The Missionary from Goa

The Missionary from Goa

You have left when she needed you.
You have wounded her and hurt her.
But open your eyes to earth's view;
Your service to God forever.

You finally face each other
In the Bread and Wine you have found;
No one can put you asunder
Of your love, so sweet, so profound.

You held on to your dear promise
Etched in the smithy of your being
In your world, the sun will surely rise
To make boys: men of God keep burning.

Someday you will come back to her-
The native land that nurtured you
To weave your story fair and square
For faith, hope, love, and charity to grow.

(By Greg In Trabanca, a parishioner of St. Timothy Church.)

The last Eucharistic celebration at St. Timothy church was presided by Bishop Mark Bartosic with Fr. Jose' Baptista, s.f.x. at 11 a.m. on Jan 31, 2021.  St. Timothy church and St. Henry church merged with St. Margaret Mary which is now the Holy Child Jesus Parish. The Pastoral Staff: Fr. Phi H. Nguyen, pastor, Fr. Arthur Bautista, associate pastor. Meanwhile, Fr Jose' Baptista,s.f.x. is awaiting his assignment.  

What Do I Reap

What do I reap? Fr. Peter Fernandes, sfx
1st Reading: Is 5:1-7, 2nd Reading: Phil 4: 6-9
Gospel: Mt 21:33-43

What do I reap? A vital question to ponder and to be answered several times during our life journey, which will give a focus for a life well-lived. Deviation from a purposeful life bears the repercussion of a bitter outcome that creates ripple effects in society. Therefore, we have to ask ourselves, what is the goal for my life? What legacy would I like to leave behind for the benefit of posterity? Each person has something to offer to make this world a better place. Am I doing my part?

If we take a serious glance at the world, we are baffled with reality. It seems evil has the upper hand, and the world is headed in the wrong direction. Hence, we should ask a question. Where have we missed the calling? The precious life not respected, the family unit is threatened, and trust betrayed, justice trampled, love, mocked upon, and mercy and forgiveness is devalued. With such a scenario of the world, what do we reap? On the other hand, what have we sown, to reap?

Despite a gloomy picture of the world, there is a ray of hope and a brighter future. Ultimately, God is in control of the whole universe, and in His time, purification will take place. Meantime, He has assigned the task to His chosen people to light up the world with faithfulness and righteousness, This group of people is a tiny minority, and their task is enormous. The Israelites were called to live in faithfulness to God and live a righteous life by observing His commandments, and benevolence towards the most vulnerable in the society. The Lord complains, "Why do I reap the bitter grapes from my vineyard?"

Today, the Catholic Church is the new Israel. The new people of God have been entrusted with the same task but greater responsibility. The fulfillment of God's promise to the world was unfolded in the death and resurrection of Jesus, His Son. The Church bears witness to this great mystery of our faith. This mystery encompasses the totality of our existence, in which, faithfulness and righteousness, should lead to the life of charity. The Catholic Church is a tiny minority, which continues to be a voice of conscience to the world that devalues the laws of God.

What do I reap? Indeed, those who live the life of God in the Church will certainly bear good fruits of faith, hope, and charity. However, those who live on their own account, and continue to support anti-Church policies, disrespect for life from conception to natural death devalue the marriage as a sacrament between a man and a woman, will also fail to live a life of charity. What kind of grapes will you reap?

Living is Difficult

Obedience ... to God
( Fr. Peter Fernandes, sfx )

9/25/11 1st Reading: Ezk 18:25-28
2nd Reading: Phil 2:1-11 (or Phil 2:1-5)

Living is difficult. However, living under obedience is extremely difficult. Only those who can perceive things through the eyes of faith and discern the will of God in every circumstance are able to conduct their lives in obedience. Such living demands great courage, humility, and faith. For most people, it is a struggle to live a life of obedience because of the ego, pride, and selfishness. The resulting disobedience in many cases comes about because those who hold the office of authority abuse their power for similar reasons.

Obedience to God should have been the most natural outcome of our existence. Nevertheless, it is not the case. Why? Is God unjust? could it be that He exercises His authority with partiality and selfish motive? Such an assumption is far from reality. Our disobedience is the direct outcome of our sin of pride and selfishness. The human soul is overshadowed with false hopes and endless possibilities, which causes us to disobey the righteous one.

To end the blame game, Jesus the eternal Son of God, took our form in total obedience to God and even accepted a gruesome death on the cross. Such living baffles the human mind but it is also the cause of our true living. In fact, the command for a life lived in obedience is, "Take up your cross daily and follow me." Should we decide to follow the Lord, we cannot ignore His way of life and at the same time live by His command.

The degradation of the moral fiber of society is the effect of people living directly in contrast to the will of God. The growing number of abortions, same-sex marriages is an abomination that reflects the sick society, which prides itself on opposing the will of God. We, the disciples of Jesus, should awaken from our slumber, and seek to do the will of God in total obedience, which is the true wisdom and fullness of life.

**************************************************************************8
Lectio
* He humbled himself by being obedient to death, death on the cross.
Meditatio
* We are witnesses to the tremendous love of God in Jesus. We have to witness His humility, sacrifice, and total self-giving to others as well.
Oratio
* Let us contemplate the cross - the ultimate sign of God's loving sacrifice.
Actio
* We witness to the cross of Christ if we choose the lowest post or to make a meaningful sacrifice.

Ode To Fr. D

Ode To Fr. D 
(The man with a mission )

In your village, there's a mountain.
In the state, they need love's fountain.

Goa, a place people want to tour;

A small state yet has a unique hold

From the rest: whose customs and culture

Are influenced by the western world.

 

Neon signs brighten a foreign land

Thirst of knowledge from the ocean.

 Come, come back and you will agree.

That this place with coastlines stretching

Along the deep Arabian sea

Gives comfort to their heart's craving.

Come, come back to them.

These people who hunger and thirst

You know them as they call your name
They cry and say, "We need to be nursed!"
And this is not a guessing game.

"Come, come, we need you!

And they say to you, "Your people,
To nourish their body, mind, and soul 

Whom you love so true and noble;

And this is their ultimate goal.

Come, come back to them.

Your people who task to do the search

Are worthy of admiration

Who preserved the century-old churches

And the tropical spice plantations.

Yes, you are the one they desire
With wisdom and knowledge afire;

The people: the heart of your story.

The land with its lovely cashew tree
The taste of the famous Maddi 

Of the swaying coconut tree.

Once a Portuguese colony.

Come and be with them, anyway.

(N.B.) A dedication penned for our friend, Fr. Peter D'Mello, s.f.x. from Goa, an unassuming, versatile man of God with an aura of sanctity. (Greg & Tom Llorente) 09/10/2011) Rev. D'Mello was with Fr. Peter Fernandes, s.f.x. formerly a pastor of St. Timothy Church for some time when he took up his Masteral degree in Administration in Chicago, Illinois, USA. He is back on his native soil in obedience to his Order to make boys men of God.

Holy Blood of Christ

Solemnity of the Most Holy Blood of Christ (6/26/11) Fr. Peter Fernandes,sfx

"I am the living bread which has come down from heaven. Anyone who eats this bread will live forever." In a unique mode, Jesus wished to live in our midst, to be our nourishment and encouragement on our journey to the Kingdom of God. Through the mystery of the Eucharist, the God of surprises continues to battle the mortals. "How can this man give us his flesh to eat?" "This is the bread come down from heaven; not like the bread our ancestors ate: they are dead, but anyone who eats this bread will live forever."

This bread was offered on the altar of the Cross. Indeed, the mystery of the Eucharist is the gift of God to His children - the church. It is the memorial of the Lord's Passover. Therefore, the Eucharist is to be celebrated with faith and thanksgiving.

"All creatures depend on you to feed them through the year: you provide the food they eat, with a generous hand you satisfy their hunger." (Ps. 104,27-28). Without a doubt, God our loving Father takes care of His entire creation, and even more so of men, whom He created in His own image and likeness. It was only right that God would share His very own life with us to restore our fallen image and likeness having been trapped in the pit of sin and disgrace, once again to grace and holiness.

Jesus, who is Christ the Lord, offers Himself as food to us in three ways. We cannot reach the Promised Land without nourishing ourselves with the food that Jesus offers. Jesus comes to us as food through faith; through His word and in the form of bread and wine, which transforms into His own Body and Blood. Therefore our response should be, "Lord to whom shall we go? You have the message of eternal life and we believe; we know that You are the Holy One of God."

Let the Eucharist truly transforms us into the Body of Christ! For when we partake of one bread and one cup, we form one Body of Christ. Let us truly believe in the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist with proper worship and adoration.

Visit: www.therealpresence.org

ZAMNAI Bunker Hill Picnic

Bunker Hill Forest Preserve Remembered

On a crisp, sunny Sunday of the last day of July, a large crowd thronged Grove 4 of the Bunker Hill forest preserve for many activities. It was a record-breaking attendance. It's Hudyaka Illinois 2011, an annual festive celebration of the people from the province of Zamboanga del Norte on the island of Mindanao, Philippines here in Illinois. It is a yearly jovial camaraderie, fellowship, get-together, reunion, chit-chat, and picnic session. Picnic tents dotted the mowed park of Grove 4.

This yearly summer gathering is vital to these province mates to showcase their talents and skills. Friendly competitions emerged in volleyball, tennis, bowling, and dart throwing. And also in dancing and sungka, a hometown game with similar to dama (a prisoner's favorite game) or Chinese checker. In the game of Sungka, players use marbles or pebbles and whoever has the last marble or pebble wins the game. It is fun and like chess, your mind must be as nimble as your hands move. These games were participated by organizations of the towns, the schools, the youth, and business groups within the coastal province of Zamboanga del Norte known in the e-world as ZANORTE and later as the Zamboanga del Norte Association in Illinois ( ZAMNAI).

The ballroom dancing contest and sungka staged on the shed sent standing ovations while wows and aahs filled the air. However, the crowd changed their attention when Volleyball was played under the blistering heat of the July sun.

I met a buddy who was an erstwhile bank manager and is now one of the owners of a home healthcare outfit. He told me that he still can't forget about my remark concerning his nasty smoking habit. He was glad about it and his children reminded him too of that. So, he did his best to stop smoking but he said, he couldn't even if he tried hard to do so. Well, I told him, how about, with my right fingers pointing skyward... prayer? Oh yes, I am doing my morning prayer..." Oh, Jesus through the immaculate heart of Mary, I offer"...That's good, I answered but tried harder, praying the Rosary and at this point, telling him of my devotional prayer to the *Lord of Pardon which was my shield against the devil that's always waiting on our every corner and another weapon, the rosary bead hidden in my pocket. By the way, don't leave home without it.

Before we parted ways, I dug from my pant's left rear pocket my wallet and took the chaplet of the Divine Mercy. There was that unique smile that enveloped his grateful countenance. Yes, a little thing can make a gigantic reward that will last a lifetime.

Note:
*This Lord of Pardon devotion consists of the daily praying of 15 Our Fathers, 15 Hail Marys, and invoking the almighty power and blessings of God, the Father humbly admitting your sinfulness being a sinner then asking the Most Holy VirginMary to intercede for you to her Beloved Son, Jesus Christ. Then, ask pardon for your sin and protection from your enemies and that eternal glory be granted to you. Say, "Pardon, oh my God, Pardon me, my offenses, Pardon, Lord, grant me"

Stranger at Lowe's Home Improvement Store

8/17/2011, Wed

A Glow at Lowe's

The crossing of the path

I was looking for a bi-fold door for our apartment one Wednesday afternoon at Lowe's Home Improvement Store in Lincolnwood, Illinois when I stumbled on this Asian-looking lady. She was on something for her home or domicile I figured because she drifted her gaze on an item on the shelf. My direction was geared for some cleaning items for our house. This woman's right hand picked up a baking soda with a tag price of $0.88 cents for her old refrigerator. My intuition prodded me to politely tell this woman that baking soda in the  Aldi food store cost only half of that price. And I opened the idea of savings to her that there is a cheap way to clean our kidneys and parsley can do it. Then a Lowe's salesperson passed by and I asked him if he is familiar with this parsley herb of which he positively and confidently said that it is true. He knew it as he was in the Orient for a number of years. And that herbs are very good for our health; even going to the extent of giving the address where herbal medicines are sold. ( Parsley is a herb with crinkled green leaves. )

Parsley for cleaning your kidney.

On a clean pot filled with potable water boil the parsley for ten minutes. Let it cool before transferring the boiled water of parsley to a bottled container and put it in the refrigerator. To clean your kidney you have to drink a glass of that boiled parsley water daily. With that routine, you'll experience a totally different physical world. Being a slave to good habits leads you to the road of healthy success. And healthy success is what you eat or drink or think which is supplied by Mother Nature and not provided by drug stores. Today is the propitious time to like and love the abundance that Mother Nature avails.

Place matters not

As familiarity took hold of the moment's meeting, this woman said that she is a Thai and she sure recognized me where I came from. Was that, she stammered... Manila? I replied, no but I came from the second largest island, Mindanao near Borneo. Manila is on the largest island, Luzon. Anyway, its in the Philippines.

Matter doesn't age

The conversation continued and touched a delicate subject which is about the numbers of stay on this planet. I told her that I was retired for a number of years. She almost fainted. She looked for a place to sit. How did you do it, came the question? Looking at my head, she noticed something that caught her attention. Ah, yes- the big ears which are a sign of long life. "Well", I said, "that depends entirely on you. Habits, attitude, gratitude, prayer." Oh, she replied, Hail Mary... I knew that as I went to a Catholic school because it has a very good education. The subject matters trickled into scholastic performance. She mentioned her masters and doctorate degrees. That she has also taken journalism in her country. She asked me what highest scholastic attainment I have achieved. Humbly, I told her I have taken master subjects too and hang out with press and radio people but what I did not reveal is of my being a "sum-suman san laude" graduate of the University of Hard Knocks and a member of the defunct " Toastmo-naut club." Remember- astronaut, cosmonaut?

An Epilogue

Somebody has said:
" Happiness keeps you sweet; trials keep you strong. Sorrows keep you human; failures keep you humble. Success keeps you glowing but only God keeps you going!"

Until we meet again. Have a wonderful day!

Love is God's free gift

Aug. 17, 2011, Wednesday
1st Reading: Jdg 9:6-15 Gospel:Mt 20: 1-16

"So will it be: the last will be the first, the first will be last."

Jesus tells us that justice is granted to those that deserve it while love is given with unmerited generosity. In today's world, nothing is free. Things have prices. You can have them if you are willing to pay for the charges. You have to earn them.

God is a God of love. And essentially His ultimate value is love manifested in generosity. He is also a God with pure and overflowing generosity.

Despite our flaws and demerits, God loves us. He continues to bless us, to guide us, to help us. We don't realize that what we are enjoying are things that we really don't deserve. Let us then turn to God as He gives us things guaranteed free of charge and not to what we hear over the airwaves, read in the newspapers or the internet.

People and the word of God

 The Parable of the Sower (Matt 13:1-23)

The gospel of Matthew about the parable of the Sower is relevant to us in our everyday life. During the time of this gospel writer, the community understood the seed as the word of God that yields harvest according to the situation of the one who hears the word being proclaimed.

Let's pause for a while and consider ourselves as the farmer. As a farmer's son and grew on a farm, I am familiar with farming the natural way using the wooden and steel plow, the harrow, the carabao or water buffalo, and lots of prayers for rain and a bountiful harvest. Farmers at that time don't use fertilizers, chemicals, or machines. Everything runs on its smooth course as Mother Nature intended it to be, unadulterated. Farms teemed with mudfish, catfish, other freshwater species of fish, edible snails, and diet-friendly farm frogs. Myriads of kangkong (comparable to spinach ) dotted the sunlight ricefields, quails swarmed in droves, and mayas (small crimson-colored rice bird) flowered the rice fields with their lovely presence. Herons or carabao egrets and kingfishers were familiar visitors. And at that time, harvests were in abundance because we sow in abundance. In fact, we have a small rice granary to store the rice and corn seeds.

In this high-tech world of computers and cell phones and e-cameras, how do we sow our time, our talents, and our energy? If we sow scantily, we will reap scantily. If we plant in abundance, the harvest is bountiful.

Minister of Care at Swedish Covenant Hospital

Sunday, July 24, 2011
1st Reading: 1 Kings 3:5, 7-12, 2nd Reading: Rom 8:28-30
Gospel: Mt. 13:44-52
Memorable Sunday.

At 8:30 A.M. on a muggy summer Sunday morning, I was awakened by a cell phone call. Immediately, I swept the cobwebs of sleep, went to meditating moment, paused for greetings to the Great Provider, and welcomed the inevitable coming of the day. I am one of the MOCs, Minister of Care. We are lay ministers sanctioned by the Parish Pastor to minister to the sick at hospitals, nursing homes, and homes; to those people who have no luxury to be at their Sunday's best to go to the cathedral, church, or chapel. I was on a schedule that Sunday. ( either I lost my schedule or I was not sent one; this is not new to my lector-minister's lexicon. ) I told Glynda, the one who called me to bring the things needed - the host and copies of the church's bulletin. So she did and we three MOCs met at Swedish Covenant Hospital.

I was assigned to the East Wing of the hospital's 3rd, 4th, and 5th floors.
I knocked on the door and introduced myself with greetings. This male person lying on his bed was hesitant to welcome me and told his tale of woe; the reason why he had not been in the church for over ten years. There was a tragic incident in his family life; a child died. I told him I was sorry for what had happened. Then I unfolded a story of a man who migrated to America, found a decent job, got married, and realized the American dream meaning a single-family home with a big backyard and garage, loving wife, dear child, latest model car. He even bought another car for his wife's birthday gift. In a nutshell, he was successful. He made it, so to speak. He loved his job but he loved his wife and children more. His family was a frequent churchgoer. He was up to date in his church's contribution and donation. He was living a typical, happy American life until tragedy struck. His beloved wife died in a car accident. He was hurt. He saw suffering and hopelessness. His life turned upside down. He blamed and cursed God. The wheel of a fortunate, happy life screeched to a stopped.

One day while walking on his way home, a sudden strong rain fell hard that it lasted over an hour. He was cornered and nowhere to go except to find shelter while the rain was pouring vehemently. By a fluke of circumstance and beyond his control, he found himself in a Sanctuary. He found a corner pew to rest his tired body and maybe his weary soul. What he heard from the pulpit was comforting and consoling. His heart was softened; his mind enlightened. Was this the Holy Spirit's light "amidst the encircling gloom?"

He came home attired with a smile and whistling. He played his favorite songs. He totally changed the way he looked at life. His attitude is more of gratitude.

The man with his lovely young wife was now willing to take communion. And I encouraged him to always pray especially that America needs the prayer of our Lady of Fatima. That prayer is very powerful. The world witnessed how and what prayer had done for Russia and Germany. And that man was very grateful that I came.

I knocked on another patient's door. This time a lady was happy to welcome me but she told me that she cannot receive the Holy Communion because she was not married in the church. I respected her wish. I gave her the church's bulletin, anyway.

I looked at my cell phone. It's quarter to eleven and I was a scheduled lector at eleven o'clock. I drove home to get my wife for the eleven o'clock mass. We arrived in the nick of time. My wife went to the Choir side and I sat at the lector's chair. Rev. Peter Fernandes, the pastor was ready to proceed together with the acolytes to the altar to commence the celebration.

"Those whom God predestined he called, and those whom he called he makes righteous, and to those whom he makes righteous he will give glory."

The second and third verses of St. Paul's letter to the Romans have the complex concepts of foreknowledge and predestination. These concepts have been the subject of intense theological debates over the centuries. St. Paul using the language of divine foreknowledge teaches us that God has been at work even before the creation of the world. Psalm 139 clearly tells everything. We can't hide or run away from God. He knew us before we were born. He foresees our thoughts and actions...
1 "Oh Lord, you have searched me and you know me... 4 Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O Lord....16 All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be...
Even before the beginning of time, God's plan for the redemption of the world began.

After the eleven o'clock Mass, St. Timothy's choir members gave Manny Lucero a good-bye lunch at a Chinese Buffet on Howard and Western. Fr. Peter Fernandez was present. Manny took over the music directorship temporarily when Julie Demerath, the music director passed away. He did a good job together with his pianist/singer-wife, Lorna Buenconsejo Lucero. Their last day in the choir is on Sunday, July 31, 2011, which coincided with the last mass of Fr. Peter D'Mello, SFX who is leaving for Goa, India for a new directorship position.

Lector at Transfiguration church

Friday, July 22, 2011
Reading: Song 3:1-4b (or Cor 5:14-17) Gospel: Jn 20:1-2, 11-18)

I was the scheduled lector at Transfiguration Church where there is a novena every Friday at 7:00 PM.At precisely every seven o'clock on a Friday evening, the Holy Rosary starts followed by a novena to Jesus, the Nazarene. After that, is the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. (This devotion is made popular in Quiapo Church, Manila, Philippines.It had helped weary travelers and ambitious students from the provinces.)

The first reading was on Song 3:1-4b. "On my bed, at night I looked for the one I love, I sought him without finding him; I called him and he did not answer. I will arise and go about the city, through the streets and the squares; I will seek the love of my heart... I sought him without finding him, the watchmen came upon me, those who patrol the city."

"Have you seen the love of my heart?" As soon as I left them,I found the love of my heart. I held him and I would not let him go till I have brought him to my mother's house, to the room of her who conceived me."

Love's recognition is unfolded in the encounter of Jesus and Magdalene. A name when uttered makes one feel something as did Mary come to her senses. Magdalene's eyes were opened seeing her beloved, Jesus. Likewise, our acknowledgment of God's presence will be awakened when in the sanctum of our hearts we intensely missed Him. When our whole being is geared and focused on that obsessed encounter with the Lord, we will truly know and love Him. And that love for the Lord comforts us to that enduring wait for Him.

Jesus (addressing to Mary Magdalene) said, "Touch me not, for I have not yet returned to my Father."

The gospel of John, particularly verse 17, reminded me of Dr. Jose Protacio Rizal's title to his controversial and immortal novel, Noli Me Tangere (Touch me not). Rizal was shot at Bagumbayan now the Luneta because of the prevalence practices of those in power like social cancer that was plaguing the country. And today, the Palace has not found a cure to that social cancer of graft and corruption that spread throughout every bureau, private and government offices, and business enterprises. Politics' strong tentacles are powerful.
The rich are powerful; the poor are pitiful.

(Note: Jose P. Rizal is the Philippines' national hero. He is a doctor, linguist, surveyor, writer, novelist, poet, lover, and patriot.

Sonnet

 On Wisdom, A Sonnet
(Dedicated to Msgr. Salvador Mora)


Remember the music, the dance.
The meeting of the minds, the touch,
Of medicine, the legal parlance,
Of Tanduay rum, fisherman's fresh catch?

That words turned to action uttered
Were not written in the white sand
But fully engaged to be heard;
Was a profound message of the land.

The distractions of today's world
Lead us to hostile disregard
For the great Treasure unexplored

Have found no place in our innards
Yet hidden in the everyday strength
Is the power of the greatest of Bards.

N.B.  (This poem is about the memorable moments of my bachelor's days in the Philippines with Msgr. Salvador Mora. We were able to befriend non- Catholics and also non - Christians. Msgr. Mora ( an honorary title) is not a bishop but a non-ivory tower priest and a good friend. He is a San Jose' Seminary, Manila, Phil graduate run by the Jesuits. I, once upon a time, have been a part of the campus of that Seminary along Highway 54 at (EDSA ) Epifanio de los Santos Ave., Metro Manila where the historic People Power Revolutions of Feb.22-25, 1986 (3 days) took place that leads to the unbloody replacement of a nation's top leader; paving the way to a woman's occupancy.

 

Greg In. Trabanca  

(07/19/2011)

Met Fr. Rodrigo "Eric" Zafra & some Labasonians

July 14,2011, Thursday

Not An Ordinary Day...

Met town-mates and high-school-days friends after over a score plus years and of course that "those were golden memories" permeated the air. You'll figure these are people of the retired level mark in life. And you'll readily recognize the physical changes- the slow gait, the missing-tooth smile, the composed way of talking as these are grandparents who came to be with their grandchildren to do their "apostolic mission." (apo in the local lingo means grandchild). But they are immigrants. In the birth country, a mother is always a source of perpetual succor. Then, the "very long-time hugs", together with smooches; meantime the e-cameras kept on ticking.

They were our townmates and schoolmates who are daughters of the town's pioneers- Norma Cabading Balais and Linda Galea Valeros, whose children are nurses and doctors. We are proud to be born and raised in the coastal town of Labason, Zamboanga del Norte. Labason, ZDN is the only town during the '40s that has two citadels of higher learning. It has one private Catholic high school, Ferrer High School with a tinge of a secondary Jesuit education when a San Jose' Seminary diocesan priest, Fr. Anacleto Pellano, took over the directorship but left and turned it over to the RVM sisters. It has also one private Protestant college, Southern Philippines College with a western touch as manifested in its gala Founder's Day celebration, a replica of California's annual parade of roses. The founder-director was a Col. Leodegario Orendain, who sojourned in America during the sacada era wave of immigration.

Labason, Zamboanga del Norte with a mark of many diverse professionals, has produced 28 priests to date, which is truly a record. The Catholic church is now sporting a new look; it's bigger and wider. Thanks to the generous donors and combined ideas of priests who had ministered to the sanctuary. The town proper has a wide area and well-planned roads and streets. Thanks to its first mayor, Mr. Gil Sanchez.

And now the memorable moment came. The background music was subdued; the forks and spoons were stilled. The conversations commenced interspersed with guffaws and "what we all need" laughter. Yarns of good old days and the high-tech world were woven to blanket the atmosphere.

I am a firm believer in love at first sight, to animate or inanimate objects, persons, or panoramas. I met a person whose visage is familiar. It turned out that he is a man in the Roman collar sans the collar. He nonchalantly introduced himself as Fr. Rodrigo Zafra. Fr. Eric, that is. We talked about schools. We glimpsed of those seminary moments. My short-lived seminary days. My linkage of that ilk- seminarians, nuns, and priests. We talked of his uncle, the first Bishop of Dipolog, ZDN., the late Msgr. Felix S. Zafra, our good friend. And also of my students of Ferrer High School, who are now priests "sowing the seed" of Catholicism in the snowy ground of the East Coast, Fr. Faron and Fr. Edito Amora who is I presumed at Davao, Mindanao, Philippines.

Thoughts of priests and religious and nuns cascaded intermittently, in my mind. What was this priest's mission? Is he a roaming pilgrim priest, an itinerant preacher or just want to break the solitude of being a parish priest to find meaning and definition on the unfolding will of God? Is he on a mission appeal, on a vacation seeking for the "aha" moment or the feeling of Eureka?

In the priest to a layperson talk, I bared out what his Bishop's uncle intimated to me that the binding force of priesthood and the pillars of Christian faith are the Rosary and the Holy Eucharist. That a priest who is negligent in saying the Mass and the Rosary is prone to the temptation of leaving the robe. And that the seed of spirituality finds fertile soil in the silence of the sanctuary.

We parted. I said goodbye. And when his sight was swallowed by the balmy Chicago summer night, I silently muttered to myself "til we meet again Fr. Eric."

An addendum - On July 27, 2011, Wednesday afternoon, Fr. Eric called on his way to Baltimore, Md. for "thanks for that memorable chat."  Truly, I muttered to myself this young priest had in mind that "gratefulness, is the heart of prayer." And, there was the spark of joy. He made my day.  Brother David Steindl-Rast-O.S.B. wrote "Joy is that extraordinary happiness that is independent of what happens to us. Good luck can make us happy, but it cannot give us lasting joy. The root of joy is gratefulness. Yet even bad luck will give joy to those who manage to be grateful for it. We hold the key to lasting happiness in our own hands. For it is not joy that makes us grateful, it is gratitude that makes us joyful."

June 26, 2011 Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ
Reading 1 Deut: 8:2-3, 14b-16a Read 11 1 Cor 10:16-17

Moses addressed his people as they approached the Promised Land after wandering in the desert for 40 years, reminding them with encouragement what the Lord has truly done for them. That going with out food and drink humbled them. Their only sustenance was: manna from heaven and water that flowed from the rock which leads them Israelites to know God's love and care; that every word that comes from the Lord's mouth provides sustenance.

There is a connection here to the solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ. The manna is linked to the bread of the Eucharist and the water to the wine. In addition, it also relates to the deeper liturgical truth that it is the one table of the Word and Eucharist from which we partake every time we participate in the Mass. (Dei Verbum, Dogmatic Constitution on Divine Revelation, 21)

Being a lector on this Sunday, I came face to face with the reality concerning all the Lord has done for me and my family. And as I prepare to proclaim this reading memories flood my mind like when I felt I have been tested, when my preparations were not enough, when I sensed being criticized, or when I felt alone sans God's presence. Yet, recalling those moments brought me to my knees in humility, especially some sincere feedbacks from the assembly. Then I think of how great and good God is, how He fed me and enabled me to go on the task of proclaiming His Words that feeds and gives life to the congregation.

" I am the living bread which has come from heaven; whoever eats of this bread will live forever."

Jesus gives Himself to us totally, not only to sustain us day by day but for us to attain the fullness of life. Then the question, What do we really need in life? Pause, ponder and be silent for a moment. Search in the deepest center of your being.

Forget self and focus on what you can share with others that would really satisfy the greatest desire of their hearts.

June 19,2011
Reading 1 Exodus 34:4b-6,8-9. Reading II 2 Cor 13:11-13.
Gospel John 3:16-18

June 19, 2011 is the 150th birth anniversary of the Philippines' national hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal. He is the spark that blazed the road for our (the Filipinos') independence due to his brilliant ideas and martyrdom. He is the father of the Philippines and his birthday anniversary coincides with the Father's Day celebration in the United States.

The gospel today is also my favorite bible verse- the love of the Father that sent His only Son to die in His thirties to save the world from sin. Rizal came back to his native land unafraid to give his life. He died too in his thirties so his country will eventually be free and independent.

In the backyard, Father's Day was celebrated with grilled meat and fish and steamed rice over bottles of beer and cans of coke by two fathers and their wives. The gathering was unplanned and in a flash of the moment.

That moment made marriage alien to divorce as the conversation floated from birth to wanderlust,to new found country, the pains and the laughter, the agony and the glory. Nerves were restored to normalcy and a perfect respite from the day's doldrums.

Indeed, that was a Father's day to remember.

Tribute to Msgr. Salvador Mora, a friend

06/17/2011
Tribute to a Friend in Roman Collar

All of the things that you rained on me
Are manna for my soul in plight;
They are dewdrops in my pale dawn,
Beacon light in my gloomy night.

A rudderless boat on the sea;
Without direction but held on
To its destination with glee
You appeared- I was not alone.

From rugged Visayan terrain
To Zamboanga's shore, you came
To ease the penury and pain
In your humility to proclaim.

We sang the melody of love,
Of sharing and of forgiving
Of humanity's hearts that throb
With a rhythm of life worth living.

( The poem is a grateful dedication to Msgr. Salvador Mora. a diocesan priest;

an alumnus of San Jose' Seminary, Manila-, Philippines. With

his friendship. I drank the wisdom of loving God and neighbor

and beheld the beauty of humility. He instilled in me prudence on critical subjects but conversant on agreeable matters. He is a typical down-to-earth, non-ivory tower priest in his human secular capabiltiy.

May 29,2011, Sunday 25 years of Pilipino Catholic Ministry in Chicago; Our 37th Wedding Anniversary.

My wife and I sang in the 11:00 o'clock mass as members of the St. Timothy choir and at 3:00 o'clock in the afternoon, we attended the 25th year of Pilipino Catholic Ministry at the Cathedral. I was also one of the ushers wearing my barong Tagalog,  formal wear among Filipinos comparable to the coat and tie of the western world.

After the celebration, a stomach filler was served in the cafeteria followed by a musical rendition in the Auditorium. Pilipino church choirs of different parishes and some young musical talents rendered Philippine favorite songs and medleys in the vernaculars plus the dances which were a mixture of Spanish and native influences, that sent ovations from the crowd. Even Cardinal George who was in the front row favorably remarked on the great performance.

Watching the stage renditions, flashed back home memories streaming in my mind - the crimson-colored small rice bird (maya) in the rice fields, the carabao egrets wading in the puddles, (tinikling dance), the bamboos swaying along the river, the vintas (Philippines sailboats) slashing the wavy sea, on the backdrop of the beautiful sunsets, of Romeos serenading in the tropical moonlight nights. Oh, those wonderful, lazy days and sleepless memorable nights!

May 28, 2011 Feast of St. Vincent Ferrer, Patron Saint of Dipolog City, Philippines.
Celebration of the Feast Day at Bunker Hill Forest Preserved in Chicago, Illinois was significantly attended by a record crowd. Con-celebrants of the Catholic Mass were Fr Peter Raposo and Fr Alan Lastimosa on a picnic shed surrounded by 5 tents. There was a flowering offering to the Blessed Mother Mary and dance homage to the beloved Saint Vincent Ferrer.

When Filipinos gathered in the name of God, hearts are filled with gladness, sharing, and love. It is the Filipino tradition that keeps them going in the world amidst the brewing catastrophe and pervading turbulence.

And what they have saved are offered freely as a thanksgiving for the blessings that the Great Provider has showered on them.

06/05/2011 7th Sunday of Easter
Gospel John 17:1-11a

June 02 or 05 /2011 Ascension of the Lord
June 01/2011
Gospel

05/29/2011 6th Sunday of Easter
Gospel John 14:15-21

05/05/2011-Thursday

The Lemon Tree      
By: Greg In. Trabanca

Just past midnight, I have the urge to either read The Poetry of Pablo Neruda, K.O.C's Columbia or the emails. It was the email. What caught my attention was that of all things my favorite- the lemon. In fact, one Sunday afternoon at St. Timothy's Church basement with the Choir members we were carried to unstoppable medleys of vernacular and old favorites. It's one of those moments of break time after a two Sunday mass of choir singing. And the old favs were: Lemon tree is very pretty... followed by Yellowbird, You are my sunshine, etc... and the vernacular oldies.

Indeed, the lemon tree. The email's subject is Lemon to Fight Cancer. Wow! This reminds me back home of our use of lemon in our diet especially when we have the raw food of kinilaw, sushi, or fresh fish soaked in vinegar, lemon, salt, and pepper. Or in grilled fish and pancit (noodle dish ), we use lemon.

The email said that lemon (citrus) is a miraculous product to kill cancer cells. Its 10,000 times stronger than chemotherapy. That lemon juice is beneficial in preventing the disease of cancer. The taste is pleasant and does not produce the horrific effects of chemotherapy. The Lemon tree is known for its varieties of lemons and limes. Besides, you can eat the pulp, press it for juice, prepare drinks, sorbets, pastries, etc. It produces an amazing effect on cysts and tumors. The Lemon tree is a proven remedy against cancers of all types. It is very useful in all variants of cancer. It is also considered as an anti-microbial spectrum against bacterial infections and fungi. It is effective against internal parasites and worms. It regulates blood pressure which is too high and an antidepressant, combats stress, and nervous disorders.

Source of the information is one of the world's largest drug manufacturers. That after 20 years of laboratory tests since 1970, the extracts revealed that It destroys the malignant cells in 12 cancers including colon, breast, prostate, lung, and pancreas. The compounds of the lemon tree showed 10,000 times better than the product Adriamycin, a drug normally used chemotherapeutic in the world, slowing the growth of cancer cells. Even more astonishing is that this type of therapy with lemon extract only destroys malignant cancer cells and it does not affect healthy cells.
(Institute of Health Science, 819 N. LLC. Cause Street, Baltimore, MD 1201)

... in the heart of a seed...    Greg In. Trabanca

In this challenging time and changing environment, I am excited to take this opportunity to put this in my blog. I don't know who wrote this but it is very appropriate to read and to ponder.

THE SEED

A successful businessman was growing old and knew it was time to choose a successor to take over the business. Instead of choosing one of his Directors or his children, he decided to do something different. He called all the young company executives together.
He said," It is time for me to step down and choose the next CEO. I have decided to choose one of you." the young executives were shocked, but the boss continued, "I am going to give each one of you a seed today - one very special seed. I want you to plant this seed, water it, and come back here one year from today with what you have grown from the seed I have given you. I will then judge the plants that you bring, and the one I choose will be the next CEO."

One man named Jim, was there that day and he, like the others, received a seed. He watered, and compost and he planted the seed. Every day, he would water it and watch to see if it had grown. After about three weeks, some of the other executives began to talk about their seeds that were beginning to grow.

Jim kept checking his seed, but nothing ever grows. Three weeks, four weeks, five weeks went by - still nothing. By now, others were talking about their plants, but Jim didn't have a plant and he felt like a failure.

Six months went by- still nothing in Jim's pot. He just knew he had killed his seed. Everyone else had trees and tall plants, but he had nothing. Jim didn't say anything to his colleagues, however; he just kept watering and fertilizing the soil. He wanted the seed to grow.

A year finally went by and all the young executives of the company brought their plants to the CEO for inspection. Jim had told his wife that he wasn't going to take an empty pot, but she asked him to be honest about what happened. Jim felt sick to his stomach. This was going to be the most embarrassing moment of his life, but he knew his wife was right. He took his empty pot to the board room. When Jim arrived, he was amazed at the variety of plants grown by the other executives. They were beautiful - all shapes and sizes. Jim put his empty pot on the floor, and many of his colleagues laughed. A few felt sorry for him.

When the CEO arrived, he surveyed the room and greeted his young executives. Jim just tried to hide in the back. "My, what great plants, trees, and flowers you have grown," said the CEO, "Today, one of you will be appointed the next CEO!"

All of a sudden, the CEO spotted Jim at the back of the room with his empty pot. He ordered the Financial Director to bring him to the front. Jim was terrified. He thought, "The CEO knows I'm a failure. Maybe he will have me fired!" When Jim got to the front of the room, the CEO asked him what had happened to his seed. Jim told him the story.

The CEO asked everyone to sit down except Jim. He looked at Jim, and then announced to the young executives, "Behold your next Chief Executive Officer! His name is Jim."
Jim couldn't believe it. He hadn't even been able to grow his seed. "How could he be the new CEO?" the others murmured.

Then, the CEO said, "One year ago today, I gave everyone in this room a seed. I told you to take that seed, plant it, water it, and bring it back to me today. But - I gave you all boiled seeds. They were dead - it was not possible for them to grow. All of you except Jim, have brought me trees and plants and flowers. When you found that the seed would not grow, you substituted another seed for the one I gave you. Jim was the only one with the courage and honesty to bring me a pot with my seed in it. therefore, he is the one who will be your new Chief Executive Officer!"

Remember - If you plant honesty, you will reap trust. If you plant goodness, you will reap friends. If you plant humility, you will reap greatness. If you plant perseverance, you will reap contentment. If you plant consideration, you will reap perspective. If you plant hard work, you will reap success. If you plant forgiveness, you will reap reconciliation.

So - Be careful what you plant now. It will determine what you will reap later.
what's the seed you have planted in your heart until it is manifested into action.

On September 23, 2010, Autumn begins and leaves start to fall.

Summer wind signaled the advent
Of Autumn when leaves start to fall
And in our life the great event
Is witnessed at Paradise hall.

Back home my thoughts are of wet and dry
As we roam the fields and mountain
And we love to dance, sing and cry
Then a class of life to attain.

Over here there are four seasons
Winter, Spring, Summer, and Autumn
And school to go in all sessions
When your love begins to blossom.

...there is nothing new under the sun. ( Eccl. 1:2-11 )
If they say to you, "See, it's new!" know that it has already been centuries earlier.

Just Life   ......  By: Greg In. Trabanca

It is normal to live a just life in an unjust society. We need guardian angels in the likes of Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael to trample and defeat the hordes of the unjust perpetrators- the demons in our world. These creatures lurk in every corner of our existence pretending to be friendly yet they are deadly ready to strike on the wink of an eye.

We must be awake all the time. We must be alert and be prepared through our powerful weapon - prayer. As long as we don't fail to attend mass, visit perpetual adoration, attend and practice devotional novenas especially the Divine Mercy, The Lord of Pardon, The Mother of Perpetual Help, the Infant Jesus, we are not afraid.

The promise of Jesus, our Lord, and Savior, to be with us in the Holy Eucharist gives us strength and power to continue on living amidst the turmoil and the chaos.

And when we live a just life, Satan and the company lost a playing field.

Live a Just Life...!

The author of the Book of Wisdom encouraged the people to live a just life, not only for the sake of building a peaceful society here on earth but also because "the life of the just is in the hand of God." It is but natural to say, "Live a just life."However, the reality is just the opposite, as unjust structures, established by men control the lives of the people in a society, besides our individual inclinations and failure to live a just life.

How did humanity arrive at such a scheme of deception? It is natural for men to live justly, but it has also become very normal for men to conduct his affairs unjustly. It indicates an inner conflict caused by unwarranted forces of false desire to be a slave of power and wealth, which is unnatural to humankind. Such a dichotomy within the individual personality breeds ill-effects on society.

Charity is good, but justice is noble. Denying justice is not only taking away from a person what belongs to him/her but betraying his/her rights and denying his/her dignity as a child of God. In every circumstance of sin, there is a violation of justice and charity. Therefore, it is only for us to delve deeper into our being, in order to hear the natural voice calling us to live a just life.

Prophet Amos confronts the people of God, who have defiled their relationship with God and neighbor by conducting their business in an unworthy manner. The chosen people sought every opportunity to cheat the poor and the vulnerable of t society to amass wealth for themselves. The Lord swears it by the pride of Jacob: Never will I forget a single thing you have done."

You can be the slave of God and of money." Therefore, it is imperative to listen to our inner voice inviting us to live a just life to build the Kingdom of God. At the same time, being aware that God sometimes tempers justice with mercy, not to deny righteousness, but for wholeness and holiness. Let us seek His forgiveness and promote peace and justice. ( Fr. Peter Fernandes, sfx. Pastor, St. Timothy Church )

In His Wisdom...

The ontological argument by St.Anselm to ascertain the belief in the existence of God affirms the wisdom and understanding coming from the same eternal source."I won't try to reach your heights Lord since I could never make my understanding reach that high. Yet I still want somehow to understand your truth, which my heart believes and loves. For, rather than seeking to understand so that I can believe so that I can understand. In fact, one of the things That I believe is that, unless I believe, I cannot understand."

The author of the book of wisdom employs a similar approach to decipher the divine wisdom. Human life is feeble, and the reasoning of mortals is unsure. How then can we conduct our affairs with true understanding and knowledge? On a few occasions, we find in the Old Testament the mention of the Holy Spirit. One such mention is in today's first reading. ( Wis 9:13-18b). The author affirms the human limitations saying, "Who could have learned your intentions, had you not granted wisdom and sent your Holy Spirit from above? Thus have the paths of those on earth been straightened and men being taught that pleases you and saved by wisdom."

This gift of God is poured in abundance upon all through His Son Jesus, in the Holy Spirit at baptism. In fact, St. Paul reminds us of a divine transformation at the reception of the Holy Spirit, while writing to Philemon. All receive the same gift and are elevated to the same dignity as children of God. Onesimus was a slave, who had escaped from his master. Having received the gift of God's grace while living with St. Paul, he is being sent back to his master, now as a dear brother, "one in the Lord."

Jesus confirms the wisdom of God revealed in the salvation history recorded in the sacred scriptures. Unless we learn to deny ourselves, snap the ties of security with the family and friends, and learn to trust in the Lord, we will not find wisdom. In which case, we might build towers, but they will not stand the test of time. Our pursuit of true happiness will end up in space and time meaninglessly, thus denying our hearts the eternal longing for peace and bliss in God's kingdom.

Let us be lovers of wisdom and God will not deny anyone who sincerely seeks the Holy Spirit, the giver of wisdom. The wisdom of God then allows us to see all as children of God and heirs of eternal life. This world is nothing but the vanity of vanities. Therefore, live in His wisdom.

"Who humbles himself will be exalted"

"Humility and Exaltation are such terms that inevitably create tension, as we face the currents of the two worlds colliding, and pulling us in an opposite direction. At such juncture, discernment is crucial to grow in wisdom and to conduct our affairs wisely for a smooth and steady pilgrimage of life. Otherwise, we might lose the battle of character, obscure the vision, and suffer a mighty fall.

the current of this world promotes exaltation and abhors humility. In general, people look up to those who have successfully achieved honor and glory among men. society loves heroes and adorns them in every possible way. this gives ample opportunity to the youngest to emulate such celebrated figures. Indeed, everyone wants to be the apple of the eye at any cost, while in the process, losing sight for greater liv8ing in the Kingdom of God.

The virtue of humility is the fruit of the spiritual journey of faith. the greater the awareness of the Almighty in one's life, the greater is the humility. This journey breaks the human personality in the eyes of the world and enjoins it to something more profound, that is, more attuned to the melody of God resounding everywhere. Therefore, Jesus says, "for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled and the one who humbles himself will be exalted."

The Sacred Scripture speaks volumes about humility and faith very loudly and clearly for all to hear, to understand, and to grow in wisdom. It was not something God imposed on us but He himself walked that path of humility.St. Paul writing to the Philippians said, "Although He existed in the form of God, He did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant and being made in the likeness of men. Being found in appearance as a man-, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. For this reason, also, God highly exalted Him and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bend of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth and that every tongue will confess that Jesus is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."

Our spiritual journey should lead us to grow in humility and faith. We have to emulate our Master Jesus, who gladly walked the path of humility to show us the way to our Father. We have to grow in this wisdom to make our life worthwhile. Otherwise, the wealth and the glory of this world will crumble, coming down upon us and crushing us to dust upon the earth. ( Fr. Peter Fernandes, sfx, Pastor, St. Tim.

Gospel Notes

Enter by the narrow gate...

What a paradox! Everyone wants to walk by the broad gate, to make a quick entry or exit s a hustle for the smooth flow of traffic. The highways are constantly modified to keep up with the pace in order to avoid congestion on the roads.

However, the entrance to the airport becomes more constricted day by day. Travelers need to be at the aerodrome three hours before the flight takes off. To watch the favorite team play or their latest hero, fans push each other to enter by the narrow gate. US government has passed the law to put a fence on the border, consequently making the entry of aliens to the United States by the narrow gate.

Our human nature is to make an easy way out. When restrictions are imposed we detest, and numerous complaints follow. Yet, our empirical experience shows us that without such restrains, there would not be a smooth flow of life. Therefore, to stride by the narrow door is vital for our success and wellbeing.

The invitation of Jesus to the people of the New Testament is to walk by the narrow gate. What does this mean? Love your enemy and pray for those who persecute you; if someone slaps you on the cheek turn the other as well. The Beatitudes: blessed are the poor... blessed are those who are persecuted... blessed are pure... The teachings of Jesus turns the world upside down and makes the path very narrow to tread.

To be politically correct, which is the broad gate, we shut our mouths against injustice, immorality, and allow the degradation of the society, as well as the faith in the Almighty. St. Peter responded politically correct, "God forbid, this shall never happen to you", to the announcement Jesus made about His impending passion and death. Jesus did not think politically while reacting to Peter's answer: "Get behind me, Satan!"

People in great numbers follow those faiths, which compromise the "in thing" with modern society. Catholic Church is looked upon with frown because it would not bend to the pressure and make the gate broader and easier for people to walk through. More than half of the Catholic population do not attend mass, because they feel that the cross of Christ is too heavy for them to carry.

Walk by the narrow door, because, I tell you, many will try to enter and will not succeed. then you will find yourself saying:"we once ate and drank in your company; you taught in our streets, but he will reply, "I do not know where you come from. Away from me, all you wicked men!" Yes, there are those now last who will be the first, and those now first who will be last.
(Fr. Peter Fernandes, sfx, pastor. St. Timothy Church, Chicago, Illinois)

On living what we say ...

Ponder on these words of the Blessed Mother Teresa, "Be holy because the God who created you is holy and He loves you."

True to her words, she believes in what she says and lives on what she believes. She shuns the cloak that people of holy stature wear, so to speak, and wear daily the habit of love.

I am appalled to witness people who tell us to follow what they say because of the nature of their position, but don't do what they preach. But Mother Teresa is a unique mold, a one of a kind. She was offered a nice vehicle; she refused to take it. When asked why she lives on the place where the poor, the beggars, the sickly, the refuse of society stay, she replied, " because in them I see God."

I was fascinated when I read about Thomas Merton, the Trappist monk.

A Note on the Hawaiian night


Make a joyful noise...! By: Fr. Peter Fernandes, sfx

Indeed, it was a joyful noise! No... no, it was melodious voices, accompanied with perfect orchestra gave a rousing performance past Saturday, the 7th of August. St. Timothy hosted its annual "Summer Dinner Dance." It was incredible to behold the parish hall with striking distinction. The whole ambiance carried us to a distant land of sunshine and exotic beauty, "Hawaii." The decorations truly resonated the theme of the event, Hawaiian Dance."

All those who came, left the place with a smile and jubilation, only with an intent to return next year to recreate the fun and fellowship, which they have truly cherished. There were close to two hundred people, and the hall was almost packed to its capacity. Thanks to the "Novena Group", who donated two "air conditioner" units, which kept the place from burning into flames, as the people danced to the rhythm of the night. Mike Gallen, our ace carpenter, in a timely manner fixed these two units permanently on the windows in the main hall.

The organizing committee left no stone unturned to make this event a success. It was purely and sincerely their handwork, not for any selfish motive, but to make St. Timothy parish a vibrant community. They put in time and resources to make this event a success, in order to allow the guests to enjoy the evening to the fullest.

Many of our parishioners participated in the event, but most of the participants were guests from outside our parish. It was little disheartening, but not to be discouraged. We have hope, and we are people of hope.We have to keep moving forward to bring people together to celebrate our faith and to strengthen the bonds that bind us together, as one body of Christ.

I express my sincere thanks to the organizing committee for "your dedication, devotion, and determination" to build this community. We have to acknowledge, that we are a diverse community, and we have to learn to participate in all the events, "as parish events." and not of any particular group. In a very special way, I would like to thank, Mr. and Mrs. Nestor and Helen Bongabong, although they live in Joliet, they love our community and selflessly share their time and talent.

A Vatican Visit in Perspective...by Fr. Peter Fernandes, sfx.

Sharing One-Priesthood in Christ!

Indeed, what a moment! The gathering of thousands of priest from around the world in Rome to show solidarity, to pray and witness to sharing of One-Priesthood in Christ in the Catholic Church, under the leadership of the Holy Father, Pope Benedict, the XV1, the Vicar of Christ here on earth. The whole atmosphere filled us with awe and wonder, even in the midst of present crises in the church.

The first two days priests gathered in the Basilica of St. Paul for a meditative talk from Cardinal, followed by Eucharistic adoration. The first talk was on reconciliation. Cardinal reminded over twelve thousand priests gathered together, the need for confession. What would you prefer,"a loving and forgiving embrace from God in the sacrament of confession, or standing alone with self-righteousness-claiming I have no sins? The latter attitude has wide spread, which is a cause for many of our maladies. The prodigal son preferred the embrace of the father, rather than to stay away from Him with pride. It was encouraging to see so many priests standing in line to receive the sacrament of confession.

The second day, the meditation was on the nature of Priesthood. Cardinal Marc Ouelette reminded that the gift of priesthood is for service. At the prayer vigil in the evening at St. Peter's Basilica, five questions were posed to the Holy Father by five priests from five continents. Questions mostly related to priesthood and priestly ministry in the world. Holy Father promptly answered the questions as a theologian and as a pastor.The vigil ended with Eucharistic adoration, benediction and solemn blessing.

In the backdrop of the sex scandal, the Pope in his homily had this to say to all priest. "Had the Year for Priests been a glorification of our individual human performance, it would have been ruined by these events. But for us what happened was precisely the opposite: we grew in gratitude for God's gift, a gift concealed in "earthen vessels" which ever anew, even amid human weakness, makes his love concretely present in this world. So let look upon all that happened as a task which we bring to the future and which makes us acknowledge and love all the more the great gift we have received from God. In this way, his gift becomes a commitment to respond to God's courage and humility by our own courage and our own humility."

I am truly fortunate to be part of this great gathering of the priests on the occasion of the 150th death anniversary of St. John Mary Vianney. This is a first such gathering in the history of the church. This would not have been possible for me to attend, if not for St. Timothy parishioners, who generously contributed to my trip to Rome. In a very special way, I would like to thank Pat Johnson, and the Liturgy Committee who initiated this process. I am humbled by your love, generosity, and faith. Pray for me that I may be able to serve the Lord in a worthy manner, and be a humble servant to His people.

08/13/10, Friday

Lector: Transfiguration Church/ Novena of Jesus of Nazarene ( A Quiapo, Manila style)

Every Friday of the week in the north side of Chicago at Transfiguration Church there is a 7:00 pm Rosary followed by Novena of Jesus of Nazarene then Mass. This is a devotion particularly activated by Filipinos who have taken roots in Illinois. This ethnic group had glued themselves to the true religion which was rammed to them by the Spanish conquestadores and missionaries. This devotion has its origin based at the heart of Manila which is Quiapo.This Quiapo Church which is the hub of human traffic hold masses almost very hour unceasingly due to the influx of Filipinos from all over the Philippines Archipelago ( Visayas and Mindanao) to the capital of the Philippines to study, to work, to visit or to be permanent residents.

This quest for the improvement of life goaded them to seek shelter in the city's progress, and the promise of tempting opportunities in all aspects of human endeavor.
And when their provincial shoes touched the metropolitan pavement, their first instinct is to be grateful for the safe journey leading them to seek a refuge which is no other but the House of God. The people flock where the flow is. Not all are Roman Catholics but they pray to God, nevertheless.

On Wednesdays, the flow veers to Baclaran for the devotion to the Mother of Perpetual Help. Meanwhile on Thursdays, it is St. Jude devotion.

On vanity...

This world is full of that vanity- conceit, excessive pride in oneself.

This is a period of my life that I saw different signs in the walls of time. People young and old paint their bodies, adorn them bodies with diamonds even their tongues.

Near a diamond store in the mall, a man approached me to buy diamond as his wife is a salesperson.I told him that diamonds are forever luxuries what we need are necessities. Look at me, I said to him, I don't have a watch what for when I have a cellphone that tells time and offers me my needs of infos ...

Vanity of vanities.... all is vanity!
(Fr. Peter Fernandes, sfx)

This is a beautiful Phrase, but also a hard reality, which challenges the status-quo of our thought process, and the world-view we hold so dearly. Indeed, the empirical world is nothing but, vanity of vanities, all is vanity.Philosopher Heraclitus coined this world's outlook with another startling chapter, " You cannot step in the same river twice." change is constant, and change is here to stay. How do we perceive this reality in our universe? Does it have any effect in the way we conduct our life knowing that we are just pilgrims? These are vital questions to discern wisdom and find true meaning in our existence.

Such a reflection of this beautiful expression allows us to put things into proper perspective. However, if not rooted in God, it could lead to despair and anguish.If the empirical realities constantly change, the supernatural beings exist beyond the realm of change and exist for eternity. the human body is subject to change, the soul belongs to the supernatural realm, and it continually struggles to reunite to the eternal substance. This struggle determines our purification and true holiness.

The author of the book of Ecclesiastes had this thought in mind to impart wisdom, by sighting the profound truth of the empirical reality. "Vanity of vanities, all is vanity!" Therefore, do not cling to the worldly things, they will all pass away. It seems grat injustice that a man, who has labored wisely, skillfully, and successfully, must leave what is his own to someone who has not toiled for it all. Therefore, we hsve to learn and use the faculties of the soul-knowledge of first cause and principle (we commonly understand as God) grown in faith, hope and charity.

Fool! This very night the demand will be made, we will have overcome overcome the ignorance; otherwise, ignorance will lead us to eternal darkness. Now is the time to decipher life's code, and live in wisdom-detachment from worldly things, and joyful embrace to the faculties of our soul. St Paul writing to the Christians of Collossae reminds them, "since you have been brought back to true life with Christ, you must look for the things that are in heaven, where Christ is sitting at God's right hand."

Because we have been imparted with wisdom, we have to work hard to rid everything that belongs only to earthly life: fornication, impurity,guilty passion, evil desires and especially greed, which is the same thing as worshiping false gods. In Christ, we have been stripped of our old self, and put on new self, which will progress towards true knowledge the more it is renewed in the image of its Creator. The philosophers of old sought this wisdom; we sre given it for free in Christ Jesus. Therefore, do not take it for granted, but give God thanks always, and conduct your life with wisdom.

Get on your knees!

Prayer is a powerful weapon, and when used properly, blessings rain down abundantly. Know for sure, even the heart of a hardcore criminal will transform, when touched by the power of prayer. Mahatma Gandhi would say, "Prayer is a key in the morning and lock at night." Therefore, get on your knees and learn to pray with sincere heart and mind, for your Creator is just a prayer away.

There are different forms, methods, dispositions, and literature to connect in prayer, which are vital for our growth in our spiritual and moral life. Jesus takes us to another level of relationship with our Creator, inviting us to engage in a filial relationship with God calling Him "Our Father". The relationship with God, as father-child is a paradigm shift from the whole concept of relating to an unknown deity residing in an unknown place.

The revelation of Jesus and the mystery of our salvation are weaved so beautifully together in order to create a profound relationship with our Eternal God. In Jesus, we have become the children of God and heirs to eternal Life in His Kingdom. Therefore, only Jesus could teach us to pray by calling God,"Our Father."This relationship then leads us to build a just and egalitarian society with brotherhood of men.

The void in our societies is the reflection of the emptiness in the hearts of individual people.Without our knowledge, this vacuum then unleashes a series of unwarranted consequences, which bend our knees, without us realizing the reason for our misfortune. Therefore, it is an imperative to fill the emptiness with true faith in God our Creator. It has no cost, but offered freely to all men of goodwill.

Get down on your knees and pray, for your Creator is just a prayer away. Build a healthy filial relationship with God, Our Father, who cares for us at all times, and loves us unconditionally. He offers forgiveness, and grants us mercy and pardon that we may rejoice in His embrace.Why do you want to miss out on this opportunity, and go about with pride? In humility, bend your knees in prayer, and peace will flow into your heart without measure. Amen. ( Fr. Peter Fernandes, sfx.)

A Lector's prayer...

Merciful Father help me to follow;
lead me to Thy eternal meadow
where life-giving and healing water flow
be my Guide, my Light and let me glow.

With you by my side I will walk;
Father be with me like a dove
hovering and watching while I talk
to spread and share the message of Love.

I will follow Thee and Thy ways
so Thou will be with me always
enlighten me, make me not to falter
guide me, be with me, now, here and after.

An Addendum on Hospitality

I grew up in a country where hospitality echoes in the air. We trust everybody. We love to be visited by somebody we don't know. Even in our humbleness and country homeliness we still have the heart to dress a chicken, prepare a meal for the hungry, and a drink made up of a native concoction to quench a thirst.

When I went to college away from my place of birth, I encountered friendly people from all walks of life. There was that reciprocal intent of being accommodating. During my time, I am always welcome by strangers as I always welcome them. I was in a diverse world so to speak, far from my parents, no cell phones, no phone calls rarely a land transportation, mostly on water. And all I have was a prayer injected in my cranium by  Catholic school education and of being hospitable to anyone.

On Hospitality

Indeed, the hospitality shown by people towards others, especially to strangers is a noble act. A friendly welcome breaks the ice of coldness and builds lasting relationships of friendship and trust. The tourism industry thrives because it has created a friendly and welcoming atmosphere in their surrounding, as well as among the workers by greeting all the guests with warmth. All are welcome but at a price. It is artificially created for the sole purpose of profit.

St. Timothy parish (located in the West Rogers Park which is in the north side of Chicago) is composed of different ethnic communities, which is a challenge, as well as being the beauty of a Catholic parish. It was a natural outcome for this community to be hospitable and welcoming. The first Sunday of the month- we call it Hospitality Sunday here at St. Timothy parish- gives us an opportunity to go out of our comfort zone, to associate with others, especially those whom we do not know.

In a desert-like area, where Abraham resided in the land of Canaan, hospitality is sacred even today. A person asking for shelter is never turned away; to do so, would amount to condemning the person to die of hunger and thirst. Abraham would have fulfilled his duty of hospitality towards anyone coming to him, but something in his heart told him that these were no ordinary people. In fact, he soon discovered that they were God's messengers, nay, God himself accompanied by two angels.

In today's gospel (Luke 10:38-42), Luke tells us of the visit of God to another family, this time, not "in the form of man" but truly became a man Jesus. This Jesus desires to come into every person's heart in the form of bread and wine. Therefore, we should be joyful like Abraham and Martha and prepare our hearts with love and gratitude. to receive Him. It is an august moment! Like Mary, we should recognize the gift of eternal presence and listen to the words of wisdom.

Nevertheless, Jesus wishes that we welcome all, especially the poor, the orphans, the widows, the strangers, and the most vulnerable of society in His name. For Jesus said, "Whatever you do to the least of my brethren, you have done it unto me." Let us never close our lives to anyone, but welcome people with faith and joy.
( Fr. Peter Fernandes, sfx, July 18/2010}

On a Friday afternoon by the Park


On a hot summer afternoon
by the park sitting on a bench
I met Kahn of Pakistan alone.

A man of fourscore years and kind
nipping his life with Marlboro,
politely asked me if I don't mind.

Smoke curls out of four sections
happily, children play and grow
sans the formal introductions.

Bereft of suspicion and strife;
innocence, acceptance, and love
surfaced in the playground of life,

that everybody's music resounds
in any park or stage of life;
and camaraderie abounds.

The mind creates noble ideas;
let the heart speaks of unity,
mercy,compassion,forgiveness.

When the heart speaks; the mind listens
making this world a paradise
rancor will vanish, justice glistens.

My outlook of this high-tech globe
on that afternoon by the park
led me to renew, to get involved.

Yonder on a bench two lovers
enjoy the moment like a lark
and the vision of life hovers.

on bondage...  By: Greg In Trabanca

I still remembered distinctly my first flight to a big world beyond my small world. I have traveled to different places but this one pumped my adrenaline. In the mirror of my mind I could visualize the flashes of my dreams, the pictures of what will be but will it be?

What really clung to the very fiber of me on that day was freedom. I knew what that word meant but I have yet to savor the new beginning, the new changing, the new environment, the new me.

I was on a big plane , Northwest 747. I was blinded by excitement. What I was thinking was nothing but to savor freedom, to be free from the bondage of so many pressures that pester me and like an arrow ready to hit my Achilles heel.

I saw in my horizon looming questions.

Many questions. Will there be answers? Solutions? On this new frontier? I doubt it.

Deluged with these unknown feelings, I was. Now I am free. This territory that I have known through books, radio, and stories from people. Now it is real. I touched it. I felt it. My body tingled.

The years floated by like the birds of prey in the sea of my yearning-to-learn life. I love to learn. Life is full of hidden treasures.To me, learning stops when my new life begins.

Now I learn that I am still in bondage in the land of the free and the home of the brave. Like so many of us from foreign shores, and don't tell me you are not.

When we step the soil of this new found land, we are readily welcome with open arms by the media, the merchants, the advertisers, the car dealers, the real estate agents, the banks, the mortgage companies.They all want us to be in debt; we are chained to the debt bondage. We are not aware of that. And they like that.

Truth and the deadly consequence!

Are we really homeowners? condo-owners? townhome owners? Do we all hold the titles of home, the car? How about the things that gave us instant gratifications - the big TV, the furniture, etc. Are they not paid by checks and credit or debit cards?

That was April 5 of '74 when I glimpsed the beauty of Seattle because I was not sleepless on that trip. That was cool. Only a couple of questions on the port of entry. I passed as I only answered yes or no. I am a few word person. I hate long speeches.

Chicago, here I come. Al Capone. Carl Sandburg. Sears Tower. Daley City. And Chicago is the Windy City.  Later, I found out that the city is really windy and the politicians, too. Am I politically correct?

Freedom or bondage?

Friday, Nov 20, 2009

Reading- Maccabees 4:36-37, 52-59

...They celebrated dedication of the altar and and joyfully offered burnt offerings.

Gospel - Luke 19:45-48

Jesus entered the temple area and proceeded to drive out those who were selling things, saying to them, "It is written, My house shall be a house of prayer, but you have made it a den of thieves."

On the homily, Fr.Floredo threw the question on why and how we behave on God's dwelling: the temple, a place of worship. That it must not be a place for gossips, but for concentration to God. And it echoed on my conscience that our body is the temple of God as he created us. In like manner, we should give it due reverence by treating it with loving care and not making it a den of worldly dins that drowned our very existence to doom and perdition.

Josef Pieper, a renowned German Catholic philosopher wrote why we need Christ to cleanse the Temple thus: How is an intentional turning away of the will from the very quintessence of all good - toward which the will is inherently oriented by its very nature - even conceivable? How is it possible that the willing person can abuse his freedom so as to decide against the good?... Sin... has its ground of possibility in nothing other than in the fact that man is a creature: "Seen from the point of view of its nature, every spiritual creature has the ability to sin" (Saint Thomas Aquinas) It is because of his creatureliness that man is capable of sinning..."The creature is dark, insofar as it stems from nothing."...But what does "stem from nothing" mean, if not "to be created"! And precisely this - the fact that descent from nothing is inherent in every creature - is the deepest ground for man's capacity for sin, for his posse peccare: such is Thomas' opinion. In other words, not because the will is free, but rather "because the free will comes from nothing, that is why it is inherent to it not to remain in the good by nature." At the same time, of course, Thomas says that such a "bent toward evil" comes to the will "not by virtue of its origin from God, but because of its origin from nothing."
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10/04/09-Wed

Drove Fr.Peter de Mello to the Women's Center at Cicero Ave, south of Foster Ave for a 12:00 noon Mass.We arrived on time. At least 15 people attended; 5 men including the priest. A solemn mass that begun with this prayer: O sweet Jesus, Prisoner of Love in the Most Blessed Sacrament,I adore You profoundly. as I prepare to take part in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, I wish to participate in your redemptive suffering like Simon of Cyrenne, who helped you carry your cross and like your Mother, and the beloved disciple, who suffered silently at the foot of that cross. Most of all give me the heart of the good thief, who realized that he deserved the suffering he was receiving and you did not. Like him, I beg your mercy and implore, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom."

The communion was of the pre-Vatican II format. I knelt and received the host through the mouth not in the palm of my hand.

After the priest concluded the Mass and the response heard, the priest faced the crucifix at the altar,knelt and said this prayer together with the congregation:

Look down upon me, good and gentle Jesus, while before Your face I humbly kneel; and with burning soul pray and beseech You to fix deep in my heart lively sentiments of Faith, Hope and Charity; true contrition for my sins and a firm purpose of amendment; while I contemplate with great love and tender pity Your five wounds, pondering upon them within me: I call to mind the words which David Your prophet said to You,my Jesus, " They have pierced My hands and My feet, they have numbered all my bones."
Then the Prayer to St. Michael:

St. Michael, the Archangel, defend us in battle; be our protection against the malice and snares of the devil. Restrain him O God, we humbly pray, and do Thou, O Prince of the Heavenly Host, by the divine power, cast into hell satan and all the evil spirits, who roam about the world seeking the ruins of soul, Amen.

Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us ( said 3 times )
Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for us
St Joseph, pray for us
St Jude, pray for us.

After maybe a couple of confessions, Fr. de Mello and I left to go back to St. Timothy Rectory at Washtenaw Ave.

Nov.03/09- Tues.

My Bishop Friend

By: Greg In. Trabanca

When I'm down I remember you
that in our life God is the King.
This we must believe to be true.
Man has end and time is fleeting

I always long for your coming
like a rain welcomed by dry field;
while farmers with their guitars sing
the song of thanks and glad tiding.

Tales of justice dot memories;
Your one-way ticket to the States.
The annual love mission appeal;
travel and the airport ordeal.

I drove. I listened. Your stories
reverberated with humbleness.

You met a country folk that paved
the way to your most desired goal:
that you received more when you gave
to the diocese and sans wall.

You watch your flock as shepherds do;
to get rid of sheep-clothing wolves.
As seminarians come and go;
you are firm with those of the robes.

The lean years sapped your energy
yet helping others let you live.
What you are gives you sanity;
not what you take but how you give.


The land's full of vitality.
The blue hill with white sheep astray.
Tropical breeze kissed wrinkled face
The shepherd is tired along the way.

The borrowed car geared you to nap
dreaming in a hospital's lap.

The call past ten in your wrist watch
awakened a friend that cold night.
The East Coast response you didn't catch;
wrestling on spiritual might.

(A poem dedicated to a humble prelate, Msgr. Felix S. Zafra, the first Bishop of Dipolog City diocese in Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines,who taught me the importance of  prayer and of a perpetual adoration to Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.( John 14:13-14) And whatever you ask in my name, I will do so that the Father may be glorified in the son. "If you ask anything of me in my name, I will do so) Msgr. Zafra once walked this wonderful planet and said that above all things we must profoundly put our trust in God. On a related note, by October 30, 2014, a new Bishop will be installed at Dipolog City, Fr. Severo C. Caermare to succeed Bishop Jose' R. Manguiran. Fr. Caermare was born in Sibutad, Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines. He will be the first Bishop from Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines and a homegrown priest. He will be incharge of ecclesial province of Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines.)

My wife is:Evangeline Caermare Trabanca

Gratefulness

Nov. 02/09 - Monday


Day dawns for a glorious new day
For us to understand God's plan                                        
And to  discover His new way
It is in our hands to  expand.

Are we a human being
Or are we a human doing?
Is it vital to work and sing
Or dance to the Holy rhythm?

We are God's gifts to our Jesus
We are precious and beautiful
He takes care and love all of us
Endless mercy and wonderful.

We must believe, love and adore
Be grateful to Him everyday
With Him there is no better score
He is our Life, the Truth, the Way.

Oct.31/09 - Saturday

"Imagination grows by exercise, and contrary to common belief, is more powerful in the mature than in the young." - Paul McCartney.

The person is right. At this point in my life, I could detect the truth to this statement. It seems that daily visits to the computer add feathers to the wings of imagination and like an eagle soars to unforeseen heights.

Back in my bachelor days in my birthland, I used to be with friends and we let our thoughts scamper and flurry in the fields of dreams. And as we stare at the starry sky, we feel that we are in distant land.

It is free to dream. It is a good to dream.
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Today, after the ICC ( Inheritance Communications Corporation) meeting I attended I went to a Filipino store with a restaurant and a bakery. The cold autumn weather led me to the restroom to pee. When I came out I saw a couple on a table. They were done eating. The friendly wife stood up and was palm reading on a man in a 3-piece attire. I thought he was a manager, sales rep but later when we were engaged in a conversation, the truth surfaced that he is a minister of one of the Christian denominations. As our conversations went on , we touched on the delicate topic of religion.the range of topic was seemingly Bible quotations. Obviously, he was a Bible-believing Christian. He was not minding the 10 commandments but was focusing on only the Two - love God above all things and your neighbor as yourself.

As he was dishing out more on religion, I left the restaurant as I have an errand to do. I bought a coconut milk in a can to be mixed with sweet rice for the All Soul's Day celebration.

Oct. 30/09 - Friday

Nothing is new.

What's new today is no longer new tomorrow. And as the sea is never full so is a person's thirst for knowledge is never satiated.

In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God.

" All rivers go to the sea,
yet never does the sea become full.
To the place where they go,
the rivers keep on going.
All speech is labored;
there is nothing man can say.
The eye is not satisfied with seeing
nor is the ear filled with hearing.

What has been, that will be; what has been done, that will be done. Nothing is new under the sun. Even the thing of which we say, "See, this is new!" has already existed in the ages that preceded us. There is no remembrance of the men of old; nor of those to come will there be any remembrance among those who come after them. (Ecclesiastes:1 7-11 )

Oct. 29/09 Thursday

The Fall. Autumn. Change.

I was out in the backyard raking the autumn leaves of Cherry Blossoms, Maple tree, and Ash tree... In our backyard garden, we have a flower terrace-like garden in four layers of irregularly shaped rocks landscaped by a handyman may be, as the garden terrace was already there when we bought this bi-level house 5 years ago. What was amazing was the different flowers dotting it. Now the leaves have fallen. The ground is filled with colors of gold, brown, yellow, and red.

The landscape changed. And I have changed from an obscure town boy to a man, a jack of no trade, journeying into the impossibilities.

Yes, Change! The wheel revolutionizes the world. The computer changed me. From now on this blog site will undergo a change. It is going to emboss memory-prints on the wall of time. Daily on this blog, you'll see quotes that will change our life for the better. As " day by day in every way through the grace of God, we are getting better and better."

The advent of the computer changed my lifestyle. It is what I am at this point in time. Amazing! You bet. And once again I am nimble with my fingers; no longer with the pen.

So dear friends and lovers of life. Stay with me as we journey together in the land, sea, and air of life. Travel is fun. And quotes from great minds will map guide us.

And so we begin...

Oct.27, 2009 - Tuesday

On Inspiration

My Oxford English Mini Dictionary, the world's most trusted dictionary defines the noun inspiration as a sudden brilliant idea or something inspiring. The verb inspires means to stimulate activity; encourage ( a feeling ); cause to feel uplifted.

10/17/09, Saturday

Beautiful, meaningful words are vitamins that enhance your will to live. Always seek for things beautiful. Anything that exudes good smell, pleasing to the eyes, or just simple plain positiveness.

These are beautiful words:

" There is goodness as well as greatness in simplicity not in wealth."
"The greatness of a person lies in his heart, not in his head, that is intellect."

And this:
Learn from the mistakes of others... You can't live long enough to make them all yourselves!.

" A person should not be too honest. Straight trees are cut first and honest people are screwed first." - Chanakya

" The biggest guru-mantra is: Never share your secrets with anybody. It will destroy you."- Chanakya

What I am sharing are not secrets as they are printed in books and the internet. The secret is- putting these WORDS into action making them a part of your life, taking risks, embracing change, and instilling discipline into the sanctum of your being.
Before I forget to keep your life simple and seek peace and don't lose sight of just being simply YOU!

10/09/09, Friday

(J4F CLUB) 1000+ cards Reached

What a relief! At long 7 years past, a dream comes to reality. "Yes, dear, we are there. I want to finish up recording everything that has come in today and we will get the order in."

Thank God. Never be without greeting God, thanking Him for His Love, His Goodness. And for Life, Health, Work/Job, Success, and Failures.

Came across The Art of Forgiving thus:

* The most creative power given to human spirit is the power to heal the wounds of a past it cannot change.

* We do our forgiving alone inside our hearts and minds; what happens to the people we forgive depends on them.

*The first person to benefit from forgiving is the one who forgives.

* Forgiving happens in the three stages: we discover the humanity of the person who wronged us; we surrender our right to get even, and we wish that person well.

*Forgiving is a journey; the deeper the wound, the longer the journey.

* Forgiving does not require us to reunite with the person who broke our trust.

* We do not forgive because we are supposed to; we forgive when we are ready to be healed.

* Waiting for someone to repent before we forgive is to surrender our future to the person who wrongs us.

* Forgiving is not a way to avoid pain but to heal the pain.

* Forgiving someone who breaks trust does not mean that we give him his job back.

* Forgiving is the only way to be fair to ourselves.

* Forgivers are not doormats; to forgive a person is not a signal that we are willing to put up with what he or she does.

* Forgiving is essential; talking about it is optional. When we forgive, we set a prisoner free and discover that the prisoner we set free is ourselves.

*When we forgive we walk in stride with our forgiving God.

Sunday, Sept. 13, 2009

7th day of the Novena to our Lady of the Rosary at Jun Ramirez's place in Roselle, Illinois sponsored by the Labasonians of Illinois.

Mass celebrants were: Frs. Manny Recera and Alan Lastimosa.

Friday, Sept.11,2009

My wife and I were invited to The Best of 10, a dinner-dance-concert presented by The Silayan Singers. Place: Meridian Banquets, 1701 Algonquin Rd., Rolling Meadows, Illinois
It's dubbed the best of 10 as this the 10th of this group's existence sharing its music to brighten our world in the gloom. And it did bring joy to aching hearts, rhythm to irregular steps in life's journey, and revival of friendship in oblivion.

Building a Community!

I take this opportunity to express my sincere thanks to "The Parish and Family Life Commission," for your dedication, devotion, and determination. The committee for the "Summer Dinner Dance," once again made it a memorable evening for everyone who came for the party. Building a community of faith involves different ideas and many hands. I am pleased to have so many committed parishioners who give of themselves to make it better for all.

As the musical evening was unfolding with excitement, we encountered another electrifying situation. A pipeline from the girl's bathroom broke and flooded the basement, which interrupted the party. Nevertheless, there was no panic, everyone understood the situation, and closed the evening with goodwill. It brought back the memories of the movie "Titanic". People danced to the music 'till water covered the full floor. What a sight to behold! Nobody complained, but left with cheer to return next year for this event.

The best in our community was manifested in this crisis. Most were willing to lend their helping hands. The organizing committee took upon themselves the cleaning and clearing of the water from the basement. They stayed 'till late into the night, and only when everything was taken care of, they left the premises. I am ever grateful to you for making such sacrifices to bring people together to build a community of faith.

The Gospel reminds us of a precious gift, which God our Father offers to us, his people Jesus, His own Son! Through this gift, we are called to form a community of faith and the mystical body of Christ. "I am the living bread which has come down from heaven. Anyone who eats this bread will live forever, and the bread I shall give is my flesh for the life of the world." This gift of God beckons us to come together, and share our lives with one another.

Sincere gratitude to the "Parish and Family Life Commission" for organizing different events in the parish, to help accomplish the goal of building a community of faith, by sharing your time and talent. With this in mind, letters are being sent out to families to invite other families to strengthen our parish and family life. I wish you the best and God's abundant blessing on each one of you.

-Fr. Peter Fernandez, sfx was inspired to write this on that unforgettable Hawaiian summer night of live music and dancing shoes to the delight of the parish community.