A Muslim Leader Condems Church Bombing in Jolo

It is heart-warming to read a Filipino Muslim religious leader condemn the recent Church bombing in Jolo to the extent in saying the “culprits are serving Satan”.

The Ulama’s tone is reconciliatory, a welcome gesture in sending off this year. Personally, before an authentic reconciliation is attained, (a) the guilty must admit the guilt committed and (b) acknowledge the wrong done and its effects; (c) solemnly promises never to do it again and (d) offers a contrite “I’m sorry; please forgive me.”

The offended party, upon noting the sincerity and contrition of the offending party if both are indeed interested in peace and reconciliation there’s no other recourse than to accept the remorseful offending party’s olive branch offer. If one of the four elements mentioned is missing, everything is a farce if not foolishness and waste of time.

Muslims in this country can freely and safely worship in their Mosques and so in other parts of the world. I wonder why Catholic Churches in particular are bombed, their priests and bishops are murdered and those who believe in Christ live under the sword of Damocles especially in the Middle East! If all of us are descendants of Abraham, Jacob, Isaac and Ishmael and believers in the All-Compassionate and All-Loving God, why are Christians killed and threatened in practicing their faith when our Muslim brethren are left alone in peace while they worship Allah? Do brothers and sisters have to kill each other? Or love and embrace each other?

As a Catholic, I don’t believe in religious confrontation. No matter what faith others have, we are all in the process of maturing as far as our faiths are concerned and all of us are on a journey with a common destination. Religion must be a binding key for us to be ONE and at PEACE and not live as enemies.

I have a small and insignificant voice but no matter how small, insignificant and low:

“Enough is enough! A lot of innocent blood have been spilled. A lot of orphans and widows have been created. Let us learn to love and respect each other again. Please respect our freedom of religion and we respect yours. Please do not threaten or kill us and our priests and bishops for we do not threat and kill your religious leaders. Let us have one caravan and help each other along the way. We have one destination and dream --- that is to see and meet the All-Compassionate and All-Loving God.”

السلام عليكم

Peace be upon you! As-Salamu Alaykum! -30-

Persecuted Christians: You Are Not Forgotten!

In the countryside where the flame of unity and sharing refuse to die among relatives and friends, one is sometimes scolded for being stingy for not sharing a delicious food to a less fortunate other.

There might be a case like that last Christmas during the noche buena (traditional meal after the Midnight Mass) when the spirit of Christ’s nativity was at its peak. There is no better or happier news that must be shared in learning that the Most Powerful is born to defeat sin and give us hope. We must tell to believers and unbelievers alike that Jesus of Nazareth is here to save, love and protect us.

Sadly, in different parts of the world, in West Java, Indonesia; Nigeria, Iraq, right here in our country in Jolo, our Catholic brethren suffered violence and persecution.*

Here in Ilocos, we are fortunate to have our centuries-old churches as the venue of liturgical celebration this Christmas while in West Java, it is in a parking lot and under the tree!

Well, the essence of the Mass does not change whether it is said inside a Basilica or National Shrine or under the tree. If I were in West Java participating in that Mass, I would find the Mass even more meaningful. Despite being threatened because of my faith and in freely exercising it, I risk my life to receive my Maker in the Eucharist. How many times police and firefighters are called heroes after risking their lives for a cause? Are believers risking their lives because of their faith less worthy to be called heroes?

I don’t think so.

True, we have freedom of religion and the free exercise thereof in this country but I doubt if that concept rings true in some parts of Mindanao. And if the purpose of all religions is to transform man into a “living saint” so to speak, why are Catholics and other Christians threatened if not silenced? I don’t think that there is any religion that embraces violence as one of its norms.

There’s nothing new. From the time the first Christians were persecuted, all who gave up their lives in the name of faith are all recognized and since then, Christians always outlived their persecutors. Thus, there is no reason to believe that persecutors this time will outlive Christians. “The spilled blood of the martyrs,” preachers teach “are the seeds of faith”.

For all Christians enjoying full freedom of religion and its free exercise, wherever you are, take a time remembering our unfortunate brothers and sisters in faith who are under threat or in fear in giving due to the Almighty. Let us not forget them and in case they go to the gallows they  too remember us before the Lord.

For the persecuted Christians, in case you read this, remain steadfast in your faith and be not afraid. There is a much better place than where you are at the moment --- a place where there is no more  persecution or violence but perpetual bliss.

In the midst of our merriment and festivities in the free world, you, persecuted Christian brethren are not forgotten! -30-

_________________
* Please visit http://catholicdefender2000.blogspot.com/search/label/Persecuted%20Church for further reading.

Innocents’ Day

There is a prankish Filipino practice that on Innocents’ Day, one has to “fool” a friend or co-worker by telling a too good to be true fabricated story with serious demeanor or with even a prop. It is the equivalent of the April Fools’ Day of the West.

The real day of the innocents however, was gory and evil when innocents were massacred to eliminate any threat of Herod’s throne.

Herod is still alive and kicking in the Philippines today ordering the massacre of innocents in the form of social injustice, inequality, bad governance and leaders; the powerless who only deserve to be dehumanized in all of its forms instead of being respected as a person with human dignity.

And in parallel with the Biblical account, how many politicians were murdered when they pose as a threat to one’s power? Ninoy Aquino and Andres Bonifacio were among the famous but right in our cities and towns, how many were silenced permanently before their voice of reform is heard?

And if and when the Reproductive Bill becomes a law, how many innocent human beings will be denied to exist and live among us and share the blessings of this country and our love? Who are we to say that a human being has no right to exist through artificial contraception by enacting a law that makes condom available like galungong (a poor’s fish).

We must not forget that the innocents who suffer brutality, violence, persecution, oppression and dehumanization who are in jail, hospital or cemetery will face their oppressors and persecutors. In a different world, time and space, the real guilty will answer “What have you done with your brother [Abel]?”

The innocents, will echo the last words of the Judge on the cross, “Forgive them for they did not know what to do.”

Instead of the pranks which could turn a face red, remember the “red” the innocents shed not only in Herod’s time but right in our time.-30-

Philippine Christmas: Four Months!

Christmas in the Philippines officially ends on Epiphany Sunday and to our friends around the world, our Christmas started on the first day of September.

Four months plus of . . . ?

My country, with great pride, was the first and only Catholic nation in Asia before East Timor became the second. But what for is the pride when the number of “nominal” Catholics are increasing with a tremendous speed? In our lifetime some (it would be unfair to use “most”) of us only go to Church three times: when “hatched”, “matched” and “dispatched”.

For four months of Christmas, what do Filipinos do?

Do a religious journey of spiritual transformation by following the teachings of the Gospels to say in general term?

I don’t think so with deep regrets and with a deep sense of sorrow.

This is a third world country and the gap between the rich and the poor is a mile apart.

That does not deter every home to think what gifts to wrap, what parties to attend, what dress to buy, what food to prepare and where to go as December 25 draws closer.

Thousands go to the mall, groceries and parks while hundreds go to the Church and eagerly wait for the one whom they badly need. For four months to lavishly say; if Filipinos are truly Christ centered, the Philippines, only for that span of time, has the potential to be transformed into the famed Shangri-La.

The transformation it undergoes is not what a Catholic country needs. The Philippines is transformed into a Western country where Christmas equals consumerism. (It is funny if not stupid that in the resort city of Baguio, a good crowd went out to watch man-made snow.) What happens in the US, Canada, London, Paris or Berlin happens in this country suffering from grinding poverty.

Since the start of the Misa de Gallo, I know one family friend who braved the dawn in attending the nine-day novena and again attended the Midnight Mass. He is not rich. He is an ordinary Filipino working in the farm together with his wife. Their children help house chores. They don’t wear jewelries, flashy clothes and shoes. They live a simple and poor life like the lucky shepherds who heard the angels sing 2000 years ago. They did not prepare any material thing for Christmas but oh my, how spiritually rich they are! When asked how their Christmas was, the answer is "Napanglawkami laeng.  Saanmi kabaelan ti agsagana.  Di bale, ni Apo ti saganaanmi." (We are poor and cannot afford to spend; yet, we prepare for the Lord.)

On Christmas, I went to their house and said “Christ is not only present in this house but in each of your hearts.”

In fairness to my fellow Filipinos, despite the material preparations and fortune they spent, Churches were still crowded. How I wish that Churches are not only full on Christmas and Lent. What Christ sees are the invisible content of our heart and soul.

As a new year knocks, may the Philippines revisit its old religiosity and burning piety and thereof practice again an authentic and close relationship with the Savior not only on four months of Philippine Christmas but always. -30-

As Christmas Strikes, It is Very Sad!

Christmas soon strikes in a couple of hours.

It is very sad!

After getting in touch with close relatives in some parts of the country wishing them a meaningful birth of the Messiah, they worry about the food and other useless issues that have nothing to do with the essence of Christmas.

Many times in the years past and as recent as in a couple of days, I shared them my immutable position that material things have no value in celebrating the birth of the Savior.

I am saddened to hear their foolish reasons that despite the imbued spirituality the relatives and I deeply share, the commercialized version of Christmas has now more weight in them.

I am not surprised!

Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve whom Jesus rubbed elbows with instantly lost his faith. Peter, walking on the sea started to sink when storm inflated the waves and feared.

On the other side of the coin, it is not also surprising that a sinner can also be instantly converted.

Saul, after felled with a lighting bolt and hearing the voice of the unseen became a new person. Mary Magdalene, once a prostitute saw the light of salvation. One of the thieves at the last moment of his life repented and was instantly promised with a Paradise. The centurion’s heart watching Jesus in his last hours was melted from a conceited heart to a repenting heart.

But that is what freedom of religion is all about that I respect.  One is free to worship in accordance with hi/her conscience. And it does not matter whether one is Catholic, Christian, Buddhist, Jew or Muslim.

As the clock strikes midnight the Son of God is born and becomes like us but without sin. He can be cuddled and loved and not feared as the master of the universe and our lives. May He forgive our indifference in putting less emphasis on the meaning of his incarnation that He comes to carry our sins embedded on his cross so that we may live.

Parties, fantastic and exotic foods, new attires, eye-catching decors, deafening noise of bamboo canons and weapons of death, firecrackers and what most have in our midst at the threshold of Christmas are the stuff Christ does not need.

I am with the street children or families living under the bridges missing a meal in tattered clothing welcoming Jesus, a poor like them. He is not only born in Nazareth but also in an empty but spiritually rich heart which to my mind, now very few. I am with the oppressed, the dehumanized, the persecuted, the weak, underprivileged and hopeless not only here in the Philippines but from anywhere whether they are Christians or not.

Christ sees our nothingness as we welcome Him.

And what is the end of the story?

Those are the kind of people whom Jesus loved and identified with while on earth.

Despite the sadness I have for the gradual shifting of piety to materialism if not atheism, Christ comes to forgive and as He said on the cross “Father forgive them for they don’t know what they are doing.”

May He abundantly do. -30-

A Christmas Wish

The long wait is about to be over. In 48 hours, the Prince of Peace will be with us in this divided and suffering world. At this point, I am ready to bring along my list in paying Him a visit to the manger.

Belen (Nativity Scene) for us Filipinos is something we can connect to. Everyday, what happened in the Manger 2,000 years ago still happens in our world today.

From the Scriptures we read that there was persecution when all first-born were mandated to be murdered and thus, the couple escaped to Egypt. There was apathy. Doors were not opened for the pregnant Mary and Joseph and thus when Mary was due, they sought shelter to a place where animals lived.

Persecution and apathy in all of their evil forms are still around us which may not be  exactly the same as those in Biblical times but right here in the Philippines, one does not need a college degree to conclude that the poor, the voiceless, the weak and the underprivileged are persecuted by the rich, the powerful and privileged. Where is social justice for majority of Filipinos? I always say that life does not end here and when the day comes when the oppressor and the oppressed are together before an incorruptible judge when no vestige of power and wealth are taken into consideration, those who laugh now will cry and those who sob will find comfort and peace.

This Christmas . . . . (not in order)

1. May there be a lasting peace in Mindanao where Filipinos of all faith can freely move and exercise religion freely.

2. May the New People’s Army and the Philippine government come to a peaceful term and work together for the common grounds they both support.

3. Let all the killings stop. A lot of lives, innocent included, have been lost and let us remember that we are brothers and sisters under one nation.

4. Hopefully, graft and corruption die a natural death not later but sooner.

5. May our government officials put forth the needs and welfare of their constituents to the fore instead of their personal interests.

6. May there be peace in the Middle East.

7. May rich countries find comfort in helping the less fortunate.

8. May freedom of religion be respected and exercised especially in the Middle East.

9. May international disputes be resolved peacefully and not through the use of force.

10. End abortion, euthanasia and stem cell research.

11. May there be no same sex marriage, abortion and divorce in our country.

12. May the true spirit of Christmas be restored instead of being commercialized.

13. May human dignity be always respected from conception to natural death.

14.  May our country move forward to economic prosperity and peace.

15. May good governance be effected while citizens do their share in nation-building.

16. May God continue to shine His face upon us and be merciful to us all.

You can add your wishes. Have a blessed Christmas. For the oppressed and victims of social injustices, the Savior is about to come. Be ready with what you want to tell Him this 25th. He listens.

May peace be in our hearts and let us recognize the face of Christ in our midst. -30-

Let There Be Peace in Our Hearts --- COR INVICTUS

Merry Christmas to all visiting this blog.  I discovered this medium in May 2009 and it is a surprise that I am still posting 19 months later.  Blogging is not my hobby or that I am much delved in it.  I am just freely expressing my opinions on issues  and anyone can agree or disagree with me for that is the essence of the freedom of expression.

I thank my readers and friends from around the world for finding time in paying a visit to this blog and I appreciate their positive comments and dissenting opinions as well.   I did not post most of them since  discretion is mine.  While most of them are civil,  some suggested subjects for me to write about.  To those who used foul and demeaning language, how I wish that they should have refrained ad hominem for the issue at stake are my articles and not my person. Well, resorting to that syllogism and impoliteness is normal when nothing that makes sense can be said.  

. . . That is also freedom of expression, isn't it?

In the spirit of Christmas, may peace be in our hearts, in our midst, in our country and in our world.

Merry Christmas!

_______________
Photo Credit:
http://colortopaper.blogspot.com/2009/12/parol-philippine-christmas-lantern_11.html

Hubert Webb: Guilty or Innocent?

Since I am not a lawyer, I am not competent to answer that based on law and I have no intention to answer that. The Jesuit and bar topnotch Joaquin Bernas' short but potent analysis on Mr. Webb's liberty speaks a lot.

What is cloudy as far as I am concerned is why in the first place, Mr. Webb was convicted if he is indeed innocent. I am sure that the then presiding judge based his decision on evidence. 

Found guilty by the lower court, it means that the evidence against him was strong. If indeed innocent, why it took 15 years before he is finally found innocent?

While the High Tribunal has the last say on legal issues, without pun intended, the country cannot forget the reversal of the lower court decision.  The Vizconde massacre was so brutal if not Satanic. If and only if the Ampatuans are found guilty, hopefully they will not be found innocent by the Supreme Court 15 years later.  Or if found innocent by the lower court, the Supreme Court will send the Ampatuans to jail and be locked up.

My question is: “Is our justice system credible or incredible?”

Your answer is as good as mine. -30-

Is Justice Massacred in "Vizconde Massacre"?

The liberty of Hubert Webb and five others formerly locked up in jail is the hottest topic today from radio, TV,  the dailies, social networking sites and in the streets.

I don't have much to say about the case since I have not yet read an in-depth presentation of the story.  After a  brief visit at Inquirer's internet edition, it looks like there are some who lose their faith in our justice system.

I cannot blame them.  I am as eager as them in waiting for the day to read a big politician convicted  and jailed because of graft and corruption or jueteng. If that day comes if it ever will in my life time, the warden should throw the cell's key in Pasig River.

If my recollection is correct, the Vizcondes were brutally murdered by supposedly drug addicts from rich and influential families.  They were convicted but Chief Justice Corona's Supreme Court says that they are innocent and now they are back in the streets.

The law of man has flaws that often times, the guilty are found innocent by courts and the innocent are mercilessly convicted.

Nothing is new with this but at the end of age,  a perfect and incorruptible Judge will hand down his decision for all and no one can reverse that.

In the meantime, the guilty who are set free can enjoy their "temporary" freedom but the innocent languishing in jail will have the last laugh.

The latest move of the Supreme Court should not dampen our trust in the government.  We pray instead that the government is interested in justice and the rule of law and not in the rule of man.

To the just released with new freedom, may you find peace, comfort and good conscience and to Mr. Lauro Vizconde, be sure that justice will be served. It might not be here but upstairs. Be also at peace and never lose hope.  -30-

Dawn Mass or Misa de Gallo

Once again, the Christian world starts holding the traditional novena to the Blessed Mother this 16th for the greatest feast  of the year --- the Nativity of Christ, the redeemer.

Among the countries colonized by Spain,  I believe  that the Philippines has a unique nine-day  dawn Mass or Misa de Gallo devotion  rich in history that started 70 years after the Christianization of this country.

The webpage of the Archdiocese of Manila fails to mention why the dawn Mass is called Misa de Gallo but the term was simply coined when the gallo (rooster in Spanish) starts it's daily ritual to crow at dawn.

Before global warming was still to be discovered, December dawns were very cold and leaving the house early without a jacket was unbearable.  Low temperature, however, does not cool down the unfailing spirit in waking up early from an enjoyable sleep and rushing to cavernous Spanish-built churches before their seating capacity is filled if not yet filled like a can of sardines.

It is a kind of nine day sacrifice braving the cold and when back home, a mother tends the needs of the kids while the father prepares for work.  Up to these days in some parts of the country' after the Mass in the church yard, traditional ethnic Filipino delicacies are available or back at home; native pastries, a native or rice coffee or a cocoa are ready for breakfast to warm up.

Where Filipinos are in diaspora, the traditional Misa de Gallo and same food recipes are exported and it warms the heart to see other faithful "different from us" participating and enjoying the unique Filipino spirit of Christmas.  In the United States where time is fast, the Mass, not by choice but out necessity, is in the evening instead of dawn.

Time has drastically changed from the Spanish times when devotees used torch or oil lamp to find their way to the church and when strict and deep piety was practiced.  Parents then were so stern and "cruel" in giving discipline to their children while the country was young under the rule of a world power.

Today, neon or laser lights are everywhere in a country that is slowly getting Westernized (to the abhorrence of  the nationalists) in almost everything.  Yet, when this festive part of the year comes, Filipinos trace their religious past by participating  in the Misa de Gallo which is a part of its history and culture.

As an ad says:

Let the spirit of Christmas ring.  Welcome Christ into your hearts!

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Photo Credit:
http://kwentongpinas.files.wordpress.com/2009/12/simbang-gabi2.gif

Viva! Our Lady of Guadalupe

 (Translated from the original Spanish)

Federal District

Mexico City

12 December 2010

Dear COR INVICTUS:

The early hours of this great day is cold but it did not dampen the spirit of the Mexican faithful to come  from their homes in the middle of the night to give a rousing welcome to a very special day, the feast of  our Virgencita Guadalupe.

Men and women of all age came in throng in my parish for the traditional Mananita. Babies were cozy in their strollers while other Moms and Dads prefer to cuddle their babies in their arms sometimes bottle-fed with a warm thermos milk while they venerate the Virgin with songs, dances and prayers.

Some women were spotted in their official Mexican dress while a number of men, young and old, dressed up like a tilma and bag-clad Juan Diego. There were also a number who came in Aztec costume with pinned Lady's image --- thankful for their conversion in faith.

All were upbeat and determined to spend some hours with our Lady.

Our best band came over and rocked the church with their best Marian and patriotic renditions sending the faithful to their feet to dance with with rhytmic clapping, hand-waving and parading in the aisle as they venerate the Virgen.

In our correspondence, you mentioned that in the Philippines, you address Mary with "Mama" and you consider her as someone who is just near somewhere. We have the same disposition that just like our human mother, we can go to her in times of trouble, hardship and whenever  we need maternal comfort, love and protection. We are blessed that the Mother of God chose to appear in our land centuries ago to the poor and simple Juan Diego.

As you know in the past, this country experienced religious persecution.  The clergy were not allowed to do their official roles and were not even allowed to wear their sotana.  I am sure you heard about the Mexican martyrs.  Take note that those who wanted to make this country atheist are long gone BUT our faith remains unchanged and strong and the Church thay they wanted to destroy is still standing , strong and vibrant.

Our preferred cry to her is "Viva Virgen de Guadalupe!" and be answered "Viva!". Wearing a T-shirt with our Virgin's image is a part of day to day life. Some are added with her words "Am I not here, who am your Mother? Are you not under my shadow and protection?" and other phrases respecting her like "Blessed are you Virgin of Guadalupe".  There is also a word of surrender written below the image saying "My life is in your hands".

Earlier in the evening,  it was touching to join children praying the rosary with their little and small voice but with gigantic expression of love and faith.  My eyes were not dry when these children, all wearing the modern tilma were instructed to go before the image of our Lady of Guadalupe and say their personal prayers.  They were told "She is your mother and tell her how much you love her and ask anything you want from her.  Look at her face.  That is her picture.  No human person painted it.  She gave it to us just like a loved giving her/his picture."

Back in the church in the early morning, in less than one hour at around 15 till one, the church was full and there were a number bringing flowers (some expensive-looking) leaving them in front of the much venerated icon.

There are a lot of Mexican food and festivities in our parish today and as always, when  this day comes, Mexicans and the rest of Americas give their best to our Lady of Guadalupe.  May she strengthen our faith and may she save and protect Mexico!

Note: When I walked home at around 3:00 AM from the church till close to our house, a Mexican food  aroma accompanied me home.  But who cooks at that early?  Why did the scent trail me for half a mile?)

_______________

Photo Credit:

http://www.sacred-destinations.com/mexico/mexico-city-basilica-guadalupe

Christmas Drowns Filipino Nationalism

Without being aware, one reason why we are getting dumber as a people is our too much arrogance in hating English language that reminds our colonial past, masters and struggles. Whether we like it or not, the language of Pres. Roosevelt and Truman continues to be a major language in the field of education, science and commerce and the possibility that Filipino is catching up is nil.

With a raised eyebrow, the tendency is to accuse a totally Tagalog illiterate Tawi-Tawi native afflicted with colonial mentality virus when shopping for bargains in Divisoria with halting English.

Fact:

Some nationalists are selective in using the “colonial mentality” concern which is heavily leveled on the language issue.

Where are these nationalists who want all Filipinos to be 100% Filipino this Christmas?

Hello! Come out in full force and let your voices be heard in saying that:

1. Santa Claus, his carriage pulled by reindeers

2. The use of “snow” as a part of Christmas spirit

3. English carols

4. Buying of gifts

5. Christmas shopping

6. Technologically advanced Christmas decorations (laser)

7. Craving of products with “Made in USA”

8. Snow “show” (What happened in Baguio?)*

9. Spectacular Fireworks

10. Sending Christmas card by mail, via internet or its social networks

. . . are stuff which are strictly non-Filipino and therefore patronizing or adopting these  imputes guilt of colonial mentality and therefore, they should be discouraged if not stopped right away.

Come all out and be counted.

Never in the past that I heard you complaining the lack of nationalism/patriotism on Christmastide. In fact, your tribe is only heard when the issue revolves around the English language. If your claim that you are nationalist or patriotic is not a lie or foolishness, remember that English is one of the official languages of the Philippines and you have to respect that.

Hypocrisy is another term for selective spirit of nationalism.  It is as simple as that. -30-

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Photo Credit:
http://www.trekearth.com/gallery/Asia/Philippines/Cagayan_Valley/Ifugao/Batad/photo1079258.htm

Immaculate Conception

We commemorate Mary, the mother of the Messiah, conceived without sin, a unique privilege exclusively gifted to her. The Church celebrates first this great feast before Christmas to remind us that without Mary (had she said “no” to the angel’s invitation), there is no Jesus and no salvation.

That’s the reason Catholics venerate Mary for giving us a Son to open the gates of eternal life.

In December 8, 1854, Pius IX, defined with dogma of the Immaculate Conception saying:

“We declare, pronounce and define that the doctrine which holds that the Blessed Virgin Mary, at the first instant of her conception, by a singular privilege and grace of the Omnipotent God, in virtue of the merits of Jesus Christ, the Savior of mankind, was preserved immaculate from all stain of original sin, has been revealed by God, and therefore should firmly and constantly be believed by all the faithful.”

Take note the words “We declare, pronounce and define that the doctrine . . .” Pius IX was talking from the Chair of Peter (Ex Cathedra) defining a doctrine. Such act is free from error or infallible per Catholic teaching.

We can only surmise that at that time, many skeptics (like some of us today) asked how possible that an ordinary Jewish girl was preserved immaculately from all stain of original sin? We cannot completely understand that but it does not mean that the dogma is false simply because we cannot understand it.

Four years later, Mary told Bernadette “I am the Immaculate Conception.” Mary affirmed that the dogma is correct four years later.

We Filipinos have a strong devotion to Mary. In fact, we know that she is always beside us helping and interceding for our needs and we feel her presence. Only we Filipinos fondly address her Mama Mary because of our helplessness in facing the rigors of life. “Mama” means that we can cry on her shoulder while she listens. She gives us comfort and love like our human parents do but she also scolds us through the teachings of the Church.

May Mary intercede for us who have recourse to her and those who do not have recourse to her. -30-

_______________

Photo Credit:

http://images.search.yahoo.com/images/view?back=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.search.yahoo.com%2Fsearch%2Fimages%3F_adv_prop%3Dimage%26va%3Dimmaculate%2Bconception%26fr%3Dyfp-t-313&w=482&h=640&imgurl=www.wikigallery.org%2Fpaintings%2F249501-250000%2F249523%2Fpainting1.jpg&rurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wikigallery.org%2Fwiki%2Fpainting_249523%2FAnton-Raphael-Mengs%2FImmaculate-Conception&size=40KB&name=Immaculate+Conce...&p=immaculate+conception&oid=5eb871b5cbdfbe925d9e27312a746b4c&fr2=&no=14&tt=37100&sigr=12p7l77n9&sigi=120o2p9pd&sigb=132nt958j&.crumb=d2efXwMYoq8

The Catholic Church: Still in Medieval Times?

The immutable stand of the Church on the use of artificial family planning is often the ground of dissenters and haters to say that the Catholic Church (mentality) is still medieval.

Not all buy that.

The Second Vatican Council in short was convened by John XXIII and closed by Paul VI half a century ago to bring closer the Church to the modern world. Vatican II did not alter, eliminate or proclaim new doctrines but generally set up guidelines the Church should follow in living with the present time. Some of these are the use of mass communication for evangelization, more involvement of the laity in the life of the Church, ecumenism and in promoting social justice to name a few.

The most noticeable change Vatican II has brought is the saying of the Mass from Latin to the vernacular. Vernacular is understood here as a common language of the faithful living in a particular place. The use of vernacular languages did not outlaw or prohibit the use of Latin Mass, because the ancient language characterizes the universality of the Mass which is the most important form of Catholic worship.

Is the Church said to be medieval because of its prohibitions we want to be taken off? Because we cannot take them? If the Church would say that it is all right to use condom and artificial family planning methods to prevent conception, do we still call the Church medieval?

There are things in the Church that not even the Pope has the power or right to change or delete. Benedict XVI or any future Pope cannot promulgate something saying that the dogma of the Immaculate Conception is false or alter the "ex cathedra" pronouncement of Pius IX on December 8, 1854. In the same way, the Church and the Pontiff cannot allow the use of artificial contraception because it is only God --- not man ---  who can decide when a new life is to be or not to be.

How sane to accuse the Church as medieval  if we cannot do something we want because her laws say "NO"? The Vatican has its own website, radio and TV stations --- modern technology to reach out. Paul VI, John Paul II and now Benedict XVI all post Vatican II pontiffs traveled around the world to reach believers and even nonbelievers while John XXIII and down did not visit a foreign country if my knowledge is correct.  The Vatican is Twitting, has a Facebook and even a YouTube account to reach the most remote part of the globe.  The ancient Papal chair where the Pontiff sits and be carried on shoulders is no longer in use.  John Paul II preferred to walk and so with Benedict XVI.  When travelling short road distances, the "popemobile" is used and it is a Mercedes Benz, one of the most advanced in the car business of the 21st century.

These are confusing, challenging and interesting times when we cannot keep still unless we can do anything we want without any prohibition.

Religious and even social anarchy is brutish and not human. -30-

When Christ Comes Again

These days, the observant surely takes notice of the wrong spicing our society. Take note of these:

1. The deafening hullabaloos anent the controversial RH Bill fertilized with Benedict XVI’s pregnant comment on condom.

2. The sad but accurate observation of retired Bishop Ted Bacani on the distortion of the meaning of Christmas because of its commercialization.

3. What we think or believe “in accordance with our conscience or knowledge is correct.”

4. That we should be practical now with our lives (and ready to sacrifice values to achieve a target).

5. Faith is slowly but surely metamorphosing into reason.

In one way or another, there’s something wrong with our personal perspectives as proven by our dispositions. Time and again, there are stories when doing good is laughed at or disparaged and applauded as good and even imitated when doing evil --- the metaphysical opposite of good.

Are these the result of modern times and modern way of thinking? Is our material inclination clouding what is nobler that should be pursued?

Religious pastors in the past decades have been suggesting that the end of time is near based from “their” Biblical and empirical interpretations. In fact there are those who pinpoint the exact date when the Son of Man comes for the second time. Thanks be to God, the world under the eagle’s wing is still around. Rapture, others say, is very soon but still they are doling away a lot of reading materials. If soon is indeed soon, how could a searching soul finish to read a lot of reading materials? And it’s funny to hear that there is an exact number of those to be saved.  As if God's power is limited

I do not agree in emphasizing the end of the world for that is a fact no one knows when to happen except the Father and therefore it should be a thing to live by and not be used as a "way of living". Instead, why not simply follow a simple command: “Repent and believe the Gospel.”? All of the ingredients for salvation is there but we are sometimes carefree and focus our attention and priorities to the market of finite things that has zero value after death.

“When the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?” (Luke 18:8)

Yes, he will but at the brink of extinction. He will come as a judge and he will reject those who have consistently rejected him. -30-

Filipino Pride and Erik Spoelstra

Who forgets Tim Lincecum’s World Series performance helping the San Francisco Giants win another series after 60 years? He was magnificent on the mound as the world watched him pitching. Filipinos and Filipino-Americans (Fil-Am) in the Bay Area and around the US were so proud when the Giants clinched the title knowing that Fil-Am Lincecum  is the hero of the Giants-Rangers square off.  Here at home, there was a story in the dailies chronicling his ancestry  and reminding us the feat of a great pitcher of Filipinos descent. Filipinos who are constantly searching for  heroes tip their cap for the achievement of  “one of their own”.

Now that the smoke of the World Series has settled down, the flame of  incinerated Filipino pride glimmers.

Or do we only have the so-called “Filipino pride” when a Fil-Am or a hyphenated Filipino is at the top of his/her game or winning a championship?

Are we intentionally leaving behind Coach Erik Spoelstra of the Miami Heat  who is the first Fil-Am coach of the NBA and the first Fil-Am head coach of any North American professional sports team simply because his guys are struggling on the court?

We read pleasant and unpleasant (mostly unpleasant) opinions about the beleaguered Spoelstra from international sources.  A number of basketball officionados and followers believe Miami Heat  is a very strong or invincible team because of the unparalleled trio talent of James, Wade and Bosh.  Despite high expectations,  the reverse makes more sense at this time.

The possibility of the legendary Pat Riley firing Spoelstra to pave his return to the floor to coach even cropped up but a number of game analysts believe that Erik is good in directing the game.  Some  have a no nonsense suggestion that Riley should support his young coach instead.

Now, where is Erik’s support from Fil-Ams in the Bay Area, Miami or in Chicago area where he was born and back here at home where his roots come from? The more popular basketball than baseball  sports in the country should be a  rallying point for us to support Erik.  Sadly,  we either don’t care or refuse to spark once more the Filipino pride simply because the Miami Heat under Spoelstra's eye is currently underachieving.

If time strikes that luck turns 360 degrees and the Heats are in the play off or finals to say the most, probably that will be the time when Fil-Ams abroad and us here at home will be proud again.

The childish mentality that we only know someone when he is at the top is uncharacteristically Filipino and the opposite of our traditional spirit of camaraderie that "Walang iwanan, sa hirap man o ginhawa." (No one should be left behind in victory or in defeat.)

Finally, that opportunistic and selective attitude reflects the true meaning of Filipino pride which is sometimes shameful if not trash. -30-

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Photo Credit:
http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=490921&publicationSubCategoryId=69

See related post at:
http://sapientiaaedificat.blogspot.com/2011/05/dallas-vs-miami-mavericks-in-7-or-7.html

December in the Philippines

As early as August I heard one radio station in Quezon City playing carols. While they say that Christmas is every time of the year, don’t you think that it was inappropriate to do that at that early? The host of the semi-religious program ignored my curious e-mail asking him why he was doing that but with no further shrill comments.

By custom, once the month ends in “ber”, viz., September, the long wait for Christmas is over in the Philippines. As days and weeks move further, the more carols are played in an increasing number of radio stations throughout the country that holds the record of having the longest Christmas Season in the world ending in Epiphany.

It is December and it’s getting “burr”. Yuletide spirit is here and I’m sure that by now, some exactly know where and how they spend Christmas; family members and relatives who come home from abroad or elsewhere, what gift to wrap for whom, the menu for the traditional Noche Buena the parties to give or attend to and for the more blessed, what to shop and where to shop.

In the years of my youth, (Here I am again, comparing my generation with the present.) where TV was a luxury item, no internet, computers, cell phones, cable TV and a less reliable technology, the thrust was strictly spiritual. Boys and girls are urged to and prepare piously for the coming of the Redeemer by attending the Misa de Gallo, the midnight Mass and contemplate on the birth of the Messiah, born in a lowly manger and gave His life for all so that we may live.

If there is a common wish at that time, it was a new dress or pair of shoes to be worn on Christmas Day. Grapes, oranges and apples, candies or chocolate are the favorite flavors in groceries while in some homes, traditional native pastries are made. Not to be forgotten are the staccato bursts of firecrackers almost 24/7.

Candle-light lanterns illuminate the street for nomadic carolers at night while candies, old Christmas cards, figurines and apples embellish some fresh Christmas trees.

Shades of commercialization were there but considered “bargain” or “sale” compared today where in big cities and in the neighborhood, state of the art technology and pricey goods make Christmas so expensive.

At a quicker pace, the Philippines is getting more Westernized in celebrating Christmas in a secular norm simply understood as shopping and gift-giving season.

When asked if one is ready for Christmas half a century ago, the expected answer is “Yes, I am regularly receiving the sacraments and doing personal meditation.”

Today, at least in the West, one responding the same question says “No, I still have to buy some gifts to complete my list and know whom to invite for a Christmas party.”

It looks like Christmas among the rich and powerful is losing its real essence while those suffering from poverty; not by choice but by force due to bad government and irresponsible government officials, Christmas is a time for them to identify themselves with Jesus who is poor, rejected and with the beasts of burden as His first guests instead of the “big shots”.

As December progresses, may this country come to accept that Christ is the meaning of Christmas and not secularism and materialism. -30-

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Photo Credit:

http://hackedgadgets.com/wp-content/_led_christmas_star.jpg