Friday, December 31, 2010
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Dear friends of Cagayan de Oro Archdiocese,
Over the past month, we have been blessed with three ordinations to the diaconate for the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro. During this year 2010, we are also celebrating the 25th anniversary of St. John Vianney Theological Seminary. SJVTS is the major seminary set up by the bishops in the CABUSTAM sub-region (i.e., Cagayan de Oro – Butuan – Surigao – Tandag – Malaybalay).
One highlight of the seminary’s celebration was the episcopal ordination last April of one of its first graduates, Fr. Jose Cabantan, as the fourth bishop of Malaybalay. He succeeds Bishop Honesto Pacana, S.J., a former Rector of SJVTS. Over the years, the seminary has produced around 350 priests now serving in practically all the 21 arch/dioceses of Mindanao and parts of the Visayas. At present the seminary is undertaking a 25M – for 25 years endowment fund drive to provide scholarship support for our major seminarians.
On another front, in the light of the current issue on the Reproductive Health bills, the All – Natural Family Planning Program of the archdiocese has been receiving heightened interest. Last week our NFP team was invited by the Hapag Asa program of Assisi Foundation to give a trainors’ training seminar in Tagaytay to delegates from 16 dioceses in Luzon. Many of the participants enthusiastically pointed out how this NFP program addressed to parents complements the feeding program of Hapag Asa for undernourished children.
Indeed, in a recent Forum on the RH Bill co-sponsored by the archdiocese, we pointed out that the four pastoral guidelines for our All – NFP program also explicitate the local church’s core values vis-à-vis some legislators’ proposals on RH:
(1) We are Pro-LIfe, as our first principle;
(2) We are for Responsible Parenthood, as our goal;
(3) We are for Natural Family Planning, as our means; and
(4) We are for enabling couples to make an Informed and Responsible Choice, according to the Formation of a Right Conscience.
In many ways, these core values are exemplified in the Christmas story of the Holy Family. May their message of love and life be ours to share throughout the coming year (which also marks the 60th anniversary of Cagayan de Oro as an archdiocese).
With God’s blessings,
Archbishop Antonio J. Ledesma, S.J.
Monday, December 6, 2010
Pope lauds CBCP effort against RH bill
Bishops ‘Encouraged’ to fight birth control
Pope Benedict XVI praised efforts of the Filipino bishops in blocking any attempts to promote contraception in the Philippines.
The pontiff said the Philippine Catholic leadership has reaffirmed its commitment to confronting any attack on the sanctity of life.
“I commend the Church in the Philippines for seeking to play its part in support of human life from conception until natural death, and in defense of the integrity of marriage and the family,” said Benedict XVI.
“In these areas you are promoting truths about the human person and about society which arise not only from divine revelation but also from the natural law, an order which is accessible to human reason and thus provides a basis for dialogue and deeper discernment on the part of all people of good will.”
Benedict XVI made the statement upon receiving in audience a group of Filipino prelates at the end of their five-yearly “ad limina” visit in Rome on November 29.
Church leaders are currently under a head on collision with proponents and supporters of the controversial Reproductive Health bill that promotes contraceptives.
The bishops noted that the church is not against population control if the sanctity of human life is protected. The CBCP endorsed natural family planning as one such birth control method.
They further recommended that government funding on contraceptives be directed towards anti-poverty, anti-hunger, and educational projects.
After gaining praise from Pope Benedict XVI, the Philippine Catholic hierarchy found more reason to oppose a proposed birth control measure.
Bishop Nereo Odchimar, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines said the pope’s statement has encouraged them to fight the reproductive health bill despite a growing number of lawmakers backing it. He said the pontiff commended the church in the Philippines for its commitment to protect the sanctity of life.
“We are greatly encouraged by the words of the Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, on the undertakings of the Church in the Philippines,” said Odchimar.
“Pope Benedict’s message to the first group of Philippine bishops affirms the CBCP’s staunch resolve to preach and stand up for the Gospel of life in season and out of season,” he said.
Odchimar also said the pope also thanked not only the Filipino bishops, priests and religious, but also the lay persons for working to promote a just social order.
Last Monday (Vatican time), the Pontiff hailed the members of the CBCP for its strong pro-life stance by continuously opposing bills that are against human life.
“I commend the Church in the Philippines for seeking to play its part in support of human life from conception until natural death,” said the Pope in his message to the first batch of Philippine Bishops in their visitatio ad limina apostolotum to the Holy See.
The first batch of bishops was composed of prelates coming from 30 pastoral jurisdictions in Metro Manila, and Central and Northern Luzon, set from Nov. 25 to Dec. 6.
Meanwhile, an official of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines has called for a stop on surveys on the Reproductive Health bill while the issue is still being debated by the lawmakers.
Fr. Melvin Castro, executive secretary of the CBCP’s Commission on Family and Life, fears the surveys are being conducted to influence the decision of the lawmakers.
Castro also expressed concern that surveys are being conducted as a mind-conditioning strategy of those behind the controversial measure.
“We are appealing to them (surveying firms) not to be used to mindset legislators that majority of the people is for the bill… so that it will not cause undue influence to our legislators,” said Castro.
“It is our impression now that they are trying to influence our legislators,” he further said.
Castro made the statement after the result of Pulse Asia’s latest survey revealed that seven out of 10 Filipinos are in favor of the RH bill which seeks to promote contraception.
The poll shows that 69 percent of Filipinos support the measure, seven percent oppose it, while 24 percent are undecided.
The CBCP official, meantime, questioned the manner by which the survey was done by the polling firm.
“The question is: Did the questions tackle the bill’s provisions? Or was it a general question on whether they support it or not? It would be good to ask if the people they surveyed have already read the bill or not,” he said.
Here in Cagayan de Oro, in an effort to break the impasse and attain unity for the good of every Filipino in the light of the polarization of Philippine society caused by the controversial bill, dioceses in Mindanao with the help of the organization of German bishops, held a dialogue at the Xavier University Chapel last week.
“We know (the RH Bill) is a controversial issue, fueled more lately by the Pope’s pronouncement. It is imperative upon us to dialogue so we can appreciate more objectively the differing stands of the church and other pro-life groups,” said Jun CheeKee, one of the dialogue organizer.
The dialogue, according to CheeKee, was organized by the Philippine Misereor Partnership-Cagayan, Bukidnon, Surigao, Tandag and Malaybalay dioceses (PMP-CABUSTAM).
In another development, the Loyola School of Theology (LST) and the John J. Carroll Institute on Church and Social Issues (JJCICSI) jointly issued a paper on the RH Bill that was authored by Jesuits (Fr. Eric O. Genilo, S.J., Fr, John J. Carroll, S.J., and Fr. Joaquin Bernas, S.J.).
Entitled “Talking Points for Dialogue on the Reproductive Health Bill (HB 96; filed July 1, 2010),” the authors pointed out that “the polarization of Philippine society over the Reproductive Health Bill has been a source of discouragement and discontent among Filipinos. It is unfortunate that the debate has focused only on whether the Bill should be passed or rejected in its present form. Either option would not be good for Filipinos.”
According to the authors, passing the bill in its present form is “unacceptable” because of “serious flaws that can lead to violations of human rights and freedom of conscience.”
“Total rejection of the Bill, however, will not change the status quo of high rates of infant mortality, maternal deaths, and abortions. It is a moral imperative that such dehumanizing conditions should not be allowed to continue,” they said.
Frs. Genilo, Carroll and Bernas stressed that a third option, which is “critical and constructive engagement” is needed.
“By working together to amend the objectionable provisions of the Bill and retain the provisions that actually improve the lives of Filipinos, both the proponents and opponents of the Bill can make a contribution to protection of the dignity of Filipinos and an improvement of their quality of life,” they said. (Mindanao Current - Compiled from reports from CBCPNews and from Bong D. Fabe/CBCPNews/Cagayan de Oro)
Pope Benedict XVI praised efforts of the Filipino bishops in blocking any attempts to promote contraception in the Philippines.
The pontiff said the Philippine Catholic leadership has reaffirmed its commitment to confronting any attack on the sanctity of life.
“I commend the Church in the Philippines for seeking to play its part in support of human life from conception until natural death, and in defense of the integrity of marriage and the family,” said Benedict XVI.
“In these areas you are promoting truths about the human person and about society which arise not only from divine revelation but also from the natural law, an order which is accessible to human reason and thus provides a basis for dialogue and deeper discernment on the part of all people of good will.”
Benedict XVI made the statement upon receiving in audience a group of Filipino prelates at the end of their five-yearly “ad limina” visit in Rome on November 29.
Church leaders are currently under a head on collision with proponents and supporters of the controversial Reproductive Health bill that promotes contraceptives.
The bishops noted that the church is not against population control if the sanctity of human life is protected. The CBCP endorsed natural family planning as one such birth control method.
They further recommended that government funding on contraceptives be directed towards anti-poverty, anti-hunger, and educational projects.
After gaining praise from Pope Benedict XVI, the Philippine Catholic hierarchy found more reason to oppose a proposed birth control measure.
Bishop Nereo Odchimar, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines said the pope’s statement has encouraged them to fight the reproductive health bill despite a growing number of lawmakers backing it. He said the pontiff commended the church in the Philippines for its commitment to protect the sanctity of life.
“We are greatly encouraged by the words of the Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, on the undertakings of the Church in the Philippines,” said Odchimar.
“Pope Benedict’s message to the first group of Philippine bishops affirms the CBCP’s staunch resolve to preach and stand up for the Gospel of life in season and out of season,” he said.
Odchimar also said the pope also thanked not only the Filipino bishops, priests and religious, but also the lay persons for working to promote a just social order.
Last Monday (Vatican time), the Pontiff hailed the members of the CBCP for its strong pro-life stance by continuously opposing bills that are against human life.
“I commend the Church in the Philippines for seeking to play its part in support of human life from conception until natural death,” said the Pope in his message to the first batch of Philippine Bishops in their visitatio ad limina apostolotum to the Holy See.
The first batch of bishops was composed of prelates coming from 30 pastoral jurisdictions in Metro Manila, and Central and Northern Luzon, set from Nov. 25 to Dec. 6.
Meanwhile, an official of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines has called for a stop on surveys on the Reproductive Health bill while the issue is still being debated by the lawmakers.
Fr. Melvin Castro, executive secretary of the CBCP’s Commission on Family and Life, fears the surveys are being conducted to influence the decision of the lawmakers.
Castro also expressed concern that surveys are being conducted as a mind-conditioning strategy of those behind the controversial measure.
“We are appealing to them (surveying firms) not to be used to mindset legislators that majority of the people is for the bill… so that it will not cause undue influence to our legislators,” said Castro.
“It is our impression now that they are trying to influence our legislators,” he further said.
Castro made the statement after the result of Pulse Asia’s latest survey revealed that seven out of 10 Filipinos are in favor of the RH bill which seeks to promote contraception.
The poll shows that 69 percent of Filipinos support the measure, seven percent oppose it, while 24 percent are undecided.
The CBCP official, meantime, questioned the manner by which the survey was done by the polling firm.
“The question is: Did the questions tackle the bill’s provisions? Or was it a general question on whether they support it or not? It would be good to ask if the people they surveyed have already read the bill or not,” he said.
Here in Cagayan de Oro, in an effort to break the impasse and attain unity for the good of every Filipino in the light of the polarization of Philippine society caused by the controversial bill, dioceses in Mindanao with the help of the organization of German bishops, held a dialogue at the Xavier University Chapel last week.
“We know (the RH Bill) is a controversial issue, fueled more lately by the Pope’s pronouncement. It is imperative upon us to dialogue so we can appreciate more objectively the differing stands of the church and other pro-life groups,” said Jun CheeKee, one of the dialogue organizer.
The dialogue, according to CheeKee, was organized by the Philippine Misereor Partnership-Cagayan, Bukidnon, Surigao, Tandag and Malaybalay dioceses (PMP-CABUSTAM).
In another development, the Loyola School of Theology (LST) and the John J. Carroll Institute on Church and Social Issues (JJCICSI) jointly issued a paper on the RH Bill that was authored by Jesuits (Fr. Eric O. Genilo, S.J., Fr, John J. Carroll, S.J., and Fr. Joaquin Bernas, S.J.).
Entitled “Talking Points for Dialogue on the Reproductive Health Bill (HB 96; filed July 1, 2010),” the authors pointed out that “the polarization of Philippine society over the Reproductive Health Bill has been a source of discouragement and discontent among Filipinos. It is unfortunate that the debate has focused only on whether the Bill should be passed or rejected in its present form. Either option would not be good for Filipinos.”
According to the authors, passing the bill in its present form is “unacceptable” because of “serious flaws that can lead to violations of human rights and freedom of conscience.”
“Total rejection of the Bill, however, will not change the status quo of high rates of infant mortality, maternal deaths, and abortions. It is a moral imperative that such dehumanizing conditions should not be allowed to continue,” they said.
Frs. Genilo, Carroll and Bernas stressed that a third option, which is “critical and constructive engagement” is needed.
“By working together to amend the objectionable provisions of the Bill and retain the provisions that actually improve the lives of Filipinos, both the proponents and opponents of the Bill can make a contribution to protection of the dignity of Filipinos and an improvement of their quality of life,” they said. (Mindanao Current - Compiled from reports from CBCPNews and from Bong D. Fabe/CBCPNews/Cagayan de Oro)
Friday, November 19, 2010
Nasudnong panagtagbo sa mga directors ug coordinators sa mga katekista
Ni Sr. Josie Alabado, TMM
Mikabat sa kapin kon kulang usa ka gatos ug kawaloan ug lima (185) ka mga deligado nga mga Archdiocesan Directors ug Coordinators ang mitambong sa gipahigayon nga panagtagbo didto sa Archdiocesan Lay Formation Center sa Archdiocese sa Lingayen-Dagupan niadtong Hulyo 12-15, 2010. Matag tuig kausa kini mahitabo nga gipasiugdahan sa Episcopal Commission on Catechesis and Catholic Education (ECCCE) nga gipangulohan ni Bishop Soc Villegas, ECCE Chairman uban usab ni Sr. Jesusa Enginco, OP.
Duha ka mga deligado gikan dinhi sa atong arkidiyosesis and mitambong sila si Rev. Fr. Michael Fabello, Assistant Catechetical Director ug si Sr. Josie Alabado, TMM Coordinator. Sila nagrepresentar sa atong arkidiyosesis. Ang tema sa panagtabo karong tuiga mao ang “Catechesis by the family, with the family and for the family.” Adunay giimbitar nga mga mamumulong aron sa pagpahayag ug pagpaambit sa tema kon unsa ka importante ang pamilya sa trabaho sa ebanghelisasyon. Ang mga speakers adunay mga pari, mga miembro sa couples for Christ, gikan usab sa grupo sa Consecration of the Family Apostolate. Sa katapusang adlaw nagpahigayon ang tigdumala mga arkidiyosesis og travel tour sa Hundred Islands.
Mikabat sa kapin kon kulang usa ka gatos ug kawaloan ug lima (185) ka mga deligado nga mga Archdiocesan Directors ug Coordinators ang mitambong sa gipahigayon nga panagtagbo didto sa Archdiocesan Lay Formation Center sa Archdiocese sa Lingayen-Dagupan niadtong Hulyo 12-15, 2010. Matag tuig kausa kini mahitabo nga gipasiugdahan sa Episcopal Commission on Catechesis and Catholic Education (ECCCE) nga gipangulohan ni Bishop Soc Villegas, ECCE Chairman uban usab ni Sr. Jesusa Enginco, OP.
Duha ka mga deligado gikan dinhi sa atong arkidiyosesis and mitambong sila si Rev. Fr. Michael Fabello, Assistant Catechetical Director ug si Sr. Josie Alabado, TMM Coordinator. Sila nagrepresentar sa atong arkidiyosesis. Ang tema sa panagtabo karong tuiga mao ang “Catechesis by the family, with the family and for the family.” Adunay giimbitar nga mga mamumulong aron sa pagpahayag ug pagpaambit sa tema kon unsa ka importante ang pamilya sa trabaho sa ebanghelisasyon. Ang mga speakers adunay mga pari, mga miembro sa couples for Christ, gikan usab sa grupo sa Consecration of the Family Apostolate. Sa katapusang adlaw nagpahigayon ang tigdumala mga arkidiyosesis og travel tour sa Hundred Islands.
Unang panagtigum sa mga mag-uuma gipahigayon sa parokya sa Claveria
Sustainable Agriculture Ministry
Malampusong gipahigayon ang unang panagtigum sa mga mag-uuma sa arkidiyosesis niaadtong Octubre 29 ug 30 sa parokya sa Birhen sa Lourdes sa lungsod sa Claveria. Kiniing unang panagtigum midala sa tema, ‘Malahutayong Pag-panguma, Haum ug Tubag sa Nagka-usab Usab nga Panahon. Si Rev. Fr. Rene D. Soldevilla, ang pangulo sa Sustainable Agriculture Ministry (SAM) miulbo sa kalipay sa nakita nga mga mag-uuma, pangulo sa SAM ug Social Action Center (SAC) sa nagkalain-laing parokya nga mikabat menos o kulang sa usa ka gatos.
Sa maong panagtigum, gipakita ni Arsobispo Antonio Ledesma ang iyang dakong gugma sa mag-uuma diin siya usa sa mamumulong.
Ang mahal nga Obispo misangpit sa mga ka puntos sa ‘Espirituhanong Gabayan sa Kinabuhi’ sama sa: ang kinaiyahan gasa sa Dios; ang kinaiyahan alang sa kinatibuk-an nga kaayohan sa tanan; ang tanang katawhan responsable ug dunay kaakohan isip piniyalan sa Dios sa kinaiyahan; ug usab, ang kalambuan sa tawo nakahan-ay diha sa iyang pagtoo sa Dios.
Dinhi usab nga panagtigum, gipirmahan sa Claveria Technical Coordinating Committee (CTCC) ang ‘Memorandum of Understanding’diin ang tuyo mao ang paglantaw sa kalambuan sa ‘Pilot Project’ sa Arkidiyosesis nga gidala sa Sustainable Agriculture Ministry sa parokya sa Birhen sa Lourdes nga mao ang ‘Bridging Claveria Small Farmers to Jollibee Supply Chain.’ Kining proyekto nga gidamgo ni Arsobispo Ledesma nga alang sa mga mag-uuma sa Arkidiyosesis, maka pa-uswag sa ilang kinabuhi pinaagi sa pag-suplay ug mga abot ngadto sa Jollibee ug ang igsoon niining establisismo nga nag negosyo pinaagi sa “food chain.”
Ang unang panagtigum sa mag-uuma, gisuportahan sa; Department of Agriculture, Municipality of Claveria, Misamis Oriental State College of Agriculture and Technology (MOSCAT), World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF), Landcare Foundation Philippines, Catholic Relief Services (CRS), Our Lady of Lourdes Parish of Claveria, ug ang Archdiocese sa Cagayan de Oro, pinaagi sa Ad-Extra Ministry-Social Action Center. Kini usab ang hugpong nga milambigit sa Claveria Technical Coordinating Committee o (CTCC).
Ang mga pagtoon nga nakahatag ug dakong pag-laum sa mag-uuma nga gipakita sa panagtigum mao ang: “Integrated Pest Management ug Natural Farming Technology and System” nga gihatag nila ni G. Maagad ug G. de los Reyes sa Department of Agriculture; “Rice – Duck Farming’ ni Fr. Joel Lusat; ug ang ‘Onion Bulb Production for Jollibee’ nga gihatag ni G. Halasan sa Impasug-ong, Bukidnon ug sa iyang kauban sa CRS.
Sulod sa panagtigum, Gihan-ay ni Fr. Nathaniel Lerio, ang pangulo sa Ad-Extra Ministry-Social Action Center, ang mga gidamgo sa mga mag-uuma sa ilang tagsa-tagsa ka parokya ug sa Distrito sa Simbahan diin usab nahasubay sa plano sa SAM ilabina ang pagmugna sa Demo Farm sa kada Distrito sa simbahan diin ang mga mag-uuma magtoon.
Gitapos ang panagtigum pinaagi sa pag-suroy, isip pag-toon sa Agro-Forestry Demo Farm sa MOSCAT, Barros’ Dairy Farm ug Mercado’s Farm.
Malampusong gipahigayon ang unang panagtigum sa mga mag-uuma sa arkidiyosesis niaadtong Octubre 29 ug 30 sa parokya sa Birhen sa Lourdes sa lungsod sa Claveria. Kiniing unang panagtigum midala sa tema, ‘Malahutayong Pag-panguma, Haum ug Tubag sa Nagka-usab Usab nga Panahon. Si Rev. Fr. Rene D. Soldevilla, ang pangulo sa Sustainable Agriculture Ministry (SAM) miulbo sa kalipay sa nakita nga mga mag-uuma, pangulo sa SAM ug Social Action Center (SAC) sa nagkalain-laing parokya nga mikabat menos o kulang sa usa ka gatos.
Sa maong panagtigum, gipakita ni Arsobispo Antonio Ledesma ang iyang dakong gugma sa mag-uuma diin siya usa sa mamumulong.
Ang mahal nga Obispo misangpit sa mga ka puntos sa ‘Espirituhanong Gabayan sa Kinabuhi’ sama sa: ang kinaiyahan gasa sa Dios; ang kinaiyahan alang sa kinatibuk-an nga kaayohan sa tanan; ang tanang katawhan responsable ug dunay kaakohan isip piniyalan sa Dios sa kinaiyahan; ug usab, ang kalambuan sa tawo nakahan-ay diha sa iyang pagtoo sa Dios.
Dinhi usab nga panagtigum, gipirmahan sa Claveria Technical Coordinating Committee (CTCC) ang ‘Memorandum of Understanding’diin ang tuyo mao ang paglantaw sa kalambuan sa ‘Pilot Project’ sa Arkidiyosesis nga gidala sa Sustainable Agriculture Ministry sa parokya sa Birhen sa Lourdes nga mao ang ‘Bridging Claveria Small Farmers to Jollibee Supply Chain.’ Kining proyekto nga gidamgo ni Arsobispo Ledesma nga alang sa mga mag-uuma sa Arkidiyosesis, maka pa-uswag sa ilang kinabuhi pinaagi sa pag-suplay ug mga abot ngadto sa Jollibee ug ang igsoon niining establisismo nga nag negosyo pinaagi sa “food chain.”
Ang unang panagtigum sa mag-uuma, gisuportahan sa; Department of Agriculture, Municipality of Claveria, Misamis Oriental State College of Agriculture and Technology (MOSCAT), World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF), Landcare Foundation Philippines, Catholic Relief Services (CRS), Our Lady of Lourdes Parish of Claveria, ug ang Archdiocese sa Cagayan de Oro, pinaagi sa Ad-Extra Ministry-Social Action Center. Kini usab ang hugpong nga milambigit sa Claveria Technical Coordinating Committee o (CTCC).
Ang mga pagtoon nga nakahatag ug dakong pag-laum sa mag-uuma nga gipakita sa panagtigum mao ang: “Integrated Pest Management ug Natural Farming Technology and System” nga gihatag nila ni G. Maagad ug G. de los Reyes sa Department of Agriculture; “Rice – Duck Farming’ ni Fr. Joel Lusat; ug ang ‘Onion Bulb Production for Jollibee’ nga gihatag ni G. Halasan sa Impasug-ong, Bukidnon ug sa iyang kauban sa CRS.
Sulod sa panagtigum, Gihan-ay ni Fr. Nathaniel Lerio, ang pangulo sa Ad-Extra Ministry-Social Action Center, ang mga gidamgo sa mga mag-uuma sa ilang tagsa-tagsa ka parokya ug sa Distrito sa Simbahan diin usab nahasubay sa plano sa SAM ilabina ang pagmugna sa Demo Farm sa kada Distrito sa simbahan diin ang mga mag-uuma magtoon.
Gitapos ang panagtigum pinaagi sa pag-suroy, isip pag-toon sa Agro-Forestry Demo Farm sa MOSCAT, Barros’ Dairy Farm ug Mercado’s Farm.
Mga katekista iskolar sa Lourdes College
Ni Sr. Josie Alabado, TMM
Ang Arkidiyosesis sa Cagayan de Oro ug ang Archdiocesan Catechetical Ministry uban sa pagpaluyo sa Lourdes College nagkauyon sa paghimo ug usa ka programa ug kasabutan sa pag-umol sa mga katekista nga mamahimong professional catechists nga magtabang sa atong arkidiyosise. Kini nga programa gisugdan karong tuiga 2010 ug adunay kitay lima (5) ka mga batan-ong nga nakapulos niining maong programa nga nagagikan sa lima ka distrito: Balingasag, Camiguin City East, City West ug Initiao. Sila gitawag ug mga Catechists’ District scholars. Sila usab gibuligan sa mga kaparian sa matag distrito nga naga naka-amot sa ilang financial nga tabang. Kini sila nagkuha sa upat ka tuig nga kurso sa BS in Religious Formation. Gawas sa Academic formation, aduna usab silay Human and Spiritual Formation nga ipahigayon sa Archdiocese Catechetical Formation Team. Dili lang usab sila giumol aron mahimong hanas sa mga Doktrina sa atong pagtoo kondili mamahimo usab silang mamaayong mga katekista ug Kristiyanos. Sa pagkakaron tulo kanila nagpuyo sa Catechetical Center (former deacon’s formation house).
Mao kini ang tubag sa atong gipangandoy nga makabaton ug mga professional nga ketekista. Adunay daghan nga nagtinguha ug interesado sa maong program apan lima ra gayud ang nakuha human sa upat (4) ka screening nga gihimo. Mapasalamaton kita niini nga programa uban sa pagbulig sa atong talahurong Arsobispo Most Rev. Antonio J. Ledesma, S.J., D.D. nga maoy nagduso niini. Mapasalamaton usab kita tungod kay dili lang nga sila makatabang sa catechetical ministry kondili kita usab makatabang alang niining mga batan-on nga nagtinguha nga makahuman og kurso. Kini mao na gayud ang matag tuig nga programa sa atong Arkidioseses.
Ang Arkidiyosesis sa Cagayan de Oro ug ang Archdiocesan Catechetical Ministry uban sa pagpaluyo sa Lourdes College nagkauyon sa paghimo ug usa ka programa ug kasabutan sa pag-umol sa mga katekista nga mamahimong professional catechists nga magtabang sa atong arkidiyosise. Kini nga programa gisugdan karong tuiga 2010 ug adunay kitay lima (5) ka mga batan-ong nga nakapulos niining maong programa nga nagagikan sa lima ka distrito: Balingasag, Camiguin City East, City West ug Initiao. Sila gitawag ug mga Catechists’ District scholars. Sila usab gibuligan sa mga kaparian sa matag distrito nga naga naka-amot sa ilang financial nga tabang. Kini sila nagkuha sa upat ka tuig nga kurso sa BS in Religious Formation. Gawas sa Academic formation, aduna usab silay Human and Spiritual Formation nga ipahigayon sa Archdiocese Catechetical Formation Team. Dili lang usab sila giumol aron mahimong hanas sa mga Doktrina sa atong pagtoo kondili mamahimo usab silang mamaayong mga katekista ug Kristiyanos. Sa pagkakaron tulo kanila nagpuyo sa Catechetical Center (former deacon’s formation house).
Mao kini ang tubag sa atong gipangandoy nga makabaton ug mga professional nga ketekista. Adunay daghan nga nagtinguha ug interesado sa maong program apan lima ra gayud ang nakuha human sa upat (4) ka screening nga gihimo. Mapasalamaton kita niini nga programa uban sa pagbulig sa atong talahurong Arsobispo Most Rev. Antonio J. Ledesma, S.J., D.D. nga maoy nagduso niini. Mapasalamaton usab kita tungod kay dili lang nga sila makatabang sa catechetical ministry kondili kita usab makatabang alang niining mga batan-on nga nagtinguha nga makahuman og kurso. Kini mao na gayud ang matag tuig nga programa sa atong Arkidioseses.
St. Eymard’s Bone Relic visits ACDO
By Fr. Joel R. Lasutaz, SSS
The Pilgrimage of the Bone Relic of St. Peter Julian Eymard, the Modern Apostle of the Eucharist and Founder of the Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament received a warm welcome from parishioners of the Sacred Heart Parish when it arrived last September 24, 2010 from Davao with Fr. Frankie de los Reyes, SSS, who led the delegation of mostly members of the Life in the Eucharist Seminar (LITES) team.
The relic was welcomed at the Stigmatines Seminary in Upper Puerto with a motorcade from the seminary to the Archdiocesan Shrine of the Holy Eucharist (ASHE), R.N. Pelaez Blvd., Kauswagan, Cagayan de Oro City.
During the Mass, the shrine was filled with pilgrims who attended the Holy Hour and the veneration of the relic.
The pilgrimage was in celebration of St. Eymard’s 200th birthday on February 4, 2011 and his baptism anniversary on February 5, which for St. Eymard is far more significant than his day of birth. The pilgrimage is done to proclaim his message “to set the four corners of the world on fire with eucharistic love”.
St. Eymard’s message of Eucharistic Love resounds until these days. He desired to be embraced by Jesus’ love in the Eucharist. His belief in Divine Love celebrated in the Eucharist and contemplated in Adoration before the Blessed Sacrament exposed made him the Apostle of the Eucharist when he was canonized a saint in December 9, 1962 by Pope John XXIII at the end of the First Session of the Second Vatican Council. It was this Council of the Church that declared the “Eucharist is the Source and Summit of Christian Life” (Lumen Gentium 11) following St. Eymard’s Eucharistic Spirituality and Theology.
St. Eymard’s Bone Relic visited the churches of Jesus Nazareno (Lapasan), San Antonio de Padua (Nazareth), the Cathedral, Eco Church (Kauswagan), Our Lady of Mount Carmel (Carmen), Sto. Niño de Oro (Cogon) at ASHE, Immaculate Conception (Bulua) and Nuestra Señora Virgen del Rosario (Consolacion). It was also venerated during the culmination of the City West District Catechetical Month at Country Village Hotel.
The Relic was brought to Manila and accompanied the Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament during their Amplified Provincial Council Meeting attended by Parish Priests and Local Superiors of SSS Communities nationwide last October 18-22, 2010.
Pastoring the earth
Fr. Casibjorn Quiacao, SSJV
With fatherly greetings, Pope Benedict XVI challenged all faithful in his New Year’s Day letter for the 43rd World Day of Peace, “If You Want to Cultivate Peace, Protect Creation.” Sixteen days after this letter’s release he wrote another one in anticipation of World Communications Sunday (May 16, 2010), specifically addressed to priests. The theme Pope Benedict chose was: “The Priest and Pastoral Ministry in a Digital World: New Media at the Service of the Word.” The significance and the relation of these two letters set the atmosphere of the Signis Asia Assembly 2010, an international meeting of social communicators and media-related apostolate from various countries in Asia held on September 20-24, 2010, in Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia. The Archdiocesan Social Communications Apostolate (ASCA) of Cagayan de Oro was among the few select Filipino Catholic media organizations representing the Philippines at the assembly.
This is the context of this short reflection.
For starters, while this is not an exhaustive article intended to assess our pastoral approaches concerning an issue at hand, namely, that on pertinent ecological problems vis-a-vis our parochial/archdiocesan pastoral efforts - this is a reflection aimed at an advocacy. An advocacy towards choosing a fundamental compelling pastoral consideration on the issues of environment, such a one consideration that will determine all of the other pastoral priorities we make or maybe our ministerial life as a whole.
It sounds overly monumental, but in truth, it is very simple.
1. Listening to the voice of the earth. Pope Benedict is more and more vocal of his concern about protecting the environment – so that even during his vacation in 2007 in the northern mountains of Italy in front of 400 priests, deacons and seminarians from the region, he expressed his thought with a tone of urgency – “Our Earth is talking to us and we must listen to it and decipher its message if we want to survive.” Ecojustice, or justice for the Earth, has its basis in the fundamental truth that all of the natural world, every living thing has intrinsic value, hence they ought to be given the appropriate respect and rights, including the right to be heard. Because when we remain deaf to the rumblings of the earth, it might speak to us in forms of worldwide natural cataclysm being observed now as an everyday reality.
The continual deforestation at an alarming and unsustainable pace leading to the destruction of thousands of species of flora and fauna, the ongoing careless and profligate use of these natural resources, including our lands and seas, certainly confirm our lost contact with the Divine whose being we all share in a web of unity. Understanding this vital connection, St. Paul wrote to remind us that it is in Christ, the image of the invisible God, that we live and have our being: “For in him were created all things in heaven and on earth, the visible and the invisible... all things were created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together” (Col 1:16-17). Meaning, even the obscure bush and shrub at our very door have their beginnings in Christ and sustained in Christ.
What are the practical implications of this?
2. An effective shift in mentality. Pope Benedict considers protecting the environment a moral issue. During his annual address last January before diplomats to the Holy See from over 170 nations, the Holy Father denounced how world leaders at the Copenhagen climate change summit failed to address the issue. He decried, “How can we forget, that the struggle for access to natural resources is one of the causes of a number of conflicts in Africa, as well as a continuing threat elsewhere?” Calling for an adoption of a new lifestyle through an effective shift of mentality, the Pope in his encyclical ‘Caritas in Veritate’ (Charity in Truth) charges every Catholic to assert it in public spheres and in personal lives.
Therefore, enlightened by these, we should start examining our pastoral activities and personal choices through the lens of faith. So that while we “think globally, we act locally”, we cannot encase our parishes, archdiocese in isolation from the few sincere concerned people. Shifting paradigms demands not only inner conversion, but visible, credible examples – the organic farm in Agay-ayan, Gingoog Parish; the mangrove replanting by an NGO in Taytay, El Salvador; Fr. Roger Almonia’s efforts of preserving the last standing trees in the mountains of Anakan, and thankfully, so much more.
3. Voluntary simplicity. The preservation of the created world has now become an indispensable prerequisite in the preservation of peace and coexistence of humankind, meaning – no food, no peace. The Jewish notion of peace, Shalom – “the wholeness of right relations with the goodness of creation” – inspires us to take wholeness as the measure of life in abundance which is not essentially and primarily material. It is rather the stewardship, an extension of compassion to the entire created world, leading us to greater equity and unity. So that as we pray the Our Father and ask for ‘our daily bread’, we remember that this bread didn’t just jump onto our table but is acquired through a complicated process that has both economic and ecological implications. This is the very reason why our pastoral activities, and even food decisions at that, ought to be faith decisions. We celebrate food as sacramental, the bread and wine has come a very long way towards the table of the Lord, but nevertheless has arrived on time. We rely on this, the Lord provides - hence voluntary simplicity has become for us a pastoral value of inestimable measure. And in the end, as the Lord communicates himself to us in the simple form of the bread and wine, so shall the Earth speak to us through abundance, even satisfying our wayward curiosity. And we will journey through the fields, tread no longer upon the ordinary bush, but stand on holy ground.
With fatherly greetings, Pope Benedict XVI challenged all faithful in his New Year’s Day letter for the 43rd World Day of Peace, “If You Want to Cultivate Peace, Protect Creation.” Sixteen days after this letter’s release he wrote another one in anticipation of World Communications Sunday (May 16, 2010), specifically addressed to priests. The theme Pope Benedict chose was: “The Priest and Pastoral Ministry in a Digital World: New Media at the Service of the Word.” The significance and the relation of these two letters set the atmosphere of the Signis Asia Assembly 2010, an international meeting of social communicators and media-related apostolate from various countries in Asia held on September 20-24, 2010, in Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia. The Archdiocesan Social Communications Apostolate (ASCA) of Cagayan de Oro was among the few select Filipino Catholic media organizations representing the Philippines at the assembly.
This is the context of this short reflection.
For starters, while this is not an exhaustive article intended to assess our pastoral approaches concerning an issue at hand, namely, that on pertinent ecological problems vis-a-vis our parochial/archdiocesan pastoral efforts - this is a reflection aimed at an advocacy. An advocacy towards choosing a fundamental compelling pastoral consideration on the issues of environment, such a one consideration that will determine all of the other pastoral priorities we make or maybe our ministerial life as a whole.
It sounds overly monumental, but in truth, it is very simple.
1. Listening to the voice of the earth. Pope Benedict is more and more vocal of his concern about protecting the environment – so that even during his vacation in 2007 in the northern mountains of Italy in front of 400 priests, deacons and seminarians from the region, he expressed his thought with a tone of urgency – “Our Earth is talking to us and we must listen to it and decipher its message if we want to survive.” Ecojustice, or justice for the Earth, has its basis in the fundamental truth that all of the natural world, every living thing has intrinsic value, hence they ought to be given the appropriate respect and rights, including the right to be heard. Because when we remain deaf to the rumblings of the earth, it might speak to us in forms of worldwide natural cataclysm being observed now as an everyday reality.
The continual deforestation at an alarming and unsustainable pace leading to the destruction of thousands of species of flora and fauna, the ongoing careless and profligate use of these natural resources, including our lands and seas, certainly confirm our lost contact with the Divine whose being we all share in a web of unity. Understanding this vital connection, St. Paul wrote to remind us that it is in Christ, the image of the invisible God, that we live and have our being: “For in him were created all things in heaven and on earth, the visible and the invisible... all things were created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together” (Col 1:16-17). Meaning, even the obscure bush and shrub at our very door have their beginnings in Christ and sustained in Christ.
What are the practical implications of this?
2. An effective shift in mentality. Pope Benedict considers protecting the environment a moral issue. During his annual address last January before diplomats to the Holy See from over 170 nations, the Holy Father denounced how world leaders at the Copenhagen climate change summit failed to address the issue. He decried, “How can we forget, that the struggle for access to natural resources is one of the causes of a number of conflicts in Africa, as well as a continuing threat elsewhere?” Calling for an adoption of a new lifestyle through an effective shift of mentality, the Pope in his encyclical ‘Caritas in Veritate’ (Charity in Truth) charges every Catholic to assert it in public spheres and in personal lives.
Therefore, enlightened by these, we should start examining our pastoral activities and personal choices through the lens of faith. So that while we “think globally, we act locally”, we cannot encase our parishes, archdiocese in isolation from the few sincere concerned people. Shifting paradigms demands not only inner conversion, but visible, credible examples – the organic farm in Agay-ayan, Gingoog Parish; the mangrove replanting by an NGO in Taytay, El Salvador; Fr. Roger Almonia’s efforts of preserving the last standing trees in the mountains of Anakan, and thankfully, so much more.
3. Voluntary simplicity. The preservation of the created world has now become an indispensable prerequisite in the preservation of peace and coexistence of humankind, meaning – no food, no peace. The Jewish notion of peace, Shalom – “the wholeness of right relations with the goodness of creation” – inspires us to take wholeness as the measure of life in abundance which is not essentially and primarily material. It is rather the stewardship, an extension of compassion to the entire created world, leading us to greater equity and unity. So that as we pray the Our Father and ask for ‘our daily bread’, we remember that this bread didn’t just jump onto our table but is acquired through a complicated process that has both economic and ecological implications. This is the very reason why our pastoral activities, and even food decisions at that, ought to be faith decisions. We celebrate food as sacramental, the bread and wine has come a very long way towards the table of the Lord, but nevertheless has arrived on time. We rely on this, the Lord provides - hence voluntary simplicity has become for us a pastoral value of inestimable measure. And in the end, as the Lord communicates himself to us in the simple form of the bread and wine, so shall the Earth speak to us through abundance, even satisfying our wayward curiosity. And we will journey through the fields, tread no longer upon the ordinary bush, but stand on holy ground.
Signis Asia Assembly underscores environmental protection
By Mary Anne Padilla, FSP
Social Communications Apostolate of the archdiocese represented by Sr. Mary Anne Padilla, FSP together with Rev. Fr. Casibjorn Quiacao participated in the Signis Asia Assembly 2010 (SAA) in Surabaya, Indonesia last September 20-24, 2010. The Theme chosen for this year's assembly “Cultivate Peace, Protect Creation: Media's Role” was inspired by Pope Benedict XVI's message for World Day of Peace on January 10, 2010. The Pope said, “The environment must be seen as God's gift, and the use we make of it entails a shared responsibility for all humanity, especially the poor and future generations.”
Augustine Loorthusamy, in an address from the Signis World President heeds the pontiff's call for environmental protection interconnecting with cultivating peace. Aware of the many problems relating to man's natural environment, such as the abuse of natural resources led to climate change and catastrophic calamities, he urged all delegates and participants coming from various countries in Asia to bring in more media professionals and practitioners to their country's Signis to work collectively for peace and protection of creation.
Antonio and Elizabeth de Castro, founders of Earthworm Sanctuary, Quezon City, Philippines, keynote speakers for the first day of the conference spoke of the value of Vermiculture, an artificial rearing or cultivation of earthworms and uses worm's vermicompost for organic farming, which not only converts garbage into valuable manure but also keeps the environment healthy. Vermiculture, a newly introduced technology, counters inorganic fertilizers and consequently prevents cancer risks in consumers.
Mr. Errol Jonathans, deputy general manager of Surabaya Radio Station and speaker for the second day of the conference emphasized Media's role in cultivating peace and protecting creation. Citing Pope Benedict XVI's passage, he said “Media play a great role and responsibility in protecting the environment.”
Prevalent suggestions raised after the second day's group discussion were to come up with a common media project on environmental protection translated into different languages and share it to the different countries in Asia where Signis is established. Others also mentioned that available materials at hand can also be shared for other countries.
The third day set for local Radio and TV immersion, the delegates and observers were first brought to the district of Sidoarjo, a place where the Lapindo mudflow has caused havoc in the area since December 2006. The disastrous mud flow was the result of human error performed by an oil drilling company Lapindo Brantas Inc.
During the mudflow tragedy, the Church jointly working with the local media in the area played a significant role in awakening people's consciousness of their role and responsibility toward creation. This responsibility saves mankind from the danger of self-destruction.
The assembly continued with two day assessment reports of Signis members from South Asia, South East Asia and East Asia. A concelebrated Mass was presided by Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli, Apostolic Nuncio to Indonesia at the Sacred Heart Cathedral in Surabaya to conclude the five-day meeting of Asian Catholic Communicators, the other name of Signis Asia.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Illegal mining persists in hinterland barangays
Church workers from the parishes of Dansolihon and Taglimao have reported that environmentally destructive mining still persists in their respective areas despite a citywide mining ban declared in 2009 by then-Mayor Constantino Jaraula.
During a watershed preservation workshop conferred by Abp. Antonio J. Ledesma, S.J., a Dansolihon church worker stated that a big mining firm, which she refused to name, is still conducting activities in her neighborhood, having bribed the Higaonon locals for their silence. A church worker from Taglimao reported that another mining company does its blasting for copper and gold from boulders every night.
Abp. Ledesma responded by stating that the city government should investigate all concerned mining firms.
Besides the two barangays already named, illegal mining activities also persist unhindered in Mambuaya, Tagpangi, Tuburan and Tumpagon.
During a watershed preservation workshop conferred by Abp. Antonio J. Ledesma, S.J., a Dansolihon church worker stated that a big mining firm, which she refused to name, is still conducting activities in her neighborhood, having bribed the Higaonon locals for their silence. A church worker from Taglimao reported that another mining company does its blasting for copper and gold from boulders every night.
Abp. Ledesma responded by stating that the city government should investigate all concerned mining firms.
Besides the two barangays already named, illegal mining activities also persist unhindered in Mambuaya, Tagpangi, Tuburan and Tumpagon.
Initao District midaog sa Bible Quiz
Ni Mark Harvey Elloren
Nagmaya ang Initao District sa ilang pagkadaog sa Archdiocesan Family Bible Quiz niadtong Oktobre 16, 2010 didto sa Lourdes College Auditorium, Cagayan de Oro City. Gipildi sa Abaday Family ug Plaga Family nga gikan sa Initao District ang napulo ka pamilya nga gikan sa laing distrito sa arkidiyosesis.
Ang Bible Quiz usa ka programa sa Archdiocesan Bible Apostolate nga gipangulohan ni Fr. Michael Fabello. Inabagan kini sa Episcopal Biblical Apostolate team nga gikan pa sa Manila ug maoy nagbuhat sa mga pangutana alang sa Bible Quiz. Sila gipangulohan ni Fr. Paul Marquez, SSP, editor sa Sambuhay ug manunulat sa CBCP Monitor.
Ang Quiz may lima ka rawon ug sa usa ka rawon may napulo ka mga pangutana nga gikan gayod sa Bibliya.
May walo ka eskwelahang Katoliko ang niapil sa maong Biblle Quiz. Sa High School Level Competition, migawas ang unang mananaog, ang St. Mary’s School sa Aluba, Macasandig. Gisundan kini sa St. Joseph Academy sa El Salvador ug sunod ang Lourdes College High School.
Si Fr. Fabello nagaiingon na ang Bible Quiz sa High School level makatabang sa pagsuta sa kapasidad sa mga tunghaan sa ilang Katolikanhong edukasyon. Si Fr. Perseus Cabunoc, SSJV, ang Ad Intra Coordinator, nagaiingon nga usa ka “encouragement” ang Bible Quiz sa mga batan-on sa pagbasa sa Balaan nga Kasulatan. Si Fr. Eddie V. Magtrayo, Catechtical Director, nagaingon, “Ignorance of the Bible is ignorance of Christ.” Mao kini ang tumong sa Bible Quiz; alang pagpaila kang Kristo ug kalambigitan sa Bibliya sa Kristohanonong kinabuhi.
Nagmaya ang Initao District sa ilang pagkadaog sa Archdiocesan Family Bible Quiz niadtong Oktobre 16, 2010 didto sa Lourdes College Auditorium, Cagayan de Oro City. Gipildi sa Abaday Family ug Plaga Family nga gikan sa Initao District ang napulo ka pamilya nga gikan sa laing distrito sa arkidiyosesis.
Ang Bible Quiz usa ka programa sa Archdiocesan Bible Apostolate nga gipangulohan ni Fr. Michael Fabello. Inabagan kini sa Episcopal Biblical Apostolate team nga gikan pa sa Manila ug maoy nagbuhat sa mga pangutana alang sa Bible Quiz. Sila gipangulohan ni Fr. Paul Marquez, SSP, editor sa Sambuhay ug manunulat sa CBCP Monitor.
Ang Quiz may lima ka rawon ug sa usa ka rawon may napulo ka mga pangutana nga gikan gayod sa Bibliya.
May walo ka eskwelahang Katoliko ang niapil sa maong Biblle Quiz. Sa High School Level Competition, migawas ang unang mananaog, ang St. Mary’s School sa Aluba, Macasandig. Gisundan kini sa St. Joseph Academy sa El Salvador ug sunod ang Lourdes College High School.
Si Fr. Fabello nagaiingon na ang Bible Quiz sa High School level makatabang sa pagsuta sa kapasidad sa mga tunghaan sa ilang Katolikanhong edukasyon. Si Fr. Perseus Cabunoc, SSJV, ang Ad Intra Coordinator, nagaiingon nga usa ka “encouragement” ang Bible Quiz sa mga batan-on sa pagbasa sa Balaan nga Kasulatan. Si Fr. Eddie V. Magtrayo, Catechtical Director, nagaingon, “Ignorance of the Bible is ignorance of Christ.” Mao kini ang tumong sa Bible Quiz; alang pagpaila kang Kristo ug kalambigitan sa Bibliya sa Kristohanonong kinabuhi.
CDO St. Joseph Academy writers garner 10 awards
By Fr. Macky V. Ceballos, SSJV
The writers of St. Joseph Academy’s school paper, The Carpenters won 10 awards in the recently concluded Division Schools Press Conference held at Balingasag North Central School, Balingasag, Misamis Oriental on September 30 – October 2, 2010. Contestants from the Elementary Level garnered 6 places while the Secondary Level gathered 4 awards including one in the team event.
The following winners are: Nyssa Angela Jabonga, 3rd place in Feature Writing, and 2nd in Editorial Writing, both in Filipino; Kathleen June Lignes, 2nd in English News Writing; Mariel Dave Giganto, 7th in English Sports Writing; Kayllien Duran, 9th in Feature Writing and 6th place in Editorial Writing, both in English.
In the Secondary Level division, the winners are: Jean Ian Ampoyo, 8th in Sports Writing (English); Vielly Joe Fuentes, 7th in Sports Writing (Filipino); Lyndie Mae Taneo, 2nd in News Writing (English).
Meanwhile, the secondary level was also honored with 5th place in Radio Broadcasting, English category in the persons of Grace Marie Aguilar, Jean Ian Ampoyo, Joseph Martin Buray, Hazel Rowelle Mae Caylo, Vielly Joe Fuentes, Christmi Joy Lomongo, and Lyndie Mae Taneo.
Mrs. Erlinda Dael, DepEd Supervisor for English of the Division of Misamis Oriental, disclosed that only those who won the first four places in the division level will qualify to participate in the Regional Schools Press Conference. Thus, only three students from SJA will qualify to the regional competition: Nyssa Angela Jabonga and Kathleen June Lignes, both from the elementary level, and Lyndie Mae Taneo for the secondary level.
This year’s gathering of campus journalists had the theme: “Campus Journalism as a Catalyst for Change: Achieving the Millennium Development Goals by 2015.” There were around 88 public and private elementary and secondary schools in Misamis Oriental and close to 1,300 participants all over the province.
As School Director and Moderator of the school paper, this writer remarks: “It was an improved performance of the SJA students as compared to last year’s participation of our school in Opol, Misamis Oriental. We got a big leap from last year’s three awards only which did not even qualify to the regional level. It was indeed a good finish.”
The Regional Schools Press Conference (RSPC) will be held in one of the schools in Iligan City on November 18-20, 2010.
The writers of St. Joseph Academy’s school paper, The Carpenters won 10 awards in the recently concluded Division Schools Press Conference held at Balingasag North Central School, Balingasag, Misamis Oriental on September 30 – October 2, 2010. Contestants from the Elementary Level garnered 6 places while the Secondary Level gathered 4 awards including one in the team event.
The following winners are: Nyssa Angela Jabonga, 3rd place in Feature Writing, and 2nd in Editorial Writing, both in Filipino; Kathleen June Lignes, 2nd in English News Writing; Mariel Dave Giganto, 7th in English Sports Writing; Kayllien Duran, 9th in Feature Writing and 6th place in Editorial Writing, both in English.
In the Secondary Level division, the winners are: Jean Ian Ampoyo, 8th in Sports Writing (English); Vielly Joe Fuentes, 7th in Sports Writing (Filipino); Lyndie Mae Taneo, 2nd in News Writing (English).
Meanwhile, the secondary level was also honored with 5th place in Radio Broadcasting, English category in the persons of Grace Marie Aguilar, Jean Ian Ampoyo, Joseph Martin Buray, Hazel Rowelle Mae Caylo, Vielly Joe Fuentes, Christmi Joy Lomongo, and Lyndie Mae Taneo.
Mrs. Erlinda Dael, DepEd Supervisor for English of the Division of Misamis Oriental, disclosed that only those who won the first four places in the division level will qualify to participate in the Regional Schools Press Conference. Thus, only three students from SJA will qualify to the regional competition: Nyssa Angela Jabonga and Kathleen June Lignes, both from the elementary level, and Lyndie Mae Taneo for the secondary level.
This year’s gathering of campus journalists had the theme: “Campus Journalism as a Catalyst for Change: Achieving the Millennium Development Goals by 2015.” There were around 88 public and private elementary and secondary schools in Misamis Oriental and close to 1,300 participants all over the province.
As School Director and Moderator of the school paper, this writer remarks: “It was an improved performance of the SJA students as compared to last year’s participation of our school in Opol, Misamis Oriental. We got a big leap from last year’s three awards only which did not even qualify to the regional level. It was indeed a good finish.”
The Regional Schools Press Conference (RSPC) will be held in one of the schools in Iligan City on November 18-20, 2010.
Land ownership finally awarded to Sumilao Farmers
By Louise Dumas
Most people think that their story started with the first step crossing the boundary of their farms and the highway. To many, their struggle was encompassed by the road which led from Bukidnon to the country’s seat of power in Malacañang. But in their war for social justice, the Sumilao March was only a battle.
The story of the Sumilao farmers actually began when, like the untold histories of Indigenous Peoples of Bukidnon, settlers put up ranches and grazing fields in what had been their self-sustaining communities.
In the late 1930s, Higaonon communities in Sumilao were displaced when a deed of sale was drawn and the Angeles family put up a cattle ranch in their lands. In the 1970s, part of the land went to Salvador Carlos while the 144 hectares – which would be the center of their struggle – were sold to Norberto Quisumbing. In 1990, under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) of Corazon Aquino’s government, the land was declared eligible for distribution to the farmers. But in 1996, because of loopholes in the law, the area was easily reclassified from agricultural to agro-industrial land, exempting it from CARP.
Once more denied their right to the land their forefathers had developed, the farmers staged a hunger strike in front of the Department of Agricultural Reform Central Office in Quezon City. The Office of the President, seemingly relenting, decided to award 100 hectares of land to the farmers. But as if toying with the latter, the order was again revoked and a series of promises that were never fulfilled followed.
Finally, in 2007, the farmers decided to bring their issue beyond their communities and to appeal to the rest of the country for support. They made history when they decided to walk all the way from their farms in Sumilao to personally plead with the president. But despite their historic march, their effort was countered with only a flimsy promise from the government.
This year, the long-sought Certificate of Land Ownership Agreement was finally awarded to them in a program held on October 10. The certificate was personally handed over to PANAW Sumilao Multipurpose Cooperative chairperson Napoleon Merida by DAR Secretary Virgilio de los Reyes.
“The presence of DAR secretary Gil de los Reyes indicated that the new administration intends to complete the agrarian reform,” Cagayan de Oro Archbishop Antonio J. Ledesma, SJ, DD, said. The church had maintained an advocacy support for the farmers through the years of their struggle. Under the new government, many more lands have been identified for distribution under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program Extension with Reforms. Most of these lands are in Negros Occidental, Isabela, Camarines Sur and Bukidnon.
Most people think that their story started with the first step crossing the boundary of their farms and the highway. To many, their struggle was encompassed by the road which led from Bukidnon to the country’s seat of power in Malacañang. But in their war for social justice, the Sumilao March was only a battle.
The story of the Sumilao farmers actually began when, like the untold histories of Indigenous Peoples of Bukidnon, settlers put up ranches and grazing fields in what had been their self-sustaining communities.
In the late 1930s, Higaonon communities in Sumilao were displaced when a deed of sale was drawn and the Angeles family put up a cattle ranch in their lands. In the 1970s, part of the land went to Salvador Carlos while the 144 hectares – which would be the center of their struggle – were sold to Norberto Quisumbing. In 1990, under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) of Corazon Aquino’s government, the land was declared eligible for distribution to the farmers. But in 1996, because of loopholes in the law, the area was easily reclassified from agricultural to agro-industrial land, exempting it from CARP.
Once more denied their right to the land their forefathers had developed, the farmers staged a hunger strike in front of the Department of Agricultural Reform Central Office in Quezon City. The Office of the President, seemingly relenting, decided to award 100 hectares of land to the farmers. But as if toying with the latter, the order was again revoked and a series of promises that were never fulfilled followed.
Finally, in 2007, the farmers decided to bring their issue beyond their communities and to appeal to the rest of the country for support. They made history when they decided to walk all the way from their farms in Sumilao to personally plead with the president. But despite their historic march, their effort was countered with only a flimsy promise from the government.
This year, the long-sought Certificate of Land Ownership Agreement was finally awarded to them in a program held on October 10. The certificate was personally handed over to PANAW Sumilao Multipurpose Cooperative chairperson Napoleon Merida by DAR Secretary Virgilio de los Reyes.
“The presence of DAR secretary Gil de los Reyes indicated that the new administration intends to complete the agrarian reform,” Cagayan de Oro Archbishop Antonio J. Ledesma, SJ, DD, said. The church had maintained an advocacy support for the farmers through the years of their struggle. Under the new government, many more lands have been identified for distribution under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program Extension with Reforms. Most of these lands are in Negros Occidental, Isabela, Camarines Sur and Bukidnon.
Bishops to formally discuss RH Bill with PNoy
By Louise Dumas
Archbishop Antonio J. Ledesma, SJ, DD, cleared that there were no talks in the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) of ex-communicating President Benigno Aquino III because of his support for the Reproductive Health Bill.
Archbishop Ledesma said that in a recent dialogue with the president, together with CBCP President, Bishop Nereo Odchimar, His Eminence Ricardo J. Cardinal Vidal and Bishop Chito Tagle on October 11, PNoy said that he was also against abortion and was for responsible parenthood and informed choice. The government is to provide information for family planning. PNoy reportedly said that the Philippines will not be like Thailand where pro-choice means abortion.
“The meeting was cordial and with a frank atmosphere,” said Archbishop Ledesma. “Hopefully, it will bring about convergence. There is no talk of ex-communication and it was just sensationalized by the media. We are arranging for a more formal dialogue with the president.”
The Reproductive Health Bill is an act providing for a national policy on reproductive health, responsible parenthood & population development. “It is not so much as the macro population issue,” said Archbishop Ledesma. “Rather, it is about helping low-income families to plan the number of their children. Large families are not sustainable. It [reproductive health] is a matter of social science – not of faith and morals.”
In his article, Three Challenges of Humanae Vitae, however, Archbishop Ledesma makes it clear that legislative measures should not ‘infringe on the rights of parents or resort to contraceptive methods deemed contrary to the moral law.’ Citing Humanae Vitae, 12, he stated that ‘These measures tend to devalue the true nature of marriage by artificially separating the “unitive and procreative meanings” of the conjugal act.’
The church approves the active Natural Family Planning Program. In the Catechism of the Catholic Church, it is stated that the Periodic continence, that is, the methods of birth regulation based on self-observation and the use of infertile periods, is in conformity with the objective criteria of morality. These methods respect the bodies of the spouses, encourage tenderness between them, and favor the education of an authentic freedom (CCC, 2370).
The All-Natural Family Planning Program which is implemented through the Christian Family and Life Apostolate, as the name indicates, does not combine natural methods with artificial contraceptives. It includes temperature and mucus methods, sympto-thermal and lactational amenorrhea methods, the Standard Days Method and the Two Day Method.
PNoy, stating that the government would support the approach recommended by the church, however, has no bias for what kind of family planning.
Archbishop Antonio J. Ledesma, SJ, DD, cleared that there were no talks in the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) of ex-communicating President Benigno Aquino III because of his support for the Reproductive Health Bill.
Archbishop Ledesma said that in a recent dialogue with the president, together with CBCP President, Bishop Nereo Odchimar, His Eminence Ricardo J. Cardinal Vidal and Bishop Chito Tagle on October 11, PNoy said that he was also against abortion and was for responsible parenthood and informed choice. The government is to provide information for family planning. PNoy reportedly said that the Philippines will not be like Thailand where pro-choice means abortion.
“The meeting was cordial and with a frank atmosphere,” said Archbishop Ledesma. “Hopefully, it will bring about convergence. There is no talk of ex-communication and it was just sensationalized by the media. We are arranging for a more formal dialogue with the president.”
The Reproductive Health Bill is an act providing for a national policy on reproductive health, responsible parenthood & population development. “It is not so much as the macro population issue,” said Archbishop Ledesma. “Rather, it is about helping low-income families to plan the number of their children. Large families are not sustainable. It [reproductive health] is a matter of social science – not of faith and morals.”
In his article, Three Challenges of Humanae Vitae, however, Archbishop Ledesma makes it clear that legislative measures should not ‘infringe on the rights of parents or resort to contraceptive methods deemed contrary to the moral law.’ Citing Humanae Vitae, 12, he stated that ‘These measures tend to devalue the true nature of marriage by artificially separating the “unitive and procreative meanings” of the conjugal act.’
The church approves the active Natural Family Planning Program. In the Catechism of the Catholic Church, it is stated that the Periodic continence, that is, the methods of birth regulation based on self-observation and the use of infertile periods, is in conformity with the objective criteria of morality. These methods respect the bodies of the spouses, encourage tenderness between them, and favor the education of an authentic freedom (CCC, 2370).
The All-Natural Family Planning Program which is implemented through the Christian Family and Life Apostolate, as the name indicates, does not combine natural methods with artificial contraceptives. It includes temperature and mucus methods, sympto-thermal and lactational amenorrhea methods, the Standard Days Method and the Two Day Method.
PNoy, stating that the government would support the approach recommended by the church, however, has no bias for what kind of family planning.
Stewards of God’s Gift to All Generations
From the documents, we can summarize five major themes that bring out the spiritual-moral context for our discussion on climate change in the Philippine setting.
1) “The environment is God’s gift to everyone.” (CV, 48)
• In nature the believer recognizes the creative activity of God. “Nature expresses a design of love and truth,” given to us by the Creator as the setting for our life. A beautiful landscape can fill us with awe and wonder – a mirror of God’s presence in the world that He has created.
• The biblical message situates the first man and woman in a garden for them to keep and till. And with regard to every created reality, “God saw that it was good.”(cf. Gen. 1:4 f.) Man’s original innocence is best expressed in his vocation to be master of all other created beings in the universe.
2) The environment is a collective good, destined for all. (cf. CSDC, 466)
• All beings are interconnected in an ordered ecosystem that we call the “cosmos.” We are all part of a web of life that reaches out from the smallest creatures to the most complex.
• The environmental value of biodiversity must be adequately protected. Our forests, in particular, help preserve the natural balance among diverse forms of life, including our own.
• The climate itself is a good that must be protected. “One considers relations between human activity and climate change which, given their extreme complexity, must be opportunely and constantly monitored at the scientific, political and juridical, national and international levels.” (CSDC, 470)
• “Care for the environment… is a common and universal duty, that of respecting a common good.” (CSDC, 466)
3) “Human beings… exercise a responsible stewardship over nature.” (CV, 50)
• As stewards, human beings are entrusted by the Creator to conserve the environment, enjoy its fruits and cultivate it in new ways to make it more productive to accommodate and feed the world’s population.
• The covenant between Yahweh and Noah and his descendants after the flood, symbolized by the rainbow (Gen. 9), also connotes a covenant between human beings and the environment – i.e., no longer to destroy God’s creation.
• “One of the greatest challenges facing the economy is to achieve the most efficient use – not abuse – of natural resources, based on a realization that the notion of ‘efficiency’ is not value-free.” (CV, 50)
• Environmental protection at the macro level cannot be assured solely on the basis of financial calculations of costs and returns at the micro level. “The environment is one of those goods that cannot be adequately safeguarded or promoted by market forces.” (CSDC, 470)
• The adverse effects of climate change that we have experienced from recent calamities in Ormoc, Infanta, Marikina, etc. are warning signs and a call for responsible stewardship − particularly with regard to our watershed and river basin areas.
4) “Projects for integral human development cannot ignore coming generations, but need to be marked by solidarity and inter-generational justice.” (CV, 48)
• The adverse effects of environmental degradation often take place in a gradual, cumulative manner that are not immediately noticed until sudden calamities occur. Only then do communities come to realize that the effects are irreversible, affecting future generations.
• Such are the consequences of the loss of bio-diversity and the extinction of various species of wild-life. Likewise, soil erosion from the uplands and the resultant siltation of river beds and destruction of coral reefs are oftentimes irreversible and permanently damage the environment.
• Hence, “the right to a safe and healthy natural environment” is gradually receiving juridical recognition. (CSDC, 468) Likewise, the right of the children of our present generation to inherit and enjoy the blessings of an unspoiled environment has been upheld by the Philippine Supreme Court, a landmark decision that has caught the attention of other countries.
• “Intergenerational solidarity” is thus a moral value we need to uphold – for instance with regard to the search for alternative sources of energy that do not produce a greenhouse effect or global warming altering climate patterns.
5) The Church has a responsibility towards creation and integral human development. (cf. CV, 51)
• “When ‘human ecology’ is respected within society, environmental ecology also benefits.” (CV, 51)
• Human ecology refers to our understanding and appreciation for the dignity of the human person and the inter-personal value of human society. Respect for the person as the subject and goal of development also flows into respect for the environment. “The decisive issue is the overall moral tenor of society.” (CV, 51)
• “The book of nature is one and indivisible: it takes in not only the environment but also life, sexuality, marriage, the family, social relations: in a word, integral human development.” (CV, 51)
• “The way humanity treats the environment influences the way it treats itself, and vice versa.” (CV, 51) Care for the environment invites modern society to adopt new life – styles away from the prevailing spirit of hedonism and consumerism. Culture and nature are thus closely linked. A wholesome human ecology leads to a wholesome natural ecology.
In summary, our concern over the adverse consequences of climate change stems from our appreciation that:
(1) The environment is God’s gift;
(2) It is a collective good that we share with others;
(3) As human beings, we are called to be responsible stewards of God’s creation;
(4) Solidarity and inter-generational justice are key moral principles for our protection and conservation of the environment; and
(5) The Church espouses integral human development that encompasses a wholesome environmental ecology.
Inter-Diocesan College Seminary Assembly gipahigayon sa CdO
Ni Jan Crispin Adrian O. Rayon
Nagkatigum-tigum pag-usab ang mga seminarista sa diyosesis sa Cagayan de Oro, Butuan, Surigao, Tandag ug Malaybalay alang sa ika-lima nga Cagayan, Butuan, Surigao, Tandag, Malaybalay (CABUSTAM) Inter-Diocesan College Seminary Assembly nga nahitabo niadtong Oktubre 15 - 17, 2010 sa San Jose de Mindanao Seminary, Camaman-an, ubos sa tema, “The Call to Nurture the Encounter of the Sacred in the Human Experience Thru Prayer.”
Dako ang kalipay ni Rev. Fr. Othelo Polinar, SSJV, rector sa San Jose de Mindanao Seminary (SJMS) nga mao ang pinaka-una nga nagpasiugda sa tinuig nga kalihukan upat na katuig ang milabay. Sa iyang mensahe, miingon siya “it’s good to be back here, where we all started this assembly…” Ang SJMS ang pinaka-una nga nagdumala sa CABUSTAM Assembly niadtong tuig 2006, ang Golden Anniversary sa SJMS. Gisundan dayon kini pagdumala sa Bukidnon (2007), Surigao(2008) ug Butuan (2009).
Ang unang parte sa kalihukan mao ang makatandog nga pakigpulong ni Rev. Fr. Raul Dael, SSJV sa SJMS chapel. Sa iyang pakigpulong, gipunting niya ang kamahinungdanon sa pag-ampo ilabi na gayod nga ang mga seminarista ang mamahimong mga pari ugma damlag. Gisundan kini sa Santos nga Misa nga gipangulohan ni Rev. Fr. Othelo Polinar, SSJV kauban ang mga seminary fathers sa nagkadaiyang seminary sa CABUSTAM Region. Bibo usab kaayo ang mga participante sa assembliya nga bisag nibundak ang kusog nga ulan ug napalong ang kuryente sa ikaduhang hugna kamulo ang programa, wala gihapon magpapugong ang mga seminarista sa pagpasiklab sa ilang mga talento sa pag-awit ug pagsayaw sa gipahigayon nga Choral Contest ug Interpretative Dance Contest. Naangkon sa St. Peter College Seminary ang unang gantimpala sa Choral contest ug ang San Jose de Mindanao Seminary ang nakakuha sa unang gantimpla sa Interpretative Dance Contest.
Sa ikaduhang adlaw sa panagtigum, gipangulohan ni Most Rev. Fr. Antonio Ledesma, SJ, DD ang Santos nga Misa. Gipunting sa Obispo ang pagtimbang-timbang sa mga prioridad sa kinabuhi isip mga umaabot nga mga pari ugma damlag. Wala usab nawala ang tradiyonal nga sportsfest nga didto gihimo sa Kong Hua High School, Kauswagan. Naangkon sa St. Peter College Seminary ang over-all champion sa Sports fest.
Kapin sa gatos ang mitambong sa gipahigayon nga assembliya. Otsentay sais (86) ka seminarista ang mitambong gikan sa St. Peter’s College Seminary-Butuan (23 kanila gikan sa Tandag Diocese), singkwentay tres (53) ang gikan sa Pope John XXIII College Seminary-Malaybalay, trantay otso (38) gikan sa Maradjao Magbalantay College Seminary-Surigao City ug adunay sitentay siete (77) ka mga seminarista ang gikan sa San Jose de Mindanao Seminary-Cagayan de Oro (18 kanila gikan sa Tandag Diocese).
“Malipayon kaayo ko sa asembliya…Nadasig ko pag-ayo nga magpadayon sa akong bokasyon”, miingon si Mark Tiu, usa sa mga seminarista gikan sa diyosesis sa Surigao nga mitambong sa gipahigayon nga panagtigom. Excited napud ang tanan sa sunod nga CABUSTAM assembly nga pagahimoon didto sa Malaybalay, Bukidnon sunod tuig. Kining tanan gihimo alang sa kalamboan sa bokasyon ug sa paglig-on sa communal life sa mga seminarista sa CABUSTAM.
MSPC XIV - “Word of God in Mindanao: Creation and Peace”
Ni Erdman Pandero
Digos City, Philippines – 213 ka mga deligado gikan sa nagkalain-laing mga diyosesis ug arkidiyosesis sa pulo sa Mindanao ug Sulu ang mitambong sa ika-14 nga Mindanao-Sulu Pastoral Conference (MSPC) nga gipahigayon niadtong Oktubre 18 – 22, 2010 sa Crisbel Crown Center dakbayan sa Digos.
Ang MSPC usa ka panagtigum sa mga Obispo, Kaparian, Kamadrehan ug mga Laygo nga nahisakop sa pulo sa Mindanao ug sa Sulu. Ang unang MSPC nahitabo niadtong Nobyembre 17 – 21, 1971 didto sa Arkidiyosesis sa Davao. Ang MSPC mahitabo kausa sulod sa tulo ka tuig.
Ang atong Arkidiyosesis sa Cagayan de Oro nagpadala og napulo ka opisyal nga mga deligado nga gipangulohan ni Msgr. Columbus Villamil, SSJV (Vicar-General). Uban kaniya mao sila si Fr. Florencio Salvador, SSJV, SLD, (Vicar-Genereal), Fr. Perseus Cabunoc, SSJV (Ad Intra Ministry), Fr. Nathan Lerio, SSJV (Ad Extra Ministry), Fr. Eddie Magtrayo, SSJV (Catechetics), Fr. Roy Barros, SSJV (BEC), Fr. Butch Zayas (SJVTS Vice-Rector), Sr. Mary Anne Padilla, FSP (Social Com), Ms. Myrna Siose (ACCESS), Ms. Ann Pielago (All-NFP), ug Mr. Benny Sy (Alpha, BEC). Si Sr. Padilla wala nakatambong hinuon gipulihan siya ni Bro. Erdman Pandero (Vice-Chancellor).
Ang tema sa ika-14 nga MSPC Word of God in Mindanao: Creation and Peace. Giablihan ang maong kumperensya sa usa ka Santos nga Misa nga gipangulohan sa atong talahuron nga Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines Archbishop Edward Joseph Adams. Sa iyang maanindot ug lawom nga homiliya, iyang gidapit ug gipahinumduman ang mga kaparian nga ang Pulong Sa Dios nga kanunay gibasa ug gisaulog diha sa Santos nga Misa mamahimo untang buhi diha sa kinabuhi sa mga kaparian.
Ang 21 ka mga Obispo, 71 ka mga kaparian, 3 ka mga relihiyosong lalaki, 25 ka mga madre, ug 93 ka mga laygo maiiniton nga gidawat ug gihatagan og luna nga kapapahulayan sa mga foster families. Sulod sa tulo ka adlaw, ang mga deligado masubsob nga namalandong mahitungod sa (1) Pulong sa Dios, (2) ang Kabuhatan ug Kinaiyahan, (3) ug Kalinaw. Gibahin sila ngadto sa 16 ka mga grupo ug uban sa ilang pinili nang daan nga facilitators, ilang gipadayag ang ilang mga pamalandong ug mga kasinatian. Aduna usab Plenary Session ug Synthesis sa matag adlaw.
Usa sa mga maanindot nga punto nga gihatag ni Bishop Romulo T. dela Cruz, DD mahitungod sa Pulong sa Dios mao nga ang Pulong sa Dios Buhi. Kini buhi tungod kay ang Pulong sa Dios adunay (1) tingog (voice), (2) hulagway (face), (3) balay (home), ug (4) nagpadala kanato ngadto sa misyon (sends us to mission). Ang Pulong sa Dios Buhi tungod kay adunay tingog nga nasinati diha sa creation story, sa mga propeta, ug sa mga sulugoon sa Dios, adunay hulagway diha sa atong Ginoong Jesukristo, adunay balay diha sa mga katilingban sa mga matuohon, ug nagpadala sa misyon ngadto sa mga pamilya ug katilingban.
Sa pagtapos sa MSPC XIV, nauyonan sa mga deligado nga ang sunod nga MSPC nga mahitabo sa tuig 2013 pagahimoon sa Arkidiyosesis sa Zamboanga.
Digos City, Philippines – 213 ka mga deligado gikan sa nagkalain-laing mga diyosesis ug arkidiyosesis sa pulo sa Mindanao ug Sulu ang mitambong sa ika-14 nga Mindanao-Sulu Pastoral Conference (MSPC) nga gipahigayon niadtong Oktubre 18 – 22, 2010 sa Crisbel Crown Center dakbayan sa Digos.
Ang MSPC usa ka panagtigum sa mga Obispo, Kaparian, Kamadrehan ug mga Laygo nga nahisakop sa pulo sa Mindanao ug sa Sulu. Ang unang MSPC nahitabo niadtong Nobyembre 17 – 21, 1971 didto sa Arkidiyosesis sa Davao. Ang MSPC mahitabo kausa sulod sa tulo ka tuig.
Ang atong Arkidiyosesis sa Cagayan de Oro nagpadala og napulo ka opisyal nga mga deligado nga gipangulohan ni Msgr. Columbus Villamil, SSJV (Vicar-General). Uban kaniya mao sila si Fr. Florencio Salvador, SSJV, SLD, (Vicar-Genereal), Fr. Perseus Cabunoc, SSJV (Ad Intra Ministry), Fr. Nathan Lerio, SSJV (Ad Extra Ministry), Fr. Eddie Magtrayo, SSJV (Catechetics), Fr. Roy Barros, SSJV (BEC), Fr. Butch Zayas (SJVTS Vice-Rector), Sr. Mary Anne Padilla, FSP (Social Com), Ms. Myrna Siose (ACCESS), Ms. Ann Pielago (All-NFP), ug Mr. Benny Sy (Alpha, BEC). Si Sr. Padilla wala nakatambong hinuon gipulihan siya ni Bro. Erdman Pandero (Vice-Chancellor).
Ang tema sa ika-14 nga MSPC Word of God in Mindanao: Creation and Peace. Giablihan ang maong kumperensya sa usa ka Santos nga Misa nga gipangulohan sa atong talahuron nga Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines Archbishop Edward Joseph Adams. Sa iyang maanindot ug lawom nga homiliya, iyang gidapit ug gipahinumduman ang mga kaparian nga ang Pulong Sa Dios nga kanunay gibasa ug gisaulog diha sa Santos nga Misa mamahimo untang buhi diha sa kinabuhi sa mga kaparian.
Ang 21 ka mga Obispo, 71 ka mga kaparian, 3 ka mga relihiyosong lalaki, 25 ka mga madre, ug 93 ka mga laygo maiiniton nga gidawat ug gihatagan og luna nga kapapahulayan sa mga foster families. Sulod sa tulo ka adlaw, ang mga deligado masubsob nga namalandong mahitungod sa (1) Pulong sa Dios, (2) ang Kabuhatan ug Kinaiyahan, (3) ug Kalinaw. Gibahin sila ngadto sa 16 ka mga grupo ug uban sa ilang pinili nang daan nga facilitators, ilang gipadayag ang ilang mga pamalandong ug mga kasinatian. Aduna usab Plenary Session ug Synthesis sa matag adlaw.
Usa sa mga maanindot nga punto nga gihatag ni Bishop Romulo T. dela Cruz, DD mahitungod sa Pulong sa Dios mao nga ang Pulong sa Dios Buhi. Kini buhi tungod kay ang Pulong sa Dios adunay (1) tingog (voice), (2) hulagway (face), (3) balay (home), ug (4) nagpadala kanato ngadto sa misyon (sends us to mission). Ang Pulong sa Dios Buhi tungod kay adunay tingog nga nasinati diha sa creation story, sa mga propeta, ug sa mga sulugoon sa Dios, adunay hulagway diha sa atong Ginoong Jesukristo, adunay balay diha sa mga katilingban sa mga matuohon, ug nagpadala sa misyon ngadto sa mga pamilya ug katilingban.
Sa pagtapos sa MSPC XIV, nauyonan sa mga deligado nga ang sunod nga MSPC nga mahitabo sa tuig 2013 pagahimoon sa Arkidiyosesis sa Zamboanga.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Paglaum sa mga gagmayng mag-uuma miabot na
Sustainable Agriculture Ministry
Miabot na ang pagla-um sa mga gagmayng mag-uuma pinaagi sa usa ka proyekto nga gipangayo sa mahal nga Arsobispo Antonio Ledesma. Ang proyekto mao ang ‘Bridging Claveria Small Farmers to Jollibee Supply Chain’ nga gitagana sa Catholic Relief Services (CRS) ug gidumala sa Sustainable Agriculture Ministry (SAM) Team nga gipangulohan ni Rev. Fr. Rene D. Soldevilla.
Ang ‘Memorandum of Agreement’ gi-lagdaan niadtong Hunyo 15, 2010 sa atong Arsobispo ug sa pangulo sa CRS, ug ang unang tigum gihimo sa Hunyo 29, 2010 aron sa pag-hapsay sa mga gimbuhaton uban sa CRS Mindanao nga gi representahan ni G. Randy Paler.
Ang mga opisyales sa proyekto mao sila si: Rev. Fr. Rene d. Soldevilla – Project Supervisor, Nelson Tomonglay (lumad sa Claveria) – Project Coordinator ug Famela Rivera – Finance/Administrative Officer.
Ang tumong sa proyekto mao ang pag-sanay sa gilantaw nga 100 ka mga gagmayng mag-uuma aron sa pagtanum sa sibuyas bombay nga gikinahanglan sa Jollibee Food Chain ug usab sa local nga merkado dinhi sa Mindanao, aron ilang kahimtang moharuharay nga mao usab ang panglantaw sa SAM.
Usa ka pagtu-on ang gipahigayon sa unang napulo’g pito (17) ka mga mag-uuma niadtong Hulyo 28, 2010 sa taga CRS ug usab sa mga gilantaw nga tumatabang sa pag-palambo sa proyekto niadtong Hulyo 29, 2010. Ang maong pagtu-on giubanan sa mga NGOs, Academe, LGUs ug GAs nga gitawag ug ‘Site Working Group’ (SWG).
Tungod niini, adunay usa ka ‘Field Study Tour’ nga gihimo niadtong Agosto 17, 2010 didto sa Impasug-ong, Bukidnon aron masinati sa mga mag-uuma, SWG ug SAM Team sa mga paagi sa ug kahapsay kabahin sa proyekto nga gisugdan sa Kaanib Foundation – local NGO partner sa CRS nga nagalihok sa Impasug-ong.
Sa tigum sa Ad-Extra Ministry, miingon si Rev. Fr. Rene Soldevila nga kining proyekto sa Arsobispo, dako kaayong makatabang dili lamang sa mga gagmayng mag-uuma sa lungsod sa Claveria, kon dili sa tanang mag-uuma sa probinsya sa Misamis Oriental.
Matud pa ni Rev. Fr. Rene D. Soldevilla, nga adunay dakong pag-pasundayag o ‘launching’ sa proyekto sa umaabot nga bulan, pagkahuman sa usa ka ‘demo farm’ nga gi-tukod diha sa hawanan sa parokya sa Our Lady of Lourdes Parish sa Claveria. Kining dakong pag-pasundayag tambungan sa mga opisyales sa simbahan nga pangulohan sa atong mahal nga Arsobispo, Msgr. Antonio Ledesma ug mga opisyales sa CRS sa kaulohan ug sa Mindanao.
Miabot na ang pagla-um sa mga gagmayng mag-uuma pinaagi sa usa ka proyekto nga gipangayo sa mahal nga Arsobispo Antonio Ledesma. Ang proyekto mao ang ‘Bridging Claveria Small Farmers to Jollibee Supply Chain’ nga gitagana sa Catholic Relief Services (CRS) ug gidumala sa Sustainable Agriculture Ministry (SAM) Team nga gipangulohan ni Rev. Fr. Rene D. Soldevilla.
Ang ‘Memorandum of Agreement’ gi-lagdaan niadtong Hunyo 15, 2010 sa atong Arsobispo ug sa pangulo sa CRS, ug ang unang tigum gihimo sa Hunyo 29, 2010 aron sa pag-hapsay sa mga gimbuhaton uban sa CRS Mindanao nga gi representahan ni G. Randy Paler.
Ang mga opisyales sa proyekto mao sila si: Rev. Fr. Rene d. Soldevilla – Project Supervisor, Nelson Tomonglay (lumad sa Claveria) – Project Coordinator ug Famela Rivera – Finance/Administrative Officer.
Ang tumong sa proyekto mao ang pag-sanay sa gilantaw nga 100 ka mga gagmayng mag-uuma aron sa pagtanum sa sibuyas bombay nga gikinahanglan sa Jollibee Food Chain ug usab sa local nga merkado dinhi sa Mindanao, aron ilang kahimtang moharuharay nga mao usab ang panglantaw sa SAM.
Usa ka pagtu-on ang gipahigayon sa unang napulo’g pito (17) ka mga mag-uuma niadtong Hulyo 28, 2010 sa taga CRS ug usab sa mga gilantaw nga tumatabang sa pag-palambo sa proyekto niadtong Hulyo 29, 2010. Ang maong pagtu-on giubanan sa mga NGOs, Academe, LGUs ug GAs nga gitawag ug ‘Site Working Group’ (SWG).
Tungod niini, adunay usa ka ‘Field Study Tour’ nga gihimo niadtong Agosto 17, 2010 didto sa Impasug-ong, Bukidnon aron masinati sa mga mag-uuma, SWG ug SAM Team sa mga paagi sa ug kahapsay kabahin sa proyekto nga gisugdan sa Kaanib Foundation – local NGO partner sa CRS nga nagalihok sa Impasug-ong.
Sa tigum sa Ad-Extra Ministry, miingon si Rev. Fr. Rene Soldevila nga kining proyekto sa Arsobispo, dako kaayong makatabang dili lamang sa mga gagmayng mag-uuma sa lungsod sa Claveria, kon dili sa tanang mag-uuma sa probinsya sa Misamis Oriental.
Matud pa ni Rev. Fr. Rene D. Soldevilla, nga adunay dakong pag-pasundayag o ‘launching’ sa proyekto sa umaabot nga bulan, pagkahuman sa usa ka ‘demo farm’ nga gi-tukod diha sa hawanan sa parokya sa Our Lady of Lourdes Parish sa Claveria. Kining dakong pag-pasundayag tambungan sa mga opisyales sa simbahan nga pangulohan sa atong mahal nga Arsobispo, Msgr. Antonio Ledesma ug mga opisyales sa CRS sa kaulohan ug sa Mindanao.
Ang Pagkakabig ni San Agustin: sumbanan sa atong kaugalingon ug katilingbanong pagkakabig
(homiliya ni Padre Boy Salvador, atol sa Misa Concelebrada sa Katedral sa Pangilin ni San Agustin, Aug. 28, 2010)
Sa tuig 1986, ang Simbahan misaulog sa ika-napulo’g unom nga centenaryo sa conversion o pagkakabig ni San Agustin. Sa maong tuiga, si Papa Juan Pablo II mihimo og sulat apostoliko Augustinum Hipponensem. Nahinuklog ako sa pagkaamgo nga sa mao gihapong tuiga 1986, kami nila ni Fr. Raul Sesante ug Msgr. Lolong Isnani naordinahan nga mga pari. Ang maong tuiga gihapon, mahinumduman ninyo, ang tuig sa makasaysayanon ug malinawon nga “Rebolusyon sa EDSA” nga nakausab sa panagway sa Pilipinas. Ang pagkatakdo sa maong mga panghitabo sa usa lang ka tuig daw nagpaamgo kanato nga kon kita, isip mga sumusunod ni Cristo (isip pari ug laygo) ug isip usa ka katawhan, kon kita buot ni-anang malungtaron nga kalinaw ug lawom nga kalipay, kinahanglan nga suhiron nato ang susamang dalan sa conversion nga gilaktan ni San Agustin, atong “Dakung Amahan”.
Image of Our Lady of Fatima from Portugal visits Cagayan de Oro
By Mary Anne Padilla, FSP
The International Pilgrim Statue of the Our Lady of Fatima from Portugal arrived in the Philippines last June 30, 2010. It was brought to the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro last August 11 for the devotees to get close, view and pray to the miraculous image. The image visited St. Augustine Cathedral, San Antonio Parish, Our Lady of Fatima Church in Camaman-an, Jesus Nazareno Parish, Consolacion Chaplaincy, Holy Rosary Parish in Agusan, Sta. Maria de la Candelaria Parish in Tagoloan, Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe Parish in Villanueva, Our Lady of Mount Carmel, and Immaculate Conception Parish in Bulua.
The image also visited other Dioceses in Mindanao such as Tandag, Malaybalay and Iligan. The image has also crossed the Dioceses of Dipolog, Cebu, Dumaguete and the whole of Eastern and Central Visayas. The Pilgrim Visitation started in July 1, 2010 in the Dioceses of Paranaque, Cubao, and the northern parts of Luzon.
The objectives of the visit besides spreading the message of Fatima are: 1. To encourage other Dioceses to start organizing World Apostolate of Fatima - WAF especially in Mindanao 2. To present WAF’s proposed program in each parish and dioceses they visited. Part of their program is to give orientation to the viewing and praying public about the message of Our Lady of Fatima, the reason why the image goes on pilgrim visitation.
Mr. Vincent Aranas, President of the WAF Ecclesiastical Province of Manila, Nida Ruiz, WAF-Pilgrim Visitation head, and the Society of the Angels of Peace in coordination with Msgr. Tex Legitimas, PC, director for youth and adult WAF-CDO and Ms. Mila Mercado. president WAF-CDO organized the visit of Our Lady of Fatima in Cagayan de Oro.
The International Pilgrim Statue of the Our Lady of Fatima from Portugal arrived in the Philippines last June 30, 2010. It was brought to the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro last August 11 for the devotees to get close, view and pray to the miraculous image. The image visited St. Augustine Cathedral, San Antonio Parish, Our Lady of Fatima Church in Camaman-an, Jesus Nazareno Parish, Consolacion Chaplaincy, Holy Rosary Parish in Agusan, Sta. Maria de la Candelaria Parish in Tagoloan, Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe Parish in Villanueva, Our Lady of Mount Carmel, and Immaculate Conception Parish in Bulua.
The image also visited other Dioceses in Mindanao such as Tandag, Malaybalay and Iligan. The image has also crossed the Dioceses of Dipolog, Cebu, Dumaguete and the whole of Eastern and Central Visayas. The Pilgrim Visitation started in July 1, 2010 in the Dioceses of Paranaque, Cubao, and the northern parts of Luzon.
The objectives of the visit besides spreading the message of Fatima are: 1. To encourage other Dioceses to start organizing World Apostolate of Fatima - WAF especially in Mindanao 2. To present WAF’s proposed program in each parish and dioceses they visited. Part of their program is to give orientation to the viewing and praying public about the message of Our Lady of Fatima, the reason why the image goes on pilgrim visitation.
Mr. Vincent Aranas, President of the WAF Ecclesiastical Province of Manila, Nida Ruiz, WAF-Pilgrim Visitation head, and the Society of the Angels of Peace in coordination with Msgr. Tex Legitimas, PC, director for youth and adult WAF-CDO and Ms. Mila Mercado. president WAF-CDO organized the visit of Our Lady of Fatima in Cagayan de Oro.
262nd Death Anniversary of Venerable Ignacia del Espiritu Santo
By Edorni Betita
The Mother Ignacia Movement of Northern Mindanao Region conducted “Ignacian Conferences” on August 22, 2010, from 8:30am to 4:00 pm at St. Mary’s Academy Gymnasium, Carmen to commemorate the 262nd Death Anniversary of Ven. Ignacia del Espiritu Santo, foundress of the Religious of the Virgin Mary (RVM) with the theme “Treasuring the Ignacian Legacy.”
The conference was participated by 692 parishioners and students from Labason, Zamboanga del Norte and Gingoog City, as well as Mother Ignacia Movement units from Bukidnon and Cagayan de Oro City. Forty two RVM sisters also joined the activity.
The first talk was on “ Ignacian choices for Today’s Youth” given by Fr. Raul Dael. He emphasized that Mother Ignacia’s act of disobeying her parents because she was listening to God’s call in her life was not disobedience. He challenged the youth, stating that attending Mass or performing one’s duties may not seem pleasant at first but its impact will be felt when they mature. Fr. Raul passionately shared how the RVM influenced his vocation and those of other diocesan priests who were graduates of RVM schools in Misamis Oriental. The second talk was on Ignacian Courage for Today’s Woman, given by Maria Teresa Echavez, M.D. The talk focused on upholding one’s chastity and that sex will only be expressed in marriage. She challenged the youth to protect and uphold life. The third talk was on Ignacian Faith for Today’s Family given by S. Ma. Lucia G. Lucine, RVM. She stressed the role of the family as the seed bed of faith. More so, the need for the family to be intact. For children, love means time and presence of their parents not provision of material things.
The activity concluded with a Eucharistic Celebration officiated by Fr. Gil G. Escalante.
The Mother Ignacia Movement of Northern Mindanao Region conducted “Ignacian Conferences” on August 22, 2010, from 8:30am to 4:00 pm at St. Mary’s Academy Gymnasium, Carmen to commemorate the 262nd Death Anniversary of Ven. Ignacia del Espiritu Santo, foundress of the Religious of the Virgin Mary (RVM) with the theme “Treasuring the Ignacian Legacy.”
The conference was participated by 692 parishioners and students from Labason, Zamboanga del Norte and Gingoog City, as well as Mother Ignacia Movement units from Bukidnon and Cagayan de Oro City. Forty two RVM sisters also joined the activity.
The first talk was on “ Ignacian choices for Today’s Youth” given by Fr. Raul Dael. He emphasized that Mother Ignacia’s act of disobeying her parents because she was listening to God’s call in her life was not disobedience. He challenged the youth, stating that attending Mass or performing one’s duties may not seem pleasant at first but its impact will be felt when they mature. Fr. Raul passionately shared how the RVM influenced his vocation and those of other diocesan priests who were graduates of RVM schools in Misamis Oriental. The second talk was on Ignacian Courage for Today’s Woman, given by Maria Teresa Echavez, M.D. The talk focused on upholding one’s chastity and that sex will only be expressed in marriage. She challenged the youth to protect and uphold life. The third talk was on Ignacian Faith for Today’s Family given by S. Ma. Lucia G. Lucine, RVM. She stressed the role of the family as the seed bed of faith. More so, the need for the family to be intact. For children, love means time and presence of their parents not provision of material things.
The activity concluded with a Eucharistic Celebration officiated by Fr. Gil G. Escalante.
ECID nagpatawag sa Catholic Peacebuilding Workshop sa CDO
Ni Lorena Dagatan
Ang Episcopal Commission on Inter-religious Dialogue kon ECID sa Catholic Bishop’s Conference sa Pilipinas (CBCP) mipahigayon sa gitawag nga Peacebuilding ug Reconciliation Workshop didto sa Country Village Hotel ning siyudad sa Cagayan de Oro niadtong Agosto 11 ngadto sa 13, 2010. Ang maong workshop misagop sa tema nga “Enhancing the study and practice of Catholic peacebuilding in Mindanao” nga kon badbaron sa binisaya magkanayon: “Ang Pagpalambo sa pagtuon ug kasinatian sa pagpatunhay sa kalinaw sa Mindanaw”. Ang maong Workshop gitambongan sa kap-atan ug pito (47) ka mga partisipante gikan sa mga Diyosises sa Iligan, Malaybalay, Marawi, Pagadian ug sa Arkidiyosises sa Cagayan de Oro. Miabag sa panaghisgot-hisgot mao sila si Rev. Fr. Bob Schreiter, S.J., ug si R. Scott Appleby, Ph.D., sa Catholic Peacebuilding Network kon CPN sa Unibersidad sa Notre Dame, Indiana, U.S.A. Didto usab sa maong panagtigum ang representante sa ECID ug sa Catholic Relief Services kon CRS.
Ang mga partesipante sa maong panagtigum gibahin sa tulo ka grupo. Sa unang adlaw, ang hisgutanan nakatutok sa atong mga biases mahitungod sa mga muslims, ang atong kasaysayan sa Mindanaw ug ang mga pamaagi aron makab-ut ang pag-inilhanay ug pagsinabtanay dili lamang diha sa tagsa-tagsa ka kaugalingong katilingban kon dili diha usab sa atong relasyon sa mga kauban natong mga muslim. Sa ikaduhang adlaw, adunay gipasundayag ang mga tigpasi-ugda sa workshop nga usa ka salida nga nag-ulohan ug, “The Imam and the Pastor”. Pagkahuman sa among salida, gi-aghat ang tagsa-tagsa ka mga miyembro sa matag grupo sa pagpahayag sa ilang mga hunahuna mahitungod sa tema nga gihanyag sa maong salida. Sa ika-tulo ug katapusang adlaw, gituki sa mga partesipante ang mga hagit ug mga tumong ug tinguha sa pagmugna sa kalinaw. Ang mga tumong ug tinguha nga nakita naglangkub sa pagkutay-kutay sa susamang mga tinguha ug mga buluhaton kon networking kauban sa nagkalain-laing mga simbahan, pagpahigayon sa tinuig nga hiniusang panagtigum, ug pagpangita ug igong panalaping suporta alang sa mga umaabot pa nga mga susamang panagtigum ug panahisgot-hisgot.
“Sa akong pagpaminaw sa mga partesipante sa lima ka mga Diyosises, akong nakita nga ang Simbahan nakapahimutang na sa pundasyon sa pagmugna sa kalinaw.” Kini ang pamahayag ni Fr. Schreiter nga midasun usab pagsugyot sa makakunayong edukasyon isip usa ka importanteng solusyon sa problema sa kalinaw sa Mindanaw. Sa iyang kabahin si Dr. Appleby mi-aghat sa paglantaw sa nagkalain-laing pamaagi sa pagpahiluna sa kalinaw, ilabi na kadtong pamaagi nga nakita nga adunay kaayohan nga matataw. Gipangusgan usab ni Dr. Appleby ang pagpasabot sa kahinungdanon sa “evaluation” aron masuta kon asa na taman ang mga nahimo na.
Ang atong Arsobispo sa Cag. De Oro, si Most Rev. Antonio J. Ledesma, D.D. mipadayag sa iyang pasalamat sa lima ka mga Diyosises nga mitambong sa maong panagtigum, ug mi-aghat sa mga partesipante sa pagpadayon sa ilang mga buluhaton tali sa pagpatunhay sa kalinaw dinhi sa Mindanaw.
May mga 19 ka mga partisipante sa atong arkidiyosesis ang niapil sa maong workshop. Mao sila Abp. Antonio J. Ledesma, S.J., Fr. Nathaniel Lerio, Fr. Perseus Cabunoc, Fr. Remel Mag-usara, Fr. Raul Dael, Fr. Othelo Polinar, Fr. Roy Barros, Msgr. Rey Monsanto, Sr. Josephine Alabado, TMM, Sr. Mary Anne Padilla, FSP, Jocelyn Acierto, Ingrid Daba, Anna Leah PIelago, Maristela Camaddo, Dr. Benie Sy, Analyn Banguis, Sr. Grace Barcinas, DC, Fr. Florencio Salvador, ug si Alberto Fabe.
Ang Episcopal Commission on Inter-religious Dialogue kon ECID sa Catholic Bishop’s Conference sa Pilipinas (CBCP) mipahigayon sa gitawag nga Peacebuilding ug Reconciliation Workshop didto sa Country Village Hotel ning siyudad sa Cagayan de Oro niadtong Agosto 11 ngadto sa 13, 2010. Ang maong workshop misagop sa tema nga “Enhancing the study and practice of Catholic peacebuilding in Mindanao” nga kon badbaron sa binisaya magkanayon: “Ang Pagpalambo sa pagtuon ug kasinatian sa pagpatunhay sa kalinaw sa Mindanaw”. Ang maong Workshop gitambongan sa kap-atan ug pito (47) ka mga partisipante gikan sa mga Diyosises sa Iligan, Malaybalay, Marawi, Pagadian ug sa Arkidiyosises sa Cagayan de Oro. Miabag sa panaghisgot-hisgot mao sila si Rev. Fr. Bob Schreiter, S.J., ug si R. Scott Appleby, Ph.D., sa Catholic Peacebuilding Network kon CPN sa Unibersidad sa Notre Dame, Indiana, U.S.A. Didto usab sa maong panagtigum ang representante sa ECID ug sa Catholic Relief Services kon CRS.
Ang mga partesipante sa maong panagtigum gibahin sa tulo ka grupo. Sa unang adlaw, ang hisgutanan nakatutok sa atong mga biases mahitungod sa mga muslims, ang atong kasaysayan sa Mindanaw ug ang mga pamaagi aron makab-ut ang pag-inilhanay ug pagsinabtanay dili lamang diha sa tagsa-tagsa ka kaugalingong katilingban kon dili diha usab sa atong relasyon sa mga kauban natong mga muslim. Sa ikaduhang adlaw, adunay gipasundayag ang mga tigpasi-ugda sa workshop nga usa ka salida nga nag-ulohan ug, “The Imam and the Pastor”. Pagkahuman sa among salida, gi-aghat ang tagsa-tagsa ka mga miyembro sa matag grupo sa pagpahayag sa ilang mga hunahuna mahitungod sa tema nga gihanyag sa maong salida. Sa ika-tulo ug katapusang adlaw, gituki sa mga partesipante ang mga hagit ug mga tumong ug tinguha sa pagmugna sa kalinaw. Ang mga tumong ug tinguha nga nakita naglangkub sa pagkutay-kutay sa susamang mga tinguha ug mga buluhaton kon networking kauban sa nagkalain-laing mga simbahan, pagpahigayon sa tinuig nga hiniusang panagtigum, ug pagpangita ug igong panalaping suporta alang sa mga umaabot pa nga mga susamang panagtigum ug panahisgot-hisgot.
“Sa akong pagpaminaw sa mga partesipante sa lima ka mga Diyosises, akong nakita nga ang Simbahan nakapahimutang na sa pundasyon sa pagmugna sa kalinaw.” Kini ang pamahayag ni Fr. Schreiter nga midasun usab pagsugyot sa makakunayong edukasyon isip usa ka importanteng solusyon sa problema sa kalinaw sa Mindanaw. Sa iyang kabahin si Dr. Appleby mi-aghat sa paglantaw sa nagkalain-laing pamaagi sa pagpahiluna sa kalinaw, ilabi na kadtong pamaagi nga nakita nga adunay kaayohan nga matataw. Gipangusgan usab ni Dr. Appleby ang pagpasabot sa kahinungdanon sa “evaluation” aron masuta kon asa na taman ang mga nahimo na.
Ang atong Arsobispo sa Cag. De Oro, si Most Rev. Antonio J. Ledesma, D.D. mipadayag sa iyang pasalamat sa lima ka mga Diyosises nga mitambong sa maong panagtigum, ug mi-aghat sa mga partesipante sa pagpadayon sa ilang mga buluhaton tali sa pagpatunhay sa kalinaw dinhi sa Mindanaw.
May mga 19 ka mga partisipante sa atong arkidiyosesis ang niapil sa maong workshop. Mao sila Abp. Antonio J. Ledesma, S.J., Fr. Nathaniel Lerio, Fr. Perseus Cabunoc, Fr. Remel Mag-usara, Fr. Raul Dael, Fr. Othelo Polinar, Fr. Roy Barros, Msgr. Rey Monsanto, Sr. Josephine Alabado, TMM, Sr. Mary Anne Padilla, FSP, Jocelyn Acierto, Ingrid Daba, Anna Leah PIelago, Maristela Camaddo, Dr. Benie Sy, Analyn Banguis, Sr. Grace Barcinas, DC, Fr. Florencio Salvador, ug si Alberto Fabe.
SJVTS nagsaulog sa ika-25 nga anibersaryo
Ni Mark Harvey Elloren
Gisaulog sa St. John Vianney Theological Seminary (SJVTS) ang ika-25 nga kasumaran sa pagkatukod niini. Ang kasaulogan gidungan sa tinuig nga Alumni Homecoming niadtong Augusto 23-25, 2010. Giaghat ni Obispo Antonio Ledesma ang 190 ka mga alumni nga niapil sa maong kasaulogan sa dakong pagpasalamat.
Sa 25 ka tuig, ang SJVTS nakapamunga ug 370 nga kaparian nga nag silbi sa nagkalain-lain nga diyosesis sa Mindanao ug Bohol. Saysentay sies nga porsyento (66%) nga kaparian sa atong arkidiyosesis gikan sa maong seminaryo.
Sa unang gabii sa selebrasyon, si Rev. Fr. Celerino Reyes, SJ, ang bag-ong rector sa seminaryo, opisyal nga gidawat ang katungdanan isip rector ug nanaad sa sulod sa misa sa pag-atiman sa seminaryo. Ang installation gipangulohan ni Bp Ledesma uban sa tulo ka Obispo nga si Cardinal Gaudencio Rosales, Bp. Honesto Pacana, ug Bp. Jose Cabantan. Si Fr. Reyes inila na daan sa seminaryo tungod kay napili siya isip Vice-Rector niadtong 1991.
Sa unang higayon karong tuiga, ang seminaryo naghatag ug St. John Vianney Award (posthumously) sa tulo ka tawo nga may dakong kalambigitan sa kinabuhi sa maong seminaryo. Ang mga awardees mao si Most Rev. Patrick Cronin, ang founder sa seminaryo; Rev. Fr. Giuseppe Raviolo, S.J., ang unang rector; ug si Madame Laureana Rosales, usa ka benefactor. Ang awards para kang Bp. Cronin gidawat ni Fr. Patrick O’Donoghue, Provincial Superior sa mga Columbans; kang Fr. Raviolo, si Rev. Fr. Jose Magadia, Provincial Superior sa Jesuits; ug kang Madame Rosales, si Mrs. Fe Juarez, iyang babaeng anak. Ang mga awardees natagaan usa ka estatuwa ni St. John Vianney nga gikulit ni Mr. Antonio Sescon, batikan nga mangungulit.
Paghuman sa awarding ceremony, gisunod dayon ang usa ka monologue nga gisulat ni Ameta Suarez-Tagochi, Palanca Awardee. Ang monologue kay pahinungod kang St. John Vianney, patron sa mga kura paroko. Gibidahan kini sa mga seminarista, mga formators ug mga seminary workers. Ang monologue kabahin sa pagkamaayo ni St. John Vianney ug kalabutan sa iyang kinabuhi sa atong modernong simbahan.
Sa ikaduhang adlaw, gipalawoman ang tema sa selebrasyon, “Rediscovering the essence of Ordained Priesthood through example of St. John Vianney,” ni Most Rev. Gaudencio Rosales, Obispo sa Manila didto sa Grand Caprice Restaurant, Limketkai Center. Gitagaan niya ug pagpatin-aw ang tulo ka importante nga “klase sa hangin” nga maoy makatukmod sa parianong paglayag: mao ang Pulong sa Ginoo, ang Sakramento ug ang Gugma.
Si Bp. Jose Cabantan, Obispo sa Malaybalay ug usa ka alumnus sa seminaryo, gaingon sa iyang homiliya na angay ang alumni nga mga pari mobalik ug magpasalamat sa seminaryo tungod kini nahimong “seedbed” sa ilang bokasyon. Si Bp. Cabantan, sa batch sa “Unang Bunga,” ang unang produkto nga nahimong Obispo sa seminaryo.
Sa iyang Rector’s time sa katapusang adlaw, si Fr. Celerino Reyes nagpahayag sa atubangan sa mga alumni na ang seminaryo nagkinahanglan ug P150 million nga Trust Fund para malungtaron ang pagpadagan niini. Sa kadugayon na sa seminaryo, may mga gambalay nga angay usbon. Nagplano usab ug pag-ayo sa library. Iyang sugyot sa mga alumni na unta makatigum ang usa ka batch ug P1 million para sa seminaryo. Mangita lang ang usa ka alumnus ug 50 ka pamilya sa ilang parokya nga makacontribute ug P1000 para makatigum ug P50,000. Kini dako na ug tabang sa kaugmaon sa seminaryo ug sa mga seminarista.
Ang SJVTS usa ka tunghaan sa teolohiya nga natukod niadtong 1985 una didto sa Manresa. Sa sunod tuig 1986 nabalhin kini sa Camaman-an, Cagayan de Oro City. Gitukod kini sa mga Obispo sa CABUSTAM uban sa giya sa mga Heswita nga maoy nagdumala sa seminaryo ug nagporma sa mga parionon nga nangalagad sa mga diyosesis sa Mindanao ug Bohol. Ang seminaryo gitukod alang tubag sa dinalian nga kinahanglanon sa Mindanao sama sa “Interreligious Dialogue."
Karong tuiga may 80 ka seminarista ang SJVTS.
Gisaulog sa St. John Vianney Theological Seminary (SJVTS) ang ika-25 nga kasumaran sa pagkatukod niini. Ang kasaulogan gidungan sa tinuig nga Alumni Homecoming niadtong Augusto 23-25, 2010. Giaghat ni Obispo Antonio Ledesma ang 190 ka mga alumni nga niapil sa maong kasaulogan sa dakong pagpasalamat.
Sa 25 ka tuig, ang SJVTS nakapamunga ug 370 nga kaparian nga nag silbi sa nagkalain-lain nga diyosesis sa Mindanao ug Bohol. Saysentay sies nga porsyento (66%) nga kaparian sa atong arkidiyosesis gikan sa maong seminaryo.
Sa unang gabii sa selebrasyon, si Rev. Fr. Celerino Reyes, SJ, ang bag-ong rector sa seminaryo, opisyal nga gidawat ang katungdanan isip rector ug nanaad sa sulod sa misa sa pag-atiman sa seminaryo. Ang installation gipangulohan ni Bp Ledesma uban sa tulo ka Obispo nga si Cardinal Gaudencio Rosales, Bp. Honesto Pacana, ug Bp. Jose Cabantan. Si Fr. Reyes inila na daan sa seminaryo tungod kay napili siya isip Vice-Rector niadtong 1991.
Sa unang higayon karong tuiga, ang seminaryo naghatag ug St. John Vianney Award (posthumously) sa tulo ka tawo nga may dakong kalambigitan sa kinabuhi sa maong seminaryo. Ang mga awardees mao si Most Rev. Patrick Cronin, ang founder sa seminaryo; Rev. Fr. Giuseppe Raviolo, S.J., ang unang rector; ug si Madame Laureana Rosales, usa ka benefactor. Ang awards para kang Bp. Cronin gidawat ni Fr. Patrick O’Donoghue, Provincial Superior sa mga Columbans; kang Fr. Raviolo, si Rev. Fr. Jose Magadia, Provincial Superior sa Jesuits; ug kang Madame Rosales, si Mrs. Fe Juarez, iyang babaeng anak. Ang mga awardees natagaan usa ka estatuwa ni St. John Vianney nga gikulit ni Mr. Antonio Sescon, batikan nga mangungulit.
Paghuman sa awarding ceremony, gisunod dayon ang usa ka monologue nga gisulat ni Ameta Suarez-Tagochi, Palanca Awardee. Ang monologue kay pahinungod kang St. John Vianney, patron sa mga kura paroko. Gibidahan kini sa mga seminarista, mga formators ug mga seminary workers. Ang monologue kabahin sa pagkamaayo ni St. John Vianney ug kalabutan sa iyang kinabuhi sa atong modernong simbahan.
Sa ikaduhang adlaw, gipalawoman ang tema sa selebrasyon, “Rediscovering the essence of Ordained Priesthood through example of St. John Vianney,” ni Most Rev. Gaudencio Rosales, Obispo sa Manila didto sa Grand Caprice Restaurant, Limketkai Center. Gitagaan niya ug pagpatin-aw ang tulo ka importante nga “klase sa hangin” nga maoy makatukmod sa parianong paglayag: mao ang Pulong sa Ginoo, ang Sakramento ug ang Gugma.
Si Bp. Jose Cabantan, Obispo sa Malaybalay ug usa ka alumnus sa seminaryo, gaingon sa iyang homiliya na angay ang alumni nga mga pari mobalik ug magpasalamat sa seminaryo tungod kini nahimong “seedbed” sa ilang bokasyon. Si Bp. Cabantan, sa batch sa “Unang Bunga,” ang unang produkto nga nahimong Obispo sa seminaryo.
Sa iyang Rector’s time sa katapusang adlaw, si Fr. Celerino Reyes nagpahayag sa atubangan sa mga alumni na ang seminaryo nagkinahanglan ug P150 million nga Trust Fund para malungtaron ang pagpadagan niini. Sa kadugayon na sa seminaryo, may mga gambalay nga angay usbon. Nagplano usab ug pag-ayo sa library. Iyang sugyot sa mga alumni na unta makatigum ang usa ka batch ug P1 million para sa seminaryo. Mangita lang ang usa ka alumnus ug 50 ka pamilya sa ilang parokya nga makacontribute ug P1000 para makatigum ug P50,000. Kini dako na ug tabang sa kaugmaon sa seminaryo ug sa mga seminarista.
Ang SJVTS usa ka tunghaan sa teolohiya nga natukod niadtong 1985 una didto sa Manresa. Sa sunod tuig 1986 nabalhin kini sa Camaman-an, Cagayan de Oro City. Gitukod kini sa mga Obispo sa CABUSTAM uban sa giya sa mga Heswita nga maoy nagdumala sa seminaryo ug nagporma sa mga parionon nga nangalagad sa mga diyosesis sa Mindanao ug Bohol. Ang seminaryo gitukod alang tubag sa dinalian nga kinahanglanon sa Mindanao sama sa “Interreligious Dialogue."
Karong tuiga may 80 ka seminarista ang SJVTS.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Women’s Ministry, Tubaga Movement picket cybersex trial
“If we hadn’t been constantly drawing attention to this cybersex scandal, they probably would have dropped the case a long time ago,” said Lalae Garcia, coordinator of the Tubaga Movement, a local feminist group with ties to the Archdiocesan Women’s Ministry.
Sr. Erline Bacol, RGS represented the aforementioned ministry during Tubaga’s picketing outside Regional Trial Court 41 on the morning of July 28, 2010, where two Swedes were being tried for coercing 18 girls into performing sexual acts over the Internet.
The girls, aged 19-25, were lured to Cagayan de Oro from all over the Philippines with promises of employment abroad. Instead they were locked up and forced to strip before webcams for paying customers until the police raided the premises in April 2009.
Currently detained in Lumbia Prison, the Swedes and their Filipino cohorts are expected to face another hearing at a date yet to be announced, sometime this year.
Sr. Erline Bacol, RGS represented the aforementioned ministry during Tubaga’s picketing outside Regional Trial Court 41 on the morning of July 28, 2010, where two Swedes were being tried for coercing 18 girls into performing sexual acts over the Internet.
The girls, aged 19-25, were lured to Cagayan de Oro from all over the Philippines with promises of employment abroad. Instead they were locked up and forced to strip before webcams for paying customers until the police raided the premises in April 2009.
Currently detained in Lumbia Prison, the Swedes and their Filipino cohorts are expected to face another hearing at a date yet to be announced, sometime this year.
Archdiocesan Youth Day 2010 gipangandaman
Ang Archdiocesan Youth Apostolate (AYA) nangandam sa umaabot nga Archdiocesan Youth Day 2010 nga ipahigayon sa Holy Cross Parish, Alubijid, Misamis Oriental karong Oktubre 28-31, 2010.
Ang mosunod nga Youth Day opisyal nga gipadayag sa miaging Archdiocesan Youth Leaders and Ministers Forum (AYLMF) sa parokya sa Immaculada Conception, Jasaan, Misamis Oriental niadtong Hulyo 17, 2010. Dunay 89 ka mga batan-ong lider nga gikan sa nagkalain-laing parokya sa arkidiyosesis ang mitambong sa AYLMF. Ang AYLMF usa ka panagtigum sa mga batan-ong lider sa Arkidiyoses matag tulo ka bulan sa tuig. Kining panagtigum usa ka oportunidad sa pag-umol sa mga batan-ong lider aron sila maandam sa pagsagubang sa mga isyu nga giatubang sa mga batan-on. Panahon usab kini nga nagsandurotay ang mga batan-ong lider ug napaambit ang mga kalihukan nga nahitabo sa ilang tag-tagsa ka parokya.
Upat ka mga dugang pagtulon-an ang gihatag sa mga batan-ong lideres niadtong AYLMF: “Bulawanong Ako” nga gihatag ni Loyd Solana; “Clean, Peaceful and Honest Elections” ni Hon. Bernabe Ely, Vice Mayor sa Manticao; “Me, Church, and the State” ni Carl Cabaraban; ug “My Commitment-my Renewal” ni Rev. Fr. Remel Mag-usara. Si Fr. Mag-usara, ang bag-ong Youth Director sa Arkidiyosesis nga nihulip kang Rev. Fr. Nathaniel Lerio adtong Hunyo ni-ining tuiga maoy nangulo sa panagtigum. Gisugyot niya nga sa iyang pagdawat sa katungdanan, nanghinaut siya sa mga batan-on nga mutobo sila sa ilang panaad ug pagtugyan sa ilang kaugalingon sa pag-alagad sa Simbahan.
Sa wala pa mahuman ang AYLMF, gitugyan sa AYA ang pagdumala sa AYD cross sa Parish Youth Coordinating Council-PYCC sa Jasaan nga gipangulohan ni Carl Lloyd Salcedo, ang ilang PYCC Coodinator. Ang PYCC-Jasaan maoy maghatud sa AYD cross didto sa Magsaysay, Misamis Oriental. Kini nga buluhaton usa ka tradisyon diin ang AYD cross mobisita sa tagsa-tagsa ka mga parokya sa dili pa magsugod ang AYD. Ang Archdiocesan Youth Day usa ka panagtigum sa mga batan-on sa tanang parokya sa Arkidiyosesis aron mag-ampo, mamalandong, ug masandurotay. Kini mahitabo kausa sa duha ka tuig. Ang miaging AYD 2008 gipahigayon didto sa St. John Vianney Theological Seminary. Ang tanang mga batan-on gidapit sa pag-apil sa AYD 2010.
Ang mosunod nga Youth Day opisyal nga gipadayag sa miaging Archdiocesan Youth Leaders and Ministers Forum (AYLMF) sa parokya sa Immaculada Conception, Jasaan, Misamis Oriental niadtong Hulyo 17, 2010. Dunay 89 ka mga batan-ong lider nga gikan sa nagkalain-laing parokya sa arkidiyosesis ang mitambong sa AYLMF. Ang AYLMF usa ka panagtigum sa mga batan-ong lider sa Arkidiyoses matag tulo ka bulan sa tuig. Kining panagtigum usa ka oportunidad sa pag-umol sa mga batan-ong lider aron sila maandam sa pagsagubang sa mga isyu nga giatubang sa mga batan-on. Panahon usab kini nga nagsandurotay ang mga batan-ong lider ug napaambit ang mga kalihukan nga nahitabo sa ilang tag-tagsa ka parokya.
Upat ka mga dugang pagtulon-an ang gihatag sa mga batan-ong lideres niadtong AYLMF: “Bulawanong Ako” nga gihatag ni Loyd Solana; “Clean, Peaceful and Honest Elections” ni Hon. Bernabe Ely, Vice Mayor sa Manticao; “Me, Church, and the State” ni Carl Cabaraban; ug “My Commitment-my Renewal” ni Rev. Fr. Remel Mag-usara. Si Fr. Mag-usara, ang bag-ong Youth Director sa Arkidiyosesis nga nihulip kang Rev. Fr. Nathaniel Lerio adtong Hunyo ni-ining tuiga maoy nangulo sa panagtigum. Gisugyot niya nga sa iyang pagdawat sa katungdanan, nanghinaut siya sa mga batan-on nga mutobo sila sa ilang panaad ug pagtugyan sa ilang kaugalingon sa pag-alagad sa Simbahan.
Sa wala pa mahuman ang AYLMF, gitugyan sa AYA ang pagdumala sa AYD cross sa Parish Youth Coordinating Council-PYCC sa Jasaan nga gipangulohan ni Carl Lloyd Salcedo, ang ilang PYCC Coodinator. Ang PYCC-Jasaan maoy maghatud sa AYD cross didto sa Magsaysay, Misamis Oriental. Kini nga buluhaton usa ka tradisyon diin ang AYD cross mobisita sa tagsa-tagsa ka mga parokya sa dili pa magsugod ang AYD. Ang Archdiocesan Youth Day usa ka panagtigum sa mga batan-on sa tanang parokya sa Arkidiyosesis aron mag-ampo, mamalandong, ug masandurotay. Kini mahitabo kausa sa duha ka tuig. Ang miaging AYD 2008 gipahigayon didto sa St. John Vianney Theological Seminary. Ang tanang mga batan-on gidapit sa pag-apil sa AYD 2010.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
XU outreach program sends 7 volunteers 2010-2011
By Mark Harvey Elloren
“Year of Service-YOS is a preparation for further service which is the Parish Ministry.” This is the message of Archbishop Antonio Ledesma, SJ to seven Philosophy graduates as volunteers for the Year of Service (YOS) Batch 17 during the sending off Mass last July 14, 2010 at the Immaculate Conception Chapel, Xavier University. Archbishop Ledesma celebrated the sending off Mass with the Seminary Fathers of San Jose de Mindanao Seminary and some Parish Priests.
Xavier University’s Community Outreach and Resource Development Volunteer Program (CORDVP), the new name for YOS, is a one year program for fresh college graduates to work for development of rural sector and communities.
In his homily, the Archbishop who was the founder of YOS way back 1991, reminded the seven volunteers the main objective of YOS is Service. “This is a year for helping the local communities,” he said.
Six of the volunteers are seminarians from San Jose de Mindanao Seminary namely: Aldin Dumio who is assigned in Taglimao, Cagayan de Oro City; Jefferson Opaon in Initao, Misamis Oriental; Bryan Pacanut in Guinsiliban, Camiguin; Julian Raut-raut Jr. in Claveria, Misamis Oriental; Gil Sucupayo in Magsaysay, Misamis Oriental; Mark Joshua Zaportiza in Baliwagan, Balingasag, Misamis Oriental. Chandy May Palas, the only female volunteer , is assigned in Zamboanga Sibugay.
San Jose de Mindanao Seminary recently linked with the CORDVP, sending their seminarians as volunteers before giving them recommendation to study theology.
As part of the preparation, the volunteers were trained for 30 days and were exposed in different local communities in Bukidnon, Agusan del Norte and Misamis Oriental.
CORDVP is sending volunteers yearly as human resource to various NGOs, dioceses and parishes to promote more development in rural communities in Mindanao. This year’s batch is focused more on the development of BECs in the parishes where they are assigned with the help of the Parish Priests as their supervisors.
“Year of Service-YOS is a preparation for further service which is the Parish Ministry.” This is the message of Archbishop Antonio Ledesma, SJ to seven Philosophy graduates as volunteers for the Year of Service (YOS) Batch 17 during the sending off Mass last July 14, 2010 at the Immaculate Conception Chapel, Xavier University. Archbishop Ledesma celebrated the sending off Mass with the Seminary Fathers of San Jose de Mindanao Seminary and some Parish Priests.
Xavier University’s Community Outreach and Resource Development Volunteer Program (CORDVP), the new name for YOS, is a one year program for fresh college graduates to work for development of rural sector and communities.
In his homily, the Archbishop who was the founder of YOS way back 1991, reminded the seven volunteers the main objective of YOS is Service. “This is a year for helping the local communities,” he said.
Six of the volunteers are seminarians from San Jose de Mindanao Seminary namely: Aldin Dumio who is assigned in Taglimao, Cagayan de Oro City; Jefferson Opaon in Initao, Misamis Oriental; Bryan Pacanut in Guinsiliban, Camiguin; Julian Raut-raut Jr. in Claveria, Misamis Oriental; Gil Sucupayo in Magsaysay, Misamis Oriental; Mark Joshua Zaportiza in Baliwagan, Balingasag, Misamis Oriental. Chandy May Palas, the only female volunteer , is assigned in Zamboanga Sibugay.
San Jose de Mindanao Seminary recently linked with the CORDVP, sending their seminarians as volunteers before giving them recommendation to study theology.
As part of the preparation, the volunteers were trained for 30 days and were exposed in different local communities in Bukidnon, Agusan del Norte and Misamis Oriental.
CORDVP is sending volunteers yearly as human resource to various NGOs, dioceses and parishes to promote more development in rural communities in Mindanao. This year’s batch is focused more on the development of BECs in the parishes where they are assigned with the help of the Parish Priests as their supervisors.
ACCESS, XU host water pricing forum
By Louise Dumas
The Archdiocesan Center of Concern, Empowerment and Social Services (ACCESS), in partnership with the Xavier University – Research and Social Outreach Cluster held a forum on the possibility of raw groundwater pricing to improve efficiency in the water consumption of the city.
This was organized particularly after Cagayan de Oro was identified as among the nine cities in the Philippines with anticipated serious groundwater constraints. Representatives from the National Water Resources Board (NWRB) presented a study showing the depletion of the city’s groundwater levels.
“Through raw water pricing, efficient allocation and utilization of water will be promoted,” said Dr. Rosalina P. Tan of the Department of Economics of Ateneo de Manila University. “This is in addition to the generation of revenue that could be used to ensure the sustainability of the water supply.”
The raw water price refers to the depletion cost of water since it is already apparent that this supply is no longer abundant in quantity and quality. “Among the causes of depletion are forest degradation and urban development,” Dr. Tan said. Northern Mindanao was also identified as a hot spot for total dissolved solids (TDS) and coliform contamination.
Dr. Tan also explained that the pricing should not be seen as a fee but as a contribution. “We should all do our part to address this problem,” she said. “Let us view it as a contribution for the conservation of a resource we benefit a lot from.” Luis S. Rongavilla of the NWRB explained that part of the funds will go to the local government unit for local water development such as equipment and monitoring. Only a small percentage will go the NWRB which will allocate the funds for skills training and other necessary preparations.
Participants from Non-Government Organizations, the academe, church, and business sector also suggested other alternatives that would not raise water pricing but bank on people’s consciousness to save water.
Among the solutions was the use of treated rain water for some months in a year to allow the city’s aquifers to replenish. Another had been to promote individual rain catchments that residents and industries could use to utilize rain runoffs. Finally, a suggestion to improve first the distribution efficiency of the water district was raised to reduce the amount of water wasted.
The Archdiocesan Center of Concern, Empowerment and Social Services (ACCESS), in partnership with the Xavier University – Research and Social Outreach Cluster held a forum on the possibility of raw groundwater pricing to improve efficiency in the water consumption of the city.
This was organized particularly after Cagayan de Oro was identified as among the nine cities in the Philippines with anticipated serious groundwater constraints. Representatives from the National Water Resources Board (NWRB) presented a study showing the depletion of the city’s groundwater levels.
“Through raw water pricing, efficient allocation and utilization of water will be promoted,” said Dr. Rosalina P. Tan of the Department of Economics of Ateneo de Manila University. “This is in addition to the generation of revenue that could be used to ensure the sustainability of the water supply.”
The raw water price refers to the depletion cost of water since it is already apparent that this supply is no longer abundant in quantity and quality. “Among the causes of depletion are forest degradation and urban development,” Dr. Tan said. Northern Mindanao was also identified as a hot spot for total dissolved solids (TDS) and coliform contamination.
Dr. Tan also explained that the pricing should not be seen as a fee but as a contribution. “We should all do our part to address this problem,” she said. “Let us view it as a contribution for the conservation of a resource we benefit a lot from.” Luis S. Rongavilla of the NWRB explained that part of the funds will go to the local government unit for local water development such as equipment and monitoring. Only a small percentage will go the NWRB which will allocate the funds for skills training and other necessary preparations.
Participants from Non-Government Organizations, the academe, church, and business sector also suggested other alternatives that would not raise water pricing but bank on people’s consciousness to save water.
Among the solutions was the use of treated rain water for some months in a year to allow the city’s aquifers to replenish. Another had been to promote individual rain catchments that residents and industries could use to utilize rain runoffs. Finally, a suggestion to improve first the distribution efficiency of the water district was raised to reduce the amount of water wasted.
“Preach the Gospel in the Digital World” - Abp. Ledesma
Most Reverend Antonio J. Ledesma, SJ, Archbishop of Cagayan de Oro, echoed the message of the Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI urging his priests to be present in the digital world and communicate the Gospel during the concelebrated Mass on the occasion of the 44th World Communications Day on July 13, 2010, at St. Augustine Cathedral.
In his homily, the bishop pointed out 3 insights from the theme of the Pope’s message, “The Priest and Pastoral Ministry in a Digital World: New Media at the Service of the World.” First, the Theology of Priesthood, second, its Christology, third, the theology of culture. He said that the priest, as a man of God has the primary duty to proclaim who Jesus Christ today. His understanding of Jesus Christ is the focal point of his listening to the Word being proclaimed. One’s culture has to be in line with the Gospel and not the culture of his own interests. He added that the web is a place where the priest can bring Christ’s message to all people, and it is also the place where he can proclaim the new life which comes from the Word.
The mass was also attended by the students and faculty of Communication courses of Xavier University and Lourdes College. Present were representatives from the media namely: The Sunstar Daily, Mindano Gold Star Daily, Mindanao Current, Golden Banner, The Corridor, ABS CBN-CDO, RGMA, RPN5, Bombo Radyo, DXCC, and DXIM Radyo ng Bayan.
The celebration was spearheaded by the staff of Social Communication Apostolate of the archdiocese and the Daughters of St. Paul.
In his homily, the bishop pointed out 3 insights from the theme of the Pope’s message, “The Priest and Pastoral Ministry in a Digital World: New Media at the Service of the World.” First, the Theology of Priesthood, second, its Christology, third, the theology of culture. He said that the priest, as a man of God has the primary duty to proclaim who Jesus Christ today. His understanding of Jesus Christ is the focal point of his listening to the Word being proclaimed. One’s culture has to be in line with the Gospel and not the culture of his own interests. He added that the web is a place where the priest can bring Christ’s message to all people, and it is also the place where he can proclaim the new life which comes from the Word.
The mass was also attended by the students and faculty of Communication courses of Xavier University and Lourdes College. Present were representatives from the media namely: The Sunstar Daily, Mindano Gold Star Daily, Mindanao Current, Golden Banner, The Corridor, ABS CBN-CDO, RGMA, RPN5, Bombo Radyo, DXCC, and DXIM Radyo ng Bayan.
The celebration was spearheaded by the staff of Social Communication Apostolate of the archdiocese and the Daughters of St. Paul.
AWRACO elects new set of Officers for 2010-2011
By Mary Anne Padilla, FSP
The Association of Religious Women in the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro (AWRACO) has elected its new set of Officers for the Calendar Year (CY) 2010-2011 during the AWRACO General Assembly held at the Lourdes College Gymnasium, Macasandig, Cagayan de Oro last July 24, 2010.
The newly elected officers were: Chairperson – Sr. Maria Helen F. Soliven, RVM; Vice Chair - Sr. Maria Marilyn C. Ubaldo, RVM, Secretary – Sr. Mary Grace M. Barcinas, DC; Asst. Secretary – Sr. Ranette L. Angot, ODN; Treasurer – Sr. Rebecca A. Loquias, MCM, Asst. Treasurer – Sr. Angelaine S. Caharlan, OSA.
For the Sectoral Committee Chairpersons the following were elected: Ad Intra Ministries Coordinator – Sr. Janette D. Porras, MSHF; Asst. Ad Intra Ministries Coordinator – Sr. Ma. Vemagrace E. Ragmac, TMM; Ad Extra Ministries Coordinator – Sr. Mary Regina Pil, RGS; Asst. Ad Extra Ministries Coordinator – Sr. Maria Arabella C. Balingao, RGS.
The new officers took their oath of allegiance during the Holy Mass officiated by Archbishop Antonio J. Ledesma, SJ. In his homily, he gave 6 dimensions in working for a culture of peace where the association could focus in their engagement for peace namely: 1. The need for personal and family integrity. Peace has to start in the home to address issues on domestic violence and issues on personal integrity. 2. The promotion of human rights and democracy. There is a need for education in schools and public discourse in government especially on education for responsible voting. 3. To work on poverty reduction. To attend to the basic needs of everyone in society particularly the internally displaced persons. 4. The need for Inter-cultural understanding and solidarity. To appreciate each other’s culture and to come into dialogue between cultures. 5. The need for disarmament and cessation of hostilities, and 6. The need for environmental protection.
The Association of Religious Women in the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro (AWRACO) has elected its new set of Officers for the Calendar Year (CY) 2010-2011 during the AWRACO General Assembly held at the Lourdes College Gymnasium, Macasandig, Cagayan de Oro last July 24, 2010.
The newly elected officers were: Chairperson – Sr. Maria Helen F. Soliven, RVM; Vice Chair - Sr. Maria Marilyn C. Ubaldo, RVM, Secretary – Sr. Mary Grace M. Barcinas, DC; Asst. Secretary – Sr. Ranette L. Angot, ODN; Treasurer – Sr. Rebecca A. Loquias, MCM, Asst. Treasurer – Sr. Angelaine S. Caharlan, OSA.
For the Sectoral Committee Chairpersons the following were elected: Ad Intra Ministries Coordinator – Sr. Janette D. Porras, MSHF; Asst. Ad Intra Ministries Coordinator – Sr. Ma. Vemagrace E. Ragmac, TMM; Ad Extra Ministries Coordinator – Sr. Mary Regina Pil, RGS; Asst. Ad Extra Ministries Coordinator – Sr. Maria Arabella C. Balingao, RGS.
The new officers took their oath of allegiance during the Holy Mass officiated by Archbishop Antonio J. Ledesma, SJ. In his homily, he gave 6 dimensions in working for a culture of peace where the association could focus in their engagement for peace namely: 1. The need for personal and family integrity. Peace has to start in the home to address issues on domestic violence and issues on personal integrity. 2. The promotion of human rights and democracy. There is a need for education in schools and public discourse in government especially on education for responsible voting. 3. To work on poverty reduction. To attend to the basic needs of everyone in society particularly the internally displaced persons. 4. The need for Inter-cultural understanding and solidarity. To appreciate each other’s culture and to come into dialogue between cultures. 5. The need for disarmament and cessation of hostilities, and 6. The need for environmental protection.
Impressions on the International Encounter for Priests on the Occasion of the Closing of the Year for Priests
by Msgr. Rey Manuel Monsanto
I. ON THE PARTICIPATING PRIESTS:
-Touching to see so many priests – secular and religious – gathered together to reflect together for two days (June 9-10) before the official closure of the year-long celebration to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the pious death of ST. JOHN MARIE VIANNEY, THE HOLY CURE D’ARS, who was proclaimed the PATRON OF ALL THE PRIESTS.
-The number of participants went beyond the expectation. Thus, the kits were not sufficient, more had to be added: many did not have the very simple official logo of the gathering anymore; and instead of just having one venue, there were two: 1) the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls (which was originally the only venue; we were in this basilica since the English-speaking groups were here, although the talks were still not in English); 2) the Basilica of St. Mary Major. And the number even became greater (15,000 according to reported estimate) during the final Mass (June 11) at St. Peter’s Square in front of the Basilica of St. Peter.
II. THE ACTIVITIES OF THE TWO-DAY ENCOUNTER (JUNE 9-10) AND THE FINAL MASS ON THE THIRD DAY (JUNE 11):
- THE ACTIVITIES CONSISTED MAINLY OF:
• Reflections on the meaning of and challenges to the priesthood in the light of present circumstances:
■ “Conversion and Mission”
■ “The Cenacle: Invocation of the Holy Spirit with Mary, in Fraternal Communion”
• Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and Benediction
• Celebration of the Eucharist
• Confessions
• On the second night there was the encounter with the Holy Father at the Piazza di San Pietro. Some priests coming from different continents of the worlds asked questions which the Holy Father answered.
• The afternoons were free. The Opera Romana that took care of the running of the encounter offered paid tours to religious places around Rome. (We, the Cagayan group, had our own organized tour, most notably the tour of the Vatican Museum and the Basilica of St. Peter including the visit to the tombs of St. Peter and of the Popes.)
IMPRESSIONS:
• It was really moving to see how the priests, despite the inconvenience of language and not so clear sound system, tried to follow the talks and activities in respectful silence. The attendance in reflective spirit and silence was just impressive. And the long lines for confessions very touching. The priests were even at St. Peter’s Square for that evening with the Holy Father. In short, priests were there to reflect!
III. THE FINAL MASS ON THE THIRD DAY (JUNE 11 – SOLEMNITY OF THE SACRED HEART):
-This was the time when according to estimate there were approximately 15,000 priests concelebrating with the Holy Father for an outdoor Mass at the Piazza. That was because many priests who were in Rome even if they did not join the two-day encounter joined the concelebration. Because the sun was really shining, the priests, while dutifully following the Mass in Latin, used all their ingenuity to cover themselves from the hot and biting rays of the sun. Vatican gave out bottles of water to the priests during the Mass. It was for me sort of a minor miracle that nobody collapsed because of the heat. The Mass that began at 9:00 a.m. finished at noontime.
CLOSING HOMILY OF THE HOLY FATHER:
The Mass presided by the Holy Father to formally put a closure to the yearlong celebration was: MASS FOR THE SOLEMNITY OF THE SACRED HEART
a. It is to be remembered that he also formally opened the special year for priests on the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart last year (2009): intentionally to put the Sacred Heart of Jesus as the source and summit of the holiness of the priest as St. John Vianney made it in his own quest for sanctity. Thus, the theme of the celebration: “FAITHFULNESS OF CHRIST, FAITHFULNESS OF PRIESTS”. The wounded yet perseveringly and lovingly faithful Heart of Jesus to do the will of the Father for the salvation of humanity whatever it costs should be the pattern for the heart of a priest in his own journey to obey the Father in shepherding the faithful. St. John Vianney offered everything he was and had in imitating the Sacred Heart.
b. Thus the homily of the Holy Father (which I can term the summation of the reflections of the whole year and of the reflections during the encounter) was focused on two points: 1) St. John Vianney and the Priesthood; and, 2) what I term, the “Shepherd’s Heart of Jesus”.
i. The first part of the homily was more a meditation with the life of Vianney in mind:
1. “We have to let the Cure of Ars guide us to a renewed application of the grandeur and beauty of the priestly ministry. The priest is not a mere office-holder… he does something which no human being can do of his own power.”
a. “In Christ’s name he speaks the words which absolve us of our sins…”
b. “Over the offerings of bread and wine he speaks Christ’s words of thanksgiving, which are words of transubstantiation.”
2. “The priesthood… is not simply ‘office’ but sacrament: God makes us poor men in order to be, through us, present to all men and women, and to act on their behalf.”
“…this audacity of God is the true grandeur concealed in the word ‘priesthood’… this is what we wanted to reflect upon and appreciate anew over the course of the past year”.
3. “…God is indeed waiting for us to say “yes”. (then his short exhortation to pray for more vocations)
4. Then his thoughts turned to the “sex scandals” of today. Here I would like to quote his words to show the perspective of these sad events, the pains the Church experiences and what we have to do about them.
a. The Perspective:
“It was to be expected that this new radiance of the priesthood would not be pleasing to the “enemy”; he would have rather preferred to see it disappear, so that God would ultimately be driven out of the world. And so it happened that, in this very year of joy for the sacrament of the priesthood, the sins of priests came to light – particularly the abuse of the little ones, in which the priesthood, whose task is to manifest God’s concern for our good, turns into its very opposite.
b. The Sorrow and Contrition:
“We… insistently beg forgiveness from God and from the persons involved, while promising to do everything possible to ensure that such abuse will never occur again…” (Here I think of the promise of the Holy Father that the sins or “crimes” of the priests will have to be seriously dealt with. Thus, the Pope came out with instructions on even imposing the heaviest canonical penalty of dismissal from the priesthood on three grounds; and very recently revised and updated the canonical rules on the so-called “de graviorbus delicitis”, especially on child abuse.)
c. The Actions to be Taken:
“in admitting men to priestly ministry and in their formation we will do everything we can to weigh the authenticity of their vocation and make every effort to accompany priests along the journey, so that the Lord will protect them and watch over them in troubled situations and amid life’s dangers.” (Here I remember the instruction on admitting to the seminary and to ordination those with very strong inclinations to active homosexuality. And the helps now for priests, like the CBCP’s “Assist Program”.)
d. The Humble Reflection:
“Had the Year for Priests been a glorification of our individual human performance, it would have been ruined by these events. But for us what happened was precisely the opposite: we grew in gratitude for God’s gift, a gift concealed in “earthen vessels” which ever anew, even amid human weakness, makes his love concretely present in this world.”
e. The Call:
“So let us look upon all that happened as a summons to purification, received from God. In this way, his gift becomes a commitment to respond to God’s courage and humility by our own courage and humility. The word of God, which we have sung in the Entrance Antiphon of the liturgy, can speak to us, at this hour, of what it means to become and to be priests: ‘Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble of heart” (Mt. 11:29)
ii. The second part of the homily (which I will just briefly touch) focused on the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart and its connection with the priesthood:
“The liturgy interprets for us the language of Jesus’ heart, which tells us above all that God is the shepherd of mankind, and so it reveals to us Jesus’ priesthood, which is rooted deep within his heart, so too it shows us the perennial foundation and the effective criterion of all priestly ministry, which must always be anchored in the heart of Jesus and lived out from that starting-point.”
Then, the Holy Father meditated on some salient points the Psalm of the Mass: Psalm 23: “The Lord is My Shepherd”, always referring the points to the meaning and challenges of our priesthood.
1. “The Lord is my shepherd.”
“God wants us, as priests, in one tiny moment of history, to share his concern about people… take care of them and provide them with a concrete evidence of God’s concern.”
2. “He leads me in right paths for his name’s sake.”
“By walking with Christ, we experience the joy of Revelation, and as priests we need to communicate to others our own joy at the fact that we have been shown the right way of life.”
3. “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me.”
“Help us priests, so that we can remain beside the persons entrusted to us in these dark nights, so that we can show them your own light.”
4. “Your rod and your staff – they comfort me.”
“Today we can see that it has nothing to do with love when conduct unworthy of the priestly life is tolerated. Nor does it have to do with love if heresy is allowed to spread and the faith twisted and chipped away… once again (the need for) the shepherd’s staff – a staff which helps men and women to tread difficult paths and follow the Lord.”
5. “You set a table before me… You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.”
“How can we not rejoice at the fact that he has enabled us to set God’s table for men and women, to give them his Body and Blood, to offer them the precious gift of his very presence?
iii. Concluding Reflection of the Holy Father:
The Holy Father ended his homily saying that we, priests, like any other Christian and even more than the others, should be the “wellspring”, “sources” of life:
“Out of his heart shall flow rivers of living water” (cf. Jn 7:37ff). In faith we drink, so to speak, of the living water of God’s Word. In this way the believer himself becomes a wellspring which gives living water to the parched earth of history. We see this in the saints. We see this in Mary, this great woman of faith and love who has become in every generation a wellspring of faith, love and life. Every Christian and every priest should become, starting from Christ, a wellspring which gives life to others. We ought to be offering life-giving water to a parched and thirsty world. Lord, we thank you because for our sake you opened your heart; because in your death and in your resurrection you became the source of life. Give us life, make us live from you as our source, and grant that we too may be sources, wellsprings capable of bestowing the water of life in our time. We thank you for the grace of the priestly ministry. Lord, bless us, and bless all those who in our time are thirsty and continue to seek. Amen.”
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