of forgiveness,” vowed to promote understanding the festival, President Lee Myung-bak
was arrested in 1975 and detained for tion of 7 million (6% of the population), the religious said, adding that when she among various religions and called on asked the religions’ cooperation to help
13 years in a Communist re-education making it the second largest Catholic was very young she saw him sometimes all faiths to work for peace. spread love and harmony.
camp in Vietnam. In 1988, he was liber- population in Asia after the Philip- in Saigon (today Ho Chi Minh City). “Though our country is multi-reli- The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tour-
ated and forced into exile. Pope John pines. “I pray every day to imitate his vir- gious, we have showed mutual coop- ism sponsored the event held at the National
Paul II welcomed him to Vatican City ZENIT spoke with Sister Cecilia, who tues in my consecrated life,” said Sister eration and harmony,” said Reverend Museum of Korea in Seoul, with the theme
and entrusted him with responsibilities knew the cardinal personally, and who Assunta. Rhee Kwang-sun, co-chairman of The Let’s Go Together with One Heart.
in the Roman Curia. often visited him in his apartment in After completing the diocesan phase, Korean Council of Religious Leaders Each religion set up a booth display-
The Vietnamese archbishop served as Rome, where he always received his the Vatican phase would begin which (KCRL) who organized the 14th Korean ing religious artifacts. Hands-on activi-
vice-president of the Pontifical Council compatriots with special kindness. would involve a commission of theo- Religious Culture Festival on Oct. 23. ties have also attracted visitors.
for Justice and Peace in 1994, and was “When he fell ill we went to visit him logians determining whether or not KCRL comprises of leaders of Bud- The Catholic booth offered rosary
its president from 1998 to 2002. He was in the hospital,” she recalled. “His death Cardinal van Thuân lived the virtues dhism, Catholicism, Confucianism, bracelet-making while the Buddhist
made a cardinal in 2001. He died in was a very hard moment although we to a heroic degree. Should this be the Protestantism, Korean traditional reli- booth let people paint a lotus mural.
September 2002. knew that the suffering he lived here on case, he would be declared Venerable. A gions as well as Chondogyo and Won Other highlights of the festival includ-
earth had greater meaning. Truth and miracle through his intercession would Buddhism, both founded in Korea. ed performances by singers, dancers and
Countrymen forgiveness triumphed.” be then be needed for his cause to ad- “As religious people, we will try our magicians, along with a drawing contest
The majority of the faithful who took Father Cuong Pham recalled that vance toward beatification. (Zenit) best to make our religions closer to so- for elementary students. (UCAN)
 News Features
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 22
October 25 - November 7, 2010
A3

Pope closes Middle East Synod

with impassioned call for peace
VATICAN City, Oct. 24, 2010— During the homily at the syn- solution to conflicts.
Peace is possible and urgent in od’s closing Mass, Pope Benedict “We must never resign our-
the Middle East, where wars, called the encounter a “truly selves to the absence of peace.
violence and terrorism have extraordinary experience,” not Peace is possible. Peace is ur-
gone on for “too long,” said the just for participants, “but for the gent,” he said.
Pope at the concluding Mass good of the Church.” He told It is also the “indispensable
of the Vatican’s synod on the the many Synod Fathers that condition for a life of dignity for
Middle East. He invited prayers they now return home from this human beings and society” and
for the region and assured its “powerful moment of ecclesial “the best remedy to avoid emi-
Christian inhabitants that they communion” to their missions, gration from the Middle East,”
are “never alone.” knowing that they are united he added.
The synod, two weeks of and remain in God’s love. Referring to Psalm 122’s call
discussions on the state of Chris- He hoped that the positive ex- to pray for the peace of Jerusa-
tians and the Church in the Mid- perience of being “united, heart lem, he said “we pray for peace
dle East, concluded on Sunday and soul, in faith, in hope and in the Holy Land. We pray for
with a Eucharistic celebration in charity,” would be repeated peace in the Middle East, un-
that showed the “unity in di- in Middle Eastern communities. dertaking to try to ensure that
versity” of the Catholic Church. Guided by prayer and by living this gift of God to men of good-
Joining Pope Benedict XVI in true unity, he said, Catholics will should spread through the
the celebration of the Mass were in the region will also be able whole world.”
177 bishops from all over the to pursue dialogue with other Christians can also contribute
Middle East and neighboring Christians more readily. to the promotion of “authentic
nations who had taken part in While Christians in the region freedom of religion and con-
the summit. are few, the Pope observed, science” in the region, he said,
The meetings brought many “they are the bearers of the Good proposing this as a topic of
challenges, hopes and concerns News of the love of God for Christian-Muslim dialogue.
to light while maintaining a man ... and it is the only Word Turning to Christians in the
focus on the synod’s theme: which is able to break that vi- Middle East, headed: “may the
“Communion and Witness: now cious circle of vengeance, hate experience of these days assure
those who believed were of one and violence.” He prayed that you that you are never alone,
heart and soul.” initiatives for peace might arise that you are always accompa-

www.commondatastorage.googleapis.com
Among the matters receiv- from all levels of society. nied by the Holy See and the
ing the most attention during “Conflicts, wars, violence and whole Church, which, having
the sessions were communion terrorism have gone on for too been born in Jerusalem, spread
among the variety of Eastern long in the Middle East,” he em- through the Middle East and
Catholic traditions; problematic phasized. “Peace, which is a gift then the rest of the world.”
emigration from the Middle East; of God, is also the result of the He also announced during the
and inter-religious relations and efforts of men of goodwill, of the homily that the next assembly of
dialogue. The topics of violence, national and international insti- bishops would take place in 2012
peace, and religious freedom tutions, in particular of the states to examine “new evangeliza-
were also prominent. most involved in the search for a tion.” (CNA/EWTN News)

Letter to seminarians Fr. Lombardi: new saints

deepens Pope’s ooo
teaching on celibacy are ‘spiritual friends’ and
VATICAN City, Oct. 22, 2010—Earlier
this week, Pope Benedict XVI for the
first time publicly engaged the issue of
balance of heart and mind, reason and
feeling, body and soul, and to be hu-
manly integrated.”
guides to religious virtue
the relationship between the Church’s “This,” he said, “also involves the VATICAN City, Oct. 23, 2010—The exemplary way.” Thus, they be-
celibacy requirements and the clergy integration of sexuality into the whole saints are “fascinating guides” to faith, come “spiritual friends for whoever
sexual abuse scandals. personality. Sexuality is a gift of the hope and love who show that ordi- encounters them and fascinating
In an unusually personal letter to the Creator yet it is also a task which nary people bring God’s comfort and guides to discovering the love of
world’s seminarians Oct. 18, the Pope relates to a person’s growth towards light to the world, commented Vatican God, faith and hope,” he said.
told them that it is understandable if human maturity.” spokesman Fr. Federico Lombardi. “Canonizations are recognition that
the scandals have caused them to ques- When a man’s sexuality is not prop- On Oct. 17, Pope Benedict XVI can- the Spirit of God breathes through or-
tion their decision to become priests or erly integrated, it becomes “banal and onized the Church’s six newest saints dinary people, like Mary and Br. An-
to choose to live a celibate life. destructive,” he said. in St. Peter Square. Fr. Lombardi dre, and [they] produce fruits of virtue
“Recently we have seen with great Throughout his pontificate, Pope commented on this event during his that are sources of comfort and light
dismay that some priests disfigured Benedict has repeatedly spoken of “Octava Dies” (Eighth Day) weekly for many others,” he continued.
their ministry by sexually abusing celibacy as a “gift.” television editorial this week. The declaration sainthood is a
children and young people,” the Pope In celebrating the close of the Year This year’s canonizations were “true celebration,” he said, explain-
said. for Priests on June 10, he said priests particularly special, he explained, ing that through this solemn rec-
He added: “As a result of all this, were united with the “unique priest,” because of the origins of two of the ognition saints spread their faith,
many people, perhaps even some of Jesus Christ, mysteriously drawn saints in the group, Sts. Mary MacK- hope and love, even if they are not
you, might ask whether it is good to into the reality of Christ’s resurrec- illop and Andre Bessette. They hail all universally popular.
become a priest; whether the choice tion, to a new life “already beyond from two nations with few canon- “This,” noted Fr. Lombardi, “is
www.seletlumieretv.org

of celibacy makes any sense as a truly marriage.” ized saints, Australia and Canada. the most beautiful aspect of the
human way of life.” In this relationship with Christ, he Canadian and Australian pil- Church.”
The Pope’s frank engagement of the said, “celibacy is anticipation,” taking grims flew their flags throughout In service to mankind, he said,
question comes after a year of contro- the priest beyond this world and time the square before and after the cer- the Church helps people from all
Fr. Federico Lombardi
versies in Europe in which many have to the “world of the resurrection.” In emony. They were joined in the cel- places to “walk to meet God along
publicly questioned whether there opening the doors to this “future of ebration by many others from Spain, the paths of holiness.” Turning to
might be a link between the celibacy God,” he said, celibacy is lived as a Italy and Poland, the homelands of recognizing something that is “already all people, he concluded, “we need
rule and the scandal. witness to faith, a testimony of true the four other new saints. understood” among the people. This to learn to see the Church in this
Two bishops in Belgium in Sep- belief that God exists and is found in In a canonization, said Fr. Lom- understanding, he explained, is that perspective and continuously renew
tember raised the issue of admitting one’s life. bardi, the Church solemnly pro- “certain people,” the saints, “embody her, beginning with ourselves.”
married men to the priesthood in the For this reason it causes such “scan- poses the Christian life of a person, the Gospel in an extraordinary and (CNA/EWTN News)
wake of the scandal that has rocked the dal” in the secular world, he said.

Caritas to PNoy: ‘Provide aid to the poor with dignity’

Church there. Earlier this year, Car- Celibacy is a “yes” that implies a type
dinal Christoph Schöborn of Vienna of marriage, he explained. It is a proof
suggested the Church needs an “un- of loyalty and trust in God. Celibacy,
flinching examination” of the reasons he said, “confirms the ‘yes’ of marriage
for the crisis, including a discussion with its ‘yes’ to the future world” and
of “the issue of priestly celibacy and “is a great sign of faith, of the presence
the issue of personality development.” of God.” MANILA, Oct. 18, 2010—Caritas Manila men signed a manifest against the ap- development.”
The cardinal’s words were widely The Pope also spoke of the impor- expressed objection to the new program proval of P21 billion for the Conditional “It is the church’s teachings that dig-
misreported, forcing him to clarify tance of celibacy during a congress for of the Aquino administration that will Cash Transfer (CCT) program through nity and respect for the human person
that he in no way was questioning the priests organized by the Vatican’s Con- give monetary assistance to poor fami- the Department of Social Welfare and is needed… and they must labour with
celibacy rule. gregation for Clergy on March 12. lies in the country. Development. their hands before they eat,” he said.
The Church has consistently main- Celibacy he said, is “an authentic Fr. Anton Pascual, Caritas Manila’s The program seeks to help about 2.3 “The human person is the measure of
tained that there is no evidence of any prophecy of the Kingdom, a sign of executive director, claimed that the million poor Filipino families, espe- the dignity of work. Work confirms the
relationship between celibacy and consecration with undivided heart to program is not a long-term solution cially those with children and pregnant profound identity of men and women cre-
deviant sexual behavior. the Lord and to ‘the affairs of the Lord’, and could only spur dependency to the women, with an allowance of up to ated in the image and likeness of God.”
And in his new letter, the Pope the expression of their gift of self to government. 1,400 pesos a month per family. Pascual called on the government to
again emphasizes that the issue is not God and to others.” “We are worried that this might breed “Let us provide assistance to the poor implement “work for pay program”
the commitment to celibacy but the Concluding the thought in his new laziness and dependency from the gov- with dignity,” said Pascual, adding that instead so that the beneficiaries of the
maturity and personal development letter to seminarians, the Pope thanked ernment,” said Pascual. the controversial dole-out program program could learn to be responsible
of the priest. God for priests that bear witness to He said that teaching the poor to the lacks “moral dignity”. citizens.
“It is important for the priest, who the “authentic, pure and mature hu- dependent was not part of the key solu- While it has a good social dimen- He said poor people could have
is called to accompany others through manity” that can be attained in the tion to the soaring cost of basic necessi- sion, he said, CCT must also carry an dignity if they will work hard on
the journey of life up to the threshold priesthood—”specifically in the life of ties, especially food. “economic dimension” so that the ap- what they have to feed their families.
of death,” he wrote, “to have the right celibacy.” (CNA/EWTN News) Last Thursday, at least 52 congress- proach would be for a “total human (CBCPNews)

Poll bets should run for service and not money, bishop says
MANILA, Oct. 24, 2010—Candidates cially those requiring a mandate from trusted to us as opportunities to help “Would you not choose a leader with and to himself,” he said.
running for public office should be the people, involves a responsibility and them, uplift them, promote their rights, these positive traits? Would you not let Although the barangay and SK elec-
motivated by their desire to serve the duty to serve them,” he said. provide for their needs and improve yourself be under his care, under this tions may be at the bottom of the “totem
people and not to enrich themselves, a Santos said that one’s position in their lives,” the prelate added. kind of shepherd?” he asked. pole of elections for public office”, the
young bishop said. society or community should not lead Santos urged voters to vote wisely on He advised the public not to be bishop said, it is important to “begin
Balanga Bishop Ruperto Santos, in his a person to feel superior on others, but Oct. 25 and choose candidates who are swayed by promises of politicians but with the smallest things”.
pastoral reflections on Oct. 25 Barangay rather use one’s status in life to help truly motivated to serve. rather be inspired by their “good deeds, “The Gospel said that he who could
and SK elections, said “public officials uplift other people’s lives. The bishop said they should serve like credible and honest living.” be trusted in small things can be
are called upon to serve especially those And this is true to anyone holding a that of the Good Shepherd as mentioned “Let us be attracted by selfless service trusted in big things. The proper and
who are less privileged, less fortunate, responsible position “whether religious in the Gospel of Saint John, who “leads rather than giveaways. Let us be moti- moral exercise of our suffrage applies
and least taken care of.” or civic authority”, he said. and guides his flock to the right and vated by what he can do for God and to all elective posts,” he said. (Pinky
“Any position in government, espe- “These people are given and en- moral path.” for His people rather than to his own Barrientos/CBCPNews)
 A4 Opinion CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 22
October 25 - November 7, 2010

Illustration by Bladimer Usi

EDITORIAL

‘Irresponsible parenthood’

IN Facebook, a cursory comment was lodged at Good Morning CBCP

saying in “jejemon,” “wla na…konti na lng ki2tain nla kng konti na lng
bi2nyagan.” (No more… they will earn little if those to be baptized are
getting fewer). Obviously, the one who commented was referring, if
sarcastically, to the efforts of the Catholic Church to oppose the legislation
of the Reproductive Health Bill because, once legislated, it will mean
lesser population and, therefore, lesser revenues at baptisms.
Clearly, the comment—and there are thousands of them every day in
social networks—is meant to spite the church in its honest-to-goodness
crusade to save the country from a legislation that will do more harm
than good and from a global campaign of population reduction even
if the means clashing head-on with morals, religious beliefs and the
Philippine Constitution.
Although it is not true that the Church is blocking the Bill because of a
long shot reference to reduction of whatever revenues, it is true that the
RH Bill is really meant for population deceleration—at all cost. This is
the primary and the sole target. All the other provisions are mere riders
meant to put icing to the cake that is increasingly becoming palatable
to more and more people, sadly, even among other religious circles.
The trite equation that the ballooning population is the cause of poverty has
long been debunked, because really the glaring cause of poverty, at least in
this country, is population and resource mismanagement as the campaign
slogan “Kung walang corrupt, walang mahirap,” tentatively showed.And this,
without even mentioning a bevy of countries in Africa, for instance, with less
population but still very poor or, on the other hand, in some Asian countries
with burgeoning populace but boasting of economic growth. Surprisingly
enough, people are still buying this argument—even the president of this
country, although understandably.
The quality of life argument is a derivative from the overpopulation-
equals-poverty theory. The RH Bill supporters now finds solace in
the responsible parenthood spin as if the Church, in objecting to the
RH Bill, is promoting the contrary, that is, “irresponsible parenthood”.
Truth to tell, and this may be disputed, it was the Catholic Church
that first used and campaigned for responsible parenthood down to
the parishes several decades back. At the end of the day, when all the
clouds of confusion and deception have settled, the current version of
the RH Bill, once approved, is going to be the most irresponsible kind Sr. Mary Pilar Verzosa, RGS
of parenthood this country will ever see.
There seem to be no greater irresponsibility than to cause the wholesale
Love the human fetus
destruction of values of kids from Grade V and above, and those of
their parents. Love Life
DO you know that the Latin pro-life education programs, the mother as well. Having child. However, he said, he
word “fetus” means “my little we have saved thousands of counseled so many women suspects that the fetus left on
one”? People seldom hear or babies from abortion. Before who had abortion, I know the pews or in a corner of the
Place of social doctrine in mission to evangelize read the word fetus except in I end the seminar, I always that the decision is an act of Church have been aborted and
Biology class and in medical invite the audience to pray desperation. Fear, confusion, the woman is too ashamed
courses. But those of us in the with me the Spiritual Adop- loneliness at being abandoned to come forward. I want to
FROM the truth of Jesus, urgent questions arise. Do we ever encounter pro-life movement are very fa- tion Prayer for the Unborn as by the father of the baby and believe that the woman, no
Jesus who is the very reason for our being Christian? How do we miliar with the different stages there are many Baby Joshuas matter what reason she had
encounter him? Does this personal encounter change our life, our an unsure future drive these
life in the family, our life in the community, our life in society? If we of development of human life out there in danger of abortion. girls and women to an act for aborting, still had some
believe in Jesus and love Him, have we become better persons, better in the womb—from fertiliza- We pray that the mother will that they will forever regret faith in her to entrust the
Christians, better citizens? Have we become better followers or disciples tion to birth, that is—from the be given the proper assistance in life. Many are led or even baby to God. What prayers
of Jesus? Has the fact of being Christians made our society become zygote to the embryo to the to bring her child to birth. forced to abort, then are left of remorse she was probably
more peaceful, more fraternal, more just? fetus to the newborn infant. And time and time again, we alone to suffer through the saying as she hurriedly left in
Such blunt disturbing questions bring to the fore the necessity of linking Some people might even cringe are told of how a woman who consequences—medical dam- order not to be noticed.
faith and life. They also indicate the intimate and inseparable oneness of at hearing the word fetus but almost aborted changed her age to their bodies, guilt, de- I cry for that baby and with
the Gospel of Love and the Gospel of Justice, i.e., the moral implications once they are told that it means mind and was glad she did pression, insomnia, illogical the mother. I always tell a
of the Lord’s Gospel in all dimensions of human life, individual, social, “my little one”, they warm up give birth to her baby. behavior sometimes leading to post-aborted woman how sor-
political, economic, cultural, and religious. to it. This is especially true I always feel sad when I hear alcohol, sex, drugs or smoking ry I am that I (or any of us) was
For this reason we set out before you these important realities of our faith: when we show the pro-life of a dead fetus left by the gar- addictions. not there when she needed us
films on fetal development, bage pile, inside a church or on Many years ago, when I during her pregnancy. Every
* “The Church’s social doctrine is an integral part of her evangelizing followed with showing the the sidewalk. Last month, we was just starting my pro-life human being created by God
ministry” (Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church [CSD], audience the plastic model of read of the story of the baby mission, I was informed that is not only the responsibility
2004, no. 66). Pope Paul VI had asked: “How in fact can one proclaim
the new commandment (of love) without promoting in justice and in a ten-week fetus that we have found in an airplane restroom. in Baclaran Church, bottles of the mother. We are all re-
peace the true, authentic advancement of man?” (Evangelii Nuntiandi named “Baby Joshua”. We And we also read a couple containing fetuses were left on sponsible in whatever capacity
[EN], 1975, no. 31). emphasize the fact that at ten of days ago of dead fetuses the pews. This led the priests we may have—that not one of
weeks, the fetus is fully formed in plastic bags left inside the to put up a Memorial for the these least of God’s brethren
* As “an essential part of the Christian message,” the social doctrine of human being and not just a Manila Cathedral and Quiapo Unborn Babies. The priest said might be abandoned.
the Church points out the direct consequences of that message in the
life of society and situates daily work and struggles for justice in the blob of blood and tissues. Church. There was public that if a woman had a miscar- Do you care to help us stop
context of bearing witness to Christ the Savior” (CSD, 67). Why call the model “Baby outrage and condemnation of riage, she would approach abortion? If you want a copy of
Joshua”? I first used that name whoever could be so heartless him holding a nicely wrapped the Spiritual Adoption Prayer
* “On the one hand, religion must not be restricted ‘to the purely private to link it with the name “Jesus”, as to abandon her own child in bottle and ask him to bless for Unborn Babies, contact
sphere’, on the other, the Christian message must not be relegated to meaning savior, since Joshua is such dastardly manner. our Pro-life office at 733-7027,
a purely other-worldly salvation incapable of shedding light on our her baby. In tears she would
earthly existence” (CSD 71, citing Pope John Paul II, Centesimus the Jewish version of Jesus, My sadness was not only relate how sorry she was that 0919-233-7783 or life@prolife.
Annus [CA], no. 5). Jesu or Hesus. Because of our for the death of baby, but for she lost this long-awaited org.ph
* Undoubtedly, to be true shepherds, we as Bishops have to teach the
integral Gospel, the gospel of the Lord with all its social implications.
Fr. Carmelo O. Diola, SSL
Companions on a
This is a non-negotiable task for the shepherd who is also the teacher of
his people. The social dimension of love is, after all, the clear implication
of the Lord’s teaching on the love of neighbor as an active solidarity with
those who are in need. Without this solidarity one cannot be welcomed
into the Reign of God (see Mt. 25:34-46; Jas. 2 and 5). journey Spaces of Hope
* At the same time, we as bishops do have to remind ourselves again and
again that in the Church there is a variety of roles. While “the primary
responsibility for the pastoral commitment to evangelize social realities “IS your barber still alive?” my friend ***** in the morning. I tried it and, together with
falls to the Bishop,” (CSD, 539), he is assisted by all members of the ribbed me after noticing my white-side Sam immediately strikes people as a renewed running, the gout was gone.
Church in a variety of ways. wall and crew cut usually reserved for man who is fit as a fiddle. The retired A physical-fitness rhythm had come
* Granting all the above and given the autonomy of the temporal sphere, it military trainees. “What happened?” he officer runs regularly to keep fit. He has back—this time to make the Holy Spirit more
remains a perennial teaching of the Church that she cannot take on a political continued. been at this since he was a plebe at the comfortable in the temple of one’s body.
task as her immediate responsibility. It is not her responsibility to provide I told him about the run I had that PMA in 1974.
any political blueprint for the just ordering of society (cf. DCE 28; PCP-II, morning with Kuya Sam, a retired PNP Running, he says, is a very good way *****
330-53). She has her own role to play in promoting justice, e.g., to influence general, my mentor and companion in to exercise since it is cheap, simple, and it Pastoral accompaniment is what our
life, public and private, with the integral Gospel, to form the social conscience
of her members, to provide a moral light that illumines, a spiritual force that the advocacy of running. He had gone to works! He points out that running requires friendship with Sam is all about. In De-
critiques social behavior and structures, denounces or purifies and reinforces his barber after the run and I had tagged no other equipment – a pair of running cember 2010, a workshop involving Dilaab
in the light of the Word of God (see PCP-II, 248). along. Just before my haircut, I gave the shoes will do. That running “works” is partners and volunteers came out with
barber the instruction to just follow the to be understood in different dimensions: the following definition of pastoral ac-
“template” of the pattern of my hair. Then physically, yes! But it also works as an companiment:
Shepherding and Prophesying in Hope: I went to sleep. advocacy. PASTORAL ACCOMPANIMENT IS
When I woke up, I nearly did not rec- Kuya Sam points out that runners need A REFUGE, SANCTUARY, OR SPACE
A CBCP Pastoral Letter on Social Concerns, 2006 ognize the guy I saw in the mirror. Then to be home early so they can sleep early WHERE PEOPLE COME ALONGSIDE IN
it dawned on me that my barber thought I and be awake early in the morning, the A JOURNEY TOGETHER TOWARDS IN-
wanted him to follow the pattern of Sam’s preferred time for running. This translates TEGRITY FOR THE COMMON GOOD.
haircut. My initial dismay very quickly into more time and, hopefully, more qual- IT IS A TRUST RELATIONSHIP GROW-
turned into a sigh of joy: after all, true ity time with one’s family. ING IN A JOURNEY OF FAITH, HOPE,
www.cbcpmonitor.com
cbcpmonitor@cbcpworld.net
friendships make people alike. In addition, the retired general found AND LOVE, A CALL TO ALL THE FAITH-
out, through an informal survey he con- FUL, INVOLVING DISCIPLINE AND
***** ducted all over the country, that those who SPECIAL SKILLS.
I first met Kuya Sam—then a Senior run do not take illegal drugs. The two do This definition is based on lived experi-
Superintendent, i.e. a full colonel, in the not go together. ences that were reflected upon by a group
Philippine National Police—in early 2004 Runners, therefore, do not engage in of Dilaab volunteers and partners that met
when we were preparing for a national drugs and have more family time. Not in December 2008 and January 2009. The
consultation on illegal drugs and the use bad. definition is simple enough but the impli-
of drug money to corrupt our pillars of cations are deep.
Pedro C. Quitorio Kris Bayos justice. ***** Pastoral accompaniment works. The
Features Editor Superintendent Tucay had been sent by But it was not these findings that made journey towards integrity for the common
Editor-in-Chief
the anti-drug unit of the PNP to represent me to take up running. Kuya Sam had actu- good can be undertaken by two individu-
Pinky Barrientos, FSP Gloria Fernando them in the event. Sam struck me as a very ally been encouraging me for some time to als. It is also possible for the companion-
diligent and intelligent officer, capable of consider a fitness regimen. I actually had a ship to spill over into the institutions that
PUBLICATION LAYOUT BY KRIS BAYOS

Associate Editor Marketing Supervisor

generous and courageous action. He had fitness template as a college student which the companions represent. Dilaab’s mode
Melo M. Acuña Ernani M. Ramos no need to prove himself anymore as his I abandoned when I became “spiritual” of engagement with individuals and
Managing Editor Circulation Manager medals show. after a conversion experience after college. groups is through pastoral accompaniment
Ever since that gathering, many things Back then, it was to prove one’s virility that since we are all in this together as part of
Roy Q. Lagarde Marcelita Dominguez have happened between Sam and me. one took up physical exercise. the problem and part of the solution. We
News Editor Comptroller
I consider our friendship as a basis of In late 2008 and early 2009, there were are all in need of God’s mercy.
how “pastoral accompaniment” is de- times when I could walk only with the help Through pastoral accompaniment we
fined. Pastoral companions allow their of a cane. That I had the disease of nobility hope to continue our engagement with the
The CBCP Monitor is published fortnightly by the CBCP Communica- horizons to merge for mutual spiritual did not lessen the pain: “They can have the PNP as well as with politicians. We need to
tions Development Foundation, Inc., with editorial and business offices enrichment. gout; let me remain a commoner,” I said move fast and decisively as opportunities
at 470 Gen. Luna St., Intramuros, Manila. P.O. Box 3601, 1076 MCPO. I am a better priest for this exchanging of to myself. present themselves. The October 2010 ba-
Editorial: (063) 404-2182. Business: (063)404-1612.; ISSN 1908-2940 places. I hope Sam became a better police- Then someone suggested water therapy: rangay election is one such opportunity.
man because of me. five glasses of lukewarm water first thing Companions, anyone?
 CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 22
October 25 - November 7, 2010
Opinion A5
Oscar V. Cruz, DD
The Aquino anti- Commentary
Views and Points contraceptive Alessandra Nucci
smorgasbord
IT is becoming more and more in the course of time. There ap- Ano, binu-buenas kayo?” of its big population! Never
noticeable that the present ad-
ministration seems to be lost
pears to be something strange
between the pronouncements
Now, specifically in conjunc-
tion with the Philippine popula-
mind if certain contraceptives
are also abortifacient. Never The Teflon Pontiff
in its self-proclaimed patrician and the actual engagements of tion, before someone went to the mind if chemical-based means
vision and self-assumed noble the present administration—all U.S.A. recently, his invocation was that counter conception, brings EVER since he was elected in April 2005, the media have been
mission. Briefly, it says one thing of which, sincerely and hope- clearly and repeatedly “Respon- about defective children when expecting Pope Benedict XVI to be tripped up and rejected by
without thinking what it really fully, would prove “hogwash” sible Parenthood”. Upon return the women who took them, the masses that flocked to John Paul II, his outgoing, charis-
means and what it actually im- in street, straight and strong to the country, the battle cry can thereafter eventually decided to matic predecessor. But it hasn’t happened.
plies. It proclaims something, language. be said to be along these lines: have children. Indeed, possibly as a legacy of John Paul’s outreach to the
not realistically aware of its in- “Come one and all. Choose your Do not ask where the multi- entire world, in the first few years of his papacy Benedict
nate nature and consequences. Then: “Ang matuwid na contraceptives. Pills, injectables, billion direct and indirect taxes drew even larger crowds than Karol Woytjla did. The crowds
Clearly, this is in no way daan.” rubbers of various sizes, colors continuously paid by the mil- have subsided a bit, but again and again, Pope Benedict has
meant neither to downgrade the Now: “Nasaan kaya yan?” and flavors. Take them, have them lions of Filipinos from birth advanced, gliding unharmed through hoops of fire, around
person concerned nor to demean free—courtesy of public funds.” to death go! Do not ask why traps and past ambushes.
the capacity of his good chosen Then: “Kung walang corrupt, Never mind if it is population the PNP, the NBI, the ISAP— From the Convention of the Church in Italy, held at Verona
friends and preferred close as- walang mahirap!” like the OFWs who keep the and what have you—cannot in 2006, which the media had ominously suggested might
sociates. It simply means that Now: “Dami ninyo, kaya ma- country economically afloat! maintain social peace and right burst the bubble of existing divisions within the Church, to the
there seems to be something hirap kayo!” Never mind if Singapore is much order. Right now, it seems this controversy over the speech at Regensburg, which ended up in
basically queer and illusory worried about its dwindling administration is heaping all the meetings and inter-religious dialogue of the highest level, Josef
between the words said and Then: “Kayo ang boss ko.” population! Never mind if China blame on the poor population Ratzinger has consistently turned troubles into triumphs.
the deeds that thereafter follow Now: “Ako ang boss ninyo! is an economic giant because for its lot. His trips to North America, Australia, France and most re-
cently the United Kingdom, were all preceded by months of
serious challenges and even provocation. Atheist campaigners

RH issue shows Fr. Roy Cimagala even called for his arrest upon his arrival in Britain. But every
dispute, every trip, has ended with the acclaim of the people,

confusion among
of the authorities and—most miraculously—of the media.
Even the priestly sex scandal turned into a boomerang,

Catholics Candidly Speaking when it was revealed that it had been none other than Cardinal
Ratzinger who had insisted on rigorously cleaning house once
the abuses had come to light, under his watch at the Congrega-
LIKE a chemical compound called reagent, the stuck in the past. But, ok, let´s always give about contraception. tion for the Doctrine of the Faith. Ironically, the fact that it had
RH question exposes the range and scope of them the benefit of the doubt. To them, contraception is not intrinsically been he who had prevailed over more lenient policies, might
the confusion and disaffection among many They usually begin their arguments by evil, an echo of the liberals´ dissent on Hu- never have come to light had not part of the press insisted on
Catholic faithful toward their Church, her introducing themselves as moderates, not manae Vitae. Pope John Paul II reiterated the pinning the blame on him.
doctrine and discipline. Let´s hope it will also hardliners, who try to hew a saner, more ra- intrinsic evil of contraception in his Evan- One entertaining example of the uncanny reversals of booby
give us an idea of the solution to be applied. tional and compassionate position. With very gelium Vitae. How clever they are in glib traps was seen in March 2009 on Channel Three of RAI, the
There was an explosion of views, many of subtle maneuverings, they try to make them- talk, both cutting corners and straying into Italian state-run television. In her regular Sunday afternoon
them shooting from the hip, but a few also selves the exclusive owners of St. Augustine´s irrelevant nooks to make their point! show “In Half An Hour” (a bit like BBC World’s Hardtalk),
came up, from so-called theologians, with maxim: “In essentials, unity; in non-essentials, They make a strong appeal for the voice anchorwoman Lucia Annunziata, formerly President of RAI it-
serious arguments that actually contained liberty; and in all things, charity.” of personal conscience as the final arbiter, self, interviewed US Jesuit Fr. Thomas J. Reese. She introduced
nothing more than sophistries. They point out to the public that their without much concern for its formation. him as a priest who had resigned as Editor-in-chief of America
The reckless comments are usually found presentation is not merely anecdotal in shrill Their favorite line is that in the end it´s just Magazine when Cardinal Ratzinger was elected pope.
in the media, with everyone, from editors tones, but scientific in calm, sober tones, an a question between the individual and God Annunziata, who had recently interviewed rebel theologian
and reporters to readers, giving their 2 cents obvious dig at those who convey the official that matters. All the intervening authorities, Hans Kung, introduced her guest as “hugely important”, “high
worth. The more serious and dangerous teaching of the Church by ornamenting it the Church Magisterium in particular, are calibre” and “immensely prestigious”. She clearly expected Fr.
ones are found in journals, in seminars and with stories. The implication is that they are easily set aside. Reese to tip the bucket on the Pope.
centers of higher learning. not fanatics, like those who oppose RH. They usually conclude their arguments by But her plan backfired. Not only did Fr. Reese not attack
Among the amusing arguments are the But they miss out many things as they saying that we should not make laws that the Pope, but he matter-of-factly validated every one of his
accusations that the Church wants to run focus only on their bias of making the RH discriminate against the others who may doctrinal positions. His criticisms were limited to reflecting
the whole country, wants to interfere in gov- acceptable. They paint the RH Bill, for ex- take the opposite view of what the Church that the Holy Father should surround himself with people
ernment affairs, wants to destroy society by ample, as a mixed bag, an assortment of leaders teach. Yes, even in matters of life who are more expert with the media.
encouraging civil disobedience, etc. good and bad elements that should not just and morality, they preach that we ought to Flustered, Annunziata broached one issue after another in
We don´t have to spend much time refut- be dismissed. In fact, it should be approved, be open, in a blatant display of what is now an increasingly pleading tone: “Surely on this matter you must
ing these arguments. They have a short shelf glossing over the essential issues while known as the tyranny of relativism. differ with the Pope?” and “You must be willing to at least
life, since they have no roots, or are like little sweetening its perceived bad elements. There´s no doubt that the Church authori- admit that not everyone approves of the Pope these days?”
rocks thrown at the Church, causing some Not only that, they now appear to be its ties have to wage at least a comprehensive Reese smilingly parried every lunge.
disturbance, but largely left where they fall most serious attorneys, defending it from any information campaign about the RH issue, Finally she played her trump card: “What about the little
with hardly anyone taking notice. Wild and question or protest raised against it, openly and to sustain an ongoing formation first girl in Brazil who was raped by her stepfather? Do you sup-
gratuitous, they pop in and out anytime and putting themselves at the other side of the among the clergy and then the rest of the port even the decision to excommunicate the family who took
just die under the sun or simply rot. Bishops´ position. That´s loyalty for them. faithful. her to an abortion clinic?” But Reese laughed pleasantly and
The more serious threats have to be taken They seem to be unaware of the global Church leaders need to summon the help pointed out: “I’m not an enemy of the Pope. I think he’s right
with more caution. They usually come from context in which this RH issue was born and of all Church organs and facilities to pursue on all of the issues you mentioned.” And then the mortal blow:
the ranks of the clergy, a truly disturbing developed—the ugly backroom geopolitics this plan. They have to weed out some bad “I like the Pope!”
phenomenon. With PhD´s and STD´s, they and commercial horsetrading done in its elements in strategic locations in the Church Thus a potentially disastrous interview turned into unex-
like to present themselves as the true light in name. While they are clearly against abor- structures, like the seminaries, parishes and pected publicity for the Pope, thanks to the ability of an honest
a world plunged in darkness or in a Church tion, at least, as of now, they are much at sea some so-called Catholic schools. priest, when the time came, to set aside past differences and
stand shoulder to shoulder with him—on prime time TV.
The attacks won’t stop, of course. But in the five and a half
years of Benedict’s Papacy, they have all led to an increase in
Melo M. Acuña the prestige of the Catholic Church.
The country’s ailing In a final irony, the man derided as “God’s rottweiler”, a
stern and distant intellectual, connects with the people, draw-
Issues and Concern tourism ing crowds from every age, background, and walk of life. Take
the traditional summer appearances in Castel Gandolfo. Quite
often Pope Benedict returns to Rome for the Wednesday audi-
ences, because the square could not hold all of the people who
THE Philippines pins its hopes after the hostage-taking incident. spick and span and the roads for more foreign tourists. Not in
sought to be there.
on tourism as a dollar-earner. Of Of course, close friends warned of were always safe 24/7. I never the Philippines.
Far from marking its demise, under Josef Ratzinger’s watch
course this was before the fateful possible consequences from being missed my early morning jogs After my ten-day trip, I re-
the Catholic Church has been recovering its reputation and,
August 23 hostage-taking inci- ostracized or be asked repeat- in Beijing, Chengdu and other turned to NAIA Terminal I only
along with it, the ability to spread its message. Whoever would
dent where eight foreign nation- edly of what really happened. Sichuan cities. to see long queues of Filipinos
have thought that this quintessential intellectual, 83 going on
als and the hostage-taker died. Our counterparts from CRI and Aside from Sichuan’s come-on, and foreigners weary from the
84, would rewrite the public relations textbooks?
What added to the government’s State Administration for Radio, the famed pandas and the numer- long air travel waiting to clear
woes was the fact the whole Film and Television were prudent ous museums and places of inter- their passports at the immigration
(Alessandra Nucci is an Italian writer and freelance journalist.
world had a glimpse of how we enough and talked about possible est, the forests remained forests section because of fewer immigra-
This commentary is published here under special arrangements with
responded to the crisis. closer working relations and news with no signs of illegal logging. tion personnel. The Immigration
Mercatornet)
The botched rescue operation exchange instead. They didn’t ask Local officials were hospitable Bureau’s departure and arrival
was seen through BBC, CNN and because the internet provided them and the food they served were cards should have tourist spots
Al Jazeera, thanks to the latest with everything they needed. sumptuous and unique. instead of Vicky Belo’s profile.
technology. Though Tourism Sec- Having been to China for the At their airports, immigration (Whoever thought of the idea?).
retary Alberto Lim remains opti- fourth time since 2001, I was nev- and security personnel knew their The air conditioning units need
mistic the international audience er surprised to see foreign tourists respective responsibilities. They replacements. We can surely get
would forget the incident in due on board various flights in and were attentive to locals and for- tourists to see the Philippines if
time, the country has to double its out of Beijing. The two-and-a- eigners alike. Their terminals are and when foreigners would say a
efforts in enticing foreign tourists half hour flight to Chengdu was clean and their duty-free shops’ few good words about their pleas-
to see the Philippines. a good eye-opener because I saw goods are reasonably priced. Taxis ant trip to Manila and suburbs
On invitation of China Radio In- how serious the Chinese were in have receipts and a recorded voice where the roads are clean and the
ternational and the Sichuan Tour- building infrastructures such as would advice tourists not to pay hotels are reasonable yet present-
ism Council, this corner had the airports and terminals, well-built what’s been recorded in the taxi able and where anybody will feel
chance to visit Beijing, Chengdu, roads and access to internet and meters and the receipt. In China, safe and free from muggers and
Leshan and Emei Shan, just a week mobile phones. Their hotels were cities compete against each other street urchins.

Brian Caulfield

Man Up! Half a World Away

I HAD promised never to use that phrase, but suppressed. Masculinity is a precious jewel of seek to suppress that masculine urge to rise
everyone seems to be saying it these days. Even humanity, something that the world, frankly, and conquer, to build and destroy.
Newsweek featured “Man Up!” on its cover would be much poorer without. I have two boys, ages 10 and 5. They are both
(Sept. 27), while concluding that men will have It can definitely have its excesses—brash forces of nature. My mission as a father is to
to “rethink masculinity” in order to survive in displays that come about often when men are lead them into the truth about themselves and
the new economy that stresses Facebook-type unsure of their masculinity or feel it is under the world—starting with God and continuing
sharing and soft skills over brawn. attack. Yet when expressed as male virtue— on to mankind and all creation. They have a
And there’s some truth to this. The incessant strength, character, protector, provider, purpose and a place. My greatest mission—
recession has hit men the hardest – the large righteous warrior—masculinity has been the and maybe the most difficult in our somewhat
majority of job loss has been among males great energy of history. Courage, self-sacrifice, feminized culture—is to teach them authentic
who rely on physical strength to earn their justice and truth are all expressions of mascu- love. Love is not merely an emotion; love is
wage. America just doesn’t build all that much line virtue, as are invention, innovation and an act of the will. My two boys certainly have
anymore, apparently. Even the housing boom idealism. very strong wills, so I know that they have
- which had given contractors much of their If you think you can “rethink masculinity” in the capacity for great love—enough to set the
work over the past 15 years – has gone bust. some laboratory or group therapy, just look at world aflame and change the course of history
But “rethink masculinity”? I suspect that the kiddie park, where the boys exhibit a lone for the better.
men who try to do this will be disappointed warrior ethic and the girls tend to associate to Rather than rethink or (worse) redefine
– or encouraged, perhaps—that masculinity communicate. The key is to harness and guide masculinity, we fathers would do well to
is pretty good the way it is. Oh yes, we can the wonderful masculine energy of boys so that refine masculinity as fire refines gold to bring
rethink how our masculinity is to be ex- they grow into men of strength and virtue— greater value and beauty. The gold of my sons
pressed, but we should never seek to have it men of strong and enduring virtue. But never is their souls.
 Local News
CBCP Monitor
A6 Vol. 14 No. 22
October 25 - November 7, 2010

Voters write on their ballots during the elec-

tions for village and youth council officials in
Barangay Agos in Bato town, Camarines Sur,
Oct. 25, 2010.

© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media

Basilan’s Barangay and SK polls relatively peaceful
CBCP official to Noy:
IN a province marked by intense politi- Up for grabs were the posts of Baran- election paraphernalia caused the de-
cal rivalry a relatively peaceful elections gay Chairman and seven councilmen layed opening of polling centers.
is indeed something to thank for. for the SB and another set of chairman “While the voter turnout was good,

‘Review’ clemency process

Basilan Bishop Martin S. Jumoad of and seven councilmen for SK. the senior citizens found it hard to read
the Prelature of Isabela said he was very However, in Payao, Zamboanga the candidates’ names due to the small
thankful to God because as of midday Sibugay, massive vote-buying activities printed list of candidates,” the 53-year
on Oct. 25, he has not received any have been reported at the cost of P1,000 old prelate said.
report about untoward incidents in his per qualified voter. Threats and intimi- In Batanes, Bishop Camilo Gregorio said PRESIDENT Benigno Aquino III’s
ecclesial province. dation forced a number of families from the polls turned out to be much better than power given under the Constitution in
“It’s very peaceful as of midday to- Barangay San Roque, Payao to flee their the May 10, 2010 national elections. granting executive clemency cannot be
day,” the prelate added. homes for fear of their lives. The prelate said election parapher- questioned.
The elections were not as emotional as Earlier, a barangay chairman ha- nalia were delivered on time. But in But given the speed with which the
the previous polls since close relatives vied rassed voters with a hand grenade. Itbayat, residents had to wait for the rebel soldiers were given amnesty, the
for contested positions, Jumoad said. Election Officer Judito Martinez and morning’s special plane to deliver the process should be reviewed for it to be
That could be the reasons for the Inspector Rolando Bartolome imme- election materials. more efficient, an official of the CBCP’s
peaceful elections and above-average diately proceeded to Barangay Balogo “Tahimik na tahimik ang eleksyon Commission on Prison Pastoral Care
turnout, he added. and pacified the opposing parties. No dito dahil nagtrabaho ang Parish Pas- said.
Qualified voters across the country arrests were reported. toral Council for Responsible Voting,” He said Aquino’s granting of amnesty
trooped to their respective polling “Still, we are on top of the situation,” Gregorio said. as a gesture for reconciliation to the
places on Oct. 25 to cast their votes for the election registrar insisted. He said favorable weather conditions mutineers should not be the basis in
the Sangguniang Barangay (SB) and In Malaybalay, Bishop Jose Cabantan also contributed for the good turnout of vot- releasing law offenders since it does not
Sangguniang Kabataan (SK). told CBCPNews the late delivery of ers. (Antonio Manaytay/Melo M. Acuna) constitute restorative justice.
“People should not just enter prison
Protect / A1 Apathy / A1 to be made to suffer… there has to be
some sort of restoration or rehabilita- Diamante
Some 26 workers died is 15 kilometers away. eclectic and superficial while viz: Shut up CBCP! Step tion,” said Diamante.
since 2006 from accidents at “Instead of adopting and their morals remain juve- aside Church! Shame on you In the case of the more than 300
the Hanjin facility were all implementing the Senate rec- nile,” said Cruz. Churchmen! Angry texts and soldiers who were involved in three but also during the past administra-
documented aside from in- ommendations, Hanjin ignored The former president of bitter calls suddenly invaded military uprisings against the Arroyo tions.”
juries and deaths, “that have them and made their grounds the Catholic Bishops Con- the tri-media,” said Cruz. administration, he said Aquino’s grant- He said it’s hard for Aquino to justify
been hidden by the company for stiffer penalties and suppres- ference of the Philippines “There were even light- ing of amnesty was apparently “not that he is not mocking the justice system
before the public.” sion of workers’ rights, includ- said this silence is nothing ning rallies made here and rehabilitation driven.” because of the more deserving “com-
The Senate Labor commit- ing the right to association. compared to the force shown there—all denouncing the “He should have basis. As I said, mon prisoners” that are still in jails for
tee conducted a series of in- Hanjin should be made by those who want to silence supposedly Church doctrine when there is mistake committed there several years already compared to the
vestigations on the chain of accountable for the injuries the church on the issue. thus perceived, shouting the should also be accountability,” Dia- rebel soldiers.
accidents which found the and deaths in the workplace, He also noted how “well- shameful sins of the clergy, mante said. “How would you explain that?
shipyard as prone to accidents they said. concerted efforts” were made and most of all, cursing the Asked whether he is convinced that Something’s really wrong here,” he
and detrimental to health. The groups urged the pub- as follow up to the act of CBCP for its alleged dicta- the decision was a political one, the said.
Recommendations were lic to write to President Aqui- tourist guide and reproduc- torial nature and pursuant CBCP official said, “definitely.” He called on the government to
made to Hanjin management no, Labor Secretary Rosalinda tive health (RH) bill advocate stance.” “I think it’s a political act. It’s a politi- institute the much needed reforms in
to adopt and implement D. Baldoz, Justice Secretary Carlos Celdran. To recall, Celdran dis- cal act of the president when [he] grants the country’s penal system as well as
tougher safety measures and Leila De Lima and Human “It is definitely amazing rupted an ecumenical service amnesty… because he wants to have the process of granting presidential
provide safety gadgets with Rights Chair Loretta Ann Ro- how such a notably well- at the Manila Cathedral last some sort of reconciliation with the pardon.
full-time doctors and health sales with the same message concerted effort could be Sept. 30 when he criticized soldiers,” he said. “There should be checks and balances
personnel aside from build- of concern for and on behalf staged—fast and effective— the Catholic hierarchy for “Whether we like it or not, the system in the system if we really want our par-
ing an emergency hospital of the Filipino workers at saying but one and only “meddling” in state’s affairs. of granting clemency is political by don policy to be untainted,” Diamante
because the nearest hospital Hanjin. (Melo M. Acuña) substantive and loud shout, (CBCPNews) nature... not only in this administration said. (CBCPNews)

Caritas / A1 Inquiry / A1 Tribute / A1

As of October 19, the Na- are currently staying in 6 evacu- the victims.” person, said the level of de- “Comelec should look at all and flash floods, he explained.
tional Disaster Risk Reduc- ation centers in Baguio City as of While Caritas also accepts re- lays suffered in several areas the angles and find the reason Asked if Fr. Satur’s death near-
tion and Management Council evening of Oct. 18. lief clothing, Bulawan said that nationwide, which caused the why the delay happened,” she ly two decades ago brought sig-
(NDRRMC) said “Juan” has left Initial reports reaching the toiletries and food aid are the postponement of the elections in said. nificant lessons to Malaybalay’s
10 people dead and nine others agency also revealed that around main priority as of the moment. at least 2, 2023 barangays, defi- “Is it just inefficiency? Ac- Catholic faithful, Cardinal Rosa-
injured. 150 families have been evacuated “If the people get hungry, nitely warrants an inquiry. countability of what depart- les said more and more people
The agency said four of the in Urdaneta. they’ll become ill,” she said. De Villa said she is disap- ment? Who were responsible if became aware of the destructive
fatalities were from Pangasinan, Sr. Perpetua Bulawan, coor- The Catholic Relief Services pointed with the conduct of the there were perceived sabotage effects of logging in the diocese.
three from Isabela, and one each dinator for Nassa’s relief and said they will be working closely manual elections which, accord- undermining the credibility of “Then Environment Secretary
from Kalinga, Baguio City, and rehabilitation program, said they with Caritas Filipinas, its local ing to her, the Comelec is used Comelec and the election itself?” (Fulgencio) Factoran, Jr. came to
Tuguegarao City. are still waiting reports from the partner, in assessing the dam- to do. “Never mind if it was she also said. Malaybalay and supported us in
Heavy rains and strong winds affected dioceses for them to see age, meeting immediate needs automated election system (be- De Villa added that some our campaign against illegal log-
have also plunged several prov- if and how the response needs to and planning for longer term cause) it is completely new. We glitches do really happen dur- ging,” the archbishop said.
inces into state of darkness be scaled up. assistance. would understand the glitches,” ing elections but the manner it Rosales was auxiliary bishop
and affected communication “Caritas Filipinas is now open Laura Sheahen, information she said. occurred on Oct. 25 was unac- of Manila when he was appoint-
services. for donations for all those af- officer for CRS, the official in- “But for something like this, ceptable. ed coadjutor bishop of Malayba-
The number of affected fami- fected by the typhoon. We are ternational humanitarian agency something they have been doing It’s second-rate, she said, and lay in June 9, 1982 at age 49. He
lies, meanwhile, has reached also on the process of appeal- of the US Catholic community, before, it is disturbing that this that even the packing, deliveries became bishop of Malaybalay at
1,689 or 7,951 persons in some ing to our Caritas International vowed to respond immediately should happen this way and and printing of ballots came so 52 years old and after eight years
57 villages from the provinces of partners,” Bulawan said during in providing help to the affected so close to election time,” said late in the day. was named Archbishop of Lipa
La Union, Pangasinan, Isabela, a forum on Oct. 19. families. De Villa. “There have always been in Batangas Province. He became
Aurora, Benguet, Kalinga and “We appeal to the kind-heart- “We are here to support them The PPCRV official was set to delays in election paraphernalia Archbishop of Manila in Septem-
Mountain Province. ed people, organizations and in terms of aid and also technical send a formal request for the poll but not like this… that it would ber 15, 2003 succeeding Jaime L.
According to the CBCP’s Cari- institutions to share whatever support whatever they need,” body to conduct a formal inquiry happen in the last minute,” De Cardinal Sin who retired at age
tas Filipinas, at least 200 persons donations they could give for Sheahen said. (Roy Lagarde) on the matter today. Villa said. (CBCPNews) 75. (Melo M. Acuña)

Mining / A1

They expressed alarm on the irre- being lifted from their sorry state of Precioso D. Cantillas, Calbayog Bishop at a disadvantage if mining operations ties and consequences relative to mining,
versible impact of extractive industries poverty were left to fend for themselves Isabelo C. Abarquez, and Naval Bishop continue, they furthered. the statement said, while pointing out
especially on the islands of Manicani and grapple with the realities that there Felomino G. Bactol. “What is more basic than any right, that the company left the island even
and Homonhon in Eastern Samar and are no more fertile grounds to grow their more basic than the right of mining before the expiration of its permit.
Batag in Northern Samar which remain food or natural river systems to catch the Borongan clergy firms, is the right of the people of “How then it would account for its fail-
imperiled by large and small-scale min- fishes for their day’s meal,” they said. Meanwhile, in a statement released on Manicani to live safely and peacefully ures and shortcomings?” the clergy asked.
ing operations. The prelates also noted the decade- October 13, the Borongan clergy led by in their own island without the presence In an effort to get the diocese soften
“As shepherds of our flock, it is our long struggle of the people in the islands Bishop Crispin Varquez rapped the obvi- of mining which endangers their very its stand against the loading of mineral
collective sentiments that the continuing of Manicani, Homonhon and Batag ous attempt of Nickel Asia Corp. (NAC) lives,” the statement said. stockpiles, HMC offered to donate one
drive for development of the Eastern who have to make do with what was to have the suspension of mining opera- The clergy also raised other issues million for the spiritual and pastoral
Visayas region anchored on mining left of the environment and livelihood tion in the island be lifted that would pave such as the company’s failure to com- endeavours of Borongan diocese, which
as well as other extractive economic destroyed by mining. for mineral extraction in Manicani. ply with the condition agreed with the the bishop flatly declined.
pursuits, only reinforce the irreversible Added to the damage done on the “[We] reiterate our collective stand to people of Manicani regarding the last But the company was able to buy
trend of permanently damaging na- environment is “the destruction of the oppose the resumption of mining in the loading of mineral stockpile in 2004- people’s support by handing out
ture’s endowments. As a consequence, islands’ social fabric, [with] families island of Manicani in solidarity with the 05, stating “That immediately after the P10,000 to every household, which led
the many lines of opportunities upon and communities [being] polarized,” people of the island who have suffered loading of the 150,000 MT nickel ore, all to the loading of mineral stockpiles, the
which our people can draw their life they said. long enough because of unmitigated open pit caused by the mining opera- statement said.
sustenance will definitely be threatened “What pervades has been the situa- greed of the very people who vowed tions shall be rehabilitated” (No. 8 of SB According to the clergy, the NAC has
immensely,” the statement said. tion of unpeace and disharmony. People to protect them; because of the wanton Resolution No. 32 series of 2004). been doing a maintenance program on
The bishops said previous experi- in the islands have been constantly disregard of their basic right to live They said compliance to the above the “mined out areas in Manicani, spe-
ences attest on the harmful effects of threatened by another prospect of sys- through the denial of their access to a condition is necessary at least before cifically the settling ponds, periphery
mining on environment and livelihoods tematic destruction of the island they basic element that sustains their life; any endorsement of the Guiuan Sang- canals and catchment basins” already
and these should have at least imparted call home,” they added. and because, we cannot remain deaf and guniang Barangay should be made. for several months now with some hired
some lessons on everyone. The bishops reiterated that the so- blind to the excesses of mining while The Guiuan Sangguniang Barangay locals doing the work.
cial costs and irreversible destruction our people suffer the consequences of is currently in the process of formulat- The mining company has even taken
Lamentable track record caused by mining far outweigh its actions not of their own making,” the ing a resolution to lift the suspension of all the members of the island’s four
Citing Bagacay in the Diocese of perceived economic benefits. statement partly read. mining operation in Manicani. barangay councils for a field trip to Rio
Calbayog as an example, the prelates Signatories of the pastoral statement Mining will destroy agriculture and So far, the barangay councils of Ba- Tuba, a mining area in Palawan.
said the mining company left the area titled “A Call to Stop Mining in Eastern fisheries, which are the main livelihoods naag, Buenavista, Hamorawon and San The clergy made their collective stand
permanently devastated and the river Visayas Region” were Palo Archbishop of the people, the clergy said. Jose, all in Manicani island, have already on the issue during their regular assem-
poisoned after having extracted all min- Jose S. Palma, Catarman Bishop Em- With only an area of 1,165.89 hectares passed a resolution seeking the same. bly on October 13 held at the Bishop
erals from the ground. manuel C. Trance, Borongan Bishop and no major source of water except rain The Hinatuan Mining Corporation Leonardo Y. Medroso Social Hall at the
“The people who had high hopes of Crispin B. Varquez, Maasin Bishop water, Manicani communities will be (HMC) failed to assume the responsibili- Bishop’s Residence in Borongan.
 Diocesan News
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 22
October 25 - November 7, 2010
A7

4 bishops to DAR: Enforce CARP in Teves land

CAGAYAN DE ORO City— Fol- December 2008.
lowing the awarding of a total DAR lawyer Eleazar Casi-
of 147 hectares of land to the pong was shot and killed when
Sumilao farmers, four bishops he was ambushed on his way
have called on Agrarian Reform home on board his motorbike
Secretary Gil delos Reyes to along a highway in Sibulan near
“implement and re-enforce” the Dumaguete City by two motor-
law on Comprehensive Agrarian riding masked men on January
Reform Program (CARP). 30, 2009.
Cagayan de Oro Archbishop Casipong was said to be help-
Antonio Ledesma, Manila Aux- ing the farmers against former
iliary Bishop Broderick Pabillo, Rep. Teves.
Kalookan Bishop Deogracias Baylon Iñiguez Ledesma Pabillo “We cannot allow lawless-
Iñiguez, and Legaspi Bishop Joel ness in Negros Oriental to make
Baylon asked DAR to “facilitate Supreme Court decision and in- The land in Bayawan City has He even lodged a case before tation and re-enforcement of the unfortunate farmers suffer and
the installation” of the 31 agrar- stall the CLOA holders with con- 11 ARBs while the one in Sta. the Supreme Court question- CARP law in Negros Oriental.” deprive them of justice,” the
ian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) tinuing police protection to ensure Catalina has 19 ARBs. ing DAR’s decision and urging “The Supreme Court [had] bishops added.
in the 62-hectare former Teves the safety of the farmers against a These lands were voluntarily the High Tribunal to issue a already decided in favor of the The bishops’ letter was also
land in Negros Oriental. resisting Teves,” they added. offered for distribution under certiorari. CLOA holders with finality in signed by Sr. Cecille Bayona
They said it is now high time The farmers were allegedly CARP by former Sen. Lorenzo But the Supreme Court ruled 2004, and yet in spite of this the of the Association of Major
for DAR to install the ARBs into driven away from the land by Teves in 1988. in 2004 in favor of the ARBs. CLOA holders cannot take pos- Religious Superiors of the Phil-
the land that have already been former Rep. Herminio Teves and In 1997, DAR issued a collec- After this, some pro-Teves session of the land due to harass- ippines (AMRSP), Sr. Angie
awarded to them under CARP. his henchmen after they tried tive Certificate of Land Owner- farmers filed separate petitions ment by the Teveses, including Villanueva of the AMRSP-JPICC,
“DAR, being the main agency to occupy the two contiguous ship Award (CLOA) in favor of for inclusion-exclusion against the killings of one farmer-leader former Sen. Aquilino Pimentel,
of the government to implement parcels of land consisting of 29 the ARBS of Caranoche. Two the Villareal and Caranoche and a DAR lawyer,” the bishops leaders of other Church-based
agrarian reform, should inter- hectares in Barangay Villareal, years later, DAR issued a CLOA ARBs. said. organizations and peasant ad-
vene and ensure the protection Bayawan City and 33 hectares to the Villareal ARBs. But bishops Ledesma, Pabillo, Arnaldo Hoyohoy, a son of vocate groups, and professors of
of [the] farmers,” they said in a in Barangay Caranoche in Sta. But Lorenzo’s brother, the Iñiguez and Baylon said the issue CLOA holder Romaldo Hoyo- the University of the Philippines
letter to Delos Reyes. Catalina that were awarded to former congressman, resisted is “not the exclusion or inclusion hoy was shot and killed by a lone and Ateneo University. (Bong
“We expect you to uphold the them under CARP. DAR’s decision. but simply the mere implemen- gunman in front of his house in D. Fabe)

Nuncio leads Borongan diocese jubilee celebration

BORONGAN, Eastern Samar— Hun- the teaching of the first bishop of
dreds of faithful from 33 parishes of Rome, St. Peter whose words can be
Easter Samar flocked to the Cathedral summed up in his command “Build
of the Nativity at the heart of the town the Church of God, continue building
to join Bishop Crispin Varquez in wel- it and you must continue building
coming the Papal nuncio Archbishop it up.”
Edward Joseph Adams and other prel- “And I say the same thing to you
ates from various parts of the country people of Borongan: ‘Build the Church
on Oct. 22. up, continue building it,’” the 66-year
Paying tribute to the people for the old prelate said.
fruitful 50 years of the diocese, the nun- He said the faithful can continue
cio said it is fitting and proper to thank building the Church in Borongan by
God for all His blessings. “keeping the commandments, witness-
“I accompany you in your hopes ing to the beatitudes, practicing the vir-
and joys, in your sorrows and trials as tues, living the new life with God which
I extend my congratulations to your means a constant process of change in
shepherd Bishop Varquez; and with your life for the better.”
him all my brother bishops whose pres- Newly-appointed Archbishop of
ence in this celebration is the way the Cebu and CBCP Vice President Arch-
local churches they represent also share bishop Jose S. Palma led the more than
in this anniversary joy,” the apostolic 20 other prelates from across the coun-
nuncio said. try who concelebrated with Archbishop
© Roy Lagarde / CBCP Media

He also extended his greetings to the Adams.

Catholic faithful of Borongan with the The Diocese of Borongan was cre-
warm affection of the successor of St. Pe- ated on October 22, 1960 and erected in
ter, His Holiness the Pope; to everyone April 11, 1961 and comprises the entire
in the ecclesial province as he imparts province of Eastern Samar with the
his blessing. Nativity of the Blessed Virgin as titular
Archbishop Adams quoted from saint. (Melo M. Acuña)

MILF doubts gov’t sincerity in forging Briefing

peace in Mindanao CSOs input needed to achieve DAR’s goal—
CAGAYAN DE ORO City—The Human Rights Council Meeting Arabia on April 18-19, 2009; and (CCCH) also complained about
Pacturan
Moro Islamic Liberation Front scheduled on September 27 upon he was also one of the members of the arrest to their counterpart in
CAGAYAN DE ORO City—DAR Undersecretary for Sup-
(MILF) has expressed doubts the invitation of an international the three-man MILF delegation to the government and asked that
port Services Jerry Pacturan has urged civil society orga-
on the Aquino administration’s non-government organization. the Conference of the Organiza- the charges against Guerra be
nizations to help the department develop the Philippine
sincerity to achieve lasting peace He is being held at a military base tion of Islamic Conference (OIC) dropped immediately leading to
countryside. Pacturan said DAR is now shifting its focus
in Mindanao following the ar- in Manila. in Dushanbe, Tajikistan on May his early release from detention.
to “something that has scale” and CSOs’ help are badly
rest of one of its officials, whose His arrest, according to Ameen, 1-20, 2010, Ameen added. The MILF has already formally
needed to pull this off. “We need to shift the work from
immediate release they are now runs counter to the GRP-MILF He said Guerra was chief of the protested the arrest before the
small livelihood programs and agriculture productivity
vehemently demanding. agreement that provides “safety MILF’s Foreign Affairs Commit- Philippine government.
to something that has scale.” (Bong D. Fabe)
Muhammad Ameen, chief of and security guarantee” to MILF tee when he was arrested. “We have filed a protest with
the MILF Secretariat, said that members who are directly in- “As member of the MILF cen- the Philippine government and in-
tral committee, which is the formed Malaysia about the arrest Member-consumers relieve power coop
the arrest of Eduard Guerra was volved in the peace process.
“a grave violation of the ceasefire But chief GRP peace negotia- principal of the MILF peace panel of Brother Eduard Guerra,” said management team
agreement and the spirit of the tor, lawyer Marvic Leonen, said and the ceasefire committee, Von Al Haq, MILF spokesman. LEGAZPI City– More than 100 member-consumers of
peace process between the Gov- that there was no violations of Eduard is covered by this guar- The MILF is talking peace Albay Electric Cooperative have unanimously voted for
ernment of the Republic of the the peace agreements because antee. How can our negotiating with the government following the relief of the power cooperative’s management team
Philippines and the MILF.” Guerra was not directly involved panel be confident about the talks several skirmishes with govern- in a special assembly held Oct. 16 at the Pastoral Center
“More seriously,” Ameen con- in the negotiations and therefore when their principals are being ment troops that resulted to of Legazpi Cathedral. By invoking their right to legislate
tinued in a report posted on the is not exempt from arrest and arrested?” Ameen asked. thousands of deaths on both sides as member-consumers, the multi-stakeholders signed the
front’s website, “it puts into prosecution. The MILF, in a resolution and billions of pesos in damages call to relieve Engr. Alex Realoza, operation-in-charge,
doubt the sincerity of the Aquino Leonen said that Guerra was signed by Ameen and attested through the years. and his team for mismanagement of the cooperative.
administration and exposes its arrested on the basis of a court by MILF Vice Chair for Political The peace negotiations was (Elmer James Bandol)
own so-called policy of the pri- warrant issued September 1, Affairs Ghazali Jaafar on Oct. 11 stalled in August 2008 after
macy of the peace process as 2010. Also, Guerra’s name was considers the arrest “as a direct disgruntled MILF commanders Manobo tribe decorates RP’s tallest tree for
empty words.” never submitted as a direct ne- blow to the early resumption of attacked Kolambugan town in Christmas
Ameen said Guerra’s arrest ex- gotiator of the MILF. the negotiation in Kuala Lumpur, Lanao del Norte following the SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur—The Manobo tribe is
poses “that the real policy of the But Ameen insisted that Guer- Malaysia.” Supreme Court’s ruling that set to “energize” the giant Toog tree or Philippine Rose-
government in Mindanao is not ra was a member of the MILF MILF Chairman Al Haj Mu- struck down the Memorandum of wood to signal the official start of the Christmas season
the ‘primacy of the peace process’ Technical Committee during the rad Ebrahim raised the issue of Agreement on Ancestral Domain in Barangay Alegria, which hosts the “third tallest tree in
but to crush the MILF through peace negotiations in Tripoli, Guerra’s arrest to the Malaysian (MOA-AD), which would have the world.” The ritual will be led by famous Datu Bardo
counter-insurgency measures, Libya in June 2001 and also in Country Facilitator, Datuk Oth- given the MILF control over large Bando, a Manobo chieftain who was once the regional
including the arrests of its top Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in 2002 man bin Abdulrazak, saying it areas in Mindanao if the residents commander of the New People’s Army in the Agusan
officials.” and 2003. has “serious implications to the vote for it in a plebiscite. provinces. (Bong D. Fabe)
Guerra was arrested Septem- Guerra was also one of the two- early resumption of the GRP- The upsurge of violence in 2008
ber 22 at the Davao International man delegation of the MILF dur- MILF peace talks.” displaced 750,000 people and left Sumilao farmers get remaining 10 hectares plus 3
Airport on his way to Switzer- ing the OIC Minorities’ Confer- The MILF Coordinating Com- nearly 400 people dead. (Bong more from DAR
land to attend the United Nations ence in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi mittee on Cessation of Hostilities D. Fabe) SUMILAO, Bukidnon—The long wait is finally over! The
famous Sumilao Farmers received on Oct. 10 the remain-

Church has say on RH Bill—Caceres prelate

ing 10 hectares, plus 3 hectares, of the disputed 144-hect-
are estate from DAR Secretary Gil Delos Reyes and USec.
Jerry Pacturan in a simple turn-over ceremony here. The
turnover came six months after they were awarded the 15
NAGA City—Amid the on-going criticisms ciety and establish a Government that shall participation in political matters, the pastoral
hectares of land outside the disputed 144 hectares estate
directed at the Catholic Church hierarchy for embody our ideals and aspirations,” the letter also clarified its opposition to the RH
of the San Miguel Corp. and another 50 hectares within
being vocal against the proposed Reproduc- prelate explained that it was “the duty of Bill now pending in Congress.
the 144 hectares last April 16, 2010. (Bong D. Fabe)
tive Health (RH) Bill, Caceres Archbishop the Church to remind the government of It questioned whether the proposed legis-
Leonardo Legaspi has issued a pastoral her constitutional mandate to protect this lation violates the Constitutional provision
letter seeking to clarify why the Church, in the Preamble of respecting the “people’s Energy chief orders power utilities to fast track
aspiration.”
particularly the clergy, is intervening in the The Archbishop furthered that it is the spiritual aspirations.” power plants’ rehab
contentious issue. Church’s mission from Christ which impels Moreover, it specifies the matter on re- CAGAYAN DE ORO City— Energy Secretary Jose Rene
Legaspi was reacting to the “malicious and it “to speak about social, economic or politi- productive health as a moral issue which Almendras has ordered power utilities that bought
tasteless name-calling and criticism” hurled at cal issues.” involves concerns on “development, sexual government assets to fast track the rehabilitation of
the Church hierarchy for its firm stand on the The first of supposed three-part pastoral health, rights of women and children” requir- power plants to mitigate the worsening power crisis in the
issue of responsible parenthood and the pas- letter, “Let the Stones Shout: On the Right ing “thorough study and careful analysis.” country. “I have given two or three letters already to the
sage into law of the RH Bill which promotes and of the Church to Proclaim the Truth and her The pastoral letter concluded with the companies who have bought government assets, pleading
would make available artificial contraceptives. Duty to lead the Faithful to True Freedom in Archbishop’s assertion that the Church is with them to please accelerate the rehabilitation,” he said
Citing the Constitution’s Preamble in and for the Truth,” was read in almost all the “a vital contributor in the political debate” in a radio interview. (Bong D. Fabe)
which the people implores the aid of God masses in the Archdiocese on Sunday. and is a “transformative resource.” (F. J.
in their pursuit of “a just and humane so- Aside from its explanation of the Church’s Lagdameo)
 A8 People, Facts & Places CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 22
October 25 - November 7, 2010

Sentro Filipino Chaplaincy Yuppies called to

holds Family Day celebration

protect family and
life, counter RH Bill
THE Sentro Filipino Chaplaincy in Rome AN amicable and logical discussion on
has gathered Filipino families for prayer and the issues of human life and reproductive
cultural activities at the Shrine of Our Lady of health may yet bring clarity on the life is-
Fatima in an annual celebration called Family sues muddled by differing opinions and
Day. global politics.
The annual activity, which showcases the The Banahaw Cultural Center for Profes-
unique Filipino culture, its wonderful delica- sional Men held a roundtable discussion on
cies and cuisines, aims to foster closer bonding the issues of human life and reproductive
among Filipino families based in Rome. The health bill for young professionals on Octo-
families celebrate together the devotion to ber 23 at 152 N. Domingo Street in Cubao,
our Lady whom they believe to have always Quezon City.
journeyed with them as they work hard for Called ‘Life Summit: a round table dis-
a better future for their families left in the cussion on human life and family issues’,
Philippines. the symposium aimed to clearly define and
The crowd comprised of Overseas Filipino clarify the meaning of life in the family and
Workers, priests and missionaries serving the in society.
sacraments in various Filipino communities, Speakers during the discussion include Dr.
nuns from several congregations, and some Lito Sandejas of Kanlungan ng Buhay, Atty.
business sectors advocating their services to Dindo Graciano of Alliance of the Family,
millions of Filipinos working in Italy. Inc., Dr. Roberto de Vera of the University
A meditative praying of the rosary was held of Asia & the Pacific, and Mark Goroy of
at 10 a.m. followed by the 12 p.m. Holy Mass. Choose Life Coalition.
Msgr. Pierpaolo Felicolo, the Director of Mi- The activity was Banahaw’s initial inter-
grantes in the Diocese of Rome led the Eucha- vention in fighting pro-RH bill sentiments in
ristic celebration with 35 priest concelebrants. an amicable and logical manner.
Family Day is a yearly event organized by Through the discussion Banahaw hopes to
the Filipino Chaplaincy under the leadership build a more informed and intelligent citizen

Contributed Photo
of chief Chaplain and Scalabrinian Fr. Romy who can publicly speak about what life is
Velos. in both the offline and online world. It also
Velos expressed high hopes on OFW´s to help seeks to unhinge biased media and create a
keep the faith alive in their families through more pro-active and pro-life citizen.
loving dedication to service and Christian Young men who wanted to be part of an
witnessing. (Fr. Garret Alfonso Ulanimo) intelligent pro-life discussion came and at-
tended the activity.

Prison Awareness Week focuses

The Banahaw Cultural Center, established
in 1968, is a center for young professionals
who embrace the spirituality of the Opus
Dei.

on alternatives to imprisonment
Meanwhile, to enlighten the public on
the misinformation caused by anti-life and
anti-family bills pending in Congress, Theo-
logical Centrum is making available again
THE Church’s celebration of the Themed as “Towards Justice That in Intramuros, Manila. the prisoners. its various Documentation Service issues on
Prison Awareness Week has focused Moves Beyond Punishment,” the Conferences were held to inform The celebration ended with a family and life.
on the need to consider alternatives week-long celebration was held on the public through the media of Eucharistic celebration presided by This effort is meant to provide people
to the country’s current punitive October 19-24, 2010. the reform agenda on justice by the Palawan Bishop Pedro Arigo at the guidance to make them more capable of de-
criminal justice system and impris- Rodolfo Diamante, executive sec- church and non-government agen- Maximum Security Compound, New fending human life and the family. Requests
onment. retary of ECPPC said, the week-long cies involved. Bilibid Prisons in Muntinlupa City. for publications can be made to Theological
The Episcopal Commission on celebration began with a thanksgiv- Diamante said it will also aid in Organizers said separate masses Centrum, 5th Floor, Quad Alpha Centrum
Prison Pastoral Care (ECPPC) of the ing mass officiated by Fr. Oliver promoting the adoption of more were also held by the VIPs in their Building, 125 Pioneer Street, Mandaluyong
Catholic Bishops Conference of the Dee, Director of the Philippine Jesuit restorative interventions in the penal respective areas in observance of City; telefax (02) 635 6113 or email: theologi-
Philippines (CBCP) spearheaded the Prison Service. The mass was held on system and the need to pass legisla- the week-long celebration. (Kate calcentrum@yahoo.com. (Jan Ong)
23rd Prison Awareness Week. October 18, 2010 at the CBCP Chapel tions that will enhance the dignity of Laceda)

Retreat for diocesan priests

to focus on Church laws
IN line with the current concern of Pope tive of a group of professionals, who were Francisco Aniban, J.C.D., of the Prelature of
Markings APPOINTED. Archbishop Jose Palma
Benedict XVI for the life in ministry of priests eager to assist priests in their response to the Opus Dei. as the new Archbishop of Cebu, October
15, 2010. Palo Archbishop Jose Palma
in these challenging times, Theological Second Vatican Council’s call to facilitate Fr. Aniban is a Chaplain of Southridge will replace Ricardo Cardinal Vidal whose
Centrum is holding a retreat for diocesan their on-going formation. School and also a Judicial Vicar of the resignation was finally accepted by Pope
priests to serve as a follow up of the aim of The retreat is scheduled on November Tribunal of First Instance of the Diocese of Benedict XVI. A vocal opponent of extra-
the last year’s Year for Priests: “Faithfulness 15-18, 2010, in Tagaytay Conference Center, Antipolo. judicial killings in Samar Island, Palma was
then the bishop of Calbayog when retired
of Christ, faithfulness of the Priest”. in Mendez, Cavite. Diocesan priests who are in need of few days Army General Jovito Palparan was still
Talks and workshops during the retreat Retreat preacher will be Rev. Fr. Daniel of quiet and personal reflection are encouraged the commanding officer of the 8th Infantry
will focus on Church laws and procedures Icatlo, J.C.D., a priest of the Prelature of to avail of this opportunity that would help Division based in Catbalogan, Samar. At
that priests and lay faithful must be aware of Opus Dei. deepen their spiritual life and ministry. that time, Palma did not mince words by
telling the public that the military under the
to guide the life and ministry of priests. Together with various pastoral tasks in Priests who have not yet made their re- command of Palparan was responsible
Held annually for some years now, the the Prelature, particularly as Chaplain of treat for the year 2010 and are interested on the numerous reports of human rights
retreat for diocesan priests was started by Southridge School, Fr. Icatlo also serves as a to join this group, may contact Theological violations there. He also pressed the gov-
Theological Centrum as part of its program Judge of the National Appellate Matrimonial Centrum, 5th Floor, Quad Alpha Centrum ernment to pursue criminal prosecution
to assist the dioceses in their on-going forma- of the retired military officer. As bishop of
Tribunal of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference Building, 125 Pioneer Street, Mandaluyong, Calbayog, he joined the other bishops of
tion programs for the secular clergy. of the Philippines. Manila, 1505 Philippines; call Telefax (02) 635 Samar crusading for environmental preservation and protection of the
This was made possible through the Stu- Aside from the meditations to be given 6113 or E-mail: theologicalcentrum@yahoo. island. It was in March 2006 when the 60-year old prelate was appointed
dium Theologiae Foundation Inc., an initia- by Fr. Icatlo, there will also be talks by Fr. com. (Fr. Mickey Cardenas) as archbishop of Palo in Leyte province. Palma was born in Dingle,
Iloilo on March 19, 1950. He studied his philosophy at St. Vincent Ferrer

Youth gathers to mark 20th FNYO anniversary

Seminary and his theology at St. Joseph Regional Seminary. He then
earned his Licentiate in Sacred Theology at the University of Sto. Tomas
in Manila, and his doctorate at the St. Thomas Aquinas Pontifical Univer-
sity in Rome. Palma was ordained priest for the Archdiocese of Jaro on
August 21, 1976. After a year as parochial vicar at the Jaro Cathedral,
he was given a teaching assignment in St. Vincent Ferrer Seminary. He
THE Federation of National some of the activities held during then became rector of the St. Joseph Regional Seminary. At the same
Youth Organizations (FNYO) the celebration. time he occupied several positions in the diocese. In 1997 he became the
celebrated its 20th Anniversary The assembly was organized by parish priest of the Parish of St. Anthony of Padua in Jaro. In 1998, he
creating rapport and fellowship the FNYO coordinating council was named Auxiliary Bishop of Cebu by then Pope John Paul II. A year
later, he was transferred to the Diocese of Calbayog. Palma is currently
among its young members. composed of the Chiro Pilipinas, serving his first term as vice president of the Catholic Bishops’ Confer-
Themed as “FNYO @ 20: Student Catholic Action of the ence of the Philippines.
Major, Major Thank You, BRO! Philippines, Salesian Youth
(20- Taon ng Pagkakaisa, Kahit Movement, Institucion Teresiana CELEBRATED. Diocese of Borongan,
50th jubilee of foundation, October 22,
Magkakaiba), the celebration Youth and Franciscan Youth. 2010. Apostolic nuncio to the Philip-
was held at the Auditorium of Youth organizations that have pines Archbishop Edward Joseph
Claret School of Quezon City participated were the Columbian Adams led the Eucharistic celebra-
on Oct. 9. Squires; CLC; Institucion tion together with 20 other prelates
across the country. On October 22,
The festivity aimed to Teresiana Youth; Tarsician 1960 Pope John XXIII, created the
gather and build a spirit of Youth; Singles for Christ; Youth Diocese of Borongan, installing Most
camaraderie among young for Christ; Cannosian Youth Reverend Vicente Reyes, D.D., then
people from different catholic Movement; Focolare; Filipino- Auxiliary Bishop of Manila, as the First Residential Bishop of Borongan.
The diocese’s current bishop is Most Rev. Crispin Varquez. The diocese
youth organizations. Chinese Catholic Youth; Society comprises the entire province of Eastern Samar. It is divided into three
Talk shows, exhibits and of St. Vincent de Paul; among regions, each consisting of 2 vicariates. It covers 26 parishes in 22 mu-
Eucharistic celebrations were others. (Kate Laceda) nicipalities and 4 barrios, ministered to by 60 diocesan and 5 religious
priests. Borongan, the capital town of the province is also the seat of the

Advocates meet to discuss reforms in prison ministry

episcopal see. The Catholic faith was brought to the province through the
evangelization efforts of the early missionaries, notably the Jesuits and
later on the Franciscans and the Augustinians.

DIED. Engr. Jose (Pepe) Lugay, 82, October

ADVOCATES of reform for the prison ICCPPC will lead the delegation. ences and local ordinary to establish and 24, 2010. A Chemical Engineer by profession,
Engr. Lugay was the former Chairman of the
system are set to meet for their Annual Ex- Attendees of the meeting are Dr. Christian further Prison Pastoral Care in offering the Sangguniang Laiko ng Pilipinas. He and his
ecutive Board Meeting to promote human- Kuhn of Austria, ICCPPC President; Rev. best support. late wife Lina served as Chaircouple of the
ization, revision and reform of the prison Brian Gowans of Scotland, Vice President; During their stay in the country, the IC- Christian Family Movement. He was also
system in the world. Gerard Loman of Netherlands, Secretary CPPC Executive Board will also have various Director of the Ephpheta Foundation for the
Blind, Vice President of the Concerned Citizens
The meeting also aims to encourage the General: Deacon and Fred Van Iersel of activities such as jail visitation and exposure Against Pollution and was President of the
Church and the society of a “greater aware- Netherlands, Treasurer. at the Correctional Institution for Women in Philippine Solidarity Fund Foundation and the
ness” of the Prison Pastoral Care and to form Fr. Peter Carroll, MSC of Australia, Ocea- Mandaluyong City; Fellowship with CBCP- Jubilee Homes for the Poor Foundation. Engr.
pastoral information, courses and studies for nia’s Representative; Fr. Jorge Ignacio Garcia ECPPC Chaplains and Volunteers in Prison Lugay also served as Professional Manage-
ment Consultant of San Miguel Corporation,
the prison pastoral ministry. Cuerva of Argentina, Latin America’s Rep- Service and government officials; and En- Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital and the National Kidney and Transplant
Organized by the CBCP’s Episcopal Com- resentative; Sr. Jacky Atabong of Cameroon, gagements with members of the Philippine Institute. He was CBCP-Laiko’s volunteer observer to the Bids and Awards
mission on Prison Pastoral Care (ECPPC), the African Region Representative and Sr. Susan Action for Youth and Offenders (PAYO) and Committee of the Department of Interior and Local Government, Philhealth
meeting with the International Commission Van Baalen, OP, North America Representa- PRAISED, an inter-faith organization that is Corporation, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Social Security System and
National Kidney and Transplant Institute. He was also the chair of Laiko’s
of Catholic Prison Pastoral Care (ICCPPC) tive will also participate in the assembly. working in various jails and prisons. Advocacy on Good Governance. Through his column at the CBCP Monitor,
will be held on October 25-29, 2010 at the Founded in 1950, ICCPPC is a non-gov- The Board hopes that through these activi- which he has maintained for the last four years, Engr. Lugay has shared
Balay Indang in Cavite. ernment organization in consultative status ties the mission of sharing God’s love and with his readers his rich and inspiring insights on how a lay person should
Rodolfo Diamante, Executive Secretary of with the United Nations that is tasked to promoting justice that moves beyond pun- make a difference in this world.
CBCP-ECPPC and Asia’s Representative for animate the respective Episcopal Confer- ishment will be fulfilled. (Kate Laceda)
 CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 22
October 25 - November 7, 2010 Pastoral Concerns B1

‘We Must Never Resign

Ourselves to the Absence
of Peace’

(Homily of Pope Benedict XVI delivered at St. Peter’s Basilica during the solemn closing
of the Special Assembly for the Middle East of the Synod of Bishops on October 24, 2010;
www.media.masslive.com

on the theme: “The Catholic Church in the Middle East: Communion and Witness.”)
Venerable Brothers, are afflicted. “The prayer of the humble other so that each may return to his own Synodal meeting its deep conviction to can bring to society is the promotion of
Illustrious Ladies and Gentlemen, pierces the clouds” affirms Ecclesiasticus mission, but we know that we remain pursuing such dialogue as well, so that an authentic freedom of religion and
Dear brothers and sisters, (35:21); and the Psalmist adds: “Yahweh united, we remain in his love. the prayer of the Lord Jesus might be conscience, one of the fundamental
is near to the broken-hearted, he helps The Synodal Assembly which completely fulfilled: “May they all be human rights that each state should
TWO weeks on from the opening those whose spirit is crushed” (34:18). concludes today has always kept in one” (Jn 17:21). always respect. In numerous countries
Celebration, we are gathered on ce Our thoughts go to our numerous mind the icon of the first Christian The words of the Lord Jesus may be of the Middle East there exists freedom
again on the Lord’s day, at the Altar of brothers and sisters who live in the community, described in the Acts of the applied to Christians in the Middle East: of belief, while the space given to the
the Confession in St. Peter’s Basilica, to region of the Middle East and who find Apostles: “The whole group of believers “There is no need to be afraid, little flock, freedom to practice religion is often quite
conclude the Special Assembly for the themselves in trying situations, at times was united, heart and soul” (Acts 4:32). for it has pleased your Father to give you limited. Increasing this space of freedom
Middle East of the Synod of Bishops. In very burdensome, both for the material It is a reality that we experienced in these the kingdom” (Lk 12:32). Indeed, even becomes essential to guarantee to all
our hearts is a deep gratitude towards poverty and for the discouragement, past days, in which we have shared the if they are few, they are bearers of the the members of the various religious
God who has afforded us this truly the state of tension and at times of fear. joys and the pains, the concerns and the Good News of the love of God for man, communities the true freedom to live
extraordinary experience, not just for Today the Word of God also offers us hopes of Christians in the Middle East. love which revealed itself in the Holy and profess their faith. This topic could
us, but for the good of the Church, a light of consoling hope, there where We experienced the unity of the Church Land in the person of Jesus Christ. This become the subject of dialogue between
for the People of God who live in the He presents prayer, personified, that in the variety of Churches present in Word of salvation, strengthened with the Christians and Muslims, a dialogue
lands between the Mediterranean and “until he has eliminated the hordes of the that region. Led by the Holy Spirit, grace of the Sacraments, resounds with whose urgency and usefulness was
Mesopotamia. As Bishop of Rome, I arrogant and broken the sceptres of the we became “united, heart and soul” in particular potency in the places in which, reiterated by the Synodal Fathers.
would like to pass on this gratitude wicked, until he has repaid all people as faith, in hope, and in charity, most of all by Divine Providence, it was written, and During the work of the Synod what
to you, Venerable Synod Fathers: their deeds deserve and human actions during Eucharistic celebrations, source it is the only Word which is able to break was often underlined was the need to
Cardinals, Patriarchs, Archbishops, as their intentions merit” (Ecc 35:21-22). and summit of ecclesial communion, that vicious circle of vengeance, hate, and offer the Gospel anew to people who do
Bishops. I wish to especially thank the This link too, between prayer and justice and in the Liturgy of the Hours as well, violence. From a purified heart, in peace not know it very well or who have even
Secretary General, the four Presidents makes us think of many situations in the celebrated every morning according to with God and neighbor, may intentions moved away from the Church. What
Delegate, the Relator General, the Special world, particularly in the Middle East. one of the seven Catholic rites of the and initiatives for peace at local, national, was often evoked was the need for a
Secretary and all the collaborators, who The cry of the poor and of the oppressed Middle East. We have thus enhanced and international levels be born. In these new evangelization for the Middle East
have worked tirelessly in these days. finds an immediate echo in God, who the liturgical, spiritual and theological actions, to whose accomplishment the as well. This was quite a widespread
This morning we left the Synod Hall and desires to intervene to open up a way wealth of the Eastern Catholic Churches, whole international community is called, theme, especially in the countries where
came to “the temple to pray”: in this, we out, to restore a future of freedom, a as well as of the Latin Church. It Christians as full-fledged citizens can Christianity has ancient roots. The
are touched directly by the parable of horizon of hope. involved an exchange of precious and must do their part with the spirit recent creation of the Pontifical Council
the pharisee and the publican, told by This faith in God who is near, who gifts, from which all the Synodal of the Beatitudes, becoming builders of for Promoting the New Evangelization
Jesus and recounted by the evangelist frees his friends, is what the Apostle Fathers benefitted. It is hoped that this peace and apostles of reconciliation to also responds to this profound need. For
St. Luke (cf. 18:9-14). We too may be Paul witnesses to in today’s epistle, in positive experience repeats itself in the the benefit of all society. this reason, after having consulted the
tempted, like the pharisee, to tell God of the Second Letter to Timothy. Realizing respective communities of the Middle Conflicts, wars, violence and terrorism episcopacy of the whole world and after
our merits, perhaps thinking of our work that the end of his earthly life was near, East, encouraging the participation of have gone on for too long in the having listened to the Ordinary Council
during these days. However, to rise up Paul makes an assessment: “I have the faithful in liturgical celebrations Middle East. Peace, which is a gift of of the General Secretariat of the Synod
to Heaven, prayer must emanate from fought the good fight to the end; I have of other Catholic rites, thus opening God, is also the result of the efforts of of Bishops, I have decided to dedicate
a poor, humble heart. And therefore we run the race to the finish; I have kept themselves to the dimensions of the men of goodwill, of the national and the next Ordinary General Assembly,
too, at the conclusion of this ecclesial the faith” (2 Tm 4:7). For each one of us, Universal Church. international institutions, in particular in 2012, to the following theme: “Nova
event, wish to first and foremost give dear brothers in the episcopacy, this is a Common prayer helped us to face of the states most involved in the search evangelizatio ad christianam fidem
thanks to God, not for our merits, but model to imitate: May Divine Goodness the challenges of the Catholic Church for a solution to conflicts. We must never tradendam - The new evangelization for
for the gift that He has given us. We allow us to make a similar judgment of in the Middle East as well. One of these resign ourselves to the absence of peace. the transmission of the Christian faith”.
recognize ourselves as small and in need ourselves! St Paul continues, “the Lord is communion within each sui iuris Peace is possible. Peace is urgent. Peace Dear brothers and sisters of the Middle
of salvation, of mercy; we recognize all stood by me and gave me power, so that Church, as well as in the relationships is the indispensable condition for a life East! May the experience of these days
that comes from Him and that only with through me the message might be fully between the various Catholic Churches of dignity for human beings and society. assure you that you are never alone,
his Grace we may realize what the Holy proclaimed for all the gentiles to hear” of different traditions. As today’s Gospel Peace is also the best remedy to avoid that you are always accompanied by the
Spirit told us. Only in this manner may (2 Tm 4:17). It is a word which resounds reminded us (cf Lk 18:9-14), we need emigration from the Middle East. “Pray Holy See and the whole Church, which,
we “return home” truly enriched, made with particular strength on this Sunday humility, in order to recognize our for the peace of Jerusalem” we are told having been born in Jerusalem, spread
more just and more able to walk in the in which we celebrate World Mission limitations, our errors and omissions, in in the Psalm (122:6). We pray for peace through the Middle East and then the rest
path of the Lord. Day! Communion with Jesus crucified order to be able to truly be “united, heart in the Holy Land. We pray for peace in of the world. We entrust the results of the
The First Reading and the responsorial and risen, witness of his love. The and soul”. A fuller communion within the Middle East, undertaking to try to Special Assembly for the Middle East, as
Psalm stress the theme of prayer, Apostle’s experience is a model for every the Catholic Church favors ecumenical ensure that this gift of God to men of well as the preparation for the Ordinary
emphasizing that it is much more Christian, especially for us Shepherds. dialogue with other Churches and goodwill should spread through the General Assembly, to the Blessed Virgin
powerful to God’s heart when those We have shared a powerful moment of ecclesial communities as well. The whole world. Mary, Mother of the Church and Queen
who pray are in a condition of need and ecclesial communion. We now leave each Catholic Church reiterated in this Another contribution that Christians of Peace. Amen.
B2 Updates CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 22
October 25 - November 7, 2010

The Judicial Vicar in the College

of Consultors of the Diocese
By Fr. Jaime Blanco freely appoints not fewer rationale behind it was the prescribed in c.413, §1 is not its consent to issue dimissorial to them.
Achacoso, J.C.D. than six and not more than difficulty of convoking the possible, it is the duty of the letters to secular clerics who That having been said,
twelve priests, who are for five council of priests in all cases, College of Consultors to elect must receive Holy Orders it nevertheless seems
years to constitute the college especially in the most urgent a priest who will govern the (c.1018, §1,2º). prudent to assure that such
I am the Judicial Vicar in my of consultors. To it belong matters; a smaller group diocese (c.413, §2). 12) It must be heard by a close-knit consultative
diocese. Yesterday, I attended the functions determined would facilitate greater agility 5) When the see is vacant the bishop for financial body count on experts for
a meeting of the Board of by law; on the expiry of the in consultation. and if there are no auxiliary administrative acts of a certain all the areas of pastoral
Consultors of our diocese. The five year period, however, Its purpose is to assist the bishops, and if the Holy See value. The bishop has to obtain work and governance of the
bishop invited me to attend the it continues to exercise its bishop in cases established has not provided otherwise, its consent for extraordinary diocese. Thus, considering the
meeting, because he wanted me functions until the new college by Law, and to appoint an it assumes the governance administrative acts, besides importance of their respective
to shed light on some cases. is constituted. administrator of the diocese of the diocese (c.419), and those specially indicated areas of competence in the
After I presented my opinion, I §2. The diocesan bishop during an impeded or vacant it must choose a diocesan by the universal law or the diocese, the following would
courteously left the room for them presides over the college of see. Administrator within eight founding statutes (c.1277). be useful and effective in that
to continue with another item in consultors. If, however, the days from the notice of the 13) The diocesan bishop must body: the different vicars
the agenda. My question is: Is see is impeded or vacant, Specific Functions of the vacancy of the see (c.421, obtain its consent to alienate (for their respective areas of
the judicial vicar automatically that person presides who in College of Consultors §1). goods (whose value is between responsibility), the chancellor
an ex officio member of the Board the interim takes the bishop’s The specific functions of 6) It informs the Holy See the minimum and maximum (for archival matters), the
of Consultors? Or is the judicial place, or, if he has not yet bee the College of Consultors of the death of the diocesan amounts as established by economic officer, the judicial
vicar only just on call, at the appointed, then the priest in provided for by the Code are bishop when there is no the Bishops’ Conference) of vicar. Nevertheless, since
discretion of the Bishop? I would the college of consultors who the following: auxiliary bishop (c.422). juridical persons not subject the purpose of this body
appreciate any enlightenment is senior by ordination. 1) The diocesan 7) It receives the possible to their own ordinary, when is precisely to be readily
on this. §3. The Bishops’ Conference administrator needs its renunciation from office of the statutes do not indicate available for consultation by
can determine that the consent to be able to proceed the diocesan administrator. In a competent authority. Its the diocesan bishop and to
THIS question really touches functions of the college of (after the see has been vacant this case (and in the case of the consent is also required for avoid possible conflicts of
on a larger issue of the consultors be entrusted to the a year) to the incardination death of the administrator) it the alienation of the goods interests and time constraints,
Presbyteral Council (or cathedral chapter. or excardination of clergy to must select another, pursuant of the diocese (c.1292,§1; cf. it would also seem wise to
Council of Priests) of the §4. Unless the law provides or from the diocese, and to to c.421 (cf. also c.430). c.1295) include in this consultative
Diocese. Leaving this larger otherwise, in a vicariate grant permission to transfer 8) The diocesan body other priests also
matter for the next issues of or prefecture apostolic the to another diocese (c.272). administrator (not the bishop) No Ex-Officio Members of competent on the materials
CBCP Monitor, we can briefly functions of the college of 2) In the special case of c.377, must obtain its consent for the College of Consultors corresponding to the above
tackle the question presented consultors belong to the §3, it can be consulted for the the removal of the chancellor The Code of Canon Law diocesan officers─e.g.,
to us, regarding the Board of council of mission mentioned appointment of the diocesan and the notaries of the curia does not provide for any another expert in Canon
Consultors and the Judicial in c.495, §2. bishop or the coadjutor (c.485). ex-officio member of the Law, other than the Judicial
Vicar’s membership in it. The College of Consultors bishop. 9) It must be heard for the college of consultors. It is not Vicar; and another person
can be considered as an 3) It receives the apostolic appointment of the diocesan difficult to understand the knowledgeable in finances,
The College of Consultors of innovation of the Code, which letters coadjutor upon the financial officer (c.494, §1) and reason behind this: to give other than the Finance Officer
the Diocese prescribes its constitution as a diocesan bishop taking of for his removal (c.494, §2). the diocesan bishop maximum of the diocese.
This matter is regulated in permanent college of priests, his office, and likewise in the 10) It receives the profession leeway and freedom to choose In the end, what is important
can.502 of the Code of Canon freely chosen by the bishop case of the bishop when the of faith of the diocesan from among his presbyterium is that the body is competent to
Law in the following terms: from among the members of diocesan bishop is impeded administrator (c.833, 4º). those who would constitute give the bishop the necessary
§1. From among the the council of priests, in a (c.382, §3 and c.44, §§1 & 3). his own senate, to give a counsel for the different acts
members of the council of number not less than six but 4) When the see is impeded, 11) The diocesan consultative vote on those of governance he may need
priests, the diocesan bishop not greater than twelve. The and when that which is administrator must obtain matters he chooses to refer to consult them with.

May They Be One

Anointing for mental Bible Campaign
disorders Help Put a Bible in Every Filipino Home

(Father Edward McNamara, professor

of liturgy at the Regina Apostolorum
university, answers the following
query:)

Q: Could someone who has

mental problems/disorders
receive the anointing of the sick?
For example, people who battle
an illness such as anxiety/panic
disorder, bipolar, depression,
schizophrenia, etc. I would think
that these types of illness are not
in and of themselves necessarily
life-threatening, but they could be
and could lead to life-threatening
situations. I have a friend in Nova
Scotia who visited a shrine in
Quebec last summer. The shrine
held a special anointing of the sick,
but the priest announced that it

One in the Bible Cause,

was only for those truly ill and/
or with a life-threatening illness.
My friend was truly upset and
didn’t know whether to receive
the anointing. She has had cancer
and now suffers an anxiety/panic
One in the Community
P
disorder, always living in fear
of the cancer returning.—T.O., arish priest Rev. Fr. Gerard Ariston Perez, seeking to widen his borders in
Vermont the spread of God’s Word, brought the May They Be One (MTBO) Bible
Campaign not only to the Holy Guardian Angels Parish in Tuao, Cagayan
but also to the rest of the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao. Partnering with Biblical
A: In general the sacrament of
Formation teams, eight parishes started working together in June 2010 to distribute
the sick is reserved for serious (but some 2,500 MTBO Bibles in their communities. Heads of families, trained to lead
not necessarily life- threatening) the 7-step gospel sharing method led Bible sharing groups in their communities.
physical illness which significantly The Sambuhay (misalette) which contained the Sunday Gospel was previously
affects one’s health and well-being. the closest the people got to a Bible. Now, MTBO Bible recipients are privileged
It can also be administered before to have copies of the whole Bible that they say they now read regularly. They
a serious operation or one that recount that the regular Bible reading gave them a greater capacity to feel God’s
requires complete sedation, even if love and experience His grace and presence, especially in times of need and
the underlying condition is not in danger. The effects of the parishes’ united efforts in the MTBO Bible Distributions
itself life-threatening. It may also are now being felt in the community as the residents are now noticeably more
be administered to those over 65 open and generous to each other. They have also become actively involved in
if notably weakened, even if they the concerns of their parish and its work in the community.
www.english.op.org

do not suffer from any particular

illness.
Historically the Church has not No. of Dioceses participating in the Bible
administered this sacrament for less Campaign – 76 out of 86 Dioceses
Praise God for many new donors Bibles Distributed (Jan 2010 – Oct. 18,
serious illnesses, even if chronic. and partners of MTBO as a
Until relatively recently, mental 2010): 145,520 cps.
result of the Bible campaign’s Bibles Distributed by Languages - Tagalog
illnesses were not usually considered who are judged to have a serious mental receive this sacrament in the faith of
as subjects for anointing.
September 30 2nd Anniversary (38,596 cps.), Cebuano (43,474 cps.)
illness and who would be strengthened the Church will find it a true sign of
Medical science, however, has by the sacrament may be anointed. The comfort and support in time of trial. promotion and celebration. English (26,091 cps.), Ilocano (14,449
Please pray for the ongoing cps.), Hiligaynon (11,458 cps.), Bicol
discovered that some hitherto mental anointing may be repeated in accordance It will work to overcome the sickness (6,291cps), Pangasinense (3,858 cps.),
illnesses are in fact symptoms of with the conditions for other kinds of if this is God’s will.” registration of churches, groups
and organizations as unity Pampango (1,303 cps.)
physical imbalances. For example, severe illness.” Finally, while it is possible that Parishes/Communities served: 488
the dementia associated with The minister should proceed with anxiety and similar mental strains centers for the Handwritten Unity
Total Bible Distribution: (Jan 2009 - Oct
Alzheimer’s is apparently mental, some caution with respect to anointing could reach a stage of seriousness Bible project which will begin in 18, 2010): 249,780 cps
but it is also a fatal, and still incurable, for mental illness. There is no clear cut that would warrant anointing, it January 2011. Target No. of Bibles for Distribution for
disease. standard to determine “seriousness.” is also important to recall that the 2010: 200,000 cps.
Even if the serious mental For this reason, such situations should Church’s habitual sources of grace Total Funds Needed for Printing and
illness is not caused by known be handled on a case-by-case basis such as frequent recourse to the Transport of Bibles in 2010: P30M
physical phenomena, No. 53 of the and in consultation with the person’s sacraments of reconciliation and
introduction to Pastoral Care of the physician. As stated in PCS, No. 8: “A Eucharist, closeness to the Blessed
To learn more about how you can be part of the Campaign and make significant
Sick: Rites of Anointing and Viaticum prudent or reasonably sure judgment, Mother, as well as prayer and seeking change, call us at PBS 526-7777, ECBA 527-9386 or visit www.bible.org.ph and www.
(PCS) opens up the possibility of the without scruple, is sufficient for deciding spiritual guidance are of great benefit ecba-cbcp.com. Donations can be made by making a deposit to the following bank
use the sacrament in such cases. To on the serious of an illness. If necessary in helping us to overcome these accounts: PBS-MTBO Account#393-0649-34 (BPI Sta. Mesa Branch) Fax deposit
wit: “Some types of mental sickness a doctor may be consulted.” burdens or at least bear patiently the slip to 521-5803 or ECBA-CBCP Account #0251-021376 (BPI-Tayuman Branch)
are now classified as serious. Those Also PCS, No. 52: “Those who trials permitted by God. Fax deposit slip to 527-9386. For credit card payments—go to PBS website (www.
bible.org.ph)
 Features
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 22
October 25 - November 7, 2010
B3

Diocesan Pastoral Reflection on

Barangay and SK Elections

© Dennis Dayao/CBCP Media

By Bishop Ruperto Cruz and morals.” services from them. These conscience let us use our right to all elective posts. O Lord Jesus, as we go out
Santos With these as guiding principles people are given and entrusted to vote morally. Let us go for Before his martyrdom Thomas to vote, be with us and remind
and with the forthcoming October to us as opportunities to help quality rather than quantity. More confessed that he was to us that:
25 Barangay and SK Elections, let them, uplift them, promote Let us be moved by good deeds die ‘in and for the faith of the Holy our vote is our right,
WHEN the great Pope John Paul me share with you my pastoral their rights, provide for their rather than fine words. Let Catholic Church’ and he died as our vote is our choice,
II proclaimed Thomas More as reflections. needs and improve their lives. us be challenged by legal and ‘king’s good servant, but God’s our vote must be based on the
the Patron Saint of Statesmen To aspire for public office Saint Matthew reminds us that good examples rather than fiery first.’ dictates of our conscience,
and Politicians, he affirmed that should be a desire, first and Jesus came “not to be served but speeches. Let us be inspired by a and our vote decides our
the saint’s entire life was a living foremost, to be of help to to serve” (20, 28). credible and honest living rather Let this be our prayer for every future.
witness to “the inalienable dignity others. It should be motivated Any position in government, than external appearances. Let election: O Lord Jesus, as we go out to
of the human conscience” and primarily by dedication to especially those requiring a us be carried away by noble vote please grant us the grace
his martyrdom was a touching serve; and to be of service means mandate from the people, performances rather than bold Lord Jesus, our good Shepherd and wisdom
lesson in life that “man cannot willingness to give, to share involves a responsibility and promises and showmanship. Let and benevolent Sower. to cast our vote for the glory
be separated from God, nor politics and to offer all one possesses, duty to serve them. This service us be attracted by selfless service As we go out vote, walk with of God,
from morality.” rather than to amass power is like that of Good Shepherd rather than giveaways. Let us be us to safety and to a moral for the good of our
The Pastoral Constitution and wealth for himself or for in the Gospel of Saint John (cfr. motivated by what he can do for decision. community,
Gaudium et Spes (76) clearly his group. Public officials are John 10,11-15). A true shepherd God and for His people rather Let us not be intimidated by for the welfare of everybody,
states that in our fulfillment of called upon to serve especially leads and guides his flock to than to his own and to himself. show of force. and
civic duties, we must be “guided those who are less privileged, the right and moral path. He The barangay and SK elections Let us not be carried away by for the bright future and
by a Christian conscience.” The less fortunate, and least taken defends and protects them. He may be the lowest in the totem instant promises of jobs and false security of our children.
Congregation for the Doctrine care of. Our position in society, gives and sustains the life of his pole of elections for public office. securities. We humbly pray O Lord Jesus,
of the Church likewise noted community or place of work— flock. Would you not choose a But we should begin with the Let us not be moved by a for a clean and honest election.
that “a well-formed Christian whether involving religious or leader with these positive traits? smallest things. The Gospel said sense of gratitude or by padrino We humbly implore You O
conscience does not permit one to civic authority--does not mean Would you not let yourself be that he who could be trusted in system. Lord Jesus, our good Shepherd
vote for a political program or an that we lord over those who under his care, under this kind small things can be trusted in big Let us not be bought by money and benevolent Sower
individual law which contradicts are under us, or that we feel of shepherd? things. The proper and moral or by promotions or assurances for a peaceful and responsible
the fundamental contents of faith superior to them and demand Guided by our well-formed exercise of our suffrage applies of positions. Barangay and SK elections.

Contraceptive Campaign Can Backfire condoms, but by concurrent multipartner

By Dr. Bernardo M. Villegas
sexual activity. Those pushing condoms
as the only solution for the AIDS
ALTHOUGH I do not question their epidemic, ignore the psychology of
motives of fighting mass poverty with multipartner sexual activity.
artificial contraceptives, a good number Those who engage in sexual relations
of top executives in the Philippines with a number of partners, almost by
have to re-examine the facts about definition, tend to value their personal
the promotion of condom use in the gratification over the well-being of their
Philippines. Now that Thailand is very partners. Those most at risk engage in
much in the news because of the political sex with people they don’t know very
infighting among the major parties, well. Insisting condom use in such
it might be enlightening to consider situations implies a lack of trust, it breaks
what happened in that otherwise the mood, it interferes with the seduction
economically successful country because that is part of such encounters. The
of the massive promotion of condom use, Pope is right in worrying that condom
led by a leading business man, during promotion may actually increase the
the closing decades of the last century. problem, because condom promotion
Instead of reducing the incidence of campaigns necessarily spread a false sense
AIDS, Thailand has the highest number of security. The campaigns do not warn
of HIV-infected citizens in the East the prospective users that condoms, even
Asian region. What has happened to when used every time and correctly, will
Thailand demonstrate the validity of the only reduce the risk of infection but do not
much-criticized statement made by Pope entirely prevent the contraction of HPV,
Benedict XVI in his recent trip to Africa: which causes cancer and warts. Instead,
that condoms actually end up increasing they paint a picture of fun and freedom.
www.futura-sciences.com

the possibility of an AID epidemic in According to the Lancet article cited above,
some African countries. a vigorous condom-promotion activity
In a well-researched article titled “AIDS could increase rather than decrease
Prevention in Africa,” health writer Dale unprotected sexual exposure, if it has the
O’Leary defended the Pope from his critics unintended effect of encouraging great
in the Western press. He cites evidences sexual promiscuity.
contained in a book titled Rethinking True enough, according to a study
AIDS Prevention by Edward Green. high condom use has yet to produce to achieve anything close to consistent require substantial changes in behavior. published in the Journal of AIDS in
Green had gone to Africa accepting the demonstrable benefits. The sad experience condom use over time. No matter how The difference is that while the decision 2005, men supplied with condoms
conventional wisdom that condoms were shows that high HIV transmission can good the intentions of those in the to practise abstinence and fidelity is made and properly educated about their use
the solution for the AIDS epidemic. He co-exist with high condom use. program, after a few months, use drops with your clothes on, the decision to use reported a significantly higher number
soon discovered, however, that massive An article in the prestigious British significantly. This is true in Africa and a condom is made with your clothes off, of partners during the six months follow-
condom education and distribution medical journal The Lancet concluded: true among men who have sex with in the heat of passion and often under up period when compared with the six
programs were not working. On the other “Massive increases in condom use men in the U.S. As a result, where the influence of alcohol or drugs. The months prior to their joining the study.
hand, a program promoting abstinence worldwide have not translated into condoms are promoted as the answer, decision not to engage in sex requires In this way, they increased their risk of
before marriage and fidelity within demonstrably improved HIV control the epidemic continues. discipline, will power, and is strongly infection. All these findings support the
marriage in Uganda was successful. in the great majority of countries where Why have massive condom education supported by both custom and religion. Pope’s statement in his trip to Africa:
His conclusion has been confirmed by they have occurred.” Those promoting and distribution campaigns failed to While condom promoters encourage condoms may sound like the solution to
numerous other studies. In 2003, Norman condoms as the solution insist that slow the AIDS epidemic in Africa, while people to use a condom every time, the the AIDS problem, but governments and
Hearst and Sanny Chen conducted a a correct and consistent condom use a campaign stressing abstinence before fact is that if both partners are HIV free funders need to look at the results and
condom effectiveness study for the U.N.’s reduces infections. The problem is that marriage and fidelity in marriage has had and monogamous, the risk of infection only support programs with a proven
AID program. They concluded that in no intervention or education program, positive results. The answer is found in is zero. The epidemic is not driven record of success. For comments, my
many sub-Saharan African countries, no matter how intense, has been able patterns of behavior. Both approaches by monogamous couples not using email address is bvillegas@uap.edu.ph.
 Features
CBCP Monitor
B4 Vol. 14 No. 22
October 25 - November 7, 2010

RP bishop, Shrine rectors join world congress on

pastoral care of pilgrimage and shrines

Contributed photo
By Fr. Edwin Corros in appreciating the numerous James, in the city that bears his and the shrine are really realms such as the Our Lady Fatima in participants, the Philippine
aspects and importance of the name. of the Word, of celebration, of Portugal, Our Lady of Lourdes in Church ranked second for having
pastoral care of pilgrimage and He also spoke of life as a charity, of ecclesial communion, France, Our Lady of Guadalupe in sent 21 delegates. Most countries
A DELEGATION of Shrine shrines. pilgrimage touching as well the of Eucharistic communion and Mexico and Our Lady of the Holy were able to send only one or two
rectors from the Philippines In his inaugural address, experience of a pilgrim to that of of mission.” Rosary of Pompei in Italy. delegates.
led by Maasin Bishop Precioso Archbishop Antonio Maria the experience of the disciples on The workshops for each topic Other rectors were seen The Association of the Shrine
Cantillas had participated in Veglio, president of the Pontifical the way to Emmaus. had brought all delegates to distributing medals, small statues RectorsandPilgrimagePromoters
the Second World Congress on Council for the Pastoral Care “As he did with the disciples exchange ideas and experiences and even commemorative coins of the Philippines were among
the Pastoral Care of Pilgrimage for Migrants said the aim of the of Emmaus, the Lord goes to of their own respective shrines, issued by their government those acknowledged by the
and Shrines held in Santiago congress was to evangelize. meet the pilgrim in his doubts including topics that deal on the recognizing the significant Vatican for having contributed to
de Compostela, Spain last Sept. He noted that the Church had and uncertainties, even though “Diversity and collaboration in contribution of the shrines that the success of the congress.
27-30. come to realize this objective recognizing Him will be the result welcoming or accompanying the they represent. “We want to express our
Bishop Cantillas, head of the over the past decades, and also of hearing and understanding pilgrims’ return.” For most participants from sincere gratitude to institutions
Commission for the Pastoral its understanding of shrines His Word and taking part in Shrine rectors from the the Philippines, the congress that by means of their economic
Care of Migrants and Itinerant has changed from a devotional the table of the Eucharist,” the Philippines who joined the has not only spiritually renewed support made possible great part
People of the Catholic Bishops practice to an area of pastoral archbishop said. congress include Sto. Niño in them of their roles as rectors of the organizational activity of
Conference of the Philippines, care. Conducted in various Cebu, Our Lady of Manaoag esp ec ia lly fr om t he ver y the II World Congress on the
also chaired one of the round “We have become more aware languages with simultaneous in Pangasinan, Our Lady of profound discourses presented Pastoral Care of Pilgrimages
table discussions during the of this possibility over the last translations, bishops, theologians Peñafrancia in Bicol, Our Lady by the resource persons, but and Shrines 2010,” it said in its
three-day ecclesiastical event. decades, in which we have and rectors of famous shrines of Antipolo in Rizal, Our Lady also permitted them to learn statement.
The congress was organized passed from a devotional practice from different parts of the of Guadalupe in Makati, Nuestra from the positive practices and The Rectors are all active
by the Pontifical Council for the to a pastoral of pilgrimage, world took turns in presenting Señora de Regla in Cebu, Jesus, innovations that other shrine members of the Association of the
Pastoral Care of Migrants and discovering that this moment their pastoral and theological the Way, the Truth and the rectors have created especially Shrine Rectors and Pilgrimage
Itinerant People in collaboration becomes an occasion for the reflection on topics such as Life in Pasay, Basilica of Poon from those coming from the more Promoters in the Philippines.
with the Archdiocese of renewal of faith and also for a first pilgrimage to the shrines as area Nazareno in Quiapo, Sacred globally prominent and renowned Besides participating in world
Santiago de Compostela, which evangelization,” he said. of the Word and of Celebration; as Heart of Jesus in Makati, St. Jude pilgrims’ destinations. congresses organized by the
coincidentally, is celebrating its Santiago de Compostela area of culture; as area of charity in Malacañang, Santo Sepolcro in According to the organizers, Vatican’s Pontifical Council for
holy year. Archbishop Julian Barrio Barrio and fraternity; and as area of San Pedro, Laguna, Our Lady of the congress’ participants came the Pastoral Care of Migrants and
Convened at the Galacia explained pilgrimage from ecumenical and inter-religious Fatima in Bulacan, and St. Joseph from 75 countries from five Itinerant People, the association
Congress and Exhibition Palace the context of its archdiocesan encounter. in Cubao. continents and had attracted 278 organizes regularly assembly for
after eighteen years since it was celebration of the holy year at At the conclusion of the The congress has given them bishops, priests, religious and its members and joins the Asian
first held in Rome in February 28, Santiago de Compostela which congress, Archbishop Vegliò the opportunity to meet and know lay people. congress held in various parts of
1992, the congress had discussed celebrates “The Way of Santiago” has encouraged his listeners to personally their counterparts of Besides Spain which hosted Asia. The recent Asian congress
varied topics that aimed precisely that leads to the Tomb of Apostle work “so that the pilgrimage the world’s famous shrines the event and had about 40 was held in Japan last year.

CFA garners six trophies at 32nd Mati launches Vocation month

Catholic Mass Media Awards appeal and relevance, and goes against the legal expert Fr. Joaquin Bernas, S.J. The
By Sr. Marietta Alo, OND

By Terry Hermano THE diocese of Mati launched its observance of Vocation

recently reported trend that the Philippine Asian Catholic Communicators Inc (ACCI), Month with a Eucharistic Mass and Benediction of the Blessed
komiks industry is fighting for survival. of which CFA is a member, hosted and Sacrament in three separate towns in the diocese.
ON the night of the 32nd Catholic Mass Elevation to the Hall of Fame is a distinct handed out the Cardinal Sin Book Awards in The diocesan vocation team has chosen three strategic venues for
Media Awards at the University of Sto. Tomas honor, but it also means that the multi- six categories. In the mass media categories the launching: Lupon (Oct. 8) for the gulf town area, Mati (Oct. 9) for
Auditorium on October 13, guests from the awarded CFA magazine and website can for radio and television, the major networks the central area, and Baganga (Oct. 10) for the eastern coastal area.
media industry were surprised when the no longer be entries for the same category again dominated the awards. Fr. Perfecto “Jojo” Urbuda, who headed the vocation team,
same people from one small group repeatedly this year and in future CMMAs. A previous But among the smaller media players, decided on the tri-venue setup in order to enable a wider, more
went up the stage to claim their awards. Hall of Fame Award was received in 2008 by CFA stands out with the most number of convenient participation on the part of young people, the academe
The recipients belonged to a non- a CFA staff writer/editor for comics stories awards received. CFA has worked long and the religious sector in the vicinities far from the diocesan
mainstream media organization called the published in Gospel Komiks. and hard to maximize limited resources in center where the annual launching used to take place.
Communication Foundation for Asia. the innovative use of the media for a big The vocation theme, “Vocation Awareness in Prayer”,
CFA’s total that evening: six trophies. It The Catholic Mass Media Awards cause: what the Church calls “integral human was explained during the Mass. A program was also held to
was honored with two trophies for the CMMA Established in 1978, the Catholic Mass development.” introduce the members of different religious institutes, who in
Hall of Fame: for Gospel Komiks, three-time Media Awards (CMMA) are intended “to It has neither printing press nor radio-TV turn delivered short messages to those present.
winner for Best Children’s Magazine, and reward as well as to pay tribute to media broadcast facilities that the industry giants Explaining the vocation theme taken from the gospel context
for www.cfamedia.org, the Best Website projects that enhance the total human do. And yet for over the past 40 years, CFA of Luke 1:16-19, wherein the Virgin Mary “treasured all these
winner for three consecutive years from development of the Filipino audience through has published various types of educational messages and continually pondered over them”, Fr. Urbuda said
2007-2009. CFA also bagged materials, produced two full- the passage also served as reminder that October is the Marian
this year’s trophies for Best length developmental movies, month of the Holy Rosary, and Mary will help each person
Children’s Magazine (Baby several radio drama and TV ponder on his/her vocation in life, particularly in responding
Jesus), Best Youth Magazine series for values education, as to the call of Jesus for more workers in his vineyard.
(Gospel K Magazine) and Best well as video documentaries The launching activities drew in 15 visiting vocation promoters
Comics Story (Noel de Leon’s on social issues. Founded in from Davao, Tagum, Manila, Cebu, Bohol, Iloilo, South Cotabato,
“My Favorite Christmas,” 1968 by Fr. Cornelio Lagerwey, Surigao and Basilan, along with representatives of existing 13
published in Pambata). The a Dutch MSC priest, CFA’s religious institutes in the diocese of Mati.
last trophy, for Best Secular origins go back to 1960, when its The vocation promoters avidly shared about their religious
Music Album, went to Mga parent organization launched communities and encouraged prospects to get in touch with them
Awit ng Mga Bagong Bida, the publication of the Philippine through their given or posted addresses or mobile contact numbers.
which is a unique collection of edition of the Catholic Digest. In Mati on the 2nd day, the visiting vocation promoters
the ten best songs composed Today, CFA remains a lay experienced a post-lunch, two-hour battery of spontaneous radio
by students for the National non-profit organization with a interviews over DXHM to reach out to the remotest listener.
Contributed photo

Youth Songwriting Contest Filipino MSC priest, Fr. Filoteo Theexchangeswiththeinterviewer,Sr.Maita,revealedcongregational

for Good Governance, a major Pelingon, as its president, and apostolic goals that focused on education, catechetics, healing, renewal,
CFA project in late 2009. with publishing as its main reparation, family and life, pastoral services, sustainable agriculture,
CFA also had five finalists operation. The Foundation and guidance and shelter for abused girls and women.
in other categories: 1) Best produces six bi-monthly After the radio talks, the celebration of the Mass followed
Children’s Story (by Cara educational and faith-based at the St. Therese gym participated in by parishioners from
Funk in Gospel Komiks magazines, which are used by various parishes, and students, teachers and administrators
Magazine); 2) Best Comic Story (one story the competent and professional use of mass thousands of elementary and high school from private and public schools.
by Margie Cruz in Gospel Komiks Magazine media techniques.” The theme of this year’s classrooms all over the country. CFA’s other Seminarian Ronnie Orellanida with Joel Ouano rendered a
and 3) another story by Jericho Natividad, CMMA program was “New Media at the productions — its books, radio dramas and cheery, jovial co-emceeing at the musico-cultural programs after
also in Gospel Komiks Magazine); 4) Best Service of the Word.” Manila Archbishop television programs — have also received every benediction led by deacon Rev. Rey Armasa.
Children’s Magazine—Jesus Magazine; 5) Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales, who is also trophies and citations from CMMA. CFA Bishop Patricio H. Alo, in his vocation message, posed a
Best Youth Magazine—Pambata. the CMMA Honorary Chairman, gave the has also developed expertise in new media, challenge to follow the example of the Little Flower, the “Way
The CMMA Hall of Fame trophy for opening message while Bishop Honesto making use not only of its award-winning of Spiritual Childhood” of St. Therese of the Child Jesus, the
Gospel Komiks comes after many years Ongtioco of the Diocese of Cubao gave the website, but also of social networks like patroness of the missions.
of garnering more than a dozen awards, keynote talk. The Catholic Mass Media YouTube, Livestream and Facebook. And He explained that although St. Therese never went out of the
citations and finalist nominations for its short Awards Foundation rolled out a briskly-paced year after year, with the help of grants convent to serve in the active missions, she became a patron
stories, comic strips and for the magazine program to accommodate a growing number from its donor partners, this development of the missions through her “evangelical simplicity, childlike
itself. Gospel Komiks is CFA’s most widely of contest categories. As program host that communication organization in Sta. Mesa reliance on the grace of God, spirit of sacrifice, and the practice
recognized publication. Launched in 1980, night, the University of Sto. Tomas, which is trains hundreds of Church and civil society of love and compassion towards her companions.”
it leads the way in popularizing Sunday celebrating its quadricentennial anniversary members in the use of new and traditional He also urged everyone to respect life and to follow the ruling
Gospel readings, translating them into next year, presented entertaining intermission media for their missions and advocacies. of the Church with regard to artificial contraceptives that are
contemporary illustrated stories. Its English numbers featuring its best talents, including Although receiving awards was exciting, mostly abortifacient.
and Filipino editions reach more than a its internationally awarded choir and the well- CFA officers agreed this was ‘icing on the In the end, Sr. Julie Ganza, CM, a Carmelite Missionary, expressed
hundred thousand subscribers nationwide, known Salinggawi Dance troupe. cake.’ “The most rewarding part of our thanks for the all-out support of everyone, including the host families
most of them elementary school students. During the same program, an individual job,” said the executive director of CFA, “is that volunteered to house the visiting vocation promoters.
Its longevity is a testament to its enduring Serviam Award was given to writer and pursuing a mission we believe in.”
 Statements
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 22
October 25 - November 7, 2010
B5

Letter of His Holiness Unity Statement

Give the land to

Benedict XVI to Seminarians
Dear Seminarians, bread which we receive as Christians in the it. Certainly, the subjects which you are
the tiller that all
may have food
When in December 1944 I was drafted for Church—is the Eucharistic Lord himself. In studying can often seem far removed from the
military service, the company commander this petition of the Our Father, then, we pray practice of the Christian life and the pastoral
asked each of us what we planned to do in the that he may daily give us “our” bread; and ministry. Yet it is completely mistaken to start WE, leaders and members of faith-based communities add
future. I answered that I wanted to become a that it may always nourish our lives; that the questioning their practical value by asking: our united voice to the demand to address the inequity long
Catholic priest. The lieutenant replied: “Then Risen Christ, who gives himself to us in the Will this be helpful to me in the future? Will prevailing over the workers of Hacienda Luisita (HL).
you ought to look for something else. In the Eucharist, may truly shape the whole of our it be practically or pastorally useful? We affirm that devoid of all technical parlance, the issue
new Germany priests are no longer needed”. lives by the radiance of his divine love. The The point is not simply to learn evidently is the quest for social justice that must be addressed through
I knew that this “new Germany” was already proper celebration of the Eucharist involves useful things, but to understand and genuine land reform. The decades-long problem in the HL has
coming to an end, and that, after the enormous knowing, understanding and loving the appreciate the internal structure of the faith been characterized by unrest. We remember the tragic massacre
devastation which that madness had brought Church’s liturgy in its concrete form. In the as a whole, so that it can become a response in November 2004. We remember those leaders and supporters
upon the country, priests would be needed liturgy we pray with the faithful of every to people’s questions, which on the surface of the farmers who were victims of extrajudicial killings,
more than ever. Today the situation is age – the past, the present and the future are change from one generation to another yet among them two clerics—The Most Rev. Albert Ramento and
completely changed. In different ways, though, joined in one great chorus of prayer. As I can ultimately remain the same. For this reason Fr. William Tadena.
many people nowadays also think that the state from personal experience, it is inspiring it is important to move beyond the changing We view the Compromise Agreement as flawed given the
Catholic priesthood is not a “job” for the future, to learn how it all developed, what a great questions of the moment in order to grasp questionable processes and highly inequitable terms that are
but one that belongs more to the past. experience of faith is reflected in the structure the real questions, and so to understand how slowly coming into light. For one, the CA arbitrarily allots
You, dear friends, have decided to enter of the Mass, and how it has been shaped by the answers are real answers. It is important one third of the remaining 4,102 hectares of agricultural land
the seminary and to prepare for priestly the prayer of many generations. to have a thorough knowledge of sacred for distribution through the Stock Distribution Option (SDO)
ministry in the Catholic Church in spite of 3. The sacrament of Penance is also Scripture as a whole, in its unity as the Old scheme instead of the outright distribution of the 6,500-hectare
such opinions and objections. You have done important. It teaches me to see myself as and the New Testaments: the shaping of texts, sugar plantation to the 10,000 farm workers. Furthermore, the
a good thing. Because people will always God sees me, and it forces me to be honest their literary characteristics, the process by CA upholds the onerous terms of the SDO scheme. Again,
have need of God, even in an age marked with myself. It leads me to humility. The which they came to form the canon of sacred stripped of its technical language, the SDO is essentially
by technical mastery of the world and Curé of Ars once said: “You think it makes books, their dynamic inner unity, a unity non-distributive as it allows landlords to retain control over
globalization: they will always need the God no sense to be absolved today, because you which may not be immediately apparent but the property thereby failing to improve the socio-economic
who has revealed himself in Jesus Christ, the know that tomorrow you will commit the which in fact gives the individual texts their conditions of its supposedly beneficiaries. The SDO distorts
God who gathers us together in the universal same sins over again. Yet,” he continues, full meaning. It is important to be familiar the essence of land reform, which is land distribution.
Church in order to learn with him and through “God instantly forgets tomorrow’s sins in with the Fathers and the great Councils in “The earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof” (Psalm 24:10).
him life’s true meaning and in order to uphold order to give you his grace today.” Even which the Church appropriated, through This passage is a strong reminder that the earth’s resources
and apply the standards of true humanity. when we have to struggle continually with faith-filled reflection, the essential statements including land are to be shared by all as we are all called to be
Where people no longer perceive God, life the same failings, it is important to resist the of Scripture. I could easily go on. What we stewards. Those who toil the land to produce our food must
grows empty; nothing is ever enough. People coarsening of our souls and the indifference call dogmatic theology is the understanding be recognized and given their due as responsible stewards.
then seek escape in euphoria and violence; which would simply accept that this is the of the individual contents of the faith in their They too, deserve prosperity. We also believe in the exposition
these are the very things that increasingly way we are. It is important to keep pressing unity, indeed, in their ultimate simplicity: that “. . . the right to private property is subordinated to the
threaten young people. God is alive. He has forward, without scrupulosity, in the grateful each single element is, in the end, only an right to common use, to the fact that the goods are meant for
created every one of us and he knows us all. awareness that God forgives us ever anew— unfolding of our faith in the one God who everyone” (Laborem Exercens No. 14).
He is so great that he has revealed himself We laud and support any or all initiatives to immediately
has time for the little to us and continues resolve the festering problem in our country where landlords
things in our lives: to do so. I do not continue to hold large tracts of land while the vast majority
“Every hair of your need to point out of the peasants and farm workers remain mired in poverty
head is numbered”. the importance of and misery.
God is alive, and he knowing the essential In the name of justice, we call on President Benigno Aquino,
needs people to serve issues of moral III not to feign neutrality on this issue. His silence and inaction
him and bring him to theology and Catholic sends a message of implicit endorsement to the compromise
others. It does makes social teaching. agreement orchestrated by the Cojuangco-owned HLI. It is
sense to become a The importance within his power as president to ensure that social justice
priest: the world needs nowadays of prevail in his family-owned hacienda.
priests, pastors, today, ecumenical theology,
tomorrow and always, and of a knowledge of Most Rev. Broderick Pabillo, D.D.
until the end of time. the different Christian CBCP-NASSA
The seminary communities, is
is a community obvious; as is the Most Rev. Deogracias Iniguez, D.D.
journeying towards need for a basic Co-Chairperson, Ecumenical Bishops’ Forum
priestly ministry. I introduction to the
have said something great religions, to say Rev. Fr. Rex RB Reyes
very important here: nothingofphilosophy: General Secretary, National Council of Churches in the Phils.
one does not become the understanding of
a priest on one’s own. that human process Most Rev. Godofredo David, IFI
The “community of of questioning and Supreme Bishop, Iglesia Filipina Independiente
disciples” is essential, searching to which
the fellowship of those faith seeks to respond. Rt. Rev. Ephraim S. Fajutagana, IFI
who desire to serve the But you should also General Secretary, Iglesia Filipina Independiente
greater Church. In this learn to understand
letter I would like to and—dare I say it— Bp. Solito Toquero
point out – thinking to love canon law, Co-Chairperson, Ecumenical Bishops’ Forum
back to my own time in appreciating how
the seminary – several necessary it is and Rt. Rev. Joselito T. Cruz, IFI
elements which I valuing its practical Bishop of Rizal and Pampanga, Iglesia Filipina Independiente
consider important applications: a society
for these years of your without law would Rt. Rev. Pedro Ojascastro
journeying. be a society without
1. Anyone who rights. Law is the Rt. Rev. Ronelio
wishes to become a condition of love. I
priest must be first will not go on with Rev. Eleutero J. Revollido, IFI
and foremost a “man this list, but I simply
www.brianbcatholic.files.wordpress.com

Rector, Aglipay Central Theological Seminary

of God”, to use the say once more: love
expression of Saint the study of theology
Paul (1 Tim 6:11). For and carry it out in the
us God is not some clear realization that
abstract hypothesis;
he is not some stranger
theologyisanchoredin
the living community Open Letter to President
Benigno Simeon Aquino
who left the scene after of the Church, which,
the “big bang”. God with her authority, is
has revealed himself not the antithesis of

III
in Jesus Christ. In the theological science
face of Jesus Christ we see the face of God. In yet also without the indifference that might but its presupposition. Cut off from the
his words we hear God himself speaking to lead us to abandon altogether the struggle for believing Church, theology would cease to be
us. It follows that the most important thing holiness and self-improvement. Moreover, by itself and instead it would become a medley
in our path towards priesthood and during letting myself be forgiven, I learn to forgive of different disciplines lacking inner unity.
Dear Mr. President,
the whole of our priestly lives is our personal others. In recognizing my own weakness, I 6. Your years in the seminary should also
relationship with God in Jesus Christ. The grow more tolerant and understanding of be a time of growth towards human maturity.
We, the convenors of the Ephphata Forum and Religious
priest is not the leader of a sort of association the failings of my neighbor. It is important for the priest, who is called to
Discernment Group, greet you once again as you complete
whose membership he tries to maintain and 4. I urge you to retain an appreciation for accompany others through the journey of life
your first one hundred days in office. We trust that our
expand. He is God’s messenger to his people. popular piety, which is different in every up to the threshold of death, to have the right
first letter to you dated August 5, 2010 and received by
He wants to lead them to God and in this way to culture yet always remains very similar, for balance of heart and mind, reason and feeling,
Undersecretary Ma. Lourdes Ong, of the Presidential
foster authentic communion between all men the human heart is ultimately one and the body and soul, and to be humanly integrated. To
Assistant Office of the Special Assistant to the President
and women. That is why it is so important, same. Certainly, popular piety tends towards the theological virtues the Christian tradition has
has reached you. As stated in that letter, we considered it
dear friends, that you learn to live in constant the irrational, and can at times be somewhat always joined the cardinal virtues derived from
good that you called the people your “bosses” and declared
intimacy with God. When the Lord tells us to superficial. Yet it would be quite wrong to human experience and philosophy, and, more
that you wanted to lead us in the path of Righteousness, “sa
“pray constantly”, he is obviously not asking dismiss it. Through that piety, the faith has generally, from the sound ethical tradition of
daang matuwid”. In Isaiah we hear this reference to making
us to recite endless prayers, but urging us entered human hearts and become part of humanity. Paul makes this point this very clearly
the way straight (Is 40:4) so that the glory of God may be
never to lose our inner closeness to God. the common patrimony of sentiments and to the Philippians: “Finally, brothers, whatever
seen. Luke takes up this theme where Jesus quotes Isaiah
Praying means growing in this intimacy. customs, shaping the life and emotions of the is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just,
in his mission statement (Lk 4: 18-19): this is the challenge
So it is important that our day should community. Popular piety is thus one of the whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever
for one to be righteous and make the way straight:
begin and end with prayer; that we listen Church’s great treasures. The faith has taken is commendable, if there is any excellence and
1. Preach good news to the poor: this means poverty
to God as the Scriptures are read; that we on flesh and blood. Certainly popular piety if there is anything worthy of praise, think
alleviation. Schemes such as the Conditional Cash Transfer
share with him our desires and our hopes, always needs to be purified and refocused, about these things” (4:8). This also involves
Program (CCT) have been shown to develop mendicancy
our joys and our troubles, our failures and yet it is worthy of our love and it truly makes the integration of sexuality into the whole
and do nothing about the underlying causes of poverty. The
our thanks for all his blessings, and thus keep us into the “People of God”. personality. Sexuality is a gift of the Creator
money could be better spent creating jobs and improving
him ever before us as the point of reference 5. Above all, your time in the seminary yet it is also a task which relates to a person’s
basic services such as health and education. We are
for our lives. In this way we grow aware of is also a time of study. The Christian faith growth towards human maturity. When it is not
concerned that there is no budget for the National Food
our failings and learn to improve, but we has an essentially rational and intellectual integrated within the person, sexuality becomes
Authority (NFA). If instead the budget was increased, the
also come to appreciate all the beauty and dimension. Were it to lack that dimension, it banal and destructive. Today we can see many
farmers could sell their produce at a fair price and many
goodness which we daily take for granted would not be itself. Paul speaks of a “standard examples of this in our society.
would no longer need dole outs such as the CCT.
and so we grow in gratitude. With gratitude of teaching” to which we were entrusted in Recently we have seen with great dismay
2. Set prisoners free: we commend your asking Dept.
comes joy for the fact that God is close to us Baptism (Rom 6:17). All of you know the that some priests disfigured their ministry by
of Justice Secretary Leila De Lima to review the case of
and that we can serve him. words of Saint Peter which the medieval sexually abusing children and young people.
the Morong 43, but the 388 political prisoners, including
2. For us God is not simply Word. In the theologians saw as the justification for a Instead of guiding people to greater human
the illegally detained 43 health workers should be freed
sacraments he gives himself to us in person, rational and scientific theology: “Always be maturity and setting them an example, their
immediately. We are concerned at the continuing arrests,
through physical realities. At the heart of ready to make your defense to anyone who abusive behavior caused great damage for
particularly of peasant leaders on trumped up charges. We
our relationship with God and our way of demands from you an ‘accounting’ (logos) for which we feel profound shame and regret.
call on you to be a righteous person and release all political
life is the Eucharist. Celebrating it devoutly, the hope that is in you” (1 Pet 3:15). Learning As a result of all this, many people, perhaps
prisoners. We are extremely concerned that 16 leaders have
and thus encountering Christ personally, how to make such a defense is one of the even some of you, might ask whether it is
been extra judicially killed since you took office. This shows
should be the centre of all our days. In Saint primary responsibilities of your years in good to become a priest; whether the choice
that the culture of impunity implicating some members of the
Cyprian’s interpretation of the Gospel prayer, the seminary. I can only plead with you: Be of celibacy makes any sense as a truly human
military continues unabated. To pave the “daang matuwid”
“Give us this day our daily bread”, he says committed to your studies! Take advantage way of life. Yet even the most reprehensible
Open / B7
among other things that “our” bread—the of your years of study! You will not regret Letter / B7
 Ref lections
CBCP Monitor
B6 Vol. 14 No. 22
October 25 - November 7, 2010

Striving after Life after Death

32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time – Year C (Luke 20:27-38) November 7, 2010
By Msgr. Lope C. Robredillo, in the belief that they would still serve point, they asked Jesus whose wife the
SThD them in the next life; hence, the grave woman would be in the resurrection
of kings were provided with rooms. Of (Luke 20:28-33). In response to their
course, in our time, there may be some question, Jesus used two arguments—
AS a consequence of the September 11, people who do not believe that one and a third may be added—that would
2001 terror attacks on the United States survives after physical death, but one have been convincing to the Jews. The
when three hijacked commercial planes can be sure that even they devise means first one was drawn from the nature of
toppled the twin-towers in Manhattan to perpetuate their memory. They will resurrection life. He distinguished two
and wrecked havoc on the Pentagon, not want to die like dogs. modes of human life—earthly existence
the only Superpower in the world That there are individuals who and resurrection life. In the former, it
launched a large-scale operations deny that there is life after death—this is essential that men and women marry
against Osama bin Laden, his al is nothing new under the sun, of to assure perpetuation of species in
Qaida organization, and the Taliban course. In Israel at the time of Jesus, face of the inevitability of death. In
rulers of Afghanistan, who were being the Sadducees, a religio-political the latter, procreation is no longer
blamed for the suicide attacks. The “party” largely drawn from the priestly appropriate because all will live like
US campaign was ostensibly directed class of the Jewish society, but which angels, and the problem of successive
toward destroying international included many lay aristocrats, were marital relationships is thus rendered
terrorism, but from another point of such. They did not accept teachings irrelevant.
view, the campaign could also be seen not found in the five books of Moses, The second argument was taken from
as aimed at the survival of America like the resurrection of the dead, a passage of a book that was acceptable
as a nation. Survival, after all, is one which represents a later development to the Sadducees, because it was part
of the basic instincts of women, men, in the Jewish faith. They rejected the of the Pentateuch. After all, it was from
peoples and nations. oral tradition of the Pharisees, which the Pentateuch that they tried to justify
Indeed, that we do everything within included that belief. For them, if God their case. According to Moses, whose
our possibilities to assure that our rewards a human person, he does so authority the Sadducees accepted, God
health does not fail, that we normally in the present life, and they felt that is a God of the living, not of the dead
look at suicide with repulsion and not, they were blessed by God, what with (Exod 3:6), and if the Pentateuch calls
despite the enormous problems we face, their position of power and privilege God the Father of Abraham, Isaac and
as a good exit (except for a few who in economy and in social life. There Jacob, it follows that the threesome
some would judge as not in their normal can be no reward after death since are alive, not dead. But as the three
state of mind)—that merely indicates there is, they claimed, no after life. In have died long ago, God must have
that we all love life, however miserable today’s Gospel (Luke 20:27-38), Luke resurrected them, if Moses’ claim,
it might be, and we wish to survive. In mentions them for the first and the last which the Sadducees submitted to, is
fact, many of us cling to life so much time. He portrays them as coming to true. The 1st Reading (2 Macc 7:1-2.9-
that, even in the face of the inevitability Jesus with a mocking question with the 14) puts forward another argument
of death, we devise means by which intention of ridiculing the teaching of for resurrection. It raises the question
to prolong it: operation, transplant, the resurrection, which Jesus shared of justice. When Antiochus Epiphanes
expensive medicine, to mention a with the Pharisees. systematically persecuted the Jews,
few. It may be noticed, too, that we To demonstrate how absurd that introducing Hellenistic beliefs and
construct monuments, sire children very belief was, some Sadducees cited practices in the process, many Jews
and create masterpieces in the hope a hypothetical story that reflected the were martyred for their opposition
that, consciously or not, our name and practice of the time—the story of a to his program of Hellenization. The
honor will live on long after we have woman who was able to marry seven death of these martyrs, however, gave
expired. Our human desire to live on brothers in succession, since, according rise to the question of how God could
and be remembered by perpetually is to the stipulation of the levirate law give justice to their lives, as they were
probably inseparable from our belief (Deut 25:5-10), if a husband died murdered for their faith in Yahweh.
that there should be life after death. The childless, his brother would have to The answer found in the belief that
pyramids of Egypt, judged from their marry his wife. For the Sadducees, God would vindicate them in the
the levirate law made the belief in the resurrection of the just. Thus, the
www.sugardoodle.net

structure, function and content, testify

to that belief in survival after death. resurrection ridiculous, for it assumes fourth of the seven brothers who were
In some countries in Africa, time was that there would be a fight in heaven tortured with whips and scourges by
when the wives, slaves and servants over women to whom brothers have the king to force them to eat pork in
of kings were buried alive with them been given in marriage. To stress their Striving / B7

Bo Sanchez

SOULFOOD Bishop Pat Alo

ENCOUNTERS
Quality time isn’t enough
I’VE also spent many hours talking with The other night, I went home totally this way. A day will come when he’s all grown
parents whose kids are drifting away from God exhausted. I told the family I was going to up and he won’t jump on me anymore. (At
and hanging out with the wrong crowd.
I know my next statement is very
sleep early.
But after I dozed off on bed, my five-year
least, I hope he won’t!) While we can play
together, I’ll do it. A common sense
approach
simplistic. old son entered the room and wanted to jump I’ve said “No” to my kids when they ask
But bear with me. on a trampoline. for toys.
I believe kids get into trouble usually In his mind, my body was his giant I’ve said “No” to my kids when they ask
because parents didn’t spend enough time trampoline! for junk food.
with them. Parents failed to unlock the
greatness of their children by not spending
both quantity and quality time with them.
He’d step on me, walk on me, and jump
on me.
A part of me wanted to say, “Francis, not
I’ve said “No” to my kids when they ask
for gadgets.
But to this day, I’ve never said “No” when
(To the RH Bill)
All is not lost. now. Daddy is really tired.” they ask for my time. No matter how busy THE discussions on the RH Bill issue have so far attained
Reach out to them now. But the words couldn’t leave my lips. or how tired I am. national attention, as it concerns life, specifically the life of the
Tell them you love them. Go out of your Because I knew that a time would come I urge you: Give 10,000 hours to your kids unborn. Since it is one prime right, I guess it should. However
way and spend time with them. when he’ll no longer be playing with me in and you unlock their greatness. we must put first things first. Many times the discussions
drift towards over-population, lack of food and classrooms
Fr. Francis Ongkingco or other educational facilities, the poverty issues and others

WHATEVER
connected to above perspectives.
First of all, the basic rights of man are a non-negotiable
element that cannot be excluded—namely, life, liberty and
property. The table of life is not intended for control of the
guests to life, but rather to increase the food for people to have

Life embraces enough to eat, plus other needed facilities. As a principle, we

have to consider that things were made for man, not man to
be subjugated to things. God’s guidance through His infallible
word can direct us in the right way of acting.
Let’s remember that God can’t lie nor be mistaken. He had
“FATHER! Rosina is dying,” the I was a bit ashamed to see that for them and some companions. fine.” It is accompanied by silence said it clear: “I tell you not to worry about your life: What are
staff assistant informed me. Rosina’s parents—though still After the Mass, I embraced my and heart-prayer, embracing the we to eat? or about your body: What are we to put on? For
I was about to cancel a previous awake—were already tucked brother to greet him. sorrow of the other. your life is more than food and the body more than clothing.
engagement to attend to her in bed. When they learned I This eventful embrace is unique. Look at the crows: they neither sow nor reap: they have no
when another priest said he could had come unannounced, they It makes the joy and love increase *** storehouses and no barns; yet God feeds them. How much
administer the last sacraments immediately got up. in the persons embracing each Of life’s many embraces, these more important are you than the birds! Which of you for
to her. I extended my condolences (or other. It expresses in gestures our are perhaps the most common all his worrying can make himself a bit taller? And if you
Rosina has been battling against congratulations, as Rosina’s dad gratitude, when we say, “Thank ones. We can be sure that our are not able to control such a little thing, why do you worry
cancer for the past three years. I later corrected me because they you for being God’s blessing Lord Himself was quite familiar about the rest? Look at the wild flowers: they do not spin or
was giving her communion often now had someone in Heaven to to us!” with them, and may have weave; yet I tell you, even Solomon with all his wealth was
because her dwindling immune pray for them) to the couple. The expressed them on countless not clothed as one of these. But if in the fields God so clothes
system didn’t allow her to go out father repeatedly thanked me *** occasions to share the joy of the grass which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into
very often. She was accompanied and the other priests who took The man’s once successful and others, to comfort the suffering the oven, how much more will he clothe you, people of little
by her parents who, being both care of his daughter. comfortable life had taken its and dying. faith. As for you: do not set your heart on what you are to
quite advanced in age, also had His wife came out a little later. worse turn. It is not, as others But there is one embrace that eat and drink; stop worrying. Let all the nations of the world
difficulty going to Mass. She didn’t bother to come out superstitiously conceive it to be, I believe “embraces” all, and run after these things; your Father knows that you need them.
That same day, after receiving without her walking stroller. I a change of one’s fortune. Things this I’ve learned from Rosina’s Seek rather the Kingdom and these things will be given to
the viaticum and anointing of the observed, at least it seemed to in life happen because God allows mother. I thought that I was you as well” (Lk. 12: 22-31).
sick, Rosina took a one-way ticket me, her grief. I could not think them for a mysterious reason. the one who was supposed to Even St. Teresa expresses her reasoning this way: “If God
to Heaven. Her joy was engraved of any other way to console her We have to simply learn to live console her, but it was I who was provided for us in the past and until now is providing for us,
by the distinctive gentle smile on than to embrace her. it without abandoning our faith the one being consoled. there is no reason to doubt that he will provide for us in the
her face when she died peacefully. An embrace of consolation and love for Him. This is the embrace of future.”
This is what really matters in life: usually comes with your having “Father, this has happened abandonment. It is surrendering
going to Heaven. to rub the grieving person’s back. with my relatives… and our oneself to God’s will, because
That very same evening, as I As if to gesture our desire of daughter is sick of cancer… I He knows more than we do and
returned from a late confession letting all that hurt and sorrow have no more money for her His ways –though sometimes
shift, it occurred to me to at least come out. Instead, to my surprise, treatment…,” he started crying. difficult to embrace– are always
visit her parents to console them. she was the one doing this to me After listening to him and in view of our own happiness
Their neighbors weren’t while saying: “Everything will be giving him a bit of advice, I then and perfection.
accustomed to seeing me visit fine, Rosina is in Heaven!” This told him, “…can I give you an We must learn to embrace –with
their house at such a late time. was the week’s first embrace. embrace.” a disposition of abandonment–
I overheard someone whisper, “I would really appreciate that, many of life’s joys and trials. It
“Perhaps, Father doesn’t know that *** Father,” he replied. is only in this way that we shall
Rosina already passed away.” The second embrace for the It was a brief but warm learn to embrace God’s will here
“Oh, yes,” I replied mentally, week took place during my embrace. A compassionate on earth, and then one day when
“I know she has, and she’s now brother’s birthday. He and his embrace that doesn’t require we shall receive the Father’s
in Heaven.” wife attended a Mass I celebrated one to say, “Everything will be Heavenly embrace.
 Social Concerns
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 22
October 25 - November 7, 2010
B7

Those who choose to go on mission

By Fr. Shay Cullen mission in life. it because they know in their
These people are on a heart and conscience it is the
mission at home and abroad, right thing and good thing
IN October, Mission Sunday in their own communities to do and to find peace and
is a day to remember the helping the disabled, the fulfillment.
thousands of courageous sick, the homeless and these They may not even have a
dedicated people who have dedicated people express religious belief or belong to
chosen to do something to in action a belief in the a church but are spiritually
help others, less fortunate dignity and value of the motivated whether they are
than them. They are people human person. They act with aware of it or not. Such love
who appreciate all they have compassion and concern and is not material. It was brought
in life and go out beyond a willingness to share their into the world in a powerful
their insular lives and family, resources, skills, time and and enduring way by Jesus
to share with others and to effort to help others live a more of Nazareth whose life of
give back what they have dignified life. Their mission is sacrifice, teaching, friendship,
received and work to make to wipe away tears, support and self-sacrificing death still
this a happier and better the depressed and lonely, inspire millions of people.

www.zestybliss.files.wordpress.com
world. They are the relief they struggle for justice and His spirit never died but lives
workers, the volunteers, the peace, they bring food and on today in those who have
fund raisers, campaigners, relief and help to the dying chosen to take up a mission
the medical people and and bring development and to serve the downtrodden,
development workers, all health services and a better the oppressed and unjustly
are agents of change and quality of life to millions of deprived.
compassion working alone or people. They help people to They are the brave and
through secular agencies. be empowered, enable them courageous that challenge
Then there are the to help themselves be self- the forces of evil that exploit
missionaries that serve reliant and lead sustainable and abuse the weak and not to be served, but to live life the poor. He was ambushed by a death squad.
through the Church lives. the vulnerable, the women to the fullest for others. I know and shot by armed men. It is We recall the words of
organizations and missionary Others help people by and children, and risk their many who have died for their alleged that on 16 June 2008 at Archbishop Oscar Romero of
societies. Countless thousands their mission to save the lives to protect them from mission. Let us remember one a military ceremony with the El Salvador, himself shot and
over the past years have left environment, to nurture the rapists and abusers, the who represents the thousands Catubig Brigade, the President murdered as he raised the cup
family and friends and gone planet and to protect all living criminal coddlers, the corrupt who died while on mission for of the Philippines that time, at mass. “Even when they call
to remote countries and lived creatures. All are the unsung politicians and money moguls their people. President Gloria Macapagal- us mad, when they call us
incredibly dedicated lives of heroes, they don’t receive that cause the suffering of This past September was the Arroyo referred to Fr. Lucero subversives and communists
hardship and deprivation and fame and publicity, they work others. one year anniversary of the as “that communist priest” and all the epithets they put on
sought no reward and asked quietly day by day and make Those on mission dedicate death of Fr. Cecilio Lucero, a in front of General Arthur us, we know we only preach
no recompense. Their lives of present that love for others themselves to integrity, brave man on a human rights Tabaquero and other military the subversive witness of the
selfless service are a challenge which is the highest form of honesty and truth. They give mission in Catubig, Northern officials. By September that Beatitudes, which have turned
to the rest of us seeking a unselfish self-giving. Some do their resources to serve and Samar, defending the rights of year, Fr. Lucero was murdered everything upside down.”

Letter / B5 Open / B5

abuse cannot discredit the priestly profession. Often it grows within the tolerance, not only bearing with, but also the perpetrators of all extra judicial of national sovereignty, there will be
mission, which remains great and pure. Communities, particularly within the enriching one another, so that each of you killings must be held accountable no true development for the people
Thank God, all of us know exemplary Movements, which favour a communal will be able to contribute his own gifts and the victims compensated. We and no peace.
priests, men shaped by their faith, who encounter with Christ and his Church, to the whole, even as all serve the same are disappointed that Oplan Bantay Finally, as the survey shows, you
bear witness that one can attain to an spiritual experiences and joy in the Church, the same Lord. This school of Laya has been extended since it has retain much popularity among the
authentic, pure and mature humanity service of the faith. It also matures in very tolerance, indeed, of mutual acceptance been documented that this Oplan has people. We call on you to follow
in this state and specifically in the life of personal encounters with the nobility and and mutual understanding in the unity given rise to the continuing human Jesus who sided with the poor and the
celibacy. Admittedly, what has happened the wretchedness of human existence. As of Christ’s Body, is an important part of rights violations. oppressed. Let them be your “bosses”:
should make us all the more watchful and a result, candidates for the priesthood your years in the seminary. 3. Proclaim a Jubilee year: central to they will continue to support you for as
attentive, precisely in order to examine often live on very different spiritual Dear seminarians, with these few the jubilee year in Lev 25, is the breaking long as they know you are really trying
ourselves earnestly, before God, as we continents. It can be difficult to recognize lines I have wanted to let you know up of landed monopolies into small to be righteous, as we, too, shall try.
make our way towards priesthood, so the common elements of one’s future how often I think of you, especially in family farms and providing services so As stated in our first letter we are
as to understand whether this is his mandate and its spiritual path. For this these difficult tim es, and how close that the farmers become productive. We ready to pursue with you “ang daang
will for me. It is the responsibility of very reason, the seminary is important I am to you in prayer. Please pray for regret that until now you have failed to matuwid” but there is much to be done
your confessor and your superiors to as a community which advances above me, that I may exercise my ministry effect the distribution of their land to the to make this a reality.
accompany you and help you along this and beyond differences of spirituality. well, as long as the Lord may wish. I tenants of Hacienda Luisita, but have
path of discernment. It is an essential The Movements are a magnificent thing. entrust your journey of preparation for instead tolerated the maneuverings In behalf of the Ephphata
part of your journey to practise the You know how much I esteem them and priesthood to the maternal protection of family members to undermine the Convenors,
fundamental human virtues, with your love them as a gift of the Holy Spirit to the of Mary Most Holy, whose home was social justice provisions of land reform
gaze fixed on the God who has revealed Church. Yet they must be evaluated by a school of goodness and of grace. May in the Constitution. Fr. Wilfredo Dulay, MJ
himself in Christ, and to let yourselves their openness to what is truly Catholic, Almighty God bless you all, the Father, 4. Be a peacemaker: this means Fr. Gregorio Obejas, OSM
be purified by him ever anew. to the life of the whole Church of Christ, the Son and the Holy Spirit. resuming Peace Talks with the Fr. Quirico Pedregosa, Jr., OP
7. The origins of a priestly vocation are which for all her variety still remains one. From the Vatican, 18 October 2010, the National Democratic Front of the Sr. Pat Fox, NDS
nowadays more varied and disparate The seminary is a time when you learn Feast of Saint Luke the Evangelist. Philippines (NDFP) and the Moro Fr. Tito Maratas, MSC
than in the past. Today the decision to with one another and from one another. Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). Fr. Jose Dizon
become a priest often takes shape after In community life, which can at times be Yours devotedly in the Lord, Unless the basic causes of poverty
one has already entered upon a secular difficult, you should learn generosity and BENEDICTUS PP. XVI are addressed within the framework 17 October 2010

Striving / B6

violation of God’s law says: “It Our resurrection is thus linked

is my choice to die at the hands with the resurrection of Jesus:

CBCPMonitor Name _________________________________________________

(Family Name) (Given Name) (Middle Name)
of men with the God-given
hope of being restored to life
by him; but for you, there will
“If we have been united with
him through the likeness of his
death, so shall we be through
be no resurrection to life” (2 a like resurrection” (Rom 6:5).
SUBSCRIPTION RATES Mailing Address _______________________________________________ Macc 7:14b). In view of this, we can state
For Christians, of course, such that to raise monuments, raise
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The CBCP Monitor is published
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fortnightly by the CBCP Media Mode of Payment after death is the resurrection decisive is to live, after our
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B8 Entertainment CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 22
October 25 - November 7, 2010

Moral Assessment Technical Assessment

 Abhorrent  Poor
 Disturbing  Below average

 Acceptable  Average

 Wholesome  Above average

 Exemplary  E
xcellent

Doug MacRay (Ben Affleck) is an to close ups that capture the depth TITLE: The Town
unrepentant criminal, the de facto of each character’s portrayal. CAST: Ben Affleck, Rebecca
leader of a group of ruthless bank Casting couldn’t have been better, Hall, Jeremy Renner,
robbers who pride themselves as proven by the flawless acting Blake Lively, Pete
in stealing what they want and of the lead characters. Affleck Postlethwaite, Chris
has done a good directing job in Cooper.
getting out clean. With no real
DIRECTOR: Ben Affleck
attachments, Doug never has to that he is able to pull together SCREENPLAY: Ben Affleck,
fear losing anyone close to him. otherwise ordinary elements into Peter Craig and Aaron
But, that all changes on the gang’s a fresh, cohesive whole. Stockard, based on the
latest job, when they briefly take Can a man commit crimes with novel “Prince of Thieves”
a hostage, bank manager, Claire impunity and still love anyone by Chuck Hogan
Keesey (Rebecca Hall). They let else but himself? Can a lifetime CINEMATOGRAPHY: Robert
her go unharmed, but sometime of violence be reversed by an Elswit
later she meets an unassuming uttered intention to change? MUSIC: David Buckley, Harry
and rather charming man named It seems a tribute to the good Gregson-Williams
GENRE: Drama-thriller
Doug... not realizing that he is in man that one who has been
RUNNING TIME: 124 minutes
the same man who only days brought up in violence and LOCATION: United States
earlier had terrorized her. The crime—inheriting his bank- DISTRIBUTOR: Warner Bros.
instant attraction between them robbing “career” from his father TECHNICAL ASSESSMENT:
gradually turns into a passionate as part of a warped but accepted ½
romance that threatens to take cultural tradition, much like in MORAL ASSESSMENT:  ½
them both down a dangerous, the olden days when fathers CBCP-CINEMA ratings: R 18
and potentially deadly, path. and grandfathers molded their (Restricted to viewers
(Warner Bros). progeny to their trade—still has aged 18 and above)
Director and co-writer Affleck’s a modicum of human goodness
screen version of Chuck Hogan’s in him to resolve to turn his Town gains merits in painfully
2004 novel “Prince of Thieves” is back on evil and take the road to trying to depict the effect of the
meant to be a serious film , yet it is decency. But the will to change “sins of our fathers” on us and in
able to cater to the crowd that finds is tested and tried through time. giving hope to those who yearn
thrills in car chases and bloody There are people who have for a better world. A sensitive
bank heists. The story is clear and been killed, abused, betrayed and morally weighty film, but
is enhanced by good direction and and denied—may the offender its theme won’t interest young
tight editing. Cinematography is simply dispose of them in the new teens, and its well-intended
well-conceived, imbuing a sense world he wants to create? In this message may be missed, if not
of urgency and tension to high- film, time and the future are left misconstrued, by immature
action footage and an intimate feel to the viewer. Nonetheless, The viewers. (Teresa R. Tunay)

MAC en COLET Ni Bladimer Usi

Buhay Parokya
Look for the images of TITLE: Life as we know it
saints, Holy Rosary, and CAST: Katherine Heigle, Josh Duhamel, Josh Lucas,
Chalice. (Illustration by Christina Hendricks, Hayes MacArthur, Jean Smart,
Bladimer Usi) Melissa McCarthy, Majandra Delfino, Faizon Love,
Will Sasso
DIRECTOR: Greg Berlanti
WRITERS: Ian Deitchman, Kristin Rusk Robinson
GENRE: Comedy-Drama
RUNNING TIME: 115 minutes
LOCATION: United States
DISTRIBUTOR: Warner Bros.
TECHNICAL ASSESSMENT: 
MORAL ASSESSMENT:  ½
CBCP-CINEMA Ratings: R 14 (For viewers aged 14 and
above)

H olly
B e r e n s o n
(Katherine Heigl)
is an up-and-
coming caterer
and Eric Messer
(Josh Duhamel)
is an aspiring
network sports
director. After
a disastrous
first (blind) date
arranged by
their best friends
Peter and Alison
Novack (Hayes
MacArthur
and Christina
Hendricks) the
only thing they
have in common
in their dislike for
each other and
their love for their
goddaughter
Sophie, the child of Peter and Alison. When Sophie’s parents
die in a car accident, Holly and Messer find themselves the
unwilling surrogate parents as stated in the Novacks’ will. Messer
and Holly are oil and water forced to live under the same roof
in raising a child not their own. When they realize Sophie is
an orphan and has nobody else in the world, they agree to put
aside their differences. Parenting is done in earnest as Holly and
Messer juggle career ambitions and competing social calendars
to honor their best friends’ wish. (Warner Bros.)
Fans of Katherine Heigl will love this movie—besides being
easy on the eyes, Heigl has good comic timing, which explains
why she is so much in demand for rom-coms. It’s good to
remember that Life As We Know It is a romantic comedy, a
genre that may include the facts of life and living but which also
may capitalize on these facts as props to justify the improbable
plot. The most factual thing about this movie is its portrayal of
details where it concerns the experience of sharing a home with
a baby: the sleepless nights, poop-and-vomit management,
feeding time tantrums, and god-knows-what-other tragedies
that can be caused by an unattended toddler.
Like most rom-coms, Life As We Know It comes across as
formulaic and in many instances may feel like an expanded
television 30-minuter; but unlike most rom-coms, it is premised
on love for others, concern for the helpless, trust and loyalty
among friends, and goodwill of neighbors. Points for reflection
are: 1) having to care for a baby when one is not prepared for
it, and 2) what a shared experience of raising an orphan can
do to erstwhile enemies. While being surrogate parents to a
toddler helps them mature as persons, proximity accelerates
physical intimacy between the pair, leading them to skip
courtship—which is what happens in so many Hollywood
movies, when boy and girl bed even before they get to know
each other’s name. Despite the laughs and the artifice, Life As
We Know It may still move you to be involved—especially
as Sophie begins to call her surrogate mother “mama”—to be
concerned about the future of so many Sophies in our midst.
(Teresa R. Tunay)
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 22
October 25 - November 7, 2010
C1
Participants of the Visayas Sales Meetings
pose with their thumbs up at the lobby of the
Sarosa International Hotel.

The Cross
A Supplement Publication of KCFAPI
and the Order of the Knights of Columbus

Luzon Deputy joins

Luzon Deputy, Alonso L. Tan,
newly elected member of the
Supreme Board of Directors,
joined the Board’s quarterly
meeting last October 5-10,

the Supreme Board

2010 in Warsaw and Krakow,
Poland.
Tan assumed his post as a Supreme
Director last September 1, 2010, weeks
after the recent 128th Supreme Con-

Meeting in Poland
vention at the Marriott Wardman Park
Hotel in Washington, D.C. held from
August 3-5, 2010.
In the Philippines, Tan is the State
Deputy of the Luzon Jurisdiction of
the Knights of Columbus. He is also
the KCFAPI President, Director of the
Keys Realty and the President of the two
KC foundations, which are the KC Fr.
George J. Willman Charities, Inc and the
KC Philippines Foundation.
As Supreme Director, he will be part
of the advisory body of the Supreme
Knight of the Order of the Knights of
Columbus with headquarters at the
Columbus Plaza in New Haven, Con-
necticut, USA.
Aside from Tan, other Supreme KC
Officials were also given new roles and
responsibilities.
Emilio Moure, who has served as
Supreme Treasurer since October 2009,
is now the Supreme Secretary while
Charles E. Maurer Jr. is the new Su-
preme Treasurer.
Michael G. Conrad, past Nebraska
State Deputy is also one of the new New Supreme Director, Alonso L. Tan, seated fourth from right together with the other Supreme Board of Directors and their wives during the Board Meeting held in Warsaw and Krakow,
members of the Board of Directors. Poland from Oct. 5-10, 2010.
(Kate Laceda)

Justice Reyes
attends 60th
Men’s group vows to defend
Installation
of Burgos
church’s stand vs RH bill
Amid a raging birth control debate, initiated by the Church and even mass guide was protesting the church’s oppo- your rosaries out of our ovaries.”
a group of Catholic men is girding to protests to uphold and promote their sition to President Benigno Aquino III’s “The Knights of Columbus being

Assembly
protect and defend the church’s position anti-reproductive health bill stand. position on artificial contraception. pro-life, pro-family and pro-Church
on the RH Bill. Tan also criticized tourist guide Carlos The following day, a rally was held cannot just let these current onslaughts
The 250,000-strong Knights of Co- Celdran for “disrupting” an ecumenical at the gate of the main headquarters of against the Church pass without doing

Officers lumbus in the Philippines said they are

ready to mobilize its forces and oppose
a government plan to promote artificial
service at the Manila Cathedral.
Celdran was arrested last Thursday
after he walked at the cathedral’s main
the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the
Philippines in Intramuros by pro-RH
bill supporters.
something,” said Tan. “I therefore en-
courage my Brother Knights to uphold
and promote our anti-RH bill stand
State Advocate Justice Jose C. contraception. altar holding a placard with the name The demonstrators also went shouting and defend and protect the bishops,
Reyes, Jr. graced the 60th Installa- Alonso Tan, K of C Luzon deputy, “Damaso,” and shouting, “Stop getting “unprintable words” and carried plac- the priests and the church at large,” he
tion of Officers of the Padre Bur- said they would join any activities involved in politics.” The famous tourist ards with the messages such as “Take added. (CBCPNews)

Holy Trinity Memorial Chapel celebrates

gos Assembly (PBA) ACN 0984
last October 9, 2010. Reyes was
the Guest of Honor and Speaker
during the said installation. It was

28th anniversary on 10.10.10

held at Mariners’ Home in Malate,
Manila. The event was orga-
nized by the Knights of Columbus
Padre Burgos Assembly.
The installation started with a
fraternal mass celebrated by Fr. As various groups and individu- In his short speech, Atty. Reyes ex-
William Araña, OSA while the als celebrate 10.10.10, Holy Trinity pressed his heartfelt gratitude to all
installation of officers was fa- Memorial Chapels also had its own those who joined in the celebration
cilitated by SK Deovides F. Reyes, revelry as it commemorated its 28th and briefly presented his plans and
Master of the 4th degree, District year anniversary on October 10, 2010 programs which he envisioned to at-
IV (NCR). with the celebration of a thanksgiving tain during his term as President. The
The induction of committee mass held at HTMC building in Sucat President’s directions are all geared
chairmen and service directors Road, Parañaque City. The mass was towards making HTMC a bigger and
was administered by SK Macar- presided over by its Spiritual Adviser better memorial service provider of the
thur V. Maldia, Faithful Navi- Rev. Father Steve Villanueva. The future. As the company progresses, he
gator. Miguel T. Yu, Outgoing officers and its workforce, led by its also sees its valuable human resources
Faithful Navigator, rendered his incumbent President Atty. Henry prosper and grow.
valedictory address while Maldia A. Reyes, feasted on a simple lunch Holy Trinity Memorial Chapels is a
gave his inaugural address. HTMC Officers, employees and guests during the
together with some members of the subsidiary of the Knights of Columbus thanksgiving mass offered for the 28th Anniversary of
Meanwhile, Sate Program Di- Board of Directors and Knights of Fraternal Association of the Philippines, the Holy Trinity Memorial Chapels.
rector Bonifacio B. Martinez was Columbus. Inc. (Lolly Ulit)
awarded by the Assembly as

Visayas sales meetings set in Cebu

member of PBA Guards with con-
tinuous service of 25 years.
The event culminated with an
awarding of plaques and cer-
tificates of appreciation to the
speaker and a closing remark The fraternal counselors in Visayas gathered in Cebu Fresh from a testimonial dinner tendered by the President Joseph P. Teodoro and FBSD Manager Gari
from Manolito B. Saligumba, PGK City to assess their present sales environment and to Luzon Jurisdiction for his election as Supreme Direc- M. San Sebastian.
Council 5681, District Deputy set measures for improvement. The meeting was held tor, Luzon Deputy and KCFAPI President Alonso About 40 field sales personnel including 2 fraternal
M46. (KC News) from October 22-23, 2010 at the Sarosa International L. Tan, led a battery of motivational speakers which benefits associates, 2 area managers and 3 team leaders
Hotel. include KCFAPI EVP Ma. Theresa G. Curia, FBG Vice participated in the sales activity. (FBG News)
 The Cross
CBCP Monitor
C2 Vol. 14 No. 22
October 25 - November 7, 2010

Frequently Asked Question

Dividends options
from benefit certificate
Q. Annually, I receive in to purchase non-participating
cash my dividends from my fully paid additional insur-
benefit certificate (BC). What ance. Select this option if
other options do I have? you want to see your death
or living benefit increase or
A. Aside from receiving grow without any evidence
dividends in the form of cash, of insurability. The amount
the following are the other of additional insurance will
dividend options you can depend on the amount of de-
choose from: clared dividend, your attained
Dividend Option B: Divi- insurance age upon release
dends applied to reduce in- of dividends, and the plan of
surance contribution your benefit certificate.
The dividends released Dividend Option L: Divi-
will be used to reduce the dends applied to reduce out-
MOST REV. HONESTO F. ONGTIOCO, D.D of Cubao, presides over the Holy Eucharist during a Testimonial Dinner set in honor of Supreme Director Alonso L. Tan.
insurance contribution due standing BC loan The Testimonial Dinner, which was organized and sponsored by KC Luzon was attended by friends and relatives of the honoree, KC Luzon Officials and employees,
on your BC. In case your BC is If there is an outstanding Board members of KCFAPI, its Officers and selected employees and some members of the order of the Knights of Columbus. The said event was held last October
already fully-paid, for which loan against your BC, the div- 21, 2010 at the Villa Immaculada in Intramuros, Manila.

FBG holds service

no more contributions will idends released can be used
be due, your dividends will to reduce the outstanding
be left with the Association BC loan, thereby, increasing
to earn interest. the chances of keeping your
Dividend Option C: Leave BC in-force and maximizing

training for Luzon FCs

dividends to accumulate the death benefits due your
interest beneficiaries. If there is no
Your dividends are left with loan, your dividends will also
the Association to earn inter- be left with the Association to
est. The Association annually earn interest.
sets a dividend accumulation Additional notes: For op-
interest rate. The accumula- tions C and E, the Association
tion rate is highly dependent will use the accumulated divi-
on the Association’s invest- dends or cash value of your
ment earnings on the previ- paid-up additional insurance
ous year. Earned dividends to reduce the outstanding loan
or accumulated dividends in case your BC’s cash value
can be withdrawn anytime. is not enough to cover your
Should you miss paying your outstanding loan. In case you
contribution beyond the grace failed to make any selection
period, you authorize the in your BC application, the
Association to withdraw an default option is that your
amount from your accumu- dividends will be left to ac-
lated dividends and apply the cumulate interest (Option C). Participants of the Fraternal Service Training (FST) together with (seated from left) Fraternal Benefits Services Manager, Gari M. San Sebastian, Vice President
- Fraternal Benefits Group, Joseph P. Teodoro, KCFAPI President, Alonso L. Tan (4th from left), Executive Vice President, Ma. Theresa G. Curia, KCFAPI
same amount to cover your Should you desire to change Corporate Secretary, Ramon E. Rodrigo, Area Managers Conrado S. Dator, Jr. and Josefino F. Valencia.
contribution due. your dividend option, please
Dividend Option E: Divi- request a dividend option
dends used to buy paid-up change from the BC Holders’ The Fraternal Benefits Group conducted a in view of strategizing the presentation of ternal Association of the Philippines, Inc
additional insurance Relations Office (BRO). (Jose service training for the fraternal counselors. products and services of KCFAPI. (KCFAPI), contribution computation and
Your dividends are applied Felimon M. Abanador ) Dubbed as the “Fraternal Service Training,” Joseph P. Teodoro, Vice-President of the the familiarization of the standard operating
the training aims to motivate FCs to achieve Fraternal Benefits Group, and Gari M. San procedures (SOP) of the Association.
an improved sales performance. Sebastian, Fraternal Benefits Services Man- FBG is the sales and marketing department
The said training was held at the Fr. ager, were the lecturers and facilitators of of KCFAPI that is tasked to provide incen-
George J. Willmann, SJ Center in Intramuros, the training. tive programs, trainings, and other fraternal
Manila from October 19-20, 2010. Organiz- The topics discussed were the plans and activities for their agents called Fraternal
ers said the monthly training is being held products of the Knights of Columbus Fra- Counselors. (KCFAPI News)

Council of Honors Award Dufale bags anniver-

to end on October 30 sary sales drive
The KCFAPI Council of Hon- to cash prizes. Lorenzo D. Dufale, Sr. of the Dufale posted the highest
ors Award will end on October It is still anybody’s ball game Northwestern Luzon Thunders insurance contribution among
30, 2010. The sales promotion since no council or number of won the top cash prize in the almost 1,000 fraternal counsel-
is being offered to all coun- councils posted records that will KCFAPI’s 52ND Anniversary ors nationwide during the 3rd
cils nationwide. Top finishers regard them as sure winner(s). Sales Drive thereby putting quarter. Nine (9) other fraternal
measured by the number of Major changes in the present himself as a serious contender counselors won consolation
new paid lives from July 1st to standing will still happen on the in the contest for the 2010 FC of prizes of P5,000.00 each. (FBG
October 30, 2010 will be entitled last day. (FBG News) the Year Award. News)
 The Cross
CBCP Monitor
Vol. 14 No. 22
October 25 - November 7, 2010
C3
The attempt of some legislators to
impose mandatory support of abortion
on taxpayers is illogical
By Supreme Knight Carl A. fellow Knight John F. Kennedy, who Catholic politicians must now con-
Anderson while discussing his role as a Catholic sider the effect of national legislation
and candidate for president said: “If mandating Catholic cooperation in
the time should ever come — and I abortion. In his famous pro-life encycli-
A troubling new development has do not concede any conflict to be even cal, Evangelium Vitae, Pope John Paul II
appeared in American politics. For de- remotely possible — when my office wrote: “The passing of unjust laws often
cades, Americans have been subjected would require me to either violate my raises difficult problems of conscience
to the arguments of certain Catholic conscience or violate the national inter- for morally upright people with regard
politicians who argued that while est, then I would resign the office; and I to the issue of cooperation, since they
“personally opposed” to unjust policies hope any conscientious public servant have a right to demand not to be forced
like abortion, they were nonetheless would do the same.” to take part in morally evil actions.”
unwilling to “impose” that view on the While some might consider that He said further: “Christians, like all
rest of the country. This argument is Catholic politicians have disagreed people of good will, are called upon
disingenuous, premised on the fact that with the public policy recommenda- under grave obligation of conscience
somehow a Catholic conscience has to tions of their bishops in a variety of not to cooperate formally in practices
be put aside in the public square. areas, the key point is this: many issues which, even if permitted by civil legisla-
Now, the very people who argued are prudential and open to reasonable tion, are contrary to God’s law. Indeed,
that they couldn’t bring their private disagreement, but the inalienable right from the moral standpoint, it is never
conscience into a secular public square to life in the context of abortion is not licit to cooperate formally in evil. This
are poised to use the law to impose a — it is fundamental, and it may not be cooperation can never be justified either
particular view on others. By working compromised. by invoking respect for the freedom of
and voting to include abortion coverage As Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger — now others or by appealing to the fact that
in health care legislation, several Catho- Pope Benedict XVI — noted about Cath- civil law permits it or requires it” (74).
lic politicians stand to be the deciding olic politicians in 2004: “not all moral It is doubly ironic that a law that would
votes in forcing their fellow Catholics to issues have the same moral weight as force millions to violate their conscience
fund abortion through tax dollars. abortion.” by paying their taxes — and would en-
While professing that they cannot He continued: “While the Church ex- tangle thousands of Catholic physicians,
impose their consciences on anyone horts civil authorities to seek peace, not nurses, hospitals and charities in the
else, these politicians seem to have little war, and to exercise discretion and mercy evil of abortion — is being considered
hesitation about imposing an immoral in imposing punishment on criminals, at precisely a time when the majority of
political view — one they claim to op- it may still be permissible to take up Americans, in greater and greater num-
pose in principle — on the consciences arms to repel an aggressor or to have bers, identify themselves as pro-life.
of Catholic citizens. recourse to capital punishment. There Catholic public officials in Wash-
Catholic politicians willing to forsake may be a legitimate diversity of opinion ington have the power to prevent this Atty. Rizal V. Katalbas, Jr.

From the Legal Standpoint

their consciences have come a long way even among Catholics about waging war moral tragedy from happening. They
from the legacy of the highest profile and applying the death penalty, but not should not hesitate to do so.
Catholic statesman in U.S. history, however with regard to abortion.” Vivat Jesus!

Joseph P. Teodoro

For Brother Knights by Brother Knights KCFAPI as

a Mutual
Benefit
KCFAPI’s Top FCs of the Decade Association
FROM 2001–2010, five fraternal counselors poured out their best efforts in helping brother knights and family members provide for them- THE Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association of the Phils.,
selves and their loved ones secured financial future through the fraternal benefits program of the Order in the Philippines administered Inc. (KCFAPI) is an organization registered with the Insurance
by KCFAPI. Each one of them has earned for himself (or herself) the much coveted title of Fraternal Counselor of the Year during the first Commission as a Mutual Benefit Association (MBA). While it
decade of the second millennium. They were also consistent members of the Chairman’s circle and the Fr. George J. Willmann, SJ Knights has been said that there is no distinction between mutual insur-
of the Round Table. ance companies and mutual benefit societies, except where a
statute has created a difference, and while insurance principles
are applicable in the case of mutual benefit certificates, benefit
societies as usually constituted are materially different from
mutual insurance companies.
The following are the distinctions between a mutual benefit
association and a mutual insurance company:

Mutual Benefit Mutual (Commercial)

Association (MBA) Insurance Company

Coverage It is limited to mem- It is extended to the

bers of the organiza- public.
tion and immediate
family members.

Purpose Provides assistance Indemnity or security

Bonifacio M. Morales Danilo M. Tullao Reynaldo Q. Maria Teresa G. de la Lauro L. Evangelista and relief to its mem- against loss incurred
Council 9382 Council 9087 Segismundo Mota Council 12810 bers in times of dis- by the insured.
Central Luzon Northeastern Luzon Council 13058 Wife of Bro. Edmundo Central Luzon tress or misfortune.
Believers 1 Cavaliers Northwestern Luzon J. de la Mota Believers 1
Thunders Council 13058 Payments Payments made Payments to the pro-
Western Visayas to the provider for vider are referred to
Bulls coverage are called as “premium pay-
“contributions”. ments.”
KCFAPI salutes them in their firm commitment and adherence to the bedrock foundation of the Order which is the care for the widow
and children of departed members. We also recognize their devotion to their work in helping KCFAPI fulfill its avowed mission as the
Evidence of Proof of coverage is Insurance policies
second-to-none fraternal benefits program provider of Filipino knights and families.
Coverage referred to as Mem- are issued as proof
bership Benefit Cer- of coverage. The in-
tificates. Hence, a sured is referred to as

Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association of the Philippines Inc., member is referred

to as the “Benefit
a “Policy holder”.

Certificate Holder”.
an established mutual benefits association is currently looking for:
Kind of It is a non-stock They are registered
Auditor The Knights of Columbus
Fraternal Association of the
corporation corporation. Mem-
bers of the Board
as Stock corpora-
tions. Members of
Accounting Staff Philippines Inc., is an established and
are referred to as
“Trustees”
the Board are referred
to as “Directors”.
BC Holders’ Relations Office Staff progressive mutual benefits association
operating for 52 years, has been highly Ownership Being a non-stock Ownership is repre-
Treasury Staff committed to provide mutual aid and
assistance to its members and their
corporation, there
are no stockholders.
sented in shares of
stocks and owners of
Customer Relations Assistant immediate families. All of its members
are co-owners of the
stocks are referred to
as “stockholders”.
If you are dedicated, service-oriented, and have the prom- KC Fraternal firmly believes that Association
ising potential to join us in our continuous drive to provide the continued progress and success
Excess of Savings attained in Income derived from
mutual aid, assistance and excellent service to our mem- of the association depends to a
Revenues a fiscal year by an operations in a fiscal
great extent on its human capital
bers. Kindly send your comprehensive resume’ thru fax MBA is apportioned year is distributed
for use in further- to its stockholders
number 527-2244 or hand-carry resume’ with a 2x2 photo KC Fraternal also believes that ance of its objectives through dividend
and transcript of records to: through training and a host of other and for distribution declaration and to
benefits if coupled with hard work, will to qualified mem- policy holders re-
help employees and the association bers. ferred to as policy
attain their goals and objectives. dividends.

Delivery of Processing of claims Processing takes a

In our continuous drive to provide
Service is generally faster longer period due
excellent service to our members, we since the deceased to measures taken to
are currently on the look-out for indi- (covered member) verify the identity of
viduals with promising potentials. He is known to the As- the deceased policy
must be dedicated, service oriented, sociation. holder.
KC Family... Our Concern and willing to undergo training .
Fr. George J. Willmann’s deep concern for the welfare
KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS FRATERNAL Our compensation and employee of members of the Knights of Columbus and their families
prompted him to establish KCFAPI with the primary purpose
ASSOCIATION OF THE PHILIPPINES, INC. benefits are comparable, if not
better than most companies of our of rendering mutual aid and assistance to members and their
immediate families and beneficiaries in times of distress and
Gen. Luna cor. Sta. Potenciana Sts., Intramuros, Manila same size and nature of business. misfortune.
You may also call 527 – 2223 local 202 for queries and look for Ms. Kristianne or Ms. Juno.
 The Cross
CBCP Monitor
C4 Vol. 14 No. 22
October 25 - November 7, 2010

Luzon Squires gather for

planning and recollection Aiming to tackle the programs Enrico C. Nera, State Squires
and activities of the Columbian Ceremonial Director, gave a talk
Squires for the next Columbian using a SWOT (strengths, weak-
year, the Diocesan Area Chair- nesses, opportunities, threats)
men of the Knights of Columbus- method of analysis.
Luzon Squires Committee have The Columbian Squires which
assembled for Planning and is the youth organization of the
Recollection. Knights of Columbus is one of
The gathering was held last the most dynamic leadership
September 25-26, 2010 at the development organizations for
Alagad ni Maria Retreat House young Catholic men not only in
in Antipolo City. the Philippines but throughout
Infanta Bishop emeritus Julio the world.
Labayen, recollection master, Presently it has more than
has provided some fraternal 25,000 Catholic young men, ages
reflections during the recollec- 10 to 18, in over 1,400 circles
tion. worldwide.
An Oath-taking of State Squire Circles are active in countries
Officers and Committeemen was like United States, Canada,
also held with State Secretary Mexico, Philippines, Puerto
Arsenio Isidro Yap officiating. Rico, Guatemala, Panama, Cuba,
Yap also gave an inspirational the Bahamas, the Virgin Islands,
message to the participants dur- Guam, and on U.S. military
Photo shows State Secretary Arsenio Isidro Yap during the Oath-taking of State Squire Officers and Committeemen.
ing the recollection. bases. (KC News)

A ‘nag-SICAP’ tells the Good News

Three months after the closing of hanap buhay kung wala naman pang- their state of living. She said being a
KCFAPI’S Social Improvement through ispirituwal wala pa rin iyon. Kailangan member of SICAP also gives her an op-
Community Action Program or SICAP isama natin iyan,” she said. portunity to encourage other women
the Association still receives heart- Many times Marl would drop by KC- in their community to spend their time
warming feedbacks regarding the FAPI head office and cheerfully share productively.
special project. how she had surprised the people in “Hikayatin ang mga nanay na mag-
SICAP’s popularity among the resi- her parish with the simple recipe she attend ng meeting o mga programa na
dents of Barangay 658, Intramuros was learned from SICAP. ibibigay ng gobyerno para matuto sila
due to the positive responses shared by “Natuwa sila,” she would say, “ibig ng pangkabuhayan. Pangkabuhayan
many of its participants. Ms. Marlina sabihin masaya sila sa natutunan ko.” ang importante ngayon. Iyong mga
Tanlawan, one of SICAP’s most active After every story, she would always natutunang maliit na bagay, pagsikapan
members, is one of the “tellers” of the say how proud she was to be a part of the ninyo.”
“good news”. said project and that many of her friends Marl continues to take part in liveli-
Marl, as she is fondly called by the were eager to become members too. hood programs set by private groups
group, is 53 years old. Before joining SI- “Natutuwa sila na nai-share ko sa or government units. She believes
CAP, she has already established herself kanila iyon kaya gusto rin nila magpa- that this will greatly help her with her
as a small entrepreneur selling native member. Na-engganyo sila sa magan- small business. When asked what’s the
bags and accessories in WOW Philip- dang pamamalita.” secret behind her perseverance she said,
pines. While busy being a mother and The six-month program of SICAP “Pagdarasal. Kung wala Siya, hindi
a businesswoman, Marl finds enough provided participants with seminars maibibigay sa atin ang tamang daan.”
time to participate in Cofradia Del Sto. on livelihood, health, wellness, Catholic
Niño De Cebu and regularly serves in faith and social awareness. Marl would (Interview with Ms. Marlina Tanlawan
Ms. Marlina Tanlawan with Human Resources & Corporate Communications Asst., Juno Amaris Mancenido
San Agustin church. often regard the project as a worth- is available in KCFAPI Podcast at www. during an interview at the KCFAPI podcast studio.
“Kasi alam mo, hanap buhay ka nang while activity that will help improve kofc.org.ph.)

Luzon Deputy attends Official Functions

Barely one month from assuming his one of the top KCFAPI fraternal counsel- able to fulfill his commitment to grace the
position as KC Supreme Director, Luzon ors. 54th Anniversary Celebration of San Pedro
Deputy and KCFAPI President, Alonso October 2 was another hectic day for the Council 5234 and that at the same time in-
L. Tan has attended a number of official Luzon Deputy. One morning of that day he stallation of officers for the Columbian Year
functions. He was elected to the position motored to Biñan City where he presided 2010-2011. The highlight of the occasion is
during the last Supreme Council meeting over the Charter presentation of the Ernesto the presentation of the Holy Family portrait
in August 2010 in Washington D.C. His T. Alzona Sr. Council 14957. Charter Grand to the family of Bro. Isidro and Sister Leah
three year term of office started on Sep- Knight Leonardo L. Manalo together with Molina who won 3rd Runner up in the an-
tember 1, 2010. the officers were also installed by District nual search for the International Family of
On September 26, 2010 he was the guest Deputy Felix L. Galang Jr. The council was the Year. The Luzon Deputy was assisted
speaker during the installation of officers of named in honor of Sir Knight Ernesto T. by DD Raynaldo Flor and Grand Knight
Council 12810 in Bintog, Plaridel Bulacan. Alzona, Sr. who was an active member of Armando Nayve.
The occasion coincided with the council’s the order during his lifetime. Alzona served The following day Bro. Tan assisted by
10th year anniversary celebration. District as master of the Fourth Degree in Southern his wife sister Tessie started to arrange his
Bro. Josefino F. Valencia, Area Manager-Northwestern Luzon Thunders, handed over deputy Rodolfo Y. Manumbas officiated Luzon Region. luggage for a one week trip to Poland where
to Sis. Gracelyn J. Pasion checks worth P129,119.31 representing death benefits on
the life of the late Bro. Randolph P. Pasion. the installation of officers led by its Grand Without a trace of weariness the Luzon he is slated to attend his first in a series of
Knight, Bro. Lauro Evangelista, who is also Deputy on the evening of the same day was Supreme Board Meeting.

KCFAPI employees
recite novena to
Bro. André Bessette
A NOVENA to Bro. An-
dré was included in the
noon prayer sessions of
the KCFAPI employees,
which ran from October
11 to 17. The novena
followed the praying of
the holy rosary, which
is being done regularly
by the KCFAPI employ-
ees during their lunch
break.
The invitation to of-
Bro. Conrado S. Dator, Jr., Area Manager-Southern Luzon Lakers, handed over to Sis. Cristina N. Mercado a check worth P103,777.64 representing death benefits on the life of fer a prayer to Bro. An-
the late Bro. Manuel L. Mercado. Beside Sis. Mercado is Bro. Edwin B. Dawal, Manager of Benefit Certificate Holders’ Relations Office. dré came from Msgr.
Pedro C. Quitorio III
during his homily at

EM Eagles host Fraternal Service

the KCFAPI chapel.
On that same day, a
copy of the prayer was

Training and Joint Area Meeting sent to employees via

intra-mail; pocket-
sized prayer leaflets
were also placed at the cha-
before the St. Joseph altar. Be-
cause he wanted St. Joseph to
THE Eastern Mindanao Eagles led by their Adrian Boston, Fraternal Benefits Associate. Vice President of Fraternal Benefits Group
head coach Fidel Blantucas hosted the re- There were eight newly appointed fraternal talked about the various incentives program pel. be honored, in 1904 Bro. André
cent Fraternal Service Training (FST) and counselors who responded to the invitation for membership of the Order, namely the Bro. André s was born in began the campaign to erect a
Joint Area Meeting last September 25 and of their respective area managers to continue Most Outstanding District Deputy, Council Mont-Saint-Grégoire, Quebec. chapel to honor the saint. In
26, 2010 at KCFAPI Service Office and Pa- the mission of the Order’s founder, Fr. Mi- of Honors and the Fr. George J. Willmann His great confidence in Saint 1924 construction of a basilica
terno’s restaurant. chael J. McGivney. Search for Academic Excellence. These Joseph inspired him to recom- named Saint Joseph’s Oratory
The two-day event was participated in by KCFAPI’s Executive Vice President, Ms. awards are all initiated and being supported mend this saint’s devotion to began.
fraternal counselors of Central Mindanao Theresa Curia opened the joint area meet- by KCFAPI. all those who were afflicted He was declared venerable in
Cowboys and North Cotabato Explorers. ing on the second day with the updates and San Sebastian likewise discussed the in various ways. On his many 1978 and was beatified in 1982.
Area Manager of the Cowboys, Lorenzo Lab- highlights of the Association. Curia also performance and productivity of each area visits to the sick in their homes, Pope Benedict XVI approved
rador and the team leader of the Explorer, challenged the salesforce to meet their indi- while the measures of improvement and he would recommend them in sainthood for Blessed André
Nonato Acupan were also present. vidual and group targets for the year. strategies for the remaining months of the prayer to St. Joseph, and would on February 19, 2010, with the
Fraternal Service Training was conducted The possible venue for the 2010 Annual year were undertaken by FBA, AMs and anoint them lightly with oil formal canonization last Oc-
by Gari San Sebastian, Manager of the Fra- awards was also presented as part of the team leader. The salesforce committed to from the lamp in the college tober 17, 2010. (Juno Amaris
ternal Benefits Services and facilitated by motivational campaign. Joseph Teodoro, meet their goal for this year. (FBG News) chapel which always burned Mancenido)