Volume III, Number 10 January 16 - March 16, 2015lamdagcdo@live.com | ascacdo@gmail.com see on page 2

POPE FRANCIS/ 8

UNDERSTANDING THE/ 3

by Sr. Teresita C. Espina, FSPPope Francis challenged the 6 million people at Luneta, when he told them to be true to their vocation: to be witnesses and missionaries

Pope Francis: Filipinos are called to be outstanding missionaries of faith in Asia

Abp. Antonio J. Ledesma SJ, DD shakes hands with Pope Francis

Atty. Anna Basman

of the joy of the Gospel in Asia and in the whole world. Bishop Villegas accepted the Popes challenge for the Filipinos to be messengers of faith, as light of Jesus for Asia and the world. Cardinal Tagle assured the pontiff that everyone is willing to follow him in the peripheries: to the shanties, prison cells, hospitals, in

politics, finance, arts, sciences, culture, education and social communications.Archbishop Antonio J. Ledesma, SJ,DD, led the 210 delegation to the Papal visit in Manila, composed of priests, religious, families, youth and representatives from different ministries of the archdiocese. Pope Francis met the bishops, priests and religious and seminarians at the Manila Cathedral and reminded them of their vocation to renew their love for the pastoral ministry. He invited the religious to relive the newness of the Gospel by living in ever closer union with the Lord in perfect charity.

He also said that they have to live lives that reflect the poverty of Christ. For only by becoming poor

ourselves, by stripping away our complacency, will we be able to identify with the least Fr. Willy Tuquib and Fr. Jobel Gulisao at Manila Cathedral

Fr. Paul Glynn SSC

Interfaith MinistryOn January 27, 2015, in the midst of the most immense feelings of sorrow, anger and shock at the appalling atrocity that occurred in Mamasapano, Maguindanao, just two days previously, an audience of over 230 participants gathered in Patrick Cronin Hall to listen to a member of the Government Negotiating Panel with the MILF, Attorney Anna Basman, give a thorough explanation of the content and the issues

surrounding the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).The gathering of the Lumad, Muslim, Catholic and Protestant religious leaders of Cagayan de Oro, as well as students and teachers from the city high schools and colleges, representatives from local government, the PNP, the AFP and other concerned citizens, was organized jointly by the Interfaith Forum for Peace, Harmony and Solidarity, Xavier University Research and Social Outreach Office and the Social Action Desk of the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro. The program opened with the observation of one minute of silence to honor those who

Understanding the Bangsamoro Basic Law

Archbishop Ledesma Leads CDO Delegation

Christian Tradition and

Religious Freedom

This year, the St. Augustine Metropolitan Cathedral in Cagayan de Oro will host a series of talks to mark the Year of the Poor, which the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines declared started on November 23, 2014. This was declared to underscore the

St. Augustine Cathedral Launches Program for the Year of the Poor

Churchs great concern for the needs of the poorer members of the society.Msgr. Perseus Cabunoc, Metropolitan Cathedral Rector, said that the Parish Spiritual Nourishment Program (PSNP) which is designed to reach out ST. AUGUSTINE/ 8

Archbishops PageLAMDAGJanuary 16 - March 16, 2015

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Abp. Antonio J. Ledesma, SJ

Previous speakers have pointed out the common meaning of the words, Shalom for Jews and Salaam for Muslims as signifying Peace. We can also include Salamat for Filipinos as coming from the same root word. Whenever we give thanks we also invoke the peace of God on the other. And this is perhaps best expressed when we respect the religious freedom of everyone in the world today.I. Religious Freedom in the mid-twentieth century In 1948, after the widespread ravages of the Second World War, the United Nations solemnly issued the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Among these rights was the right to freedom of religion: Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion; this right includes freedom to change his religion or belief, and freedom, either alone or in community with others and in public or private, to manifest his religion or belief in teaching, practice, worship and observance. (Article 18) In 1963, Saint Pope John XXIIIs encyclical, Pacem in Terris (Peace on Earth) reiterated this right to worship God according to ones conscience. This was addressed not only to the Catholic Church but also to all people of goodwill. And in 1965, at the conclusion of the Second Vatican Council of the Catholic Church, the Council Fathers issued the Declaration on Religious Freedom (Dignitatis Humanae). Two other documents of Vatican II complement the Churchs teaching on religious freedom: Gaudium et Spes (Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern World) and Nostra Aetate (Declaration on the Relation of the Church to Non-Christian Religions). Taken together, these Vatican II documents (whose 50th anniversary we celebrate this year), reiterated the statement of John XXIII in his encyclical: Also among mans rights is that of being able to worship God in accordance with the right dictates of his own conscience, and to profess his religion both in private and in public(PT,14).

Christian Tradition and Religious Freedom

II. Historical Background But has the Church always subscribed to the principle of Religious Freedom? A quick look at the historical background tells us that the Church went through several stages of interpreting religious freedom under changing circumstances. The first generations of Christians underwent hostility from the established religions of Judaism and the Roman Empire. It was the age of martyrs for the first three centuries. Denied the freedom to worship in public, persecuted Christians literally went underground in the catacombs of Rome. With the advent of the Constantinian era in 313 A.D., Christianity began to enjoy the freedom and privileges of an official religion. And throughout the Middle Ages in Europe (500-1500 A.D.) the close relationship between popes and temporal rulers eventually resulted in a socio-political configuration called Christendom. Heresy was oftentimes considered a threat to the stability of the state. The Inquisition and the Crusades to the Holy Land were outcomes of the same world view of a theocratic society that saw itself as the bearer of truth and at the same time guardians of the temporal-spiritual welfare of its subjects. Subsequently, in the sixteenth century, the Reformation and Counter-Reformation brought about protracted periods of religious wars invariably a mutual denial of religious freedom among those in opposing camps. On our side of the globe, Spanish colonization and Christianization of the Philippines for almost three and a half centuries were carried out within the framework of union of Church and State. The mission work of the Church was placed under the aegis of the Patronato Real; parish priests were supported by the Royal Crown. It was in this context that the Filipinos revolution against the Spanish colonial government included a religious revolution in thecreation of an Iglesia Filipina Independiente. The beginnings of the American period at the turn of the 19th-20th century brought about the separation of Church and State and the entry of other Christian churches in the Philippines. Although Catholicism remained the majority religion on the islands, all religious denominations received equal protection from the law, patterned after the American experience. This principle of separation of Church

and State is maintained in the Philippine Constitutions of 1935, 1974, and 1987.III. Meaning of Religious Freedom The Catholic Churchs position on Religious Freedom since the period of Pope John XXIII and Vatican II represents an about-face reversal of its earlier perspective that error has no right, and therefore other faith-based communities have no public right to worship. This reversal is explicitated in Dignitatis Humanae:The Vatican Council declares that the human person has a right to religious freedom. Freedom of this kind means that all men should be immune from coercion on the part of individuals, social groups and every human power so that, within due limits, nobody is forced to act against his convictions nor is anyone to be restrained from acting in accordance with his convictions in religious matters in private or in public, alone or in association with others (DH, 2). This double immunity from coercion from being forced to act or being restrained from acting in religious matters should be recognized in the constitutional order of society, as will make it a civil right (DH, 2).The Council further states that this religious freedom is based on the dignity of the human person i.e., as created in the image of God, endowed with reason that seeks the truth, freedom that seeks the good and the beautiful, and conscience that urges the person to do good and avoid evil. (GS, 14-17).The dignity of moral conscience with its inner imperatives is described by the Council fathers:For man has in his heart a law inscribed by God. His dignity lies in observing this law, and by it he will be judged By conscience, that law is made known which is

fulfilled in the love of God and of ones neighbor (GS, 16). Hence, the right to religious freedom, as enunciated in Vatican II, is based on the very dignity of the human person instead of the earlier presuppositions of objective truth or conscience alone (that may or may not be erroneous): Mans dignity therefore requires him to act out of conscience and free choice, as moved and drawn in a personal way from within, and not by blind impulses in himself or by mere external constraint (GS, 17). Thus, even if a person subscribes to a truth that is objectively false or bases his belief on an erroneous conscience, the integrity of his human dignity should be respected and accorded the right to religious freedom. The Declaration on Religious Freedom also points out the other aspect of the exercise of this freedom for all persons: their personal responsibility and moral obligation to seek the truth, especially religious truth (DH, 2). Freedom from coercion in civil society allows the individual person or community to seek this truth, binding on ones conscience and religious convictions. For the Church, religious freedom is also seen in the light of revelation. The Gospel narratives repeatedly manifest Christs respect for the freedom of everyone he encounters from the calling of the apostles, to the curing of the sick

and the possessed, to the confrontation with the leaders of the Jews. The Council observes: God calls men to serve him in spirit and in truth. Consequently they are bound to him in conscience but not coerced (DH, 11).IV. Moments in the Churchs Exercise of Religious Freedom How then has the Catholic Church interpreted and exercised its understanding of Religious Freedom in the aftermath of Dignitatis Humanae? A first moment is the recognition that Religious Freedom replaces Established Catholicism. No longer does the Church claim that it has the sole right to public worship. Nor can there be the return to a Christian theocratic state (with the possible exception of the Holy See being also the Vatican State). During the period of Communist oppression in several countries, the popes exercised a second moment in invoking the freedom of the Church against Atheistic Communism. The underground Church in the Soviet Union and China and other oppressive countries provides countless narratives of the heroic witnessing of priests, religious and lay Catholics to their faith. At the end of the Cold War, the Church is undergoing a third moment in confronting the challenges of Secularism and Relativism. In their extreme forms these philosophies would privatize religion and deny any public display of worship on the one hand and undermine the objective bases for morality on the other. Following the spirit of Vatican II, the Church has also entered a fourth moment of dialogue in religious freedom with other Christian churches and world religions. The Council Fathers issued separate decrees on the Catholic Eastern Churches, Ecumenism, and Non-Christian Religions. In Nostra Aetate, the Council Fathers articulated their view:The Catholic Church rejects nothing of what is true and holy in these religions. She has a high regard for the manner of life and conduct, the precepts and doctrines which although differing in many ways from her own teaching, nevertheless often

reflect a ray of that truth which enlightens all men (NA, 2). One could add that these other religions also often provide striking examples of love of God and love of neighbor that are central to Christianity and signs of Gods presence in the world. Several commentators have suggested a fifth moment of Dignitatis Humanae in addressing religious freedom within the Church itself. The current issues of wider participation in the life of the Church, the exercise of authority as service, the role of women, family life and reproductive health, modifying the punitive aspects of discipline with compassion, etc. are all part of the ongoing conversations and movements of the Spirit within the Church. In many ways, Pope Francis call for a Culture of Encounter so strikingly manifested in his apostolic visit to the Philippines can open new directions where one meets the other in a personalized way, touching the wounds of the other, and sharing Gods mercy and compassion for all. n

(Presented at the International Symposium, Toward Peace and Harmony in the Reality of Religious Pluralism, at the University of Santo Tomas, Manila, 2 February 2015)

LAMDAG

Bag-ong Lamdag is a newsletter published monthly by the Social Communications Apostolate of the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro, whose aim is to link the various parishes, ministries, and apostolates within this archdiocese. For inquiries and feedback, send us an email at ascacdo@gmail.com. You may visit us online and leave a comment at lamdagcdo.blogspot.com.

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Archdiocesan News LAMDAGJanuary 16 - March 16, 2015

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Msgr. Rodolfo Roa Ang mga kaparian sa Archdiocese atol sa Golden Jubilee ni Msgr. Roa

18th Annotation graduates and 19th Annotation participants join together in the Advent Recollection conducted by Fr. Cel Reyes, SJ

ni Eulalia A. AbidMalipayong nagsaulog si Msgr. Rodolfo Roa atol sa iyang ika-50 nga anibersaryo sa pagkapari nga gipahigayon diha sa Santos nga Eukaristiya uban ni Arsobispo Antonio J. Ledesma, SJ,DD, ug mga kaparian sa Arkidiyosesis sa

Cagayan de Oro sa Simbahan sa Sta. Rita, Balingasag, Misamis Oriental.Si Msgr. Cirilo Isnani, ang gitahasan nga magwali, nag-ingon nga ang pagtoo ni Msgr. Roa sama sa pagtoo sa Mahal nga Birhen Maria nga misunod sa kabubut-on sa Dios, dili sama sa pagtoo ni Zacarias

nga nagduhaduha sa mensahe sa Dios nga gipadala sa anghel kaniya.Ang 50 ka tuig nga pagkapari ni Msgr. Roa usa ka talagsaong gasa gikan sa Dios ngadto sa katawhan, dili lamang sa katawhan sa Balingasag kondili sa tibuok Arkidiyodesis sa Cagayan de Oro.Busa

angayan kita nga maglipay ug magpasalamat sa Dios sa pag-alagad ug pagserbiyo niya sa katawhan, matod ni Msgr. Isnani.Human sa misa adunay programa nga gipahigayon. Naghatag ug pulong sa pasalamat ug pagdayeg ang mga representante sa mga

parokya nga gialagaran ni Msgr. Roa. Mitambong usab si Mayor Oscar Moreno sa maong selebrasyon. Uban sa awit ug sayaw nga gipakita sa nagkalain-laing grupo, ang kalihokan atol sa Golden Jubilee ni Msgr. Roa nahimong halandumon ug mabulokon. n

Msgr. Roa Nagsaulog sa ika-50 nga Anibesaryo sa Pagkapari

by Dr. Benie SySeven participants completed the Retreat in Daily Life (RDL) Programs 18th annotation retreat in according to the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola. It was sponsored by the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro Campus Ministry Association (ACCMA) and the Spiritual Directors Circle of CDO, under the supervision of Fr. Cel Reyes, SJ, rector of St. John Vianney Theological Seminary, and assisted by Mr. Michael Acenas of Xavier University Campus Ministry and ACCMA adviser.ACCMAs RDL is part of the formation program for the Public and private high school teachers who are volunteers and mostly involved in values education and campus ministry. This years RDL started last September and concluded with an advent recollection and a simple ceremony for the 18th annotation graduates on December 7, 2014. Four of the graduates are public high school teachers: Ms. Pablita A. Delgra (City High School), Ms. Marilou B. Florendo (Alubijid NHS), Ms. Ma. Delma D. Dingal (Dansolihon NHS), and Ms. Cleopatra Hidalgo (Bulua NHS). The other three are from the Council of Lay Ecclesial Movements and Organizations of the Archdiocese of Cagayan

Public School Teachers and Lay Leaders Undergo Retreat in Daily Lifede Oro (CLEMOACO): Mr. & Mrs. Dondi Roa (BCBP) and Atty. Proculo Sarmen (Knights of Columbus), as part of CLEMOACOs continuous program for the leaders of the different lay member organizations.They are grateful to the spiritual directors: Fr. Cel Reyes, SJ, Fr. George Esguera, SJ, Sr. Ranette Angot ODN, Sr. Lucero Marquez ODN, Sr. Claire Cecilio Salvani, SA, Mr. Aldrich Palraca, Mr. Lilia Duraliza, and Mr Michael Acenas for their time and dedication.After the recollection and RDL graduation, ACCMA

board met to finalize the 2015 schedule of activities. Some

of these are the teachers recollection and formation, recollections and vocation retreats for senior high school students, RDL for teachers and further formation at the Center for Ignatian Spirituality (CIS) at Loyola School of Theology in Manila. Tukod Net and Alpha Philippines, CLEMOACOs member organizations were formally introduced as regular member of ACCMA board. This would facilitate collaboration in providing Kerygma formation to the 1st to 3rd year students as a preparation to the 4th year high school recollections currently provided by ACCMA recollection/ retreat team. n

priests sACerDOtALcelebrations

February 7 Fr. Juliano Retiquez February 11 Fr. Amie Balacuit February 12 Fr. Othelo Polinar Fr. Eleuterio DatoyFebruary 17 Fr. Saturnino Lumba

February 19 Fr. Joe VillamilFebruary 23 Fr. Lino Macatol IIFebruary 28 Fr. Rufino CabatingaFebruary 29 Fr. Floro Barsobia

February 12 Fr. William Salva99 Fr. Fermin Tan Jr.99 Fr. Fredberto Ranan99 Fr. Noel Ebana99 Fr. Aurelio Jaranilla99 Fr. Ruthenberge Develos99

February 22 Fr. Ramer Colanse00 Fr. Renerio Sabuga Jr.00February 24 Fr. Floro Barsobia98 Fr. Wilson Legaspi98 Fr. Sacris Recoleto98 Fr. Cleto Taajura98

priests birthDAycelebrations

died in the Mamasapano Massacre. This was followed by prayers offered by Baylan Nicasio Dulumpay (Higaonon), Ustadj Amin Macalantong (Muslim) and Fr. Jejet Villeza (IFI). Archbishop Antonio Ledesma DD. SJ. gave a warm welcome to all the participants.Following her one-hour presentation, Atty. Basman spent more than one and a half hours answering the large volume of questions raised by the audience and clarifying the issues of concern that were voiced. She explained, for example, that the Bangsamoro territory can only be expanded if the majority of residents in a particular area vote in favor, by means of a plebiscite and not, as many had thought, if 10% of the population sign a petition. She also stated that the rights of Christians and Lumads (as enshrined in the Philippine Constitution and IPRA) will be protected under the BBL and that the Shariah Law will only apply to disputes involving Muslims.Atty. Basman expressed her belief that support for the BBL offers the best

Atty. Anna Basman with the participants during the forum on Bangsamoro Basic Law

UNDERSTANDING THE... p.1

opportunity for lasting peace in Mindanao. If the surrender of arms by the MILF and the dismantling of private armies take place within to the timeframe as agreed by the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), this offers the most hope, that what happened in Mamasapano, Maguindanao on Januuary 25, will never happen again, she said. n

FeaturesLAMDAGJanuary 16 - March 16, 2015

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Not everyone was given the chance to be a delegate in the recent Papal Visit. I am so blessed to be one of the few. I thank GOD for giving me such an opportunity. I never thought of joining this before because I am content just to see Pope Francis on the television. But God really has His ways. He blessed me with people that would help me make this journey possible.

I saw Pope Francis in person and witnessed his mercy and compassion for all of us. I heard his inspiring messages and keep most of them in my mind and in my heart. He is really an instrument of God to make us more courageous in giving mercy and compassion to our brothers and sisters in need.

Some of us may not have enough resources to help others but our prayers and presence are already good enough to help them spiritually. As Pope Francis said, Love is loving and letting yourself be loved Let us allow ourselves to be surprised by God. (Celine Borja)

When the Popes visit is over, where do we go from here? This question of our dear Cardinal Tagle struck me most. After all the messages and reminders of our Pope, I asked myself: What now? Am I going to end it here? Am I going to leave it here?

It was indeed a privilege for me to be one of the delegates of the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro City to the recently concluded Papal Youth Encounter. The eleven-hour-wait was nothing when I personally saw the Vicar of Christ for the very first time. His smile and his wave to us wiped away our tiredness. His messages to us were very timely and very inspiring. I myself cried during the singing of Tell the World with His Love. The ambience of the venue was very different that you can really feel the presence of God. After the event, I felt challenged as a youth to really be merciful and compassionate to others. It is not a simple challenge that could be accomplished in a blink of an eye. It is a challenge that should be put into action and should be prayed over. My encounter with the Pope is like an encounter with Jesus. I was reminded that in order for me to be a good Christian and in order for me to follow Jesus, I must be like Jesus. (Janu, Tagoloan)

Sa tv na lang mo magtan-aw maklaro pa ninyo siya didto. Dili gihapon mo makakita niya sa personal, daghan kaayong tao, we were told. But in my heart, even just from afar, just a glimpse of the Pope will be all worth it. Can you imagine how it was when his mobile passed by in front of us, seeing him clearly, his genuine smile, his reassuring wave? I cried, a lot actually! I could not contain the joy I felt in my heart when I saw him passing by. What more when I heard his voice. That was the climax, more than just seeing him I was so blessed to be able to hear his words for the young people. He was the reaffirmation of my faith. He was the living proof of Gods presence. His presence confirmed that I wasnt wrong in choosing this service. A week ago, I experienced that unexplainable peace and happiness in my heart - not just because I saw Pope Francis, Christs Vicar, but because I encountered Jesus Christ in him. I will surely hold this experience in my heart forever, together with a prayer of being able to think well, feel well, and do well. (Verna Joy P. Pagaling)

MY GRATITUDEWhen God wants you to do something

for His name everything will come smoothly.

Reflections, Insights, etc During Pope Francis VisitJanuary 15-19, 2015

Attending the Papal Youth Encounter is one of the most priceless gift I have ever received in my life, unexpectedly. Being one of the

delegates, was special since it was only a few months after my 21st birthday. For me, the Pope was an instrument of change: for better understanding and appreciation of faith; from isolation to freedom of religion, from hatred to love; from greediness to generosity; from self-centeredness to openness; from rejection to acceptance. God sent me to be part of this holy event for He knows my greatest needs to listen and to interact. Pope is a visible blessing and identification that God is truly alive, He lives in our spirit and He dwells in our hearts. As a youth, I realized that there is joy in living with the poor, acting humbly, practicing respect and love, and saying YES for the Lord no matter what it takes. To think well, to feel well, and to do well, to take the challenge to love no matter what. (Ma. Chloee Marlowe C. Alaba,

San Isidro Labrador Parish, Medina, Misamis Oriental)

What a wonderful blessing and opportunity that has been given to me in the first month of the year! The experience was so amazing that I could no longer explain how it feels. It inspires me to be better and more responsible Filipino youth. Theres one statement from Pope Francis that touched me during the Papal Encounter with the Youth at University of Santo Tomas: Dont be afraid to cry. Young people in times of distress, pain and trouble would prefer to hide their true feelings in order to show everyone that nothing is wrong and everything is fine. For some, crying is a sign of weakness, which they try to avoid as much as they can. For me, crying is the best pain reliever; it always helps me to feel better. It is through crying that we are able to release the negative feelings from deep within, the frustrations we get from unforeseen circumstances and the joy that cannot be expressed in words. Pope Francis challenges us to be genuine to ourselves and to everyone and not to be afraid to show our weaknesses and struggles. He wants us to ask mercy, to live humbly and to be brave without being superior to others. Its okay to cry because that is a good sign that we are human who are Gods greatest masterpiece. (Precy Tom Cabanes)

I am blessed! I am very much blessed! (Sr. Bing Nini, FdCC)

About three (3) days before I went to Manila, I had a meeting with Most Rev. Antonio J. Ledesma, SJ, DD for some concerns. After our meeting, I told him: You know bishop if given the chance to hold and kiss the hand of our dear Pope Francis, its ok for me to die

Delegates to the Papal Youth Encounter

anytime. Then, Archbishop said, What? He smiled and continued, Ok, let us pray to the Holy Spirit.

The warm and overwhelming return of people who welcomed the visit of our dear Pope was really a sign of UNITY as Filipinos and our deep FAITH and TRUST in God. Personally, when I walked early in the morning from our Canossian Provincialate to Manila Cathedral last January 16 to attend the Holy Mass to be presided over by the Holy Father, I was very excited to see him. Seeing the huge crowd of people waiting outside the Cathedral, I was so happy because I can sense in them the great excitement in seeing the Pope too. Then, I was drawn to silence deep

within. Then questions surfaced in my mind: Why I am here? What is the reason that I want to see the Pope?

It dawned on me then the cry of a woman who saw the Pope the day before saying: Masayang-masaya po ako at nakita ko si Pope. Para na ding nahawakan ko si Hesus. I said to myself: How I wish I could also experience the same. The words that I said to Bishop Ledesma continued to

linger in my mind: If only I have the chance

to hold the hand of the Pope, it is ok for me to die then. Indeed, Christ is enough for me as truly represented by His Vicar, the Holy Father. Being in the Cathedral and waiting for the Holy Father, I cannot explain my feeling of excitement. Punongpuno ako nang hindi madescribe na feelings. I know that was how God communicated to me and felt His presence.

Filled with inspiration,I prayed from my heart for all the priests, religious and the entire nation that we continue to be docile to heed the message of the Holy Father. It would truly continue to create in us a renewed and burning heart of mercy and compassion; a heart that is enkindled with a fire of love and light to others.

The moment I saw the Pope, walking at the aisle of the Manila Cathedral up to the altar, I cannot understand my feeling. I felt the awe and wonder of the presence of Christ in the Holy Father. The dominant feeling was GRATITUDE for having such one in a lifetime chance to see the Holy Father in person. Then I said to myself: I am blessed! I am really blessed! Really God cannot be out done in His generosity and love. Sometimes there are people want to hurt and discourage us, but God continues to assure us that He is always with us. Hence, no matter what, we have nothing to fear. Seeing the Holy Father was a personal encounter of Jesus who is PRESENT and REAL. I cannot help but my heart exulted with the psalm, I am here with you till the end of my days. Really God is good for He sends people to light our way and help renew our faith and trust in Him. Indeed, God is merciful and compassionate. Amen.

My Experience of the Visit of Pope Francis to the Philippines (Sr. Perla Balbastro, DC)

During the Cathedral mass, in our place, there were times when we were only listening with our hearts to his face on the TV screen most of the time, because the sound system was not so generous in our side, left back quadrant of the Cathedral. Yet we received more than our senses. The Mass was beautiful. The homily was touching for us, bishops, priests and religious, to be called to be love in the heart of the church, to be ambassadors for Christ ,in a ministry of reconciliation, to proclaim the joy of the Gospel, to be invited to a renewed personal encounter with the Lord Jesus, to welcome Christs reconciling grace in our hearts, which to St. Pauls means to be the first to examine our consciences, to acknowledge our failings and to embrace the path of constant conversion. He exalted Filipino culture saying: It has been shaped by the imagination of faith. Filipinos everywhere are known for their love of God, their fervent piety and their warm devotion to our Lady and her rosary. This great heritage contains

a powerful missionary potential. He closed his homily by; I ask Mary, Mother of the Church, to obtain for all of you an outpouring of zeal, so that you may spend yourselves in selfless service to our brothers and sisters. In this way, may the reconciling love of Christ penetrate ever more fully into the fabric of Filipino society and through you, to the farthest reaches of the world?

The most touching part of the Cathedral mass for me was when he

approached the sick and elderly men and women religious, kissed and hugged them. Without words he was saying what he really wanted to say in coming to the Filipinos which he said in Tacloban; We have a high priest who is capable of sympathizing with our weaknessesIn his passion he assumed all our pain When I saw from Rome that catastrophe I had to be here. ON those very days I decided to come here, I am here to be with you- a little bit late, but Im here. I have come to tell you that Jesus is Lord. And he never lets you down. .. The tenderness of Mary never lets you down. And holding unto her mantle and with the power that comes from Jesus love on the cross, let us move forward and walk together as brothers and sisters in the Lord. We went out the main door of the Cathedral after 1 pm. It was such a humbling experience to see crowds of religious men and women and lay persons as far as the eyes can see who listened to the Pope, and waited to see him leave the Cathedral. We were privileged to sit inside; here they sacrificed standing perhaps since before the break of dawn to see him. Gratitude erased all my misgivings including gender inequality, defective sound system, feeling caged in side chapels and aisles.. .No pain may water down the JOY of the Gospel! Pope Francis, up to this point gave us a taste of Him ,who even if hanging on the cross, came to us, as the Gospel said, on January 16,2015, touched us, hugged us, all of us who were sick, elderly, poor, in need, in His Church in the Philippines. This was just the beginning touch for me Pamalandong sa Pagbisita ni Lolo Kiko (Charlie Lorzano)

Ang lima ka adlaw nga pagbisita ni Lolo

Kiko sa Pilipinas natapos niadtong Lunes, Enero 19.Ug sa iyang pagbiya,mga handumanan diha sa mensahe, homiliya ug pamalandong iyang gibilin sa tanang mga matinud-anon nga nagkatigum sa pagpamati kaniya.

Ang labing nakatandog kanako nga gisulti sa Santo Papa mao ang makadasig nga mga mensahe ingon man sa usa ka tawag alang sa pagkamatinud-anon sa paghatag ug dako nga atensyon ug panahon diha sa pamilya. Importante nga magbaton kita ug damgo sa pamilya. Ang mga ginikinan giaghat usab sa pagbuhat ug damgo sa ilang mga anak nga lalake ug mga anak nga babaye samtang sila diha pa sa sabakan sa siyam ka bulan. Dili mahimo nga adunay usa ka pamilya nga walay damgo nga iyang giya ug panag-ingnan. Kay kon kita mawad-an niini nga kapasidad sa pagdamgo,mawad-an usab kita sa kapasidad sa paghigugma. Kini mao ang importante kaayo sa damgo ug ilabi na sa damgo diha sa pamilya.

Ug sa katapusan, miingon si Papa Francisco, Ang matag hulga ngadto sa pamilya mao ang usa ka hulga sa katilingban ug sa iyang kaugalingon. Busa panalipdi ang inyong mga pamilya. Tan-awa diha kanila ug diha sa imong nasud sa labing dako nga bahandi ug pag-amuma sa kanila sa kanunay pinaagi sa pag-ampo ug sa grasya sa mga sakramento.

Pamalandong (Gilda M. Pates)

Akong pagbati sa pagkakita ko sa atong mahal nga Santo Papa Frances grabe gyod dili mapugngan ang akong mga luha, lahi kayo ang akong gibati ilabi na gyod sa Iyang paggakos sa mga tawo nga may mga kapansanan. Ang pagkuha niya sa mga bata ug paghalok sa mga masakiton. Makita gayod iyang pagkaamahan sa

tanan.Naa siyay hiyas sama ni Kristo, sa usa lang

Sr. Roxan Sarmiento, CM, Fr. Balsamo, Sweet Adorio

Delegates of the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro during the Papal Visit

Sr. Bing Nini FdCC, Sr. Lorna Cababaan, MCM Sr. Carmelita Buot, SPC Sr. Tess Balberan, CM, and Sr. Perla Balbastro, DC REFLECTIONS/ 5

Charlie Lorzano

Features LAMDAGJanuary 16 - March 16, 2015

5

by Vincent Janu A. Razalo

Seventy (70) delegates from the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro met Pope Francis during the Papal Youth Encounter last January 18, 2015 at University of Sto.Tomas. The Papal Youth Encounter was the fourth day of the apostolic visit of Pope Francis to the Country.

Indeed, the Papal Youth Encounter was a very rare event for the Filipino Youth, thus the delegates really prepared for the event. The delegates of the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro were instructed to secure all of their resources like their transportation, accommodation, and other things. The delegates were required to attend the Papal Youth Encounter Preparatory Session last January 10, 2015 at the Patrick Cronin Formation Center, Cathedral Compound, Cagayan de Oro City. Reminders, rules, announcements and updates for the event were clearly delivered by the facilitator. Also, official IDs, T-shirts and guide books from the Archdiocesan Youth Apostolate were distributed to the delegates.

Youth from the Archdiocese of CDO meet Pope Francis

Archbishop Antonio J. Ledesma, SJ, DD reminded the delegates that during the Papal Youth Encounter, they are not going to be a tourists but rather pilgrims.

The majority of the delegates from the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro arrived in Metro Manila on January 17, 2015. The delegates were instructed to gather near the 2nd gate of University of Sto. Tomas around 10:00 in the morning for the final orientation, quick tour in the venue and giving of the Episcopal Commission on Youth (ECY) IDs which served as their gate pass for the Papal Youth Encounter. Delegates agreed to stay outside the University as early as 10:30 in the evening of the event to ensure a good spot in the venue. The gates were opened at around 4:00A.M. and were expected to be closed after 3 hours. While waiting, some delegates sat on mats and others leaned on the walls until the gates were opened.

Indeed, the waiting period tested the endurance and the patience of the delegates. After passing through a very tight security, they were able to occupy

a good spot in the venue. Then, a mass was celebrated in honor of Sto. Nio.

S i n c e the Pope was expected to arrive 9:30 in the morning, a program was prepared to entertain the young d e l e g a t e s . Rehearsals for

the cheers for the Pope, liturgical songs, and the Latin Angelus were also done.

Finally after the long wait, Pope Francis arrived. Everyone welcomed the Pope with cheers and waves as he entered the Universitys main gate. He boarded the Pope mobile as he went through the stage. He kissed some children and babies, and waved his hands to the people who had patiently waited for him. The 11 hours of wait with lots of inconveniences were wiped away by the Popes stunning smile towards the delegates.

The program activity started with the enthronement of the Cross and followed by the testimonies of three young Filipinos, an out of school youth, a law student and a typhoon relief volunteer. Also, they asked Pope Francis questions that represent their concerns. This was followed by prayers and petitions given by 7 youth from different languages of our country. They also prayed the Angelus with the Pope. The encounter ended by the singing of Tell the world of His love, the theme song of the 1995 World Youth Day.

The encounter with the Pope awakened the enthusiasm of young Filipinos to serve the Lord. It was like they were sent into a battle, wherein they were challenged to live life according to the will of God. The delegates were able to strengthen their relationship to God. They considered Pope Francis as a role model of humility, mercy and compassion. The encounter with the Pope ended but the Pope Francis Effect will always be inculcated in their hearts. n

nato ka pagtanaw kaniya makita nato ang iyang pagkayano lamang nga tawo ug miingon pa siya nga ang simbahan mao ang katawhan sa Diyos diha sa atong matag usa ka pamilia.

Para kanako dako kaayo kini ug kahulugan sa akong pag-alagad sa atong mga igsoon nga anaa sulod sa bilanggoan, kay sama sila sa nahisalaag nga mga karnero nga nabiyaan sa maayong magbalantay ang tagsa-tagsa nato ka mga familia. Ang maayong familia mao ang mag balantay sa mga karnero ug kong ang familia magkabulag-bulag ang mga anak mawala sila sa maayong dalan kay nabiyaan naman sila sa maayong magbalantay ang mga ginikanan.

Hinaut unta nga atong sundon ang maong mga hiyas sa pagkamaloloy-on ug mahigugmaon sa pag-alagad sa uban. Sumpay pa niya nga kong kita gusto mahimong dako sa mata sa Diyos kinahanglan nga moalagad kita sa mga tawo pinaagi sa pagtabang sa atong mga

igsoon nga nawala sa maayong dalan ug ilabina sa mga tawong kabus.

Tacloban Pilgrimage(by Tessie Salcedo)

Seeing the Pope in person was something I never imagined. But because of the persistent invitation of a friend, I gave in. Since I cannot afford to go to the Vatican, and even if I can, there is no guarantee I can see Pope Francis, I decided to go to Tacloban. I also wanted to see the actual damage brought by typhoon Yolanda in 2013.

We planned to stay overnight near the airport for the Popes mass in the morning. So, as early as 12 noon, we prepared what we needed to bring, including our maintenance medicine. We were all required to use transparent bags and raincoats. By 4:30 PM we went to secure our vehicle sticker, otherwise, we would have to hike all the way to the airport. We arrived at the venue for the mass early but we were not allowed inside because k9 dogs were still checking the place. When

we finally got in to another quadrant I wondered: How can I bear all the inconveniences until the arrival of the pope the next day?

The Holy Mass was celebrated at about 11:00 PM and it was already showering. Shortly after midnight, a Taize prayer and songs were played. People kept coming. There were inconveniences, like lying down on dirty cement with only a sando bag or malong as our mat. Rain started to pour heavily by 4:00 AM but strong winds started as early as 2:00 AM. We found shelter under a riser constructed for the media. By 4:00 AM, we positioned ourselves on our designated quadrant; otherwise, others will take our place. Even before Pope Francis boarded the plane in Villamor Airbase, we were already in our places drenched by the rain.

Rain continued to pour throughout the papal mass, so I thought it would be impossible for Pope Francis to go around. But lo and behold, after his final blessing, he rode the pope mobile and went around, waving and blessing all of us. He was also wearing a yellow raincoat like us. What a blessing and how fortunate we are. From where we stood, it looked like Pope Francis was barely two meters away. We really saw him and felt his blessing. On his way back to the airport from Palo, we saw him again as he blessed all of us.

I must say that the Tacloban pilgrimage was worth all the inconveniences and the signal number 2 typhoon. We had to hike on the way back as our vehicle was not allowed to pick us up. In spite of this, the winds and the rain, I felt great seeing the Pope in person.

Pope Francis is really an example of true compassion. He said mass in an open field during a typhoon. Somehow he felt how it was when typhoon Yolanda hit Tacloban. In doing this he showed how he truly loves his people. n

REFLECTIONS... p.4

ni Father Paul Glynn SSC

Ang primerong semana sa Febrero, sa kada tuig, gideklarar sa United Nations General Assembly ngaWorld Interfaith Harmony Week. Taliwala sa kagobot, giyera, terrorismo, inhustisya, global warming, ug uban pa ang United Nations nag-awhag sa nagkalain-laing mga hut-ong sa pagtuo sa tanang mga dapit sa kalibutan sa pagtapok aron sa pag-ampo nga hiniusa alang sa kalinaw, pagsinabtanay ug kahiusahan.

Atol sa kasubo, kasuko ug kahadlok karong panahona tungod sa bag-ong mga panghitabo sa Mindanao, sama sa nahitabo sa Mamasapano, Maguidanao, ang Interfaith Forum for Peace, Harmony and Solidarity, kauban sa Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro ug sa nagkalain-laing mga hut-ong sa pagtuo sa Cagayan de Oro nagpahigayon ug duha ka kasaulogan diin nagkahiusa ang mga Lumad, ang mga Muslim ug ang mga Kristyano diha sa pag-ampo alang sa kalinaw. Sa Febrero 5 alas 7.30 sa gabii San Agustin Cathedral adunay gipahigayon nga Ecumenical Prayers for Peace, diin nag-ampo ang mga Obispo, mga pari ug ang mga pastor gikan sa UCCP, Evangelical, Iglesia Filipina Indepediente, Methodist, ug Roman Catholic alang sa kalinaw, kahiusahan ug alang sa hustisya para sa tanang mga biktima sa kagobot. Kining hiniusang pag-ampo gitambongan usab sa mga Muslim sa atongdakbayan ug sa mga Higaonon natong mga igsoon nga gikan sa Dansolihon.

Human sa usa ka minute nga tumang kahilom para sa mga nangamatay sa Mamasapano ug alang sa tanang mga biktima sa gubat ug sa kagubot, naghatag si Archbishop Antonio Ledesma, SJ, DD ug usa ka Welcome Address sa pag-abi-abi sa tanang mga Lumad, Muslim, ug Kristyano nga nanambong niining kasaulogan. Ang mga pag-ampo nga gihalad sa mga pari, pastor ug Obispo giubanan ug mga awit alang sa kalinaw nga gipangulohan ug kanta sa UCCP Chancel Choir. Human sa pag-ampo sa Amahan Namo,

Ang World Interfaith Harmony Week gisaulog sa Cagayan de Oro

Archbishop Ledesma, Bishop Calang (IFI) & Bishop Petallo (Evangelical) with Lumad, Muslim and Christian leaders at World Interfaith Harmony Week, San Agustin Cathedral

diin ang tanang mga Katoliko ug Protestante naggunitay ug kamot, ang katapusang panalangin gihatag nila ni Bishop JolliehPetallo (Evangelical); Bishop Felixberto Calang (IFI); Senior Minister Ricardo Yanez Jr. (UCCP) uban ni Archbishop Antonio Ledesma. Gitapus ang kasaulogan pinaagi sa mga mensahe nga gihatag ni Hadji Mohamad Gondarangin (Muslim) ug ni Datu Ontong Bisoy (Higaonon), diin nagpasalamat sila sa Diyos nga Makagagahum nga gihatagan ang Cagayan de Oro sa talagsaong grasya; ang panaghigalaay ug ang panaghiusa tali sa mga Lumad, Muslim ug Kristyano nga gihulagway diha sa mao nga kasaulogan.

Pagkasunod adlaw, sa Febrero 6, alas 11.30 sa udto nagtapok usab ang mga Lumad ug ang mga Kristyano (nag-uban usab si Archbishop Ledesma) diha sa Oro Jama-ah Masjid, Cogon diin nagduyog kami sa mga Muslim nga nag-ampo alang sa kalinaw ug sa kahiusahan natong tanan. Sa iyang wali, nagpasabot si Aleem Aliasa Alinog ngadto sa mga nanimbahay nga kun dili nila higugmaon ang mga silingan nila nga Kristyano ug Lumad dili sila tinuod nga Muslim, kay ang balaan nga Quran nagtudlo nga ang mga Kristyanos pinalangga man ni Allah.

Human sa mga pag-ampo naghatag si Msgr. Rey Monsanto ug mensahe diin nagpasalamat siya sa Diyos nga maoy naglamdag kanato sa pagkahiusa ubos kaniya alang sa kalinaw ug alang sa pagsinabtanay. Nagpasalamat usab si Datu LitoNakalaban, sa ngalan sa mga Higaonon, nga gihatagan sila sa kahigayonan sa pagpakighiusa uban sa mga Muslim alang sa kalinaw; ug nag-imbitar siya sa tanang mga Muslim ug Kristyanos sa pagtambong sa usa ka Lumadnong pag-ampo alang sa pagpanalipod sa Cagayan River nga pagahimoon sa Dansolihon karong Marso 7 sa may alas 7 sa buntag. Kining kasaulogan sa mga Higaonon ang ika-tulo nga gitakda nga kalihokan sa Interfaith Forum alang sa World Interfaith Harmony Week. n

Delegates to the Papal Youth Encounter

Tessie Salcedo (2nd from right) with San Lorenzo Ruiz Chinese Catholic Community, CDO

Archbishop Ledesma with Aleem Aliasa Alinog and Msgr. Monsanto and other Christians and Muslims at the World Interfaith Harmony Week at the Oro Jama-ah Mosque, Cogon

January 16 - March 16, 2015

Saksak-Sinagol ni PepoyeKUMUKOTIKUTITAP!LAMDAG6

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will be more than happy to print greetings and announcements at reasonable rates.

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LAMDAGCall for Articles

We invite parishioners, ministries, clergy and religious to submit news stories. Just send us the details, and well give you proper

credit for your article.

Email your submissions, along with your name, phone number, and parish/congregation to ascacdo@gmail.com

Ang ebanghelyo sa GUGMA sumala ni Emen ug Nene

(Himayaon ikaw o Ginoo)

Makakita gani kog bitoon nga KUMUKOTIKUTITAP sa kalangitan makahinumdom dayon ko sa gugma nila papa emen ug mama nene (emen ug nene ang tinawganay nila ni papa ug mama). Ang ilang gugma nga daw bitoon sa akong kinabuhi. Ang ilang panaghigugmaay ug panag-uban sa 60 katuig daw gugma nga walay pagkapalong. Murag usa ka bitoon nga kanunayng KUMUKOTIKUTITAP nga naghatag kanakog kadasig sa pagkinabuhi usab sa susamang gugma.Ang gugma ni papa emen ug mama nene daw bitoon nga gagilak-gilak. Ang ilang gugma daw bitoon nga gakidlap-kidlap. Ang ilang gugma daw bitoon nga gakislap-kislap. Ang ilang gugma daw bitoon nga gakipat-kipat. Ang ilang gugma daw bitoon nga gasidlak-sidlak.Ang gugma ni papa emen ug mama nene daw bitoon nga KUMUKOTIKUTITAP!

KUMUKOTIKUTITAP ang gugma ni papa emen ug mama nene. Usa ka KUMUKOTIKUTITAP nga kahayag daw nagdani ug nagdala kanako paduol sa gugma sa Dios. Ang akong pagsud-ong sa ilang KUMUKOTIKUTITAP nga gugma nagpasud-ong pud kanako sa way-kutob ug way-sukod nga gugma sa Dios. KUMUKOTIKUTITAP daw nga gugma ang Dios.

Enero 2, 2015 namatay akong papa emen sa edad nga 83. Tulo ka bulan sa wala pa siya mamatay nagbalikbalik intawon siya sa hospital tungod sa mga sakit nga pwede gyud untang maulian pa. Disyembre 31, 2015 ayha pa namo nahibal-an nga naa diay siyay dako nga tumor sa lungs og sa ani nga higayon diritso na siya sa ICU. Naglisud na pag-ayo si papa emen sa iyang kahimtang.Og wala gyud mibiya si mama nene kaniya. KUMUKOTIKUTITAP! Og kay si papa emen pud iyang sige pangitaon si mama nene. KUMUKOTIKUTITAP! Og taudtaud ako silang makita nga magkinuptanay. KUMUKOTIKUTITAP! Og kon makita gani ni mama nene si papa emen nga mag-agay-agay sa kasakit mohilak dayon si mama nene kay maluoy siyag tan-aw kang papa emen. Moingon ko kang mama nene nga ayaw hilak ma, og mutubag siya, luoy man si papa nimo (dayon maghibi si mama nene). KUMUKOTIKUTITAP na pag-ibig parang bituin sa langit.

Buotan kaayo akong papa emen ug mama nene. Nagkahigugmaay gyud sila pag-ayo. KUMUKOTIKUTITAP! Palangga kaayo ni papa ang akong mama. Ginabalikbalik ni mama nene sa pag-ingon kanako nga buotan kaayo si papa emen kaniya. Palangga pud kaayo ni mama nene si papa emen.Tungod sa ilang grabe nga gugma sa usag-usa ila akong naambitan niini. Mao nga dako gyud kaayong grasya nga gikan sa Dios nga nakaambit ko sa ilang panaghigugmaay. KUMUKOTIKUTITAP gyud nga gugma nga daw bitoon sa kalangitan. Si mama nene limtanon na apan usa sa dili niya malimtan mao ang pag-injection og

insulin kang papa emen nga diabetic. Og si papa emen pud ang magpainom kang mama nene sa iyang mga tambal kay malimtan lagi ni mama nene kon nakainom na ba siya o wala pa sang bulong. KUMUKOTIKUTITAP! Kon magmerkado na gani si papa emen ang gabuhaton dayon ni mama nene naa siya sige sa pultahan sa balay ug siging sil-ip sa bintana kay gapaabot sa pagbalik ni papa emen. KUMUKOTIKUTITAP!

Sa pagkakaron, 78 na ang panuigon ni mama nene og klaro kaayo sa iyang panagway nga grabe gyud ang iyang kamingaw kang papa emen. Apan mabatyagan gyud pud nako nga gapaningkamot si mama nene malipay para sa iyang pamilya bisan wala na si papa emen sa iyang kiliran. KUMUKOTIKUTITAP! Ako pud gapaningkamot nga ubanan si mama nene tungod kay sakit para kanako nga

namatay si papa emen apan sigurado akong mas sakit alang kang mama nene nga wala na si papa tungod sa kataas sa ilang panag-uban ug pagminahalay. KUMUKOTIKUTITAP!

Maluoy ko kang mama nene kay wala na si papa emen apan makaibog ang ilang gugma sa usag-usa. Kabulahan ba gyud kaayo nako nga sila emen ug nene ang akong papa ug mama. Gusto ko nga dili na unta mi magbuwag, apan ang Dios ra man ang mas nasayud sa tanan. KUMUKOTIKUTITAP! Anaa sa Dios ang atong kaluwasan, dili ba? Mao nga sige gyud kong hangyo sa Ginoo nga bisan unsa man gani mahitabo hinaut unta nga magkatigom ra ming pamilya ni papa emen ugma damlag uban Kaniya sa langit. Nagatuo gyud ako nga ang gugma ni papa emen ug ni mama nene nga akong naambitan dili gyud angay matapos lang sa kamatayon tungod kay ang gugma sa Dios kanunayng buhi ug KUMUKOTIKUTITAP! Tinuod patay na lagi si papa emen apan ang gugma nila ni mama nene kanunayng buhi kay kini gugma man sa Dios nga KUMUKOTIKUTITAP!

Sugod pagkamatay ni papa emen, gauban mi ni mama nene sa pagkatulog sa ilang higdaanan ni papa emen. (alang wala naman ang senior di ang junior ang mopuli ug kami na pud ang ga-holding hands ni mama nene). Pagmata namo sa buntag magdungan dayon mi ni mama nene pag-ampo para kang papa emen.Sa dihang mananghid na gani ko nga mulakaw kay aduna koy misa makita dayon nako ang dagway ni mama nene nga kahilakon daw gusto ko niya nga mobalik dayon. KUMUKOTIKUTITAP! (Balik pud dayon ko...nan padayon ang KUMUKOTIKUTITAP nga Gugma sa Dios!)

Si papa emen ang STAR ng aking buhay. Si mama nene ang BITOON sa akong kinabuhi. Sila ang mga bitoon nga KUMUKOTIKUTITAP. Their love is forever- KUMUKOTIKUTITAP!

Mao kini ang ebanghelyo sa gugma tali ni papa emen ug mama nene nga akong nasaksihan! (Daygon Ikaw Kristo!) n

NGANONG NAGKADAGHAN MAN ANG MOAPIL SA PROSESYON SA JESUS NAZARENO UNA TUNGOD KAY ADUNA MAN GAYOY MILAGRO DAGHAN MASAKITON NANGAAYO GUMIKAN SA DAKO NILA NGA PAGTOO. kining pagtambong sa katawhan nga minilyon iya kini sa gahum nga langitnon usa ka pagpahinumdum sa kalibutan igsoon si Kristo sa iyang panahon gihugupan sa dako nga panon. IYANG GIPILI ANG ITOM NGA NAZARENO PAGPAUBOS KINI AMIGO KAY SA ITOM NGA BULOK DAGHAN ANG DILI KAGUSTO MENSAHI SA DIOS NGA KITA DILI MAGPAGARBO. ug sa bagang katiguman ang kamatayon dili kalikayan apan ang namatay siya bulahan kay mitaliwan man ang Dios iyang nauban. ANG KALIHOKAN DI ANGAY SAWAYON KON MAY MOABOT NGA KAMATAYON KAY ANG TAWO MAMATAY GAYOD IGSOON BULAHAN ANG NAMATAY NGA WALA NAGKAON. kita mga Pilipinhon gitawag na ang Israel sa bag-ong panahon kay diha sa pag-ampo, pyesta ug mga debosyon kita sa tanang nasod nag-una igsoon. KARON BAG-O NAGBISITA SI PAPA FRANCISCO DIIN GIHUGUPAN SA MINILYON KA MGA PILPINO ANG MGA NASOD SA KALIBUTAN DILI MAKATOO NGA INGON NIADTO KADAGHAN NGA UNTA ADUNA MAY BAGYO. kon ikaw tinood nga tinun-an ikaw magtahud ug morespeto bisan lahi nga simbahan apan nganong puno sa kasina ug dumot ang galamhan nga unta gugma man ang gitudlo sa Dios sa kagahuman. ANG TAWAG SA GUGMA UG KAMALOLOY-ON MAO USAB ANG PAG-AWAY SA KAHAKUG UG Seor Jesus Nazareno

by Merlina M. CabanlitMokabat sa 213 ka mga kabataan ang gibunyagan ni Fr. Aurelio Jaranilla atol sa pagsaulog sa kapistahan sa Immaculada Concepcion niadtong Disyembre 8, 2014 sa San Vicente Ferrer Parish Church, Libertad, Misamis Oriental.Ang Amnesty Baptism maoy usa ka

by Maria Rowena PaaEvery year, the Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, Bugo, usually organize gift -giving and feeding program for the less privileged residents of the area during Pasko sa Parokya. Last December 30, 2014, Rev. Fr. Allan Chabit organized mass wedding to 57 couples presided by the parochial vicar, Rev. Fr. Roger Almonia, SSJV. He was assisted by the

Amnesty Baptism Gipasiugda

Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish Organized Mass Wedding

pribilihiyo nga gihatag Simbahan ngadto sa mga ginikanan nga mabunyagan ang ilang mga anak bisan pa man kon sila wala makasal sa simbahan, niadtong nagpuyo-puyo, ug wala makadawat sa serbisyo sa simbahan tungod sa mga kabilinggan.Daghan ang nangalipay niini nga talagsaong kalihokan sa parokya busa dako ang pagpasalamat sa mga parokyano nga nakadawat niini nga sakramento. Si Mrs. Chenie Lou A. Calam, usa sa mga ginikanan nga nakadawat sa maong pribilihiyo miingon: Gipaningkamotan gyud nako nga makaapil ang akong anak sa maong pagpamunyag samtang nagtigum pa kaming magti-ayon para sa among pagpakasal sa Simbahan; ug dako ang akong pagpasalamat nga adunay sama niini nga kahigayonan nga gihatag ang Simbahan. nChristian Family and Life Apostolate members who spearheaded the activity. After the ceremony, the couples were treated to a simple wedding reception.In the afternoon, the Sacrament of Baptism was administered by Fr. Chabit to 190 children. All parish workers joyfully shared their time, talents and treasures in these activities which culminated the pastoral year 2014, the Year of the Laity. n

Si Fr. Aurello Jaranilla, SSJV nagbunyag sa 213 ka mga bata.

KORAPSYON NGA KITA SA DIOS MATINUD-ANON PANGULO MAN O LUNGSORANON. kining kasamok karon sa kalibutan tungod kini sa dumot ug kasuko sa matag galamhan niini ang kalibutan limpyohan aron kining buhilaman maanindot puy-an. KANUNAY NATO HINUMDUMAN IGSOON ANG DIOS KINABUHI DILI KAMATAYON NGA KON ADUNAY PAGAPATYON ANG YAWA RA ANG MAGMALIPAYON. ug aron ang kalinaw maangkon ang batakang prinsipyo atong sabton nga sanglit gikan kita sa Amahang Langitnon maghigugmaay kita isip usa ka pamilya ug mga magsoon. ANAK PAGBINUOTAN GAYOD SA PAG-ESKWELA SA MGA BISYO UG DRUGA AYAW PALINGLA KAY SA IMONG UGMA SIYA MOGUBA ANG MGA SAKRIPISYO SA PAPA UG MAMA PALIHUG HUNAHUNAA.

Members of the Pauline Family during the feast of the Conversion of Saint Paul

LAMDAGJanuary 16 - March 16, 2015

7

Kapistahan sa Pangilin ni Sr. Santo Nio Gidagsa sa mga Nagdeboto

Si Fr. Nestor Caduyag, Sr. Sanchito Ricarde uban sa mga kaparian atol sa kapistahan sa Sto. Nio

Magtrayo, SSJV uban nila ni Rev. Fr. Florentino Boy Galdo, CS, Rev. Fr. Celso Bagabaldo, CSJBP, ug Rev. Fr. Nestor Caduyag, SSJV (Parish Priest).Human sa kasaulogan sa Santos nga Misa gipahagayon usab ang pagpahalok sa imahen sa Batang Balaan Sr. Santo Nio sa mga nagdeboto niini ug ang pagpanalangin sa mga kabataan. Nanghatag usab sa mga pagkaon ngadto sa mga katawhan nga nibisita sa kombento agig dalit sa ilang pagduaw ug pagduyog sa kasaulogan.Sa paglangkob agig pagtapos sa kapistahan, gipahigayon ang SAKAY-SAKAY 2015 sa adlwang Lunes, Enero 19, pinaagi sa santos nga misa ug prosisyon didto sa Jose Pelaez-Roa Park sa ning lungsod sa Balingasag. Gipangunahan ni Rev. Fr. Sanchito Ricarde, SSJV (Parish Vicar) uban nila ni Rev. Fr. Lino Macatol II, SSJV, Rev. Fr. Florentino Boy Galdo, CS, Rev. Fr. Celso Bagabaldo, CSJBP, ug Rev. Fr. Nestor Caduyag, SSJV (Parish Priest). Human sa Santos Misa gisunod dayon ang pag-prosisyon sa imahen ni Sr. Santo Nio padulong ngadto sa kadagatan uban sa mga sakyanan pangdagat ug pagpangalin sa tanan sakayan ug mga imahen sa Sr. Santo Nio nga gipadala sa mga nga deboto niini. n

The highlight of the Feast of Sto. Nio was the Eucharistic celebration presided over by Fr. Roel Buntol, SSJV, the parish priest on January 25, 2015, at Sto. Nio de Oro Parish, Limketkai Drive, Cogon, Cagayan de Oro City. Fr. Elcon Magtrayo, SSJV, the parochial vicar assisted him. Fr. Buntol said that in celebrating the Feast of Sto. Nio, the spirit of Christmas season is extended. On Christmas night, the cry of the infant Jesus lying in the manger cut through the stillness of that cold winter night. But that should not be the cry that one should hear as we gaze upon the face of God. Let us listen to the cry of the thousands of children around the world who are crying

because of maltreatment and abuse, he said.He pointed out the many innocent children who suffer from dysfunctional families in our society today. They are deprived of the love of their parents who are drowned by the greed of a culture that does not promote life. Some are killed even before they are born, others are neglected and left alone. Many are victims of illegal drugs, human trafficking and prostitution. And there are those who carry guns to advance an ideology that they do not understand.During the procession, people who carried their statues of the Sto. Nio in different sizes and color as they danced and chanted: VIVA PIT SENOR! (Lamdag News)

Ang mga deboto ni Seor Santo Nio

Feast of Sto. Nio Celebrated

Aljun FermoBALINGASAG, Misamis Oriental - Gisaulog sa mga nagdeboto ang Kapistahan sa Pangilin sa Batang Balaan Sr. Santo Nionga puno sa kadasig, pagmaya, ug pagdayeg dinhi sa lungsod niadtong Enero 17-18 tuig 2015.Taliwala sa hadla ug mga pagsulay sa lungsod sa Balingasag nga nakasinati sa epekto sa Bagyong Senyang sa nakalabay nga bulan (December 29, 2014, wala gihapon mihunong sa pagpasalamat ug pagdayeg ang mga katawhan ngadto sa kahitas-an sa tanang mga grasya nga nadawat. Misamot hinoon ang kadasig ug gihugtan pa ang

pagtoo ug paghigugma sa Batang Balaan Sr. Santo Nio aron saulogan ang kapistahan niini.Sa naandan matag tuig gidagsaan kini sa mga katawhan ug mga dumodoong nga nagdeboto nga miduyog sa mga kalihukang Kristohanon atol sa maong kasaulogan. Gisugdan ang maong kalihukan sa kapistahan pinaagi sa Novena-Misa nga nagsugod niadtong Enero 9 hangtod Enero 18 matag alas 5 sa Buntag sa Parokya ni Santa Rita de Cascia.Gipahigayon usab ang Con-celabrated Mass niadtong Enero 18, 2015, adlawng Domingo, sa alas 10 sa buntag nga gipangulohan ni Rev. Fr. Eddie

ni Monet P. CabudoyMalampusong gisaulog ang kapistahan ni Jesus Nazareno niadtong January 9, 2015 diha sa santos nga misa nga gipangunahan ni Arsobispo J. Ledesma, SJ, DD uban ni Msgr. Rey Monsanto, ug Fr. Allan Pulgo, SSJV, ang kura paroko sa parokya sa Jesus Nazareno.

Diha sa iyang homiliya, nag-ingon si Arsobispo Ledesma nga ang kasaulogan sa kapistahan ni Jesus Nazareno nagpadayon ug pagpadayag ang Dios diha sa iyang pagkatawo sa kalibutan. Nagsakripisyo ang Jesus Nazareno diha sa paghalad sa iyang kaugalingong kinabuhi alang sa kaluwasan sa tibuok katawhan. Gipahinumduman

usab niya ng katawahan nga karong tuiga, mao ang tuig sa mga kabos diin giawhag ang tanan sa pakiglambigit sa kinabuhi sa mga kabos pinaagi sa pag-alagad ug pagtabang sa ilang mga gikinahanglan.Naghisgot usab siya sa Bangsamoro Basic Law ug nanghinaut nga mapirmahan na sa Kongreso aron niini mamugna na ang kultura sa kalinaw dinhi sa Mindanao. Miingon usab siya nga ipaambit sa Mahal nga Santo Papa ang kaluoy, kalinaw ug gugma sa Dios sa iyang pag-duaw dinhi sa atong nasod. Sa Bisperas sa pista gihimo ang bihilya sa Liturhiya sa Pelaez Sports Center ug sa alas-4 sa kaadlawon nagsugod ang prosesyon uban sa bagang duot sa katawhan padulong sa Simbahan sa Jesus Nazareno. n

Ang Kapistahan ni Jesus Nazareno Nagmalampuson

Ang mga deboto ni Senor Jesus Nazareno

The Feast of the Conversion of St. Paul was celebrated on January 25, 2015 during the Eucharistic celebration presided by Fr. Ferdinand Dagcuta, CRSP, Fatima Chapel, A. Velez St., Cagayan de Oro City. It was attended by the members of the Pauline Family: Daughters of St. Paul, Institute of Our Lady of the Annunciation and the Association of Pauline Cooperators. In his homily, Fr. Dagcuta

pointed out that St. Paul is the model for everyone to reach perfection. He invited them to continue to live the faith as missionaries of the new generation, to be beacons of faith to those who wander in the dark. He assured the assembly that God is always present in ones journey so theres nothing to fear. He urged them to continue to strain forward because no one can separate us from the love of God. n

Conversion of St. Paul Celebrated

Cursillo 48th Grand Ultreya and Annual Reunion Held

Si Fr. Richard John Deloso uban ang mga membro sa Cursillo.

by Elnora R. Abuel

The Cursillo 48th Grand Ultreya and annual reunion was held on December 13, 2014 at the House of the Golden Cross, Malasag, Cugman, Cagayan de Oro City.

A concelebrated mass was presided by Msgr. Jacinto Abelardo S. Cabillan, SSJV, Cursillo Spiritual Director, with Fr. Gil Escalante, Msgr.

Eutequiano Legitimas, Rev. Fr. Pedro Sombilon and Fr. Richard John Deloso. Fr. Escalante gave the homily on the theme: Working Towards Structuring Christian and Life, the Cursillo Way.

The event was highlighted with the search and coronation of Bro. Paul and Ms. Mary Jean Arana, the new Cursillo King and Queen 2014. The proceeds of the activity will be used for

the fencing of the Cursillo area where the Golden Cross is located. This is also the house where formation and seminars were conducted for the last 49 years. The seeds of faith were planted and had grown in the hearts of Cursillo graduates. Through the different working committees with its president, Bro. Jun Bollozos, the celebration was successful. n

ST. AUGUSTINE... p.1to the laity and support their spiritual growth will continue. This monthly activity is held every 4th Wednesday of the month at 7:30 in the evening at the Metropolitan Cathedral. On January 26-30, 2015, Msgr. Florencio P. Salvador, SSJV gave a series of Liturgical Conferences. Fr. Raul Dael, SSJV is scheduled to give a general introduction on the Beatitudes on February 25, 2015. He will expound on the theme; Blest are you which is taken from the Gospel of St. Matthew 5:3-11. The schedule of conferences and topics for the entire year are: March 25- Blest are the poor in the Spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of Heaven.April 22- Blest are they who mourn, for they will be comforted. May 27- Blest are the meek, for they will inherit the land. June 24-Blest are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied. July 22- Blest are the

Maristela Camaddo with the FSP Sisters at Quirino Grandstand

Pope Francis with the Families at Mall of Asia Arena

merciful for they will be shown mercy. August 26-Blest are the clean of heart, for they shall see God. September 23- Blest are the peacemakers for they will be called children of God. October 28- Blest are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.November 25- Blest are you when they insult you persecute you and utter every kind of evil against you because of me, rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven. Archbishop Antonio J. Ledesma, SJ, DD will close the Year of the Poor and open the New Years theme.Hand, on hand with this initiative, the Parish Pastoral Care program (PPCP) will also continue. This is an immersion program of the Cathedral parish. All Ad Intra ministries, Ad Extra Ministries and Lay Ecclesial Movements will make a concerted effort to reach out to all possible areas needing pastoral services. All religious organizations and movements are empowered to make this

Year of the Poor memorable in parish pastoral life. The parish identified priority areas in the immersion program. They are as follows: January 5, 2015- Christmas gifts distribution to Tabang Cagayan relocation were 60 families a received gifts;January 26, 2015- Free Flu vaccination sponsored by Polymedic Hospital Administration solicited by Cathedral Parish Liturgical Environment Ministry;February 2015- all religious organizations, movements and chapels are to submit identified poorest of the poor who need pastoral services. These groups are asked to activate their own kind of charism through this pastoral immersion program. Identified areas of concern are: prison visitation, hospital visitation, feeding program through Hapag-Asa program of the archdiocese, program with the street kids, value formation for the carwash boys and their families, orphanages in the city, and psycho-social intervention to the Hall of Justice workers. (Lamdag News)

DAVAO CITY, Feb. 9, 2015 Some 750 diocesan priests from 21 dioceses in Mindanao are converging on Davao City for the 39th Diocesan Clergy of Mindanao (DCM) Convention, which runs from Feb. 9 to 11.With the theme: DCM: Reflecting on our Ministry of Mercy and Compassion to the Poor, the convention will culminate on the World Day of the Sick, Feb. 11.Registration and opening Mass was held at the San Pedro Cathedral Parish, while the sessions are held at the St. Francis Xavier Regional Major Seminary in Catalunan Grande, where many of the participants finished studying Theology.Aside from the chance to meet their classmates and fellow priests, the delegates are being updated through the talks and input from different speakers, led by the first cardinal of Mindanao,

Orlando Cardinal Quevedo from the Archdiocese of Cotabato.Davao Archbishop Romulo G. Valles, in his circular letter addressed to all parish priests and chaplains of public chapels asked for prayers for the success and fruitfulness of the DCM in the General Intercessions of the Mass from Feb. 1 to 8.The archbishop also asked the priests to organize activities related to the World Day of the Sick to highlight and to make this special day very meaningful and fruitful for the sick and for those who care for them.It was learned that the gathering was supposed to be hosted by Davao City in 2014, but was deferred due to the onslaught of super typhoon Yolanda and the Bohol earthquake in 2013. (John Frances C. Fuentes/CBCPNews)

Mindanao priests gather in Davao

750 diocesan priests from 21 dioceses in Mindanao gather in Davao City for the 39th Diocesan Clergy of Mindanao (DCM) Convention, which runs from Feb. 9 to 11, 2015. (Photo: John Frances Fuentes)

POPE FRANCIS... p.1

mga ginikinan giaghat usab sa pagbuhat ug damgo sa ilang mga anak nga lalake ug mga anak nga babaye samtang sila diha pa sa sabakan sa siyam ka bulan. Dili mahimo nga adunay usa ka pamilya nga walay damgo nga iyang giya ug panag-ingnan. Kay kon kita mawad-an niini nga kapasidad sa pagdamgo,mawad-an usab kita sa kapasidad sa paghigugma. Kini mao ang importante kaayo sa damgo ug ilabi na sa damgo diha sa pamilya.At the Encounter with the Youths at University of Santo Tomas (UST), Pope Francis set aside his prepared speech and delivered and impromptu message in response to the questions of Glyzelle Palomar, a former homeless child and now under the care of Tulay Foundation. He pointed out the need to learn how to weep, to cry for the marginalized, discarded, those who have drug problem, and who suffered abuse. We have to learn how to weep; we have to learn how to cry like Jesus in the Gospel. He cried for his dear friend, for a family that had lost its child, for a poor widow who buried her son, he said.Pope Francis said that theres nothing wrong with so much information, having gadgets as long as the young know how to love in order that information may bear fruit. He encouraged them to offer their lives to the renewal of society and help build a better world.Five young people from the archdiocese shared their thoughts and feelings.

Celine Borja said that she felt blessed to be one of the delegates to the Papal Visit. I saw Pope Francis in person and witnessed his mercy and compassion.

I heard his inspiring messages and instilled

them in my mind and heart.Janus of Tagoloan shared that he was grateful for the privilege to be present and personally saw the Vicar of Christ. I am challenged to be

merciful and compassionate to others. It is a challenge to be put in action and prayed over. My encounter with the Pope is like an encounter with Jesus.

Chloe Marlowe Alaba said that the encounter with the Pope is the most precious gift she has ever received in her life. God sent me into this holy event for He knows my greatest needs, to listen and interact. The Pope is the visible blessing and identification that God is truly alive.

Precy Tom Cabanes shared that the experience was so amazing that I could no longer explain how it feels. It inspired me to be a better and more responsible Filipino youth. Pope Francis touched me when he said: Dont be afraid to cry.Young people in time of distress, pain and trouble would prefer to hide their true feelings just to show to everyone that nothing is wrong and everything is fine.

Verna Joy Pagaling shared that she experienced that unexplainable peace and happiness in her heart-- not just because she saw Pope Francis, Christs Vicar but because she encountered Jesus Christ in Him. Could you imagine, when his

mobile passed by in front of us, seeing him clearly, his genuine smile, his reassuring wave- I cried, a lot actually! I could not contain the joy I felt in my heart when I saw him passing by. What more when I heard his voice. It was the peak, more than just seeing him I was so blessed to be able to hear his words for the young ones. At the Quirino

Grandstand, Pope Francis reminded the people of their identity, as Gods children. The Philippines, being a Catholic country in Asia is a special gift of God, a blessing. God chose the Filipinos to be witnesses of his truth and justice in the world. In our day, the family often needs to be protected against insidious attacks and programs contrary to all that we hold true and sacred, all that is most beautiful and noble in our culture, he said. We need to care for our young people, not allowing them to be robbed of hope and condemned to life in the streets. The Pope entrusted the Filipino people to Jesus, to the Sto. Nino to work together and protecting one another in building a world of justice, integrity and peace. Tacloban Pilgrimage

Ms. Tessie Salcedo of San Lorenzo Ruiz Chinese Catholic Community, Cagayan de Oro shared: Seeing the Pope in person was far from my imagination and so, through the persistent invitation of a friend, I gave in, since I told myself, going to Vatican, I cannot afford and even if I can, there is no guarantee I can see Pope Francis. Going to Tacloban was sort of seeing the actual damage brought by typhoon Yolanda last 2013.

From where we stood, it looks like Pope Francis was barely 2 meters away from us. We really saw and felt his blessing. On his way back to the airport from Palo, again we saw him and blessed all of us. I must say that the Tacloban pilgrimage was worth all the inconveniences and the signal #2 typhoon. And we had to hike or walk more as our vehicle was not allowed to enter to pick us up. The wind and the rain somehow did not deter from feeling great seeing the pope in person. Pope Francis is really an example of true compassion. He said mass in an open field, somehow feeling of how it was during the typhoon Yolanda hit Tacloban. He truly loves his people. n

of our brothers and sisters. Thus, one can see things in new light and respond with honesty and integrity to the challenge of proclaiming the radicalism of the Gospel. The Pope urged them to proclaim the joy and beauty of the Gospel to the young people who may be confused, to be present to those burdened by poverty and corruption and to those confused by presentations of sexuality, marriage and family. (Full texts of the reflections of the representatives to the Papal Visit are found on page 4).

Sr. Elsie Nini, FdCC, chairperson of Association of Women Religious of the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro (AWRACO) shared that the moment she saw the pope walking towards the altar of the Manila Cathedral, she could not understand her feelings. I felt awe and wonder at the presence of Christ in the Holy Father. The dominant feeling was gratitude for having such a once-in-a lifetime chance to see the Holy Father in person. Then she said to herself: I am blessed! I am really blessed!

Sr. Perla Balbastro, DC of Migrant Ministry shared; No pain may water down the JOY of the Gospel! Pope Francis, up to this point gave us a taste of Him, who even if hanging on the cross, came to us, as the Gospel said, on January 16, 2015, touched us, hugged us, all of us who were sick, elderly, poor, in need, in His Church in the Philippines. This was just the beginning touch for me.

In the Mall of Asia Arena, he told the families that it is important to dream as a family so that the capacity to love and the energy to love is always there. He said that countless families are still suffering from the effects of natural disaster. The economic situation has caused families to be separated by migration and others are caught up in materialism and lifestyles which are destructive of family life.He said that family is threatened by the new image of marriage, by relativism, by the culture of ephemeral, by lack of openness to life. He asked them to pray and ask the intercession of Mary and Joseph, model for Jesus as He grew in wisdom, age and grace.Gilda Pates of Prison Ministry was touched when the pope embraced the persons with disability. Dili mapugngan ang

akong mga luha, lahi kaayo ang kong gibati ilabi na gayod sa iyang paggakos sa mga tawo nga may mga kapansanan, ang pagkuha niya sa mga bata ug paghalok sa mga masakiton, makita gyud ang iyang pagka-amahan sa tanan.

Charlie Lorzano of World Associaton of Fatima shared that he was struck of Pope Francis call to be truly committed to the family by giving full attention and time to dream with the family. Importante nga magbaton kita ug damgo sa pamilya. Ang

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