Greenleaf - Greenbelt Chapel

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
9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Sunday
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
Counselling
By appoinment
INFORMATION GROUP
is in charge of all information and
communication work of the Greenbelt Chapel,
including the publication of
Greenleaf
Inside
4
5
27th Anniversary Celebration
Messages
Gaudencio B. Cardinal Rosales, D.D.
Rev. Fr. Rufino C. Sescon, Jr.
Atty. Nordy P. Diploma
FOR THE BUSY SOUL
Editor in Chief Edwin P. Galvez
Editors Ma. Chona P. Salvaña
Chato T. Zabarte
9
10
Creatives Richard C. Eusebio
Dimsy V. Lucas
Carmela Marie Y.Victorio
13
Writers Ric M. Castillo, Jr., Puri B. Espeleta
Photographers Paul G. Fuentes, Net L. Oriondo
Information Group-Education Ministry Members
Malu G. Antes, Charity T. Box, Mitch P. Cura,
Jenny M. Flores, Dalia B. Martinez,
Regnard Kreisler C. Raquedan,
Cecile V. Sta. Ana, Emily R. Mones
Assistant Coordinator Edwin P. Galvez
Coordinator Dimsy V. Lucas
Education Ministry Head Marie Angelyn V. Padilla
Fr. Rufino C. Sescon, Jr.
Chaplain
14
15
17
27
35
39
Reflections
Grateful, Faithful and
Fruitful in Christ
History
Evangelization of the people
of Makati continues
The Clergy
Administration
Love-A-Parish Program
15 years of love, generosity
and charity
Service Groups
Worship Ministry
Education Ministry
Healing Ministry
Pillars of Faith
15 minutes from Quezon City
Atty. Nordy P. Diploma
Administrator
“Because there’s a will…”
Farewell, My Brother
Sto. Niño de Paz Community
Greenbelt Chapel
Greenbelt Park, Ayala Center
1228 Makati City, Philippines
Telephone numbers: (02) 7298173 / 7298174
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.greenbeltchapel.org
Our Stories
Joys, struggles and pains
of a servant
43
Litany of Humility
To join the Information Group of Greenbelt Chapel
or send article contributions, feedback and suggestions,
e-mail us at [email protected].
The Cover
This year’s anniversary cover shows a tableau of stained
glass with symbols of nine service groups of the Chapel,
representing a community of servants grateful for the
privilege of serving the Lord in various capacities. The crowd
of people represents the community of faithful flocking the
Chapel as the latter continues with its mission to evangelize
the people of Makati, its communities and families. The
lush trees, which make the Chapel a truly fruitful sanctuary
and a haven of spiritual serenity, represent God’s bountiful
blessings to a grateful and faithful community. (CPS)
Artwork cover designed by Carmela Marie Y. Victorio
and enhanced by Richard C. Eusebio
Anniversary 2010 27th Anniversary Celebration
“Grateful, Faithful and Fruitful in Christ”
Triduum Masses
July 18, Sunday, 6pm
Most Rev. Patricio A. Buzon, SDB, D.D.
Bishop of Kabankalan
July 19, Monday, 5:45pm
Most Rev. Rodolfo F. Beltran, D.D.
Apostolic Vicar of Bontoc-Lagawe
July 20, Tuesday, 5:45pm
Most Rev. Julius S. Tonel, D.D.
Bishop of Ipil
Anniversary Day
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
6pm Concelebrated Eucharistic Celebration
His Excellency
Most Rev. Angel N. Lagdameo, D.D.
Archbishop of Jaro
Main Celebrant
with Fr. Rufino C. Sescon, Jr., our chaplain,
and guest priests serving in Greenbelt Chapel
8pm
Thanksgiving Dinner and Anniversary Concert
Greenbelt Chapel grounds
The Liturgical Music Group (LMG) under the Worship Ministry is this year’s group-in-charge of the anniversary celebration.
LMG is headed by Eric Ganaden with Arnel Vibar as assistant coordinator.
Acknowledgments LMG Committees: Education – Audio-Visual Presentation by Jowell Lagnada, Puri Espeleta, Bong Tamayo, Richard Sydeco, Rolly Jamias, Mimi Po
and Dimsy Lucas, Edwin Galvez & Chona Salvaña (EDUC-Info Group); Temporalities – Anniversary Concert by Jowell Lagnada, Levi Dipasupil, Arnel Vibar, Sta. Cruz Choir,
Allied Bank Chorale, Alay Himig Chorale, Love the Lord Choir; Worship – Pontifical Mass and Triduum Masses by Babes Bardos, Glenda Amador, Terry Gilbuena, Carmelita
Buenafe, SNDP Grand Chorale, One Voice Choir, Alay Himig Chorale, Orion Miranda of His Morning Choir, Bryan Camado, Lenis Cadoy (IPG), Almi Nuguid & Gale Launio
(LECCOM); Dennis del Rosario; chapel staff; fellow servants; Pastoral Council 2010; visiting priests; advertisers; FRD-Greenbelt Sto. Niño de Paz Foundation’s Board of
Trustees; Atty. Nordy P. Diploma; Fr. Jun Sescon; and God Almighty …all for His greater honor & glory!
Love-A-Parish Program
Greenbelt Chapel is a spiritual home where charity
abounds and generosity extends beyond its confines.
Through its Love-A-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 Php 691,375.00
February
816,285.55
March
727,623.20
April
May
668,807.75
662,675.20
FRD-Greenbelt Sto. Niño de Paz Foundation, Inc.
Aided by a lean administrative staff, the foundation manages
the operations of the Chapel and its socio-civic programs.
Members of its Board of Trustees are (from left) Cesar Z.
Gomez, secretary and community representative; Rev. Fr. Jim
Ferry, MM, attached priest; Atty. Ildefonso C. del Rosario, assistant
administrator; Atty. Nordy P. Diploma, administrator; Msgr. Francisco
G. Tantoco, Jr., chairman; and Rev. Fr. Rufino C. Sescon, Jr., chaplain.
The Roman Catholic Archbishop of Manila
121 Arzobispado Street, Intramuros
P.O. Box 132
Manila, Philippines
Congratulations to the Sto. Niño de Paz Community of Greenbelt, Makati City, on your 27th anniversary.
For close to three decades now your community at the heart of the country’s premier business district
has shown steady and consistent growth not only in the number of your members but also in your
members’ spiritual life. These years have made you a vibrant praying, worshipping and serving
community.
The environment of cement and steel towering edifices housing financial institutions, corporations,
and other offices engaged in a wide-range of business enterprises can hardly be viewed as a fitting
setting for a church. But over the years your church has attracted thousands to your regular weekday
and Sunday Masses and to all your other religious activities, such as retreats and recollections. Your
church and community has thus provided an oasis of spiritual rest and nourishment that work-weary
individuals desire.
Your theme, “Grateful, Faithful and Fruitful in Christ” sums up what you have accomplished and also
what more needs to be done. The challenge is ever there, to manifest Christ in the mundane world of
business and finance. To reach out to the people who work in it and make them realize that here, too,
Jesus Christ thrives, not only in the chapel where He is worshipped, but more so in everyone who is
Christ to his/her fellow human being.
Continue being faithful and fruitful and may your thanksgiving be a life of witnessing to the love of
Jesus for you and your love for Jesus and your brothers and sisters.
God bless you all.
Arzobispado de Manila
25 June 2010
+ GAUDENCIO B. CARDINAL ROSALES
Archbishop of Manila
STO. NIÑO DE PAZ COMMUNITY
Greenbelt Park, Ayala Center, Makati City
Tel. Nos. 729-8173 to 74 Mobile No. 0917-8178157
TO THE COMMUNITY OF FAITHFUL IN GREENBELT CHAPEL:
We have for our theme for this year’s anniversary of the Greenbelt Chapel, “Grateful, Faithful and
Fruitful in Christ”.
Hence, I suggest to you that it is the grateful, fruitful, and faithful use of what we have, little or much,
from Our Lord that is the source of our contentment and happiness in Him.
When you take the cup of Providence, what it contains is its contents. Not to drink it because it is only
half-full, or it is not tasteful, or the cup is glass and not silver, is to lose the contents and the source of
discontent. To drink it is an act of contentment.
Hence, by making the most and the best of all your God-given strengths and weaknesses in His service
you are grateful, faithful and fruitful in Christ. You will be happy.
“Where your pleasure is, there is your treasure; where your treasure is, there is your heart; where
your heart is, there is your happiness.” St. Augustine.
In fine, let us also thank our patron, the Sto. Niño de Paz, for our blessings received in this past year
and pray for another grateful, faithful and fruitful year in His service.
Your servant in Christ,
NORDY P, DIPLOMA
Administrator
Greenleaf
STO. NIÑO DE PAZ COMMUNITY
Greenbelt Park, Ayala Center, Makati City
Tel. Nos. 729-8173 to 74 Mobile No. 0917-8178157
A Gracious 27th Anniversary to all of us at Greenbelt Chapel!
This year, our theme is “Grateful, Faithful and Fruitful in Christ”.
Every anniversary is an occasion to be grateful—we give thanks to God for all the blessings He has
bestowed upon us. We return to the Lord all the goodness we have received. We are here because of
Him.
Every anniversary is a call to be faithful—we endured through the years because God has been
so faithful. Our thanksgiving empowers us to be faithful like God. Our celebration renews our
commitment to follow Jesus more closely in our service, relationships, profession and choices in life.
We cultivate Communio, Holiness, Involvement, Love and Docility (CHILD) as a way to be faithful.
Lastly, every anniversary is a challenge to be fruitful—gratitude and fidelity lead us to grow more and
bear much fruit. Just as every Christian is a person for others, every Christian celebration is also for
others. May this jubilee inspire us further to make Greenbelt Chapel a place of conversion, renewal,
holiness and greater love.
All of these can only happen IN CHRIST… He is our motive. He is our strength. He is our goal. Anything
or anyone apart from Christ will wither and die. Greenbelt Chapel without Christ will become a barren
ground even with all the glitters and pomp.
Let me end with a simple prayer…
Loving Father God,
Accept our heartfelt gratitude,
Teach us to be faithful like You,
Nurture our hearts with Your grace,
So that we may present a fruitful offering
Through Christ, with Him and in Him. Amen.
Rev. Fr. Rufino C. Sescon, Jr.
Chaplain
30 June 2010
Grateful, Faithful and Fruitful in Christ
Our stories
“The greatest among you will be your servant. For whoever exalts himself will be
humbled and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” (Matthew 23:11)
The dome-shaped Sto. Niño de Paz (Holy Child of Peace) Community, popularly known as Greenbelt Chapel, is perhaps
the oldest existing landmark in the lush gardens of Greenbelt Park in Makati City.
Where an aviary, a supermarket and fast-food restaurants used to stand two or even three decades ago, the park
still hosts the open-air chapel that looks exactly the way it was designed, even with practical additions like roofs on bridge
entrances and work cubicles.
This is the “small St. Patrick’s Cathedral” that Fanny del Rosario-Diploma imagined and realized 27 years ago. Like
the New York City cathedral close to office buildings that inspired her, the Chapel remains a spiritual oasis for the working
people of the city, among the approximately half a million faithful who visit it every year.
The Chapel she envisioned, helped design and later personally administered until she succumbed to cancer in 1990 has
become a constant source of spiritual strength and nourishment to countless employees,individuals and families.
As the Chapel celebrates its 27th foundation this year, we remember Mrs. Diploma’s staunch faith and almost singular
determination to share the riches of Heaven on earth with us through this spiritual sanctuary. Her faithfulness, despite her
own personal struggles and pains, continue to inspire both servants and the community.
And we, the Chapel’s servants today, share with her a grateful heart for the privilege to serve God and His people, guided
by the values of humility, compassion and love. In this anniversary issue of Greenleaf, we look back on the challenging lives
our past leaders and servants led that bore and continues to bear many fruits of service we enjoy today.
Here are our stories of gratefulness, faithfulness and fruitfulness…
Edwin
Grateful. Faithful. Fruitful.
By Chato Tobias Zabarte
These words are not part of a mantra that accompanies breathing and
meditating exercises. These are virtues that we need to accompany
us in our daily spiritual exercises and pilgrimage to connect us to the
One Supreme Being who created us. They bend and twist us, turn us
over inside out, upside down, pinch, tear and break us apart where
it hurts the most until we take on a new shape molded after the true
nature of our Creator.
But these are only grateful, faithful
and fruitful, you might ask. True. But to truly
embrace and re-shape our life, character and
spirit according to these virtues would require a
gargantuan task of an overhaul job of a wrecked
vehicle and a re-aligned perspective coming from
the other side of the mountain.
Before we can attempt to qualify ourselves
as grateful, a process must first be endured,
beginning from stripping ourselves naked—of
pride, self-aggrandizement, self-centeredness,
of me-my-mine, of vanity—exactly like the Man
on the Cross, whose dignity and personal will
were also taken from Him, whose worth was
lower than that of the criminal’s. He performed
miracles not by His own merits but by the One
Who sent Him. Since He did not deem equality,
He prayed first to His Father before going about
His works, teachings and miracles to glorify Him
and say “thank you”—in an unequalled depth
of gratitude.
Hence, naked and cleansed, we clothe
ourselves anew with humility, not false, but
grateful and apostolic; that quality and state of
a soul so greatly indebted for being nothing and
no one; for being a channel of grace not its source; for being man, for
letting go and letting God.
Faithfulness is predictable and can be manifested outwardly. We
are talking in terms of being faithful by strict adherence to governing
sets of laws, norms and tradition. Like the Pharisees, they washed their
hands and feet and cleaned their cups because their law said so. While
they were faithful to their law to the point of cynicism, they missed
out on the spirit of the law. They rejected Jesus.
Where faithfulness to a covenanted relationship like marriage is
concerned, where the union of two equals to one, the strength and scope
of being faithful to their vows are ingrained in the roles they committed and
signed themselves into, freely and willingly, ‘til death do them part. Similarly,
in the covenant of ordination, the priests must remain forever priests and
faithful to their vows.
The Catholic Church must remain faithful to her Groom, Jesus.
She is both Divine, human and infallible. She must take care of her
brood and guard them against the wolves and disguises of the evil one.
God mandated man to be fertile, to multiply, fill the earth and
subdue it, have dominion over it and other creatures. Now, in the
present and future world of social websites and search engines, God
takes up man to a higher level—go and tell the Good News! In other
words, be fruitful and multiply the population of God-fearing citizens
of the world. In imitation of Jesus, of Mary, of the many saints and
beatified, to live by every word in the Bible is easier said than done.
Indeed, it is a great challenge to be grateful, faithful and fruitful
nowadays. One would rather take the shorter straight route; prefer
to pour hot water over instant concoctions than wait for the gentle
brewing of the ground beans; would rather step on people than the
steps of the corporate ladder; would rather pack the suitcase than
work out a reconciliation; would rather go malling than be present
at the Sunday Eucharistic celebration. Where is man headed for?
Where are we going to?
In our desire to be grateful, faithful and fruitful, let us not
forget to call on the Advocate, the Paraclete, the Holy Spirit. The Third
person in the Trinity will keep the fires burning in our heart and accompany
us in our pilgrimage.
For the past twenty-seven years, the Greenbelt Chapel has been the
sanctuary of people from all walks of life. Here, we are in the company of the
firmament. We are a grateful, faithful and fruitful people and the Chapel is
our home. Let us nurture it. Let us be grateful and support the Love-A-Parish
Program. Let us remain faithful as we continue to nourish ourselves with the
sacraments. And yes, let us be living proofs of Catholic faith in action and
let this action bear fruits.
Reflections
Cycle
By Ma. Chona P. Salvaña
As Greenbelt Chapel celebrates its 27th year this month, one wonders how a chapel in the middle of well-known malls and
tall corporate buildings and hotels has reached this far.
When one is simply looking from the outside, one will not know how it is to be part of the Chapel whether as chaplain, the
Mass presider, a confessor, a servant or a member of the staff.
But when one is an “insider”, viewing it is entirely different. One knows how activities are planned and implemented—
what entails the Mass preparation, how priest-presiders and confessors are invited, and what it takes to disseminate information
on Chapel activities, events and affairs, among others. One comes to know the meaning of spiritual dryness and lifting up in
prayers, of letting go and letting God.
As a servant, life is a cycle of good things and tidings. It is a cycle of gratefulness, faithfulness
and fruitfulness.
One is grateful for all the blessings and graces bestowed by God on his family, friends, plans, dreams, endeavors. He is
thankful for all the trials, sufferings and sacrifices to make him a better and stronger person.
One is faithful to his beliefs, tasks and responsibilities. He is loyal to his principles and commitments, a virtue that endears
him to his fellow servants.
One is fruitful when he shares his abilities and capabilities, his time, talent and treasures. He returns what he has received.
Greenleaf
27 years of Greenbelt Chapel
Evangelization of the people of Makati continues
By Ma. Chona P. Salvaña
Through the past 27 years, Greenbelt Chapel, the spiritual home of the Sto. Niño de Paz
Community, has been a vibrant center of joyful worship, continuing formation, healing
and loving service. Here is a quick look on its past as it continues to be an oasis of
spiritual sustenance to a growing community in the heart of Makati.
1977
Inspired by St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City, the late Fanny del Rosario-Diploma
and her husband, Atty. Nordy P. Diploma, presented plan to build a chapel to Rev. Fr.
Edgar Saginsin, who facilitated a meeting and consultation with the late Jaime Cardinal
Sin, Archbishop of Manila.
1983
The late foundress Fanny Diploma and Atty. Nordy Diploma with Don Jaime Zobel de
Ayala and Cardinal Sin at the inauguration and blessing of Sto. Niño de Paz CommunitySto. Niño de Paz Community-Greenbelt Chapel was blessed and inaugurated on July
Greenbelt Chapel.
28. First chaplains were the Salesians of Don Bosco (SDB); succeeded by Msgr. Jose
“Chito” Bernardo (1986); Msgr. Jaime Mora (1989) assisted by Fr. Jim Ferry, MM; Rev. Fr. Jose Mario “Jojo” B. Maximiano (mid-1991); Rev. Fr. Anton
CT Pascual (late 1991); Msgr. Mylo Hubert C. Vergara (mid-2000); Fr. Pericles “Prex” Fajardo (2001). Present chaplain, Rev. Fr. Rufino “Jun” Sescon, Jr.
assumed office in 2005.
1992
Greenbelt Chapel opened its doors to volunteers, eventually called servants.
1993
Homegrown charismatic community, the
Emmanuel Catholic Charismatic Community
(ECCC), was formed on May 16.
1995
Love-A-Parish Program (LAPP), flagship
project of the FRD-Greenbelt Sto. Nino de Paz
Foundation, was launched to provide financial
support to poor parishes in the country and
institutions of charity.
2001
Greenbelt Chapel is a haven of spiritual nourishment to a growing community in the heart of
Makati—31 Eucharistic celebrations and 90 hours for confession every week, community talks,
retreats and pilgrimages and charismatic worship, healing and renewal.
A memorandum of agreement, the guiding
instrument in running the pastoral and administrative affairs of the Chapel, was ratified and signed. 7pm
Mass on weekdays and 7:15am Mass on Sundays were added. Sacrament of Reconciliation became
available from 7am to 8pm on weekdays and 9am to 8pm on weekends.
Healing of the sick takes place regularly in the Chapel through the
Emmanuel and Greenbelt Healing Ministry.
2005
LAPP beneficiaries reached 400, including charitable institutions like the Missionaries of Charity of Mother Teresa, Caritas Manila, Poor Clares, Verbum
Dei, Tahanan ng Mabuting Pastol, Carmelite Sisters of Bacolod and the Makati District Catechetical Ministry.
2006
Servants’ Mass, instituted by Rev. Fr. Jun Sescon, was originally celebrated every first Monday of the
month. Now held every first Wednesday, the Mass gathers servants for thanksgiving and introduces a
service group (Group in Focus) and its roles and functions to the community.
2008
Greenbelt Chapel celebrated its 25th anniversary or Silver Jubilee from July to August with thematic and
novena Masses, Jubilee eve and day Masses, inspirational talk, musical presentations and tributes to the
foundress and silver jubilarians and sports competitions participated in by servants and community.
2010
Greenbelt Chapel continues to be a place offering God’s presence and presents through 31 Eucharistic celebrations and 90 hours for confession every
week, community talks, retreats and pilgrimages and charismatic worship, healing and renewal. It now has more than 600 servants and provides
support to 413 LAPP beneficiaries, including charitable institutions and poor parishes in 79 dioceses nationwide.
The Clergy
REV. FR. RUFINO C. SESCON, JR.
Chaplain
FR. JOSEPH GIL ALONZO
FR. RIC ARAGON
FR. JUANITO ARROCO
FR. BERNIE BACSAL
FR.BLAS BRIONES
FR. ROY BELLEN
FR. BENHUR BORJA, SDB
FR. BERNIE CARPIO
FR. PATRICK CASIÑO, MSP
FR. DAVE CONCEPCION
FR. ROMEO CONVOCAR
FR. ERWIN DELA CRUZ
FR. VICTOR ALLAN DICHOSO
FR. LEO DOLOIRAS
FR. GENARO DIWA
FR. CONSTANTINUS FATLOLAN
MSGR. BIBOY FIGURA
FR. PERICLES FAJARDO
FR. MATTHEW FERNANDEZ
FR. JIM FERRY, MM
FR. BENJO FAJOTA
FR. ULRICH GACAYAN
FR. JOSE GARCIA
FR. EFREN DE GUZMAN, SVD
FR. ANDY DE GUZMAN, SDB
FR. JEROME HERNANDEZ
FR. JOEL JASON
FR. MAUI JADRAQUE, MSP
FR. CESAR LAZO
FR. JASON LAGUERTA
FR. MON MERINO
FR. HANS MAGDURULANG
FR. ELI MANLANGIT, OFM
FR. PAUL MARQUEZ, SSP
FR. ARVIN MOSQUEDA
FR. MANUEL NICOLAS, SDB
FR. INO NGUTRA
FR. ELADIO OLIVER, MSP
FR. ANTON CT PASCUAL
FR. REY REYES, SSP
FR. SIMPLICIO ROXAS
FR. JOSEPH SOUW HONG
FR. JOEY SEPE
FR. JEROME SECILLANO
FR. KORNELIS SERALARAT
FR. FRANCIS SALCEDO
FR. MARIO SOBREJUANITE, SSP
FR. LUDOVICO TACDORO, SSP
FR. DANIEL TANSIP
FR. LARRY TAN, SDB
MSGR. FRANCISCO TANTOCO
FR. NILANTHA UDUWAKE
FR. IKE VELOSO, SDB
FR. JO YU
FR. PAUL YOYOHAKIM
Administration
By Chato Tobias Zabarte
The other face of the Chapel
It was my late Dad who first told me subsequently resigned from Perea St. and gave the interesting way of how he correlated the
about the Chapel in Greenbelt in the mid- birth the same year.
Gospel of the day to the life lived for that day
eighties when I asked him once
that opened my one-knob door
why he went to Makati Commercial
with a bang. That once-a-week
Center on Sundays. For I seldom
guest priest would later become
went to the area, I could not picture
that chaplain who for the next nine
in my mind how the Chapel came
years changed the direction of not
about in the middle of an aviary. He
only my life but also the lives of
just said to try and go there because
thousands that now make up the
it was so clean and sparklingly white
composite index of the Greenbelt
inside, so peaceful and so very near
Chapel community of servants and
heaven. Finally, a new job on Perea
the faithful at large.
St. and my former boss who owned
In 1993, I responded
the Beverly Hills Deli restaurant
to Fr. Anton Pascual’s call for
paved the way for fate and destiny
servant-volunteers and joined the
that gave reality and truth to my
Social Outreach Services (SOS)
Dad’s description and invitation.
ministry. Other worship and paraElma
Villanueva,
the
liturgical ministries were formed
chaplain’s secretary at the time and
including the Emmanuel Catholic
Chaplain Fr. Jun Sescon (center) with (from left) former chapel staff Connie Puno, assistant administrator
whom I never knew from before, Atty. Chito del Rosario, secretary to the administrator Belinda Morales and administration assistant Dennis Charismatic Community (ECCC),
del Rosario.
spotted me in the Chapel and asked
and all the ministry heads became
me if I could lead the rosary before the 5:45 PM
For the next two years I put up my own members of the newly-organized Pastoral
Mass.
business outside of Makati. Yet I missed the Council.
I obliged and was told to do it from the corporate life and felt not ready to go on an
This Council headed by Atty. Pat
ambo. So for fifteen minutes, I stood up there early retirement. My former officemates out Vera, planned and managed the liturgical
enduring leg cramps because I was five months of the blue contacted me and asked that I go activities and services of the Chapel while the
pregnant with my second son.
back because my post had long been vacant. I Administration Office headed by Atty. Nordy P.
There were times when she would ask did not waste time at all. Full of excitement, I Diploma as Administrator, took care of all the
me to stay due to lack of servants and read the went back to Perea St. and to my almost daily temporalities including the charitable projects
liturgy. This short stint as servant was in 1990 lunchtime Mass at Greenbelt Chapel.
like Love-A-Parish Program.
when the number of Massgoers significantly
But it was the power of the voice on the
swelled after the Baguio earthquake.
I microphone on Wednesday lunch Masses and
Continued on next page 16...
Love-A-Parish Program (LAPP)
Fifteen years of love, generosity and charity
Regular Mass goers at Greenbelt Chapel
are probably aware of the Love-A-Parish Program
(LAPP) that, as usually announced in Masses,
supports 413 poor parishes and other charitable
institutions around the country.
The bulletin board at the main entrance
bridge of the Chapel even displays a map of the
Philippines indicating the regions reached by this
program together with letters of gratitude from
various parish priests and bishops acknowledging
the financial assistance they received. The board
also shows a report of love offerings collected
monthly.
Established in 1995, LAPP is the flagship
project of the FRD-Greenbelt Sto. Nino de Paz
Foundation that serves as a channel of charity
to poor and far-flung parishes in the country
and institutions such as Missionaries of Charity
of Mother Teresa, the Poor Clares and Caritas
Manila. It is a social outreach program borne
out of the love and generosity of the Greenbelt
Chapel community.
By Ma. Purificacion “Puri” B. Espeleta
Letters received from some of these
parish-beneficiaries convey a spirit of gratefulness
for the community’s financial support, enabling
them to become more fruitful in their mission
of evangelization.
Take the case of San Roque Parish in
San Felipe, Zambales, LAPP beneficiary since
1997, which rose from the ashes of the calamity
wrought by the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo in
1991. The church building collapsed but
was rebuilt in 1993, and is now actively
engaged in various programs
that include a literacy and
numeracy program for Aetas
and catechetical instruction for
children of Indigenous Peoples.
These programs are sustained by
the support they get from LAPP.
Similarly, the St. Rose of
Lima Parish in Cabangan, Zambales
credits the LAPP for its engagement
in catechetical
apostolate and
empowerment
of the youth
ministry. The town
populated by some
19,000 Catholics is
separated by rivers
and mountains;
thus, sending three
full-time and 12
volunteer catechists
to 22 different public
schools and a public
high school within
the parish to teach
Basic Catechism of
the Faith requires
considerable
transportation budget.
The same holds true for St. Paul’s Parish in
Poblacion, Tuba, Benguet and San Roque Parish
in Catarman, Camiguin. The financial aid they
receive
through LAPP is used for the Basic
Ecclesial Community Formation
and training of lay leaders
as well as transportation of
catechists and priests to
far-flung areas under the
jurisdiction of the parish.
When majority
of the parishioners are
farmers and skilled
workers with only a
few professionals
like in the case of
Sagrado Corazon
de Jesus Parish
in Lo-oc,
Lamitan City,
Basilan, Mass
collections
alone
are
insufficient to maintain
parish facilities, implement
pastoral programs and even
provide honorarium for the parish
secretary and staff. But because of
LAPP, these needs are being met.
These are but glimpses of how the
Greenbelt Chapel community has concretely
helped five of the more than 400 parishes all over
the country under its Love-A-Parish Program.
Through this program, a simple act of offering
even only a small portion of our blessings make
a big difference in the lives of our countless
brethren. Indeed, LAPP is an avenue for the
Greenbelt Chapel community to participate in
the building of God’s kingdom here on earth.
confessional, the office and the sacristy. Within
Dennis was a welcome addition to the
four years, the admin and chaplain’s offices staff. He was younger, aggressive and eager to
were constructed.
learn. Like a sponge, he absorbed anything and
My work as the first Pastoral Coordinator observed everything. He was the driver and
demanded the balance of both the brains and messenger until he was tasked to handle clerical
skills of the corporate world on one hand, work to become the Admin Assistant, a position
and the heart and compassion of volunteer he effectively performs to the present. He
apostolate on the other. The underhand was liaises between Administration and the Pastoral
my family factor. It was “mortal sin” for me Council and lately, manages the schedule of the
to be absent on Sundays, Holy Week and vigil priests, a responsibility he assumed after Rica
celebrations of Easter, Christmas and New Ardon was moved to the Chaplain’s office and
Year. Execution of projects must be flawless eventually retired.
and every vigil was a master production. I
I resigned in November 1997 to work
At the Black & White Servants’ Christmas party (from left, front
composed special or thematic prayers and as Executive Secretary to the Venezuelan
row): the late Amy Arenas, Lydia Vergara, Chato Zabarte, pastoral
managed information dissemination facilities. Ambassador.
coordinator; (back) Ditas Camacho and Emil Leonor.
I had to be knowledgeable of all the functions N o r m a
a
It was on the transient nature of the of the ministries and a good grasp of their daily Jaymalin,
schedules, retreats and c a t e c h i s t ,
Council and servants that Fr. Anton
trainings. Therefore, took
over
decided to hire a regular staff
in order to be efficient my position
to assist him in monitoring the
at what I did, I bought except
the
liturgical activities. He talked to me
books and studied N e w s l e t t e /
about it and gave enough time for
everything about the Greenleaf and
me to consider because the place
liturgy, the seasons, the the Easter vigil
and scope of work would require
different parts of the Mass.
Rose Lenten Recollection 2002 with the then Bishop Soc
a drastic change in paradigm and
Villegas, now Archbishop of Lingayen-Pangasinan,
Mass, the Canon, the Navarro left Chato Zabarte and Norma Jaymalin.
lifestyle.
saints and consulted followed
by
I hesitated but God had a
with Fr. Anton and Fr. Elma. Dra. Remy Sison, elder sister of Atty.
way of fulfilling His will. A jeep
Jim Ferry. I also re- Chito del Rosario, soon joined Admin. When
almost ran me over from behind.
polished my skills in she passed away, Rica, a former nurse, took
My Bible that I was clutching fell
writing, editing and lay- over.
to the ground between the rear
out. For the first time,
tires of the jeep and my face. The
too, the Sunday snacks
driver couldn’t see me but by some
for servants were
miracle, he suddenly stepped on
delivered from my
his brake. This
kitchen.
freak
accident
All
the
sent me rushing
decorations
to the healing
assigned to me were
session of ECCC
carried out with the
and to Fr. Anton
(left to right) Lydia Vergara, the late Cardinal Sin,
help of Jun Estor.
to tell him I was
Chato Zabarte and Angie Dy
He was the alltaking the offer.
around handyman.
Not long after, Belinda Morales, the longMy new job
He entered holes, time ever efficient secretary of Atty. Diploma,
title was Pastoral
spliced cables and joined the Admin team. She is a chameleon just
Coordinator, and
climbed tall ladders like all the servant-volunteers who go to work
Elma became my
to hang angels, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. They punctuate
officemate. Atty.
top) The late foundress Fanny del Rosario-Diploma, who was the first
Christmas trees and their weekdays at the Chapel’s office till closing
Chito del Rosario (From
Chapel administrator and servant; present Chapel administrator Nordy Diploma
time.
was then, till and assistant administrator Chito del Rosario.
Lina Edquila and Alice
now, the Assistant
Martinez joined Administration
Administrator. With him was Annie Cruz who banners from the dome
as chapel assistants. Rolly Puno,
was together with me in the SOS ministry. The ceiling. That’s how he got
Hanseldon Eslafor and part
other regular staff ahead of me were Jun Estor, the nickname “Jun Akyat”.
time staffers Rowena Palma
Connie Puno, Victor Cabintoy, Luisa Prado and He opted to retire and
and Dahlia Martinez make up
Angel Rama. They were the persons tasked was replaced by Herminio
the rest of the team. Together,
with the maintenance and upkeep of the Chapel Adriano. Victor, a simple
they provide the firm grounds of
facilities and were trained by the late founder, quiet man, has always
efficient and constant support
Fanny R. Diploma, who been taking care of the
in order that the servantrequired nothing less than plants and goes around Assistant Administrator Chito del Rosario
with his hand tractor. Connie and Luisa always volunteers would be able to carry out their
spick, span and orderly.
About two years passed the rags on the pews and kneelers, functions. Apart from pitching in for some
after I joined, Rose and swept the floor so clean that Massgoers servants, they also provide the extra mile of
Navarro was re-hired, automatically placed their handcarry on it camaraderie, friendship and bonding that make
followed by Dennis del and did not worry about dirt. Connie, like serving at Greenbelt Chapel reminiscent of the
Rosario, who was fresh Jun, opted to retire. Angel, the one in charge first Christian communities established by our
from overseas work. That of documenting the Mass collection had long forefathers in faith.
Chapel staff Lina Edquila
time, too, we had only the retired and then succumbed to heart attack.
Continued... Administration
Service Groups
Worship Ministry
The Worship Ministry is the biggest among the three ministries
in Greenbelt Chapel based on the number of service groups under it,
five of which are directly involved in Eucharistic
celebrations.
Its service groups are the
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion
(EMHC), Altar Servers Group (ASG), Lectors
& Commentators (LECCOM), Liturgical Music
Group (LMG), Greeters and Collectors Group
(G&C), Intercessory Prayer Group (IPG) and
Liturgical Environment Group (LEG).
To be appointed head of this ministry
takes discernment on the part of the chaplain
if the servant is, indeed, God’s chosen one. For
the servant, it takes courage and faith to accept
bigger responsibilities for he has only one year
to prove his worth. It is a humbling experience
to serve his fellow servants while he is the
servant-leader of servant-leaders.
Quietly, the chaplain depends on his
help and assistance, believes in his wisdom and
respects his decisions. Along the way, he also
learns from the ups and downs, frustrations,
disappointments, happiness, and joys of service,
which is not all honor and glory. It is not enough that he is close to
the chaplain for pastoral matters, but he must also be sensitive being
the “mediator” between the chaplain, the administrator or staff and
servant-leaders. Thus, he must be fair and objective.
His journey is not easy, much more when he is caught in a
historical milestone of the chapel as Becky Domingo could attest.
Liturgical Music Group
As head during the transition of chaplaincy from Fr. Prex Fajardo to Fr.
Jun Sescon, she ensured that each activity can sanctify the servants and
community, and give glory to God.
On a different level, Angie Dy, who
served from 2003 to 2004, worked hard to
continue making the liturgical services more
meaningful and alive. Dealing with servantleaders with different backgrounds, character
traits and temperaments, Angie became more
considerate and learned to overcome her
timidity. She discovered qualities in her that
she never thought she had.
It is, however, the prerogative of the
chaplain to extend his term as in the case of
Romy Dela Rosa, who was reappointed in 2008.
Romy felt that God still had a mission for him
and wanted him to continue as an instrument
of His plan for the community. With his special
charism as a leader, Romy focused on nurturing
harmonious relationships among servants and
servant-leaders.
It is a herculean task to lead seven
service groups with 14 coordinators and assistant coordinators, to be asked
for decisions by the administration, to be sought for advice by servants,
to be asked of opinions by fellow leaders from other parishes under the
Vicariate and to be called by the chaplain anytime.
In the end, the ministry head reflects, “It is between me and my
God”. Introductions by Ma. Chona P. Salvaña
Singing: A profound expression
of gratefulness, faithfulness and
fruitfulness in Christ
“Song and music are closely connected with
the liturgical action. The criteria for their
proper use are the beauty expressive of prayer,
the unanimous participation of the assembly
and the sacred character of the celebration.”
(Cathechism of the Catholic Church #1191)
Taking its inspiration from St. Augustine’s
famous adage, “Singing is twice praying”, the
Liturgical Music Group (LMG) adds, “Sing from
the heart”, as chaplain Fr. Jun Sescon told
them. The Greenbelt Chapel choirs are known
to render songs beautifully and play uplifting
music. Not a few from the community had
approached a choir to praise them or ask for
copies of songs and music. And the choir is
never selfish in sharing its talent—even their
songs and music are brought to other countries.
LMG today
Twenty-six choral ensembles make up
the Liturgical Music Group (LMG) today, the
biggest service group in Greenbelt Chapel with
260 members. LMG aims to enliven various liturgical
celebrations of the Chapel and thus encourage
the community to participate in the soulful and
meticulous rendition of songs lovingly dedicated
to God. The group envisions not only to become
Continued on next page...
Extraordinary Ministers of the Holy Communion
Reverential service
Among the three groups under the Worship Ministry is the
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (EMHC), who are very
visible during Eucharistic celebrations. They have the most sensitive
and reverential service—holding the sacred host and distributing
them to the communicants.
A Eucharistic Minister must be a model of good character and
moral conduct, setting good examples not only inside the Chapel but
also outside of it. His work does not end after he returns his hood in
the sacristy and puts on his secular clothes. For committed servants
of good standing to the church—no matter where they are, no matter
what they do—have a spiritual commitment to uphold the sanctity
of the Eucharist
and administer
it, especially to
the physically
i m p a i r e d
believers. Their service
extends beyond the
dome structure of the
Chapel as it is in their
apostolate to bring
Holy Communion to
the sick and physically
incapacitated.
A lot is
The brothers in one of candid shots with Fr. Jun
expected from the
Eucharistic Ministry coordinator and his assistant. Besides their regular
responsibilities, the coordinators must be actively part of the regular
monthly Worship and Pastoral Council meetings so that Chapel programs
and activities can be disseminated to members.
Since 1993, EMHC’s past coordinators and assistant coordinators
included Deo Simbol, Lito Despues, Ely Punsalan, Billy Liwanag, Romy
Dela Rosa and Anton Ventura(+). On their
second term this year are Joseph Lim and
Doods Sison as coordinator and assistant
coordinator, respectively. They have known
how it is to be a servant in the true sense
of the word—meek, humble and obedient.
At the foot of the altar of Christ, they lift
up their concerns, seek wisdom and mercy
and offer their service for the glory of God. The lay ministers at a Palm Sunday celebration.
This group is quite busy during some liturgical seasons, particularly
on Ash Wednesday and Holy Week. It is an unwritten rule not to complain
when extended services are required or requested, rain or shine.
(EMHC story by Joseph Lim and Ma. Chona P. Salvaña)
Continued...Singing
a cohesive affiliation of choral groups, instrumentalists, composers and
other music protégés in the community but also to become an active and
well-rounded organization composed of disciplined, God-centered, servicedriven and vision-oriented individuals unified by these common passions:
• To hone and perfect our God-given talent on music
• To effectively contribute to and propagate choral literature
• To intensify the community’s appreciation of choral music
as an effective and
proactive way of
evangelizing people;
thus, allowing them
to nurture and
spread God’s word
and grace.
LMG’s story strongly
m a n i fe st s t h e m e m b e rs ’
unwavering gratefulness for
God’s blessings, faithfulness
in spreading His word and the
fruitfulness they enjoy through
Christ’s unconditional love.
Fifteen choirs initially The Children’s choir, one of the regular choirs in the chapel
began serving in the Chapel after invitations were sent to various choirs
of different parishes and other interested groups from 1985 to 1990.
The foundational requirements that laid down the core existence of the
ministry were brought up to and addressed by the Chapel administration.
From generation to generation, LMG leaders contributed greatly
to the liturgical progress and development of the group, among them
Cindy Genato, Dennis Villafuerte, Yvonne Salcedo and Lyvia Acosta.
In 1990, Rolly Jamias became the coordinator of LMG. He advocated
for and commenced with the establishment of choirs in response to the
vision of then chaplain Fr. Anton Pascual to make the Chapel the center of
praise and worship in the Makati Central Business District.
By this time, the number
of choirs has grown to 24. The
holding of Healing Masses
led to the creation of the
Emmanuel Catholic Charismatic
Community (ECCC) Choir. The
group also established a Praise
and Worship library containing
s o n g b o o k s a s re fe re n c e
materials for the accredited
choirs. Improvement of
sound system commenced to
encourage the community to
actively participate in various
chapel activities.
Levi Dipasupil, member of the Love the Lord Choir, assumed
leadership from 2001 to 2002. During this period, 26 choirs regularly
Continued on page 37
Lectors and Commentators Group
Running through the pages
Five forty-five in the morning, I found
myself dashing along the streets to the
Greenbelt Park. Darn. The price you have to
pay for gaining a 32-inch waistline at the age of
26! And like being pulled by some unexplainable
force to the chapel, in no time, my legs slowed
down and eventually gave up when I reached
the very first kneeler behind a long white pew.
Not long after I realized I was kneeling
there, not praying but just resting my weary
legs. I sat down and appreciated all the beauty
my eyes can behold inside this sanctuary I’m in.
A holy ground surrounded by green
serenity in the heart of a busy business district.
Perhaps when the late Fanny Diploma, the
foundress, envisioned this dream, I wondered
how many people doubted that her dream
would ever materialize. But her dream finally
took shape in July 1983 when Sto. Niño de Paz
Community was opened to public. Then the
mission began: to proclaim the Word of God.
The fly pages
There was no
one at first. Nobody to
serve. Nobody…even to
proclaim the Word of
God. But Fanny Diploma
understood that she
Ross holding the Book of the Gospel
was just on the fly
in procession.
pages of the Chapel’s history. She became one
of the first lectors, if not the first, to verbalize
the Holy Scriptures in the altar, and later on,
invited some friends and Mass goers to serve as
lectors, some of whom are still actively serving.
struck by its grandeur. Lil had to probe on the
intentions of the applicants and chose only
those who were committed and sincere over
those who might just use the altar as another
performance space. For seven years, Lil toiled
hard to grow the numbers and she successfully
did.
But just when intensive LECCOM
recruitment had yielded impressive results,
the unexpected happened— the incumbent
chaplain loved by servants was transferred to
a different assignment. In sympathy, a number
of lectors also left the community while some
lost their passion to serve. LECCOM was left
in an adverse circumstance. When the new
chaplain arrived, groups were reorganized and
new coordinators were appointed. LECCOM
Developing the “arm”
Listening to the stories of more tenured
members of the Lectors and Commentators
(LECCOM) Group whenever we gather during
Chapel occasions is something worth my time
(I might be a bit radical but believe me, I love
listening to historical narrations).
As I was told, there were no service
“boundaries” at that time. Everybody served in
the Chapel in any way he could. But to establish
a deeper sense of commitment among
volunteers, groups were organized, while
leaders were appointed to ensure that things
were done accordingly in their respective
service groups. Then, LECCOM was born under
the stewardship of its first coordinator, Lilia
Tolentino.
Looking for good readers in a district
frequented by professionals is never difficult,
but finding a “proclaimer” in the throng is the
real challenge. Lil faced this at the start of her
term. Many were attracted to serve in the
new chapel because they were in great awe,
The proclaimers of the Word of God in their candid photo with Fr. Jun.
found light in the hands of its new leader, Gie
Liwanag.
Picking up the pieces
When Gie assumed leadership, LECCOM
was, to use a trite idiom, “a ship without a
captain,” she thought. She didn’t expect that it
was worse than that. She was even diplomatic
in describing to me the state of the group
then, but my impression was LECCOM was
no more than “a captain-less ship without a
destination…”
As there was no proper turnover of
responsibilities (not even with the documents),
Gie literally began with nothing yet she knew
she needed to reinvigorate the dispirited group.
But how can she do that if she couldn’t even
contact her members? With no directory or
information sheets, I thought it would be easier
for her to organize a TODA (Tricycle Owners and
Drivers Association) than to gather her lectors.
But no one can stop someone with a
high spirit.
It was an arduous undertaking, but Gie
managed to find ways to gather the group.
Everything she did was anchored on her prayer,
“Lord, please let me know the difference
between right and wrong because in
doing so, I know I will never go wrong.”
With the help of her assistant
coordinator Olive Ravasco, she was
able to manually gather information
on the servants and also asked them
to re-invite fellow lectors who lay low
on their service and recruit friends to
serve.
The two even attended Masses
daily in the chapel to identify the
lectors who regularly went to mass
and asked them to serve when
assigned lectors are not around. The “buddy
system” was also conceptualized, forming
phone brigades to ensure that members kept
their service schedules.
Gie encouraged all the lectors to also
serve as commentators during the Mass
because back then, only a few (mostly male
members) served as commentators.
To make serving at the Chapel more
inviting, she was of those who suggested to the
Continued on next page...
Continued...Running
Pastoral Council that the annual
retreat for the servants’ spiritual growth be
fully subsidized while the summer outing be
subsidized by half. She also suggested that
LECCOM members voluntarily contribute to
Nizza, who was assistant coordinator
then, didn’t expect to suddenly assume Patty’s
role for they were geared up to implement
their plans together. Given hold of the steering
wheel, she realized one thing…there was no
turning back.
Nizza dealt deeper with the “quantity
have the same level of commitment on some
things due to their different priorities. So she
then understood her role: to fill in for them.
If she were asked to head LECCOM again,
she said she would never hesitate to accept the
assignment. She believes though that new
members have more dynamic ideas that are
essential to the growth of the group and they
should also be given the chance to show what
they’ve got.
Not too young at all
The members outside the building of their retreat house in Tagayaty City this year.
a fund for sick servants, which other service
groups adopted.
After three years, Gie was succeeded by
Cindy Genato with Sofia Murillo from July 2003
to April 2004. Unfortunately, Cindy was not
able to finish her term due to personal reasons.
Seeing her genuine desire to serve, Gie was
asked by the chaplain to reassume leadership
of the group.
Up until the end of her term, Gie never
allowed her passion to serve die down. In fact,
she even encouraged three of her children to
also serve in the Chapel. Her continuous service
to this day is her gift to the Lord in gratitude for
the many graces He has bestowed on her and
her loved ones.
Say it right
After rebuilding LECCOM for more than
two years, Gie was succeeded by Patty Tiangco.
A silent yet devout servant whose
dedication
was
unquestionable,
Patty
recognized the next-level need of the group.
She focused on the rigid screening of applicants,
probing not only their sincerity and dedication
but very particularly on what lectors ought to
possess…good communication skills.
She made sure members were given
necessary feedback on their proclamation skills,
whether good or otherwise, and that these
were taken positively by the people concerned.
But due to personal reasons, Patty needed to
relinquish stewardship of the group to the very
surprised Nizza Abello.
vs. quality” drive during her term from 2004
to 2006 with Mimi Kho as her assistant
coordinator. In line with their initiatives, the
group even hired a professional trainer during
technical formations to correct common speech
lapses, especially in pronunciation, word stress
and accent, with every member given one-onone feedback. A dictionary was also provided
to serve as additional reference.
Despite her steady pace, she soon
realized she couldn’t oblige everyone to sail
with her on the same boat. Some members
were uncooperative, refusing to join the chapel
activities. Instead of getting disheartened, she
learned to appreciate the support she could get.
“Having servants to proclaim during the masses
was already something big to be thankful for”,
she thought then.
Through this, Nizza took a wider
understanding of the members’ situation, of
where they were coming from, that they didn’t
The group’s retreat in Tagaytay City this year with Fr. Armand Robleza, SDB.
Perhaps Mimi Kho was the youngest
member to lead the LECCOM yet her very
friendly and approachable demeanor endeared
her to the group. Her enthusiasm to serve can
never be taken away from her as she connected
the younger servants to the tenured ones (Ok,
I’m trying not to be too harsh).
But like everybody else, her leadership
was also put to the test. Her dedicated service
was interpreted negatively by some people who
tried to pin her down. Instead of minding the
taunts, she continued doing what she thought
was right, with a clear conscience and a sincere
heart.
During her term from 2006 to 2008,
LECCOM’s official e-group was created, which
maximized the use of the Net to communicate
with members. Like other leaders, she also
became very involved to ensure that all services
were attended to and everyone knew what to
do, including filling
in service slots that
no one wanted to
get.
She
has
always
adhered
to the belief that
lectors
should
contribute
in
making
every
E u c h a r i s t i c Former coordinator Mimi Kho.
celebration solemn and help bring people
closer to the Lord with our proclamation. On a
personal level, she found her role as coordinator
both challenging and fulfilling as it also taught
her to be humble and compassionate to others.
Against all odds, Mimi, whose capacity
was doubted at the start, completed her term
with Flor del Mar as her assistant coordinator,
proving that one is never weak if she turns the
other cheek.
Altar Servers Group
Dedicated young servants
The Altar Servers Group (ASG), which
supports all tasks at the altar, carries and
fetches altar vessels, rings the bells or assists
the priest during Mass and other liturgical
services, among other forms of assistance as
may be needed
Many
names
have been given
to this ministry by
some priests in
the country or the
universal church
itself.
Some of
these names are
still being used
today such as
At Easter Vigil celebration
Knights of the
Altar, popularly used in Don Bosco communities,
and Altar Boys, which was common during the
olden Catholic days.
In the olden times, one can only serve
at the altar if he is preparing for priesthood.
Altar servers belong to the minor order of
Acolytes, and levels existed before you could be
one, starting from Tonsures. During the advent
of Vatican II as described in the Apostolic Letter
of Pope Paul VI, “Ministeria Quaedam”, service
in the altar became open
to the laity, eradicating
the minor orders. Thus,
anyone can serve the
church through the altar
after completing the
required training and
spiritual formation.
Members
of
the Chapel’s Altar Servers
Group are guided by their
Continued...Running
Given her corporate orientation, Baby
empowered her members by distributing the
group’s tasks evenly, giving ordinary members
a chance to head working committees. This
developed in them a sense of responsibility
and accountability, which reinvigorated the
Squeezed in
I barely knew Baby de Guzman back
then. I thought she was just another elite lady
I usually see at Mass wrapped in an elegant
and, for sure, expensive pashmina. I asked
the other servants if they had heard of her but
neither did they. Then, she finally had a face
after she was introduced to the group as our
new coordinator. A few were surprised, and so
was she! But there is a reason for this. Nothing
happens by chance.
This career woman thought she was
and will never be a “coordinator material”! As
a critical decision-maker in the company where
she works, Baby never thought something
could still be squeezed into her tight schedule.
With her mind and heart in a joust, Baby came
to realize one thing: She’s a servant and the
right to turn her back to her Lord who is calling
her name will never be hers.
When she began, scarcity of lectors,
diverse personalities and high expectations
from members, besides the demands of being
a family woman, were among the yokes Baby
had to carry throughout her term from 2008
to 2010. But she managed to get through
all these the “Baby” way with the help of
assistant coordinator Angie Padilla and later, Vi
Hernandez.
motto: “We are called to serve and not to be
served”, knowing that God called them despite
having hectic days in the office or school.
The group has the youngest servants in the
The members in one of their fellowships
LECCOM members in one of their fellowships
group and encouraged more participation in
the activities.
Despite the shortcomings of members,
Baby was always in their defense. Conflicts
and misunderstandings among members were
confined to and resolved within the group.
She made sure decisions were supported by a
majority of members and properly explained
community whose ages range from nine to 25
years, but despite their young age, they are
fully committed and dedicated to serve God.
These children may giggle at the start
of the Mass, but during their service, their faces
show sincerity and dedication in their service,
which reflect how their parents reared them
to be conscious of God’s love and our response
as his beloved. Jolly, young and free may best
describe the altar servers, but the character
they exhibit in every Mass mirrors their true
selves even when they are away from the
pedestal of the altar.
(Story by Deo de Asis, coordinator, 2010)
to the rest. She became a real mother to
members, something that cannot be taken
away from her.
Looking back, Baby would not say she
got through everything satisfactorily as there
were still a lot of things to be “patched” when
her term ended. She also humbly admitted she
would not even pass the set standards if she
were to evaluate herself. But what gives her
reason to smile is that, by the Lord’s standards,
she would have at least earned a passing mark.
Baby did not have the luxury of time
given her busy corporate life, but neither did
she become selfish in sharing part of it for His
greater glory.
All the things we, lectors and
commentators, now enjoy are the fruits of
the labor and toil of our past LECCOM leaders,
a good reason to be thankful to the Lord for
their legacy and to them as well for giving all
their best in serving Him through the Greenbelt
Chapel Community..
Seven in the morning…Mass to start in
15 minutes. Lectors are already standing in line
for the procession. New faces. The new recruits.
Heard them during the screening and they were
pretty good. Can we keep them? Will they stay
and grow spiritually in this community? Well,
maybe the new coordinators, Almi Nuguid and
her assistant, got some fresh ideas how…
(LECCOM story by Gale Launio, assistant
coordinator, 2010)
Greeters and Collectors Group
Welcoming and warm presence
Ready with a welcoming smile and warm
greeting, the ushers and usherettes collectively
known as the Greeters & Collectors Group
(G&C) are the first servants Mass goers see
upon entering the Greenbelt Chapel. Composed
of professionals and students, the group was
previously called the Ministry of Collection and
Order.
G&C is also referred to as a “Ministry to
the People” with each
member expected to be
a “people person”. Their
service reflects the idea
that the Church is our
home and everyone is a
member of the family of
G&C servants Julie, Krishelle and
God. They embody the
Manang Nitz with Chapel
staff Alice (second from right)
ideal Church-builders
with Julie Gonzales in 2005, Julie Gonzales with
Adie Caday from 2006 to 2008 and Adie Caday
with Mely Lee from 2009 to present.
Through the years, members have come
and gone but the spirit of solidarity and
camaraderie never left the group. New members
undergo basic seminar while the old ones attend
renewal seminars, which are required by the
Liturgical Commission.
Besides welcoming Mass goers and
visitors, G&C members also assist in seating the
congregation during Masses and other liturgical
functions, conduct collections and direct
offerors during the presentation of gifts, direct
the congregation during Communion and most
importantly, ensure the sanctity and security of
the host by assisting in checking for articles left
behind. They also check any litter in the pews
or on the floor and
with a strong sense of
maintain order during
community.
spiritual gatherings.
Like their fellow
G&C is usually busy
servants, G&C members
and visible during
are committed to Christ
the Chapel’s special
and His people. They
celebrations, activities
have a deep sense of their
and events.
role as instruments of the
During her
community by assisting in
term, Mely Lee says
their growth in the Spirit 1996 photo of Ministry of Collection & Order (former name of
the group adhered to
Greeters & Collectors Group) attending the Personality
of Jesus.
an open communication
Development Seminar.
A s “ f ro nt l i n e rs ”,
line between fellow
they always give their best, starting with a
Pastoral Council
smile and warm greeting, despite coming in
members and
tired from work, family obligations and other
among G&C
responsibilities outside the Chapel. Setting aside
members,
their personal concerns, they bear in mind and
which “bring
take into their hearts the importance of setting
knowledge
the proper liturgical atmosphere. How they
of what are
Recently retired chapel staff Connie Puno.
greet and welcome both new and longtime Mass
expected from
assisting during the collection
goers makes a big difference in preparing the
each of us”.
community for the liturgy.
G&C then proposed to the Pastoral
Since its formation in 1992, the group Council that the annual retreat for servants
has been lead by eight coordinators: Fe Gumba, be fully subsidized by the Chapel as one of its
Louie Reyes, Lyn Sandifer, Gloria Macaraeg with programs for the spiritual nourishment and
Cecile Sta. Ana as assistant coordinator, Mely Lee growth of servants. The Administration granted
with Rebecca Domingo in 2004, Miles Villanueva the request and servants continue to enjoy
the privilege to this day. G&C had 60 active
members then.
It was also during her time when Pondo
Ng Pinoy, a project of the Archdiocese of Manila,
was launched. G&C actively participated in it
and continues to attend its regular meetings
and activities. The project celebrated its 6th
anniversary on June 19, 2010.
Meanwhile, the call to serve outside
the confines of Greenbelt Chapel came. G&C
leaders attended meetings for usherettes and
collectors in the Archdiocese of Manila, which
led to the creation of the Archdiocesan Greeters
& Collectors with the chaplain, Fr. Jun Sescon, as
minister. That was five years ago and, todate,
they remain active in all the programs and
activities of the Archdiocese.
“It is the commitment to serve that makes
Servant-members in a recent shot.
us stay in this community. All for the glory of
God!,” says Mely.
Julie Gonzales considers the group as a
“ministry of hospitality”. She says members play
a key role in the living Body of Christ as they are
the first contact of the faithful upon entering the
church either to hear Mass or simply say a prayer.
“I believe that punctuality is the soul of
Greeters & Collectors. As Greeters, they come
to the Chapel early and position themselves in
their assigned aisles to meet and welcome the
community. As usherettes, they assist Mass
goers to their seats. And as collectors, they
are thankful and warm to the community. But
most important, we ensure the sanctity and
sacredness of the host during Communion,”
she says.
She also feels blessed to have had
members who were very cooperative, helpful,
punctual and dependable. She says they
were always there to extend help and support
whenever needed.
“I am happy that our members today
are almost the same people in the past years.
Yes, there are problems and concerns, issues
and trials, but they are part of servanthood. I
can proudly and humbly say that Greeters &
Collectors are truly called “the servants of God”,”
she says.
(G&C story initially written by Julie Gonzales
and Adie Caday)
Intercessory Prayer Group
Joy-filled service
The Intercessory Prayer Group (IPG)
traces its roots in the Contemplative Ministry,
which was organized when Greenbelt Chapel
opened its doors to volunteer-servants in the
latter part of 1991.
The objective of the Contemplative
Ministry was to raise the spirituality of the
individual and the community through prayers.
For the community, this was carried out by
leading the praying of the rosary and novenas
before every Mass. For the servants, this was
achieved through monthly bible reading and
study, annual formation and speech or technical
sessions.
Past coordinators
Quina Jamias, known to many as Tita
Quina, headed the ministry under the chaplaincy
of Fr. Anton CT. Pascual and up to the time of
Msgr. Mylo Hubert Vergara, who is now the
Bishop of San Jose, Nueva Ecija. Eyen Cajes
served for sometime as assistant coordinator
during Tita Quina’s term. She presently serves in
the Lectors and Commentators Group (LECCOM).
Joyce Lucas (nee de Leon) was appointed
coordinator by Msgr. Vergara in 2000 with Diana
Lozano as her assistant coordinator.
Among the challenges during her term
were training members in diction and keeping
prayers and reading of Mass intentions within
the required time. The praying of rosary
in Filipino before the Saturday noon Mass
continued during her time.
When Joyce Lucas (nee de Leon) tendered
a leave of absence in 2002 as Contemplative
Ministry head and acting Pastoral Council
secretary, Diana took over as coordinator of IPG.
Members of IPG in their outreach activity.
When Diana went abroad, Joyce
Concepcion headed the group. Her focus then
was inviting more servants to serve in the
ministry and foster a closer relationship among
them.
In July 2003, Judit Mangahis became
head of the ministry when it was renamed the
Intercessory Prayer Group/Liturgical Support
Group. She had two assistant coordinators:
Weng Palma for the intercessory prayer group
and Honey Calinog for liturgical support. The task
of liturgical support was to flash the acetates of
prayers, songs, responses or visual aid during
Mass or community talks. Honey was succeeded
by Dalia Martinez with Winnie Fajardo as the
assistant.
Highlighting their term, which they
consider to be turning points in the history of
IPG, are the daily prayer guide in individual
folders and recruitment of the first male member
who is now a seminarian. The guide was later
published by the Chapel as a prayer book entitled
My Daily Companion, which contains the prayers
and novenas for the day. They also say that IPG
was the most “workaholic among the service
groups and has the most number of activities.”
Mary Rose Blancaflor or Marose led the
group that is now simply called the Intercessory
Prayer Group from 2005 to 2006 with Dhes
Aguado as her assistant coordinator. Weng,
Marose and Dhes were also concurrent members
of the Information group in 2007.
I n 2 0 0 7 , D h e s b e ca m e
coordinator with Malu Antes as
a s s i s t a n t c o o rd i n a t o r. T h e i r
leadership was hands-on. Dhes
was always there when a member
needed her help, while Malu was
ever-supportive in praying for
members and activities of the group.
During the Jubilee Year in
2008, Noemi Bayawa was privileged
to lead the group with Janeth Molina
as her assistant coordinator. Noemi
led the group for another year with
Lenis Cadoy as assistant coordinator.
They worked hand-in-hand in playing
good role models to their members. With all the
feasts and solemnities celebrated that year, they
saw to it that every member played an important
role in every celebration.
In 2009, the group started converting all
prayers, songs and responses into Powerpoint
presentation files as these are now projected
using computers and no longer acetates, which
made the job easier but highly technical.
This year, Lenis Cadoy was given the
privilege to lead the group with Jhaye Tuballes
as her assistant coordinator. Taking on the same
objectives as their predecessors, their main
concern is to recruit more dedicated members
and bring more Mass goers closer to Jesus by
sustaining their fidelity to service, the ministry
and, most of all, Christ and building closer
relationship among members.
The group has also donated the image of
the Immaculate Heart of Mary to the Chapel as
its legacy for the “Year of Two Hearts”.
Reflections
Serving in IPG brought its leaders, both
past and present, closer to God. Eyen said that
she learned to be patient, more understanding
At a Christmas party.
of the shortcomings of others and pray for
the needs of others first before her personal
concerns.
Continued on next page...
For Malu, serving in IPG creates within us
“an inner space that allows us to make room for
God’s vibrant presence―a presence that is rich,
alive, simple, yet very full”.
Honey shares that her service in IPG
“brought me to deeper service, that is, to
minister The Word.” Judit says that “little by
little, it improved the quality of my prayer life,
my personal relationship with the Lord...” Weng
admits she “became more loving, patient, openminded and understanding”.
Judit however suggests holding a retreat
exclusively for IPG members. She says past
experience shows that it greatly enhanced the
relationship among members, which cannot be
achieved by mere fellowships.
As for Noemi, she says, “I learned to
be more patient. Though I aim for excellence
in service because our God deserves nothing
less, I learned to temper this with patience as I
encouraged members to serve during the Holy
Hour or attend monthly meetings and OGFs
for these avenues help us grow in holiness and
service.
I believe God shaped me further through
my service.
During those
years, I was
able to finetune my
prayer time
with Him,
grow in
virtues, and
truly strive
to be holy
―a difficult
Servant-members putting up the San Lorenzo
objective but
exhibit at the center bridge.
by God’s grace,
it is something we can all achieve for “Everything
good started with Him, and finds it purpose in
Him” ( Colossians 1:16). It is not about me or us,
but it is always about God. Thus, we continue to
serve Him humbly and joyfully.”
For Lenis, “serving God is the most
difficult but joyous way of fulfilling our tasks as
man and child of God”.
“I also learned to be more patient and
open to all constructive criticism. It makes me
more humble and stronger in faith. I believe
fidelity to Christ means there is so much to give
up. It may also hurt much but in the end you
will realize that at the end of the road, Jesus
will always be there waiting for you and never
leave you.”
Bible passage reflections and hymns in between
decades while the Blessed Sacrament was
exposed for veneration. The Holy Mass then
began at exactly twelve midnight and, as a
devotion to Mary, ended well into the first hour
of the First Saturday.
IPG also started what is now a Lenten
tradition: the 14 Stations of the Cross within the
Chapel grounds. To make the devotion more
heartrending, there used to be a huge cross
that was carried in the shoulder and passed on
to the devotees from station to station. There
was also a time when living rosaries were recited
with each bead represented by a devotee with
a lighted candle.
Truly, IPG never wavered in their task
to lead and bring the community of Greenbelt
Chapel closer to Jesus through various Marian
devotions and prayers to the saint for the day.
Members continue to increase as IPG has
fostered its own brand of camaraderie through
the “buddy” system in members’ rotation
Para-liturgical prayers
Since its formation up to the present, the
Intercessory Prayer Group’s head coordinators
and their respective assistants have consistently
fulfilled their most important function of
leading the community in various para-liturgical
prayers at least within the half-hour before
the Eucharistic celebrations. They have very
diligently put together all the daily devotional
prayers into one compendium for easy reference.
The task of reading Mass intentions is also part
of their tasks.
During the months of May and October,
when Marian devotions take place, IPG organizes
floral offerings and
helps prepare for
the visits of Marian
images and saints to
the Chapel.
It was during
Fr. Anton’s time when
the perseverance of
members was put to
the test as the First
Friday/First Saturday
Marian devotions
l a s t e d fo r t h r e e
hours. It started at
nine in the evening
of the first Friday with
the recitation of the
fifteen Mysteries of
the Rosary, complete
with visual aid of
Servants Honey Calinog and Ching Roman
leading the praying of the Holy Rosary.
schedule. They witness to their own spiritual
transformation, boldly claiming that their
prayer lives have improved and their personal
relationship with Lord have deepened.
(IPG story initially composed by Noemi Bayawa
and updated by Lenis Cadoy.)
Liturgical Environment Group
members to renew their pledge of commitment
while maintaining its current members. Although
they succeeded in getting the commitment
of inactive servants, adjustments on service
schedule were made based on their availability
The Liturgical Environment Group (LEG), meant as she got out of her comfort zone and at that time.
When the group took charge of the Feast
a service group under the Worship Ministry, made the sacrifice of serving during the 7:15 AM
of
the
Sacred
Heart, the use of its Chaplet was
assists in creating an ideal worship atmosphere Mass everyday despite her very challenging job
introduced
to
the
community in lieu of the rosary
in the Chapel.
and work schedule which usually ended at ten
during its novena and feast day, which was
They work behind the scenes, preparing o’clock in the evening.
and maintaining paraphernalia and vestments
“It was a venue for growth and eventually implemented during Fridays as well.
The group’s proposal to offer gifts for sick
needed in liturgical celebrations and coordinating transformation. I thought it made me a better
servants
of the Chapel during the Fourth Sunday
liturgical rites and norms of the Chapel with person,” says Tita Angie.
priest-celebrant and service groups.
Four new members joined them: Malou of Advent was also enhanced. It became a love
Established in 1991 during the chaplaincy Verayin, Fely Hervas, Viel Macabidang and offering for sick servants during the monthly
of Fr. Anton Pascual, originally called the Josephine Lopez. The tasks of LEM were ably formation talks for servants.
“Inspite of the difficulty
Liturgical Environment
in
handling
the group by
Ministry (LEM), initially
myself,”
says
Jo,
“I realize that
had nine members who
God’s grace abounds. He gave
responded to the call of
the group committed servants
devoting their time, talent
who are always ready to give
and treasure under LEM.
their service to the Lord. Seeing
I n 1 9 9 1 , Lyd i a
and working with them, my
Vergara was appointed its
commitment was strengthened
first coordinator with Ma.
and I became more selfless as I
Jacinta “Baby” Elecanal as
offer my giftedness to the Him.”
her assistant coordinator.
In 2007, Viel became
During the time of Tita Lydge
the
coordinator
of the group.
and Ate Baby, as they are
To assist Diocesan priests who
fondly called, the group
needed help, the Love Offering
did not only perform the
for Sick and Retired Priests
aforementioned tasks,
Project was introduced to the
but also maintained the
community during her term.
bulletin boards by posting
The response of the
information on liturgical
community
was overwhelming
celebrations, chapel services
because eight gifts were given
and announcements.
for each priest. This project
The bulletin boards
was conceptualized as a way of
in front of the sacristy
thanking our dear priests during
carried the service schedule
the Year for Priests.
and announcements of
After Viel’s term ended
different ministries and
last
year,
Jo took over as
service groups. Manning of
coordinator with Ditas Camacho
the overhead projectors and
as assistant coordinator. Jo
maintenance of the library
admits the task seems difficult
of songs and prayers were
but the reward is great to those
also assigned to the group.
who believe in Him.
Members with Fr. Jun (clockwise) Baby Elecanal, Norma Jaymalin, Ditas Camacho, Angie Dy, Jo Lopez and Viel Macabidang.
It was then that
To date, the group has
choirs were asked to submit
every Thursday the acetates of their songs carried out by Tita Angie and Ate Baby until 2003 five active and dedicated members who have
learned to love their work, co-servants and other
for Sunday masses, implementing the no under the chaplaincy of Fr. Prex Fajardo.
acetate–no song policy. The group was actively
In 2003, when the name of the group members of the community in the service of
involved in the planning and coordination of was changed to Liturgical Environment Group the Lord. Each member had also developed the
different liturgical celebrations as they work (LEG), Fely Hervas became the coordinator of sensitivity to the needs of the people they are
hand-in-hand with the Chapel’s consultant who the group with Viel Macabidang as assistant assisting and their co-members.
With the chapel’s formation for servants,
spearheaded the planning of all major activities coordinator. During their term, the special focus
and introduced creative liturgy in the Chapel.
of LEG was the maintenance and beautification the group reached a certain level of spiritual
maturity of which each member is thankful
In 2000, when Msgr. Mylo Vergara took of the sanctuary.
over the chaplaincy, he appointed Angie Dy
When Tita Fely became ill, Ate Viel lead for. Technical formation equipped the group in
as coordinator and Baby Elecanal as assistant the group until 2005, when Fr. Rufino Sescon, performing the tasks at hand.
Indeed, the Chapel is not only a place
coordinator. It was a challenging task, according Jr., known to many as Fr. Jun, succeeded Fr. Prex
of
service
for those who seek to share their
to Tita Angie, because only a few members had to as chaplain. That year, Josephine Lopez was
gifts.
It
is
also
a place of transformation, where
man four Masses during weekdays, three Masses appointed coordinator.
on Saturdays and eight Masses on Sundays.
Under Jo’s term, with the pressing need individuals, united in prayer, become a family
But the experience made Tita Angie for more LEG members to assist in all Chapel despite their differences.
Commitment in Service
appreciate what “to enter the narrow door”
celebrations, the group agreed to entice inactive
(LEG story written by Josephine Lopez)
Service Groups
Education Ministry
Baby Javier assisted
by Annie Cruz, headed the
Education Ministry from 1993
to 1998. During their time,
they started the Wednesday
Talk evangelization program
for the community, including
the Advent and Lent
Recollection series. They
had an extensive directory
of bishops, priests, formators
and lay leaders whom they
9invited as speakers.
During the Pastoral
Council planning session late
2001, Fr. Prex Fajardo invited
Chona and me. We were
elated to be guests until he
announced the re-activation of the dormant
Education Ministry. We had no idea of his
intention to give the headship to the two of us
on a silver platter. Before we could react, the
Information Ministry was also re-activated and
placed under the Education Ministry. Looking
at each other from across the conference table,
Chona and I agreed to accept the assignments
that took effect immediately on the condition
that we would act as heads and assistant to each
This ministry continued the pilgrimage
program that are open to the Massgoers and
community-at-large. At least six months before
the Lent Season, they already scout around
for the venue, clock the travel time, book the
pilgrimage chaplain and the caterer.
The Lenten retreat is another activity
that the community always looked forward to.
The servant-leaders of this ministry takes one
year advance planning of topic, retreat masters
and venue.
This ministry also handles the monthly
on-going formation for servants. Topics for
discussion by the chaplain and/or speakers are
planned way ahead.
The previous heads were Nizza Abello
and Weng Palma followed by Nizza and Marivic
Horlador to the present.
Rowena Palma
Formation Coordinator, 2008-2009
At this point in my life, I found the greatest
pleasure in doing things for the Lord through this
community. Having dedicated fellow servants
and friends in the group has given me much
enthusiasm and joy to serve more. I am inspired
and energized to work harder and the tasks has
become easier and lighter.
The pleasures of meeting new people
in retreats and pilgrimages; inviting speakers
other, therefore, partners. From then on, we
called each other as Partner Chona and Partner
Chato – for Educ, for Info, for life.
We later on invited Ate Alice (Martinez)
to revive the tri-cord but she humbly declined
to be our assistant. Nonetheless, Partner Chona
rightfully described her as the wind beneath our
wings. Then, other servants joined our ministries
who afterwards moved on as servant leaders.
We continued some of the programs of Baby
and Annie, planned topics,
speakers and venues at
least six months in advance.
In 2003, we handled
t h e Pa s t o ra l C o u n c i l
planning session. We gave
them a different kind of
experience that balanced
work, play, spirituality and
camaraderie.
Our term was
extended until July 2004
and Angie Dy took over
f ro m u s . U n d e r h e r
leadership, the Education
Ministry was re-structured
to separate the functions
that Partner Chona and I
managed by ourselves. This gave birth to the
Formation Group, among others. Gie Liwanag
became the next ministry head until 2006. Under
her leadership, Gie reduced the sub-groups to
Formation and Information. Formation took
care of the retreats, pilgrimages and Wednesday
Talks. Toots Policarpio was appointed until 2008
and Angie Padilla from 2008 to the present. Both
Toots and Angie retained the two service groups
set-up. Introductions by Chato T. Zabarte.
Formation Group
Shaping hearts and souls
for formation programs;
creating beautiful souvenirs
and program materials;
e nte r ta i n i n g i n q u i r i e s ;
sleeping late and waking up
early; and discovering new
talents within have become
a way of life.
I have realized that
while we are instruments
o f fo r m i ng peopl e, we
are also formed – doubly!
Emotionally, psychologically
and spiritually. Proof of this
is I have learned to mend
when I become complacent
and lose control.
The challenge to be
consistent with my actions, behavior and
relationship with my group and community is
something I consider a big test!
One of the biggest challenges I have
encountered was the Lenten Pilgrimage to 7
Churches in Quezon Province last February.
The usual two buses of pilgrims became three.
Inspired by our motto “If it is Greenbelt, it
must be good!” Filled with the Holy Spirit, the
preparation went well. Hard work and prayers
paid off.
Probably, the saddest yet most love-filled
retreat was the one with Fr. Bob McConaghy as
the retreat master. “The Times of your Life” was
repeated twice in a row, meaning four retreats in
Continued on next page...
Continued...Shaping
two years due to public demand. The
response was encouraging.
As coordinator, the challenge for me was
to keep the standards of the group. We have to
ensure that the plans and programs are relevant
and formative and to strengthen and deepen
the relationships among old and new members.
Meanwhile, I promise to dedicate my time
as long as I am able and needed by the group.
Angie Dy
Head, Education Ministry, 2004-2005
Quezon. The “Pondo ng
Pinoy” was launched,
animating the theme
song every month in all
Masses to educate the
Mass-goers.
Noteworthy
to share is that until
now, many servants say
that the best retreat
they have had thus far
was that given by Sis
Letty Garcia, DC, on
“Personhood”. They
express their desire to
have another one of
Abello (second from left), presently Formation Group coordinator, with facilitators of the servants’
the same kind. In this Nizza
retreat in Tagaytay City in 2005.
retreat, she has impressed
Wednesday. Fortunately, Fr. Jun agreed and
on us the importance of relating with each other, instructed to give Social Teachings of the Catholic
core to core, heart to heart.
Church whole year through. My concerns were:
With good relationship among the some of the topics may not be that interesting,
servant leaders, we can, and we actually have, frequency (weekly talk), and where to get
accomplished all our plans and program in the resource persons.
Ministry with joy.
For a time, inviting speakers was difficult.
The first
c h a l l e n ge t h at I
consider was the
institutionalizing
of the Ministry ’s
three sub-groups,
n a m e l y, t h e
Formation Group,
t h e I n fo r m a t i o n
Group and the
Special Projects.
Virgie Liwanag
Education was not
Coordinator, FormationGroup 2004-2005
Education Ministry
only the newsletter. Former
Head Angie Dy
Head, Education Ministry 2006-2007
The greater challenge
was the centralization of the annual retreat for
I became a member of the Education
all service groups so that all the servants would
Ministry when Angie Dy was the Ministry
listen to one speaker and on one topic and have
Head. It became my
a common experience of praying and meditating
second service group,
together and thus be able to understand each
LECCOM being my first.
other well because of the leveling off of minds
I was tasked to handle
and hearts. Prior to this, each service group was
the Formation Group.
responsible for their annual retreat with different
The big challenge was
inputs and retreat masters. The greatest
I should first be formed
challenge of all was to convince the Chapel
before I try to form
Administration to my proposal that the servants’
others. This made my
expenses should be covered in full instead of
relationship with God
the summer outing. This was in keeping with
closer and deeper as
the vision of the Chapel’s spiritual upliftment of
I depended on Him in
the working people of Makati, which includes
Former Formation coordinator carrying out my duties.
the servants.
and Education Ministry head
I was appointed
Gie Liwanag.
During our term, there were so many
to head the Education
activities that were introduced for the first time.
Ministry in 2006. The greatest challenge was
For one, I, with the commendable support of
when recommended to hold off the Bible
the coordinators of the other service groups
Teaching Series (Bible Study) being held every
during this period, especially
our then Chaplain, Fr. Prex
Fajardo, who also labored
with us, spearheaded the
formulation and deliberation
of the Pastoral Manual for
Servants. Patience and
perseverance work. I have
become a more patient
person. We were also
able to organize several
pilgrimages in one year: to
the Shrine of Our Lady of
the Miraculous Medal, to
the Shrine of the Sacred
Heart of Jesus and Heritage
Tour and Lenten Pilgrimage
to 7 Churches in Laguna and
Servants and community participants of a Lenten Retreat in 1993 in Novaliches.
And so there was slight shift in the topic. In
the next few month, we started on the Social
Teachings topics. Our speakers - both priests
and lay people - were able to deliver as expected.
The downside of this program was the number of
attendees. No matter how good they may have
Facilitators of the March 14, 2009 pilgrimage in Pampanga
been
or how interesting the topics may be, the
community attendance was quite disheartening.
We were told that it would have been better
to retain the Bible Study or invite speakers
who were known to be crowd drawer. But we
stick to our concept. I believe that in order
to grow in our faith, we should be open and
sensitive to the leading and promptings of the
Spirit. Personalities and attendance are not the
measurements of an activity to be successful.
The fact that we had speakers and Mass-goers
attended our formation talks, it was a sign that
God was at work in us.
I am happy to say that in my own small
way, I had contributed a lot for the community.
First, additional members were added. Second,
we gave, and continuously doing so, Basic
Formation to new members on a different level.
Third, we suggested – and fellow coordinators
conformed – to have an attendance for members
in our activities such as, On-Going Formations,
retreats, fellowships and the like. This way we
Information Group
Evangelizing through communications
The only tri-cord of Greenbelt Chapel Cecille and Dimsy
servants was composed of the late Salve Orallo, w e r e e x t e n d e d
Chona Salvaña and myself simply because we by Fr. Jun Sescon
often huddled about the newsletter. Chona with the inclusion
was with Evelyn del Rosario who was the first o f M a r y R o s e
head of Information Ministry. Salve had her Blancaflor. After
own printing press and I was the Pastoral being a protégé, Fr.
Coordinator. When Fr. Anton Pascual revived Jun discerned that
the Info Ministry, the Newslette was added to Dimsy was ready to
take the helm of the
my list of responsibilities.
During the term of Evelyn, Ric Castillo ministry from 2009
was the editor-in-chief of then Sto. Niño de to t h e p res ent.
Paz Chapel Newslette. I took over in 1996 Edwin Galvez was
for a year. When I resigned from the Chapel appointed his assistant and concurrent editorin 1997, Marichie Nabong was appointed as in-chief and Mary Rose was retained to take care
of the website.
head of Information
It was during
and Communication
the term of Partner
Ministry and their last
Chona and Shawie
issue of the Newslette
that the Newslette
was April 2000. The
underwent a major
Information Ministry
facelift to become
became inactive
the present
afterwards during
Greenleaf for the
the term of Norma
busy soul.
Jaymalin, who took
T
h
e
my place as Pastoral
Information
Coordinator.
Ministry has always
At
this
been a powerhouse
time, I was already
of talents and
working at New
different levels of
World Renaissance
inspiration that the
Hotel, a mere stone’s
Massgoers read
throw away from the Servant-members at the first coordination meeting on Greenleaf anniversary
Chapel. I continued issue (from left) Chato, Cecile, Chona, coordinator Dimsy, assistant coordinator about. We always
Mary Rose, Carmela and assistant coordinator Edwin.
take pleasure to
going to Mass in spite
of my tight schedule at work. It was also during receive feedback and article contributions.
this time that there were no issues of the We always strive hard that the next issue is
Newslette. Atty. Nordy Diploma, the Chapel an improvement of the last. With every word
Administrator, occasionally sought me to work printed, we share the Word of God and some
during my off hours to publish several issues true-to-life experiences on how going to Mass
of the newsletter. Since Partner Chona began at Greenbelt Chapel has changed people’s lives.
going to the Chapel again and I would often pin
her down to proofread the issues for me. Fr. Peps Fernandez
Prex, out of good Coordinator, 2004-2005
intentions
In retrospect, the experience of being a
to rev i ve t h e
N e w s l e t t e , servant through the Information Group served
invited the two as a concrete outlet for all of us in the group
of us to the next to “live” our budding faith in God and in the
planning session community we were serving. Consequently,
of the Pastoral there were a number of lessons learned from
the experience, to wit.
Council.
Patience to work up to midnight every
After the
The Emmanuel News staffers of then Ministry of
Information in a June 1993 photo.
phenomenon of day, including weekends, to write, edit, format
our partnership and design the periodic newsletter.
Persistence to run after personalities
which included the launch of our website, Pep
Fernandez headed the Information Ministry with scheduled for interviews because they were to
Ate Alice as assistant under Angie Dy. Partner be the subjects of featured articles.
Creativity to come up with a central
Chona and Shawie took over for a year followed
by Cecille Sta. Ana, Dimsy Lucas and JV Torres. theme for each edition of the newsletter that
was relevant to social issues of the time, aside
from the given liturgical season.
Ebullience to write faith-filled articles
based on a limited experience in faith through
the power of prayer. I have never prayed as hard
in my life before.
Calmness to accept that which is
beyond our control, such as timetables, chapel
guidelines, suggestions from the community,
non-availability of interviewees, etc.
Wisdom to balance patience, persistence,
creativity, ebullience, and calmness to maintain
our sanity.
The stint at the Information Group also
served as a hands-on training to look outwardly
because we had to write articles based not on
our journalistic leanings and agenda, but to write
that which would serve the spiritual and social
needs of the community. It was, indeed, a lesson
on humility. This aspect of our servanthood
concretized our belief that without God, we
could do nothing. For every occasion to sit in
front of the computer to write our articles, we
relied strongly on prayer to the Holy Spirit to
guide our fingers on what word to type on the
keyboard, so that every word we typed was the
Some members of the group with Education Ministry head Angie Padilla
(front row, leftmost) and Fr. Jun.
leading of the Spirit and that the eventual article
become the Word of God.
In performing our communication
functions, we opened ourselves to constant
Continued on next page...
The group in one of their meetings with Dennis del Rosario, administrative assistant (third from left, standing).
purpose on why we were in the
Information Group--- To serve for the Glory
of God and for the good of our fellowmen.
This, in effect, sustained us to continually look
outwardly. For every issue of the newsletter, we
dispensed with bylines and editorial boxes to
keep us focused on our service mission. Thus,
we were more of communication instruments by
God as he spoke to his people in the Greenbelt
community. Believe me it was not easy, especially
so for staff members who were members of
the elite Makati corporate jungle. Besides, we
functioned behind the scene and this could be
used by the devil as a disincentive to serve God,
as when the devil enticed Jesus with worldly
power in the temptation of Jesus at the desert.
Nevertheless, being in the Information
Group was not at all work. There were fun
moments and mind you, really fun and funny.
Funny as when the newsletter comes off the
press and we find unedited vocabulary mistakes
that led to fellow servants making us the talk
of the town, so to speak, with all the banters
to boot. Fun as to trying to figure out what
happened during the layout and editing stages.
Still, serving God through the Greenbelt
community is like a dessert. It is either you like
it and keep on having additional servings, or
you find it frustrating and yet the frustrations
somehow make you laugh as you look back.
Have a nice day.
Alice Martinez
Co-Coordinator, 2003
Education Ministry-Information Group
Asst. Coordinator Info Group, 2004-2005
The Education Ministry-Information
Group that I came to know was a mere Chato
Zabarte-Chona Salvaña partnership; and, while
I was already a Greeters and Collectors Group
member, and as I helped in the chapel’s office
work, I was led to assisting this tandem in their
projects and activities, such as monitoring the
number of retreat participants, and preparing
souvenir stampitas.
The then chaplain, Fr. Prex Fajardo,
appointed me co-coordinator of the Education
Ministry-Information Group. As such, I got more
immersed in its endeavors, including scouting for
alternative retreat houses in Tagaytay, with the
two coordinators and no less than the chaplain
himself. I also contributed articles for the
Greenleaf newsletter; participated in preparing
the line-up, and invitation of retreat masters
and speakers for servants’ and the Mass-goers’
formation talks; and facilitated in retreats – these
provided me the opportunity to inter-act with
both the community and the servants, however
much effort is entailed. I remember a time when
Chona had to facilitate at a servants’ seminar in
Makati, while I facilitated at a retreat of another
group of servants in Tagaytay.
As the community and the servants grew,
so did the ministry, and it was time to train new
members to equate to the developing demands
and interests of the Greenbelt Chapel populace.
Ma. Chona P. Salvaña
Co-Head, 2001-2004
Educ Ministry-Information Group
Info Group Coordinator, 2005-2006
First Love
Ministry. Writing is my first
love. Thus, I consider my first
ministry as my first love. Being
the youngest in our ministry,
big and major events were
not assigned to me but not for
long though. When my news
article landed on the front
page of Emmanuel (former
name of Greenleaf), I was so
happy and so were my fellow
ministry servants.
Along the way, I learned
a lot from my elders, especially
from Evelyn del Rosario, the
first Information Ministry
Head. I realized later that she
was training and teaching me
subtly. She would send me as the ministry’s
representative to Pastoral Council meetings
until the then chaplain, Fr. Anton Pascual, got
used to my presence and would asked for me
whenever info-related tasks were needed.
Tita Eve, as she is fondly called, would tag me
along in the yearly Pastoral Planning Session of
servant-leaders.
Spiritual matters were less of my
Members of today’s Information Group in a production number at
last year’s anniversary celebration of the Chapel.
concern that time, having parents who taught
me Christian values early in life and attending
Catholic private schools. I have learned to deal
and relate with my fellow servants who have
different personalities and backgrounds. It was
entirely different from corporate world wherein
gaining people’s trust and confidence in your
company is the name of the game whereas
in the chapel, you are leading the community
towards God. A servant would never know
when he inspires the
community to serve
as well. He has to be
a servant through and
through which means
his service does not end
inside the chapel.
Looking back at how I started as a
servant, I say it was destiny. Thinking how
far I have gone, I say it’s God’s will. Honestly,
until now, I don’t know why I’m still here in the
chapel serving. Ask a servant the reason for
serving and one would say, “As a thanksgiving
to the Lord”. In my case, I believe it’s more than
that.
Perhaps just like the other servants, I
was regular massgoer
when it was announced
that
the
chapel
needed volunteers. I
didn’t
immediately
respond. I prayed for it.
Subconsciously perhaps
I knew that a new
Blessings
chapter in my life was
Non-Greenbelt Chapel
unfolding. Funny but I
friends and colleagues,
even asked for signs.
upon knowing that I am
I signed up for Then Ministry of Information in their Comprehensive Planning
servant, ask for spiritual
the ministry wherein my Session at Villa Cristina in Tagaytay City on February 3, 1996.
assistance.
From a
abilities would be most
useful – the Information
Continued on next page...
tiring but most fruitful planning session that the
chapel ever had. It’s not all work, discussion,
and brainstorming but it was team-building as
well. Servant-leaders discovered more about
themselves and others.
“Can we talk, Bunso?” a former chaplain
asked me one morning. Deep in my heart,
I knew something was coming. Everything
had an end but the relationship that you built
over the years remain. It became stronger.
When our ministry-group hit bottom line, we
had each other to lean and depend on. Close
friends rallied behind us. Unexpectedly, one
fellow servant was even willing to fight for
us and never left me. Partner Chato had to
sacrifice long travel from Batangas to attend to
emergency meetings of our ministry-group here
in Makati. We would just embrace each other
for no words could describe how we felt. Ate
Alice would always check on me after parting
ways after long talks. She knew it was not safe
for me to go home alone crying and sad.
But it’s time to let go. I learned humility,
acceptance, and friendship in that experience.
On Second Chances
consider as opportunities to be of service
to others. For I myself have been blessed.
After about a year of being inactive due
to office work, I came back. The chapel was in
crisis that time. The remaining servants served
double or triple ministry during the Mass. It
was a painful experience to all involved. I had
my fair share of hurtful moments. We stormed
heaven with prayers for an end to a dark time in
the history of chapel. We needed forgiveness
and reconciliation.
November 2001. Chato Zabarte, former
Pastoral Council Coordinator, and I were asked
to join the Pastoral Council Planning Session for
Year 2002. We thought it was simply like that –
to contribute whatever we can to the plans and
programs of the chapel. But we were surprised
when we were appointed – right there and
then by the then chaplain Fr. Prex Fajardo - as
Education Ministry-Information Group heads.
Where other servant-leaders had prepared for
presentation, we had none. So we just listened
and took notes. We had tons of works to do!
That day onwards, we’re inseparable. Since
each didn’t want to be the head but preferred
to be the assistant only, it was Chato’s idea that
we call each other “partner”. True to its word,
we became partners in all endeavors. Without
talking about it, we divided the responsibilities
among the two of us, as if reading the other’s
mind and knowing already what to work on. It
was a give and take relationship. We valued
each other’s opinion. We became each other’s
extended family member.
I don’t know how our ministry grew in
terms of membership and responsibilities but
it simply happened. It was during our time
when the chapel had its website. Prior to that,
our request for computer and videocam were
granted by the Administrator and chaplain.
We were pleasantly surprised when two of our
members were appointed to be Coordinator
of other service groups. Was the Education
Ministry-Information Group a good training
ground for Coordinator/Asst. Coordinator?
Later part of our term, Alice Martinez
joined us as our assistant, a very efficient one at
that. She’s not new to our work for while still a
member of another service group and a regular
help in the chapel office, she would see how I
worked. From the office, I would serve in the
Mass, after which, would attend to my tasks as
Education Ministry-Information Group co-head.
Perhaps taking pity on me, I once arrived in the
chapel office and surprised to find her working
on a list of retreat participants. I was grateful
for her assistance. Together, we handled Lent
Retreats for the community, Lent and Advent
Recollections (including invitations to speakers
– six bishops in a year!), servants’ retreats and
formations throughout the year, and other
spiritual development and nourishment of the
community and servants. Chato was beginning
to settle with her family in Batangas, hence, we
saw each other less but we’re burning lines for
constant communication. Without needing to
discuss further with her, Alice knew what to do
in my absence. I learned the deeper meaning of
respect. I learned that sharing responsibilities
is less burdensome and more joyful. Service
became meaningful and wonderful when
you’re close to the chaplain and have easy
access to the Administration.
Partner Chato was the backbone of the
Education Ministry-Information Group while
Ate Alice was the wind beneath it.
On Letting Go
October 2003. We handled the Pastoral
Council Planning Session for Year 2004. It was
September 10, 2005, Fr. Jun
Sescon appointed me as Information Group
Coordinator. I didn’t know why. When he
assumed chaplaincy, I was the Pastoral Council
secretary. Surely he didn’t know of my previous
designation and responsibilities. But I was told
Christmas party in 1992 at Ric Castillo’s residence.
that he asked around about possible servantleaders.
I thought of the appointment as
second chance of serving in a different level.
Though the group’s role and functions have
not changed, people and time have. Different
method had to be made.
Sharon Jacqueline Dionisio, one of the
“Tres Marias” of web sub-team when I was
co-head of Education Ministry-Information
Group, was appointed as Asst. Coordinator in
October 3. We formed friendship with fellow
Coordinators and Asst. Coordinators during
our Pastoral Planning Session for Year 2006.
It was the beginning of a working relationship
Continued on next page...
that goes beyond the confines of the chapel.
We were overwhelmed by our assignments
after the said session but we focused on our
work. We had three things to submit to Fr. Jun
before the year 2005 ended. We prioritized the
things to be done. We invited new members
to join our group while motivated old ones of
new tasks ahead. By God’s grace, we were able
to submit all the things that the chaplain had
asked for – in time! We were even commended
during one Pastoral Council Meeting.
I called Shawi “my katuwang” and our
groupmates “aming kasama”. Never “my
assistant” and “our members”. For I believed
in person-to-person approach than leader-
dispatched with prayers to the printer. I was
nervous and excited at the same time when it
was delivered to the chapel early afternoon of
May 6, 2006. It was launched May 8 during the
Servants’ Mass at seven in the evening.
It was one accomplishment that I was
truly proud of as a servant. It was bound to
happen.
Bound to happen also were the not so
good encounters and experiences. Not all the
time was bed of roses during my term. But I
trust God more this time. My katuwang and
I talked about our concerns. We never went
home without settling our issues. The happiness
and joys … I shared with my katuwang and
On Leaving and Living
Seeing that they were doing ok, I
have decided to leave the group and attend
to my personal well-being. I have had to
leave in order to live – this time as an ordinary
servant. Though I can’t recall being ordinary
… for from the beginning, I was already part
of the Council and chapel activities plans and
implementations.
I don’t know how long will I still serve.
Only God knows. Not all the questions have
answers. Some have but not the way I think
or like or want. As a former servant-leader, I
was not perfect. As an ordinary servant, I can
only do so much. The lessons learned along the
The chapel newsletter first came out as Emmanuel in 1992. Anniversary magazine covers show the milestone years culiminating in the Silver Jubilee issue.
member kind. I was amazed by my kasamahan. kasamahan. The pains and hurts … most of the
Professionally speaking, they held positions time I kept to myself. I have loved the group so
that were higher than me but when it came to much that it hurts. And once, I wanted to leave.
service, they were good followers. For that, I But it’s the same intensity of love that made me
was thankful. They didn’t complain that I sent stay and many times, defend the group.
text messages and emails at an unholy hour
for they knew it was only the time that I had On Bended Knees
to delegate obligations and assignments. And On my last day as Information Group
they delivered well!
Coordinator, I heard Mass. It was special for
One of the best challenges that we faced me. I prayed for acceptance and strength. I
was in making the group’s Pastoral Manual. We reminded myself that I had my chance already.
met regularly to be able to finish it. When it It was time for others’ turn. I prayed for
was approved by the chaplain, we were so incoming Coordinators and Asst. Coordinators
happy. Another big task that was given to us not only for our group but for other service
was the Pastoral Manual for Servants. So while group as well.
doing about our regular
At Candelaria
responsibilities – coming
Church in Iloilo
up with regular issue
City, I consecrated
of Greenleaf, handling
and lifted up the
(decorating)
bulletin
new leaders of
boards,
preparing
Information Group
Mass Announcements,
– Sis Cecile Sta. Ana
posting on website,
as Coordinator and
preparing tarpaulin and
Bro Dimsy Lucas
other promo materials
and Bro JV Torres as
of chapel activities
Asst. Coordinators.
and
other
service
I was afraid for
groups’ requirements,
them. Afraid that
covering chapel events/ Servant-members Cindy, Bienna Rose, Rina and Chona on July 1996
they
might not be
chapel anniversary celebration.
affairs/activities
and
able to handle the
other service groups’
pressures. Not because they were not capable
activities (retreats, technical formations, but I have sheltered them so much that when
fellowships), we had to lay out the said manual. on their own, they might gave up easily. I had
Patience, dedication, and commitment were to have confidence in them. That’s the only
our companions during those times. It was way I could give my support. And prayers.
way are important but most of all, the people
you met and mingled with. The support,
cooperation, care, and love given and received
are what truly make a servant a child of God.
Sharon Jacqueline Dionisio
Asst. Coordinator Oct 2005-Dec 2006
It was a time when I thought everything in
my life was being realigned. I was newly assigned
to be a team leader at work, and at the same
time, was appointed a position by the chaplain
in the Greenbelt Chapel’s Pastoral Council. I
had no idea what my responsibilities were. I did
not even know Ate Chona well, needless to say,
know how she works or thinks. Yet, I took the
challenge and thought, “Hey, para maiba naman
at di puro kanta, Greenleaf naman.” Yes, from
being a choir member, I shifted to being in charge
of the web, then became part of the Greenleaf
team, and became the assistant coordinator of
the Information Group.
Being part of Greenbelt Chapel’s Pastoral
Council was a new experience. It was fun despite
the conflicts during meetings... well, that’s a
given anyway. I learned how events, activities,
and affairs happen and the preparations entailed
with it, I saw what improvements each ministry
and service should make. I learned how Fr. Jun
managed the varying opinions of the group and
how he shed enlightenment and direction in
executing our obligations in the chapel. I realized
that each and everyone in the council shared the
same ideals, however different in our approach
in putting these ideals to action. I discovered
Continued on next page...
friendship during our planning session. I
carefully picked and edited articles. We did
felt the support and unified effort of the council
not just layout simple text. It was an enriching
members. It was a dynamic year for all of us.
and growing experience in faith, for we got to
Many things have transpired during
take a glimpse of the hearts of the contributors. my term as Assistant
Our graphic artist also
C o o rd i n a t o r o f t h e
devoted his time in
Information Group. We
coming out with a
were able to release our
front cover in each
group manual, wherein
release, that not only
late nights were put in to
conveys the liturgical
complete and formulate
season’s theme, but
the procedures and
also imparts the
guidelines for the
intentions of our
group. But, beating the
group. We focused
deadline to release the
much effort in making
Greenleaf every season
each release a lifeServant-members (from left) Rina, Bienna Rose, Butsch, Chona and
is my most treasured Jeanny.
changing experience
memory! In those late
for the reader.
nights at Starbucks Glorietta 1 (yes, the one that
A te st o f h u m i l i t y, e n d u ra n c e ,
got bombed), are fond memories of cramming,
commitment, patience, and compassion... a
taste of challenge, fun, stress, and creativity...
sleeping, and editing pains. However, despite
these, I also learned so many things. a sense of fulfillment, joy, and laughter... a
The Greenleaf had a deeper meaning. It
discovery of friendship and teamwork... these
was not just a news and information publication,
are all the things I gained from being the assistant
but a journal of a person’s journey in life. We,
coordinator of the Information group in year
the Information Group had a vision of combining
2005-2006.
spirituality, creativity, and personal experience
It is not the technicalities of being in the
in each of the issue that we released. We had
position that really made an impact in my life, nor
that passion to go beyond than just being a
the popularity and privilege that came with it. newsletter. We had our hearts set to inspire
Rather, it is the insights and realizations I gained
people and encourage them through our
that molded me to become a better person
that matter. These make being an assistant
coordinator worthwhile.
Cecile V. Sta. Ana
Coordinator, Jan 2007-Dec 2008
The call to lead the Information Group
in December 2006 was answered by yours truly
with Dimsy V. Lucas and Mary Rose Q. Blancaflor
as Asst. Coordinators. The group is one the
service groups under the EDUCATION Ministry.
Those years were filled with blessings
and trials. Blessings for I was given the
opportunity to serve more than what I have
and can give to Greenbelt Chapel community.
As member of the Pastoral Council, I was part
of the conceptualization and implementation
of the various activities of the chapel. With a
handful but committed and dedicated assistants
and members, our group did fairly well in
delivering services to other service groups and
the community. Our term was highlighted with
the honor and privilege of being part of the
Silver Jubilee celebration of the chapel in 2008.
Just like in any community, our leadership
was not spared from problems and intrigues,
both from internal and external factors, but I,
together with my assistants, put our trust in
God. Our members did their best.
We had served, and continue serving, for
the glory of God.
Emmanuel and Greenbelt Healing Ministry
Evangelizing and healing in Makati
The first healing Masses last year for
the late President Corazon Aquino placed the
spotlight on Greenbelt Chapel, yet the public
is generally unaware that the Chapel holds
regular healing sessions organized by its own
Healing Ministry whose members belong to the
homegrown Emmanuel Catholic Charismatic
Community (ECCC).
Vision
The Emmanuel Catholic Charismatic
Community, a sanctuary for renewed Christians
experiencing the Life in the Spirit as the way to
salvation and eternal life.
of follow-through seminars were offered to all
members for their personal growth, deepening
their relationship with God and training them
to become future servant-leaders of the
community.
Leaders
ECCC members come from different
offices and residential communities within
Makati City and other parts of Metro Manila.
servant-leaders are Fhlor and Cecile Sistelo,
who are supported by the Council of Servant
Leaders composed of heads of the following
ministries: Praise and Worship Group, Healing
and Intercessory Ministry, Pastoral and
Shepherding Ministry, Spiritual Formation
Ministry, Information and Communications
Ministry and Finance Ministry. One of our
founders, Ed de Leon, is the chairman of the
Board of Trustees of the ECCC Foundation. ECCC
Mission
To lead in the conversion of souls and to
live a Christian life baptized and empowered by
the Holy Spirit.
History
A group of lay ministers from Sto. Niño de
Paz Community and the chaplain then, Fr. Anton
CT Pascual, organized the Emmanuel Community
to evangelize Makati and propagate God’s word
to its members.
Its first Life in the Spirit Seminar (LSS)
from June to July 1993 produced 72 graduates
who became the first members of the Emmanuel
Community. LSS #2 followed in September
1993. After conducting 32 LSS and 24 Marriage
Encounter Weekends, Emmanuel Community
members grew to more than 3,000. A series
The Emmanuel Community presents musical performances from time to time such as The Passion, which has been shown in the last two years, and
Joseph the Dreamer.
The community holds its prayer meeting every
Tuesday evening to praise and worship the
Lord. The community Mass is held on the fourth
Tuesday of the month. ECCC has two spiritual
directors: Greenbelt chaplain Fr. Jun Sescon and
Fr. Ulrich Gacayan, RCJ.
The Emmanuel Community’s presiding
is a member of the Federation of Transparochial
Catholic Charismatic Communities.
Healing
Out of the need for a new and bigger
Healing Ministry for the Greenbelt Chapel
Continued on next page...
Continued...Evangelizing
Community, the Emmanuel Community
decided to form a new ministry under the
Healing Group, the Emmanuel and Greenbelt
Healing Ministry. The ministry aims to make the
Emmanuel Community a healing community so
it can bring Jesus to the faithful, especially the
Greenbelt Chapel Community.
It was first led by Lea Bautista under
JakiSingson, head of the Healing Group during
the time of ECCC presiding servant-leader
Albert Morales. After Lea resigned, a tri-cord
composed of Weng Orge, Nelda Bustamante
and Marivic Horlador led the ministry. Healing
Masses were held every last Tuesday and
Thursday of the month, presided by Fr. Arlo
Yap, Fr. Mario Bije and Fr. Joey Faller, among
others. The monthly healing sessions then were
held Wednesdays after the 5:45pm Mass and
Sundays after the 12 noon Mass.
To ensure that healing ministers assigned
could have the best formation, ECCC invited
healing priests from other countries and
organized big healing events in coordination with
other transparochial charismatic communities.
Who could forget “Belonging” and “Healing
the Eight Stages of Life” by Dennis, Matthew
and Shiela Linn in 1995 or “Fires of Healing” of
visionaries Fr. Carl Schmidt and Sis. Mary Hogan
in 1996 and 1997?
Meanwhile, Greenbelt Chapel also
invited healing visionary Julia Kim from Korea.
Some healing Masses were also presided
by Fr. Corsie Legaspi and Fr. Diwane Cacao.
At the ministry’s retreat.
James Llames and the late Amy Arenas under
Maver Mayuga, servant-leader of Healing and
Intercessory Ministry and Normie Salunga,
presiding servant-leader.
When Fr. Mylo Hubert C. Vergara became
chaplain in 2000, the healing sessions were
limited to every first Sunday of the month, after
ECCC Healing Ministry conducts Healing Session every first
Sunday of the month after the 12nn Mass.
the 12 noon mass. This gave servants more time
to reflect and be more prayerful for the services
they have rendered to the Lord. In 2005, Edith
Mateo led the Healing Ministry under Beth
Valenciano, servant-leader of Healing and
Intercessory Ministry and Winnie Angeles,
presiding servant-leader.
In May 2008, a new set of leaders
emerged after a process of discernment. They
included Che Arroyo, head of the Healing subministry, and Nelda Bustamante, servant-leader
of Healing and Intercessory Ministry. The new
goal of the Intercessory and Healing Ministry is
for its members to become gifted and fruitful
intercessors and healing ministers. In line with
this, the Emmanuel and Greenbelt Healing
Ministry hopes to intensify its healing activities
by reviving healing Masses without forgetting
to spend quiet time with the Lord, the source
and fullness of life.
During the last two years, the following
priests presided over healing Masses: Fr. Larry
Tan, SDB; Fr. Arnold Layoc; Fr. Gerald Metal; Fr.
Mario Bije, SVD and Fr. Fernando Suarez, CC.
Overseas Filipino worker turned visionary Emma
de Guzman also visited the Greenbelt Chapel
community last year.
(Emmanuel and Greenbelt Healing Ministry
story by Winnie Angeles, Nelda Bustamante
and Mike Mundo)
ECCC conducts Kids’ Workshop every summer.
When Weng Orge took an indefinite leave,
Nelda Bustamante and Marivic Horlador led
the Healing Sub-ministry again under Normie
Salunga, head of ECCC’s Healing Group, and
Amy Lo, ECCC presiding servant-leader. Other
ministry leaders emerged later on, including
A regular workshop of the ministry of information.
Continued...Singing
served the Chapel. In addition to these choral
ensembles, 10 prominent choirs, including
the University of the East Chorale, Philippine
Women’s University Chorale, Novo Concertante
Manila and the PNP Chorale, became guest
choirs in the Chapel.
The group also staged concerts and other
public performances to generate funds for sociocivic projects, benefitting the Mission Society of
the Philippines, Our Lady of St. Francis in Ormoc
and Carmelite Sisters of St. John, among other
institutions. It also introduced Rosario Cantata,
a special program enacting selected mysteries of
the rosary with prayerful rendition of selected
songs to cap the celebration.
Through the dynamic and meticulous
leadership of Joyce Concepcion and Maria
Victoria Abanto of Allied Bank Chorale from 2003
to 2005, LMG significantly contributed to the
drafting and completion of the Pastoral Council
Guidelines for Greenbelt Chapel Servants.
They held a strategic planning to reestablish harmonious relationship among the
members and come up with group guidelines. Fr.
Different choir groups in different performances for chapel activities.
Nilo Mangussad, its technical formator, gave talks
on liturgical and sacred music. On their second
term, the late Joan Nicomedes of Hymno Chorale
joined them. It was during this planning that the
Grand Chorale was
conceptualized. The
late Mike Mercado
was the musical
director, assisted
by Teri Calumag of
the Serviam Christus
Ensemble and Joan.
Rico Askin
and Naidz Abragan
became coordinators
of the group from
2005 to 2006. They
were succeeded
by Babes Bardos of
Sunshine Choir and
Noel Rafael of Singing Disciples Choir who
served as coordinator and assistant coordinator,
respectively, from 2006 and 2007. Noel Rafael
passed on his baton to Terry Gilbuena of
Archangels Choir as assistant coordinator while
Babes Bardos continued to lead LMG from 2007
to 2008.
LMG remarkably spearheaded the festive
celebration of the Chapel’s 25th Anniversary
marked with a sportsfest participated in by
servants and Silver Jubilee concert. The
leadership then also came up with and adopted
guidelines for choir accreditation to ensure
conformity to the overall Mission-Vision and
objectives of the Chapel and, most important, for
each member to imbibe the CHILD (Communio,
Holiness, Involvement, Love and Docility) values.
Furthermore, LMG conducted a songwriting competition that gave birth to “Heaven
on Earth”, an original composition by Grace
Garcia-Bulos and arrangement by Orion Miranda
of His Morning Choir. The song has become the
official hymn of Greenbelt Chapel.
In 2009, Eric Ganaden of Alay Himig
Chorale assumed the LMG headship while Terry
Gilbuena of Archangels Choir and Arnel Vibar of
Ars Cantica Ensemble were appointed assistant
coordinators. Eric Ganaden and Arnel Vibar were
reappointed this
year.
Through
m o d e r n
technology, the
LMG library of
song sheets,
midi files and
other reference
m a t e r i a l s fo r
various liturgical
seasons and
celebrations
b e c a m e
available to choir
representatives,
while technical and Spiritual formation activities
were intensified. These included vocal trainings
dubbed as “Singspiration”, Ako Mismo Kasama
si Bro: A one-day out-of-town recollection and
LMG 101: Back to Basics.
Worship, Education, Service and
Temporalities (WEST) Committee was formed
to encourage participation of choir leaders in
planning LMG-based programs and Chapel-wide
activities. The committee is also a tool to look
for or hone new leaders as it pursues further
development and improvement of the group.
In doing so, the group is able to make God’s
presence and presents radiate and felt not only
within the Chapel but throughout the greater
community as well.
LMG aspires to expand its horizon by
solidifying the faculties of its core—the LMG
choristers who are united by their immense love
for music and big heart for service.
(LMG story by Eric Ganaden, coordinator,
with introduction by Ma. Chona P. Salvaña)
Anniversary 2010 Greenleaf
Pillars of Faith
15 minutes from Quezon City
“Because there’s a will…”
By Gale Launio, assistant coordinator, LECCOM
She walked briskly, almost running, not minding
her three-inch-high heels and knee-high skirt
matched with a pure white top as she trailed
the elliptical pathway to her destination. It was
5:57pm. She stopped when she reached the
bridge, panting, sweating, catching her breath.
Then, she shifted her pace to a high school-CATAdjutant trot to the sacristy, finally joining her
fellow servants who were all in white. It was
Saturday afternoon and the 6pm anticipated
Mass was about to begin.
Regina Esteban, Tita Regie to some of us
in the Lectors and Commentators Group (LECCOM), sat on one of the pews, a couple of rows
away from the altar. She wore her usual white
top-black skirt terno. She was not on scheduled
service yet she was ready in case she would be
needed.
commentator took the rostrum
for the Mass to begin. It was the
only rostrum then so both lectors
and commentator read on the
same rostrum.
And there were a few
servants as well. Fanny Diploma,
the foundress herself, was lector and whoever was available
would proclaim the Word. There
were two or three lay ministers.
All the servants were also the
Mass collectors.
Back then, there were neither definite groups nor specific
ministries, not even a chaplain.
It was only when the Chapel was
placed under the supervision of
the Salesians of Don Bosco that
Fr. Eli Santos, SDB, said Mass on
27 years in an oasis
Memories of flying birds and abundant a regular basis. Tita Regie saw
greens around her remain fresh in her mind the need for servants so she volunteered and bewhen she first walked onto a newly found came the newest commentator, lector, collector,
spiritual sanctuary 27 years ago. Nestled in the greeter and even choir member. Servanthood
middle of an aviary, Greenbelt Chapel was a ha- back then literally meant as defined.
As the commentator began with the Mass
ven, an oasis that seems to have secretly sprung
in the heart of the very busy Makati Central introduction while Mass goers make their way
into the chapel through the main bridge facing
Business District.
On her very first time to step into the the altar, the only entrance and exit door to
the Chapel then, and the
servants and priest walked
to the altar, Tita Regie was
nervous. It was after all her
first day as a lector.
Looking at her fellow lectors now, she says
it was only natural to look
uneasy when proclaiming for the first time. Your
hands might shake or you
could even choke uttering
the first word. Lectors and
commentators then were
encouraged to undergo
speech training and seminars, and seriously, some
Regie together with facilitators and Fr. Paul Marquez, SSP (third from right) in a pilgrimage last year.
who didn’t make the cut
Chapel, Tita Regie felt really different being were still encouraged to join other ministries.
there. The solemn silence enveloping the Chapel gave her a light feeling inside and peace of Still in love with serving
Being one of the pioneers did not give
mind that momentarily took her away from the
real world. She could even hear her heartbeat, her immunity (she never asked for it either)
from criticisms, constructive and otherwise,
to exaggerate.
The young lady then would begin her ser- and corrections from other servants and even
vice by taking the lectionary, browsing through from priests. Name it—she took her fair share
its pages for the day’s reading. She reviewed of everything.
But she never took offense because
the passage while her fellow servants prayed
the prayer before service, raising her hands as she thought it was a way of looking at herself
if joining the prayer, but her eyes and lips were through the eyes of other people. Accepting
focused on her last-minute review. Then the one’s mistakes in public may not be easy but
for Tita Regie, everything depends on how we
look at things. Regardless of the other party’s
intentions in correcting a member, humility never
loses its trendiness.
Popularity or glamour did not also cross
her mind. For her, a lector should see every
opportunity to stand before the lectern as a
privilege to proclaim and share the word of the
Father to everyone, not a cynic’s showcase of
verbal eloquence.
Thus, every service should be guided
by the code: “As Lector or Commentator, one
is oriented to refrain from being the center of
attraction or be a cause of distraction to the
faithful; rather, it is his or her responsibility to
help the people focus on the word of the Lord.”
Like many members of the LECCOM
Group, Tita Regie has her favorite Bible verse
in I Corinthian 13:4, which guides her in dealing
with fellow lectors or other people. She loves
it so much that created her version in Filipino
by replacing the word “love” with her name: “Si
Regie ay matiyaga at magandang loob, hindi
nananaghili, nagmamapuri o nagmamataas,
hindi magaspang ang ugali, hindi makasarili,
hindi magagalitin o mapagtanim sa kapwa…”
Around half past five of that afternoon,
she had a hard time getting a cab in front of her
house in Quezon City. Though unsure if she can
still make it to the 6pm Mass, Tita Regie did not
lose hope, prayed and decided to proceed. With
God’s grace, amazingly, the traffic was light, and
by taking a different route, her usual hour and a
half travel time was cut down to 15 minutes. As
she would say, “If there’s a will, there’s always
a way.”
Tita Regie is right, and if I may add, “If
it’s according to God’s will, there will always
be a way.”
Anniversary 2010 Farewell, My Brother
By Ric M. Castillo, Jr.
Moving back the hands of time…
Was it a couple of years ago
With firmness and resolve to serve the Lord
Turned your back on a gregarious night life
Filled with worldly entertainment and pleasures
As you buried into oblivion the booze and funky music
Driving man’s spirit wild while making him susceptible to sin?
Had your eyes suddenly grown tired and weary
The glittering colored lights its magic sparkle lost
No longer able to hold power to dazzle the spirit?
Ah, true: “The spirit is willing but the flesh is weak”!
And so to the alluring attractions of the world and the flesh
You and I, my brother, were not born immune from
But by God’s grace, do we not mortals, albeit weak, find strength?
Not that we were lost and have found the Lord
But rather it was the God Shepherd who found us
Leaving the ninety-nine behind He searched for one lost sheep
Here…there…everywhere…every step of the way…
Never tiring…never giving up…until home the sheep astray
O what joy! As in heaven angels rejoice over the return of one lost sheep!
O my brother, how fast time flies…
Was it but yesterday when you were here
As you fill the air with song and laughter?
What is man’s body but a speck of dust
Today, here and tomorrow gone forever?
Where man made up of body only sans the soul
Death then as the final end would spell disaster
For without the promise of an after life, what is there to hope for?
But God’s love gave us His only Son to redeem us
So in Him we may believe and have Eternal Life.
Having lived life your way for some time
At the latter part you learned to live it God’s way
Gone the time when you preferred darkness to light
Yes, as you acknowledged God’s goodness and mercy
Subtly you became aware ‘twas Christ who strengthened you
As the end drew near you left pain and suffering…the more the offering
With the pangs of pain lifted up high in union with the Cross
Making the agonizing moments meaningful before God’s mercy
Truly, God is good and His mercy, afresh each morn, lasts forever.
As you journey, my brother, to the netherworld
Forget not the Good Shepherd who leads you to the Father
Even if you walk into the deepest darkness
Fear not for the Lord is always with you
There to protect and guide you along the best pathways
With His light shining brightly every step of the way
That you may not falter nor be lost in a world of the unknown
Yes, unravel for us the mystery that lies over the great beyond
And as you reach the final destination where heavenly bliss abound
Rejoice! Again, my brother, I say rejoice! Let IESU easter in you!
(Lay minister, lector and commentator, choir member, artist, friend and co-servant Anton Ventura, ever
jolly and selfless in his many years of service at Greenbelt Chapel, joined his creator in April this year.
His presence is sorely missed.)
Greenleaf
Joys, struggles and pains of a servant
By Dimsy V. Lucas
Asst. Coordinator, Info Group 2007-2008
Coordinator, Info Group 2009-present
were hesitant to serve together with the boys
because we might look like a deacon or a priest
beside them. And I thought it would not easy
to recruit boys. It was providential though
that some fellow servant-parents had children
within the age group.
When Fr. Pericles “Prex” Fajardo became
chaplain sometime in 2001, I was re-appointed
as coordinator. Leading the group then brought
many joyful and wonderful experiences that I
always cherish. I had to be a role model, a friend
and a big brother to the boys, while those of my
age, their barkada (pal). In one way or another, I
of Altar Servers. I was not just coordinating
with them but also with their parents and
guardians when we had fellowships, training
“In all His dispensations, God is at work for our
and seminars.
good. In prosperity, He tries our gratitude; in
My term ended in 2003 but looking
mediocrity, our contentment; in misfortune,
back, those four years meant many grateful,
our submission; in darkness, our faith; under
faithful and fruitful experiences that I will
temptation, our steadfastness; and at all times,
treasure for the rest of my life. Some of the
our obedience and trust in Him.” —Anonymous
boys are now young professionals. A handful
of them opted to become men of the cloth
I became a servant of Greenbelt Chapel
and enrolled in seminaries.
in 1999. When the Lectors & Commentators
Although I was not a member of the
Group announced it was looking for new
Pastoral Council from 2004 to 2006, I served as
members in December 1998, I applied, inspired
Lay Minister of the Eucharistic Ministers
by the Holy Spirit and servants. But
of the Holy Communion (EMHC) and
before my audition as proclaimer of
lector/commentator of the Lectors &
the Word of God, I was approached and
Commentators Group (LECCOM).
encouraged by Noel Godinez, then the
I became a member of the
head of the Acolyte Ministry, called the
Information Group of the Education
Altar Servers Group (ASG) today, to join
Ministry in 2006 then headed by
the ministry because they needed young
Chona Salvaña with Shawi Dionisio as
professionals.
assistant coordinator. Since I don’t have
In 2000, then chaplain Msgr.
the passion for journalism or creative
Mylo Hubert C. Vergara, now Bishop
writing, I was tasked with documentation
of San Jose, Nueva Ecija, appointed me
(photography and videography), but
coordinator of ASG. Hesitant, I said I
they said “members should also have
was not worthy to become one. He
knowledge of the group’s tasks” to
replied, “God has chosen you to become
develop second liners.
a coordinator, not me; I was just His
In 2007, I was asked by our
instrument.”
present chaplain Fr. Jun Sescon to
Our group then was composed of
lead the Information Group. Again, I
young professionals who were working With other members of the Altar Servers Group in a seminar at Archdiocese of Manila in 2002. hesitated and expressed this to him,
in Makati. We were just a handful. One
had to mold them to become better and faithful
saying I was not capable as I do not have the
of the thrusts of Msgr. Mylo was to recruit servants, encouraging them to attend spiritual
abilities and skills to handle the group.
boys aged nine years old and above to serve development and nourishment programs
He explained that with my previous
on Saturday and Sunday Masses. Since this such as recollections and formations of the
would be a first for the chapel, some of us Vicariate and Archdiocese of Manila Ministry
Continued on next page...
Anniversary 2010 Continued... Joys
assignment as ASG coordinator, I already
possess the qualifications of a coordinator
and I need not be a journalist since the group
has writers and journalists already. I did not
accept his offer, but with his convincing power
and charisma, I accepted the post of assistant
coordinator instead.
Serving in Info, as we call the group, was
more challenging because I had to learn new
tasks: writing for and laying out the newsletter,
video editing and rendering collateral materials
(tarpaulin, poster, stampita, flyers, brochures),
among other tasks.
Another challenge was that, as a former
ASG coordinator who led boys and young
Dimsy with fellow servants during a retreat in Tagaytay City in 2005.
professionals, in Info I had to coordinate with
professionals adept in their fields of work.
Though I have become part of the group, I still
doubted my abilities for the new assignment.
If my main responsibility in ASG was to
ensure there was a servant in every Mass, in Info
it was very different. We had to coordinate with
different service groups for their promotional
needs and the Chapel administration for printing
of Greenleaf, our newsletter, preparation of
Mass announcements and handling the bulletin
With Information Group and Fr. Jun (center) in February 2009.
Greenleaf
boards. We had to beat deadlines
to ensure all promotional materials
conform to the teachings of the
Church.
The greatest challenge in
my service came in 2008 when the
Chapel celebrated its Silver Jubilee,
when Info was loaded with many
tasks. One of my specific tasks
was to do a video presentation
of “Heaven on Earth”, the Chapel
anniversary theme song, to be shown
after every Mass during the entire
anniversary month. I was assisted
by then Worship Ministry secretary
and former Info coordinator Chona Salvaña.
We also created the audio-visual presentation
With Fr. Jun at the group’s fellowship in February 2009.
finished what we started. As they say, “The
show must go on!”, and we did, believing we
accomplished our tasks well.
In 2009, I was appointed Info
coordinator, and again, based on my
experiences, I wanted to decline. However,
the persuasiveness and charisma of the
chaplain prevailed.
Knowing the difficulties the position
entails, I sought the guidance and help of
former heads of the Education Ministry
and Information Group. With their and the
members’ support and the knowledge and
skills I acquired in handling the services of the
group, the responsibilities, despite the everpresent pressure, became less burdensome.
Then another challenge came early this
year when I was medically advised to keep
myself healthy and avoid stressful activities.
This forced me to take a leave of absence as
coordinator for three months.
Despite the many struggles and pains
of being a coordinator and a servant, I also
discovered many joys that make serving very
gratifying. The faithfulness of our members
whom I consider brothers and sisters inspire
me to go on amidst the trials and challenges,
which continue to mold me to become faithful
and truthful in my service and stronger in my
faith.
of all service groups based on the theme,
“Communio, Holiness, Involvement, Love and
Docility” (CHILD).
In the middle of our preparations in
June, my father passed away and I
felt a bit disgruntled. As the eldest
of four siblings, I had to attend to
the wake and funeral of my father
in our province. While in grief,
I still kept communication lines
open, entertaining queries on the
tasks I left behind. I
kept asking myself
though: “Do I really
need to do all these
even during this rough
time in my life?”; “Is it
time to abandon what
Dimsy and other members of the Altar Servers Group at their post-Christmas party at
I started or just face Enchanted Kingdom, February 25, 2003 (from left, standing) Evan, Jigo, Aaron, Ven John
the challenges?”; “Do Pete, Dimsy, two personnel of EK, Pach, Robert, Jose, Chris (from left, sitting) Dennis,
Paolo, Renz Nico, J.M. and Nico.
I need to resign?”; “Is
this a test of my faith
I do not know what the future holds for
and being a servant?”
me or until when I will hang on, but for now,
But these were answered I am certain that I will still deliver fruitful and
when I returned to Manila and meaningful service with the help of God.
Litany of Humility
O Jesus! Meek and humble of heart,
From
From
From
From
From
From
From
From
From
From
From
From
From
From
From
From
the
the
the
the
the
the
the
the
the
the
the
the
the
the
the
the
Hear me.
desire of being esteemed,
Deliver me, Jesus.
desire of being loved, …
desire of being extolled, …
desire of being honored, …
desire of being praised, …
desire of being preferred to others, …
desire of being consulted, …
desire of being approved, …
fear of being humiliated, …
fear of being despised, …
fear of suffering rebukes, …
fear of being calumniated, …
fear of being forgotten, …
fear of being ridiculed, …
fear of being wronged, …
fear of being suspected, …
That others may be loved more than I, Jesus, grant me the grace to desire it.
That others may be esteemed more than I, …
That in the opinion of the world others may increase and I may decrease, …
That others may be chosen and I set aside, …
That others may be praised and I unnoticed, …
That others may be preferred to me in everything, …
That others become holier than I, provided
that I may become as holy as I should, …
(Through this prayer composed by Rafael Cardinal Merry del Val, the secretary of state
for Pope Saint Pius X who often recited it after the celebration of the holy Mass, Juris
Umali-Soliman extends her congratulations to the Sto. Nino de Paz Community on its 27th
anniversary.)
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Photo by Edwin P. Galvez
Anniversary 2010 Greenleaf