Mama Mary in God`s plan for the salvation of

Greenleaf
FOR THE BUSY SOUL
www.greenbeltchapel.org
The Official Publication of
Sto. Niño de Paz Community
Ordinary/Marian Issue 2010
Mama Mary in God’s plan for the salvation of man
As Catholics, we know that we do not worship or adore Mama Mary.
We honor, respect and love her just as we do our biological mothers. And
rightfully, we also thank her for her role as Co-Mediatrix in the salvation
plan.
The Scriptures tell us that Mary is truly the Mother of God: “Theotokos”.
(Mt. 1:18-24) “. . . she was found with child through the Holy Spirit”; (20) “.
. . for it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her.”
(21) “She will bear a Son and you are to name him Jesus.” (22) “. . . the
virgin shall be with child and bear a son and they shall call him Emmanuel.”
(Gal 4:4-5) “But when the fullness of time had come, God sent his Son
born of a woman, born under the law, so that we might receive adoption.”
It was the holy will of the Father that his Son be sent into the world
for redemption. (Jn 3:16), “For God so loved the world that he gave his
only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might
have eternal life.” It was likewise the will of the Father that a woman be
intimately involved in His plans.
Holy Rosary Month
of October
Observe the devotion by
praying the holy rosary as part
of your daily prayers. Attend
the Mass on the Feast of Our
Lady of the Holy Rosary on
October 7.
“May the Virgin Mary, Queen of
Peace, intercede for all humanity,
so that hate and death never have
the last word!” –Pope John Paul
II (30 September 2001)
The Perpetual Virginity of Mama Mary
At the Lateran Council 649 AD, this was proclaimed: three-fold nature. She
conceived without seed, without injury brought Him forth and preserved after
His birth inviolate. It was foretold (Ez 44:2) “...This gate is to remain closed...
since the Lord, the God of Israel, has entered by it, it shall remain closed.”
In the New Testament, the word “brother” is used 160 times. Jesus himself
said, “For whoever does the will of my heavenly Father is my brother and sister
and mother.” (Mt 12:50, Mk 3:35, Lk 8:21). In the Greek language, the word
brother or sister may be used for near relations like cousins, not necessarily
blood brothers and sisters. “First born” does not necessarily mean other
children follow but refers generally about inheritance laws.
Immaculate Conception
From the first moment of her existence by a special privilege and grace of
God, she was preserved from any and all stains of sin. “Chaire kecharitomene,
ho kurios meta sou” meaning “Rejoice favoured one, the Lord is with you...”
In the Greek language, this is in the present perfect participle of the verb “to
grace”, a profound meaning ascribed to Mary that has been completed in the
past, that continues to the present and shall continue to last in the future. This
is Bible based as Lk 1:37, “and with God, nothing is impossible”.
The Assumption into heaven
Mary the Immaculate, Perpetual Virgin, Mother of God, after her earthly
life, was assumed body and soul into heaven. She ultimately shared in the
suffering and triumphs of the Cross over the serpent. (Gen 3:15) “I will put
enmity between you and the woman”. Mary could not suffer the effects of sin
as St. Paul says (Rom 6:23), “for the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is
eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord”.
In the book, Mary Co-Redemptrix, Mediatrix, Advocate by Mark Miravalle, a
reknown Mariologist and professor of Karol Wojtyla (Pope John Paul II), wrote,
“Every revealed truth about Mary Mother of Jesus bears profound meaning
for the salvific journey of the Pilgrim Church.” Pope John Paul II himself said,
“The Mother of Redeemer has precise place in the plan of salvation.”
(Condensed from the talk given by Bro. Chito A. Zabarte, Jr. to the Emmanuel Brethren in May, 2010)
Ina: Our Lady of Peñafrancia
Greenbelt Chapel was blessed with the visit of the pilgrim
image of Our Lady of Peñafrancia from August 30 to September
3. The Chapel community and servants joined devotees in
welcoming INA, as Bicolanos passionately call her, which takes
on a pilgrim journey of faith to different vicariate parishes as
part of the celebration of 300 years of devotion to Our Lady of
Peñafrancia. Triduum prayers were said before each Mass on
August 31 to September 2. (Continued on page 8)
EDITORIAL
E
Mary, my mother too
us. God so much loved us that He not only
gave us his only Son but also gave us a Mother
in Mary. Can anyone be more endearing to
us than someone who looks after us as her
children?
She is to us very much like our own
mothers, who love us and care for us. As
in the wedding at Cana, she prompted Jesus
about the concern on the need for more
wine. She feels our concerns and she is
always there to intercede for us in our
needs.
As her child, there were many times
in my life that I ran to her and asked for
favors, which she placed at the foot of
her Son, and were granted to me. And
I know a lot of people like me who have
experienced the same benevolence and
charity of our Mother.
According to an article entitled
“Mary, Mother of the Church” written
by Rev. Matthew R. Mauriello, “She is
the mother of Jesus, Who is the head
of the Mystical body. We, the members
of His Body, look to the Blessed Virgin
Mary who cares for the pilgrim church
with a mother’s love and follows its
progress homeward to the eternal
splendor of heaven.”
I remember listening to one of the
homilies of the late Jaime Cardinal
Sin where he related an anecdote on
the role of the Blessed Mother in our
redemption. The story goes, one day
in heaven Jesus was surprised to see
that a lot of people have entered heaven
despite the closed door. He called
Mama Mary and asked why this is so.
His mother said that these many people
were knocking on the door and pleading
to be allowed to get in. And so out of
Feast of the Nativity of Mother Mary on September 8. Fr. Jun Sescon pity she lowered her mantle over the
kisses the hand of the Blessed Virgin Mary after celebrating Mass on the window so the people could get in. Jesus
feast of her nativity at Greenbelt Chapel. Triduum Masses were held from out of love for His mother just shook his
September 5-7 while an additional evening Mass was held on her feast day.
head.
(Photo by Net Oriondo)
Mama Mary’s role in the salvation of
man is so significant. I pray that through
Christians and a lot more. This only shows
how she is very much a part of our lives as her, My Mother, I shall be led to live a life
of holiness. As the lyrics of a song goes,
Catholics.
But with all these numerous titles, her title “Mariang ina ko ako ri’y anak mo, kay Kristong
of being a Mother has endeared her most to kuya ko akayin mo ako.” (MAVP)
very time the name of the Blessed
Virgin Mary is mentioned we come to think
of the many titles attributed to her. And this
is so because she means a lot to us. She is
our Morning Star, Mediatrix of All Grace,
Protectress of Families, Comforter of the
Afflicted, Advocate of the Oppressed, Health
of the Sick, Refuge of Sinners, Help of
Love-A-Parish Program
Greenbelt Chapel is a spiritual home where
charity abounds and generosity extends
beyond its confines. Through its LoveA-Parish Program (LAPP), the Chapel
provides financial support to 413 poor
parishes all over the country and other
charitable institutions serving the poor like
the Missionaries of Charity of Mother Teresa, the Poor Clares
and Caritas Manila.
2010
January
February
March
April
Php 691,375.00
816,285.55
727,623.20
668,807.75
May
June
July
662,675.20
572,576.75
660,823.80
Join the Information Group,
which is in-charge of Greenleaf, website
and other communication works
for the Greenbelt Chapel community,
and share your God-given talents
in journalistic and creative writing,
graphic or web design and photography.
Send your curriculum vitae and sample works to
Dimsy V. Lucas, Information Group coordinator,
at [email protected].
You can also visit our website
at http://www.greenbeltchapel.org
2
Sto. Niño de Paz Community - Greenbelt Chapel
Vision
To be a home of spiritual communion and
celebration with God, self, family and the society.
Mission
To evangelize the people of Makati and other
communities and their families through meaningful
and sustained celebration of the Sacraments, preaching
and proclamation of the Word, committed and
creative ministries, solid formation of the
Catholic faith, prayer and healing experiences,
and the pursuit of social justice and outreach services.
Schedule of Services
Eucharistic Celebration
Monday to Friday
7:15 AM 12:15 PM 5:45 PM 7:00 PM
Saturday
12:15 PM (Filipino)
4:30 PM 6:00 PM (Sunday Anticipated Mass)
Sunday
7:15 AM 9:00 AM 10:30 AM 12noon
3:00 PM 4:30 PM 6:00 PM 7:30 PM
Sacrament of Reconciliation
Monday to Friday
7:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Saturday
Sunday
9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
7:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Holy Hour
every first Friday of the month after the
7:00 PM Mass
Healing Session
every first Sunday of the month after
the 12:00 noon Mass
Counseling
By appoinment
Greenleaf
Editor in Chief Edwin P. Galvez
Issue Editor Marie Angelyn V. Padilla
Creatives Richard C. Eusebio, Dimsy V. Lucas
Carmela Marie Y. Victorio
Writers Malu G. Antes, Mary Rose Q. Blancaflor,
Puri B. Espeleta, Paul G. Fuentes, Chona P. Salvaña
Photographers Paul G. Fuentes, Net L. Oriondo
Information Group-Education Ministry Members
Charity T. Box, Ric M. Castillo, Jr., Mitch P. Cura,
Jenny M. Flores, Vissia P. Hernandez, Dalia B. Martinez,
Emily R. Mones, Regnard Kreisler C. Raquedan,
Cecille V. Sta. Ana, Chato T. Zabarte
Assistant Coordinators Edwin P. Galvez,
Mary Rose Q. Blancaflor
Coordinator Dimsy V. Lucas
Marie Angelyn V. Padilla
Education Ministry Head
Rev. Fr. Jun C. Sescon
Chaplain
Atty. Nordy P. Diploma
Administrator
Sto. Niño de Paz Community-Greenbelt Chapel
Greenbelt Park, Ayala Center, 1228 Makati City, Philippines
Telephone numbers: (632) 729-8173 / (632) 729-8174
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.greenbeltchapel.org
EDITORIAL
CHAPLAIN’S CORNER
3
Mary’s Recipe for a Miracle
On our Marian issue of the Greenleaf, we
fix our gaze again on the Blessed Mother. She
is what the late Pope Paul VI calls, “the dawn
of salvation.” Her presence ushered in the
break of day, the coming of Jesus, the Sun of
Justice and the light of the world. Her mission
prepared the world for the coming of the
Redeemer. Her life is inseparable from the life
of the Messiah. Hence, her life is inseparable
from our salvation.
In Mary’s heart, a wonderful encounter took
place. A miracle happened. A blessing was
realized. And this occurred because in the
heart of Mary, the grace of God and the faith
of humanity met. Yes, for a miracle to happen,
the grace of God and faith of a person must
intersect.
In Mary’s heart, God’s grace dwelt. No
wonder, the angel greeted her “Hail, full of
grace!” She was filled with God’s initiative. She
is loved by God. Archbishop Fulton Sheen calls
Mary, “the world’s first love”. The love of God
is simply grace. We have not done anything
yet, we are already loved by God. Jesus died
for us on the cross when we were still sinners,
enemies of God. Mary was filled with God’s
unmerited love. But let us not wary, our hearts
too are filled with God’s unconditional love.
God also wants his grace to dwell in us, in spite
of our unworthiness. We too are loved like
Mary.
Mary’s response to God’s love is faith. Her
constant prayer was “Let it be done to me
according to your word.” No wonder, her son’s
favorite prayer was “Thy will be done.” Like
mother, like son. They were full of faith. Their
hearts have a very large room for God. They have
humble obedience—the perfect description for
faith. They knew that God should be in control
of their lives. They withstood difficulties and
temptations till the end. They were not just full
of faith. They were faithful.
Thus, in Mary’s heart, grace and faith met…
and what an encounter! A miracle is born! A
blessing is revealed!
We all want miracles. We all long to discover
God’s choicest blessings for us. We all yearn to
experience the peace and fulfillment that only
God can give. How can we receive it? How can
we behold it? How can it take place in our lives?
– When grace and faith meet in our hearts!
There is no doubt about grace. God’s love is
sure. God’s grace will always be there. God is
love. But the greater question is, “Is our faith
Rev. Fr. Jun C. Sescon
Send your feedback and comments to Fr. Jun at [email protected]
real?” “Is our faith ready to welcome grace?”
“Can we be faithful, too?”
Miracles? Blessings? Graces? Yes, they are
real. They are about to happen. They are in
fact on the way… they are just waiting to meet
our faith!
Mama Mary, intercede for us… teach us how
to be full of faith and faithful… Amen.
Fr. Prex celebrates silver jubilee as priest
Profused with gratitude and
happiness, former Greenbelt
chaplain Fr. Pericles “Prex”
Fajardo celebrated his 25th
sacerdotal anniversary with a
thanksgiving Mass attended
by the Greenbelt Chapel
community on April 27.
Most Rev Joe Advincula,
bishop of San Carlos City,
was the main celebrant
during the Mass that was
concelebrated with chaplain Fr. Jun Sescon, Fr.
Jim Ferry and Chapel regular Mass presiders and
confessors.
In his message, Fr. Prex expressed his
gratitude to the Chapel administration, staff,
servants, fellow priests and the community
for five wonderful and fruitful years of his
priesthood in the Chapel. A short program and
dinner followed after the Mass.
Before his Greenbelt chaplaincy, Fr. Prex was
Parochial Vicar of the Immaculate Conception
Cathedral in Roxas City and San Miguel ProCathedral in San Miguel, Manila, priest-incharge of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage
Mission Station in Brgy. Prosperidad, San Carlos
City and parish priest of Jesus the Divine Healer
in Tahanan Village, Parañaque City, Our Lady of
Fatima in Mandaluyong City and the National
Shrine of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Makati
City.
His best legacy as chaplain was introducing
continuous confession daily and 7pm Mass
on weekdays and 7:15am Mass on Sundays.
He is currently the spiritual director and
professor of St. John Mary Vianney, College
Seminary and Chaplain of Our Lady of Peace
Mission School, both in San Carlos City,
Negros Occidental. (CPS)
Fr. Prex (left) concelebrates
the thanksgiving Mass at
the Chapel on his 25th
sacerdotal
anniversary
with (from left) Fr. Jim
Ferry, main celebrant
Bishop Joe Advincula and
chaplain Fr. Jun Sescon.
We remember our priests with gratitude and thanksgiving…
Happy Birthday!
Happy Sacerdotal Anniversary!
Fr. Paul Yohakim, Aug. 17
Fr. Jo Yu, Aug. 24
Fr. Roy Belen, Aug. 28
Fr. Matthew Fernandez, Sept. 16
Fr. Genie Diwa, Sept. 19
Fr. Efren de Guzman, SVD, Sept. 27
Fr. Juanito Arroco, Oct. 11
Fr. Hans Magdurulang, Oct. 15
Fr. Prex Fajardo, Oct. 26
Fr. Mon Merino, Oct. 31
Our chaplain, Fr. Jun Sescon, on Sept. 19
Fr. Jason Laguerta, Sept. 8
Fr. Genie Diwa, Sept. 17
Fr. Dave Concepcion, Sept. 19
Fr Jerome Secillano, Sept. 28
Fr. Rico Hilario, Sept. 21
Fr. Andy de Guzman, Sept. 21
Fr. Joseph Sow Hong, Sept. 24
Fr. Hans Magdurulang, Oct. 11
Fr. Mon Merino, Oct. 29
Fr. Prex expresses his gratitude to the
Chapel community for celebrating his silver
jubilee as a priest; with fellow priests and
servants who feted him to a fellowship
dinner and program; with assistant chapel
administrator Atty. Chito del Rosario and
servants. (Photos by Net Oriondo and
Edwin Galvez)
S
teep in thanksgiving and praise for the Lord’s blessings to its faithful
community in the heart of the country’s foremost business district, the
Sto. Niño De Paz Community-Greenbelt Chapel commemorated its 27th
anniversary on July 21, 2010, highlighted by a concelebrated Mass led by
Most Rev. Angel N. Lagdameo, D.D., Archbishop of Jaro with Fr. Rufino C.
Sescon, Jr., chaplain, and guest priests.
In his homily, Archbishop Lagdameo expressed his gratitude to the
community for the financial support that six parishes under his diocese
regularly receive through its Love-A-Parish Program. He narrated that
this act of generosity helps them spread the Good News in far-flung
areas in their region.
The bishops who celebrated the Triduum Masses from July 18 to 20
likewise expressed their heartfelt thanks for the blessings derived from
the Chapel’s program.
Most Rev. Patricio A. Buzon, SDB, D.D., of Kabankalan, Most Rev.
Rodolfo F. Beltran, D.D., of the Apostolic Vicar of Bontoc-Lagawe and
Most Rev. Julius S. Tonel, D.D., of Ipil shared how the program has also
made an impact in their respective localities. Their stories reflect this
year’s anniversary theme, “Grateful, Faithful and Fruitful in Christ”.
This year’s celebration, capped by a thanksgiving dinner with musical
presentations and exhibit, was organized by the Liturgical Music Group
(LMG) under the Worship Ministry. (PBE)
Greenbelt Chapel’s 27th an
“Grateful,
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Develop into good soil
As there are four kinds of soil, according to the parable of Jesus, there
are also four kinds of the receiver of the Word of God. Total dedication to
the Word of God is important for us to develop as good soil. The Apostles
were not good soil at first but they later became good soil. Every day, we
are challenged to believe in the Word of God. God uses imperfect people
in order that His plans may come about. The role of fear and rejection
as the Apostles experienced are necessary to bring glory back to God. —
From the homily of Most Rev. Angel N. Lagdameo, D.D.
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Let Jesus visit your heart
(Sharing the story of Abraham who accepted three guests in his tent
and that of Mary and Martha who accommodated the visit of Jesus
in their house) We too should receive Jesus in our heart with Joy. This
visitation is through the Eucharist, where Jesus is our guest and at the
same time we are also guests of Jesus when we receive Him during the
Mass.
As Jesus comes into our heart, the best way to welcome Him is by
listening, and to hear Jesus we have to take time to listen. We should
not be like Martha who was so busy to give time for her very important
guest, Jesus. Religion is about our relationship with God. We come to
Mass because we need Christ, and as we attend Mass we should have
the attitude of Mary who was always ready to listen to Jesus. The Chapel
is one way of Jesus to visit us. He visits us in the center of our busy life.
—From the homily of Most Rev. Patricio A. Buzon, SDB, D.D.
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Union with Christ
Greenbelt Chapel’s help is an act of witnessing. Union with Christ is
also a union with those He gives himself to. —From the homily of Most
Rev. Rodolfo F. Beltran, D.D.
Gifts
“Faithful, Grateful and Fruitful in Christ” means living out the reality of
the Trinity. Jesus is the personification of the faithfulness of God. Faith
is a gift whose origin is God who is faithful. The fidelity of Jesus brought
victory that gained our salvation. The 27 years of the Chapel is a sign
of the fidelity of Jesus. —From the homily of Most Rev. Julius S. Tonel,
D.D. (MRQB)
27 sacred, momentous and amusing scenes 1 Members of various choirs under the Li
servants’ fellowship dinner-concert; 5 Education Ministry head Angie Padilla; 6 Worsh
their Pledge of Commitment to serve the Lord through the community; 9 -10 Allied Ban
Lagdameo with Chapel administrator Atty. Nordy Diploma, Bishop Patricio Buzon (altar,
who will be ordained to the priesthood on October 11, 2010; 16 Members of Info Gro
21a-c Guest priests attend the dinner hosted by the Chapel; 22-23 Chapel servants wit
and fellow priests; 26 Chapel staff and servants; 27a cantors Tom & Flor del Mar and
Fuentes and Net L. Oriondo; garden photos by Richard Sydeco.
CHAPEL NEWS
5
nniversary celebration
Faithful and Fruitful in Christ”
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21-a
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27-a
21-b
21-c
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27-b-h
iturgical Music Group (LMG); 2 Members of Greeters and Collectors Group (G&C) ; 3 Members of Intercessory Prayer Group (IPG); 4 Richard Eusebio of Information Group (Info) perform during
hip Ministry head Winnie Angeles; 7 Members of Altar Servers Group (ASG) with chaplain Fr. Jun Sescon and Pastoral Council secretary Bryan Camado (extreme left); 8 Active servants renew
nk Chorale and Alay Himig Chorale perform during the servants’ fellowship dinner-concert with LMG coordinator Eric Ganaden conducting; 11 Servants share a light moment; 12-14 Arch. Angel
, right), Msgr. Clem Ignacio (altar, left), Fr. Jun Sescon and priests who concelebrated with him the Anniversary Mass; 15 Msgr. Clem Ignacio and Rev. Jublas Nolasco, a former lector of the Chapel
oup; 17 Missionaries of Charity of Mother Teresa; 18 Guest priests prepare for the Communion; 19 Chapel administrator Atty. Nordy Diploma delivers his message; 20 Arch. Angel Lagdameo;
th Fr. Jun Sescon and Arch. Angel Lagdameo; 24 Atty. & Mrs. Nordy Diploma offer gifts during the Anniversary Mass; 25 Chaplain Fr. Jun Sescon expresses his gratitude to the community, servants
prayer of the faithful readers; 27b-h Nelda Bustamante, Cecile Sistelo, Adie Caday, Alice Martinez, Charisse Opulencia, Ramil Angeles and Chato Zabarte. Photos by Richard C. Eusebio, Paul G.
REFLECTIONS
the confessional of Greenbelt Chapel, which
adopted Padre Pio as its secondary patron saint.
Through my readings, I learned that Padre Pio
was named Francesco in honor of St. Francis of
Assisi. He was born to peasant farmers Grazio
and Giuseppa Forgione in a small Italian village
of Pietrelcina. From a devout child drawn to the
6
to God, knowing the right word of counsel
or encouragement they needed. Padre Pio’s
inspiration has encouraged me to ask for
his intercession, trust God more and make
confession a habit.
I have chosen him as my special protector
and guardian because through his example I am
Padre Pio, my comfort and my refuge
I became a member of the Christian Life
Program of Singles for Christ at St. Francis
of Assisi Parish in Mandaluyong City over a
decade ago. For three years, I attended its
nightly meetings even if it meant rushing from
my work in Makati. But as traffic grew heavier
and became tiring on my part, I decided to stop
attending. Eventually, I also missed hearing
Mass there—missing as well the solemn
atmosphere of the church.
But not until I found another sacred place
that became my haven to commune with God,
priesthood, he became a Capuchin novice and
was ordained priest in 1910. Eight years later,
he received the visible marks of the crucifixion,
making him the first stigmatized priest in the
history of the Church.
Pope John Paul II proclaimed him Saint
on June 16, 2002. Some devotees consider
him patron saint of healing while others, of
confession and intercession. I learned that
he had the gift of reading the hearts of the
penitents who flocked to him for confession,
which he heard for ten to 12 hours a day.
Paying homage to him, the Chapel serves the
faithful with the sacrament of reconciliation 12
hours on weekdays and 13 hours on Sundays
starting at 7:00 a.m.
It is said that Padre Pio used the confessional
to bring both sinners and devout souls closer
What makes us Catholics?
The Catholic Church was founded in the line
of apostleship directly from Jesus. And like any
institution, the Church has its marks called the
“Four Marks of the Church”. These originated
from one of our creeds. Simply, a creed means
“a statement of faith”, and here are just three
of its four types:
THE APOSTLE’S CREED handed down to us by
the apostles. This is the shortest and the one
we recite during the Mass.
THE NICENE CREED or appropriately called
the Nicene-Constantinople Creed came to
us in its final form from the great Council of
Constantinople in 381. Some churches recite
this during High Mass celebrations.
THE ATHANASIAN CREED that dates back
from the late fourth century and is attributed
to St. Athanasius (296-373), the great defender
of Catholic Truth. Those who held to the
Arian heresy, which ravaged the Church at
that time, denied the divinity of Christ. As a
result, Athanasius composed this creed, which
includes lengthy explanations of the Trinity and
the Hypostatic Union (the Human and Divine
natures of Christ forming one Person).
There are still some creeds, but I took the
privilege of selecting the ones closest to the
Apostle’s Creed.
Thus these four marks were drawn from the
Nicene Creed. In it, we profess, “We believe
in One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church.”
These are inseparable and intrinsically linked to
each other.
Based on the writings of some priest-writers
and defenders of our faith around the globe,
the Church is:
One.
This
mark
emphasizes the oneness
of the Trinity – Father,
Son, and Holy Spirit.
(Regarding the doctrine of
the Trinity, please refer to
your basic catechism.)
This oneness is also
visible in the church. As
Catholics, we are united in
our Creed and our other
teachings, the celebration
of the sacraments and
the hierarchical structure
based on the apostolic
succession preserved and
handed on through the
Sacrament of Holy Orders.
For example, whether one attends Mass in
Rome, Greenbelt Chapel in Makati City, the US
or elsewhere, the Mass is the same — same
readings, structure, prayers and the like except
for the use of language — celebrated by the
faithful who share the same Catholic beliefs and
offered by a priest who is united to his bishop
who is united to the Holy Father, the Pope, the
successor of St. Peter.
In our oneness, we find diversity: The faithful
bear witness to the many different vocations,
always reminded of the Parable of the Prodigal
Son: that each time I fall, I can find refuge in
this Chapel where God is waiting for me. His
image is purposely situated at the door of the
confessional so that in his eternal presence
he can oversee us, his devotees, and through
confession, we are again reconciled with God.
Working in the corporate world and serving
in the Chapel are not easy tasks for me. My
work surrounds me with material things, while
my service calls me for simplicity, which is
somehow troubling as a Christian.
As I seek comfort at the Chapel, Padre
Pio’s image reminds me to end the day with
confession and return to God. His sacred place
in the Chapel gives me comfort and peace of
mind. (MGA)
ministries and many different gifts, but who
work together to continue the mission of our
Lord. The various cultures and traditions enrich
our Church in their expressions of one faith.
In all, charity must permeate the Church for
it is through charity that members are bound
together and work together in harmonious
unity. As St. Paul says, “Unity in diversity.”
Holy. Our Lord Himself is the source of all
holiness: “The one Christ is mediator and the
way of salvation; he is present to us in His body
which is the Church” (Dogmatic Constitution on
the Church, #14).
Christ sanctifies the Church and in turn
through Him and with Him, the Church is His
agent of sanctification. Through the ministry of
the Church and the power of the Holy Spirit, our
Lord pours forth abundant graces, especially
CHAPEL NEWS
“Dugo Mo, Buhay Ko” Year 5
2010 Lenten Pilgrimage
Prayerful journey,
Quiet devotion
Giving blood, serving God, helping others
The Bible has it, “give and receive”. Giving leads to receiving, and in
the process of giving, a room is being emptied and prepared for receiving
blessings in return. Some people give out of their abundance while some
give out of their own needs. The first is maybe out of charity while the
latter is out of sacrifice, much like
the widow’s mite. And God Who
sees and knows everything is never
to be outdone in generosity, in giving
back blessings in abundance to the
givers. Blood-letting shares the same
principle. First, it is good for one’s
health as giving blood helps generate
new red blood cells and reduce the
risk of a heart attack. Donors can also
become immediate recipients of blood should they need it in the future
while they get free check-up for blood pressure, cholesterol, temperature,
pulse and iron level.
Now on its fifth year, Greenbelt Chapel and Philippine National Red Cross
(PNRC) sponsored the annual “Dugo Mo, Buhay Ko” blood-letting project
on February 21 with PNRC’s Dr. Marjorie dela Cruz and volunteer-servants
led by Bro. Deo de Asis, coordinator of the Altar Servers Group (ASG). They
collected some 132 bloods bags from generous donors that day.
The difficulty of getting blood donation motivated Marjee Gusayko. “It
is troublesome for those who cannot afford to buy blood so I decided to
donate. Besides helping other people, blood-letting proves I am in the pink
of health.”
For first-time donor Karen Torres, giving blood is like sharing a part of her
life. “I am glad I have done something good for others.”
On her third time as a donor, servant Imee Tejano considers blood-letting
as another way to serve God. “This replaces the material wealth that I could
have shared but falls short of.” (PGF)
through the sacraments. Therefore, through its
teaching, prayer and worship and good works,
the Church is a visible sign of holiness.
Each member of the Church shares to this
holiness. Through baptism, we have been freed
from original sin, filled with sanctifying grace,
plunged into the mystery of our Lord’s passion,
death and resurrection and incorporated into
the Church, “the holy people of God.”
By God’s grace, we strive for holiness. The
Second Vatican Council exhorted, “Every
Catholic must therefore aim at Christian
perfection and each according to his station
play his part, that the Church, which bears in
her own body the humility and dying of Jesus,
may daily be more purified and renewed
against the day when Christ will present her to
Himself in all her glory without spot or wrinkle”
(Decree on Ecumenism, #4).
7
The churches of Cavite
are imbued with history
and traditions yet they
are simple, quiet and
unassuming, reflecting the
cultural and religious values
of the faithful. Some 200
pilgrims took a prayerful
“spiritual journey” to seven
of these churches on March
6, 2010 for the sixth annual
Lenten Pilgrimage of the
Chapel with the theme
“Faithfulness of Christ,
Faithfulness of Priests”.
Pilgrims with pilgrimage chaplain Fr. Jason Laguerta and Formation Group
“The recollection in
facilitators Judit Mangahis, Nizza Abello, Angie Padilla, Edwin Galvez,
Mavic Horlador, Des Aguado and Robert Barbosa.
motion”, as pilgrimage
chaplain Fr. Jason H. Laguerta, vocations director of the Archdiocese of Manila
and San Carlos Seminary called it, brought the faithful to the parishes of Nuestra
Señora del Pilar (Imus Cathedral), St. Michael the Archangel (Bacoor) St. Mary
Magdalene (Kawit), San Roque (Cavite City), Most Holy Rosary (Rosario), Holy
Cross (Tanza) and Parroquia De San Francisco De Asis (Gen. Trias).
“This sacred journey,” Fr. Jason said, “is a journey to our self...to deepen
our spirituality. As the saying goes, the farthest journey that a human being
can make is a journey to oneself. This pilgrimage will eventually lead us to the
biggest discovery of all: the discovery of the Lord who walks with us along the
way like the two disciples on the road to Emmaus.” (EPG)
Catholic. St. Ignatius of Antioch (c. 100) used
this word, which means “universal”, to describe
the Church (Letter to the Smyrnaens). The
Church is indeed Catholic in that Christ is
universally present in the Church and that He
has commissioned the Church to evangelize
the world — “Go therefore and make disciples
of all the nations” (Matthew
28:19).
Moreover, the Church here
on earth — what we call the
Church militant — is united
to the Church triumphant in
Heaven.
Apostolic. Christ founded
the Church and entrusted His
authority to His apostles, the
first bishops. He entrusted a
special authority to St. Peter,
the first Pope and Bishop of
Rome, to act as His vicar here
on earth. This authority has
been handed down through
the Sacrament of Holy Orders in what we call
apostolic succession from bishop to bishop, and
then by extension to priests and deacons. No
bishop, priest, or deacon in our Church is selfordained or self-proclaimed; rather, he is called
by the Church and ordained into the apostolic
ministry given by our Lord to His Church to be
exercised in union with the Pope.
The Church is also apostolic in that the
deposit of faith found in both Sacred Scripture
and Sacred Tradition was preserved, taught and
handed on by the apostles.
Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the
Spirit of truth, the Magisterium (the teaching
authority entrusted to the apostles and their
successors) has the duty to preserve, teach,
defend and hand on the deposit of faith.
Moreover, the Holy Spirit protects the Church
from error in its teaching authority. While over
the course of time, the Magisterium has had
to address current issues, such as nuclear war,
euthanasia, in vitro fertilization, the same truth
principles exercised under the guidance of the
Holy Spirit prevail.
“These four marks of the Church — one,
holy, catholic, and apostolic — are fully realized
in the Catholic Church. While other Christian
Churches accept and profess the Creed and
possess elements of truth and sanctification,
only the Roman Catholic Church reflects the
fullness of these marks.
The Second Vatican Council taught, “This
Church [which Christ founded], constituted
and organized as a society in the present
world, subsists in the Catholic Church, which is
governed by the successor of Peter and by the
bishops in communion with him” (Dogmatic
Constitution on the Church, #8), and “For it is
through Christ’s Catholic Church alone, which
is the universal help towards salvation, that
the fullness of the means of salvation can be
obtained” (Decree on Ecumenism, #3).
Our duty then is to make these four marks
visible in our daily lives. (PGF)
(References: Fr. William Saunders - www.
catholiceducation.org, Kenneth D. Whitehead - www.
ewtn.com, www.starofthesea-catholicchurch.com)
CHAPEL NEWS
(Continued from page 1)
Ina: Our Lady of Peñafrancia
The Peñafrancia Tercentenary Celebration
theme, “Balaog Inako, Balaog Itao” (A Gift
Received, A Gift to Share) is articulated
by Msgr. Gilbert Garcera, Bishop of Daet,
Camarines Norte: “This distinctively Bikolano
gift from God which is our devotion to INA, Our
Lady of Peñafrancia, must be passed on to the
next generation, trusting that the gift received
will stay and will be shared to all.”
In line with the celebration, the Peñafrancia
Tricentennial, Inc. launched “3 Million
Rosaries for INA,” which seeks to gather and
distribute three million pieces of rosaries to
children and young adults who are Catechism
students in the remotest areas throughout the
country. Thus, a donate-a-rosary drop box was
placed beside the image of INA at the Chapel.
A small box was also provided for devotees to
drop their petition letters.
After the 12:15pm Mass on September
3, mantles of Our Lady were distributed to
lay ministers who laid them on the head of
parishioners for healing. At 3:00 p.m., with
a shower of rose petals by the community
and singing of Marian songs, INA set off from
Greenbelt Chapel to other venues for devotees
who “gratefully accept and devoutly share”
INA. (Contributed by Alice O. Martinez)
8
Floral offering and Marian
concert at May Flower Festival
Chapel servants and
members
of
the
community
offered
flowers to the Blessed
Mother in all Saturdays
of May celebrating May
Flower Festival. Various
choirs from the Liturgical
Music Group (LMG)
rendered songs honoring
t
h
e
Blessed
Mother
during the
“Harana
Kay Maria”
concert
held
on
May 29, the highlight of the festival. (Photos by
Paul G. Fuentes)
Solemnity of the Assumption of
the Blessed Virgin Mary
Fr. Jun Sescon incenses the image of the
Blessed Mother during the Mass on the feast of
her assumption on August 15. Novena Masses
were also held in her honor from August 6-14.
Memorial of Mary,
Lady of Lourdes
Fr. Jun Sescon blesses the
community after the Mass
celebrating the memorial
of Our Lady of Lourdes on
February 11. Masses on
that day were offered for
the healing of the sick as
the memorial coincided
with the World Day of the
Sick. The Emmanuel Catholic Charismatic
Community (ECCC) led a healing session after
the 7pm Mass. (Photos by Net Oriondo)