what is mercury - sabang church of christ disciples€¦ · web viewaugust 2009 volume 7, number...

MONTHLY PUBLICATION OF SABANG CHURCH OF CHRIST DISCIPLES

SCCD 83rd Founding Anniversary

August 2009 Volume 7, Number 8

Three years after SCCD moved to the new church site just across her old home, God’s dream was revisited which, as Bishop Eliezer Pascua, the Anniversary Speaker said is “God’s Love.” The love of God that has been there even before SCCD was born and will continue to be manifested in the coming years. Pastor Carlos “Caloy” dela Cruz, the Anniversary Prayer Service exhorter made mention of this as the “element” that has always been there from the start – God’s dream as God’s abiding faithfulness. In Pastor Leng’s reflections as drawn from the book of Bruce Wilkinson’s “The Dream Giver,” God’s dream for SCCD and the whole world is “to heal it.” Thus, this was revisited, relished and savored by the whole church community in order to bounce higher for the glory of God through a life of mission. The activities that highlighted the month-long celebration were as follows:

Anniversary Prayer Service and Love Banquet. Held on the Wednesday of the Anniversary Week, July 22, the 50 “pray-ers” who came were moved by the sight of kindreds in pairs feeding each other with bread dipped in wine then lifted up to the Lord unresolved hurts between them, thus, forgiving each other. This proved to be a “cleansing act” for the whole church laying down before God things that could hinder the journey. Pastor Caloy in his exhortation led the church in reminiscing what has been in the life of SCCD while he was its pastor using the picture of Moses watching Canaan from afar just before its conquest. The Love Banquet that followed this exhortation, which actually is feeding and praying in pairs had a strong impact to those who came. Some even suggested that it be made a regular discipline occasionally in church so as forgiveness would be experienced in the spirit of prayer.

Viewing of SCCD History and Greetings from Members and Friends Abroad. Seeing the images of SCCD moving from the old site to the new place termed as “Lupang Kaloob” (Gift of Land) in July 2006 brought tears to many who came on the evening of viewing the SCCD History on Thursday, July 23, 2009. This was

what was missed out in the last two years viewing of SCCD History in powerpoint, the last Sunday in the old church site and the transfer of the cross to the new sanctuary. It was agreed that this review of history be a yearly activity in order to instill in the hearts of church members especially the young ones the humble beginnings of SCCD. Greetings from members abroad in video were viewed and the emails were read. Those who sent their greetings included Sammy/Ruby Cantada, Kristine Kae Frani from Canada; Loui and Maxine Landicho, Milan/Vilma Frani, Efren Frani, Nene Frani, Esther Remulla, Rev. Rusty Eidmann-Hicks, Debbie Shields/Bob Feldman of UCC Holmdel from the U.S.; Alex/Cynthia Constantino and Susan Mendez from Singapore; Letth Lubang-Seah from Australia and the Lowland Cavite South Manila Office of the Conference Minister. Others might have found difficulty accessing the Youtube or gathered on the Anniversary Sunday itself like the Los Angeles, CA group.

Dedication of the Basketball Half Court. A project initiated by the United Church Men which cost about P18,000.00, this half court was dedicated on Saturday, July 25, 2009 with a ceremonial shoot of Pastor Bea and toss by Pastor Leng and followed by an Exhibition Game (dubbed as “honest game” having no referee at hand) between the UCM and CYAF/CYF. This court is very valuable in strengthening SCCD’s Sports Ministry as well as DLA’s Athletic Program

Launching of the Project Nehemiah 5b Bamboo and Bricks. Interwoven with the personal testimony of the Finance Secretary Evelyn Sapida, the Project Nehemiah 5b Bamboo and Bricks was launched on July 19, 2009. This is a one year fund generation campaign targeting the amount of at least P200,000.00 for the

d’newsnewsDON PLACIDO CAMPOS AVE., SABANG, DASMARINAS, CAVITE 4114,PHILIPPINES TEL NO : 416-0221

MONTLY PUBLICATION OF SABANG CHURCH OF CHRIST DISCIPLES

plastering/waterproofing works of the chancel exterior wall area as well as its interior finishing works. A 5’ x 4’ miniature wall design with bamboo borders was set up in the right side corner of the chancel area which will serve as the project symbol.

Wooden bricks at P500.00 each may be taken and mounted on this miniature wall until the whole space is covered. Anyone may pledge as many bricks as they could with donations given by installment for one year. The bamboos are coinbanks where even children could drop but preferably bigger coin denominations of P5.00 or P10.00. To date an amount of P2,050.00 had been received for this project. Work will begin as soon as enough funds are collected as rainwater leak on the said wall needs to be addressed in the soonest possible time.

Site Dedication for the SCCD Memorial Garden. An hour before the Anniversary Sunday Worship on July 26, 2009 the site for SCCD Memorial Garden was dedicated with the rituals of

“Laying of Time Capsule”, “Banging of the Old Church Bell” that would be made part of the Damaso Tirona Memorial Marker and the “Pouring of Water” on the baptismal pool site by the Elders and the Pastoral Team. The site is located on the corner frontage area northside adjacent to the Fauni (Milan) property. In the Master Plan this is hoped to be done by 2011 on time for SCCD’s 85th Anniversary or earlier according to God’s direction.

Anniversary Sunday Worship. Bishop Eliezer Pascua, General Secretary of the UCCP graced this occasion as Anniversary Speaker sharing insights on the theme drawing from the passages in Nehemiah and Ephesians. He cited experiences of some UCCP churches in Mindanao who faced terrorists’ attacks last year yet kept on with the faith praying and singing praises to God. He admonished SCCD to keep the flame of faith alive as demonstrated by these kindred in order that God’s dream, which is God’s love would be lived out. The installation of Pastor Bea Hernandez was also incorporated in this worship experience with both Bishop Pascua and CM Emergencio Padillo officiating. The household of Pastor Bea which included her family of origin – mother and siblings were present to witness this installation, as well as their two children of Pastor Ronell, Robee and Brian. In this Anniversary Worship, the singing of the Anthem by the All Choirs of SCCD touched peoples’ hearts especially the SCCD Family

who has seen how the disciplining process of God on the old choir gave birth to three new singing groups – Jesus’ Kids Choir, Youth Choir and Chancel Choir.

All CROs Bayanihan. As had been the church tradition every time there are special occasions, the various church organizations gather a day before to do general cleaning inside and out of the church building, from children to adults. The women were in the kitchen preparing the food, men in the church grounds clearing the garden, young people lending a hand and children “watching” but available as errand boys and girls. This is one of the strengths of SCCD, thus, described as a very “alive church” in the Annual Session in May by the delegates who came. Harvesting of young coconut from the three coconut trees in the church yard is a highlight of the day.

Potluck Luncheon Fellowship. Opened by a testimonial song from Serenity Residents (a special ministry of SCCD since 2004 with Pastor Leng as its spiritual adviser), the Potluck Luncheon Fellowship rolled over amid the rains. Each group presented what they prepared very well from the Jesus’ Kids Choir to the DLA School Choir, CYF, Young Adults and of course the United Church Men whose skit portraying God’s dream of SCCD in terms of evangelism really made the day. There were lots of door prizes raffled out courtesy of the Young Adults group. The CYF proved once again that they rally have taken hold the baton of leading programs as emcees and songleaders under the coordination of their president, Princess Mabbatung. An improvised cake made by the Sunday school kids under the guidance of Pastor Bea culminated this fellowship with the blowing of the candle by the youngest child present, Brianna Almanzor, 2nd child of Wilson and Bea. Food flowed on this day prepared by the Christian Women Association courtesy of the following generous donors. This Anniversary celebration gathered a total amount of P27,602.00 from donations of members here and abroad and spent P26,467.00 in various expenses primary of which is food. Praises be to God to Trustee Cecille Mendoza who chaired this important event.

Alex and Cynthia Constantino Milan FraniAnn Ferrer Monette AbasBriz Family Monina FraniCarleng Fauni Family Nanette BarzagaCecille Mendoza Nene NatyCena Espejo Nitz CahiganConching Toledo Nora SaritaCresencia Lorico Nureng RemullaDLA Pamela RaycoDyna Bolotaolo Pastor Leng LubangEllen Baysa Rene CatadaElsa Fauni Rey & Tess CandelariaEmma Acuña Roger & Taleng CantadaEttie Frani Romeo RemullaJo Ann Samonte Rose SapidaJocelyn Mendoza Rose Tumitit

Joey Belmonte Rosie TabingJuliet Dayrit Sammy and Ruby CantadaJuling Cajudo Susan MabbatungJun & Miriam Gerero Tina TironaJun and Elma Belostrino Toying FauniLeony Saquilayan Violy FauniLetty Sapida Virgilio and Priscilla HayagLina Reyes Wilma PelagioLiza Fauni Yayie VillanuevaMameng Pasion

Sowers and Reapers of God’s GraceThe lectionary theme for August which is Mission Month in the UCCP calendar that was initially reported to the Board of Elders was “Sowers of God’s Grace,” an imagery of God’s servants doing the act of sowing or planting and God making the seeds grow. The Apostle Paul described this process in his letter to the Corinthians, “I planted, Apollos watered but God gave their growth. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything but only God who gives the growth.” (1 Corinthians 3:6,7) But as I went along in the study of the theme and looking for Scriptural passages for each sub-theme, I realize that the picture would be more complete if the act of reaping is added, thus, “Sowers and Reapers of God’s Grace.”

The gospels described the harvest field as ripe for reaping but the workers are few (Matthew 9:37) and John especially pointed out the partnership between sower and reaper when he wrote, “The reaper is already receiving wages and is gathering fruit for eternal life, so that sower and reaper may rejoice together.” No one is above the other in the nature of work for both are recipients of God’s grace. As Titus wrote, “For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all.” (Titus 2:11) and Jesus himself said, “for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good and sends rain on the righteous and on the unrighteous.” (Matthew 5:45) Therefore, in approaching the threshold of God’s field to heed the call to work either as planter or reaper, everyone must realize the undeserving favor we are receiving. It is not all about us, the heavy effort exerted to finish the work but all about God’s grace, God’s unconditional love.

SCCD just celebrated her 83rd Founding Anniversary a week ago. The celebration is an apt reminder of this truth, God’s grace overflowing to all, members or non-members, churched or unchurched, righteous or unrighteous. No one has monopoly of this grace flowing freely from God and is not bound on any particular time. The grace that was sown 83 years ago to the church forebears continue to flow to the present generation and it’s not because of the church pioneers’ goodness or

faithfulness nor the present generation’s giftedness but because of God’s grace. Truly, “neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything but only God who gives the growth.”

God’s grace then is like water flowing in the river that no matter how much you impede its flow, it is so powerful that it would break walls and would continue to run its course watering everything on which it passes through. No humans made such natural process but only God the Creator. The same is true in the life of faith and service. The grace of God is something that passes through our lives despite our sinfulness causing transformation and growth. And the experience of being made alive and fresh moves us to let such taste of kindness and freedom be savored also by others. This spirit of letting others feast on the goodness of God that we have experienced gives ardor to church mission programs. Thus, we plant with excitement, zeal and love that all come from God. That no matter how much difficulty we face in sowing the seeds of God’s kindness, we keep on because God’s grace cannot truly be thwarted. The sowing then leads to reaping and the reaping anticipates another season of sowing.

There is so much seeds waiting to be sown stored in SCCD’s barn but not enough workers have appeared in the threshold to say “Yes” to God’s call. When I started as pastor of this church in 2004 there were only about 140 adults and about 30 Sunday school kids in the church fold that need to be nurtured. Five years later there’s now close to an average of 200 active regular members coming to Sunday worship services and that of the children have tripled. Some of these kids and adults are products of the Outreach Work which is not even that systematic nor well monitored yet due to lack of workers. They just came! The grace of God passed through their hearts. My kindred in Christ, the seeds of God’s grace are waiting to be sown for each of our own sake towards our own growth. Non-heeding of God’s call is depriving our spiritual lives of nourishment that would enliven our faith. We are called to sow seeds of life that we may reap abundantly.

Lectionary and Schedule of Preachers for AugustTheme

“Sowers and Reapers of God’s Grace” John 4:36 2 “God’s Grace: Offered to all Humankind”

OT: Psalm 25 NT: Titus 2:11-15Preacher: Pastor Leng Lubang

9 “Sowing: A Human Act, Divinely Blessed”OT: Isaiah 32:9-20 NT: John 4:31-38Preacher: Pastor Ronell Hernandez

16 “Seeds of the Holy Spirit Healing Brokenness”OT: Psalm 126:1-6 NT: 2 Peter 1:5-8Preacher: Pastor Bea Hernandez

23 “Nurturing Good Soil in Human Heart” OT: Ezekiel 47:7-12 NT: Matthew 13:18-23Exchange Pulpit with UCCP GMA: Rev. Veronica Estayo

30 “Reaping What is Sown”OT: Hosea 10:9-15 NT: Galatians 6:7-10Preacher: Sis. Wilma Pelagio

Thy Word is a Lamp Unto

My Feet by Pastor Ma. Beate M. Hernandez

Seeds of the Holy Spirit Healing BrokennessAdam and Eve’s miserable life began when they were

driven out from the Garden of Eden. After 7 days they began to feel hungry but found nothing. Think about how abundant life was when they were still in the Garden. It was often told that sin was put to the mouth of Adam and not Eve. In this regard, if sin comes from the head of the house, if the head of the family or household sinned, the whole family is condemned. Such accounts were the truth and life application in the Jewish beliefs; this is how it is in the Jewish understanding.

The devil is equated with the snake (Inter-testamental). It was revenge of the evil to tempt Eve because he was kicked out of his bliss. It doesn’t matter if you believe in this account which is pseudopigraphal in nature, because what matters is the discussion of how it happened, and how God moved His mighty power to liberate our lives. These friends are but pictures of brokenness. The Scripture simply tells us that brokenness may have started from a long time connection with our foreparents; it has always been with us in this life journey.

Busted out from the Garden, Adam and Eve started from where they were standing. Nehemiah prayed for strength to continue the work because opposition to rebuilding started to break down and stop the work (Nehemiah 6:9). Job declared: my skin is filled with worms and scabs, my flesh breaks open and full of pus (Job 7:5) Life so, has to do with such moments of brokenness. We all have our moments of being broken and are groaning for healing to come and break through our defenses which keeps us away from God. Being broken is not only a feeling, it may also be an event or situation where it is described as fracture, shatter, violate or transgress, to burst forth, to separate into parts, to force a way through, to disperse, an eruption, rupture or interruption in something.1 When a sperm cell fertilizes an egg, the process creates a stem cell. Stem cells, which create a human from its beginning, also participate in repairing later damage to the body. Our bodies appear to use stored stem cells to repair tissues throughout our lives. Eventually, these stem cells falter or encounter more damage than they can repair, and a person’s health fails. Because of their ability to repair tissue damage, stem cells could serve as starting points in therapy.

Such are the natural facility of the Holy Spirit. The believers and those who climb the mountain of faith will receive power and will tell people about Jesus everywhere. The Holy Spirit will help us become healers of those who are broken. Only then we become sowers of the Grace which God has already prepared for us. Jesus explains to his disciples the Parable of the Four Soils (Mark 4:10-25). The seed that fell on the hard path represents those who hear the Good News about the Kingdom and don’t understand it. Then the evil one

1 Dictionary/Concordance of Life Application Bible p. 2183

comes and snatches the seed away from their hearts. God gave the Holy Spirit in Jesus Christ during the anointing (Jordan River) and in the Ascension of Jesus (Acts 1) to his disciples and in every believer with the purpose of helping us discern false teaching (1John 2:26-27), to bring unity to believers (Eph. 4:3), help us to pray (Rom. 8:26-27). The Holy Spirit was given to heal our brokenness and make this available to others as well.

Being sowers of God’s Grace simply tells us about recognizing the power of God established through the life and work of Jesus Christ when He died on the cross (1 Cor. 10:17). It is a place where the sinner meets the savior (1 Peter 1:18) so others may experience healing and sow the grace God has given.

Sowing: A Human Action… Divinely BlessedSowing, some of us may understood and use it in relation to ground or farming. Nowadays, sowing is easily spared by its importance especially during the course of new breed of generation. Agricultural courses are being neglected by our youngsters. Some of our new generations are attracted to courses (formal studies) where their hands will never get dirty and skin never be exposed to sunlight. Will there be any move we can do to change their preferences in career path?

Looking back to the story of creation, (Genesis 1:29) God gave the seed-bearing plants and fruit bearing trees to provide not just food, more so, make available to humanity its role in partaking of life. God may give instantly food to partake but God preferred to give seed; a seed is to be scattered on the ground, watered, tilted and cultivated. However, it is also written as a result of the fall of humans (Genesis 3:17-19) the ground was cursed and before acquiring its harvest painful toil is required. The land or the ground witnessed the violence how Cain (Farmer) killed his brother Abel (Shepherd). The blood of Abel shouts for justice payable for a reason that the Lord favored Abel’s offering. And even in Israel’s history, conquering territorial land became the alternative tool to supply the need of the family or tribes.

God’s grace is sufficient, after human limitation on understanding SOWING God sends Jesus Christ to proclaim a different meaning on the word. SOWING in spiritual context, Jesus challenged (Matthew 9:35-38) everyone in different towns and villages, teaching in the synagogue, preaching and healing. Truly, Christ Jesus as a Messiah consistently did the will of God. In His missionary journey with his followers, Christ need not be contented in the disciples’ response. The word of Jesus saying “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into the harvest field”, these words are words of

Associate Pastor’s ColumnRev. Ronell Hernandez

invitation, and statement that requested the disciples to be partaker of the cost. Jesus felt bad as he saw the crowd; he had compassion on them, because these people are being harassed and helpless on which the Gospel writer Matthew allegorically used “the sheep without a shepherd,” in connection with original words of Jesus. The inspiration of the Holy Spirit as it has been witnessed and testified reveals to humanity how to respond for the glory of God.

The Apostle Paul to the Galatians 6:8b wrote “the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life”. Christians are continuously participating in spreading the seed (WORD), with a strong faith in God that it will sprout and be fruitful. John 5:34-38 assures the disciples about what Jesus has started and what they will benefit in following Christ. The crops or the harvest should be enjoyed by the sowers and the harvester. As assured by the scripture found in Hosea 10:12 “Sow yourselves righteousness, reap the fruit of unfailing love, and break up your unplowed ground; for it is time to seek the Lord, until he comes and showers righteousness on you.”

D’Newsbits Standing Committees for EY 2009-2010

constituted. The Council in its 1st regular meeting for this EY 2009-2010 on June 21, 2009 constituted the members of the various standing committees as follows according to representations:

NOMELEC BOE Miriam GereroBOT Ramon ReyesBCE Ruby SapidaBOD Allan SaquilayanCYF Princess MabbatungPersonnel CommitteeBOT Chairperson Cecille MendozaFinance Secretary Evelyn SapidaTreasurer Violy FauniChurch Workers Call CommitteeBOE Chairperson Willie RamosBOE Vice Chairperson Miriam GereroElder-at-Large (non-ruling) Emma AcunaScholarship CommitteeBCE Jo Ann SamonteDLA Ewell BarcoBOD Nanette BarzagaBOE Miriam GereroMember-at-large Lina Reyes

Anniversary CommitteeChairperson Cecille MendozaMembers UCM Joey Belmonte

CWA Miriam GereroCYAF Aileen AgapayCYF Princess MabbatungChoir Allan Saquilayan

Rice distributed in Outreach Areas. Through the generosity of Mr. and Mrs. Virgilio Hayag based in the United States, kilos of rice were distributed to about 80 households in Simborio and Daang NIA Outreaches as part of the month-long Anniversary

Celebration. This couple has been a faithful donor to SCCD’s Mission Program sending

monthly mission support and balikbayan boxes full of dry goods, clothes and shoes/slippers. SCCD awaits the arrival of a number of boxes for giving to indigent families any time now.

Church workers attend seminars and lecture series. Seminars, lectures and workshops were attended by SCCD’s church workers Pastor Leng Lubang and Pastor Bea Hernandez the past months. Pastor Bea attended the Seminar on Mercury Disposal at St. Paul’s Hospital, Dasmarinas on June 19 followed by the Annual Nutrition Seminar sponsored by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute required of Registered Nutritionists like her on July 7-8, 2009 at FNRI, Taguig. Just this past week, July 27-29 Pastor Bea was sent by the LCSMC as delegate to the UCCP Jurisdictional Level Christian Education Seminar in UCCP Youth Development Center at Filinivest, Quezon City. Pastor Leng on her part attended the Lecture Series on Spiritual Direction and Psycho-Spirituality of Sr. Janet Ruffing, a highly demanded Spiritual Director and Professor on Spirituality in Fordham University, New York City, on July 1-4, 2009 at Ateneo University. She was sponsored by Serenity House of Sobriety. Pastor Leng also attended the DepEd Executive Meeting in Island Cove on July 16, 2009 and the Cavite Alliance of Private Schools Meeting in La Salle Dasmarinas on June 19, 2009. This coming week, August 6-7 the DLA is sending Teacher Cristy Gervacio to the Early Childood Educators Seminar at Calamba, Laguna in view of the government future directions related to Early Childhood Education and the Day Care Centers which will slowly be turned over to DepEd for supervision. By 2015, all public schools according to the information shared by Dr. Macha, Cavite Private Schools Area Supervisor, will be offering Prep classes. Only classes for four years old and lower will be handled by the Day Care Centers.

Getting to Know SCCD New Members

Five new members were received on July 19, 2009 after attending two consecutive sessions of the Membership/Discovery Class on July 11 and 18, 2009. They all have expressed the desire to become part of the Membership Roster of SCCD as regular members. It is good to know them

as we walk alongside in finding their way in church. Eugene and Tess Dakis are not really “new” in

SCCD as they have been attending this church for a decade now having moved to Mary Cris Complex from Paco, Manila. They continue to preserve their loving ties with their home church UCCP Paco but distance is calling them to formalize their regular

membership at UCCP SCCD for it is here where they worship more frequently the past years. Their children Gene Paolo, Gene Karlo and Teresa Gene are products of the Disciples Learning Academy and are now actively involved in the church as members of the Choir and the CYF. It took this couple sometime to respond to invitations to membership classes as they thought that it would mean cutting their ties with their childhood church which is not. Only the classification is being addressed in this membership process especially so that we move within the same UCCP Family. Eugene is an employee of Philippine Stock Exchange while Tess manages their home fulltime.

Benward Abas was brought to SCCD community in 2005 by his wife Monneth Saquiton, a child of SCCD having been born in the churchfold. Benward grew up in a Roman Catholic family who is very open to different worship expressions and with friends bringing him to Christian Fellowships and Bible Study. Hence, it was easy for him to blend with the Protestant faith and embrace in a more personal way Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. He’s a graduate of AB Psychology from La Salle Dasmarinas and works as a Sales Consultant. He and Monneth has a 3-year old child, Herbie Isaiah and is living in Mary Cris Subdivision.

Maribeth Briz-Telan. Maribeth is just passing by SCCD as she’s also going back to the Middle East being an Overseas Filipino Worker end of July after she is received as regular member of SCCD. She came home in May this year after winding up her four years of work contract with a photo developing shop at Saudi Arabia. Her 2nd work contract will be in Abu Dhabi joining her other sister there. Maribeth is one of the children of Noel and Virginia Briz who were just recently received also as Associate Members with regular membership at UCCP Sipocot in Bicol. Maribeth’s only child, Sheila now 3 rd year high school was one of the Communicants who were baptized in April of this year.

Ephraim Pintuan. Hailing from Samar, Ephraim was led to SCCD through the outreach work of the Ramoses (Willie and Raquel) in Silvertown Homes. He came to Cavite more than a year ago after graduating in college with Bachelor of Education and prepared to take the Licensure Exam for Teachers. It took him two tries before he passed the said exam and all the time it was his worship at SCCD that provided him the strength to try again the LET after failing the first time. Nevertheless his failure according to him brought him to PLDT in Makati where he landed a regular job. He hopes to pursue teaching when the right moment comes. Ephraim brings his “kababayan”and relatives to SCCD from Samar when they are in the area.

Next Discovery/Membership Class will be in October

Amazing Grace

As I flip the pages of a dictionary to find the undefined word, I was surprised not to find it written there. Sower is nowhere to be found, so in order to arrange my dilemma I found its root word sow

meaning to plant seeds so sower means the one who plants the seeds, the farmer, in an easy manner of speaking.

So what does it really mean to speak of sowing and the sower? And where do we connect the grace part? Jesus in one of His parables speaks of the seeds sown in different places which in a profound context, we may see it as the different heart conditions or spiritual state of a person. The seeds are basically the word of God, spread and scattered. As I put it, in the parable, the sower is still God but after a hundred years and so, after Jesus Christ entrusting us with a mission, The Great Commission, we became the sower of God’s wonderful word to the field of hungry people waiting to be filled, each with different soil (heart) status.

Grace, is an unmerited favor from God, an indispensable gift from God. It is the infinite love, mercy, favor and goodwill shown by God to humanity. As we expound the meaning of this month’s theme, “Sowers of God’s Grace” we actually look deep within ourselves on how we use God’s grace and share and practice it among others, for it is with grace that we are saved through faith.

As sowers of Christ’s gift, doing our mission we encounter a lot of people with different personalities but since we, as Christians, have understood and received grace, we have the freedom to disagree without becoming disagreeable. We don’t make it our calling to fire theological volleys at people we don’t agree with. We let others be themselves without controlling them, refuse to play god and dictate to them, but allow the Lord to change them, and let them experience Grace within their lives.

By Allyan Jell Samonte

Health Section2

What is Mercury?Mercury, or in tagalong “asoge” is a constituent element of the earth, a heavy metal with a symbol Hg. It exists in a large number of atoms. In pure form it is known as “elemental” or “metallic”. Elemental mercury is a heavy, silvery white metal that is liquefied at usual temperatures and atmospheric pressures. Mercury vaporizes readily at usual temperatures. Most of the mercury encountered in the earth’s atmosphere is elemental mercury vapor. Mercury is rarely found in nature as the pure, liquid metal, but rather within compounds. Inorganic mercury compounds, such as mercuric sulfide (HgS), are called mercuric salts. Most inorganic mercury compounds are white powders or crystals, except for mercuric sulphide, which is red and turns black after exposure to light. When mercury combines with carbon, the compounds form what is called organic mercury. There is potentially large number of organic mercury in the environment; the most common is methyl mercury.

Where does mercury come from and where is it found?Mercury is released by natural sources like volcanoes, by evaporation from soil and water surfaces, as well as through the degradation of minerals and forest fires. Mercury is available on the world market from several sources such as mines as a by-product of mining or refining of other metals (such as zinc, gold, silver), minerals, and naturall gas. Recycled mercury is recoverec from spent products and waste from industial processes. Mercury is also contained as trace element in coal. In fact, coal-fired power plants are the world’s largest source of mercury emissions to the air. Mercury is also found in products such as flourescent, lamps, thermometers, dental amalgam fillings, batteries, vaccines (as preservative in form of ethyl mercury in thimerosal) and soaps and creams (as bactericide and/or whitening agent)

Why is it a CONCERN?Significant adverse impacts of mercury on human health and the environment have been documented around the world. Some populations are especially susceptible to mercury exposure, most notably the fetus, the newborn and young children because of their developing nervous systems. As an element mercury can not be DESTROYED.

2 information taken from the Seminar on Mercury Elimination and Disposal : An Issue on Cavite attended by Pastor Bea Hernandez on June 19, 2009 at St. Paul’s Hospital, Dasmarinas, Cavite sponsored by Health Care Without Harm

Mercury level in the environment have increased considerably since the on-set of the industrial age. Mercury is now present throughout the environment including our food.

What are its effect on our Health?The degree of toxicity to humans and wildlife depends on the chemical form of mercury, the amount, the exposure pathway, and the vulnerability of the person exposed. This compound readily passes the placental barrier and blood brain barrier, and is a potent neurotoxicant, which can cause adverse effect on the developing brain, children development, methyl mercury exposure may cause adverse effect on the cardiovascular system.

What are its effect in our Environment?Once mercury is released into the environment it persists

and cycles through air, water, soil and wildlife. Mercury deposited in the soil can change form into methyl mercury (through microbial action). Methyl mercury has the capacity to collect in organisms (bioaccumulate) and concentrate up food

chains (biomagnify), especially in the aquatic food chain. One thermometer when diffused in an aquatic environment can contaminate a 20acre lake. One fluorescent lighting tube contains mercury to contaminate 30,000 liters of water to an unsafe drinking level.Combustion (pagsusunog) of mercury-added products in incinerators, landfill fires and open burning of household wastes are significant contributors to mercury pollution of both local ang global ecosystems.

How might I be exposed to Mercury?Through DIET, Through BREATHING AIR, Through DRINKING WATERIn the Philippines, the main source of mercury pollution is from small scale mining (SSM). There are about 100,000 people in Luzon and Mindanao engaged in SSM. It is conservatively estimated that for every gram of gold retrieved, 2 to 5 grams of mercury are released into the environment which threathens to pollute and agricultural areas.

What are the ongoing efforts to protect the public from mercury?1. August 11, 2008 DOH issued Administrative

Order 21 mandating the gradual phase out of all mercury containing devices in hospitals and care facilities by 2010.

2. The Philippines is party to the Basel Convention, a treaty entered into force in 1992 to regulate the international generation, management and transboundary movement of hazardous wastes including mercury containing products.

3. Campaign of the Healthcare without Harm, Mercury Free Schools program of the Ban Toxics.

4. Sound management of the mercury-containing lamps by the EcoWaste Coalition.

SIMPLE STEPS to PREVENT or REDUCE EXPOSURE to MERCURY1. Eat large Fish such as swordfish, mackerel, blue marlin

etc. in MODERATION as these ware most likely to be contaminated most of mercury. If pregnant it is best to avoid these types of fishes.

2. Avoid mercury-containing products and use mercury-free alternatives.

3. If you have mercury thermometers at home wrap it securely with paper or plastic and keep it away from children.

4. If florescent bulb breaks, immediately ventilate and leave the room for several hours. In case of accidental spills, NEVER BURN, dump with ordinary waste or pour down the drain any mercury and mercury containing products.

5. Properly dispose of empty batteries, thermometers, florescent bulbs and other mercury-containing products, place them in a store room, properly labeled.

6. PUSH for manufacturers, distributors and government to ENFORCE STRICT labeling systems, mandatory producer responsibility and ULTIMATE phase out of mercury in commerce.

SUNDAY COLLECTION REPORT

BIRTHDAY CELEBRANTS

=====================

1 Augusto Abando, Araneo EstaresRonald Sapida

3 Sheila Kissy Cortez4 Chona Fauni5 Irene Rimbon, Sonny Matro &

Aaron Job Samonte6 Sixto Saquilayan7 Carleng Fauni,

Remedios Gonzales8 Chelsiea Atasha Ancheta

Herbie Isaiah Abas9 Renato Tirona10 Jeshidy Ann Tamparong,

Orlando Tapawan11 Lito Medina, Willie Ramos12 Jezreel Gervacio, Mark

Joseph Cantire13 Samson Tabiando,

Mitchell Gray Perez15 Danilo Tio, Mae Ann Frani,

Carissa Calungin16 Michelle Baroso, Shirly Luna,

Richard Castillo20 Juaning Calungin,

Juliet Dayrit, Ria Lizaso21 Emelyn Guerero, 22 Teresa Gene Dakis23 Rolando Cosme25 Ronnie Sapida,

Rollie Sarno, Benward Abas

26 Armando Sapida, Arnie Jay Docusin

27 Catherine Sanchez, Avinson Matro

29 Paulen Cernito & John Michael Castillo

30 Angelica Lallo, Karl Gabriel Valecruz

31 Erich Bernadette TumbagaAnaliza Castillo

Wedding Anniversaries8 - Vivencio & Maritess Calles

15 - Ptr. Ronell & Beate Hernandez

Sunday Worship Attendance 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Average

June 164 215 199 197 194July 182 201 193 283 215

JUNE JULY

Tithes 61,340.00 53,599.00

Loose Offering 19,534.50 18,700.75

Sunday School 1,290.75 922.25

Midweek Services 686.50 2,113.00

Lovegift/Donations 11,823.00 1,500.00

Support from Members Abroad

11,500.00 6,500.00

Anniversary Offering 14,107.50

Mission Offering 3,264.80 2,935.00

TOTAL 109,439.55 100,977.50

August 2009 M I S S I O N M O N T H

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat30

Sunday WorshipSis. Wilma PelagioMonneth AbasWilson Almanzor

Cell GroupsMarycris : 5 pm

Mary Cris: 6 pmJn 8:21-47

31

Bible Study Dexterville

4:00 pm

Jn 8:48-59

1Cell GroupMary Cris, Daang NIA, Simborio, CYF Fellowship, 7 p.mBCE mtg, 5 pmUCM: 8:00 p.m

I Cor. 16

2Communion SundayRev. Leng LubangElder Roger CantadaLouie De OcampoCell Groups

Marycris : 5 pmMary Cris: 6 pm

2 Cor. 1:1-:4

3


4:00 pm

2 Cor. 2:5-3:18

4CWA Home Bible Study/Fellowship8:00 p.m

DLA Teachers’ & Staff Devotion

2 Cor. 4:1-5:10

5

Prayer Service 8:00 p.m

Pastor Leng

2 Cor. 5:11-6:13

6

Cell Group-Malagasang 2-G

Church Bible Study 8:00 p.mPastor Leng

2 Cor 6:14-7:16

7Cell GroupSilvertown, 2pm

2 Cor 8

8Cell GroupMary Cris, Daang NIA, Simborio, CYF Fellowship, 7 p.mUCM: 8:00 p.mCROs Joint Fellowship

2 Cor 9

9Sunday WorshipRev. Ronell HernandezBethel Joyce RelaoAllan SaquilayanBOD Mtg.12nnCell Groups


2 Cor 10

10


4:00 pm

2 Cor 11


DLA Teachers & Staff Devotion

2 Cor 12

12


Elder Roger Cantada

2 Cor 13

13


Church Bible Study 8:00 p.m

Jn 1:1-18


Jn 1:19-34

15Cell GroupMary Cris, Daang NIA, Simborio, CYF Fellowship, 7 p.mUCM: 8:00 p.m

Jn 1:35-51

16Sunday WorshipPastor Beate HernandezJhem FauniReylyn SiervoCell Groups


Jn 2

17


4:00 pm

Jn 3:1-21



Jn 3:22-36

19


Pastor Ronell Hernandez

Jn 4:1-26

20



Jn 4:27-42


Jn 4:43-54

22Cell GroupMary Cris, Daang NIA, Simborio, CYF Fellowship, 7 p.mUCM: 8:00 p.m

Jn 5:1-18

23Exchange PulpitRev. Veronica EstayoAnn FerrerBhudz Calungin

Cell GroupsMarycris : 5 pm

Mary Cris: 6 pmJn 5:19-47

24


4:00 pm

Jn 6:1-21



Jn 6:22-59

26


Wilma Pelagio

Jn 6:60-71

27



Jn 7:1-24


Jn 7:25-52

29Cell GroupMary Cris, Daang NIA, Simborio, CYF Fellowship, 7 p.mBOE mtg, 5 pmUCM: 8:00 p.m

Jn 8:1-20

what is mercury - sabang church of christ disciples€¦ · web viewaugust 2009 volume 7, number...

Documents