April 2014 - Parish of the Lord of Divine Mercy

April 2014
Vol. 2 No. 2
PARISH PREPARES FOR LENT
Scripture which are
spoken by the priest
and the lay ministers
while administering the
imposition: “Repent,
and believe in the
Gospel” (Mk. 1:15)
and “Remember that
you are dust, and to
Stations of the Cross were being held both (left) inside the church and (right) dust you shall return.”
along the streets of the parish areas during all Fridays of Lent in preparation (Gn. 3:19)
Parish priest Rev.
for Holy Week.
Fr. Steven Zabala
challenged the PLDM faithful to “look at your
The Lenten season began anew in the
lives with the point of view of death,” for it is
Church’s liturgical calendar with the observance
there that true conversion takes place.
of Ash Wednesday last March 5, the first of 40
Parishioners were likewise encouraged to
days leading up to Holy Week which will start
participate in various devotional practices
on Palm Sunday, April 13.
during Lent, such as going through the
A day of fasting and abstinence, Ash
Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession)
Wednesday is traditionally marked by the
ahead of Holy Week, and attending the Stations
imposition of ashes on the forehead of the
of the Cross every Friday. The Schedule of
faithful as a visible sign of repentance for
Holy Week activities can be found in page 8.
our sins and a reminder of our own mortality.
Parishioners line up to receive ashes on their
Kyle Laluces, PLDM CommMin
Both are made evident in the words of Sacred
forehead from Fr. Steve on Ash Wednesday.
PLDM CELEBRATES 20-YEAR ODYSSEY IN ODYSSEY
By: Butch L. Junia, Former Editor, Daloy
“The book is an artifact that contains the experiences of the parish and its people.
The book is a love letter to future generations to beseech them to continue the work of
their community leaders. The book is a prayer because it is made up of words written in
gratitude and celebration…”
Ms. Camille dela Rosa, Deputy Executive
Director of the National Book Development
Board, summed up in those statements what the
PLDM coffee table book is about – gratitude,
renewal and mission -- in her review of the
Odyssey at the book launch on March 11, 2014.
According to Odyssey editor Me-Ann Cruz,
who is also the parish Formation Ministry
Coordinator, the book is a milestone publication
of PLDM to celebrate its 20th anniversary and
was conceived to chronicle PLDM’s journey
as a parish community. It looks back with
gratitude at the various initiatives and dedicated
service of the parish community workers and
its pastors and is meant to renew the fervour in
the community to continue what the pioneers
started as a community of disciples in the
Lord’s vineyard, she explained.
Former Claretian Publications Executive
Director Fr. James Castro, CMF who also
gave a book review of the Odyssey, recalled
how he was also part of the PLDM journey as
a deacon during the time when the Claretians
were supervising the Sikatuna Village
chapel. His review alluded to the
Homerian epic, The Odyssey and
compared the journey of Odysseus
(the main character) with the journey
of PLDM. The challenges faced by
Odysseus in combatting the various Left to right, Layout artist Kyle Laluces, Editor Me-Ann Cruz
many-headed monsters in his sea
and Managing Editor, Sylvia Posadas celebrate the fruits
voyage could be compared to the
of their hardwork and pose with Fr. Steve (3rd from left)
challenges that reared their ugly heads
after the book launch. Not in photo but also present at the
at the pastors during their pastorate
launch is the other Managing Editor, Gigi Viray.
at PLDM. But he ended with an
encouragement to both Fr. Steve and the
production of the book) as a birthday gift.
parish community to keep on with the journey,
This part of the launch was symbolic of the
heartstrong like Odysseus.
gift of PLDM to Fr. Steve and how he himself is
The book launch was held during the 47th
a gift to the parish, Ms Me-Ann noted.
birthday celebration of present PLDM pastor,
Fr. Steve, in turn, signed another copy of
Fr. Steven Zabala, the 6th in the line. Highlight
the book and presented it to Bishop Ongtioco
of the event was Ms Me-Ann Cruz and her
who received it and lauded Fr. Steve and the
Managing Editors, Gigi Viray and Sylvia
editorial team for the project, “it is a feat
Posadas, also the PPC Coordinator, presenting
to be able to come up with a book in seven
Fr. Steve the very first copy of the coffee table
months…” he said, referring to the Odyssey
book (signed by all those involved in the
(cont. on page 5).
Parish of the Lord of Divine Mercy
2
FROM THE PPC COORDINATOR
Financial Report on the Parish Pastoral Council (PPC) Funds:
Pastoral Fund and Construction Fund, as of December 31, 2013
By Sylvia Posadas, Coordinator, PPC
DALOY
Parish of the Lord of Divine Mercy
Maamo cor. Madasalin Sts., Sikatuna Vill. Q.C.
Tel. No. 921-3337; Fax No. 921-5622
www.pldm.ph
The Parish Pastoral Council, through the leadership of its Parish Priest,
Fr. Steven C. Zabala, is proud to present the Audited Financial Statement of
the PPC Funds as of December 31, 2013. Prudent use of funds, continuous
cash donations and savvy in finding generous donors to directly fund parish
activities resulted in a healthy financial condition for the parish by year-end
2013.
Below is the Audited Statement of Assets and Fund Balances for both
the Pastoral Fund and Construction Fund prepared by PPC Treasurer Tess
Molina as of December 31, 2013. For the complete Audited Financial
Statements that include the Statement of Receipts and other details thereof,
please see the parish office or PPC Treasurer Natalie Buenaventura.
PASTORAL FUND
ASSETS
Cash on hand and in bank
Receivable from PLDM
Investment – Bahay Pari Cooperative
TOTAL ASSETS
1,063,711.34
281,695.00
709,502.36
2,054,908.70
Sherry Palencia Verzola
Editor-in-Chief
Trish Braganza, Kyle Laluces,
Sammy Cuartero, Claire Guhit, Flor Junia
Edith Medina, Bong Rillo, Julian Rillo,
Evelyn Sevilla, Maiette Zee
Contributors
Alex Cordero, Milagros Lopez,
Chappy Mina, Julian Rillo, Evelyn Sevilla
Photographers
Kyle Laluces, Jeric Verzola
Graphic Artists
Fr. Steven C. Zabala
Sylvia F.V. Posadas, Butch L. Junia
Sherry P. Verzola
Editorial Board
Daloy is published by The Parish of the Lord of Divine Mercy for its parishioners,
friends and supporters. Daloy accepts editorial and material contributions,
subject to the editorial policies and other limitations on space. Send editorial
materials to [email protected]. Other contributions may be sent
directly to the Parish Office, Attention Daloy. Download Daloy at www.pldm.ph
==========
LIABILITY AND FUND BALANCES
LIABILITY
Payable to DMA
5,805.00
TOTAL LIABILITY
5,805.00
Note from the editor
FUND BALANCES
Parish Pastoral Fund
Beg. Bal., 01/01/13
946,343.65
Excess of Receipts over Disbursements
478,295.05
I can’t read! My eyes are failing me! And I have two days to finish
Parish Pastoral Fund Balance, 12/31/13
1,424,638.70
editing Daloy. Will it go to the press?
Laity be brave
Fiesta Fund
Beg Bal., 01/01/13
Receipts – Bingo & Souvenir Program
Receipts – Raffle Bonanza
Disbursements
Excess of Receipts over Disbursements
Fiesta Fund Balance, 12/31/13
240,695.00
496,270.00
(112,500.00)
383,770.00
624,465.00
Trusting in the Lord’s guidance, I called Kyle Laluces. “Help,” I
said. And ever-helpful, Kyle replied, “Don’t worry, Tita Sherry, I’ll
be your eyes; I’ll do the photos.”
“Help,” I cried to Butch Junia, and our erstwhile editor said, “Don’t
worry Sherry, I will be your eyes; I’ll finalize the articles.”
And so, dear friends in Christ, Daloy is out. Trusting in His Mercy,
The Lord made me see that it can be done, through others’ eyes.
This issue comes as Lent and the Feast of the Divine Mercy
TOTAL FUND BALANCES
2,049,908.70
approaches. In these two major parish events, the laity – ordinary
TOTAL LIABILITY AND FUND BALANCES
2,054,908.70
parishioners like you and me – will again be deeply involved. In
==========
times like these, the support of the laity is much needed in all facets,
CONSTRUCTION FUND
including planning, organizing, implementing and, yes, funding the
long list of activities. As Bong Rillo mentioned in his article, Saints
ASSETS
and Heroes for Others, we are called to be brave and share in Christ’s
Cash in bank – BPI SA 1953-1096-69
970,070.12
mission of spreading the Word of God.
Cash in bank – BPI USD SA 1954-0327-91
111,969.42
Investment – Bahay Pari Cooperative
7,126,673.89
Many workers for Christ have experienced obstacles which
TOTAL ASSETS
8,208,713.43
make us slow down or even quit serving the Lord. Health, family,
==========
relationships, work, and even plain weariness – these bear heavily on
FUND BALANCE
the laity. But many still choose to be brave and persevere, providing
Beg. Bal., 01/01/13
3,140,072.49
much-needed support to each other, and to the priests and nuns in
Excess of Receipts over Disbursements
5,068,640.94
our midst.
TOTAL FUND BALANCE
8,208,713.43
May we answer the call to be brave, and let the Saint in each of us
=========
come out. Sherry Verzola
Parish of the Lord of Divine Mercy
3
Saints and heroes for others
By Bro. Bong Rillo
The leaders of the Church in our country
have indeed recognized the valuable
contributions of ordinary people in its lifejourney of faith.
From all walks of life, people are ‘called to
take courage and be the change in the society
we live in.’
Declaring 2014 as The Year of the
Laity was a symbolic as well as a realistic
acknowledgement not only of the physical
but also the spiritual capacity of lay people
to make a difference in the life of the Church
and of the nation.
Challenged by the prospects of sharing in
Christ’s mission on earth of spreading the Truth
through words and actions, the laity has been
entrusted with this unprecedented opportunity
to daringly reach out to most of our brethren
who may be in need of our love and help.
Everyday acts of love are called to be
given to 12 sectors of society, namely: Nonpracticing Catholics; Troubled friends; Young
professionals; Government employees; Broken
families; Civic organizations; The homeless
and jobless; Public school teachers; The
homebound and prisoners; Indigenous people;
Farmers, fisher folks and labourers; and, Lay
saints and Catholic Filipino heroes.
As stressed by His Excellency Bishop
Honesto Ongtioco during the launching of
the Year of the Laity last January 25, 2014:
“The fullness of our life can be attained when
we act out of Love. Love shall become our
strength, a banner that many others would
rally behind. We have been tasked to seek
the Truth, to speak the Truth, but more than
anything, to act and live it in our daily lives,
powered by Love.”
Love shall move us to take up the challenge
to be brave Saints and Heroes for others.
Stewardship is not an option;
It is a way of living
Mga flyers, booklets at bookmarks na
pinamigay ng mga kongregasyon ng
madre
Bokasyon ng pagmamadre
isinulong
Nagkaroon ng information dissemination
tungkol sa bokasyon ng pagmamadre sa
Vicariate of St. Joseph sa pangunguna ni
Fr. Gilbert Dumlao, ang Diocesan Director
of Vocational Ministry at dating dekano ng
PLDM. Ito ay ginawa pagkatapos ng Misang
pinangunahan ni Fr. Gilbert noong Peb. 16.
Sa misang iyon, maraming madreng galing sa
iba’t ibang kongregasyon ang dumalo.
Pagkatapos ng Misa, ang mga madre ay
namigay ng flyers na may impormasyon
tungkol sa kanilang mga kongregasyon,
mga booklets na naglalaman ng kuwentong
buhay ng kanilang founders, at bookmarks
na may laman na mga quotes galing sa
kanilang founders. Sammy Cuartero, PLDM
CommMin
Our parish had an Orientation on the
Spirituality of Stewardship last March 1,
2014 with Rev. Fr. Ronnie Santos as resource
speaker. It was held at the Church.
Stewardship is one of four (4) pastoral
priorities Fr. Steven Zabala has envisioned for
PLDM. The other three (3) are: devotion to the
Divine Mercy, Basic Ecclesial Communities
(BEC) and construction of a pastoral center.
In opening the program, Fr. Steve said that
the Parish needs to grasp the real meaning of the
spirituality of stewardship in order to effectively
offer its time, talent and treasure back to the
Lord. He said that Fr. Ronnie has successfully
implemented the Stewardship Program in his
parish and is thus a much sought-after lecturer
on the subject.
In his presentation, Fr. Ronnie emphasized
that stewardship is one of the major themes
of the Scriptures as he noted Genesis 1:1 and
Corinthian 6:20; 3:23, where it is shown that
“we do not own anything, not even ourselves,
that we simply administer His possessions and
are thus, accountable to Him.”
‘Stewardship’, according to Fr. Ronnie,
means “management of a household” which
implies that stewards manage or administer
possessions but do not own them. They oversee
the possessions of the owner, and in our case,
God owns us and everything that we have.
Our stewardship, he explained, encompasses
our God-given gifts: our time, talent and
treasure which we must offer back to God and
use in His honor.
Fr. Ronnie noted that at present, the world
is confronted by a rising culture of selfishness
and corruption thus it is time to step up and let
the spirit of stewardship define our lifestyle and
promote our relationship with God.
The talk was divided into the three aspects
or forms of stewardship: Time, Talent and
Treasure.
Stewardship of time teaches us to prioritize
and use our time wisely as we need to have
time for God, the Church, and our community.
According to Fr. Ronnie, we should plan our
days and be productive, and start each day with
a prayer to God, our Father, like Jesus did.
God made each one of us unique and
everyone has a God-given talent, Fr. Ronnie
reminded the parishioners, as he also enjoined
them not to hide but instead share their talents.
In serving God, he said, we should do it with
love and devotion and let it be our way of
saying, ‘Thank you God.’”
On the stewardship of treasure, Fr. Ronnie
warned that while money is a good servant, it
can be a bad master and improperly handled,
it could be a big hindrance in our relationship
with God and with each other. People fight
because of money. We should understand, he
stressed, that treasure only follows time and
talent thus we should focus on finding God
first before treasure. Remember that when the
time comes, God will deal with us individually
on how we became His good and responsible
stewards, he added.
One may ask why there is a need to be
generous; why the need to share or give time,
talent and treasure. The speaker had the answer:
the act of giving glorifies God, builds up our
faith in Him and is a perpetual investment.
Summing up, Fr. Ronnie said, “Stewardship
is not an option. It is a way of living.”
It promotes sharing, deepens our love for
each other and leads us to the path of Holiness.
Stewardship is a lifetime vocation and mission,
he concluded.
The parish will implement a Stewardship
Program this year. Fr. Steve has designated Sis.
Baybee de Vera assisted by Sis. Mel Castro
to spearhead the program. In preparation,
they are organizing a core group of at least
10 people to conceptualize and plan program
implementation. Trish Braganza, PLDM
CommMin
Parish of the Lord of Divine Mercy
4
Fr.
47
Steven
turns
A special celebration was held last March 11
to mark the 47th birthday and 18th sacerdotal
anniversary of PLDM’s parish priest, Fr.
Steven Zabala.
Mass was the first order of the day. Concelebrants
included resident guest priest Fr. Harren Salon, former
parish priest Fr. Gigi Yabut, former assistant parish
priest Fr. Bong Tupino, the Diocesan Vicar General
Msgr. Daniel Sta. Maria, and the Bishop of Cubao, Most
Rev. Honesto Ongtioco. Also joining in the celebration
were parishioners from his previous assignments, close
relatives and friends, as well as various members of the
PLDM community.
At the Village Patio where a simple dinner was served,
PLDM’s milestone publication, Odyssey, was also officially
launched. Originally conceived as a souvenir program for the
parish’s 20th Fiesta, Fr. Steve opted instead for a coffee-table
book that would chronicle the 20-year history of the parish
from its humble roots as a makeshift chapel to the vibrant
community that has sprung up today. Fr. Steve received an
autographed copy of Odyssey as a birthday gift, after which
he signed copies for the Bishop, his friend and former
PLDM parish priest Fr. Ronald Macale, and the first five
parishioners who purchased the book. (See related story
on p. 1)
of Asin), the Senior Citizens and “Junior
Citizens” (the youth) of the parish. The
“surprise” performance of a medley of
Beatles and other old favorites came from
an ensemble of the Cubao clergy,
including Fr. Steve, Fr. Harren, Fr.
Choi Garcia, Fr. Gelo Parlan, Fr.
Louie Caupayan, and Bishop
Ongtioco himself. Kyle
Laluces, PLDM CommMin
Performers at the dinner included the Tres Marias
(the trio of renowned OPM divas Bayang Barrios,
Cookie Chua of Color It Red, and Lolita Carbon
A simple 18TH
Fr. Steve celebrated his 18th Sacerdotal
Anniversary last March 18 with a Street Mass
and enthronement of the Divine Mercy image in
Botocan. A simple salu-salo was later enjoyed
with his well-wishers, led by PPC Coordinator
Sylvia Posadas.
During his homily, he looked back to that day,
18 years ago, when he cried on his ordination.
He cried because he realized that it would not
be easy to be a shepherd of His flock. But, he
said, he was strengthened by the fact that it was
also the Feast of the Annunciation and, like
Mama Mary, he declared: “Let it be done to me
according to Thy word.”
Now, Fr. Steve says he finds joy in tending
to His flock, wherever he is assigned. He is
heartened when he, sometimes, hears people
say, “We see Jesus in you.” This makes him feel
that he is doing things right.
At the conclusion of his homily, Fr. Steve
appealed to everyone to “always pray for me,
so that His will, will be done in me.”
Fr. Steve addresses the community at Botocan in his homily during his 18th sacerdotal anniversary.
Parish of the Lord of Divine Mercy
5
PLDM parishioners on a pre-Holy Week pilgrimage
More than 200 pilgrims from PLDM
travelled to the historic province of
Bulacan to visit three (3) famous
churches there: The National Shrine of
the Divine Mercy, the Barasoain Church
and the Malolos Cathedral (Basilica
Minore). This was organized by the
Divine Mercy Apostolate or DMA
to propagate and strengthen spiritual
awareness of God’s love and mercy.
First stop was the Divine Mercy
Shrine in Marilao where they were
given time to tour the place, after
which they attended the Healing Mass
concelebrated by Fr. Roger Cruz, parish
priest of the Shrine and Fr. Steve Zabala.
In the afternoon, the pilgrims
proceeded to Barasoain Church in
Malolos City – the seat of the first
Philippine Republic. The group also
visited the Museum there, where a short
presentation was made on the convening
of the first Philippine Congress,
the drafting of the Malolos
Constitution and the inauguration
of the first Philippine Republic.
Going south of the city,
the group visited the Malolos
Cathedral which served as the
Presidential Palace of Pres.
Emilio Aguinaldo during the
first
Philippine
government.
Of significance is the Kalayaan
Tree located in the patio of the
Cathedral. This tree is a living
witness to the Malolos Republic.
Under the tree is a monument
that symbolizes the meeting of
Filipino revolutionaries led by
Gregorio del Pilar.
Homewards, the tired but
fulfilled pilgrims made a short
stop at Eurobake to buy goodies
for pasalubong. Claire Guhit,
DMA
The PLDM pilgrims, led by Fr. Steve, pose for a picture with Fr.
Alvin Pila – the Assistant Parish Priest of the Divine Mercy Shrine in
Marilao, Bulacan after the Healing Mass there.
Pilgrims to the Holy Land
The pilgrims at Petra, Jordan, on the second day of their pilgrimage at the Holy Land
Odyssey... (cont. from page 1.)
which was originally meant to be just a 2013
fiesta souvenir program that evolved into a
book.
One unique feature of the book is the second
part that traces the 20-year history of the
parish as seen through the eyes of the pastors
themselves. Former parish priests gave an
account of the highlights and challenges of
their pastorate. This, Ms Me-Ann the editor
explained, gave a very human dimension to the
historical account of PLDM because, “it gave
us a glimpse of what they went through when
they were here. It is like walking with them
anew in the halls of PLDM even when they
have already moved elsewhere.”
But it had its downside, she warned. The
tricky thing with that format is that sometimes
memories get fogged or a little mixed up as with
the case of Fr. Clem, whose rote recollection
had confused Sis Melinda Cruz, Worship
Coordinator, with Sis. Clare Guhit, the PPC
Secretary in his time.
All told, however, Odyssey remains a
faithful, elegant and engaging account of the
PLDM faith journey.
Other parts of the book include reflections on
the devotion to the Divine Mercy from different
perspectives. It also includes an interview
with the present parish priest on his plans and
Five (5) PLDM parishioners joined Fr. Steve
and 10 others on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land
last Feb. 19. The five ladies - Dorie Abadilla,
Mina Penano, Menchu Cammayo and her two
daughters, Chiqui and Rina - braved the long
walks through winding terrain to experience
the places that Jesus passed through in His
earthly life. They visited, among others, the
Jordan River, the Dead Sea, Mt. of Temptation,
Nazareth, Sea of Galilee, and walked along the
Via Dolorosa in Bethlehem.
The pilgrims all agreed that they had a deeply
touching, religious experience, as they passed
though Jordan and Israel. Sis. Menchu cited Fr.
Steve’s presence as one of the success factors,
because he was “well-organized, patient
and very knowledgeable” about the places
they visited. Sis. Mina said Fr. Steve always
celebrated Mass and guided them through the
reflections for the day. Sis. Dorie said that the
whole experience “deepened my relationship
with the Lord and made me feel ready to face
life’s continuing struggles.”
dreams and the initial steps he has undertaken
very early in his pastorate in achieving these
plans. The last part of the book serves as the
souvenir program of the 2013 PLDM fiesta, a
scintillating twist, considering that this project
started out as a cut-and-dried souvenir program.
If you want to get a copy of the
Odyssey, you may inquire at the parish
office or from the Finance Committee
members stationed at the entrance of the
church on Sundays. The book sells for
P1,000 per copy.
Parish of the Lord of Divine Mercy
6
The images of the Divine Mercy are blessed before they are distributed to the homes.
Divine Mercy homes increase as weekly Enthronements
continue
The number of homes where Divine Mercy
images have been enthroned continued to
increase in January to April as more parishioners
accepted the enthronement in their homes.
The latest additions include the following:
Jan. 28 (Malaya) – Ingen dela Cerna, Cynthia
Baylon, Tonette Ferrer, Jean Telan, Rosalie
Yanga and Evelyn Sukyawan; Feb. 4 (Lambak)
– Marilou Lamela, Rosario Bautista, Toto
Sophia, Rachel Bating, Casimira Cabusura,
Carmen Eclarin and Nerry Tabuso; Feb. 8
(Malaya) – Lopez, Gerona, Salva, Lualhati,
Fegarido, Paderon and Jose families; Feb 18
(Bliss II) – Lily Sandoval, Lee Jimenez, Nerissa
Garcia, Emy Janillo, Grace Cadungog, Noni
de Vera and Nida Pangan; Feb. 25 (Sikatuna)
– Lourdes Mendoza, Narciso Tadeo, Gloria
Coronel, Florante Gato, Renato Ampil and
Jessie de Mesa; March 18 (Pook Libis) - Hazel
Pena, Marivic Paloma, Bing Goze, Imelda
Torres, Tessie Plando, Sally Cipres, Marilou
Pena and Ricky Prado; March 25 (Botocan
Area 6) Leonida Ramos, Elvie Macalde,
Jennifer Soliva, Annunciacion Lugana, Charlita
Geronimo, Nelly Ragos, Evelyn Sevilla and
Amy Almene; April 1 (Malaya) Rosario
Manere, Eva Forton, Buddy Franco, Aida
Ipapo, Laurence del Prado, Joseph Chuacoco
and Norma Enriquez.
At the enthronement, the new Divine
Mercy households are presented a Memento
Kit containing the 11” x 7” Image, the DM
Message and Devotion Booklet, the Blessing
and Enthronement Prayer, the Holy Octave
of Consecration to God our Father, the Holy
Rosary, Prayer for Healing, and other devotional
guides and tokens.
For their part, the families are encouraged
to recite the DM Chaplet and the Holy Rosary
daily, make regular confession and attend
Sunday Masses and other Holy Days of
obligation.
The PLDM Divine Mercy Apostolate is
presently headed by Sis. Maiette Zee Se Ki,
assisted by Bro. Rudy Ferrer and Sis. Claire
Guhit.
Since the reactivation of the apostolate,
every Tuesday of the week has been designated
as Enthronement Day except for the second
week of the month, when it is held on
Saturdays. A Holy Mass is celebrated as part of
the enthronement rites and the presiding priest
blesses the families as they receive the Lord of
Divine Mercy into their households.
Parish families interested in enthroning the
Lord of Divine Mercy in their homes may get
in touch with the DMA officers or their area
coordinators for the initial screening and for
proper briefing on the Divine Mercy apostolate
and devotion.
Coop holds general assembly; new officers elected
attended the meeting, presided over by Coop
Chair Teress Cordero.
Mr. Fernando Laquindanum of the
Cooperative Development Authority graced the
occasion. He gave a short talk on cooperativism,
focusing on the responsibility of each member
to regularly increase his/her share capital and
to support the coop activities. These, he said,
would ensure the continuous and healthy
operation of the coop.
The annual election of the Board of Directors
was also held. Four Directors were elected to fill
up the positions vacated due to term limitations
and resignation. Elected were: former 20102011 Coop Chair Sherry Verzola; former 2012
Coop Vice Chair Eva Forton; former Coop
General Manager Rollin Querijero; and former
Coop Legal Officer Atty. Rachel Locsin. They
now compose the 2014 Board along with
incumbent Directors, 2013 Chair Cordero, Flor
Junia and Dolly Quines.
The new Board elected the 2014 Chair and
Vice Chair from among themselves: Chair Eva
Forton and Vice Chair Sherry Verzola.
purpose Hall last March 23. Around 200
medical and 50 dental patients were attended
to.
Generous with their time
and talent were five volunteer
doctors: the mother-and-son
tandem of Dr. Grace Valledor
and Dr. Allan Valledor; Dr. Zeny
Acuna; Dr. Jocelyn Franco,
wife of PPC-FinComm head Dr.
Buddy Franco; and Dr. Corazon
Balod.
There were also four volunteer
dentists: Dr. Boy Montok; Dr.
Teresa De Los Santos; Dr.
Parish volunteers tend to the medical and dental needs of our Rolando Halili; and Dr. Kriz Mae
brothers and sisters who came to the outreach mission of the Panganiban.
SSDM at Barangay Botocan.
Volunteer
nurses
and
pharmacists and the SSDM core group, together
with the Botocan Area Pastoral Council headed
by Coordinator Cora Villarante, helped in the
site preparation, screening and registration of
patients and the overall conduct of the med
mission.
Still part of its service mandate, the SSDM
conducted a “Bantay Kalusugan” wellness
program at the Parish Annex last March 15,
serving a total of 188 parishioners and nonparishioners. For a minimal fee of P290.00,
services like urinalysis, ECG and blood
chemistry tests were provided.
Meanwhile, on April 12, SSDM thru Bell
Kernz Pharmaceuticals, held another free clinic
at the Parish Annex, providing free packages,
including ECG and blood screening. Flor
Junia, SSDM
The Parish of the Lord of Divine Mercy
Multi-purpose Cooperative held its Annual
General Assembly last March 29 at the parish
Annex. More than 60 cooperator-members
The Social Service and Development
Ministry (SSDM) held its bi-monthly free
Medical/Dental Mission at the Botocan Multi-
Parish of the Lord of Divine Mercy
7
The Candle Makers of PLDM
As early as 221 BC, the Chinese were
already making candles out of whale fat.
They became popular in Europe during the
13th century using fat from cows or sheep.
The main purpose of candles then was to light
homes and streets. They were also used for
ritual purposes such as funerals and religious
activities. The introduction of kerosene lamps
and the invention of the incandescent light bulb
resulted in the decline of candle manufacturing.
Candles became more of decorative items
rather than a necessity.
Nearer to home, the year 2002 saw the birth
of the candle making project of the parish. Sis.
Sherry Verzola, encouraged by the eagerness
of some members of the PLDM Parents of
Scholars or POS, put up the seed money and
gathered a group of parents to start this small
business. They attended a seminar on candle
making, and a core group of seven parents
buckled down to work under the supervision
of another parent, Sis. Cora Cruz. Then parish
priest, Fr. Ronald Macale, supported them by
purchasing the tea lights and vigil candles for
the church.
The former Bahay Pagmamahal along
Madasalin Street was the first site of
production. After Bahay Pagmamahal was sold,
Sis. Sherry’s house became the candle making
workshop. Today, the workshop is located at
Sis. Flor Junia’s residence along Maamo Street.
At the start, used wax from the UP Chapel
was sourced, melted and remolded into tea
lights, the small red candles on the candle racks
near the church entrance. After a while, they
bought new wax and added tapered candles
used for processions and feasts. There was even
a demand for decorative scented candles.
PLDM celebrates three feast days in February
Fr. Harren Salon conducted the blessing of the throats during
the Feast of St. Blaise.
St. Pedro Calungsod: young lay martyr
By Julian Rillo
Pedro Calungsod was a teenage native of the Visayas. He was among
the first to serve in the Mission organized by St. Diego Luis de San
Vitores, SJ, in the Marianas on June 16, 1668.
As a skilled sacristan and teacher of catechism, he became a
companion of St. Diego to the islands.
Through their efforts, many received the Sacraments, especially that
of Baptism. But a Chinese named Choco, a criminal exiled to Guam from
Manila, started spreading rumors that the water they used in baptism
was poisonous. At about that time, some sickly Chamorro infants died
after baptism and the stories began to gain ground with the natives.
Apparently jealous of the growing influence of the missionaries, the
Chamorro macanjas or medicine men fanned the rumors and plotted to
circulate the false accusations.
Candle making gave the workers a
decent allowance and provided POS
sufficient income to buy additional school
supplies for the scholars. They sold an
average of 1,000 tea lights weekly, aside
from decorative candles.
Unfortunately, the demand for candles
has now declined. Former patrons are now
buying from malls or making their own.
Tea light sales are now down to barely
500 pieces. When asked whether candle
making is a dying project, Sis. Cora - feisty
and spirited - declared that every business
has its ups and downs. The business will
surely bounce back, she says. She takes pride in
the efforts of her fellow parents and the quality
of their candles which she said is better and
lasts longer than a popular brand. She cites the
need to have a permanent workshop and sees
the potential of decorative candles. She also
suggests a display area where customers could
view the products.
Let us light a candle for the special intentions
of our candle makers. They have stood the test
of time. Edith Medina, Bliss 1.
PLDM celebrated three feast days in February – the Feast
of the Celebration of the Lord and Candelaria, the Feast of St.
Blaise, and the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes.
The Feast of the Celebration of the Lord and Candelaria
fell on February 2. On that day, candles were blessed after
every mass. Those who did not bring candles bought from
the Parents of Scholars who sold hand-made candles at the
church entrance.
This commemoration was followed by the celebration of
the Feast of St. Blaise on February 3. St. Blaise is a patron
of throat maladies. On his feast day, two candles were
consecrated then held in a crossed position by the priest on
the throat of the parishioners. This blessing of the throats was
done after the 6am and 6pm Masses.
Lastly, PLDM celebrated the Feast of Our Lady of
Lourdes last February 11. Our Lady of Lourdes is the title
given to the Virgin Mary after her apparitions in Lourdes,
France to St. Bernadette Soubirous. In preparation for the
Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, the Parish had Triduum Prayers
from February 8 to 10. And on the feast day, at the 6pm Mass,
Fr. Harren blessed the image of Our Lady of Lourdes in front
of the altar. Trish Braganza, CommMin
Accounts of Calungsod’s and San Vitores’ martyrdom show how they
were both murdered after baptizing an infant child of a village chief by a
mother already converted to the Catholic faith. The father, furious at the
baptism in his absence, attacked the missionaries. Choosing to stand by
St. Diego San Vitores despite the chance to escape and save himself, St.
Pedro Calungsod received a fatal blow to the head and a spear in his chest.
St. Diego was killed, too. Their bodies were later stripped and thrown to
the sea.
The late Pope John Paul II beatified Pedro Calungsod on March 5, 2000,
while Pope Benedict XVI canonized him on October 21, 2012.
St. Pedro Calungsod was martyred on April 2, 1672, a Saturday just before
Palm Sunday. For this reason, his feast is celebrated on the said date. When
that day falls within the Holy Week, during which no feasts of saints may be
observed, the feast is celebrated on the Saturday before Palm Sunday, or on
the Saturday of the fifth week of Lent. Julian Rillo, CommMin
Parish of the Lord of Divine Mercy
8
HOLY WEEK SCHEDULE
11 April
6:30 pm
VIERNES DE DOLORES
Scriptural Stations of the Cross
18 April
GOOD FRIDAY
Celebration of the Lord’s Passion
13 April
7:30 am
PALM SUNDAY
Solemn Procession & Blessing of Palms
St. Faustina Hall
3:00 pm
5:00 pm
Veneration of the Cross
Divine Mercy Novena (Day 1)
Procession of Santo Entierro
Blessing of Palms Before Every Mass
19 April
5:30 pm
7:30 pm
HOLY SATURDAY
Divine Mercy Novena (Day 2)
Easter Vigil Mass
14 April
HOLY MONDAY
7am-5:30am Pabasa
St. Faustina Hall
15 April
6:30 pm
HOLY TUESDAY
Kumpisalang Bayan
16 April
6:30 pm
HOLY WEDNESDAY
Parish-wide Stations of the Cross
17 April
6:00 am
5:00 pm
HOLY THURSDAY
Chrism Mass
Cubao Cathedral
Mass of the Lord’s Supper
Transfer of the Blessed Sacrament
Adoration & Vigil
20 April
EASTER SUNDAY
4:00 am
Salubong Procession
Assembly:
Bliss 1 – Risen Christ
Malaya – Virgin Mary
MASS
Front of Church
6:00 pm
Divine Mercy Novena (Day 3)
(No 6:00 AM Mass; Other Mass Schedules follow)
21st PLDM FIESTA SCHEDULE
21 April 5:30 pm
6:00 pm
EASTER MONDAY
Divine Mercy Novena (Day 4 )
Novena Mass
8:00 pm
Cultural Night
Maamo cor. Madasalin Sts.
Fireworks Display
22 April
10am-5pm 5:30 pm
6:00 pm
EASTER TUESDAY
Continuous Chaplet Recitation
Divine Mercy Novena (Day 5)
Novena Mass
23 April
5:30 pm
6:00 pm
EASTER WEDNESDAY
Divine Mercy Novena (Day 6)
Novena Mass
24 April 5:30 pm
6:00 pm
EASTER THURSDAY
Divine Mercy Novena (Day 7)
Novena Mass
27 April
5:00 am
12:00 nn
1:00 pm
3:00 pm
25 April 5:30 pm
6:00 pm
8:00 pm
EASTER FRIDAY
Divine Mercy Novena (Day 8)
Novena Mass
Bingo Night
Maamo cor. Madasalin Sts.
DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY
Fun Run
Maamo cor. Madasalin Sts.
Drum and Lyre
Salu-salo sa Parokya
Maamo cor. Madasalin Sts.
Pampamilyang Palarong Pinoy
Maamo cor. Madasalin Sts.
Divine Mercy Prayer
Chanting, Divine Mercy Chaplet
Prayer for the Canonization of Pope
John XIII and Pope John Paul II
Fiesta Mass
Bishop Teodoro Bacani
Procession
Blessing of Divine Mercy Images
Fiesta Dinner
26 April
7:30 am
9:00 pm
5:30 pm
6:00 pm
EASTER SATURDAY
Divine Mercy Conference
Confession, Annex
Divine Mercy Novena (Day 9)
Novena Mass
4:00 pm
5:00 pm
7:00 pm
10:00 am-12:00 nn & 3:00 pm-5:00 pm – Confession
6:00 am, 8:00 am, 10:30 am, 4:00 pm, 6:30 pm, 8:00
pm – Regular Masses
03 May
10:00 am
Saturday
Kumpilang Bayan
JESUS, I TRUST
IN YOU!