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.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
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.
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.
Tuesday, September 08, 2009
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.
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.
Sunday, August 02, 2009
Monday, July 27, 2009
The Body and Blood of Christ
Only in the Catholic Church is the mystery of the Body and Blood of Christ given the highest veneration, and kept alive in true faith by the command of the Lord, "Do this in my memory." Jesus came on earth to gather God's people together, into one community. It is well said that the gathering of the people around the banquet table creates equality with dignity. Hence, at the Eucharistic table, all are welcome to partake of one bread and of one cup, in order to form One Body of Christ.
Today, we rejoice and give praise to our Lord for having given himself as our own spiritual food and drink in the Holy Eucharist. We Christians celebrate this mystery with great joy and faith, as this is an imperative for our sprititual growwth, and food for the journey. this mystery allows us to contemplate ever better our absolute need of the Eucharist for our Christian life, both as individual and as a community.
However, there are many who do not believe this mystery to be true, and they chose to walk away depressed and discouraged. The account of the two disciples on their way to Emmaus after the death of Jesus, gives us an indication of defeat and loss they were suffering. Nevertheless, these disciples had what it would take to believe. They possessed an openness to God's Spirit. They were blessed to witness the first Eucharistic miracle. At the breaking of the bread they recognize the presence of the Risen Lord.
The Risen Lord is really and truly present in the form of bread and wine. It is neither a total physical presence nor total spiritual presence, but the real presence of the Risen Lord.We believe in faith, and accept it as the perfect gift from God to humanity. "Unless you eat my flesh and drink my blood you have no life within you." Jesus offered his life on the cross, as the sacrificial lamb for our redemption. God gave us new life through the life of His Son, Jesus, in the Holy Spirit, which we receive in fullness at the Eucharistic Table.
As disciples of Jesus Christ, and members of the Body of Christ, we are called to transform society. Our mission is to imitate Jesus, who broke himself and spilled his blood to give us life. He invites us to do the same for our brothers and sisters around us. When we truly share our life with others, we help to complete the sacrifice of Jesus to heal the world and establish God's Kingdom here in our midst.
-Fr. Peter Fernandes,sfx, St. Timothy Church, Chicago, Illinois, USA.
Only in the Catholic Church is the mystery of the Body and Blood of Christ given the highest veneration, and kept alive in true faith by the command of the Lord, "Do this in my memory." Jesus came on earth to gather God's people together, into one community. It is well said that the gathering of the people around the banquet table creates equality with dignity. Hence, at the Eucharistic table, all are welcome to partake of one bread and of one cup, in order to form One Body of Christ.
Today, we rejoice and give praise to our Lord for having given himself as our own spiritual food and drink in the Holy Eucharist. We Christians celebrate this mystery with great joy and faith, as this is an imperative for our sprititual growwth, and food for the journey. this mystery allows us to contemplate ever better our absolute need of the Eucharist for our Christian life, both as individual and as a community.
However, there are many who do not believe this mystery to be true, and they chose to walk away depressed and discouraged. The account of the two disciples on their way to Emmaus after the death of Jesus, gives us an indication of defeat and loss they were suffering. Nevertheless, these disciples had what it would take to believe. They possessed an openness to God's Spirit. They were blessed to witness the first Eucharistic miracle. At the breaking of the bread they recognize the presence of the Risen Lord.
The Risen Lord is really and truly present in the form of bread and wine. It is neither a total physical presence nor total spiritual presence, but the real presence of the Risen Lord.We believe in faith, and accept it as the perfect gift from God to humanity. "Unless you eat my flesh and drink my blood you have no life within you." Jesus offered his life on the cross, as the sacrificial lamb for our redemption. God gave us new life through the life of His Son, Jesus, in the Holy Spirit, which we receive in fullness at the Eucharistic Table.
As disciples of Jesus Christ, and members of the Body of Christ, we are called to transform society. Our mission is to imitate Jesus, who broke himself and spilled his blood to give us life. He invites us to do the same for our brothers and sisters around us. When we truly share our life with others, we help to complete the sacrifice of Jesus to heal the world and establish God's Kingdom here in our midst.
-Fr. Peter Fernandes,sfx, St. Timothy Church, Chicago, Illinois, USA.
Salvation through the name of Jesus...
Living in a multi-ethnic community here on Devon Avenue, (north side of Chicago, Illinois)presents a challenge to our claim about Jesus. Is salvation only through the name of Jesus? Or is salvation also available through other sources? This dilemma continues to baffle humanity in its quest to find the truth about the mystery of our existence.
The rulers and elders of the people during the time of the apostles were confused. How is it that such power and wisdom is attached to these simple folks? St. Peter explains, it is by the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, the one you crucified, whom God raised from the dead. The resurrection of Jesus is the greatest miracle, which defies human limitations and comprehensions. Never before, had such an event defined our existence, nor thereafter. therefore, St. Peter concludes, "For of all the names in the world given to men, this is the only one which we can saved."
Human history is filled with religious leaders and mythological figures claiming to be the savior of humankind, but no one could defy nature to claim supremacy over creation like that of Jesus. The teachings of Jesus of Nazareth, surpasses all human wisdom and knowledge. Unlike other leaders, who only point to the truth, but have no truth, Jesus says of Himself, "I am the way, the truth and the life." These words of Jesus accompanied such power as never seen before, "What is easier to say, your sin are forgiven, or to say rise, take up your mat and walk."
Jesus is the Good Shepherd, who lays down his life for his sheep. He desires that all hear his voice and come to his fold, for there can only one flock, and one shepherd. He does not force anyone, but offers his invitation in freedom and love. Unlike the rest of us, who are subject to the power of nature; no one has power over Jesus. He offers his life freely, and with that same freedom he brings it back to life to define our existence, in order to show us the ultimate truth, which will be our path to eternal life.
In the name of Jesus we have salvation. He is the Good Shephed and all of us who are baptized are his flock. He calls us by name and leads us to the eternal fountain. Let us not be baffled by claims from different religions, but be firm in our faith in Jesus, who is our Lord and Savior. Jesus is the only way, the truth and the life. Salvation is only in the name of Jesus.
-Fr. Peter Fernandes, sfx. St. Timothy Church, Chicago, Illinois, USA
The Mouthpiece of God!
A call to proclaim the message of God is a privilege with responsibility. However, to fulfill such a mission is a challenge even unto death. Not many dare to hear the voice of God for the fear of losing one's life. It is an irony, God calls people not to take their lives, but to give life and give it in abundance.. The obstinate nature of humankind threatens the prophets of God and those who proclaim his message; it is because God's message often subverts worldly thinking.
Amos was a native of Judah.He was a shepherd and a dresser of sycamore trees. He was sent by God to speak in His Name to the people of Israel - the northern kingdom which had broken away from Judah. Amos is told very bluntly that he is not wanted and is to go back where he came from. Nevertheless, such threats do not deter the zeal of a prophet. Amos was fearless in the face of persecution to bring home the message of God to his people, who were misled by the religious and civil leaders. Such a stance defines the prophetic vocation.
Today, the Catholic Church is the mouthpiece of God to the whole of humanity. The secular culture of our time is misleading humanity to a destructive end. This culture is thriving with false teachings, and pseudo hopes, which many have gladly embraced. More than ever before, the Catholic Church is beckoned to play the prophetic role of instructing people about the gospel of Jesus Christ and His eternal Kingdom. The secular media accuses the church to stay away from public life. However, the Catholic Church cannot and will not bow to such pressure, because it is her nature to be a prophetic voice in the world.
Jesus sends the twelve into the world to proclaim the message of repentance and healing with authority. The same authority is conferred on all the baptized. We are sent into the world to be a leaven of love, peace, faith and hope. How do we live our vocation? When we are questioned and threatened, because we are disciples of Jesus, do we respond like the prophet Amos? Or, have we succumbed to the pressure of this secular culture, which is misleading humanity to a deadly end?
Let us remember, we are the mouthpiece of God, called to proclaim His message of forgiveness, with the hope of glorious reward in his kingdom. "Be not, be afraid", take courage, like the prophet Amos, to live as a friend of God, rather than to seek comfort here on earth, and stand on the opposite side of God.
Living in a multi-ethnic community here on Devon Avenue, (north side of Chicago, Illinois)presents a challenge to our claim about Jesus. Is salvation only through the name of Jesus? Or is salvation also available through other sources? This dilemma continues to baffle humanity in its quest to find the truth about the mystery of our existence.
The rulers and elders of the people during the time of the apostles were confused. How is it that such power and wisdom is attached to these simple folks? St. Peter explains, it is by the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, the one you crucified, whom God raised from the dead. The resurrection of Jesus is the greatest miracle, which defies human limitations and comprehensions. Never before, had such an event defined our existence, nor thereafter. therefore, St. Peter concludes, "For of all the names in the world given to men, this is the only one which we can saved."
Human history is filled with religious leaders and mythological figures claiming to be the savior of humankind, but no one could defy nature to claim supremacy over creation like that of Jesus. The teachings of Jesus of Nazareth, surpasses all human wisdom and knowledge. Unlike other leaders, who only point to the truth, but have no truth, Jesus says of Himself, "I am the way, the truth and the life." These words of Jesus accompanied such power as never seen before, "What is easier to say, your sin are forgiven, or to say rise, take up your mat and walk."
Jesus is the Good Shepherd, who lays down his life for his sheep. He desires that all hear his voice and come to his fold, for there can only one flock, and one shepherd. He does not force anyone, but offers his invitation in freedom and love. Unlike the rest of us, who are subject to the power of nature; no one has power over Jesus. He offers his life freely, and with that same freedom he brings it back to life to define our existence, in order to show us the ultimate truth, which will be our path to eternal life.
In the name of Jesus we have salvation. He is the Good Shephed and all of us who are baptized are his flock. He calls us by name and leads us to the eternal fountain. Let us not be baffled by claims from different religions, but be firm in our faith in Jesus, who is our Lord and Savior. Jesus is the only way, the truth and the life. Salvation is only in the name of Jesus.
-Fr. Peter Fernandes, sfx. St. Timothy Church, Chicago, Illinois, USA
The Mouthpiece of God!
A call to proclaim the message of God is a privilege with responsibility. However, to fulfill such a mission is a challenge even unto death. Not many dare to hear the voice of God for the fear of losing one's life. It is an irony, God calls people not to take their lives, but to give life and give it in abundance.. The obstinate nature of humankind threatens the prophets of God and those who proclaim his message; it is because God's message often subverts worldly thinking.
Amos was a native of Judah.He was a shepherd and a dresser of sycamore trees. He was sent by God to speak in His Name to the people of Israel - the northern kingdom which had broken away from Judah. Amos is told very bluntly that he is not wanted and is to go back where he came from. Nevertheless, such threats do not deter the zeal of a prophet. Amos was fearless in the face of persecution to bring home the message of God to his people, who were misled by the religious and civil leaders. Such a stance defines the prophetic vocation.
Today, the Catholic Church is the mouthpiece of God to the whole of humanity. The secular culture of our time is misleading humanity to a destructive end. This culture is thriving with false teachings, and pseudo hopes, which many have gladly embraced. More than ever before, the Catholic Church is beckoned to play the prophetic role of instructing people about the gospel of Jesus Christ and His eternal Kingdom. The secular media accuses the church to stay away from public life. However, the Catholic Church cannot and will not bow to such pressure, because it is her nature to be a prophetic voice in the world.
Jesus sends the twelve into the world to proclaim the message of repentance and healing with authority. The same authority is conferred on all the baptized. We are sent into the world to be a leaven of love, peace, faith and hope. How do we live our vocation? When we are questioned and threatened, because we are disciples of Jesus, do we respond like the prophet Amos? Or, have we succumbed to the pressure of this secular culture, which is misleading humanity to a deadly end?
Let us remember, we are the mouthpiece of God, called to proclaim His message of forgiveness, with the hope of glorious reward in his kingdom. "Be not, be afraid", take courage, like the prophet Amos, to live as a friend of God, rather than to seek comfort here on earth, and stand on the opposite side of God.
July 19, /09
ON PRIESTHOOD...AFTER THE ORDER OF MELCHIZEDEK! (First in a Two Part Series)
PRIESTHOOD is a gift of God to humanity. It is a divine call with responsibility to the Master and the people the priest is called to serve. In the Old Testament, the gift of the priesthood was restricted to just one tribe of Israel, the tribe of Levi. However, the more often than not the priest failed to lead the people into a deeper covenantal relationship with Yahweh, their God. They were responsible for desecrating the temple of God, by false practice and corruption. The prophets denounced priesthood for their false living, and misleading the people from the true worship of Yahweh, which eventually brought destruction of the community of God, and the kingdom of Israel. Nevertheless, for the chosen people, priesthood continued to be a vital segment of the community even at the time of Jesus, and ever after.
Conversely, priesthood in the New Testament is totally a new dimension and dynamic. The new community of God formed by his son, Jesus, finds a new meaning in priesthood. St. Peter in his letter explains this mystery, "Through his cross and resurrection he freed us from sin and death and called us to the glory that has made us a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people set apart." In the words of Jesus to the Samaritan woman, "from now on, people will worship God in spirit and truth." This mystery unfolds in baptism, as we are given His spirit to live in truth.Therefore, every baptized person shares in the priesthood of Christ to offer prayers and supplications.
However, there is another dimension to priesthood, which is the ministerial priesthood. Some are chosen by God from among the common priesthood, to ordain ministers to administer sacraments to his people. Pope Benedict XVI invites, the entire Catholic Church to contemplate the mystery of Priesthood, and to pray earnestly for ordained ministers, during this year dedicated for priests. As we begin this process, we are invited to look at St John Vianney, the patron of priests, on his 150th death anniversary, which is August 4. His simplicity and humility, together with profound love and faith, helped him to overcome human weakness. He became an exemplary priest, and a good shepherd who brought healing and consolation to thousands of people through the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
The ordained ministers have a special share in the priesthood of Jesus, who totally emptied himself, and in obedience offered the sacrifice of his own self for our redemption, to His Father, our eternal God. Therefore, priesthood is the expression of one's encounter with the Risen Lord, who absolutely emptied Himself in order to enter into His Father's glory. Just like many of us, the apostles followed the Lord to gain power and position in Society, while at the same time, failing to understand the Lord's message and example. During the passion and death of Jesus, their failure magnified. They all abandoned Him, and were terrified of losing their lives. The turning point came when they encountered the Risen Lord, and remembered His command, "Do this in my memory." At last they became powerful witness of the Gospel, and with peace and joy, boldly laid down their lives for their Master. St. Paul's encounter with the Risen Lord on his way to Damascus is the epitome' of priesthood. And a total transformation, "From now on it is no longer I who live but Christ who lives in me."
The recent sex scandal of the priests rocked the church and almost brought it to its knees in the United States, and elsewhere in the world.We should have always been on our knees. What an irony! We are forced to kneel and learn the lesson with the wrong subject - the failure of priesthood. The failure of the few priests, sullied the priesthood in the eyes of the world, and opened a new venue for people to question the sacrament. Many lay people fell short of distinguishing the difference between the metaphysical nature of the Sacrament and the empirical reality. Sacrament is conferred on an individual. The individual person is not a sacrament. It is true, the failure of an individual priest can cast aspersion and cause scandal. Nonetheless, the nature of the sacrament remains intact because the sacraments are divine. The misfortune of the ordained ministers, more often than not, is that they forget the sacrament conferred on them is to imitate Christ.
-Fr. Peter Fernandes, sfx.
ON PRIESTHOOD...AFTER THE ORDER OF MELCHIZEDEK! (First in a Two Part Series)
PRIESTHOOD is a gift of God to humanity. It is a divine call with responsibility to the Master and the people the priest is called to serve. In the Old Testament, the gift of the priesthood was restricted to just one tribe of Israel, the tribe of Levi. However, the more often than not the priest failed to lead the people into a deeper covenantal relationship with Yahweh, their God. They were responsible for desecrating the temple of God, by false practice and corruption. The prophets denounced priesthood for their false living, and misleading the people from the true worship of Yahweh, which eventually brought destruction of the community of God, and the kingdom of Israel. Nevertheless, for the chosen people, priesthood continued to be a vital segment of the community even at the time of Jesus, and ever after.
Conversely, priesthood in the New Testament is totally a new dimension and dynamic. The new community of God formed by his son, Jesus, finds a new meaning in priesthood. St. Peter in his letter explains this mystery, "Through his cross and resurrection he freed us from sin and death and called us to the glory that has made us a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people set apart." In the words of Jesus to the Samaritan woman, "from now on, people will worship God in spirit and truth." This mystery unfolds in baptism, as we are given His spirit to live in truth.Therefore, every baptized person shares in the priesthood of Christ to offer prayers and supplications.
However, there is another dimension to priesthood, which is the ministerial priesthood. Some are chosen by God from among the common priesthood, to ordain ministers to administer sacraments to his people. Pope Benedict XVI invites, the entire Catholic Church to contemplate the mystery of Priesthood, and to pray earnestly for ordained ministers, during this year dedicated for priests. As we begin this process, we are invited to look at St John Vianney, the patron of priests, on his 150th death anniversary, which is August 4. His simplicity and humility, together with profound love and faith, helped him to overcome human weakness. He became an exemplary priest, and a good shepherd who brought healing and consolation to thousands of people through the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
The ordained ministers have a special share in the priesthood of Jesus, who totally emptied himself, and in obedience offered the sacrifice of his own self for our redemption, to His Father, our eternal God. Therefore, priesthood is the expression of one's encounter with the Risen Lord, who absolutely emptied Himself in order to enter into His Father's glory. Just like many of us, the apostles followed the Lord to gain power and position in Society, while at the same time, failing to understand the Lord's message and example. During the passion and death of Jesus, their failure magnified. They all abandoned Him, and were terrified of losing their lives. The turning point came when they encountered the Risen Lord, and remembered His command, "Do this in my memory." At last they became powerful witness of the Gospel, and with peace and joy, boldly laid down their lives for their Master. St. Paul's encounter with the Risen Lord on his way to Damascus is the epitome' of priesthood. And a total transformation, "From now on it is no longer I who live but Christ who lives in me."
The recent sex scandal of the priests rocked the church and almost brought it to its knees in the United States, and elsewhere in the world.We should have always been on our knees. What an irony! We are forced to kneel and learn the lesson with the wrong subject - the failure of priesthood. The failure of the few priests, sullied the priesthood in the eyes of the world, and opened a new venue for people to question the sacrament. Many lay people fell short of distinguishing the difference between the metaphysical nature of the Sacrament and the empirical reality. Sacrament is conferred on an individual. The individual person is not a sacrament. It is true, the failure of an individual priest can cast aspersion and cause scandal. Nonetheless, the nature of the sacrament remains intact because the sacraments are divine. The misfortune of the ordained ministers, more often than not, is that they forget the sacrament conferred on them is to imitate Christ.
-Fr. Peter Fernandes, sfx.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
26th of July, 2009 Sunday.
ON PRIESTHOOD
After the Order of Melchizedek!
The misfortune of the ordained ministers, more often than not, is that they forget that the sacrament conferred on them is to imitate Christ. Instead they employ the sacrament to accomplish their agenda, and enter into their personal glory.
My life is not about me; it is about Jesus Christ. The vocation of priesthood is to emulate our Master Jesus, who had all the glory one could ever imagine, but relinquished it completely, for our sake to give life, and life in abundance. Priests are given sufficient grace to follow the Lord, but they become vulnerable when they try to gain earthly glory. St. Paul writing to the Corinthians reminds us that he was given a thorn in the flesh to keep from being too elated. He says, "I will all the more gladly boast of my weakness, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities; for when I am weak, then I am strong."
In the midst of the sex scandal of the priests, and the growing fear of another serious scandal of priests embezzling parish funds, the call to holiness during this year of the priest is more earnest than ever before. The cardinal invites priests to engage in personal prayers to celebrate the sacraments more worthily and to make Eucharist the center of priestly spirituality. In the same token, the laity is called upon to pray for their priests. Priests are reminded to make sacrifices to grow in their personal holiness, and in a very special way to give part of their salary for charity and missionary work. The call for renewal is a challenge in this secular world, but priests must remember that "My life is not about me, it's about Jesus Christ." Jesus, being the Lord and Master, condescended to washing the feet of his disciple; we are called to do the same. Undoubtedly, priesthood models Christ.
This year is also a year to rejoice, and to give thanks to God the Father, for blessing humanity with so many good priests, who selflessly give their lives for the sake of the gospel and his Kingdom. The most significant aspect of the year that celebrates the Catholic priesthood is the fact that it is intertwined with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist. Priests bring Jesus Christ to the world. They wholeheartedly celebrate the Sacraments to nourish the lives of the pilgrim people of God. Priests transformed by the Eucharist sincerely reach out. When humanity suffers, priests suffer with them; when injustice prevails priests fight for justice, when the moral fabric of society is in danger priests are the voice of conscience, they feel the hungry, cloth the naked, and they visit the sick and those in prison. Truly, the priesthood is a gift from above, after the order of Melchizedek to be a mediator between God and his people. (To be continued )
-Fr. Peter Fernandes, sfx., St. Timothy Church.
ON PRIESTHOOD
After the Order of Melchizedek!
The misfortune of the ordained ministers, more often than not, is that they forget that the sacrament conferred on them is to imitate Christ. Instead they employ the sacrament to accomplish their agenda, and enter into their personal glory.
My life is not about me; it is about Jesus Christ. The vocation of priesthood is to emulate our Master Jesus, who had all the glory one could ever imagine, but relinquished it completely, for our sake to give life, and life in abundance. Priests are given sufficient grace to follow the Lord, but they become vulnerable when they try to gain earthly glory. St. Paul writing to the Corinthians reminds us that he was given a thorn in the flesh to keep from being too elated. He says, "I will all the more gladly boast of my weakness, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities; for when I am weak, then I am strong."
In the midst of the sex scandal of the priests, and the growing fear of another serious scandal of priests embezzling parish funds, the call to holiness during this year of the priest is more earnest than ever before. The cardinal invites priests to engage in personal prayers to celebrate the sacraments more worthily and to make Eucharist the center of priestly spirituality. In the same token, the laity is called upon to pray for their priests. Priests are reminded to make sacrifices to grow in their personal holiness, and in a very special way to give part of their salary for charity and missionary work. The call for renewal is a challenge in this secular world, but priests must remember that "My life is not about me, it's about Jesus Christ." Jesus, being the Lord and Master, condescended to washing the feet of his disciple; we are called to do the same. Undoubtedly, priesthood models Christ.
This year is also a year to rejoice, and to give thanks to God the Father, for blessing humanity with so many good priests, who selflessly give their lives for the sake of the gospel and his Kingdom. The most significant aspect of the year that celebrates the Catholic priesthood is the fact that it is intertwined with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist. Priests bring Jesus Christ to the world. They wholeheartedly celebrate the Sacraments to nourish the lives of the pilgrim people of God. Priests transformed by the Eucharist sincerely reach out. When humanity suffers, priests suffer with them; when injustice prevails priests fight for justice, when the moral fabric of society is in danger priests are the voice of conscience, they feel the hungry, cloth the naked, and they visit the sick and those in prison. Truly, the priesthood is a gift from above, after the order of Melchizedek to be a mediator between God and his people. (To be continued )
-Fr. Peter Fernandes, sfx., St. Timothy Church.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
July 11, 2009, Saturday.
Birth of Labasonian in Illinois
All routes of Labasonians in Illinois' this Saturday ended at the plush ranch home of Jun Ramirez in Roselle, Illinois. It was an informal, bring your very best, get-together.Jun & his wife Inday nee Villanueva,welcomed them while a retired colonel ( brother-in-law of Jun Ram ) was busy in the backyard roasting 4 large size chickens and the children were busy playing in the newly mowed big suburban lawn.
The balmy, summer suburban air ushered the group to the gazebo, an appropriate venue for the meeting chaired by Melody Wee Carreon. Thus the Labasonian in Illinois was born. And officers were elected. President- Melody W. Carreon, VP- Julius T. Quimbo,Sec- Tresha Nanette A. Chua,Treasurers- Marianita Lagud & Isabel Sabejon,Auditors- Mila L. Gonzal & Israel Orcullo, Muses- Virgie Ebarle, Jessica Brillantes, Marcy D. Maramo, PRO/Social Mgr - Emilio "Jun" Ramirez, Consultants/Advisers- Greg Trabanca, Eve Trabanca, Auring Villanueva, Margie Ramirez, Naty Bolanos, Nene Buctuan.
The following committees were formed: Sports- Kinley Teves, Music- Jun Ramirez & Kinley Teves, Food- Senda Barillo.
The newly formed Group agreed to have a uniform of white T-shirt with a Labasonian word in blue to be created by Jun Ramirez.
Labasonians will join the ZAMNAI HUDYAKA '2009 at Proesel Park, Lincolnwood, Illinois on Aug 1, 2009.
Birth of Labasonian in Illinois
All routes of Labasonians in Illinois' this Saturday ended at the plush ranch home of Jun Ramirez in Roselle, Illinois. It was an informal, bring your very best, get-together.Jun & his wife Inday nee Villanueva,welcomed them while a retired colonel ( brother-in-law of Jun Ram ) was busy in the backyard roasting 4 large size chickens and the children were busy playing in the newly mowed big suburban lawn.
The balmy, summer suburban air ushered the group to the gazebo, an appropriate venue for the meeting chaired by Melody Wee Carreon. Thus the Labasonian in Illinois was born. And officers were elected. President- Melody W. Carreon, VP- Julius T. Quimbo,Sec- Tresha Nanette A. Chua,Treasurers- Marianita Lagud & Isabel Sabejon,Auditors- Mila L. Gonzal & Israel Orcullo, Muses- Virgie Ebarle, Jessica Brillantes, Marcy D. Maramo, PRO/Social Mgr - Emilio "Jun" Ramirez, Consultants/Advisers- Greg Trabanca, Eve Trabanca, Auring Villanueva, Margie Ramirez, Naty Bolanos, Nene Buctuan.
The following committees were formed: Sports- Kinley Teves, Music- Jun Ramirez & Kinley Teves, Food- Senda Barillo.
The newly formed Group agreed to have a uniform of white T-shirt with a Labasonian word in blue to be created by Jun Ramirez.
Labasonians will join the ZAMNAI HUDYAKA '2009 at Proesel Park, Lincolnwood, Illinois on Aug 1, 2009.
Friday, July 10, 2009
July 10/2009, Friday
http://labason.ning.com
It had been quite a long time that I went blogging. Now, inspiration visits my humble self. I am back to the writing keyboard. This time it's about http://labason.ning.com created and crafted by a son of my schoolmate, Nonoy Daguplo at Ferrer High (Now St. Mary College)in Labason,ZN. He is Gary Gabrielle Recentes Daguplo. I have noticed that names of young people in this lovely, fresh fish,sandy beach town called Labason are more than one ; unlike before that we have only one. And that's it.
Time flies.Technology comes. The world changes its paces. And it's called industrial revolution. The speed of communication is crazy. The universe sinks deeper and deeper into its mystery.
We are not crazy, the world is. And you'll find sane meaning in paradox. " A paradox is an idea that is contrary to popular opinion, something that seems to contradict common sense and yet is true." If you accept paradoxes, you are free from the craziness of this planet. For the rest of your life, follow the route that you believe is "right and good and true" because it make sense to you.
And it truly makes sense when Gary G Recentes Daguplo hatched an idea of uniting Labasonians globally.
"A story is told of a young Egyptian foreman who was supervising the laying of the foundation of one of the pharaoh's pyramids. The foreman was out in the hot sun, encouraging, watching and correcting the work. Whenever he found that the massive stones did not fit perfectly, he would have them realigned until they were just right.
Another foreman watched him, and finally came over to give him advice. " The foundation will all be under the ground. Nobody will see it." he said, shaking his head. "Don't worry about it. Nobody will know."
"I will know," the young foreman replied, continuing his work.
When you do what is right and good and true, you will know, and you will remember. That will give you all the personal meaning you need."
This monumental task that Gary did will be recognized but soon it will join with the dust in the cycles of time. What's salient is WHO YOU ARE AS A PERSON. What matters is HOW YOU LIVE. If you live GENUINELY AND GENEROUSLY, who cares what this crazy and chaotic world says or remembers.
Just doing good is okey. This little thing of Gary's website brings a smile, lift the spirit of the Labasonians as they go through their daily grind in the different parts of the globe. Visiting the site brings nostalgia; evokes fun memories that drive worries away, a therapeutic effect physically and spiritually.
The good you do today will be oblivion tomorrow.
Do what is good, any which way.
http://labason.ning.com
It had been quite a long time that I went blogging. Now, inspiration visits my humble self. I am back to the writing keyboard. This time it's about http://labason.ning.com created and crafted by a son of my schoolmate, Nonoy Daguplo at Ferrer High (Now St. Mary College)in Labason,ZN. He is Gary Gabrielle Recentes Daguplo. I have noticed that names of young people in this lovely, fresh fish,sandy beach town called Labason are more than one ; unlike before that we have only one. And that's it.
Time flies.Technology comes. The world changes its paces. And it's called industrial revolution. The speed of communication is crazy. The universe sinks deeper and deeper into its mystery.
We are not crazy, the world is. And you'll find sane meaning in paradox. " A paradox is an idea that is contrary to popular opinion, something that seems to contradict common sense and yet is true." If you accept paradoxes, you are free from the craziness of this planet. For the rest of your life, follow the route that you believe is "right and good and true" because it make sense to you.
And it truly makes sense when Gary G Recentes Daguplo hatched an idea of uniting Labasonians globally.
"A story is told of a young Egyptian foreman who was supervising the laying of the foundation of one of the pharaoh's pyramids. The foreman was out in the hot sun, encouraging, watching and correcting the work. Whenever he found that the massive stones did not fit perfectly, he would have them realigned until they were just right.
Another foreman watched him, and finally came over to give him advice. " The foundation will all be under the ground. Nobody will see it." he said, shaking his head. "Don't worry about it. Nobody will know."
"I will know," the young foreman replied, continuing his work.
When you do what is right and good and true, you will know, and you will remember. That will give you all the personal meaning you need."
This monumental task that Gary did will be recognized but soon it will join with the dust in the cycles of time. What's salient is WHO YOU ARE AS A PERSON. What matters is HOW YOU LIVE. If you live GENUINELY AND GENEROUSLY, who cares what this crazy and chaotic world says or remembers.
Just doing good is okey. This little thing of Gary's website brings a smile, lift the spirit of the Labasonians as they go through their daily grind in the different parts of the globe. Visiting the site brings nostalgia; evokes fun memories that drive worries away, a therapeutic effect physically and spiritually.
The good you do today will be oblivion tomorrow.
Do what is good, any which way.
Friday, May 22, 2009
05/22/09, Friday
Why we need Friends?
If you have reached this far in your life, you'll venture to say that friends are truly a must. What is wealth? - money, palatial home, sleek car, suburbia when no shoulders are there to cry on!
Indeed, we are lured to believe the American dream. Obviously, it is there when we are asleep. But in our waking hours, we are face to face with reality. And what do we need? Wine, women, song! Far from that. We need someone that we can speak the truth quietly and clearly. We need somebody who placidly is with us amid the din, the scare, the diverse face, and phase of this material universe. We want that person who got the sympathy and apathy of the golden rule; that the only element that never changes is change. And the printed words declared that America has now entered a world of change.
We, in a nutshell, need that someone, that somebody, that person to be a Friend.
And I stumbled on this person, who is a child of this universe, no less than the beautiful beach resorts of Bohol, and Rizal's Maria Clara's meaningful feeling of- "Sweet are the hours in one's own land Where all is loved under the sun, Life is the breeze in her fields sweeping, Death is welcome, and love more caring!" And this person has a right to be here, to be called a Friend.
He is my friend, SarCam80@yahoo.com.
Why we need Friends?
If you have reached this far in your life, you'll venture to say that friends are truly a must. What is wealth? - money, palatial home, sleek car, suburbia when no shoulders are there to cry on!
Indeed, we are lured to believe the American dream. Obviously, it is there when we are asleep. But in our waking hours, we are face to face with reality. And what do we need? Wine, women, song! Far from that. We need someone that we can speak the truth quietly and clearly. We need somebody who placidly is with us amid the din, the scare, the diverse face, and phase of this material universe. We want that person who got the sympathy and apathy of the golden rule; that the only element that never changes is change. And the printed words declared that America has now entered a world of change.
We, in a nutshell, need that someone, that somebody, that person to be a Friend.
And I stumbled on this person, who is a child of this universe, no less than the beautiful beach resorts of Bohol, and Rizal's Maria Clara's meaningful feeling of- "Sweet are the hours in one's own land Where all is loved under the sun, Life is the breeze in her fields sweeping, Death is welcome, and love more caring!" And this person has a right to be here, to be called a Friend.
He is my friend, SarCam80@yahoo.com.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
04/28/09
LIFE IS A BALLOON - FRAGILE, SLIPPERY. HANDLE IT WITH CARE!
(From an email sent to me. It wasted too much space so, I redesigned it for better reading.)
* Be kinder than necessary because everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.
* A sharp tongue can cut your own throat.
* If you want your dreams to come true, you must not oversleep.
* Of all the things you wear, your expression is the most important.
* The best vitamin for making friends --- BI (Be One).
* The happiness of your life depends on the quality of your thoughts.
* It doesn't say Work and Grow Rich but THINK and grow RICH.
* Ideas won't work unless YOU do.
* One thing you can give and still keep--- is your WORD.
* One thing you can't recycle is wasted TIME.
* The heaviest thing you can carry is a GRUDGE.
* You lie the loudest when YOU lie to yourself.
* If you lack the COURAGE to start, you have already finished.
* Your MIND is a parachute... it functions only when YOU OPEN.
* The 10 Commandments are not multiple choice.
* The pursuit of happiness is the CHASE of a LIFETIME. It is never too late to become
what you might have been.
* LIFE is too short to wake up with regrets, so LOVE the people who treat YOU right.Forget about the ones who don't.
* Believe everything happens for a reason. If you get a second chance, grab it with both hands.If it changes your life, let it. Nobody said LIFE would be easy; it just promised, it would be worth it.
* LIFE is like BALLOONS; once you let it go, you might not get them back. Sometimes we get so busy with our own LIVES and PROBLEMS and CONCERNS that we may not even notice that we've let them fly away. Sometimes, we are caught up in who's right and who's wrong that we forget what's right and wrong. Sometimes, we just don't realize what REAL FRIENDSHIP means until it is too late. I don't want to let that happen that I'm going to tie YOU to my HEART (and like a balloon that I hold tight) so I"ll never LOSE YOU!
LIFE IS A BALLOON - FRAGILE, SLIPPERY. HANDLE IT WITH CARE!
(From an email sent to me. It wasted too much space so, I redesigned it for better reading.)
* Be kinder than necessary because everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.
* A sharp tongue can cut your own throat.
* If you want your dreams to come true, you must not oversleep.
* Of all the things you wear, your expression is the most important.
* The best vitamin for making friends --- BI (Be One).
* The happiness of your life depends on the quality of your thoughts.
* It doesn't say Work and Grow Rich but THINK and grow RICH.
* Ideas won't work unless YOU do.
* One thing you can give and still keep--- is your WORD.
* One thing you can't recycle is wasted TIME.
* The heaviest thing you can carry is a GRUDGE.
* You lie the loudest when YOU lie to yourself.
* If you lack the COURAGE to start, you have already finished.
* Your MIND is a parachute... it functions only when YOU OPEN.
* The 10 Commandments are not multiple choice.
* The pursuit of happiness is the CHASE of a LIFETIME. It is never too late to become
what you might have been.
* LIFE is too short to wake up with regrets, so LOVE the people who treat YOU right.Forget about the ones who don't.
* Believe everything happens for a reason. If you get a second chance, grab it with both hands.If it changes your life, let it. Nobody said LIFE would be easy; it just promised, it would be worth it.
* LIFE is like BALLOONS; once you let it go, you might not get them back. Sometimes we get so busy with our own LIVES and PROBLEMS and CONCERNS that we may not even notice that we've let them fly away. Sometimes, we are caught up in who's right and who's wrong that we forget what's right and wrong. Sometimes, we just don't realize what REAL FRIENDSHIP means until it is too late. I don't want to let that happen that I'm going to tie YOU to my HEART (and like a balloon that I hold tight) so I"ll never LOSE YOU!
Saturday, January 31, 2009
A Voice from a Colleague (01/31/09)
Today came a profound moment in the pages of my life's history. It started with a long distance call from the West Coast. From one of the COW states; that is California,Oregon and Washington. Very good states to stay as the climate is appealing especially to the not so young ones.
That call was from Manuel Beldua, a colleague, a great and true friend with his loving, supportive wife Cathy. And days of Dipolog School of Fisheries stream in the river of memories. Those days still echo. They are valuable.
Today came a profound moment in the pages of my life's history. It started with a long distance call from the West Coast. From one of the COW states; that is California,Oregon and Washington. Very good states to stay as the climate is appealing especially to the not so young ones.
That call was from Manuel Beldua, a colleague, a great and true friend with his loving, supportive wife Cathy. And days of Dipolog School of Fisheries stream in the river of memories. Those days still echo. They are valuable.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
01/20/09, Tuesday Obama Inauguration
Today, Barack H. Obama was sworn in and became the 44th president of the greatest nation on earth, the United States of America. "Oh say, can you see by the dawn's early light; watch so proudly...America, the beautiful... sweet land of liberty... of thee I sing" and write these few words that would someday echo in the halls of time and memory.
The whole world watched at the dawning of a new America. From sea to shining sea. From continent to continent. And we watch in our living room, glued to the TV screen.
The inauguration was first in my memory of lots of living presidents and vice presidents and their respective wives present. They were: JimmyCarter and wife Rosalyn, George W. Bush Father) & wife,Barbara, Bill And Hilary Clinton, Vice preisidents: Dan Quayle & wife, Walter Mondale & wife, Al Gore & wife, Tipper.
Our 44th president comes from a rare mold. A breed of the past and the present. A colorful combination. A colorful childhood. A well lived life. A life filled with adventure. And finally settled in the Windy City to take root.
Abraham Lincoln failed several times. Pres. Barack Obama failed as a congressional aspirant, yet eight years later became the first African-American candidate to be elected as the 44th president of America. His winning the election was due to his "highly disciplined, perfectionist political organization." Will that same organization be equally brilliant in the governance?
The future is promising with "yes, we can! amidst the natural disasters and overseas conflagration and conflict." We'll wait and see.
Today, Barack H. Obama was sworn in and became the 44th president of the greatest nation on earth, the United States of America. "Oh say, can you see by the dawn's early light; watch so proudly...America, the beautiful... sweet land of liberty... of thee I sing" and write these few words that would someday echo in the halls of time and memory.
The whole world watched at the dawning of a new America. From sea to shining sea. From continent to continent. And we watch in our living room, glued to the TV screen.
The inauguration was first in my memory of lots of living presidents and vice presidents and their respective wives present. They were: JimmyCarter and wife Rosalyn, George W. Bush Father) & wife,Barbara, Bill And Hilary Clinton, Vice preisidents: Dan Quayle & wife, Walter Mondale & wife, Al Gore & wife, Tipper.
Our 44th president comes from a rare mold. A breed of the past and the present. A colorful combination. A colorful childhood. A well lived life. A life filled with adventure. And finally settled in the Windy City to take root.
Abraham Lincoln failed several times. Pres. Barack Obama failed as a congressional aspirant, yet eight years later became the first African-American candidate to be elected as the 44th president of America. His winning the election was due to his "highly disciplined, perfectionist political organization." Will that same organization be equally brilliant in the governance?
The future is promising with "yes, we can! amidst the natural disasters and overseas conflagration and conflict." We'll wait and see.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Here I Am!
The voice of the Lord continuously echoes in several forms and means, but those who listen to His voice are few. "Here I am, " is the response from a young man Samuel, who initially did not recognize the voice of the Lord. However, rather than ignore and fall asleep, Samuel was in tune to listen to the voice of God. His running toward Eli several times, gives us the indication of his willingness to respond to the call, "Speak, Lord, your servant is listening."
Listening is a very important medium to acquire knowledge in order to grow in wisdom; no science has to verify this. The inner voice of conscience is rarely heard by us, therefore listening with concentration and dedication is a gift of God. Some go to the shore to hear the ocean; others go into the woods to listen to the rhythm of nature. Every voice is calling us to live in peace and harmony, and praise God for His majesty.
Two disciples heard John the Baptist calling out, "Look, there is the Lamb of God." Hearing this, the two disciples followed Jesus. Like Samuel, these disciples of John were in tune to listen to the voice of God calling out to them. Blessed is the servant who is vigilant to respond. "Here I am! Speak, Lord your servant is listening." The voice of John the Baptist confirmed the faith of his disciples in Jesus, "We have found the Messiah."
We live in a world buzzing with excitement, noise and chaos. Everyone is shouting from the top of his voice to be heard, but no one is listening. What a tragedy! For the modern world, listening is not a value, but considered as stooping low, which is abhorred by many. The claim to speak and not to listen has infected our society and especially our children, which is abysmal and deplorable. The falling out of the faithful from the congregation is a clear indication of a greater catastrophe to come our way.
"Here I am! Speak, Lord, your servant is listening." A servant model is set by Samuel, which we must emulate in our lives in order to grow in holiness and grace. Disciple means one who listens! We are the disciples of Jesus Christ. Let us listen to Him with concentration and dedication.
(Fr. Peter fernandes, sfx.)
The voice of the Lord continuously echoes in several forms and means, but those who listen to His voice are few. "Here I am, " is the response from a young man Samuel, who initially did not recognize the voice of the Lord. However, rather than ignore and fall asleep, Samuel was in tune to listen to the voice of God. His running toward Eli several times, gives us the indication of his willingness to respond to the call, "Speak, Lord, your servant is listening."
Listening is a very important medium to acquire knowledge in order to grow in wisdom; no science has to verify this. The inner voice of conscience is rarely heard by us, therefore listening with concentration and dedication is a gift of God. Some go to the shore to hear the ocean; others go into the woods to listen to the rhythm of nature. Every voice is calling us to live in peace and harmony, and praise God for His majesty.
Two disciples heard John the Baptist calling out, "Look, there is the Lamb of God." Hearing this, the two disciples followed Jesus. Like Samuel, these disciples of John were in tune to listen to the voice of God calling out to them. Blessed is the servant who is vigilant to respond. "Here I am! Speak, Lord your servant is listening." The voice of John the Baptist confirmed the faith of his disciples in Jesus, "We have found the Messiah."
We live in a world buzzing with excitement, noise and chaos. Everyone is shouting from the top of his voice to be heard, but no one is listening. What a tragedy! For the modern world, listening is not a value, but considered as stooping low, which is abhorred by many. The claim to speak and not to listen has infected our society and especially our children, which is abysmal and deplorable. The falling out of the faithful from the congregation is a clear indication of a greater catastrophe to come our way.
"Here I am! Speak, Lord, your servant is listening." A servant model is set by Samuel, which we must emulate in our lives in order to grow in holiness and grace. Disciple means one who listens! We are the disciples of Jesus Christ. Let us listen to Him with concentration and dedication.
(Fr. Peter fernandes, sfx.)
The Baptism of our Lord.
The Sacrament of Baptism is the key that unlocks the spring of Eternal Life. Holy Baptism holds the first place among the sacraments, because it is the gateway of the spiritual life. By it, we are made members of Christ and incorporated with the Church. The word Baptism is derived from the Greek word, bapto, or baptizo, to wash or immerse. It signifies, therefore, that washing is the essential idea of the sacrament.
If the baptism of John was for repentance, then why did Jesus seek baptism from John at the river Jordan? Objectively and subjectively, Jesus had no need of baptism from John; in fact, John was preparing the people to receive Jesus into their lives. However, theologically this is an important moment for humanity as it continues to unfold the mystery of incarnation. Jesus embraced human nature at his birth.Now at baptism, he takes on human frailties, which he will redeem at his death on the cross.
Christ instituted the Sacrament of Baptism to be an efficacious sign of grace and a share of his salvation. He commands His disciples to baptize all in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and declared explicitly the absolute necessity of baptism. "Unless a man be born again of water and the Holy ghost, he cannot enter into the Kingdom of God.". Therefore, only through the Sacrament of Baptism, the image and likeness of God is restored once again in us , and we are made the children of God and heirs of His Kingdom.
The unfolding of the mystery of incarnation delights the Heavenly Father, "You are my Son, the Beloved; my favor rests on you." This is an affirmation and confirmation of Jesus' ministry oon earth by His Father, and an open invitation for all people to share the glory of his Son. At our baptism, the Heavenly Father embraces each one of us, as His own beloved sons and daughters; since, he perceives the reflection of His Son, Jesus. Needless to say, from baptism on, we are called upon to imitate Christ in our life, and be His reflection to others.
(Fr. Peter Fernandes,sfx)
The Sacrament of Baptism is the key that unlocks the spring of Eternal Life. Holy Baptism holds the first place among the sacraments, because it is the gateway of the spiritual life. By it, we are made members of Christ and incorporated with the Church. The word Baptism is derived from the Greek word, bapto, or baptizo, to wash or immerse. It signifies, therefore, that washing is the essential idea of the sacrament.
If the baptism of John was for repentance, then why did Jesus seek baptism from John at the river Jordan? Objectively and subjectively, Jesus had no need of baptism from John; in fact, John was preparing the people to receive Jesus into their lives. However, theologically this is an important moment for humanity as it continues to unfold the mystery of incarnation. Jesus embraced human nature at his birth.Now at baptism, he takes on human frailties, which he will redeem at his death on the cross.
Christ instituted the Sacrament of Baptism to be an efficacious sign of grace and a share of his salvation. He commands His disciples to baptize all in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and declared explicitly the absolute necessity of baptism. "Unless a man be born again of water and the Holy ghost, he cannot enter into the Kingdom of God.". Therefore, only through the Sacrament of Baptism, the image and likeness of God is restored once again in us , and we are made the children of God and heirs of His Kingdom.
The unfolding of the mystery of incarnation delights the Heavenly Father, "You are my Son, the Beloved; my favor rests on you." This is an affirmation and confirmation of Jesus' ministry oon earth by His Father, and an open invitation for all people to share the glory of his Son. At our baptism, the Heavenly Father embraces each one of us, as His own beloved sons and daughters; since, he perceives the reflection of His Son, Jesus. Needless to say, from baptism on, we are called upon to imitate Christ in our life, and be His reflection to others.
(Fr. Peter Fernandes,sfx)
Sunday, January 04, 2009
The Epiphany of the Lord ( Jan. 4, 2009)
The word "Epiphany" is a rather obscure word for most of us. It is a Greek word, meaning"manifestation", that is, the clear appearing of something or of one unknown to us before.What could not be seen and comprehended, finally is manifested in the child Jesus lying in the manger. Thus, the Feast of the Epiphany can be rightly called the feast of our coming to faith in Christ, who is the manifestation of God to the entire human race.
It was an event which Christians of the early church celebrated with great enthusiasm. There was a good reason for it: the wise men were the first non-Jews who believed in Christ, and early Christians, most of whom had been pagans before, saw in the three wise men three of their own people. They praised God for having called not only the Jews, but pagans as well, to the faith.
"Emmanuel- God with us, " was born on Christmas day. However, in time, Jesus will make God present to the people during his public ministry. People were in awe and wonder, they exclaimed, "He speaks as one with authority, unlike our leaders." Many others praised God saying, " A great prophet has arisen in out midst and God has come to visit his people." The life of Jesus was a continuous Epiphany of God. Emmanuel- God with us!
The church has been entrusted with the same mission, to manifest God through its sacramental life and charity. When the world is challenging the mission of the church, we the disciples have to take courage and stands firm to our call to manifest God to the world. There are many among us who have been led astray to betray the faith , and be a counterwitness to this great mystery. Nevertheless, there are many others, who have given their lives to proclaim the faith with their own blood.
Although, we live in an era not conducive for faith and worship, we are called upon, all the more, to make God present through our life of faith and charity. Mother Teresa of Calcutta became a face of God to suffering humanity through her life of prayer, sacrifice and outreach. The Epiphany of God was seen by many in India and the rest of the world that compelled many to discover the Almighty in charity and faith.
The feast of the Epiphany is the celebration of our faith. Therefore, let us come before God with thankfulness and gratitude for the gift of His Son Jesus, who is the manifestation of the Eternal God, and the source of our faith. Let us live our faith in prayer, sacraments, sacrifice and charity.
-Fr. Peter Fernandes, sfx.
The word "Epiphany" is a rather obscure word for most of us. It is a Greek word, meaning"manifestation", that is, the clear appearing of something or of one unknown to us before.What could not be seen and comprehended, finally is manifested in the child Jesus lying in the manger. Thus, the Feast of the Epiphany can be rightly called the feast of our coming to faith in Christ, who is the manifestation of God to the entire human race.
It was an event which Christians of the early church celebrated with great enthusiasm. There was a good reason for it: the wise men were the first non-Jews who believed in Christ, and early Christians, most of whom had been pagans before, saw in the three wise men three of their own people. They praised God for having called not only the Jews, but pagans as well, to the faith.
"Emmanuel- God with us, " was born on Christmas day. However, in time, Jesus will make God present to the people during his public ministry. People were in awe and wonder, they exclaimed, "He speaks as one with authority, unlike our leaders." Many others praised God saying, " A great prophet has arisen in out midst and God has come to visit his people." The life of Jesus was a continuous Epiphany of God. Emmanuel- God with us!
The church has been entrusted with the same mission, to manifest God through its sacramental life and charity. When the world is challenging the mission of the church, we the disciples have to take courage and stands firm to our call to manifest God to the world. There are many among us who have been led astray to betray the faith , and be a counterwitness to this great mystery. Nevertheless, there are many others, who have given their lives to proclaim the faith with their own blood.
Although, we live in an era not conducive for faith and worship, we are called upon, all the more, to make God present through our life of faith and charity. Mother Teresa of Calcutta became a face of God to suffering humanity through her life of prayer, sacrifice and outreach. The Epiphany of God was seen by many in India and the rest of the world that compelled many to discover the Almighty in charity and faith.
The feast of the Epiphany is the celebration of our faith. Therefore, let us come before God with thankfulness and gratitude for the gift of His Son Jesus, who is the manifestation of the Eternal God, and the source of our faith. Let us live our faith in prayer, sacraments, sacrifice and charity.
-Fr. Peter Fernandes, sfx.
Thursday, January 01, 2009
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Chicago Tribune's Front Headline (12/28/08) :
WET. WARM. WHAT'S NEXT?
DEADLIEST DAY IN GAZA IN DECADES.
The past days Chicago and its surrounding burbs were covered with snow to the point that they became like a white mountain of hard rocks. Now the snow thawed due to the advent of the pouring rain. And now officially 2008 is the wettest year in Chicago history.
Meanwhile, around the world - the Israeli airstrikes that killed hundreds sent Hamas to vow for retaliation.
On the homefront. We were privileged to have visitors from Canada who were from our hometown. Over pan pizza, we dined, talked, reminisced, joked, and laughed.
WET. WARM. WHAT'S NEXT?
DEADLIEST DAY IN GAZA IN DECADES.
The past days Chicago and its surrounding burbs were covered with snow to the point that they became like a white mountain of hard rocks. Now the snow thawed due to the advent of the pouring rain. And now officially 2008 is the wettest year in Chicago history.
Meanwhile, around the world - the Israeli airstrikes that killed hundreds sent Hamas to vow for retaliation.
On the homefront. We were privileged to have visitors from Canada who were from our hometown. Over pan pizza, we dined, talked, reminisced, joked, and laughed.
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