VOLUME I, ISSUE 1|APRIL 2017
Marian Dove, Fly! In this I ssue: The Rector’s Desk The Shrine Chronicles: Fr. Lari’s Installation Installation of EDSA Shrine’s New Pastoral Council Sayaw Kulay Festival: A Dance Festival of Peace Ordination of Rev. Fr. Arnel A. Calata Jr.
The Shrine Chronicles: Our Lady of EDSA in Her 28th Year of Solemnity Block Screening of Beauty and the Beast Shrine Series: EDSA Shrine Weds Off 23 Couple Marian Dove, Fly!
& Rev. Fr. Jonathan Noel M. Mojica
The Shrine Kids Corner
Tulay Ng Kabataan's Mass Baptism
The Shrine Priest’s Corner
Ephesus On Love Day
The Shine Gallery
Page 2
T H E E D S A SH R I N E G A Z E T T E | V O L U M E I , I S S U E 1 | A P R I L 2 0 1 7
THE SHRINE CHRONICLES REV. FR. LARI ABACO IS ENTRUSTED WITH EDSA SHRINE’S TABERNACLE KEYS Rev. Fr. Lazaro B. Abaco, more fondly called as Fr. Lari was formally installed as the new Rector of the Shrine of Mary, Queen of Peace, Our Lady of EDSA last 8th of August 2015 at the 5:30 p.m. mass. He was formerly assigned as the Parish Priest of the Sto. Niño de Pandacan Parish in Manila. He is the 4th Rector to be assigned at the EDSA Shrine, succeeding Rev. Fr. Leo Nilo C. Mangussad, M.S.M. In the Roman Catholic Church, a Rector is the priest appointed to be the administrative leader and spiritual head of a Church or an ecclesiastical institution. Fr. Lari was symbolically entrusted with the keys to the tabernacle and of the church by His Eminence Luis Antonio G. Cardinal Tagle, D.D. Archbishop of Manila and presented to the EDSA Shrine community.
Photos: http://www.rcam.org/gallery/installation-of-fr-larry-abaco
The previous Rectors assigned to EDSA Shrine were as follows: Name
Most Rev. Socrates B. Villegas, D.D.
Years of Rectorship at EDSA Shrine
Present Assignment
1989—2004 (15 years)
Archbishop of Lingayen-Dagupan
Rev. Fr. Victor Y. Apacible
2004—2008 (4 years)
Rector and Parish Priest of the National Shrine of the Sacred Heart, Makati City
Rev. Fr. Leo Nilo C. Mangussad, M.S.M.
2008—2015 (7 years)
Parish Priest of San Roque de Sampaloc Parish, Manila
President of Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines
T H E E D S A SH R I N E G A Z E T T E | V O L U M E I , I S S U E 1 | A P R I L 2 0 1 7
Page 3
THE SHRINE CHRONICLES EDSA SHRINE’S NEW PASTORAL COUNCIL On 28 August 2016, during the 12:15 PM Sunday Mass, the Pastoral Council of the EDSA Shrine was installed and formally introduced to the Community. In the new structure of the council, there are six (6) ministries that will cater to the various endeavors of the church. The officers and ministers of the Pastoral Council are as follows:
Pastoral Council
List of Ministries
Head Coordinators
Overall Couple Mar & Bebong Coordinator Lubangco
Education
Fe Amor Ilagan
Family and Life
Arman & Ester Beltran
Temporalities
Julie Ann Ramos
Public Affairs
Dan Joseph Cruz
Secretary
Priscilla Caro
Social Services
Arnel Cruz
Worship Youth
Twinsy Adajar
EDSA SHRINE’S SAYAW KULAY FESTIVAL: A DANCE FESTIVAL OF PEACE “The Sayaw Kulay is for recalling God’s gifts of Faith, Hope and Love where our journey to democracy and peace is relived.” The EDSA Shrine Community celebrated last 28 October 2016 their first ever Sayaw Kulay Festival, a dance festival of peace as pioneered by their Rector, Fr. Lari Abaco. A total of 13 Liturgical Dance Groups came in their creatively made costumes representing the 9 colors of peace. Participants came from the areas of Rizal, Pasig, Manila, Quezon City, Taguig City, and Makati City and joined the festival by means of a “dance competition” in interpreting the officially arranged instrumental version of “Birhen ng EDSA” through their chosen dance medium of basic ballet, jazz, pop, folk and modern dance. Their dance interpretations reflected a unique form of prayer in commemorating the EDSA People Power Revolution; a bloodless revolution that took place in February 1986. Judges of the dance competition came from reputable sectors of society who ultimately awarded the top prize to the “In the Name of God Dancers” dance group after garnering the highest scores in the various criteria and officially declared as the winner. The Sayaw Kulay Festival culminated not
only the commemoration of October as the month of the Holy Rosary but became an expression of adoration and thanksgiving to Mary, Queen of Peace, Our Lady of EDSA whose unfaltering intercession and loving protection over the Filipino people brought about the victorious peaceful EDSA People Power revolution which ended the dark era of Martial Law. The Sayaw Kulay Festival: A Dance Festival of Peace, is being aimed to become a tradition in recalling the 1986 EDSA Revolution as God’s way of reminding us the gifts of Faith, Hope and Love, where our journey to democracy and peace be constantly relived, that consequently gave birth to EDSA Shrine.
Page 4
T H E E D S A SH R I N E G A Z E T T E | V O L U M E I , I S S U E 1 | A P R I L 2 0 1 7
THE SHRINE CHRONICLES
EDSA SHRINE’S MARIAN EXHIBIT “As an outsider looking into our Blessed Virgin Mary’s heart, I also felt her immense joy, agonizing pain and jubilant triumph for humanity’s deliverance, and the walk through the Marian Exhibit is a special spiritual encounter worth to remember “ The EDSA Shrine opened last 9 October 2016 a special Marian exhibit at their Serviam Hall. The more than one month-long exhibit displayed not only the images and statues of the Blessed Virgin Mary according to the various titles given to her, but also showcased the major scriptural events where the Blessed Virgin Mary’s role as the mother of our Savior, Jesus Christ, was highlighted. The different images of Our Blessed Virgin Mary came from the church and from the private collection of the EDSA Shrine community and our Rector Fr. Lari Abaco, a Marian devotee.
Picture 1
The various statue represented the significant aspect of Our Lady’s life from the small figure of a baby Mama Mary called Maria Bambinella (Picture 1) towards her life as we Catholic know that is narrated in the Mysteries of the Rosary. There was a painting that showed the Annunciation wherein Angel Gabriel told the Virgin Mary that she was the one chosen to be the Mother of the Son of God, Jesus. The Angel Gabriel showed himself to the Virgin Mary saying “Hail, full of grace. The Lord is with you. (Picture 2) A portion of the exhibit showed the Birth of Jesus, also popularly known as the Nativity. At this time, the land where Mama Mary and St. Joseph lived was part of the Roman Empire where the Emperor required a Census of all the people in the empire by registering in their own town where they originally belong. Mama Mary and St. Joseph went to Bethlehem the town of David, because St. Joseph belonged to the house and line of David. Finding difficulty for a place to stay because every house was filled, Mama Mary and St, Joseph stayed in a barn until Mama Mary gave birth to the child Jesus where he was placed on a manger, Panunuluyan (Picture 3),
Picture 2
Picture 3
According to the gospel, Mary and Joseph took the Infant Jesus to the Temple in Jerusalem forty days after his birth to complete Mary's ritual purification after childbirth, and to perform the redemption of the firstborn son, in obedience to the Torah. Coming from a poor family Mama Mary and St. Joseph cannot offer a lamb but offered a turtledove instead (Picture 4). Also included in the exhibit was the various images and representation of Our Lady, namely, the Immaculate Picture 4
Page 5
T H E E D S A SH R I N E G A Z E T T E | V O L U M E I , I S S U E 1 | A P R I L 2 0 1 7
Heart of Mary, Our Lady of Victories, (Picture 5), Birhen ng Baranggay, Our Lady of Penafrancia, Ina Poon Bato and Our Lady of Intercession (Picture 6). It also showed an Image of Our Lady of Czestochowa (Picture 7). There was also a banner that showed the different Titles given to The Blessed Virgin Mary (Picture 8).
Picture 5
The statue of Our Lady of Peace placed at the Center of the Hall with her big flowing white veil and a small pew nearby, attracted majority of the visitors to pray devoutly to her. Many of the visitors prayed kneeling while under her big veil. (Picture 9). Some visitors appeared deeply touched and comforted after praying to Our Lady of Peace, and were also encouraged to write their prayer intentions and deposit these in the petition box, where the intentions were prayed over by the resident priests of EDSA Shrine. Rosaries were also freely given out to all those patrons who dropped by the Exhibit to encourage Marian devotion, in conjunction with the month of the Holy Rosary (Picture 10).
Picture 6
Picture 7
The Marian exhibit showed various episodes in the life, ministry, death and resurrection of Jesus from the perspective of a mother’s heart – of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It aimed to recall certain principal events in the history of our salvation as reflected upon in the Blessed Virgin Mary’s journey with Jesus Christ, specifically in the incarnation (Joyful Mysteries), to Jesus’ public life of miracles and teachings (Luminous Mysteries), to the passion that culminates the revelation of God’s love (Sorrowful Mysteries) and the joy out of Jesus’ triumphs in the hope of the resurrection (Glorious Mystery). The Marian Exhibit struck a chord with some patrons who were moved by the special effort done to clearly illustrate the life of Christ and the Blessed Virgin Mary as they felt that through the Marian Exhibit, they were transported back to each decade of the mystery of the Holy Rosary, depicted in each image. It gave a chance to vividly see and reflect upon the absolute act of selflessness made by Jesus Christ, and empathize with the Blessed Virgin Mary’s various sentiments over Jesus Christ’s love and sacrifice to save mankind. As an outsider looking into our Blessed Virgin Mary’s heart, I felt also her immense joy, agonizing pain and jubilant triumph for humanity’s deliverance, and the walk through the Marian Exhibit is a special spiritual encounter worth to remember.”
Picture 8
Picture 9
Picture 10
T H E E D S A SH R I N E G A Z E T T E | V O L U M E I , I S S U E 1 | A P R I L 2 0 1 7
Page 6
THE SHRINE CHRONICLES
ORDINATION OF REV. FR. ARNEL CALATA & REV. FR. JONATHAN MOJICA At the Manila Cathedral on 10 December 2016, 9:00 AM, the EDSA Shrine Community witnessed and celebrated the ordination of Rev. Fr. Arnel Ayaquil Calata, Jr. (former resident deacon of the EDSA Shrine), and Rev. Fr. Jonathan Noel M. Mojica (former alter server of the EDSA Shrine). Completing the list of those who were ordained to the Sacred Order of Presbyters were Rev. Fr. Mark Anthony Benaya Balderama, and Rev. Fr. Daniel Voltaire Banting Hui. His Eminence Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle, Archbishop of Manila, presided over the celebration of the sacrament of Holy Orders. Immediately after the mass, the new priests graced their respective families, friends, and guests with a simple yet bountiful feast. Having been ordained, the new priests celebrated their respective thanksgiving masses at various churches that served a significant meaning to their life. At the EDSA Shrine, Fr. Jonathan celebrated a 5:30 PM thanksgiving mass on 10 December 2016, while Fr. Arnel celebrated a
thanksgiving mass on 12 December 2016. Fr. Arnel Calata is given the mission to serve the Shrine of Mary, Queen of Peace (EDSA Shrine) as its Vice-Rector.
EDSA SHRINE’S SUPPORT TO TNK’S MASS BAPTISM “Through Baptism, Parents bring their child to the Catholic Faith and allow the child to grow and live with Christ.” The EDSA Shrine provided human resource support to TNK Foundation’s Mass Baptism of 400 children at the Manila Cathedral last 14 January 2017. Fr. Matthieu Dauchez, resident priest of EDSA Shrine, is the Executive Director of Tulay ng Kabataan Foundation, a 19 year old non-governmental organization with a mission to serve the poorest children in Metro Manila. TNK has been saving abused and neglected children from the streets, slum areas and dumpsites of Metro Manila and properly addresses the children’s needs through their 4 offered programs of support. Working with children in difficult circumstances and restoring these children back with love is the most challenging yet fulfilling advocacy. TNK regularly organizes the mass baptism for its beneficiaries from the slums of Tondo, Baseco and Navotas to correct the wrong impression that the Sacrament of Baptism cannot be received by a child due to the lack of money. In this manner TNK encourages parents to freely bring their child to the Catholic faith and allow the child to be purified from the original sin we are all born with. Baptism is a Christian initiation for a child, a sacrament that forever leaves an indelible mark on the child’s soul and enables the child to receive the Holy Spirit and become a member of the Church that will allow the child to embark upon, grow and live the journey of faith with Christ and the Church.
T H E E D S A SH R I N E G A Z E T T E | V O L U M E I , I S S U E 1 | A P R I L 2 0 1 7
Page 7
THE SHRINE CHRONICLES
EDSA SHRINE SUPPORTS EPHESUS LOVE DAY “The Ephesus Love Day - an opportune time to reach out and spread the love to the sick, elderly and retired priests.” The EDSA Shrine supported the Ephesus Ministry Love Day project for the sick, elderly and retired priests of the Kadiwa sa Pagkapari Foundation, Inc. held last 11 February 2017 at the Villa San Miguel, Mandaluyong City. The Kadiwa sa Pagkapari Foundation, Inc. (KPF Inc.) was initiated in 1991 by Rev. Msgr. Sabino A. Vengco Jr., President and Chairman of KPF Inc. as a community of the faithful, lay, religious and ordained to assist to the needs of the retired and elderly. This advocacy had grown through the Ephesus Ministry of volunteers from various parishes nationwide. The Ministry has various programs where volunteers may render service. A Eucharistic Celebration for the elderly priests was presided by Bishop Benjamin Almoneda, Bishop Emeritus of Daet. His message for everyone was to answer the call of our friends in need, and quoted how Jesus healed a deaf man by proclaiming the words ‘Ephphatha’, that is, “Be opened.” (Mark 7:34-35) Similarly, he reminded how Jesus died on the Cross for our salvation, without our asking, simply because God is merciful and deeply loves everyone. A special lunch was also prepared for the senior priests while serenaded by Pax Christi Choir from EDSA Shrine and the Villa San Miguel Choir. Donations from the various ministries of EDSA Shrine were pooled in together and gave out baskets of toiletries for 75 senior priests as beneficiaries. The Ephesus Love Day was also participated by other communities from Villa San Miguel, Greenbelt Chapel and Landmark. The Ephesus Love Day is celebrated every February, the month of love, - an opportune time to reach out and spread the love to the sick, elderly and retired priests. This is a way to respond to Pope Francis call to go to the peripheries and reach out to the least, the last and the lost.
Page 8
T H E E D S A SH R I N E G A Z E T T E | V O L U M E I , I S S U E 1 | A P R I L 2 0 1 7
THE SHRINE CHRONICLES
OUR LADY OF EDSA ON HER 28TH YEAR OF SOLEMNITY “The Shrine serves as the conscience of the Filipinos’ longing and love for peace” - Archbishop Soc “If liberty and equality, as is thought by some are chiefly to be found in democracy, they will be best attained when all persons alike share in the government to the utmost” - Aristotle The EDSA Shrine – Shrine of Mary, Queen of Peace, Our Lady of EDSA is a product of the peaceful and victorious 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution. A commemorative peace shrine conceived by Cardinal Sin after the bloodless upheaval of Marcos dictatorship giving way to the Philippines’ democracy. “The Shrine serves as the conscience of the Filipinos’ longing and love for peace — serving as the venue and forum for people to express their sentiments on social issues, with unfettered vigor and force, fighting with faith and heroism” -Archbishop Soc Villegas. This is a monument of gratuity made by the Filipino people to give honor to the Blessed Virgin Mary’s love, protection and guidance. The EDSA Shrine is a small church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Manila, and is also called the Archdiocesan Shrine of Mary, Queen of Peace or Mary, Queen of Peace Quasi-Parish, but seldom used. The corner prime lot and where the Church stands is a donation made by the Ortigas and
Gokongwei families. Architect Francisco Mañosa made the architectural and structural designs of the church, and was finally blessed and consecrated by Cardinal Sin in 1989. Our Lady of EDSA celebrated this year her 28th Solemnity beginning with Novena masses and a simple yet meaningful Eucharistic Celebration concelebrated by EDSA Shrine’s Fr. Lari, Fr. Arnel, Fr. George, Fr. Charlie and Fr. Habos. Marian devotees joined the procession of Our Lady of Peace, and the annual Barrio Fiesta last 24 February 2017. The Barrio Fiesta, is a celebration with the gathering of volunteers from the various ministries, sharing a simple feast of Filipino dishes while enjoying a dance presentation of the 9-colors of peace Liturgical Dancers interpretation of the officially arranged instrumental version of “Birhen ng EDSA”.
Page 9
T H E E D S A SH R I N E G A Z E T T E | V O L U M E I , I S S U E 1 | A P R I L 2 0 1 7
THE SHRINE CHRONICLES
EDSA SHRINE’S BLOCK SCREENING OF BEAUTY AND THE BEAST No one is poor in sharing and giving especially when the main intention is to help out. This was proven at the recently held fund raising activity of the Public Affairs Ministry of EDSA Shrine last 18 March 2017, at the 8PM film showing. Overall, the activity was a booming success with all tickets sold out, while moviegoers were enriched with valuable life learnings from watching a feelgood movie. The Public Affairs Ministry of the EDSA Shrine, in cooperation with Robinsons Movieworld, hosted a block screening of the movie Beauty and the Beast at Robinsons Galleria Cinema 6, which was attended by 350 moviegoers, more or less. A raffle preceded the actual showing of the film, and prizes consisted of a 32-inch flat screen TV, power bank, electric fan, and gift certificates from Robinsons and Starbucks. Snacks comprising of Clubhouse sandwiches specially prepared by the EDSA Shrine Staff, Kettle Korn popcorn, bottled water and Sunkist juice drinks were distributed at the entrance of the cinema. Proceeds of the sale were to fund the evangelization ministry and other public affairs activities of the Shrine. The film showing of the Beauty and the Beast was fascinatingly educational as it left inspiring life lessons to be pondered on by everyone like~ 1.The rose encased in a glass tells us that nothing in life is as perfect as it seems—where every rose has its own thorns to endure—no matter how difficult to accept; 2. Even though our happily ever after may not outright look like one, still, true beauty comes from within as a pure heart who chooses to be nice through his or her incredible acts of kindness can transform any beast to a beautiful being; 3. All of us are entitled to be happy and successful, thus we cannot settle for anything less than we deserve, criticisms cannot measure up our self-worth, thus our fears must not get in our way for new experiences and new learnings; 4. True love is the willingness to sacrifice oneself for another; and 5. Saying goodbye to a loved one is one of the hardest things to do in life. The Public Affairs Ministry is grateful to the benevolence and joint efforts of the volunteers, donors, and the people who attended and supported the activity.
T H E E D S A SH R I N E G A Z E T T E | V O L U M E I , I S S U E 1 | A P R I L 2 0 1 7
Page 10
THE SHRINE SERIES
EDSA SHRINE WEDS OFF 21 COUPLES The Sacrament of Marriage is an agreement of partnership between man and woman, elevated by Christ to mirror Christ’s love for the Church. The EDSA Shrine officiated a series of Mass Weddings, also known as the Kasalang Bayan for a total of 21 couples last 30 November 2016, 22 February 2017 and 29 March 2017. This outreach project was facilitated by the Family & Life Ministry, headed by Bro. Arman & Sis. Ester Beltran who are the Head Coordinators of the Ministry. The Family & Life Ministry assists to-be wed couples in the wedding planning and preparations like completion of required documents for the Sacrament. Arrangements include both physical and spiritual preparations. In this manner, to-be wed couples are encouraged to focus on the celebration of the Sacrament of Matrimony, and not be discouraged by their financial hardship in taking the marriage vows. Marriage is the "contract by which a baptized man and a baptized woman freely creates between themselves a partnership and commitment of their whole life, dedicated and ordered by its nature to the good of the spouses, their procreation and education of their children" (Marriage in the Catholic ChurchWikipedia), this agreement of partnership between man and woman is elevated by Christ to the dignity of a sacrament, designed to mirror Christ’s love for the Church, showing that Christ is present in our midst through the sacraments. The matrimonial union is blessed by Christ. Similarly, In the Old Testament, the marriage of the man and woman is a symbol of covenant relationship between God and His people. This permanent exclusive union between a man and a woman reflects the mutual commitment between God and His people. The Sacrament of Matrimony is not just for the benefit of the well-being of the couple but is meant for the good of the community as well. EDSA Shrine encourages interested couples who are financially constrained in taking their wedding vows to pursue the Sacrament of Matrimony through the Family & Life Ministry’s outreach program of Mass Wedding or Kasalang Bayan. The EDSA Shrine Community warmly congratulates and extends the best wishes to the 21 couples who had their union blessed through the Sacrament of Matrimony.
T H E E D S A SH R I N E G A Z E T T E | V O L U M E I , I S S U E 1 | A P R I L 2 0 1 7
Page 11
THE SHRINE SERIES “Marian Dove, Fly!” The EDSA Shrine – Shrine of Mary, Queen of Peace, Our Lady of EDSA, with the efforts of their Rector, Fr. Lari Abaco, and the support of their Vice Rector, Fr. Arnel Calata, Jr. launched its project: “Marian Dove, Fly!”- Lakbay Dalangin under the program EDSA Shrine: Oasis of Peace last November 2016. The “Marian Dove, Fly!” is a Pilgrimage intended to promote peace and simultaneously introduce and propagate the devotion to Mary, Queen of Peace, Our Lady of Edsa. The invitation is open for everyone to join and be part of the EDSA Shrine Pilgrims to witness the enthronement of Our Lady of EDSA and be reminded of our Blessed Virgin Mary’s close ties with the Church, Mary being the mother of Jesus Christ, and an exemplar in carrying out the works of the apostolate. “Enthronement” is a religious ceremony recognizing the Blessed Virgin Mary’s great place in God’s plan of salvation to mankind. The Blessed Virgin Mary is Queen in the truest essence of the word, as she rightly sits on Jesus Christ’s side over the Kingdom of God in Heaven and the Kingdom of the hearts of men.
“Marian Dove, Fly!” - Soared High at Dagupan
The first flight of the Marian Dove was held last 4-6 November 2016, Fr. Lari, together with Fr. Arnel, their 9-colors of Peace Liturgical Dancers and a group of around 120 EDSA Shrine Pilgrims went to 3 churches under the Archdiocese of LingayenDagupan. The churches visited were as follows: The Holy Cross Parish in Laoac, San Fabian Church in San Fabian and St. John the Evangelist Cathedral in Dagupan. The EDSA Shrine pilgrims witnessed the enthronement of Our Lady of EDSA at all 3 Churches and also attended the holy Mass presided by Bishop Socrates Villegas at the St. John the Evangelist Cathedral. Archbishop Soc, in his homily challenged everyone to be a peacemaker by having a thankful and a happy heart, to quote: “People who cannot be trusted cannot be peacemakers, in the same way that people who are trustworthy, no matter how little work you do, will always continue to please God in great marvelous ways.”
T H E E D S A SH R I N E G A Z E T T E | V O L U M E I , I S S U E 1 | A P R I L 2 0 1 7
Page 12
THE SHRINE SERIES “Marian Dove, Fly!” – Soared High at Batangas
“Marian Dove, Fly!” – Soared High at San Carlos Seminary
The Marian Dove’s third flight was at the San Carlos Seminary in Makati City last 18 March 2017. Fr. Lari, Fr. Arnel and Fr. George, together with the 9colors of Peace Liturgical Dancers and a group of EDSA Shrine Pilgrims presented the image of Our Lady of Peace, and at the same time also introduced to the San Carlos Priest Formators and the Seminarians the Sayaw Kulay. On her second flight, the Marian Dove went to St. Francis of Paola Parish in Mabini Batangas and Ciudad de la Luz in Anilao Batangas last 26 November 2016. Fr. Lari, together with the 9-colors of Peace Liturgical Dancers and a group of EDSA Shrine Pilgrims were warmly received by the Mabini and Anilao townsfolk through their welcome dance of Subli. The “Subli”, derived from the Tagalog word Subsob (head bent down or fall on the face), is a religious folk dance that originated from the Tagalog ethno-linguistic group in the Philippines more popular in the southwestern part provinces of Luzon. The dance prayer is a Catholic devotional tradition in honoring the Holy Cross. The dance is performed in pairs where the straw hats of the manunubli (male and female dancers) are waved about and tilted in a salute of the cross. Holy Masses were offered in honor of Our Lady of EDSA’s enthronement. The mass in St. Francis of Paola Parish were concelebrated by Fr. Gammy Balita with Fr. Lari, in which the focus of the meaningful homily evolved around peace being elusive. Wherein the people had worked hard to attain peace, but the efforts seem to have been futile as the society is now filled with chaos and violence, visible in the fighting, killing and murders;,and invisible, yet felt through discrimination, oppression, greed, and poverty. What we had previously was only a semblance of peace, probably at present is unattainable, but is desperately being yearned for, and with the Marian Dove a seed of hope is planted to awaken the people once again to work hard for peace.
The EDSA Shrine Pilgrims gave a short procession of the Our Lady of Peace inside the San Carlos compound, thereafter the enthronement and was immediately followed by the Vespers, or evening prayers of the Priest Formators and Seminarians where everyone joined to recognize the importance of daily prayer from morning prayer, also known as lauds and the evening prayer, vespers.
T H E E D S A SH R I N E G A Z E T T E | V O L U M E I , I S S U E 1 | A P R I L 2 0 1 7
Page 13
THE SHRINE KIDS CORNER Did You Know ... The Season of Lent starts on Ash Wednesday, a 40-days (excluding the 6
Disclaimer: This Catechism is an Excerpt from the article “The Lenten Season” written by Ms. Yolly Abad.
Sundays) preparation towards Easter. It is 40 because the number forty symbolizes the different salvific events in the Bible.
The full article may be viewed at the official Facebook and website of The EDSA Shrine – Shrine of Mary, Queen of Peace, Our Lady of EDSA
The Imposition of ashes on the forehead is a reminder: “For dust you are and to dust you shall return.” (Genesis 3:19). Our lives are short and we must live this to the fullest with humility and repentance.. The word “Lent” comes from the Anglo-Saxon word “lencten”, which means “spring”. Since the word Lent means spring, or springtime, it likewise symbolizes change – letting go of our sinful ways and moving towards self-
Mother Church calls us to important spiritual disciplines:
three
Prayer plugs us to our Creator, the author of salvation and the fountain of grace Fasting is abstaining or totally letting go of our negative passions Almsgiving is "giving to God" and demands sacrificial giving — not just giving something, but giving up something, giving till it hurts
The two elements characterizing Lent: 1.
The recalling of baptism or the preparation for it
2.
Penance
T H E E D S A SH R I N E G A Z E T T E | V O L U M E I , I S S U E 1 | A P R I L 2 0 1 7
Page 14
THE SHRINE KIDS CORNER Color Me Well...
Disclaimer: This Artwork by Tamara Chua is taken from Joie de Vivre A Journey in Colors Coloring Book compiled by ICAn artists and published by the Immaculate Conception Academy.
T H E E D S A SH R I N E G A Z E T T E | V O L U M E I , I S S U E 1 | A P R I L 2 0 1 7
Page 15
THE SHRINE PRIESTS CORNER
WE ARE WITHIN THE POWER OF RESSURECTION B Y : F R . G E O R G E K U T T Y K O C H U C H A K K A LA C K A L
JESUS is the sacrificial Lamb of God. He died on the cross, shed His blood, and rose again from the dead so that we can live with confidence that all of our sins in the past, present and future have been washed away completely, once and for all.
In this Easter Season, God, the source of life, reminds everyone about the power that we are embodied with; the power of the resurrection. Our ancestors have fallen into sins of pride and disobedience, which banished them in paradise, thus made us inherit such sins and condemnation. But God, out of His unconditional love for mankind send forth His only Begotten Son, Jesus Christ, our Savior to redeem and save us from eternal damnation. (John 3:16) He died on the cross and gave assurance to the whole world through the good thief, Dismas (also spelled Dysmas or Dimas) on His right side telling him: “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.” (Luke 23:43).” JESUS is the sacrificial Lamb of God. He died on the cross, shed His blood, and rose again from the dead so that we can live with confidence that all of our sins in the past, present and future have been washed away completely, once and for all. We have an everlasting redemption and salvation by the potent power of His Blood. The price has been fully paid with no condition or reservation. You don’t have to live in guilt, resentment and condemnation. Because of His blood, which was shed for many, we have an everlasting release from our sins. Receive that forgiveness. Keep that power of the Blood over your life, over your family, over your finances. There are times in life when we feel like we’re going in circles. We are confident that we are doing the right thing, avoiding evil, but not making any progress. It’s easy to lose our passion and get discouraged, but one test we all have to pass through and overcome is staying faithful and patient even when nothing new is happening, because our Lord of the Resurrection is ever faithful and is with us always no matter what. True to His words before He ascended into Heaven, "I will be with you always, to the very end of the age." (Mt. 28:20) Know that we are within the power of the resurrection, no worries or difficulties or circumstances , and no person can put or trample us down. As St. Paul exhorted, "Do I live? It is no longer I who lives, Christ lives in me." (Gal. 2:20)
T H E E D S A SH R I N E G A Z E T T E | V O L U M E I , I S S U E 1 | A P R I L 2 0 1 7
Page 16
THE SHRINE PRIESTS CORNER Disclaimer: These quotes were directly cited from the priest’s homily.
QUOTABLE QUOTES You cannot win over evil if you fight the evil way. -Fr. Lari (@ 6:00pm mass, 24 Feb 2017)
Love the other with their shortcomings and limitations similarly as Jesus did on the cross. Love heals. Love sees possibilities. Love transforms. Love without boundaries. -Fr. George (@ 7:00pm mass, 20 Feb 2017 Being Created in the image and likeness of God reminds us that we are originally born good. -Fr. Arnel (@ 7:00pm mass, 15 Feb 2017
PRAYERS FOR KEEPS
Disclaimer: This prayer was attributed to Pope Clement XI taken from the Handbook of Prayers by Charles Belmonte-James Socias.
THE UNIVERSAL PRAYER Lord, I believe in you: increase my faith. I trust in you: strengthen my trust. I love you: let me love you more and more. I am sorry for my sins; deepen my sorrow. I worship you as my first beginning, I long for you as my last end, I praise you as my constant prayer, and call on you as my loving protector. Guide me by your wisdom, correct me with your justice, comfort me with your mercy, protect me with your power. I offer you, Lord, my thoughts: to be fixed on you; my words: to have you for their theme; my actions to reflect my love for you; my sufferings: to be endured for your greater glory. I want to do what you ask of me: in the way you ask, because you ask it. Lord, enlighten my understanding, strengthen my will, purify my heart, and make me holy. Help me to repent of my past sins and to resist temptation in the future. Help me to rise above my human weakness and to grow stronger as a Christian. Let me love you, my Lord and my God, and see myself as I really am: a pilgrim in this world, a Christian called to respect and love all whose lives I touch, those in
authority over me or those , under my authority, my friends and enemies. Help me to conquer anger with gentleness, greed by generosity, apathy by fervor. Help me to forget myself and reach out toward others. Make me prudent in planning, courageous in taking risks. Make me patient in suffering, unassuming in prosperity. Keep me, Lord, attentive at prayer, temperate in food and drink, diligent in my work, firm in my good intentions. Let my conscience be clear, my conduct without fault, my speech blameless, my life wellordered. Put me on guard against my human weaknesses. Let me cherish your love for me, keep your law, and come at last to your salvation.Teach me to realize that this world is passing, that my true future is the happiness of heaven, that life on earth is short, and the life to come eternal. Help me to prepare for death with a proper fear of judgment, but a greater trust in your goodness. Lead me safely through death to the endless joy of heaven. Grant this through Christ our Lord. Amen
Page 17
T H E E D S A SH R I N E G A Z E T T E | V O L U M E I , I S S U E 1 | A P R I L 2 0 1 7
THE SHRINE GALLERY
Ordina on Rev. Fr. Arnel A. Calata Jr. & Rev. Fr. Jonathan Noel M. Mojica
T H E E D S A SH R I N E G A Z E T T E | V O L U M E I , I S S U E 1 | A P R I L 2 0 1 7
Page 18
THE SHRINE GALLERY
28th Solemnity of Our Lady of EDSA Shrine
Ephesus Love Day
Family & Life Ministry Mass Wedding
Page 19
T H E E D S A SH R I N E G A Z E T T E | V O L U M E I , I S S U E 1 | A P R I L 2 0 1 7
THE SHRINE GALLERY
Fr. Lari’s 33rd Presbyteral Anniversary
T H E E D S A SH R I N E G A Z E T T E | V O L U M E I , I S S U E 1 | A P R I L 2 0 1 7
Page 20
THE RECTOR’S DESK AN EASTER MESSAGE B Y : F R . LA R I A B A C O
We all know and are aware of the feelings death leaves us. It’s mixed feelings – anxiety, guilt, regret… helplessness, frustration, restlessness… This is the emotional, psychological and even physical state of the disciples after those disturbing things that had happened during the week which culminated in the death of Jesus. As we all know, one of them, Judas Escariot, betrayed him. In his great remorse, he hanged himself.
THE PUBLIC AFFAIRS MINISTRY
Peter denied him, not only once, but three times. The rest, except for John, deserted him.
Editor-in-Chief/Head Coordinator: Atty. Dan Joseph Cruz
Jesus knew, how devastated his disciples are by his death. And He came and stood in their midst with this greeting – “PEACE BE WITH YOU!”
Official Writers: Anna Melissa de Guzman Amy Alarilla Glenie Laggui
Oh, what a gracious God He is!!! Jesus came and stood in their midst not to point an accusing finger on anyone. He came to offer forgiveness... reconciliation... love.
Official Photographers: Jonathan Raz Edward Tiambeng Pauline Uy
Jesus’ greeting was meant to dispel fear and anxiety in their heart.
Graphic Artist: Lean Soriano
His greeting was redemptive!!! It was a loving invitation to come to the Living Spring of Life... to the Living Spring of Peace. Pope Francis puts it so beautifully when he said: “Everything in JESUS speaks of Mercy. Nothing in JESUS is devoid of Compassion.” Truly in JESUS our restless souls find PEACE.
Adviser: Rev. Fr. Arnel A. Calata Jr. DISCLAIMER: This EDSA Shrine Gazette— Our L:ady of EDSA Shrine Newsletter is a collaborative effort by volunteer individuals from the EDSA Shrine community.
Telephone No.: +63 2 631-5734 Facebook: http://facebook.com/EDSAShrineOfficial
Website: http://www.edsashrine.org
Shrine of Mary Queen of Peace, Our Lady of EDSA (EDSA Shrine) EDSA corner Ortigas Avenue, Quezon City
