the roseleaf - Rosewood UMC Los Angeles

THE ROSELEAF
NEWSLETTER OF ROSEWOOD UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
Where the Gospel and the Love of Christ are at Work
JULY 2013
4101 W. Rosewood Avenue, Los Angeles CA 90004
Father’s Day”. It was followed with letters and
poems read by the older children and the Youth.
Testimonies about their fathers were given by Kristen
Laciste and Cynthia Velicaria. Jose “Poch” Mendoza
gave the message honoring his father, Atty. Bert
Mendoza, who incidentally was the recipient the day
before, of an award from the United Methodist
Church for his advocacy work. He ended his sermon
with a video clip about parents in their golden and
less-independent years, which brought many to tears.
Special awards were also given out to the oldest father
(Tata Bonnie Romano) and to the youngest father
(Kevin Lapus).
– by Lou Diaz
NAFAUM 100-VOICE CHOIR
PERFORMS AT CAL-PAC
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
The NAFAUM 100-voice Centennial Choir
performed at the CAL-PAC Annual Conference at
the University of Redlands last Thursday, June 13,
2013, during the Conference’s Memorial Service that
evening. The mass choir of about 80 participants,
sang “Bagong Siglo, Bagong Sigla” which was very
well received by the assembly. The song is one of the
theme anthems of the forthcoming NAFAUM
Convocation on July 23-26 at the Riviera United
Methodist Church in Redondo Beach, California.
ROSEWOOD 2013 ANNUAL
FAMILY RETREAT AT CAMP
SKY MEADOWS
“Bagong Siglo, Bagong Sigla” and “Salubong Sa
Bagong Siglo” the two main featured anthems for the
convocation, together with the “Amen” chorus as
choral response at the Centennial Celebration service
on July 25, are all the works of Erich D. Parungao,
our very own Music Director at Rosewood UMC,
who was commissioned by NAFAUM to compose
these theme anthems for the centennial celebration of
Filipino-American Methodism at the convocation.
This year’s Retreat will be from Friday, July 12 to
Sunday, July 14, 2013 at Camp Sky Meadows which is
located on 25 acres in the Barton Flats area of the
beautiful San Bernardino Mountains. The camp
provides natural beauty, and splendid recreational
opportunities. The Organizing Committee has
announced that the registered members who will be
attending has reached a total of approximately 60
attendees which is way below the attendance in the
previous Retreats.
ROSEWOOD CELEBRATES
FATHERS DAY
It was the fathers turn to be honored last June 16th at
Rosewood UMC. The whole service centered around
the celebration of” Father’s Day.” It started off with
the “Litany for Fathers” when all the Fathers - old,
young, stepfathers, adoptive fathers, single Dads were all asked to come forward upon which the whole
congregation recited the litany. After the litany, each
father was handed with a “Man of God – Special
Father” magnet by some members of the Youth.
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
John F. Kennedy
Let every nation know, whether it
wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay
any price, bear any burden, meet any
hardship, support any friend, oppose
any foe, in order to assure the survival
and the success of liberty.
The different children age-groups then honored the
fathers with their special presentations. The little tots
(Pre-K and Kinder) brought out their poster sized
card covered with little hearts that said “Happy
1
REFOCUSING OUR SPIRITUAL LENSES
by Rev. Dr. David Jamir
of the Rosewood Church. We want all to participate. I
have another request as well; if you are a single young
adult, take your photo alone as well as with your
family. This will allow us to have more church activity
pages. This will also be a good Christmas photo this
year. I urge you to sign-in with the committee starting
July 14.
I greet you in the name of the Lord.
Well, summer is a time to spend with our children
(family time), while they are not busy with school or
school related activities. I pray that you will have a
great time; but remember your church does not take a
summer break. The business of the gospel stays steady,
while the bills still arrive with a due date. So, be
mindful and continue to support your church while
you are away. Incidentally our RUMC web site gives
you an opportunity to give your offering online. Check
it out!
Our Photo taking Schedules are:
August 22-23 (Thurs-Friday) from 1:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Aug 24 (Sat) from 9:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Aug 29-30 (Thurs –Fri) from 1:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Aug 31 (Sat) from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Believe or not, I am in my 3rd appointment year at
Rosewood. You all have been very kind to me and I
am very grateful for the opportunity to be in ministry
together. As I look into our future I want to seriously
consider the following tasks
Sept 5-6 (Thurs-Fri) from 1:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Sept 7 (Sat) from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sept 12-13 (Thurs-Fri) from 1:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Sept 14 (Sat) from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
3). Our Focus is Christian Discipleship: Our
Christian Baptism calls us to a life of discipleship. It is
a radical call. Discipleship formation means no longer
being a pew spectator or a distant admirer of God, but
being resolved to get involved intimately in the reshaping our relationships with God and the world. We
cannot be Christ’s Disciple in isolation; only in
relationship. Christian formation does not happen
through osmosis, but requires our diligent efforts.
Disciples need to know the teachings of the Master,
our Savior. We cannot be blind followers. We have to
wrestle with how we are to apply His teachings here.
Yes, faith is about heaven, but before we get there, we
need to live our lives here on earth. What we confess
must be practiced or else it is too much Jesus and no
love. Too much church, but no faith. Let us not hide
behind our pews or God talk, but live the faith!
1). Children and Youth Ministries: I want us adults
to pay attention to their needs. I want us to act
charitably. I want us to be partners with them. I want
them to have a resilient faith and a home to come to
for worship without any coercion. So, here is my plea
to all. We need to raise a minimum of $10,000-$12,000
to support a Claremont School of Theology intern.
This student will commute to and from Claremont to
Rosewood. This student will give us between 10-15
hours per week of work. So, here is my plea: if God
has blessed you with wealth would you be so kind to
help us sponsor an intern? Let us invest in our future.
This position was approved by Administrative Council.
2). Pictorial Church Directory: Why do we need a
new Pictorial Directory? Here are my answers; First
our last Pictorial Directory was done 2010. Secondly,
the Pictorial Directory helps us to know people’s
names and faces together. Adults and longtime friends
may know each other well, but sometimes we don’t
know or remember the names of all our children.
Third, when new people become part of our
worshipping family they need to learn us by name.
I want everyone at Rosewood to attend some Bible
study to nurture our relationship with God. The
fullness of God in you will bless your everyday walk
with the Lord and enable you to seek passionate ways
to serve the Lord with others.
I am excited because we are partners together in the
Lord.
Our Administrative Council agreed and a Pictorial
Directory Committee is formed. Our Committee met
with the Life Touch directory agent and signed an
agreement to shoot photos of all members and friends
Pastor David
2
CHURCH SEASONS IN
JULY
The Christian Calendar is made up of seven seasons and 12 special Sundays, or other days. The seasons of the year are
centered around the birth, life, death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, the sending of the Holy Spirit to the Church,
and our part in the Kingdom of God. Special Sundays and other days within the Christian Year serve as times to celebrate
particular events of importance to us as Methodist Christians. Different seasons of the Christian Year have liturgical colors
and other symbols associated with them to remind us of the meaning of the season.
The entire month of JULY is in the period of “Ordinary Time” or, in the season of KINGDOMTIDE.
JUNE 30, 2013 -- U.S. INDEPENDENCE SUNDAY -- Independence Day commonly known as the
Fourth of July, is a federal holiday commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4,
1776, declaring independence from the Kingdom of Britain. Independence Day is commonly associated with
fireworks, parades, barbecues, carnivals, fairs, picnics, concerts, baseball games, political speeches and ceremonies,
and various other public and private events celebrating the history, government, and traditions of the United States.
Independence Day is the national day of the U. S. (Wikipedia) which was observed on Thursday, July 4.
KINGDOMTIDE – Some United Methodists call the season after Pentecost “Kingdomtide” to emphasize Jesus’
teaching about the Kingdom of God. This period is also referred to as “Ordinary Time” which is the Sundays
between the two great Christological cycles of Advent-Christmas-Epiphany, and Lent-Easter-Pentecost. The
shorter period of Ordinary time between Epiphany and Lent (Ash Wednesday) is designated as “Sundays after
Epiphany”. The longer period between Pentecost and Advent is designated as “Sundays after Pentecost”, or
Kingdomtide.
(Green Vestments)
UMM
---
MEN AT WORK
(AND WOMEN TOO)
Saturday, June 29th -- The United Methodist Men donned their work apparel and went to work at the recycling area
of the church to process all the accumulated recyclables brought in by our church members. Together with the last
batch of some 35 bags, the UMM team was able to add a couple of more bags of recycled cans, plastic water bottles,
milk plastic containers, and so forth as the men emptied the recycling storage bin. Recycling coordinator Rusty
Tuazon and UMM President Jojo Flores took the lead in the effort which had raised $455.
Simultaneously, The UMM was also having a Yard Sale at the church’s front lawn. Some UMW volunteers helped
out with the effort which in turn had raised $167 (for a total of $622). We encourage our members to be diligent
and consistent in bringing in your recyclables because it does generate funding for our church programs. In the
recent past the UMM used to have the recycling sessions every-other-month and would raise about $200-$300 per
session. The amount raised for the entire first half of 2013 has been the $455 raised last June 29. At the same time
last year, the UMM was able to raise about $900-$1,000 at the half-point of 2012.
3
14th BIENNIAL CONVOCATION
July 23—26, 2013
Riviera United Methodist Church
A Community of Compassion and Hope by the Sea
Theme: ‘Bagong Siglo, Bagong Sigla’
Hosted by the Filipino American United Methodists in the Cal-Pac Annual Conference
Riviera United Methodist Church is located on the west side of Palos Verdes Boulevard approximately onequarter mile south of Pacific Coast Highway near the intersection of Calle Miramar.
From Palos Verdes Boulevard, turn west onto Calle
Miramar and make an immediate right onto the
access road that runs parallel to Palos Verdes Blvd.
The church will be on your left. Parking is available
behind the building and along the street.
If Arriving From Out of the Area:
1. From the San Diego 405 freeway, exit at
Hawthorne Blvd. and turn right (from the
southbound freeway) or left (from the northbound
freeway) at the bottom of the off ramp.
2. Proceed south on Hawthorne Blvd. for 3.2 miles
to Torrance Blvd.
3. Turn right at Torrance Blvd. and continue 0.9
mile to Palos Verdes Blvd.
4. Turn left at Palos Verdes Blvd. and continue 2.4
miles to the church.
4
formation of the Filipino Caucus in the California Pacific
Annual Conference in 1974 was a part of the
Conference's wide-ranging push to included people of
color in the mainstream of church's life. Increasing
numbers of Filipino- Americans became a part of the
leadership of the total church in North America. Newly
arrived immigrants became embers and leaders in local
churches. Many pastors stayed on after graduate school
or immigrated under the religious category, or some
young people were challenged for ministry through the
Christmas Institute that soon was established, first in
southern California in 1981 -- spreading across the
country slowly, but surely. And many of the emerging
Filipino- American leaders began to fill positions of
responsibility in the national level -- as district
superintendents or members of the general boards.
ONE HUNDRED YEARS -- Celebrating
God's Faithfulness, Future for the Vital Ministries
"...I am a stranger and a sojourner among you..."
(Gen. 23:5, NRSV)
"...people seeking a homeland, a heavenly one..."
(Heb. 11:13, NRSV)
"...seek the welfare of the city in which you live, for in its
welfare you will find your welfare..." (Jer. 29:7, NRVS)
Filipinos started arriving in Hawaii soon after 1909. By
1912, they were arriving at the rate of 500 a month. By
1913 there were already "12,000 to 15,000" as reported
by Rev. Rudolph Zurbuken, a German-American pastor,
who was the first to work among the Filipino
immigrants to Hawaii.
It appears from records of the Hawaii Mission that Rev.
Zurbuken's style was to start work first, work hard -then talk about it later. Records show that by 1912,
work among Filipinos in Ewa Beach, Kahuku and Aiea
in Oahu, Makaweli in Kauaia and on Maui, had already
started or about to start. These works were officially
recognized and affirmed by the Hawaii Mission meeting
on February 27 to March 2, 1913. Dr. Luther J. Oconer,
Professor of the United Methodist Studies at United
Theological Seminary says that date "marks the
beginning of Methodist work with and among Filipino
immigrants in Hawaii..."
The success of the work among Filipinos in Hawaii was
such that by 1914, the report by Rev. Zurbuchen states,
"it is safe to say that the gospel has been preached to
move souls through this department of our Mission than
through any other branch."
In 1985, Filipino- Americans held the first biennial
national convocation as United Methodists (San Diego), - evidence of growth and expanding ministry. Part of the
goal was consolidation of resources and ministry as a
national group within The United Methodist Church, as
well as reaching out to the Philippine United Methodist
leaders as an affirmation of our connectional ties. Today
the biennial convocation continues as a means of vitality
and ministry, and the ties with Philippine Central
Conference leaders remain in place.
A case can be made about the individual contributions of
many of us to the total like of the church. This is
measured against current and emerging needs of our
church in North America, as well as needs in our
community of faith. A majority of our Filipino- American
churches labor under the weight of failure to match our
growth in numbers, in material resources, etc. with the
claims of our discipleship and stewardship life. So as we
celebrate our centennial at Riviera United Methodist
Church on July 23- 26, 2013, the larger question looms:
What is God calling us, personally, and as a community,
to be and do following all the joy of celebrating our 100
years as people of faith in American United Methodism?
Fast forward 50 years. Hawaii was a brand- new state -the 50th member of the union. By 1965, Filipinos
continued coming but no longer exclusively to Hawaii.
Highly educated members of the various professions -in medicine, nursing, teaching and other fields became
eligible to immigrate. No longer limited to 50 per year,
Filipinos benefited from the liberalized immigration
policies under the Immigration and Nationality Act of
1965. The destination shifted to the mainland, where, by
2000, Filipinos outnumbered all immigrant groups,
according to Census figures. That continues even today.
The civil rights movement of the 1960s and 1970s
became a part of the Filipino- American story, leading to
grater empowerment for all people of color. The
Our hope is to claim God's grace and faithfulness ever
more fully. Our Theme, "New Century, New Vitality"
seeks to recapture a renewed passion to share the story
of and witness to, the grace of God for our generation.
And to teach our children to do the same to theirs. To
that end, it is important to remember God's promise, "I
will be with you always, to the end of the age." (Matthew
2:20, b NRVS)
REV. Dr. Ben Vinluan and Mr. Pong Javier
NAFAUM Centennial Book Project Committee
5
meditation, Pastor Mike de Guzman led the invocation
and Pastor Mark gave the prayer of dedication and
expressed wonderful remarks about Glenn’s character: a
mild, meek and humble man who always looked after the
well-being of other people especially those in need.
Glenn, teary-eyed but happy, thanked the visitors,
friends and relatives for being there with him, and
advised everyone to live a happy life, enjoy every minute
of it for we do not know what it will bring next.
-- To Pastor David and Dr.
POTPOURRI ... ABOUT OUR
MEMBERS...ANNOUNCEMENTS…A
TBP…
-- by Lita Fajardo, Roseleaf Co-Editor
Helene Slessarev Jamir, Levi
Lopez, Karen, Vivian and
Andy Karapetyan, Emilie C.
THE VESPER GROUP (Filipino
Ministry)
of
Rosewood
UMC
successfully conducted their Fund
Raising Luncheon last July 7, 2013.
They were able to raise $544.00. The
group conveyed their warmest thanks to the
overwhelming support of all the members of the church
for the success of the fund raising event. This activity is
just one of their undertakings to raise financial support
for various mission of the church. Other on-going
projects of the group are "Barya Mo, Ibigay Mo Kay
Kristo" and the production of a Souvenir Program in
relation to the Filipino Ministry Celebration this coming
Sept. 29. -by Ruben de Guzman
Baradi for being the coffee hosts last Sunday, June 30th.
We thank Annette Lingad, Ana Flores and son, Ethan,
and Evelyn Manacop for helping us prepare the snack
brown bags. Thanks also to Annette for some delicacies
she brought for the children.
-- To Bobby del Mar came one day to fix the sliding
door divider between the sanctuary and the Social Hall.
Thank you for your time and effort, Kuya Bobby!
-- To Yoly Damian donated 20 beach towels for our
graduates who were recognized last Sunday during the
worship service. Thank you so much, Yoly for your
generosity. God bless your heart!
IN LOVING MEMORY -- The Fajardo Family
commemorated the death anniversaries of their beloved
brother, Lingkod Fajardo (1st) and father, Leonor
Fajardo (6th) last Thursday, July 11th with a memorial
service administered by Pastor David and Pastor Mike
deGuzman. The celebration was held at Rosewood UMC
and was attended by some close relatives and friends of
the family. A reception followed wherein some of
Lingkod’s favorite food was served. The family would
like to express their heartfelt gratitude to all those who
came and shared in the celebration of Lingkod’s and
Tata Leonor’s lives.
Vesper Group fundraiser – Sunday, July 7
TRAVEL MERCIES -- Last Thursday, June 27 Fred
and Chit Padolina left for New Jersey to attend the
wedding of their nephew, Jay Lopez on July 5th, and to
celebrate the birthday and 2nd death anniversary of
their beloved mother, Sevilla Lopez on July 6th. All of
the Lopezes here in California (Shiela’s, Roxy’s, Fe,
Jean) and in Canada (Cesar’s) with their respective
families came for the celebration.
YOUTH LOCK-IN -- The Youth had an overnight
LOCK-IN at Rosewood UMC last Saturday, July 6. The
Youth were given an opportunity to fellowship and
bond with one another via a long period without any
activities. The two bible study sessions centered around
God's call to us not to conform (to the world), but to
be transformed (by our faith). The Youth learned about
the concept of right and wrong, straying away from the
‘gray areas’ of life. The bonding and learning doesn't
stop as we look forward to continuing to build our
relationships with each other and with God through
Sunday bible studies, regular devotional time, periodic
Youth events. -- April Abrena & Kevin Lapus
A BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION -- A thanksgiving
service for Glenn Padolina’s 39th birthday was held on
Saturday, June 22nd at their residence in Cerritos. As
was observed, “everyone was filled and blessed with the
hymn singing, prayers, message and birthday wishes for
the celebrant. Pastor Jamir delivered a spirit-filled
6
JULY
Tumangan, Rebecca Rivera, Cion Caballero, Jean
Lacerna, Ernesto & Perla Pasilong, Connie Baradi,
Robin Ramirez.
CELEBRANTS
Friends & Relatives of Members:
Birthdays:
Estellita Pinlac, Eduardo Parungao Sr., Cesar Anson,
Georgia Gaitanou & Nick Lapis, Ed Guno, Ely
Fajardo, Lincoln Brazal, Harper, Faith Manacop,
Arturo Esguerra, Sheila Ruiz,
Susana
Borje,
Richard
Kennemer, Delia Dulay, Michael
Manacop, Kristine Munda, Mila
Madolora, Lynette Nolan, Nelda
Perez, Ana-Aidee Urda, Patria Sempe, Adelaida
Angeles, Dr. Faustino Domingo, Bing Llauder-Larino,
Dr. Gino Domingo, Kimani Johnson, Barbara Scott,
Cesar Tolentino, Aida Garcia, Bob Douglas, Annie
Anson, Angie Jocson, Ma. Corazon Reyes, Ronnie
Mendoza, Precioso Salvador, Jr., Florante & Pedro
Katigbak, Girlie Paray, Joe T. Mendoza, Nieves
Antonino, Luz M. Rosco, Carmen Aguas, Editha
Lopez, Steve & Grace Weltman, Imelda S. Bawas,
Isabel
Rodriguez, Romy & Araceli Requentin,
Gerardo Bauzon, Edward Greenwell, Marites Camiso,
Gina Arias, Maria Villaflor, Eliseo Cunanan, Elizabeth
Verniere, Christina Ignacio, Milagros Nunag, Fiona
Molina, Sabio Family, Christa Wilburn, Bianca
Burwell, Renato Romano, Ebbie Aquino.
b). For Protection, Guidance and Comfort:
Erling Bonifacio, Tricia Mirandilla, Alvin and Jen
Naguit, Nadine and Adrian Concepcion, Erlinda
Fajardo, Aurelio Brazal, Rae Mirandilla, Annette
Lingad, Melinda Songco, Andrew & Rizza Bandong,
Ben & Irinea Aquino, Andres & Crispina Lodriguito,
Joshua Ramos, Philip Damian, Elaine Wilburn, Benjie
Davis, Ed, Cecil, Christie, Carla Manacop, Reuel &
Vivien de Guzman, Abby Buencamino, Thelma Magat,
Frank and Jasmin Jimeno, Don Wilburn, Jr.
c). For Employment Opportunity:
Janet Baker, Rosario “Chit” Cruz, Chip Aquino, Becky
Woude, Tracy Nadeau.
____________________________________________
1 - Mika Ramos, Rachelle Cachero
4 – Samantha Mendoza
5 – Cynthia Olympia, Fil Sapinoso
6 – Rael Bunuan, Miles David Sadang
7 – Ding Lapus, Isabella Victoria Baradi
8 – Joseph Olympia
10 – Morris Villarosa
11 – Judith Flores
12 – Ruth Evans
13 – Anizette Lingad, Erlinda Fajardo
16 - Roy Caballero, Imelda Nosa
17 – Jun-jun Manacop
18 – Juliet Sumadsad
22 – Levita Padolina
23 – Roger Velicaria, Jr.
26 – Ester Cruz, Roda Concepcion
28 – Elijah Samuel Tuazon
30 – Amy Manacop, Brenda Baradi
31 – Cecile Villarosa
Anniversaries :
July
July
July
July
1 - Melston and Brenda Baradi – 13th
1 – David and Janice Bessler – 2nd
8 – Rogelio and Luz Velicaria – 51st
15 – Rael and Margie Bunuan – 7th
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
In Our
HEARTS and
in our
PRAYERS…
CENTENNIAL OF FILIPINO-AMERICAN METHODISM
a). For Healing & Recovery:
Within the Church Community:
Lucas Jimeno, Bob Evans, Connie Baradi, Jean de
Guzman, Roda Concepcion, Pastor Roy Padilla, Pastor
Egay Refuerzo, Glenn Padolina, Betty Cadiz, Katie
Gaitanou, Bonifacio Romano, Estela Baradi, Beth
Piopongco, Julie Olivar, Ruth Manacop, Zenaida
CENTENNIAL OF FILIPINO-AMERICAN METHODISM
7
COMING UP -- ON OUR CHURCH
[Continued from page 12 … Are Ye Able (Still?) ]
CALENDAR for JULY
-- After they are formed in January, some committees
or ministries simply ‘disappear’ and lose servitude
altogether the rest of the year. In fact, I have joked with
some of my fellow Trustees that when we raised our
right hands during the officer’s installation rites last
January and accepted our respective positions, we
JULY 4, THURSDAY – INDRPENDENCE DAY
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
JULY 7 – INDEPENDENCE DAY SUNDAY
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
JULY 12, 13, 14 -- FRIDAY TO SUNDAY
vowed to fulfill the duties and responsibilities of these said
positions and had pledged to uphold them and to do so for a
FAMILY SPIRITUAL RETREAT
full year! Are we doing the full ‘tour of duty’ or merely
fulfilling the minimum requirements?
CAMP SKY MEADOWS
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
JULY 19, FRIDAY 1:00 PM – FOOD DISTRIBUTION
-- After so many years of having the annual family
retreat, this year’s retreat may just have the lowest
turnout with the least number of attendees on record.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
JULY 20, SATURDAY, 7 AM – PRAYER BREAKFAST
STEWARDSHIP & FINANCE COMMITTEE IN-CHARGE
9:00 AM – CHURCH COUNCIL MEETING
It has become understandable to me, being
unemployed and able to participate more in church
activities, that it is easy to see how members may have
other aspects of their lives that are more pressing and
that are probably “of more importance” than church
activities. During these past few months, I have gotten
to spend time with our church seniors and/or retirees
who, like me, have likewise noticed these trends or turn
of events in this parish. I guess the obvious question
becomes: “If we were able to make time to serve the
Lord in the past years, why not anymore? Does this
current “dip” in our service and participation in the
work of the Lord and His church become justified
because we now have busier and more complicated
lives and we don’t have the same time for His work
anymore? What have become our priorities? Don’t we
have the time, or can’t we make time?
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------JULY 23-26, TUES - FRIDAY - NAFAUM CONVOCATION
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
JULY 27, SATURDAY, 10:00 AM @ LITTLE CHAPEL
NEIGHBORHOOD IMMIGRATION /HEALTH CLINIC
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
JULY 28 - 10TH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
RUMC COMMUNITY OUTREACH MINISTRIES:
Let us continue to reach out to the less
fortunate brethren in our community
July 19, Friday, 1:00 pm --- Food Distribution @ Rosewood UMC
July 20, Sat., - Neighborhood Immigration
Clinic @ Chapel (10:00 am)
It is obviously not the intention of this editorial to
single out anyone. These are mere observations on how
some of the activities in our church have waned, with
some others that have not even taken flight. Yes, many
will argue that a church, like any other organization or
institution whether cleric or otherwise, will have its
“lows”, and it’s “valleys” and what-have-yous just like
the Lakers and Clippers seasons this year and like
many other major corporations that have lost
considerable revenue in the first 2 quarters of 2013.
However, these entities would be expected to recover
with a vengeance – but what about us, the church?
What are we to do about our situation? Like what they
call an “adjustment” or a “lull” in the in the stock
market, are we going through the same lull? Will we
make a full recovery as well and get back to the
ministry of not just maintaining our collective
ministries -- but going a step further? With the church
being the ‘House of God’, like any other house or home,
shouldn’t charity begin at home? And lastly, Pastor
David had posed a query, “… are we in labor?” and has
admonished us to, indeed, “be in labor for Christ”.
So, we ask ourselves, “are we able... still?”
August 2, Friday, 1:00 pm --- Food Distribution @ Rosewood Gardens
Community Center
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
Pilipino Bible Study/ Fellowship
Tuesday, 6:30 pm
Leader: Lita Fajardo
English Bible Study/ Fellowship
Thursday, 10:30 am
Leader: Emily Baradi
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
Let us all be gratefully aware and immensely
appreciative that we are blessed with the opportunity of
living in these United States of America at this
particular era of this earth’s history. The system may
be flawed and far from ideal but by collective
measurement, there is no better place on earth to be,
to exist and to thrive. – the Editor
8
IN LOVING MEMORY…
LEONOR ACAY BRAZAL
Panuhol para sa muntik nang mag-away na magpipinsan
o premyo kung mabait ka.
In high school, I remember how I would always come
home to her cooking a delicious dinner. Then, whenever
I came home from college, we would go to the 99 cent
store, and before I leave, she would give me some of her
Ensure, so I can gain weight. haha!
I remember how she loved her reader's digest. My other
fave is when she used to say, "ay! si Dade naman!" in a
certain way. haha. I admire how thoughtful she is, how
comforting and caring she is, her committment to church
and volunteer work, and her love of traveling. I'm sure
we're all grateful and blessed to have her as our grandma.
Medyo madaming fave memories…. nakakalungkot. I
feel like Dade and Mame were the bond, the glue that
kept us all together. Wan
Leonor Acay Brazal -- was born Dec. 9, 1917 to
Lucio Acay and Miguela Cawagas in San Narciso,
Zambales. She was the third of 5 children. Her
siblings were all teachers. Leonor who was called
Norie by her friends graduated from Mary Johnston
School of Nursing in 1940 and her Bachelor of
Science in Nursing at Manila Central University
(MCU). She was married to Aurelio Brazal in 1947
and have 4 children namely Jumilusa, Aunora,
Lincoln and Edilyn. Leonor was a nurse at the
National Children's Hospital in Quezon City for 35
years. She migrated to USA in 1986 after her
retirement as Asst. Chief Nurse at NCH. Leonor and
Aurelio had been members of Rosewood UMC ever
since they arrived here in LA. Leonor was also a
member of the Vesper group, attended church
retreats, church conferences like NAFAUM and
Mary Johnston school of Nursing. Leonor loved
traveling, cooking for her family, attending church
functions, and shopping but most importantly
reading books especially the Bible, Upper Room and
Daily Bread. Leonor and Aurelio decided to go back
home to the Philippines for good after 20 years here
in Los Angeles. They went home in 2005 to spend
time with family. In the Philippines, they were
members of the Kamuning First United Methodist
Church. Leonor was called by her Creator on April
24, 2013. Below are exchanges from her Apos:
-- Sa aming magpipinsan, hindi namin sya tinawag na
“Lola,” pero kilala namin sya bilang “La Nori, Mame,
Mama San.” Malaki ang pamilya namin. She and Dade
have 4 children, 15 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren
with two on the way, and 1 great great grandchild.
Imagine nyo kung gano karami ang memories namin sa
kanya --Ang favorite ni Lotus na memory is that Mame made the
best leche flan and fruit salad for parties. During our
Christmas eve celebrations, she also played mama-San
and she gave us 1 dollar bills for dancing for her and
Dade. Jason specifically remembers that Christmas day,
Mame even wore a Santa hat while giving us presents.
Kashie’s and Mika’s favorite memories are the same.
Kashie remembers that every time she saw Mame, Mame
would give her the longest kiss on the cheeks that seemed
like she was sniffing her face; and In a very soft and
loving voice, she 'd say "kumusta ka na, anak ko? Kumain
ka na ba?"
Mika said everytime nakikita sya ni Mame, parati syang
tinatanong kung kumain na sya kasi ang payat payat nya
daw. Kahit pagkatapos nya makita si Mika kumain sa
harap nya, pakakainin siya ulit.
For JonJon, his favorite memory is when he was in grade
2 and got sick with the flu. Mame made him tahong for
lunch and Jon had the appetite to eat kahit may sakit sya.
He remembers how caring and loving Mame was.
Talagang binusog nya kami sa pagmamahal.
(Continued on page 10)
--Hi Kashie, I have many fave memories of Mame
(Leonor, to her apos) so it's hard to name a few. I think
we cousins remember how she use to spoil us with Nips.
-- Unang una na siguro yung NIPS. Kahit anong oras o
araw, parati syang may NIPS sa cabinet o bag nya.
9
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
THE
GRADUATING
CLASS OF 2013
(Continued from Page 9… Leonor Acay Brazal)
-- Khalil remembers that when he was in prep, Mame
would fetch him from school every day, except Tuesdays,
because she had to go to church. Khalil said that he
looked forward to Mame fetching him because she always
arrived on time, unlike on Tuesdays when Tita Aunie
would arrive late.
PRE-KINDERGARTEN
Aidan Warren R. Voss – Tutor Time, Upland
--Sabi naman ni Lars, masaya si mame kung nakikita
niyang tuwang tuwa kaming mga apo nya.
ELEMENTARY
Angela Parungao – Hermosa Elementary School
(California Distinguished Sch.), Rancho Cucamonga
Honor Roll; President’s Award for Academic
Excellence
Tristan Pableo – 6th Grade, Alvarado Middle
School, Rowland Heights
Maria Clarissa B. Villarosa – Ambler Elementary
School, Gardena
Gifted Magnet; President’s Award for Academic
Excellence; Silver Honor Roll; Science Honor
Award; Language and Writing Honor Award;
Perfect Attendance Award
--We have other memories such as Mame’s favorite
Readers Digest, how much she loved to travel, and how
committed she was to church and volunteer work.
The most memorable one, though, is how much she
loved and stayed in-love with Dade. We celebrated that
love during their golden wedding anniversary, in every
family reunion we had, and every single day they were
together. Mame and Dade are the glue that held, and will
always hold, our big family together. No matter where
we all are, we have these memories to keep us connected.
Mame, thank you for everything that you lovingly did for
all of us. Ma-mimiss ka namin, pero naiintindihan namin
na kailangan nyo na magpahinga. Sana mapayapa ka na
sa piling ng Diyos.
MIDDLE SCHOOL
Lauren Marissa Mendoza – Eagle Rock Middle
School, Eagle Rock, Los Angeles
Gifted Magnet; Gold Seal High Honors, 4.0 GPA;
Recognition for Outstanding Performance in the Arts
and History
Johnny Ramos - 8th Grade, Daniel Webster Middle
School, Los Angeles
With High Honors, 4.0 GPA; Academic Excellence
David Tuazon – UCLA Community School, L. A.
Anthony Miguel Velicaria – Celerity Troika
Chartered School, Los Angeles
I spoke with Dade yesterday. He seemed to be taking it
well, good thing he has a strong faith. Kakaawa though.
I've never heard him cry before.
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
LET US HOLD OUR BEREAVED
BRETHREN IN OUR THOUGHTS
AND IN OUR PRAYERS:
To the Brazal family and the families of Jumi Adolfo
and Edilyn Ramos for the passing of their sister-inlaw, Lita Brazal last Tuesday, June 18, in the
Philippines. Lita is the wife of Jumi's and Edilyn's
brother, Lincoln Brazal. She succumbed from liver
cancer after having been diagnosed just a few weeks
after her mother in-law, Mrs. Leonor Brazal, had
passed away.
Let us hold the Brazal Family in our prayers during
their hour of bereavement.
JUNIOR HIGH
Matthew Parungao –Vineyard Junior High School
(California Distinguished School)
-Honor Roll
HIGH SCHOOL
Gerald Borje – Herbert Hoover High School,
Glendale
Johann Parungao – Los Osos High School, Rancho
Cucamonga
Samantha Flores – Herbert Hoover High School,
Glendale
Honor Roll student, 2 year varsity cheerleader; 1
year varsity track team; 3 years varsity volleyball
team; captain of the varsity volleyball team
Thomas Jefferson
My God! How little do my countrymen
know what precious blessings they are
in possession of, and which no other
people on earth enjoy!
10
UNITED METHODIST QUESTIONS
UNITED METHODIST ANSWERS
EXPLORING CHRISTIAN FAITH By F. Belton Joyner
Chapter 9. THEOLOGY
51). Why be concerned about theology?
United Methodists are concerned about theology because theology puts into focus our relationship with God.
There are numerous strands of theology; biblical theology; systematic theology; liberation theology;
philosophical theology; apocalyptic theology; ecological theology; feminist theology; black theology; process
theology; gay theology; neoorthodox theology; postmodern theology; existential theology; holiness theology;
womanist theology; mystical theology; narrative theology; men's theology; empirical theology - surely you can
find one in that list that you like!
To that bountiful inventory, United Methodists might add another: practical theology. John Wesley used the
term "practical divinity". We are concerned about theology because our theology shapes how we live our lives.
If one's theology does not transform one's life, that theology must be out of touch with the transforming God
revealed in Jesus Christ! United Methodist tradition is less about abstract theological thought and more about
life-changing theological reflection and declaration.
In sum, the United Methodist practical theology is that life is different because God is seeking to love us; after
all, Zacchaeus's life change when God found him (Like 19:1-10). Then, we love because we have first been
loved(I John 4:19). United Methodists are clear that love is not lonely; it finds social expression. (It finds
expression in relationships, in social justice, in dialogue). In The United Methodist Hymnal, one of the headings
for hymns draws on this traditional Wesleyan terminology: Social Holiness (hymns 425-450).
One of the memorable stories in United Methodist history recounts that Philip William Otterbein greeted Martin
Boehm with the powerful words Wir sind Bruder - "We are brethren!" That social nature of religion grew out
of theological perception that ultimately saw persons as brothers and sisters. It is no wonder, no coincidence,
that United Methodist people have established Social Principles, formal statements adopted by the General
Conference (see question 74) to express the practical implications of responding to the call to love everyone.
After all, God's prevenient grace has been given everyone so let the grace in me meet the grace in you!
The Social Principles (and a companion Book of Resolutions) address topics as wide-ranging as sexuality,
immigration, war, gambling, ecology, aging, racism, divorce, harassment, rural life, AIDS, suicide, tobacco,
alcohol, poverty, capital punishment, genetic research and property rights. That's only a sample list and not a
complete list!
United Methodist action (practical divinity) is an expression of a theology of grace, a practice of love, and a
commitment to share a glimpse of the coming reign of God. That's why theology is important.
Come thou long-expected Jesus, born to set thy people free;
from our fears and sins release us, let us find our rest in thee.
Israel's strength and consolation, hope of all the earth thou art;
dear desire of every nation, joy of every longing heart.
Another question: What is the difference between "doing good" and Christian Love"?
11
-- We have missed out on our YOUTH SUNDAYS which
have gone into hibernation (the last one was in 2012?).
The Youth fellowships and Bible studies after church no
longer existed for a while until about recently when
Bible Studies have been revived – again! Let us hope and
pray that it lingers and continues on this time around.
-- In the past few Christmases and Easters, instead of the
glorious full concerts or ‘Cantatas’ that we have had for
many years (which have become a tradition at RUMC),
we have now been subject to ‘half concerts’ or ‘semicantatas’ (4-5 songs). One of the causes of this slump, I
believe, is the deficiency in ‘practice time’. Ever since I
had joined the Choir in 1982, the Choir had always
practiced on Saturdays from 4-7 pm (3 full hours) with
dinner fellowship afterwards. In 2009, the Choir decided
to hold practices on Sunday afternoons instead because
of the parking problem we had at the time. However,
presently, with the Sunday rehearsal schedule now in
place, one of the pressing problems of the Choir is that
on Sundays, most of the Choir members are also
officers/members of the different committees or
ministries that hold their meetings at the same time as
Choir practice. Most of the time, these ‘multi-tasking’
members come late to practice (a lot of times, very late),
and therefore the Choir can only manage to practice “as a
WHOLE group” for only about 1-2 hours weekly as
compared to the full 3 solid hours during the Saturday
practices. Apparently, even after the Rosewood Gardens
was completed in 2010 and we now had our own parking
facility to curtail the parking problem we had back in
2009, only a few choir members are amenable to going
back to the Saturday practices of old (which the choir
had been doing for over 25 years). Have we, who once
committed our Saturday evenings to further the church’s
music ministry, become comfortable and complacent
with “commitment-free” Saturday afternoons/evenings
and have just let things go downhill over the years?
-- The recycling program of the Methodist Men which
was once an every-other-month affair (thus being able to
raise some monies for the different ministries of the
church) is now happening on a less than quarterly basis
in this first and second quarter of 2013. The bringing in
of recyclables by members have notably diminished as
well, and only a handful of the church’s UMM have been
left with doing this task.
(Continued on page 8)
Editorial ….
ARE YE ABLE (STILL?)
Wouldn’t you believe it – half the year has gone by and
we find the church in a situation that may seem
adequate for most but what I would consider ‘wanting’
to a certain point. The notion perhaps is that “it ain’t
broken, so why fix it?” My angle is that although it may
not seem “broken,” it certainly hasn’t been going that
well either. These are mere observations, nothing more.
Perhaps being unemployed and having ‘too much time
on my hands’, may have resulted in my having a closer
look at what’s actually going on in the church. Although,
I found out that some other members do share these
same observations and I’m not at all surprised. I must
establish, however, that all these aspects of our church
life are still on-going but have waned in one way or
another:
-- After some 5 years of having the “Under The Tree”
outreach event, 2013 is without the summer leg of the
bi-annual event. Lack of funding and the lack of the
“will” to put on the event in June (even though it be on a
smaller or lesser scale) has escaped us and somehow
distracted us to carry on with what we had committed to
do when we started out;
-- Prayer Breakfast fellowships, which once was one of
our stalwart ministries, have diminished in attendance
and enthusiasm among the church members. At times,
the bi-monthly activity is cancelled for other activities.
-- Our Sunday school (K-6) is short of a regular Sunday
teacher roster and has been operating merely on a
“whoever-is-available” basis;
ROSEWOOD UNITED
METHODIST CHURCH
4101 W. Rosewood Avenue
Los Angeles, California 90004
Tel: (323) 662-1194 Fax: (323) 662-6648
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.rosewoodumc.com
Office Days/Hours:
Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Bishop Minerva G. Carcano, Resident Bishop
Rev. Dr. Kathy M. Wilborn, District
Superintendent
Rev. Dr. David Meren Jamir, Senior Pastor
Romulo “Roy” Padilla, Pilipino Ministry
Nolita “Lita” Fajardo, Administrative Assistant
Erich Parungao, Choir Director
Morris Villarosa, Pianist/Organist
Vergilio “Ver” Fajardo, Custodian
12