San Lorenzo Ruiz Parish

PYM Holds Youth General Assembly

2012-01-23T14:44:00.000+08:00

By Ate Cora Pangyarihan

The Youth Ministry held its 1^st Youth Assembly for the year 2012 from 2-7 PM last January 23^rd, attended by almost 40 youth from the different ministries. It was held at the Nishizaka Hall which was prepared for the occasion by Kuya Nico Garcia. The talks which were conducted by Kuya Anton Mamawag and yours truly centered on spiritual and personal preparation for Lent. Every activity was sealed by a prayer of commitment by each individual in front of the Cross.

A highlight of the activity was when the youth were asked to open up to the Lord at the prayer stations prepared by Kuya Nico, with the help of Mark Morato, Dina Obias, and Ellen Bautista. Tears flowed and sobs were heard through out. Even dinner time was part of the process. Each of us brought 1 canned good to share. We ate “kamayan” style on banana leaves to remind us to be generous but simple and humble.

Finally, the body made an evaluation of the past year, which was the main objective of the assembly. Everyone shared their ideas, needs and what they thought could be added to the programs for the Youth in the future. A post-evaluation of the assembly will be held by the Core Group in the following days.

It was truly a worthwhile experience for all. We prepared as best as we could, then the Holy Spirit took over.

PPC Starts the Year With A Planning Session

2012-01-23T14:41:00.000+08:00

Last January 23, the PPC buckled down to work and started the new year with its 2012 planning workshop. The participants included the PPC EXECOM and the heads of the different ministries and organizations of the parish.

The main agenda of the half-day affair was the synchronization of all plans and activities of all parish organizations with that of the liturgical calendar of activities of the Church as well as the Diocese of Novaliches and the Vicariate of San Isidro Labrador where SLRP belongs.

At the same time, the PPC identified the important events in connection with the forthcoming Silver Jubilee this coming September 2012. Fr. Luke and the PPC leadership stressed the need for all parish-based organizations to work together and align their activities. As an output of the planning workshop, the PPC shall come out shortly with the overall parish calendar of activities for 2012.

The ministries and organizations represented during the planning workshop included the PPC EXECOM, the heads of the Worship Ministry, Education Ministry, Social Services Ministry, Temporalities, Youth Ministry, Family and Life, Mass Media, Apostleship of Prayer, BEC, PREX, Spiritual Formation Team, Knights of Columbus and the Special Events.

The workshop was hosted by Kuya Tony and Ate Lina Feliciano at their residence.

Year 2012 Begins with Sto. Nino Procession

2012-01-23T14:19:00.000+08:00

The Sto. Nino is one of the most loved representations of Our Lord. In fact the Philippines has the distinct honor of being the only country in which this feast is celebrated. In our parish, we celebrated the feast by inviting the parishioners to bring their Sto. Nino images to the Sunday masses to be blessed. The response was very heartening as we saw in the many statues of the Child Jesus in all sizes, color and get-up that were lined up near the altar.

The parishioners were also invited to join the procession dressed in red.

The Parish Youth Ministry spearheaded the activity as they had done for the past couple of years. They provided a lively and participative atmosphere, even going to the extent of painting themselves black, mimicking the first natives who were introduced to the Christ Child. They led the procession of devotees as they danced their way through all the areas of the parish to the beat of Ati-atihan music.

PYM Gives Back

2011-12-24T10:17:00.002+08:00

By Aryanne Trinidad, PYM

What is Christmas for the PYM?

Last December 24, 2011 the PYM held a Christmas party for the less fortunate children of our parish. We came up with the idea of “a day not for ourselves but for those who need it the most.” We all shared our talents, time and treasures to make the event possible. We went caroling to raise funds and set up different committees (i.e., planning, program, logistics, food, and creative). As added preparation, we had a spiritual formation a few days before the party, participated in by the kids and the youth ministry with the help of Ate Cristy and Kuya Vic Vianzon, and Father Luke.

We all felt blessed; we all felt that this Christmas was the best. We saw the face of Jesus through these kids. We saw them smile, enjoy like no other and be nothing but themselves. Seeing the kids enjoy the food, the gifts, the presentations and the place, made our sacrifices and efforts all worth it.

Christmas is not just about the gifts. It’s about sharing what we have in our own little way. It’s about sharing our most valuable gift which is our time. It’s not true that we made their Christmas special, because it’s the other way around. They made our Christmas unforgettable. “Until one feels the spirit of Christmas, there is no Christmas. All else is outward display, so much tinsel and decorations. For it isn't the holly, it isn't the snow. It isn't the tree nor the firelight's glow. It's the warmth that comes to the hearts of men when the Christmas spirit returns again."

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year everyone.

Parish Launches Silver Jubilee Slogan

2011-12-24T06:19:00.007+08:00

With the start of the Advent season, the parish formally began its preparations for its Silver Jubilee anniversary this coming September 2012 with the launching of the Slogan-writing contest. The slogan will be the unifying theme for all activities related to the jubilee year.

Over 50 entries were received by the organizers and the committee had a difficult time assessing the most appropriate slogan that captures the mission and vision for the parish.

The announcement of the final slogan was made at the Christmas Eve mass. Although there was no single entry selected, the committee decided to award those who participated, in recognition of their efforts, as many of the entries were submitted anonymously. They were given certificates of appreciation during the same mass.

The committee finally came up with the theme for our jubilee year helped greatly by all the entries received. It goes:

San Lorenzo Ruiz: Sanlibong buhay...minsa'y ini-alay, hangaring isabuhay!

DYD Ha?! DYD Ha?! DYD Na!

2011-12-10T06:16:00.008+08:00

By Cora Pangyarihan, PYM Head

The 3^rd Diocesan Youth Day of the Diocese of Novaliches, the best and biggest so far, was 3 months in the making, It kicked off with the first general assembly of all youth leaders of our Diocese on October 16, 2011, followed by a lot more meetings, rehearsals, deadlines, and such. The participants who came from all over our diocese, totalled approximately 3,000!

December 10, the big day, started with the usual registration and settling down of all participants inside the Metro Manila College Gym in Jordan Plaines, Fairview Quezon City. At 9AM, we were graced by the presence of our most beloved Bishop Antonio Tobias, who along with Fr. Roland Jaluag, our Diocesan Spiritual Youth Director, and other priests, concelebrated the DYD Holy Mass. Closing the Mass and opening the program was the blessing of the Diocesan Youth Cross by Bishop Tobias. All the 10 Vicariates’ emblems, the Commission on Youth emblem, and the Diocese of Novaliches Youth emblem, were carved around the Cross. This special cross will make the rounds of the Diocese.

We were also graced by the presence of Bro.Obet Cabrillas,a Kerygma preacher, Feastwide Youth and Campus Missions Director, Feast Builder of Manila and Pasig, former “secret weapon” of a fraternity in college, now the “secret weapon” of the Light of Jesus Family. He talked about the beauty of each and everyone, of appreciating one another, of loving God and of being a loving person, of repentance, of encouragement, and of purity.

Lunch time was spent eating while working on our group sharing and reflection on Bro. Obet’s talk. Select youth from the different choir groups of SLRP Parish gave a special number with two songs entitled “Praise the Lord” and “Seasons of Love”. A resounding cheer echoed around the gym as we took our bow.

The day ended with a Taize Prayer headed by the Commission on Youth and the Vicariate Youth Leaders. Everyone danced and cheered with the final song as we felt very special that night.

The 2^nd part of the program was the DYD Youth Got Talent portion where the Special Awardees were announced. Our vicariate took home 3 awards, namely, the People’s Choice Award for the Canvass-making, headed by our very own Emman de Guzman and Regine Panajon, the BIDA Awards for Outstanding Vicariates and the most coveted Drum Set for the parish/vicariate that collected the highest amount in coins. Indeed, a great reward for all the hardship we went through during our preparations.

It was a memorable experience for all of us, especially for the Youth of San Lorenzo Ruiz Parish. A first for some, a great experience for all.

The Hidden God

2011-12-01T07:37:00.006+08:00

By Ate Virgie Santos

SLRP Catechist

On my way to a formation seminar for catechists at the Diocese of Novaliches, I marveled, and was suddenly engulfed in faith, at the true presence of God through Christ all over. All around me (Nature, the air, the people, even the empty space) I felt God’s living presence and it increased my faith greatly.

Once again, it became clear to me how God had created us. He shaped, fashioned and molded us through His hands from His own image and likeness. He shared His life, spirit and breath to give life to our first parents, Adam and Eve, which was passed on through the generations to us. Therefore God is not only love but life and that all men alive are with God.

Yes, the existence of God is indeed a mystery for nobody has seen God. But because of His love, He planted the seed of faith in all, to believe in His invisible existence. The remaining doubts about His presence is dispelled with Christ - the God who became man, lived among us, and continues to live in us through the Blessed Sacrament, the Holy Eucharist, the hidden Savior, the hidden God. This is the reason why the name of Jesus Christ continues to echo all over the earth, to those whom He chooses to spread His words and works. His Word and His compassion are offered to all especially to the lowest of His people.

Once when I was pouring out all my sentiments before the Blessed Sacrament I felt then that He was nowhere. At that time I just lost my parents, two brothers, two sisters-in-law within a few years of each other. At the same time my own family was beset with problems. I was totally devastated. While praying I said, “Please God, make me feel Your love”, thinking and expecting that He will favor me with granting even one of my petitions. But the language of God differs from ours. I suddenly felt a heaviness in my chest that seemed to crush me. I could hardly breathe and said “Lord I cannot breathe.” Then my breathing returned to normal and I got His message which was “No one in his mortal body can hold and carry God’s love in his heart for He tremendously suffered, was crucified and died, then rose back to life for our sake.”

This is the totality of His great and mysterious love for men. Indeed God continues to love even in the midst of the tribulations and turmoil of life. We need only to trust in God and love one another. Let us please God through Christ. Remember, we can never outdo the generosity of God. Our reward in heaven is worth more than a hundredfold of what we give in this life. I wish you good luck in pleasing Christ for the glory and honor of God, especially this Christmas season.

Fr. Luke Installs New Parish Leaders

2011-11-20T05:15:00.010+08:00

Last November 20, 2011, on the Feast of Christ the King, the new set of parish leaders were installed by Fr. Luke at the 10AM mass. The following PPC EXECOM members were commissioned:

PPC Chaircouple—Kuya Tony & Ate Lina Feliciano
PPC Asst Chaircouple—Kuya Peter & Ate Lina Tamayo
PPC Secretary—Ate Bel Geronimo
PPC Auditor—Kuya Vic Vianzon

Ate Tess Virata, the PPC Treasurer, could not make it due to a previous commitment.

Members and head of special committees on Contructions and Renovation and the Events Coordination (in preparation for the 25th Jubilee anniversary of the parish next year), were also installed. The members of the Construction and Renovation Committee are Kuya Cesar Tiongson— Administrator, Kuya Laya Victoria—Technical and Kuya Al Yap— Finance. Ate Josie Cruz heads the Special Events.

The newly appointed leaders signed their appointment papers at the altar.

Before the end of the mass, the outgoing PPC Chaircouple, Kuya Cesar and Ate Mayette Tiongson and the incoming Chaircouple, gave a few words to the parishioners.

Spirituality Formation Team Created

2011-11-18T07:21:00.005+08:00

One thing that needs a lot of nurturing in a parish is the continued growth in the level of spirituality of its workers and parishioners.

A few months ago, Fr. Luke set up the Sprituality Formation Team (SFT) which is jointly headed by Kuya Toti Mangubat and Ate Lulu Visaya who, between them, have a wealth of experience in Catholic spirituality and revival. And so last Friday, November 18, the SFT began its pilot seminar with a talk on PRAYER. Ate Christy Vianzon led the opening prayer while Ate Leila Vicente introduced the main speaker for the talk. Both are also members of the SFT.

The first part of the seminar, handled by Kuya Toti, discussed PRAYER - what it is about, what the prerequisites are for a good prayer and the different kinds of prayer. He ended his talk by introducing ACTS, a suggested sequence in praying: A- Adoration, C- Contrition, T- Thanksgiving and S- Supplication.

The second part of the seminar, which was handled by Ate Lulu, revolved around the practical aspect of praying. In it, she discussed the ACTS and led the congregation through a prayer “exercise” where she demonstrated the proper sequence in praying. This was followed by silent meditation and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament .

The last part of the seminar was a discussion by Fr. Luke on the role of the Parish Pastoral Council as the advisory arm of the Parish Priest, who is the designated representative of the bishop and given the responsibility for running the affairs of the parish.

PREX Moves On.....

2011-11-11T07:28:00.009+08:00

By Ate Bel Geronimo

PREX Secretariat

Following the revival of PREX with PREX 92 held in July 2011, two classes were scheduled thereafter – PREX 93 held in September 2011 and PREX 94 held in November 2011 with Kuya Ed & Ate Bel Geronimo and Kuya Peter & Ate Lina Tamayo as Lead Couples, respectively. All three seminars had a total of 48 graduates – the harvest for this year. With each class conducted, it is indeed heartening to note that somehow PREX had given people the opportunity to welcome Christ in their lives and to be of service to the parish.

As the year 2011 draws to a close, the PREX Secretariat decided to cap the year’s activities with a Christmas Party and Reunion held last December 4, 2011 at the SLRP Multipurpose Hall. Kuya Boy Temporal welcomed graduates from PREX 92, 93, 94 along with the auxiliaries and graduates from previous PREX classes. Everyone also listened to Fr. Luke’s Christmas message which touched on focusing more on spiritual preparation instead of preparations for material things, among others. Fr. Luke likewise suggested that the PREX graduates join the Holy Hour on December 14 at 8:00 pm as part of the spiritual sacrifice this Advent Season and tasked Ate Lulu Visaya to spearhead the activity. He is also looking forward to making this a commitment of all PREX graduates once a month on a Wednesday. Indeed, the party/reunion was a simple yet joyous, fun-filled afternoon with food, games, exchange of gifts and giving away of raffle gifts for everyone.

With the turnout in attendance in this year’s Christmas party, we realize that people come and go, leaders change, old practices give way to new ones but if we remain focused on the true objective of being an instrument of renewal and conversion, PREX will continue as long as there are people who want to understand the meaning of their faith.

Other parishioners who also want to experience Jesus and find out what PREX is all about are all welcome to attend PREX 95 to be held on February 17-19, 2012. Kuya Ed & Ate Hermie Chua will be the next Lead Couple and Kuya Joi and Ate Cecile Lumba, the Asst. Lead Couple.

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR TO ONE AND ALL . . from the PREX Secretariat

SLRP Holds First Youth Vocation Camp

2011-11-05T21:30:00.019+08:00

Last November 4 and 5, SLRP, through the initiative of Fr. Luke, Sis. Pilar Perez (of the SRA), Sis. Violy (of the DM) and Sis. Linlee Vios (of the ASC) conducted the first Vocation Camp for its youth. Its aim was to provide guidance to the young people in choosing their vocation or calling in life. The venue of the seminar was at the newly blessed Nishizaka Hall at the back of the church.

Prior to the actual camp itself, a workshop was conducted with members of the Parish Youth Ministry to determine their needs and aspirations. This provided the basis for the topics and group dynamics during the actual vocation camp.

Day 1 began with the registration of participants at 2pm, followed by the course overview conducted by Sis Pilar. Then came a lively game to determine the groupings of the partipants for the duration of the seminar. Various big and small group activities, from getting the participants’ expectations to group sharing to a talk on Healing by Fr. Luke, interspersed with participative games and lively animation songs, led by the SRA novices, then followed. The evening was capped by a solemn and serene Taize meditation inside the church with the participants gathered around the candlelit altar.

Before sunrise of Day 2, the participants and facilitators, were off to Tierra Verde II park for a half-hour of Shibashi meditation cum exercise and communing with nature led by Sister Pilar. This was followed by morning prayer at the chapel of the Sisters’ Adorers, then breakfast at Nishizaka Hall. The rest of the morning was filled with talks and sharing on the different vocations. It began with a talk on Vocation conducted by Sis. Marian, the Vocation Directress of the DM Sisters. This was followed immediately by personal sharings on the different vocations in life: the priesthood by Fr. Luke; the nunnery by Sis. Melba, SRA; the state of single blessedness by Ate Leila Vicente; and the married state by Kuya Al and Ate Karen Yap.

After lunch, the participants were given time to prepare for their presentation later that evening. Fr. Luke took the floor again at 4PM to talk on the Eucharist. Finally Sis. Flor, ASC guided the entire group as they assessed what they had learned over the 2-day seminar, finding out which of their expectations had been met and which needed to be addressed in future gatherings. The 2-day seminar closed with the Holy Mass at 6:30PM followed by the group presentations.

The graduates of this first Youth Vocation Camp were: Bea Copino, Chezbel Cayas, Riza Gan, Nico Garcia, Chico Gonzales, Emman De Guzman, AJ Jacolo, Mark Magpusao, Robert Navalta, Cora Pangyarihan, Rogel Quintero, Althea Tamayo, Princess Tan, Arriane Trinidad and Mehlea Virata.

It is the wish of the organizers that this initial camp opened the minds and hearts of the 15 participants to the different states of life as they discern their future. The talks, sharing and group discussions, hopefully, have provided them some guideposts in their journey through life.

Time to Move On

2011-10-28T22:09:00.000+08:00

By Kuya Cesar Tiongson
Outgoing PPC Coordinator

It was exactly twenty one months ago when Ate Mayette and I humbly accepted the offer of Father Luke to be the Parish Pastoral Council Coordinator of San Lorenzo Ruiz. In my short message during the Easter Sunday mass of that year I can very well remember what I said, “Please join us in our journey to build a community of San Lorenzo.” I said those words because I know that we can do nothing without the help of the parishioners. The second reason is, during that time I did not even know how the pastoral council worked. With God’s grace, twenty one busy months passed, with various projects and activities, and never had we felt alone even once in that journey.

Holy week, sacerdotal ordination, PPCRV in two elections, simbang gabi, tribute to pearl wedding anniversary celebrators, RH Bill rally, pilgrimage to Laguna churches, tribute to graduates, tributes to life, the fiesta, the bodega and many other activities kept us occupied these last 21 months. I cannot remember a single month that we were not busy with some activity. Looking back, I sometimes tell myself that to have accomplished all of these successfully a miracle must have happened to us every month.

Though we can all be proud of these accomplishments, never can we be boastful. Yes, we have done a lot of things, but a second look will tell us that what we have done is just a very small part of the things that still need to be done for San Lorenzo Ruiz community.

Let us not miss the point that behind our travel in our pilgrimage, the fun in celebrating wedding anniversaries, honoring our babies and graduates, and enjoying our pandesal over hot coffee during dawn masses, the true reason for these activities is to know one another, understand one another, help one another in times of need so that eventually we can build our dream community.

For me, a community goes beyond the rubbing of elbows. It is the parishioners being spiritually one in faith with God, caring for one another, and working together unconditionally for our church. The activities we have engaged in these past months are a good start to make this dream become a reality, but I must admit, we have just started. This is the challenge that awaits the new PPC leadership, to “build one community of San Lorenzo Ruiz Parish.”

Now the time has come for us to hand over the council to the new officers. With Kuya Tony and Ate Lina Feliciano, supported by Kuya Peter and Ate Lina Tamayo, helping Father Luke in running our church, I have no doubt that that dream community will be a reality. With the wisdom of the Felicianos and the energy of the Tamayos I am sure that the work of Father Luke in the coming days will be much easier.

For Ate Mayette and me, the last 21 months will be one of the most memorable parts of our life, memorable because you were all with us when we needed your help. Each one of you not only joined us, but even guided us in our journey. Those things, we will never forget… “At sa lahat ng taga San Lorenzo Ruiz Parish na nakasama namin - Maraming Salamat Po!”

Pilgrimage to Regina RICA in Tanay

2011-10-22T22:36:00.032+08:00

Last Saturday, October 22, 2011 was another memorable day for SLRP. After a couple of weeks of preparation, back-and-forth meetings and an ocular visit, the pilgrimage to Regina RICA (Regina Rosarii Institute for Contemplation in Asia) in the hills of Tanay, Rizal pushed through. About 100 parishioners filling two tourist buses joined the trip which included visits to the St. Jerome Parish Church in Morong and the St. Joseph Parish church in Baras, both old churches in Rizal province.

The pilgrims left SLRP a little after six in the morning and arrived at the pilgrimage site about 3 hours later due to the slow climb up picturesque Marcos Highway and a wrong turn at a town in Sampaloc, Tanay. With more than an hour's delay, the organizers made hurried adjustments in the schedule.

At Regina RICA, one was immediately drawn to the huge 71-foot statue of Our Lady on Top of the Hill which dominated the 13.5-hectare property. The Dominican Sisters had just celebrated the first anniversary of its completion a couple of weeks before. It was in fact the first structure that was built on the property.

Upon arrival at Regina RICA, the group couldn’t wait to go up and get close to Our Lady. To make the group more manageable, it was divided into four smaller groups. Each small group recited the rosary as it ascended via the S-Trail which snaked all the way to the top. At the top, Sister Matthew welcomed everyone and gave a brief introduction to the place. A joyful celebration of the Eucharist followed under the mantle of Our Lady with Fr. Luke presiding.

After the mass, everyone went up to the Blessed Sacrament at the Adoration Chapel inside the mantle of Our Lady followed by some souvenir photos around the place. Others went to the Handuman souvenir shop while still others had a hearty snack at the Pasilungan restaurant.

The next stop after Regina were the old churches of Morong and Baras, two churches in the southern part of Rizal. St. Jerome Church in Morong was built during the early Spanish colonization and showcases its towering facade (about 7 storeys high) of baroque architecture. On the other hand, St. Joseph Church in Baras, although relocated from the original site in Boso Boso, Rizal and which was then just a chapel, had a beautiful and ornate altar. One can still see the original wooden trusses that supported its roof.

In Morong, a pastoral worker of the parish played gracious host and offered one of their meeting rooms for the pilgrims to have their lunch. After lunch, it was off to Baras Church where a representative gave the group a brief history of the Church of St. Joseph. This was the last stop of the pilgrimage before heading for home.

Father Luke Announces New PPC Appointments

2011-10-22T21:09:00.005+08:00

Last October 22, 2011, at historic St. Jerome Church in Morong, Rizal, Father Luke announced the appointment of SLRP's new PPC Chair-couple and the EXECOM.

The incoming PPC EXECOM is composed of Kuya Tony and Ate Lina Feliciano as PPC Coordinators, Kuya Peter and Ate Lina Tamayo as Asst. Coordinators, Ate Bel Geronimo as Secretary, Ate Tess Virata as Treasurer and Kuya Vic Vianzon as Auditor. Also appointed were Kuya Laya Victoria as Head of Construction Projects, Ate Bimbot Sevilla as Worship Ministry Head, Kuya Cesar Tiongson as Asst Head for Construction Projects and Ate Josie Cruz as Coordinator for Special Events, both Liturgical and Non-Liturgical.

The new PPC Chair-couple gave their acceptance talk and asked for the support of all while outgoing PPC Coordinator Kuya Cesar Tiongson gave his response on behalf of Ate Mayette and himself. In it he thanked everyone who helped make their one-and-half year journey a memorable and spiritually fulfilling one.

The newly appointed parish leaders will begin their term after their installation shortly after the start of the new Liturgical Year and will serve for the next two years.

Msgr. Romy Ranada Talks on Servant Leadership

2011-10-14T07:47:00.004+08:00

Annually towards the end of the Liturgical year, SLRP begins its renewal activities for its parish workers. One of its activities is the parish recollection. Last October 14, the PPC invited the Rev. Msgr. Romulo-Jesus C. Rañada, the parish priest of Our Lady of the Annuciation, to talk on Servant Leadership.

It was a refreshing and informative discussion on the code of conduct of parish workers. He explained the important role of parish workers and leaders emphasizing that serving in the church should and must follow the example of Jesus, the paramount servant leader. If one wants to be a leader, s/he must first be the servant of all.

Msgr. Ranada’s talk was centered on the Gospels with particular focus on the Washing of Feet narrative in John 13:1-17. It is only in the Gospel of John that this particular episode in the passion of Jesus is found. In all the other gospels, it is the Last Supper that is presented.

He explained that the first thing the Lord did, after getting a basin of water, was to remove His outer garment and wrap it around His waist. By taking off His outer garment, Jesus shed His divine persona and became one with us. It symbolizes His complete humility and obedience to the Father.

After the washing, Jesus left this commandment for His disciples “I have washed your feet, so too must you do to each other. If you call me Lord and Master, then you must follow the example I have shown you. For no servant is greater than his master, nor a messenger greater than the one who sent the message.”

SLRP Delegation Attends Grand Rosary Rally

2011-10-08T09:28:00.014+08:00

By Ate Aida Arines
Worship Ministry

Last October 8, 2011, a Grand Rosary Rally sponsored by the Family Rosary Crusade in the Philippines and in cooperation with UST, was held in front of the main building, participated in by parishes from different dioceses together with religious priests and nuns belonging to different congregations.

A delegation from San Lorenzo Ruiz Parish led by Fr. Luke joined the event commemorating the 60th (1951-2011) Anniversary of the Family Rosary Crusade initiated by the late Fr. Patrick Peyton.

The festivities started at 4pm with joyful songs of praise and dances by the youth from different Marian groups. A brief history of the apparition of the Lady of Fatima was narrated to recall the relevance and meaning of the Holy Rosary...Unity in Christ in praying the rosary.

When the Image of Our Lady of La Naval arrived after a brief procession, the rosary was recited, led by assigned prayer leaders. In between the decades and before each mystery, different personalities shared their faith experience with the Holy Rosary followed by a song from different singers like Fatima Soriano and Jose Marie Chan and his daughter.

A Dominican nun shared her story of conversion from being an INC to becoming a nun which paved the way also for the conversion of her whole family who became evangelizers themselves. Chinchin Gutierrez also shared how she never lost hope despite all the tragedies and misfortunes she experienced.

The Holy Rosary was recited basically in English, however some decades were prayed in Tagalog and also in the Visayan dialect. After the rosary was the Coronation of the Lady followed by a floral offering and the celebration of the Holy Eucharist.

This tribute to the Blessed Virgin Mary during the month of October, the month of the Holy Rosary, is a devotion and a reminder for all Catholics and devotees that Mama Mary loves us and will always intercede and pray for us. It is also to remember the memory of the late Fr. Patrick Peyton, who reminded us that . .

Cardinal Sanchez Presides Fiesta 2011 High Mass

2011-09-25T07:07:00.005+08:00

This year’s fiesta celebrations marked another milestone for the parish. Ever since the parish was formally consecrated by the late Jaime L. Cardinal Sin in 1987, this was the first time that another cardinal, His Eminence Jose T. Cardinal Sanchez, officiated Holy Mass, but more specifically the fiesta High Mass last September 25, 2011.

Extensive preparations were made to make the cardinal’s visit pleasant due to his advanced age. He was given a dignitary’s welcome, complete with the Knights of Columbus providing him with Honor Guards.

A short caracol procession by some of the parish youth ushered the entrance of the statue of San Lorenzo Ruiz borne on the shoulders of some KoC. This was followed by the mass.

In his homily, the good cardinal, who just recently retired as Prefect of the Clergy in Rome, espoused the virtues of brotherhood in the Lord when he said “If God is our Father, then we are all brothers and sisters...and we should take care of one another.”

After the mass, the cardinal was treated to some local cuisine from his native Bicol province. Fr. Luke and the PPC officers hosted the lunch.

Kontra-GaPi SLRP’s Parish Night Was Different This Year

2011-09-24T20:14:00.001+08:00

The Kontemporaryong Gamelan Pilipino or Kontra-GaPi, the resident ethnic music and dance ensemble of the College of Arts and Letters of the University of the Philippines in Diliman was a special guest at the SLRP’s Parish Night. Using ethnic instruments of drums, gongs and xylophones, they wowed the audience with music it rarely heard, music that someone said he associated with nature. Originally set to play two pieces of music, the band ended up playing four numbers to satisfy the audience’s request for more. Their last number delighted the audience even more when the female members danced to the beat of the instruments played by their fellow members.

The presence of the Kontra-GaPi during the Parish Night was made possible through Anjo Santiago, who is one of its members and who also happens to be the musical director of the SLRP Gospel Choir.

PYM Holds Amazing Race 2011

2011-09-24T10:10:00.003+08:00

What could dark clouds, an overcast sky and a bunch of determined and charged youngsters come to? You guessed it— a perfect day for an amazing race of speed, accuracy, spirituality, inteliggence, strong stomachs and team work.

Last September 24, four teams of 5 members each, participated in the race and tried to outdo each other. Scattered all over the five areas of the parish were six different challenges that each team had to go through on their way to the finish line. The race was not solely based on the fastest team but on how well they performed the tasks at each of the control points. There were challenges that tested their speed, their intelligence, their stomachs, their knowledge of the Catholic faith and their fears.

The overall winner was the team of Abigail Panajon, Chrissel Tamayo, Danielle Beldeniza and Rogel Quintero. They won two large boxes of pizza and the Grand Prize trophy for their efforts.

Spearheaded by the Parish Youth Ministry, the amazing race ended with everyone taking home some prizes, not to mention the fun and camaraderie. This fun race could not have been successful without the full support of all those who donated the prizes and helped in the procurement and preparation of the various game paraphernalia.

Despite the rainy weather, the bright and warm atmosphere among the teams and the organization could not dampen the enthusiasm of the youngsters from enjoying the day.

SLRP Kids Join Family Day Games

2011-09-24T07:13:00.003+08:00

Saturday, September 24, was a day of fun and games for the younger children in the parish. The drizzle did not stop them from enjoying a few hours of games. There were traditional Pinoy games lined up for them, including Pukpok-Palayok and Pabitin. This was also organized by the PYM. Lots of candies and toys were there for the taking. Even the not-so-young joined in with their own Pukpok-Palayok and Pabitins. No one went home empty-handed.

There was also a Karaoke singing contest for those who dared to belt out their favorite songs. For those that won, there were prizes to reward their efforts. In the end, was anyone crowned the Karaoke King or Queen? Well…...

PYM Presents JOMEI—A Drama Play

2011-09-23T07:11:00.005+08:00

Another play was mounted by the Parish Youth Ministry for this year’s feast of San Lorenzo Ruiz. Entitled “Jomei at ang Lalaki sa Likod ng Liwanag”, the play presented the life and conversion of Jomei, the chief of the Samurai assigned to guard the martyrs—the Dominican friars together with San Lorenzo Ruiz.

Originally researched by Ate Lina Feliciano, the play lifts from her work the salient events in the life of Jomei directly surrounding his conversion after his encounter with San Lorenzo Ruiz.

At the heart of the play was the fortuitous crossing of paths between Jomei and the humble escribano from Binondo. As head of the Samurai guards, Jomei was given the big responsibility of converting the “heathens” to Shinto, the religion of Japan. But by the grace of God, Lorenzo’s steadfast faith had a troubling and lasting impact on his oppressor that eventually led to his conversion. Towards the end of his life, Jomei could be seen having frequent conversations with an unseen visitor, the man he says “is behind the light”. Their conversations were chronicled by Jomei’s granddaughter who turned these over to the proper religious authorities. These provided the documentary evidence of San Lorenzo’s “first miracle”. At the last hour of his life, Jomei called his granddaughter, asked her to pour water over his forehead symbolic of the rights of Christian baptism.

The PYM every effort to come up with a quality presentation in this their first “big budget” production. One saw from the sets, the costumes, the make-up, the sounds and the lighting, the creative efforts of the PYM to come up with a play they could really be proud of and which the audience appreciated. The actors and actresses too gave their best , particularly those who played the role of the samurai and tortured martyrs. The audience seemed to feel the punches, the kicks, the moans and groans as if they were there.

Through these weeks of preparation, from conceptualization to the night of their performance, the PYM showed how far they have grown as a ministry.

SLRP Holds Successful Munting Lakan at Lakambini ng Sanlo

2011-09-17T07:12:00.002+08:00

In a project that was started in late June 2011, Fr. Luke and the PPC began the fund-raising drive to rehabilitate the storage room at the back of the church. As part of the this year’s parish fiesta celebration, the Munting Lakan at Lakambini project was launched to rally the different ministries and organizations to support this communitarian effort to raise funds for the construction of safe and secure storage facility for the church. As an offshoot of this project, a larger portion of the area will house a meeting room which is badly needed by the growing parish.

And so on Parish Night, the main highlight of the program was the announcement by Fr. Luke of the total funds raised. The project generated over P177,000.00 in donations with the AP, MBG and Music Ministry, as a team, generating the largest share. As a result, their muses, Lakan Karl Sebastian Tan Ng Gui and Lakambini Ladan Andales, were crowned Munting Lakan at Lakambini ng Sanlo.

Fr. Luke and actress and MBG member Ms. Nova Villa awarded the sash and crowns. The project exceeded its target of raising P100,000 through the bayanihan efforts of all ministries and organizations as well as the parents and guardians of the munting lakans and lakambinis and the rest of SLRP.

While it was a friendly competition among the different teams (made up of groups of ministries and organization), it was clear that the winner was the parish of San Lorenzo Ruiz. Very soon it shall boast a new and secured storage facility with a spacious meeting room to ease the congestion of the current parish hall which can no longer accommodate all the meetings and functions of its ministries and organizations. This is San Lorenzo Ruiz’ precious gift to his parishioners on the occasion of his feast.

SLRP Launches Tianggehan 2011

2011-09-10T11:10:00.002+08:00

After a two-year lull, the Tianggehan sa Sanlo was back. This time the tianggehan lasted four weekends, one weekend more than previous offerings. A total of 15 vendors participated in this year's edition, selling various goods from new and used clothing to bling-blings, ornamental accessories, health food, toys, religious items and cooked food.

The tianggehan, together with all stalls and vendors, were blessed by Fr. Luke as it was officially opened last September 11.

Parish Cleaning Day 2011

2011-09-10T10:49:00.004+08:00

The fiesta anniversary celebrations started with the Parish Cleaning Day on September 10, a Saturday.

This traditional yearly activity marks the parish’s preparation for its founding anniversary. This year, the 24th anniversary was celebrated last September 25 and as in the past, the different ministries and organizations contributed their time in tidying up the church and its immediate surroundings.

SLRP Pastoral Leaders Attend Servant Leadership Talk

2011-09-09T10:47:00.007+08:00

Last September 9, invited leaders from the parishes of San Isidro Labrador Vicariate gathered at Our Lady of Consolation parish for a talk by Monsignor Romy Ranada on a very relevant topic Servant Leadership. The whole talk centered on following the example of Jesus as found in the Bible passage from John 13:1-17.

According to Msgr. Ranada, Jesus espoused a suffering type of leadership as he gave himself as an example for all at the washing of the feet when He said… “what I have done to you...so you too should do to each other”. This is the kind of leadership He wants us to follow... to humble ourselves as parish leaders and followers for no servant is greater than his master nor the messenger greater than the sender of the message. We are all messengers of Christ's message and servants of the Lord.

He further gave the congregation some guidelines as parish leaders:

1. Read the Bible. Get to know Jesus. Understand the Gospels.

2. Pray..pray..pray. The more responsibilities one has, the more he needs to pray.

3. Be humble in everything you do, especially as leaders. Do not be self-conscious. Have the right EGO (Exalting God Only rather than Edging God Out).

4. Be generous. Give of your time, talent and treasure.

He ended his talk with the community singing of The Servant Song.

Munting Lakan At Lakambini ng SLRP

2011-08-27T07:50:00.001+08:00

The search is on!

Last August 13, the PPC, through its Committee on Non-Liturgical activities and upon the direction of Fr. Luke, launched the search for the Munting Lakan at Lakambini ng Sanlo, a fund-raising campaign to raise needed financial support for the renovation of the church storeroom and the construction of a new meeting hall for the growing community of SLRP.

Five pairs of boys and girls aged 5-12 years old, were fielded by different ministries as Lakan and Lakambini candidates, and were presented to the parishioners in selected masses last August 28. To raise funds, these candidates together with the ministries assigned to support them, are to sell tickets costing P20 each. The more tickets sold, the more funds raised. The pair that raises the most amount will be crowned Munting Lakan and Lakambini during Parish Night. There will be trophies and other prizes for the winners. The real winner however would be our own parish which will soon sport a newly renovated “Simbodega”. The pairs are:

Tandem 1
Ladan Andales & Karl Sebastian Tan Ng Gui
(Sponsored by the AP, MBG and Music Ministry)

Tandem 2
Sarah Nicole Yadao & Vladimir Beldeniza
(Sponsored by the SSDM and CFC)

Tandem 3
Audrey Anne Vianzon & Ernesto Jesus Angelo Bautista V
(Sponsored by the EMHC, LECOM and MAS)

Tandem 4
Anne Cuadra & Gabriel Paolo Antonio
(Sponsored by the MMM, PYM and Knights of Columbus)

Tandem 5
Michelle Berylle Santos & Ruiz Kassel Mapanoo
(Sponsored by the Catechists, BRC and LOM)

The PPC and the Organizing Committee under Fr. Luke fervently hope that the community of San Lorenzo will, as usual, come together and join this fun and worthy exercise.

The Philippines - Preserving A Culture of Life

2011-08-25T11:27:00.004+08:00

As debate over the anti-life Reproductive Health (RH) Bill heats up in the Philippine legislature, a new documentary highlighting the fight for life in the Philippines is set to air on Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN).
The short documentary film “The Philippines: Preserving a Culture of Life,” produced by Human Life International (HLI), underscores one of the most dramatic social and political struggles for life and family in the world. The film is already in heavy rotation on EWTN in the Philippines, and will debut in the United States and Canada on Tuesday, August 23.

This powerful pro-life documentary airs on EWTN in America and Canada on August 23 at 3:30 AM, then runs again on August 25 at 1:30 PM and August 26 at 9:00 PM. All times EST.

The program, shot in cinematic widescreen format, captures stunning scenes and heartfelt interviews with Filipino pro-lifers leading the charge against the RH Bill including Archbishop of Cebu Jose Palma, Philippine Congressman Dr. Anthony Golez, HLI Philippines Director Dr. Rene Bullecer and Dr. Ligaya Acosta, a former pro-abortion Philippine Department of Health manager who is now HLI’s Regional Director for Asia and Oceania.

“Right now, proponents of the anti-life RH Bill are still a few votes short of achieving their deadly goal,” said Monsignor Ignacio Barreiro-Carambula, interim president of HLI. “Our wish is that this documentary will inspire not only Filipinos, but pro-lifers around the world, to stand with our brothers and sisters in the Philippines against the culture of death.”

“It is profoundly inspiring to hear everyday Filipinos, as well as leaders from the political realm and the Catholic Church talk about how they have fought off this intrusive, anti-life and anti-family bill in its different forms for twelve years,” said Stephen Phelan, executive producer of the documentary and director of communications for HLI.

“It is in some ways reminiscent of the struggle over health care in [the United States] – a detached political elite continues to force through a bill that the people have said time and again that they don’t want,” said Phelan. “The bill’s backers use deceptive language, they are funded by hundreds of millions of dollars from outside the Philippines, and they are attempting to attack and divide the Catholic Church.”

“Everyone must understand what is going on in the Philippines, and how we are all bound in the struggle for life and family,” Phelan added.

HLI is currently working with Filipino pro-life organizations such as CBCP for Life and Filipinos for Life to spread the word about opposition to the RH Bill, and to promote the new documentary.

HLI is also hosting a contest on Facebook where pro-lifers are invited to leave a brief prayer for the Philippines or a note of encouragement for a chance to win a free DVD copy of the documentary.

Lifted from an email

Fr. Dong Yadao Celebrates Novena Mass

2011-08-21T07:47:00.011+08:00

August 21 was an auspicous day for the parish of San Lorenzo Ruiz. On this beautiful Sunday morning, the parish welcomed one of its sons, the Rev.Fr. Rolando Rosendo "Dong" De Gracia Yadao. He was the main celebrant on the 5th Novena Mass in honor of our patron saint. The mass was very special with Fr. Dong's immediate family and friends present together with the larger SLRP community.

Fr. Dong began serving the parish way back in the 90s when he joined the parish choir. After much soul-searching over the past two decades, he finally decided to dedicate his life to serving others by becoming a priest. He was ordained to the Priesthood last May 28, 2011 at the Archdiocese of Newark in New Jersey where he is presently assigned.

Quoting from his current parish priest Fr. Jack:

"A single question played a deciding role in Father Rolando Rosendo DeGracia Yadao’s decision to devote his life to God’s call. “What is it that will make me happy and fulfilled in life?” With the help of a spiritual director, he got the answer.

Growing up in the Philippines, Fr. Dong Yadao, 35, has a master’s degree in Pastoral Ministry. He was a deacon at Our Lady of Mercy Parish in Jersey City. “The community life I learned to love” is the most memorable aspect of his seminary years. “God showed me how unique each individual is and how each one is gifted with skills and talents essential in building God’s kingdom on earth.”

Fr. DeGracia Yadao did his field education and summer assignments at Saint Theresa Parish in Kenilworth and Our Lady of Mercy Parish in Jersey City.

On the eve of becoming a priest, his hope is that “my brother priests will always be available to me in my struggles. It is my desire to journey with them and be their companion in every way. Only a brother priest can understand another priest. As a newly ordained, I pray that I can also be an inspiration to others just as holy priests have been an inspiration to me. My only prayer is that God’s mercy and love will continue to purify me and make me a worthy minister of His Word and sacraments as I offer my life for His glory.”

During his homily, he made a poignant distinction between two kinds of knowing - knowing a person based on physical attributes and knowing a person through a personal relationship. He gave a more appropriate distinction by using the Tagalog words alam and kilala. He exhorted everyone present to know (kilala) Christ more because that is the only way one can spread His love, by knowing Him intimately and spreading His gospel of love.

After the mass, everyone lined up to kiss the hands of Fr. Dong, a traditional act of veneration for newly ordained priests.

Lunch and some fellowship with Fr. Dong, his family and SLRP wellwishers followed immediately after the mass.

Pilgrimage to Binondo

2011-08-20T07:49:00.009+08:00

Last August 20, the parishioners of San Lorenzo set out on another pilgrimage, the second one this year. This time it was a visit to the Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz in Binondo where Lorenzo Ruiz was born, grew up and served. A special mass was celebrated by our parish priest Fr. Luke and Fr. Matthias, who is assigned to the Basilica and who used to be a guest priest in SLRP.

After the mass, there was a brief photo session followed by a 30-minute talk on the life of San Lorenzo by a representative of the parish.

The remaining time was spent soaking up the sights, sounds and bargains of Chinatown. There were plenty of things to see, explore and definitely buy.
Lunch for most of the parishioners was held at the Jolibee outlet close to the church. Everyone left Binondo at 1pm and were back at the parish by 2pm.

Parish Tree Planting

2011-08-13T23:55:00.002+08:00

Last August 13, the parish had its tree planting ceremony, in fulfillment of its commitment with the Diocese of Novaliches, to help preserve the environment. The activity was led by Fr. Luke, the Social Services and Development Ministry, some members of the Parish Pastoral Council and representatives from Dona Faustina Village 1, the host area for this initial green project.

Mahogany and narra seedlings were planted in the designated area within the DFV1 open park just before the start of the area mass. Through this green project, the parish hopes that other areas will take up the cudgels in support of the environment, which has been heavily battered by irresponsible and wanton destruction of its trees and natural resources.

Pilgrim Image of Our Lady of Fatima Visits Parish

2011-08-06T07:48:00.005+08:00

August 6, began just as any normal Saturday, in the parish with the 6AM mass. Supposedly, the regular monthly first Saturday Dawn Procession would have been done before the mass. But this day, the parish had a most welcome visitor in the pilgrim image of Our Lady of Fatima. She stayed in the parish for two weeks.

After a hearty repast of pandesal and coffee, everybody present, and there were more than your usual dawn procession habitues, began preparing for the welcome ceremonies. The altar was setup with beautiful and fresh flowers for Our Lady, the welcome banner was positioned at the church entrance, beautiful little blue and white flaglets were distributed to the parishioners, the pickup truck was checked prior to its trip to the nearby Our Lady of Consolation Parish to fetch Our Lady, and blue and white balloons adorned the cars that were going to join the motorcade.

By 7:30AM everything was ready and the motorcade left for OLCP.

Prior to the image's departure, the crown and rosary adorning the virgin were temprarily removed from the image and turned over to the SLRP representatives, headed by Fr. Luke. After the ceremonies, Fr. Madz, the parish priest of OLCP formally turned over the image to Fr. Luke for its short journey to SLRP. The image arrived at the parish at 8:30AM warmly welcomed by the congregation. There followed the arrival ceremonies where the crown and the rosary were fitted back into the image for her two-week stay.

For the rest of Our Lady's visit, daily devotional prayers and recitation of the Rosary were offered, with the Block Rosary Crusade and Legion of Mary devotees leading the congregation. The highpoint of her visit was the 2000 Hail Marys offered by the parish on August 13.

On August 19, after the evening mass, the pilgrim image left the parish for San Isidro Labrador Parish, its home for the next two weeks. Led by representatives from SILP who fetched, a candlelight procession of parishioners from both SILP and SLRP, accompanied the image.

Repair of Church Bodega Begins

2011-07-26T23:29:00.005+08:00

With the onset of the rainy season and in response to the rising incidence of theft in the parish, especially of things stored in the bodega behind the church, the PPC has taken upon itself to rehabilitate the bodega.

Its dilapidated state has also resulted in a number of things getting damaged from the elements. As Father Luke emphasized in his catechism on stewardship, it is the parish leaders who must take responsibility over the care and protection of these communal property.

Thus toward the end of June, the PPC started a fund-raising campaign and with the generous contributions of well-meaning and benevolent parishioners, the project has gotten underway.

As of the last week of July 2011, total donations amounted to P99,964 while total expenses totalled P44,546 and outstanding payables totalled P47,756.00 for a net cash position of P7,662.00. In the forthcoming issues, we shall a running tally of the funds coming in vis-à-vis the expenses until the ongoing project is completed.

Solemn Gala Procession Begins Fiesta Activities

2011-07-23T06:53:00.007+08:00

Every year, for the past several years, on the occasion of the patron saint’s feast day, the image of San Lorenzo Ruiz is brought to all areas of the parish in a grand festive procession.

This year differs from the rest in that the parish also held a solemn gala candlelight procession last July 23 to kick off the nine-week novena for our beloved saint’s feast day on September 28. It was participated in by the different ministries and organizations in the parish with their members dressed in their gala uniforms. They were also joined by other parishioners and devotees of San Lorenzo.

The procession is a way for our patron saint to invite all his constituents to join in the preparation and celebration of the 24th founding anniversary of the parish this coming September.

CFC Conducts Christian Life Seminar in Parish

2011-07-16T06:55:00.010+08:00

Couples for Christ - Foundation for Family & Life (CFC-FFL) is a Catholic movement intended for the renewal and strengthening of Christian family life. CFC-FFL works with Christian couples and establishes families committed to the work of evangelization and other community services. It grows mainly through localized units in different parishes.

The Christian Life Seminar (CLS) is the initiation course leading into a life in the Holy Spirit. More specifically, it is the entry point into CFC-FFL. It is an integrated course intended to lead seminar participants into a renewed understanding of God’s call to them as Christians and their commitment to Christian family life.

The CFC-FFL Chapter of San Lorenzo Ruiz Parish, under the servant leadership of Bro. Reggie Mercado, is conducting a Christian Life Seminar (CLS) which started last Saturday, July 16, 2011 at the SLRP Multi-Purpose Hall from 7:30-10:30pm. It will run for a total of 9 separate sessions held once a week every Saturday until September 10. The seminar is open to all Christian married couples of any age.

The CLS commenced with the CFC-FFL members and service team, led by Team Leader, Bro. Jules Siguenza, welcoming all the participants who came not only from surrounding areas under San Lorenzo Ruiz parish but from other parishes as well. Formal sessions started with a group prayer with everyone joining later on for a short but lively singing of worship songs. Then the first talk was given by Bro. Paul Price which was all about God’s Love. A third vital component of the CLS, the discussion groups, were formed and handled by different members of the chapter. Afterwards, everyone shared some snacks and time for fellowship.

It is God’s plan that the family be the basic unit of society. However, there are many forces in the world today that try to destroy that foundation. CFC-FFL’s mission is to rise in defense of the family and to strengthen it , through doing God’s works.

With it, we are inviting all couples to join the Christian Life Seminar (CLS). Help us continue to intensify the foundation of every family in our community. Not only does each couple develop a special relationship with God, they also will learn ways to nurture that relationship with abundant love and at the same time guide their children towards a better Christian life.

In CFC-FFL, a couple gains a new family of brothers and sisters and a strong environment of support for their needs in the nurturing the family. Journeying with us will allow God’s blessing to come their way as they begin to experience a better life.

Come and participate in the renewal and discover the power of the Holy Spirit’s work in your family.

PPC Buckles Down To Work For Fiesta 2011

2011-07-09T06:57:00.007+08:00

Last July 9, in its regular monthly meeting, the PPC began serious preparations for this year’s fiesta acitvities. With the heads of the different ministries in participation, the PPC divided itself into three committees: Liturgical Committee, which will handle all worship related activities, Non-Liturgical Committee, which will handle all social, cultural, sports, recreational and fellowship activities, and the Finance Committee, which will handle all fund-raising needs of the fiesta.

These committees are headed by:

Liturgical Committee—Father Luke and Ate Aida Arines, head of the Worship Committee

Non-Liturgical Committee—Kuya Cesar Tiongson, PPC Coordinator and Ate Josie Cruz, Asst. PPC Coordinator

Finance Committee—Ate Tess Virata PPC Treasurer and Ate Mayette Tiongson

These different committees worked on their plans and activities. They will be responsible for ensuring the coordination and participation of all ministries and organizations in the activities lined up for the fiesta celebrations and the success of the events.

PREX Resumes with Seminar #92

2011-07-03T07:46:00.004+08:00

In May 2011, Fr. Bienvenido Luke Dobles, SLRP Parish Priest and PREX Spiritual Director gave his blessing to resume the PREX (Parish Renewal Experience) after a 1-year hiatus. Changes were incorporated to accommodate the new parish realities. The process of choosing the couples to make up the new PREX Secretariat was arrived at after intense prayer and much reflection. It took another month of prayer and reflection before these couples were finally confirmed. The Secretariat is made up of couples who are not new to parish work. In fact they already serve in different organizations in the parish in varying capacities. They have vowed to God to work as a team to commit to undertake the task of steering the PREX movement in SLRP in the direction set by Fr. Luke. The Secretariat is made up of Kuya Ed/Ate Bel Geronimo as Asst Chair-couple, Kuya Ed/Ate Hermie Chua as Treasurer, Kuya Peter/Ate LinaTamayo as Auditor and Head of the Food Ministry respectively, Kuya Joi/Ate Cecile Lumba as head of the Music Ministry and yours truly as Chair-couple.

Immediately after the confirmation of the new Secretariat, the group, with Father, met every Wednesday for the next 5 weeks to prepare for PREX 92 which was slated for the first weekend of July. Each meeting began with faith sharing, an innovation introduced by Fr. Luke. Each team member was given a specific task to perform even as the team worked in unity and harmony to ensure the success of the seminar.

The Secretariat adopted the practices that were effective in the past seminars and made adjustments in the schedule of the talks and activities to make each participant seriously go through the logical process of self-examination, understanding and cleansing and to become better Catholics. All the speakers and sharers were tapped from our parish. Valuable inputs, insights, experiences and support from previous PREX secretariats, from the immediate past Chair-couple Kuya Buddy/Ate Bing Lising and Ate Lulu Visaya helped make the transition smooth. All throughout, the Secretariat was guided by God’s love and the belief that the PREX is really a process of evangelization through a series of inter-related talks and sharing. As a result of the changes, fewer servants were needed during the 3-day seminar. The PPC, through its members, also assisted. The AP, BRC and LOM organizations led the prayer brigades while many other generous people contributed their time, talent and treasure. At the end of 3 days, Batch 92 produced 19 new graduates.

The question now for the graduates is “What’s next after graduation?” We are happy to note that to-date most of the graduates are present in the weekly meetings as they prepare for the next seminar, PREX 93. They are now in the process of discerning where and how to best serve as active members of the SLRP community.

With this, we are encouraging all our parishioners who have not experienced this seminar to come and join us and see God’s showering of love through the PREX. Our next seminar, PREX 93 will be on September 2-4, 2011.

Feast Of Corpus Christi

2011-06-26T06:35:00.013+08:00

While the parish celebrates the solemnity of Corpus Christi annually, this year was the first time that a procession in honor of the Body and Blood of Christ happened. Led by Fr. Luke, and ably assisted by the lay ministers, the caretakers of the Holy Eucharist, the short procession wended its way around some areas of the parish right after the 6AM Sunday mass. Though it was raining for most of the week, last Sunday's procession was held under an overcast sky and a cool breeze but without the rain. It was participated in by mostly by those who attended the 6AM mass.

Fifty-Two Confirmed in SLRP

2011-06-12T09:09:00.017+08:00

By Ate Leila Vicente
Catechetical Ministry

Pentecost Sunday was made more special for 52 young parishioners who underwent three consecutive Saturdays of intensive catechetical instructions in May. They all received the Sacrament of Confirmation from Bishop Antonio Tobias, affirming their Catholic faith and committing themselves to becoming soldiers in Christ’s mission to live and spread the Gospel.

As additional preparation, all candidates submitted themselves to the Sacrament of Confession the day before Confirmation while their parents and guardians spent the same morning for Recollection under the combined guidance of Sr. Pilar SRA, Sr. Salve, DM and Sr. Juliana, ASC with members of the Catechetical Ministry serving as workshop facilitators. The theme of the Recollection centered on the “the role of parents as shepherds of their own children” and the critical role they play in building their Christian faith. From questions raised in these workshops, the parents expressed their wish for further catechetical instructions on the Catholic faith. This was valuable learning point for the Ministry to include adult catechism classes in the coming school year.

The church was filled to the rafters, leaving hardly any seat available for other parishioners regularly attending the 10am Mass. Despite the big number of confirmants, the rites were generally orderly. As they were called to march down the aisle towards the altar, their ninongs and ninangs quickly stood side by side with their respective inaanak walking solemnly in procession towards Bishop Tobias who also gave a special dispensation to Fr. Luke to assist in administering the Sacrament. SLRP’s Grand Choir provided the liturgical music.

A simple buffet lunch was served for the Bishop by members of the Catechetical Ministry with assistance from members of the Mother Butler’s Guild and the Parish Pastoral Council.

Of these 52 candidates, 4 young ladies received the Sacrament of Communion for the first time during Saturday’s anticipated Mass. They were joined by a young 9 year old girl who missed receiving her First Communion earlier. Again, all received further instructions on the Sacrament of Communion.

The growing cadre of young adults being confirmed each year at SLRP is a testament to the Catechetical Ministry’s important role in helping spread the faith and grow its membership from among the residents of the surrounding community. This is a call for more members to join the Ministry to help actualize its mission: make each parishioner a catechist and help bring Christ to the community.

Five Young Ladies Receive Their First Holy Communion

2011-06-11T08:08:00.011+08:00

On June 11, five young ladies received the Sacrament of Communion for the first time during Saturday’s anticipated Mass. After completing their basic catechism and getting instructions on the Sacrament, they finally received the body and blood of Christ in Holy Communion. They were Mary Joyce V. Magpusao, Aira D. Mamawag, Fia Mari M. Montemayor, Jenelyn Faith M. Montemayor and Mikaela Marie D. Simbre.

SLRP Youth Formation: This is the Day!

2011-06-04T10:55:00.018+08:00

By Alisa Ortonio, 15

YF Participant

I set foot in Lucban, Quezon for the first time last June 4 2011. It was truly a day to remember. As I attended mass weeks before the said date, Fr. Luke gave several reminders about the activity before he ended the mass. At first, I honestly didn’t mind what he was saying but when he mentioned that there will be an upcoming youth event which was the yearly “youth camp”, I was all ears. It caught my attention because I really wanted to join the youth camp since I started serving the parish years ago. I wasn’t able to join the previous youth camps because my friends from MAS told me that I could only join the camp when I turned 15 years. Now that I was old enough, I didn’t hesitate to sign up for it. I was hyped up and I just couldn’t wait for the event to happen.

The other youth in the Parish Youth Ministry were very sociable and fun to be with. They gave me a warm welcome as I joined the group. Unfortunately, some of the youth who signed up for the camp could not afford to pay the fee. So, we thought of ways to raise funds for the group - we offered car wash services, collected recyclables and solicited cash donations from people who were kind enough to donate. Everything went well because we did everything together, with the guidance and help of our dear coordinator, Ate Cora.

The night before we left for Lucban, Father Luke gave his talk. It really inspired me to be more realistic in my view of life. I learned a lot from his talk which I know will help me now and in the future. As he was finishing his talk, my heart was pounding knowing that I only had a few more hours to wait before we would leave for Lucban.

The next day we started the trip by praying the rosary. We stopped at a gasoline station for bathroom break and to buy whatever provisions we needed. We played games inside the bus and it really made me laugh so hard.

Kamay ni Hesus was so beautiful and solemn. I was amazed when I saw the enormous statue of Jesus Christ. To appreciate the place more, we had to climb up the long and steep stairs while doing the Stations of the Cross. It took us some time before we reached the top. The weather kept changing but we didn’t let it stop us from what we wanted to achieve, which was to reach the statue at the top of the hill. When we got to the top, I thought that it was all worth it because the view was very rewarding.

After being soaked in the rain, everyone was so excited to swim so we went straight to the resort where we were to spend the rest of the day. Most of us were eager to swim as soon as we saw the tempting pools. The water was freezing cold! We also had games that made us laugh non-stop because of the jokers in the group. We swam a little bit more then went home and ended the day with a prayer with Fr. Luke.

June 4 2011 was truly an extraordinary day for me and for all the rest who participated in the event. We were given the chance to make our friendship stronger and to build new ones as well. It made my first ever youth camp memorable. For me, it was one of the best days of Summer 2011. I really learned a lot from the experience. I am thankful because this experience helped me grow more as an individual. I learned to be more patient, humble and sociable. Most importantly I learned that if I do everything with my faith in God, anything is possible.

SLRP Youth Formation: O 'Tara Na

2011-06-04T08:26:00.000+08:00

By Ellen Bautista
YF Participant

WOW!

'Yan ang bukod-tanging salitang nasabi ko nang marating namin ang Kamay ni Hesus sa may Lucban, Quezon. Alam kong 'di sapat ang napakaikling salitang 'yon para maipahayag ko ang aking pagkamangha sa lugar na 'yon. Talaga namang words are not enough to express my amazement nang makarating kami roon.

Alas singko ng umaga ng June 4, 2011 nang magsimula kaming bumiyahe patungong Lucban, Quezon. Kasama ang 46 pang mga kabataan, labis akong namangha sa magagandang tanawing aming nakita. Naging masaya ang aming paglalakbay 'di lamang dahil sa mga nakita naming 'yon, kundi dahil na rin sa masisiglang diwa ng bawa’t isa. At matapos nga ang mahigit 3 oras na biyahe ay narating din namin ang bayan ng Lucban at tumuloy sa Barangay Tinamnan kung saan naroroon ang Kamay ni Hesus. Doon ay inakyat namin ang 295 na baitang ng burol kung saan matatagpuan ang mga naggagandahang life-size figure na nagrerepresenta ng 14 stations of the cross at doon humihinto't nagdarasal. Matapos akyatin ang burol na 'yon ay natunton din namin sa wakas ang napakalaking istatwa ni Hesus na may taas na 50 talampakan at sinasabing pangatlo sa pinakamalalaki sa buong mundo. Tampok din dito ang simbahang tinatawag na “Kamay ni Hesus healing church” kung saan ipinagdiriwang ang mga healing mass na pinamumunuan ni Fr. Joey Faller.

Tunay ngang naging sulit na sulit ang paglalakbay naming 'yon, paglalakbay na naging paraan upang alalahanin ang naging matuwid na buhay at mga paghihirap ni Hesus bilang tao. At kasabay nito ay ang pagkakaroon ng mas malawak pang pang-unawa sa kakayahan naming mga kabataaang bigyang kabuluhan ang bawa’t paglalakbay na aming tinatahak.

SLRP Youth Formation: This is the Day!

2011-06-04T07:40:00.003+08:00

By Therese Althea Tamayo, 16

Youth Participant

Planning an outing for a big group is not easy. More so as I happened to belong to the core group that planned it. We had to meet several times to make sure that the outing would be a success. Planning the games, groupings and activities took a lot of time that meetings sometimes extended late into the night, but all of it was fun.

As the big day came, all were excited. Everyone was very busy taking pictures, fixing their things and chatting with one another inside the bus. The trip was long but we had games along the way. Kamay ni Hesus in Lucban Quezon was very beautiful. One could see several statues and beautiful structures like the Garden of Eden. When we started the first activity, The Way of the Cross, the weather was sunny. We could feel the heat on our skin and sweat dripped on our faces. When we got to the top, it suddenly rained, drenching all of us. I couldn’t believe how suddenly the weather changed! This experience of going uphill in such a beautiful place was memorable especially when we stood under the big statue of Jesus with his arms stretched, sending a message that He is open to all of us.

After the mini mountain climbing in Kamay ni Hesus, we went to a resort called Batis Aramin. It was also a very nice resort with many swimming pools to choose from. Everyone enjoyed swimming and exploring the place but one of the most exciting events was the games. I really liked the game “Picture-picture” (a game where we acted a certain scenario). I literally laughed out loud(Lol)! Each group tried their best to present the scenes. The judges had a hard time choosing the winner because all the contestants were really very good. All were cooperative in the games; they all tried their best and applied all sorts of strategies. It was so heart warming to see smiles on their faces.

We all worked hard for this event, we offered our time, talent and efforts and seeing everyone so happy made it all worth the difficult tasks we went through. In this outing, my circle of friends grew as I met participants who I came to know better. As the day ended, I thanked the Lord for that wonderful day, for all the people who made it beautiful and for all the people who helped us. It is a memory that will be with me forever and a gift that is priceless.

I’m very lucky that I am one of those whom God called to serve Him. I will strive to continue to offer my life to God and serve Him to the best of my ability. Serving the Lord is time well spent. The outing served as a good venue to know my fellow youth in the parish. Hopefully this experience can bind us together to form closer relationships and face whatever tasks we need to do in the future.

SLRP Youth Formation: Kaya Natin 'to

2011-06-03T09:30:00.014+08:00

By Ate Cora Pangyarihan

SLRP PYM Coordinator

Barely a month before June 3, the youth of San Lorenzo busied themselves again for yet another tedious task — preparation for the recently held Youth Camp at Kamay ni Hesus in Lucban, Quezon. This included raising P30,000 for the projected expenses. Luckily for them, classes had not yet opened, so, almost everyday, groups of five or more trooped to parishioners’ houses to pick-up recyclables, sort them and sell them to raise some money. They also ventured into washing cars.

Weeks before the Formation and Youth Camp, I can honestly say that, being with these young men and women, they, who persevered under the heat of the sun and gathered recyclables while getting wet in the rain, had already started their formation. They were being formed, in more ways than one – through perseverance, hard work, cooperation, unity, the value of money, teamwork, responsibility and generosity. And all of these paid off! They raised more or less P8,000 — a big amount that helped meet the P30,000, aside from the donations and payments.

I am very proud of them because they persevered and they worked very hard. In the end they got their reward. With Father Luke opening the Youth Camp and blessing them as they travelled to and returned from Lucban, with the youth advisers who were our parents for the day, with the trekking up the 290-or-so steps to reach the summit of Kamay ni Hesus, to the multiplication of food that was more than enough for everyone, to the teambuilding activities at Batis Aramin Resort, it was the culmination of a beautiful summer formation for the youth. What better reward could anyone ask for?

Flores de Mayo Ends Mary’s Month

2011-05-28T17:56:00.018+08:00

By Ate Leila Vicente—Catechetical Ministry

It was the 28th of May, the last Saturday of the month and though the rains poured relentlessly throughout the day, people were hoping against hope that somehow the sky would clear up. It did not.

Nonetheless, the parish workers came with flowers and floral foam to deck up the carroza hoping that the rains would stop in time for the Marian procession that evening. Dr. Alice Go and her husband had the carroza towed to the nearest vulcanizing shop to have its tires inflated. Kuya Danny tested the generator and prepared the four sulos of the carroza. The day before, another rainy day, Ate Shirley Ruiz put up the arch at the side of the altar and came loaded with white flowers and greens and proceeded to create a most lovely arch, befitting the beautiful statue of the Blessed Mother. By 5:00PM, the rains continued to pour and Kuya Cesar decided to invoke Plan B—the procession will be confined inside the church to be followed by the floral offering.

Notwithstanding the weather, the sagalas came, all 62 of them, some with consorts. Everyone was in church for the anticipated mass. Just before the mass ended, given the instructions by Fr. Luke that “lalabas ang procession”, the lay ministers and some parishioners scrambled to prepare the carroza for the procession. Mama Mary would not let the weather rain on her parade. And indeed the show went on.

It was a beautiful procession headed by the altar servers, eight young children from the Marian catechism class holding AVE MARIA placards prepared by Kuya Vic and Ate Cristy Vianzon, followed by the sagalas & consorts, all coifed and dressed to the nines. Mama Mary’s carroza brought up the rear. The elderly stayed in the church, waiting for its return. Despite the foreboding rain, the procession wended its way through most of the areas of the parish. When the procession finally reached the church, a long procession of flower-bearing girls and boys, ladies and gents, some on wheelchairs, laid their offerings before the Blessed Virgin. Mary received her floral crown from Ate Kate Geronimo and Ate Roseann Garcia while Ate Cora
Pangyarihan sang the Memorare. It was very touching! The Flores de Mayo ended with a prayer and final blessing by Fr. Luke.

Soon after, the arch and Mary’s statue became an instant ‘tourist’ destination as hordes of sagalas, their families and other parishioners surrounded the Virgin for their photo ops. The frenzy ended with light sandwiches and snacks. It was another eventful evening at SLRP.

Alay Lakad - Pilgrimage to Antipolo

2011-05-13T00:20:00.010+08:00

Last Friday, May 13, was the start of this year's Alay Lakad kay Maria, the Youth's annual pilgrimage to Antipolo. But this time there was a break from tradition as the walk started from the EDSA Shrine instead of from the parish itself. All participants converged in Ortigas with those coming from the parish being transported to Ortigas courtesy of Germalin Enterprises, the Zenits and some PPC members.

At 8 o'clock on that Friday night, and with the heavens overcast, the organizers were very pleased to see more than a hundred participants, the largest participation so far of pilgrims in this annual event. After the briefing conducted by the PYM, headed by Ate Cora Pangyarihan, Father Luke gave the blessing to all before the participants boarded their vehicles for the ride to EDSA Shrine.

The procession was underway at a little past 10PM, wended its way through Ortigas Ave all the way up to the Cathedral of Antipolo. Along the way, the participants stopped at each of the 20 stations representing the mysteries of the rosary - from the Joyful mysteries, to the Mysteries of the Light, to the Sorrowful mysteries and finally the Glorious mysteries. At each of the stations, a ministry led in the recitation of the rosary. After a 7-hour walk, the pilgrims, tired, hungry, sweating and with bodies aching, reached the cathedral at about 5AM on Saturday morning. This allowed them just a little less than an hour to rest, take a quick catnap and prepare for the 6AM mass which the parish sponsored. Various worship ministries served during the mass which was presided by Father Luke. These were the altar servers, lectors and commentator, lay ministers and the music ministry.

The pilgrimage ended with a hearty breakfast of lugaw followed by a souvenir picture. With the full support of Fr. Luke, the PPC, the PYM and the various ministries, it was a success. Hopefully, next year's pilgrimage will even be a bigger one.

SLRP Holds Soledad Procession

2011-04-22T09:45:00.010+08:00

This year's Holy week activities saw the parish being introduced to the Soledad, a solemn procession depicting Mary's search for her crucified Son. This procession immediately followed the Santo Entierro procession. For the SLRP community, the parishioners were eager to join as this was something new for them, something to deepen further their devotion. The LOM spearheaded this year's initial inclusion of the Soledad.

The procession wound its way around Tierra Verde 1 subdivision, with three families offering their homes as kubols where Mary would stop to look for her Son. In the first kubol, the scene depicted the youth, immersed in their "sinful" activities - drugs, alcohol, playing computer games, partying, etc. The second kubol showed married couples engaged in gambling and drinking. In the third kubol, the senior citizens and the old folks were seen gathered together in a "home for the aged" - too old to do much, pre-occupied with their own needs for attention, medication and companionship.

In all of these kubols, Mama Mary would stop and ask "Were you there when they crucified my Son?" to which all groups replied they have not. Then the search continues until Mary reaches the place where she sees the empty cross with only the nails and the crown of thorns at its feet. Here is where she is "meets" her Son or, rather, the painful reminders of what her Son went through.

This is the prelude to the Salubong where Mary, after her search, finally meets her Son, the resurrected Christ, on Easter Sunday.

SLRP Youth Successfully Holds Senakulo 2011

2011-04-20T10:05:00.007+08:00

In the evening of Holy Wednesday, after the 630 pm mass, the parish youth staged a senakulo at the church grounds, a re-enactment of the passion of our Lord. Under the direction of Ate Cora Pangyarihan and with the help of Ate Kate Geronimo, Eman de Guzman and Roseanne Garcia, the youth willingly took up the challenge thrown at them by the PPC head and the youth advisers to make the Senakulo a meaningful and memorable experience. They did not disappoint. From the costumes, to the props, to the individuals manning the lights & sounds, to the performance itself, everyone did their bit to make the Senakulo a success. They proved that determination, hard work & a lot of heart combined with their creative talent always wins.

SLRP Pays Tribute To The Graduates of 2010-11

2011-04-10T10:07:00.014+08:00

By Ate Cora Pangyarihan, PYM Coordinator

This year, Father Luke, together with the PPC, started a tradition of paying tribute to special people on the second Sunday of each month. For the month of April, SLRP paid tribute to the graduates of S.Y. 2010-11, including those who passed the Board/Bar Exams as well as those who got their post-graduate degrees.

A special mass was held last April 10 specially to honor these graduates. It began with the traditional march of the graduates five minutes before the Mass as each of the thirteen college graduates and board passers lined up to be presented to the congregation one by one. Proud parents, friends, and fellow parishioners applauded these achievers as their names were called.

Before the Mass ended, they were again presented as they held their lighted candles and stood before the altar. Father Luke, together with the parishioners, prayed over them and wished them well on their new journey in life. With the Grand Choir sharing their God-given talents, who wouldn't feel special that particular day! After the mass, pictures were taken beside the life-sized standee of a graduate at the church entrance.

The celebration did not end there. The SLRP Youth, the program organizers for this special tribute, led the graduates to the Multipurpose Hall for a light snack and a Career Development Talk by our special guest Mr. Arnold David, a veteran Human Resource speaker, who discussed the job market and gave the graduates some good advice and tips. The program ended with tokens for everyone and a new outlook for the graduates as a new chapter in their journey begins.

Visita Iglesia 2011 - A Lenten Pilgrimage

2011-04-09T10:06:00.034+08:00

By Ate Bel Geronimo - PPC

What better way to prepare for the Lenten season than to go on a Lenten Pilgrimage. This is exactly what Fr. Luke Dobles had in mind when he initiated plans for a Visita Iglesia with the objective of instilling a spirit of prayer and penance during this Lenten season as well as promoting oneness among the members of the SLRP community. It would be the first time that the parish would embark on a big activity like this one.

The plan was set in motion in the February 2011 PPC meeting and with the full support of the Parish Pastoral Council, the Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion was tasked to spearhead the activity. The Visita Iglesia was then scheduled on Saturday, April 9, 2011 and the itinerary was identified – Our Lady of the Pillar in Alaminos, Cathedral of St. Paul the Hermit in San Pablo City, Church of San Bartolome Apostol in Nagcarlan, Church of St. John the Baptist in Liliw, St. Maria Magdalena Parish in Magdalena, Church of San Pedro de Alcantara in Pakil, all in Laguna, and the Church of San Ildefonso in Tanay, Rizal. Also included in the itinerary was the Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery, the one and only underground cemetery in the Philippines.

One hundred forty-seven participants – of varying age groups, parishioners and pastoral workers alike and even guests from other parishes – joined and were accommodated in three tourist buses. Before departure, Fr. Luke boarded each bus and gave his blessing. On the bus, the trip started with the community praying of the Holy Rosary. A video show of all the church destinations and a short background or history of the churches and their patron saints was presented as an introduction to the places to be visited. To break the monotony of the long travel, there were games and prizes for all, and lots of bonding as well.

The main activities in the churches started with a mass at Our Lady of the Pillar in Alaminos, Laguna and the Community Way of the Cross with the 14 stations divided among the seven churches. Participants also spent some time with their own personal prayer and adoration. The church of St. John the Baptist in Liliw, Laguna graciously offered the use of their auditorium space where the group could take lunch. A photo session was allowed at every stop to record each visit.

It was not only a time of prayer but also a time to appreciate the beauty and antiquity of churches built during the Spanish period. One will note the different styles of architecture and the influence of the Franciscan and Augustinian friars in the design of the structures. Through time, these churches had undergone reconstructions and renovations but were still able to retain their original identity. One will also marvel at the exterior of the churches with façades made either of sand, stone, brick or adobe blocks; the retablos at the altar with their ornate designs; the church pulpit which was a common feature inside the churches and where the priests used to deliver their sermons, and the tall bell towers. Notable was the relic of Our Lady of Turumba in Pakil, the bloodstains of our revolutionary hero Emilio Jacinto in Magdalena, the San Ildefonso Church, the second oldest church in Tanay and already considered a National Cultural Treasure in the Colonial Churches category with its finely carved 200-year old Stations of the Cross, the underground cemetery and its niches where Spanish priests and high officials were buried and which served as a hideout for our revolutionary patriots.

To be able to manage a big group and to visit several places in a span of 15 hours was indeed a feat. Even Fr. Luke made sure that he was able to be with everyone as he hopped from one bus to another. And despite the unforeseen delays caused by traffic, accidents along the way, overlap with other visiting groups, weather changes, everything proceeded smoothly with the flexibility and adjustments made to strictly adhere to the time table originally planned. Everyone was safely home in SLRP as scheduled.

Here are some feedback and comments from some of the participants:

From what I have observed, the Visita Iglesia was a success. As for me, I felt closer to God. I also saw that for everyone this occasion served its purpose for the Lenten season. - Ate Sol Adre, MBG

Ang ganda ng mga simbahan! Sana maulit next year. - Ate Evelyn de Guia, MBG

It was a nice and wonderful experience seeing the Spanish Churches. - Mrs. Danielle Languido, CFC

The Visita Iglesia held last April 9, 2011 was a very fulfilling experience for our family. It was our first time as a family to join a parish activity like this one, and we enjoyed it very much. It was a very well planned activity and the outcome was very systematic and well organized. We also witnessed and experienced as how united the parishioners were. A successful activity like this one should be repeated again next year and our family will surely be present again. - Lagtapon Family, St. Dominic IV

I find the pilgrimage very fruitful and worth recommending. I admired your Logistics-very organized. And to think that you were monitoring a big group, everything ran smoothly. Kudos to your group! God Bless! - Mrs. Joyce Singson, Guest

It was a great experience. Besides that, it gave inspiration for spiritual growth and bonding. Thanks to the SLRP organizers. - Bro. Nguyen Khoa, Dehon Brothers

Excellent! Lots of bonding. – Ate Lulu Visaya, LECOM

Last April 9 Visita Iglesia was the best pilgrimage that I had undertaken. Everything about it was perfect. Congratulations to Fr. Luke, the organizers, the parishioners of San Lorenzo for this once in a lifetime event. - Ms. Marissa Ampil, Tierra Bella

Worth remembering. Once in a lifetime pilgrimage with co-pastoral workers and parishioners. I felt the blessings and indulgences. – Ate Ruby Almazan, Education Commission/BRC

Maayos – pero parang mas matagal yung biyahe kaysa sa yung oras sa simbahan. Talagang na-feel ko yung spirit of prayer. - Ate Claudia Valenzuela, BRC

It was a tiring but an exhilarating experience. More than a spiritual exercise, it was a cultural trip bringing to mind the richness of our culture, as it show cased the beautiful architecture and artwork used by the Spaniards to catechize the Filipinos. Hopefully, the Visita Iglesia further deepened our faith and appreciation of Filipino art. When is the next one? - Leila Vicente

First of all, congratulations to all those who partook in this brilliant idea and most specially to the energetic and conscientious men and women who were truly inspired by the Holy Spirit to plan it so meticulously! While on the trip I can't help but think back to the Team who planned it all. You are truly God sent! It must have been very arduous to organize this endeavor but you pulled it off with flying colors. Thank you so much for this memorable trip. People like you have made it easier for all of us who joined in the Visita to exprience a deepening of our faith.
May you all be continously inspired and motivated to move all of the parishoners to a single commitment in finding HIM in all things! - Lydia Vicente

The Visita Iglesia held last April 9, 2011 was a very fulfilling experience for our family. It was our first time as a family to join a parish activity like this one, and we enjoyed it very much. It was a very well planned activity and the outcome was very systematic and well organized. We also witnessed and experienced how united the parishioners were. A successful activity like this one should be repeated next year and our family will surely be present again. -
Enalynn Lagtapon

Maganda! I have never been to so many churches. Marami nagsasabi na sana maulit. And for 500 pesos it was cheap! - Buddy Lising

Maganda! MAGANDA! - Ate Fely

It was an exercise on patience, humility & community. People really took care of each other. -
Fr. Luke

Maganda! Ang ayos-ayos. Tinanong ko nga si Father kung papaano naorganize ang ganun. -
Tess Collado

Bravo! Job well done. Thank you so much to the team. That was so well organized. We look forward for the one next year. God bless you all. - Vic Vianzon

... masaya po ako at talagang marami po akong natutunan na ganon pala kasaya kapag magsama-sama po ang lahat sa Pilgrimage - Raffy Vargas

... ang masasabi ko lang sa oras na iyon ay talagang napakasaya ko po at lahat ng mga taong kasama sa oras na iyon lahat po sila napakabait po talaga lalo na si Father Luke. Marami po talagang akong natutunan. - Grace Salem

...Ang naranasan ko ay masasaya kaming lahat lalo na pag nag-picture taking ang grupo at sa oras ng tanghalian ay sama-sama kaming lahat na kumakain at nagbibigayan ng kanya kanyang baon parang isang buong pamilya. - Emelina Balanial

... Truly the gift of the Holy Spirit sustained us all the way. I was a witness that day to the Lord's promise that when two or three are gathered in His name, there He is in the midst of them. VIVA SLRP and kudos to our shepherd Fr. Luke for a job well done! - Dr. Rose Garcia

Fr. Luke Celebrates His 16th Sacerdotal Anniversary

2011-04-04T06:34:00.018+08:00

April 3, Sunday, on the eve of his 16th Sacerdotal anniversary, Fr. Luke took time out from his busy schedule to be with the people of Cruz Compound for a simple lunch and fellowship. Through the efforts of Ate Claudia Valenzuela and the PPC, this became a reality.

The celebration began with a special community prayer for Fr. Luke during the 10:00AM Mass. Representatives from various sectors of the parish - the elderly, married couples, parish worker, parish member and the young, offered their special intentions for Fr. Luke's continued well-being and spiritual stewardship of the parish. In turn, he made his silent wishes as he blew the five candles of the representatives.

At 11:30AM, Fr. Luke and some members of the PPC, trooped to Cruz Compound for an afternoon of togetherness, fun and enjoyment. The afternoon began with Father Luke having lunch with families and representatives of Cruz Compound in a native barrio fiesta setting where the food was served on banana leaves and everyone using their hands.

After the hearty lunch, there was a Getting-to-know-Fr. Luke game where the residents participated in. Several multiple choice questions were asked of the contestants about Fr. Luke. Through this fun activity, the people had a chance to get to know more about their parish priest and provided the warm-up to the more serious getting-to-know-Cruz Compound pulong pulong that transpired.

In this short afternoon, Fr. Luke and the PPC were able to get the pulse of the people - their concerns, their aspirations, their thoughts. In turn Fr. Luke imparted the church's concern for the welfare of those in Cruz Compound and the services that the church can offer to them. He hoped that this will be the start of a deeper evangelization in Cruz Compound.

Mr. Cruz, the patriarch of the Cruz clan, gave his response and in it, he expressed his thoughts on the need for more participication of Cruz Compound in the activities of the church and that we all needed each other for the spiritual development of the community. He also asked the support of all to make this a reality.

The afternoon ended with the closing prayer led by Ate Claudia and the blessing from Fr. Luke.

SLRP Joins Rally Against the RH Bill

2011-03-28T05:39:00.009+08:00

Following the call of the Catholic Church to show solidarity amongst the faithful in sending a strong message opposing the proposed RH Bill, a 50-man delegation from SLRP joined thousands of other Catholics in a rally held last March 25 at the Luneta.

Led by Father Luke and the SSDM, the parish was well represented, with both the young and old, the lay and the religious, officers and workers joining the rally. The delegation left the parish in the early afternoon of March 25 and arrived at the Luneta well ahead of the start of the official activities at 4PM. The group found their place among the many delegations that went to the rally. They settled themselves amongst crowd, rested, took some photos and mingled with the other participants but most importantly, they added their voices to the growing clamor to repudiate the RH Bill. It was a day of unity as the people expressed their voices in upholding life and saying no to the RH Bill. The rally ended with the Holy Mass officiated by the good cardinal of Manila, Gaudencio Rosales.

Tribute To Life

2011-03-27T05:41:00.009+08:00

By: Ate Kate Geronimo, LECOM

Amidst the noise of the world, one small voice yearns to be heard. It is a choice many easily shut out and very often taken for granted. It is the voice of life, the voice that some do not wish to hear.

Last March 12, a special mass was celebrated in honor of babies less than a year old, expectant mothers and childless couples who want to have children of their own. This was organized by the members of the Lectors and Commentators (LECOM) Ministry.

Prior to the mass, a video clip was shown on the importance of life and how babies are cruelly aborted. One could also see how many teen pregnancies occur, how many babies were aborted, and how the RH bill, if approved, may affect the country.

The special “guests” for this occasion( which included babies less than a year old, expectant mothers, and couples hoping to have babies) had their pictures taken in front of the church under a make-shift photo booth. A video presentation giving tribute to life was also played thanking parents who made the right choice and had that tiny voice of life be heard. Afterwards, Father Luke blessed the “special guests” and each was given a token of appreciation.

It was a wonderful sight to behold these people, proudly standing in front of the congregation as living testimonies to life – the babies with their mothers, the expectant women, and the couples eagerly awaiting one to call their own. They have made their choice and allowed that little voice to be heard.

As Father Luke had mentioned during the mass: “Aren’t we glad that our mothers gave birth to us?”

2000 Hail Marys - A Monthly Devotion of the Legion of Mary

2011-03-24T20:37:00.013+08:00

Every second Saturday of the month, the church becomes busy with the prayerful devotion of the parish's Legion of Mary organization. The members of the LOM gather in church after the 6:00AM Mass to pray 2000 Hail Marys as their pledge and devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Old and young members alike take turns reciting the Rosary. This practice started late last year and continues to this day.

For those who are not initiated, it is a daunting experience to spend practically the whole day praying the Rosary 40 times. But for the devotees, this is their labor of love, a sacrifice and an offering that comes from the heart.

Divine Mercy Shrine - A Pilgrimage

2011-03-22T06:27:00.005+08:00

By Ate Ruby Almazan, Evangelization Ministry

The members of the Apostleship of Prayer, headed by Dra. Lou Sarmiento, together with some members of the Block Rosary Crusade, Legion of Mary, Daughters of Mary Sisters and other SLRP parishioners, went to the National Shrine of the DIVINE MERCY at Sta. Rosa 1, Marilao, Bulacan last March 22, 2011.

This is a yearly activity of the AP - to visit holy churches especially during the Lenten season. This year, it was to the DIVINE MERCY Shrine. Led by Ate Linda Duritan, the group meditated and prayed on the fourteen stations of the Way of the Cross. It was followed by deep reflective prayers in front of the Tabernacle at the Main Altar inside the Church.

After completing the spiritual exercise, the group decided to have a hearty breakfast, merienda and lunch, rolled into one,'Brunch'. Picture-taking, souvenir-buying, completed the visit to the shrine. Although it was only a half-day "mini-pilgrimage”, there was 'complete indulgence' for it made the group closer to one another and above all CLOSER TO GOD!

SLRP Visits the Correctional Institute For Women

2011-03-19T06:55:00.005+08:00

By Ate Heidi Temporal, SSDM

Last March 19, the SLRP parishioners visited with the inmates of the Correctional Institute for Women (CIW) in Mandaluyong City as part of the prison apostolate of the parish. This second visit, again spearheaded by the Social Services and Development Ministry, was fully supported by Fr Luke, the PPC and the Restorative Justice Ministry of the diocese.

This time, 43 joined the apostolate together with Sister Charisse who helped organize the trip. Everyone had to attend the orientation given three days prior to the event. For some, it was their second visit and therefore their second orientation.

Donations from generous donors totalled P21,000, which covered a major portion of the cost of the food and gifts for 100 inmates. They were grateful for the hour given to them to interact with us visitors, sharing with us their blessings as they related the conditions they faced in the CIW.

For our part, seeing the grateful aura of the inmates gave us a feeling of deep fulfillment, that somehow we were able to bring Christ to them in our own small way, that by empathizing with them we shared in Christ’s own offering of Himself.

The celebration of the Holy Eucharist presided by Father Luke capped the visit and everyone was heartened by the message of hope in his homily.

On arrival in the parish, a meeting was held to allow for feedback and evaluation of the visit before partaking of a hearty lunch. Once again the SSDM and the organizers thank all who had given their support not only during the visit itself but even during the preparation and the culminating activities of the mission.

SLRP Holds Youth Forum

2011-03-14T10:37:00.001+08:00

Last March 11, barely a few days into the Lenten Season, the Parish Pastoral Council and the Parish Youth Ministry, together with about 40 members of the youth and some parish elders, gathered around a bonfire for an evening of open discussion revolving mainly on the aspirations of the young people of the parish.

The Youth Forum, as it was called, was an offshoot of post-mortem evaluation of the participation of the youth in parish activities and projects. As an important and growing segment of the parish, the youth in the recent past had been involved in a number of activities and projects where their participation is needed. This has given rise to conflicting commitments and priorities among the different youth groups.

With this year as the Year of the Youth, this forum is a timely response to the Youth's clamor to give focus to their needs as a group and as a vital arm of the parish. With the joint efforts of the PPC, our parish priest and the youth leaders, this youth forum became a reality. The youth were given their day to be heard. They eagerly and candidly expressed their concerns, needs and aspirations which the parish elders appreciatively listened to.

After a long evening of open discussions, the gathering ended at close to midnight with a prayer of hope for the youth and their future in the parish continue to prosper.

Lenten Area Way of the Cross

2011-03-12T07:02:00.005+08:00

In SLRP, the celebration of Lent began with the yearly Area Way of the Cross on March 12, the first Saturday immediately following Ash Wednesday. It is the parish's way of inviting all parishioners to participate in this season of sacrifice and prayer. Fourteen homes in Cruz Compound and Dona Faustina Village 1 were chosen to host each of the 14 stations in a symbolic re-enactment of Jesus passion, death and resurrection. In each station, there are prayers recited and a short narrative of the particular station is read to the congregation and after which Fr. Luke blesses the people. The parishioners journeyed on to the next station until all fourteen stations were visited. The Area Way of the Cross ends with the celebration of the Holy Mass followed by simple fellowship.

This continues on every Saturday of Lent as it is repeated in the other areas of the parish. The following areas followed after: St Dominic 4 last March 19 and UP Professors Subd last March 26. On April 2, it will be Tierra Verde 1 & 2 and finally, it will be the Friends of Sanlo's turn on April 16.

Seventeen Children Receive First Communion

2011-02-24T07:01:00.009+08:00

By Ate Virgie Santos, Catechetical Ministry

February 20, 2011 was a special Sunday for 17 Sunday School students.

For more than two years, 9 boys and 8 girls, ages ranging from 9 to 11 years old, prepared to receive their First Communion attending Sunday School classes on Catholic beliefs and basic prayers, moral s, and Christian behaviour from volunteer Sunday School catechists.

Hurdling Sunday School classes was not the only requirement. Each one had to submit their baptismal certificate to the parish office allowing them to receive two Sacraments: the Sacrament of Reconciliation or Confession and the Sacrament of First Communion. For those not yet baptized at the time of their First Communion, they were required to submit their birth certificate and a ‘no report certificate” from nearby parishes to allow them to receive three Sacraments: Baptism, First Confession and First Communion. All the first Communicants complied but a few Level 2 students could not and thus their First Communion was deferred.

The young boys came in white shirts and dark pants while the young girls wore white dresses and white veils crowned with white flowers. They led the procession at the start of the Holy Mass officiated by Fr. Luke, carrying lighted candles, and walking slowly towards their assigned pews as parents and parishioners clicked cameras to record the special event. At the time of Communion, each one came up the altar and individually knelt on a special pew flanked by lighted candles to receive for the first time the Holy Eucharist. It was a solemn event.

Parents beamed proudly at the sight of their children receiving the Holy Eucharist. Younger children in attendance envied their ates and kuyas. “Gusto ko rin mag-suot ng belo,” said one girl.

Weeks prior to this Sunday, catechists Ate Virgie, Ate Christy, and Ate Susan patiently prepared the young children for their first Confession and the rites of the Holy Eucharist. Extra Saturday classes were held to ensure the children were prepared spiritually. No less than Fr. Luke practiced the young Communicants on the rites a day before receiving the Sacrament. He also heard all their First Confessions a week before, each one ending their Confession silently, praying their penance at the Adoration Chapel.

At the same time the children were saying their first Confession, parents attended a short Recollection under Sr. Pilar, SRA and Sr. Ding, DM who instructed them on the significance of their children’s First Communion. Ate Virgie talked briefly on natural family planning and why the Church rejects the RH bill.

Parishioners are invited to send their children to SLRP’s Sunday School if attending non-sectarian schools. Sunday School classes this school year wind up on March 13.

Tribute to Ruby and Beyond

2011-02-22T06:25:00.011+08:00

By : Cecile Lumba

February, known as the “Month of Hearts”, was indeed a perfect time as SLRP gave tribute to married couples of the parish who have celebrated forty years (Ruby) of married life and beyond.

Last February 13, 2011, a special mass was held honoring fifteen wonderful couples followed by a simple reception and program at the SLRP’s multi-purpose hall. They were treated to a nice buffet lunch and were serenaded by the CFC Choir which played the theme songs of these couples. The honorees were introduced and their secrets on how they were able to make their marriage last were revealed for all to learn from. They also reenacted their wedding day by signing the renewal of marriage vows followed by the ceremonial giving to each other a slice of the wedding cake. The day was remarkably a memorable one and ended with everyone in ecstatic mood. We salute these couples whose marriages had grown and deepened over time and have triumphantly overcome trials and hardships along the way.

At the same time, all married couples were blessed by Fr. Luke in all of the masses last Feb 12-13 and renewed their marriage vows in a simple ceremony.

This special event was spearheaded by Kuya Peter and Ate Lina Tamayo, Family Life Ministry Coordinators, with the support of the Community of Couples for Christ (CFC-FFL) which sponsored this event. The Pastoral Parish Council officers including the Ministry of Ushers and Greeters also contributed and extended their support to the success of the event. Being able to bring joy to the honorees gave us a sense of elation and delight and allowed us to give back glory to HIM who made all these possible.

Bishop Tobias Ordains Two New Priests

2011-01-21T13:14:00.016+08:00

January 19, 2011 was a blessed day for San Lorenzo Ruiz Parish. The parish church was again chosen for the ordination of the two Vietnamese deacons, Rev. Phong Tran and Rev. Quang Tran both from the Order of the Priests of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (SCJ). This is the first sacerdotal ordination in the history of the young parish of San Lorenzo Ruiz.

The two deacons were ordained in solemn rites and ceremony officiated by His Most Reverend Antonio R. Tobias, D.D., Bishop of Novaliches. Joining in the celebration were 33 priests of different nationalities of the SCJ order, including our own parish priest, Fr. Luke Dobles, who prepared and assisted in the liturgy.

The families of the deacons came all the way from Vietnam to witness and participate in this special occasion. Seminarians were assigned as altar servers and one as a lector. An SLRP lay lector, Kuya Firms Gagute, served that day together with a psalmist from the invited choir, Bagong Silang San Roque choir.

Everyone was invited to join the lunch sponsored by the SCJ through the coordination of Ate Josie Cruz as requested by Fr. Vincent Herimanto, SCJ superior and Fr. Nonong Cabaluna,SCJ.

Many thanks to the Mother Butler Guild and to the Ministry of Ushers and Greeters for their assistance.

God bless Rev. Fr. Phong Tran, SCJ and Rev. Fr. Quang Tran, SCJ as we from SANLO pray for their continued dedication and love for their chosen vocation. They will be assigned to do missionary work back in Vietnam.

SLRP Honors the Sto. Nino with a Procession

2011-01-21T13:12:00.021+08:00

Now on its third year, the procession in honor of the Sto. Nino is the parish's thanksgiving to God for giving us the Christ child. Just like a newborn baby, this annual procession allows the Sto Nino to venture out of the confines of the church for a short walk around the parish and get some sunshine, according to Father Luke.

Amidst gray skies, a pleasantly cool breeze of January air and the rhythmic ati-atihan sound from a portable sound system, the procession wend its way through more areas of the parish this time around. This was the first time that parishioners of Cruz Compound and Dona Faustina I were blessed with the presence of the Sto Nino as it went through their areas. Marchers, especially the children, were given candies and cold drinks by homeowners along the route of the procession. It is nice to see that the number of Sto Nino images continues to grow every year.

SLRP Honors The Octogens

2011-01-11T15:42:00.002+08:00

Last Sunday, January 9 was a very special day in the life of San Lorenzo Ruiz Parish. After more than two decades of existence, this is the first time that the octogenarians, fondly called the Octogens, were honored in a very special way by the parish. This was conceptualized by Father Luke and executed by the PPC and the Worship Ministry as a simple yet meaningful expression of thanksgiving to those 80-year olds and above for all the sacrifices, hardwork and contributions to making the parish what it is today.

The day began with a special 10:00am mass for the octogenarians. There was a special prayer for them and, in a departure from traditional practice, they were given communion in their reserved seats. After the mass, they were treated to a special merienda ( of pancit for a longer life) served by the altar servers, MBG and the SSDM. Ate Cora Pangyarihan, Ate Kate Geronimo, Kuya Nico Garcia and Kuya Anjo Santiago (on keyboards) serenaded the honorees with the songs the old folks were familiar with. They all went home with their individual souvenir of a mug containing a small San Lorenzo figurine and Enervon energy drink.

Long live the Octogens and may we see you in one of the parish's special activities in the future....a Centenarians' Day perhaps?

Benefactors' Overflowing Generosity Spreads To More Families

2010-12-31T15:40:00.013+08:00

This year's Christmas giving project was a bigger success comparing it to last year's similar endeavor. A total of 263 families benefited from the project, well over the 160 recipient families of last year. In a marked departure from previous years where parishioners picked from a Christmas tree the items they will be donating, this year the parish listed out the items that were thought to be what one would like to find in a Christmas basket. It included spaghetti, spaghetti sauce, rice, cheese, powdered milk, powdered juice, noodles, sausages, corned beef, coffee, sugar and sardines. Cash was also accepted. All these were made ready for distribution on the morning of Christmas Eve through the hardworking men and women of the Social Services and Development Ministry of the parish.

Through the generosity of the parishioners, more families were given the chance to experience Christ's kindness and warmth this Yuletide season.

A Different Kind of Panunuluyan

2010-12-31T15:37:00.010+08:00

After the 9-day Simbang Gabi novena masses, the faithful of San Lorenzo finally saw the completion of the traditional Panunuluyan. Taking on a different approach, the Parish Youth Ministry made this year's Panunuluyan into a 9-part telenovela which was shown in the dawn masses. Each day of the novena a short 5-minute film clip was shown depicting the challenges faced by the youth in their search for meaning and purpose in their lives paralleling Joseph and Mary's search for a "room in the inn" where the child Jesus was to be born.

The Panunuluyan culminated with a live interpretative presentation of Joseph and Mary's journey of finding the manger where the Light of the World was born.

Libreng Gupit sa Pasko

2010-12-23T12:50:00.012+08:00

In the spirit of giving this Yuletide season, SLRP held its first Christmas outreach by organizing a haircut day for the marginalized children of the parish. Dubbed "Libreng Gupit 2010", hair salons and barber shops in the parish came together and donated the services of some of its hairdressers and barbers for free last December 22. With its theme "Pagbubuklod para sa Kalinisan at Kabanalan ng Kabataan", this was the Alliance of Salon Owners & Staff way of thanking the parish and its parishioners for their support and patronage throughout the years.

The project was participated in by 10-14 Salon, CCN Saloon, Jocyn Hair & Beauty Expert, Roberto's Barber Shop and Jean Romanos. For the parish's end, it was spearheaded by Ate Bing Lising together with the support of the Catechetical Ministry of SLRP.

Fr. Luke Celebrates His 53rd Birthday

2010-12-21T06:20:00.000+08:00

Fr. Luke celebrated his 53rd birthday last December 21 with his parishioners. It was during the simbang gabi mass that the parishioners, led by Ate Lina Feliciano, offered him a prayer for his continued good health of mind, body and spirit. After the mass there was a simple almusalang bayan of pandesal, lugaw and hot coffee for everyone.

Simbang Gabi

2010-12-17T09:15:00.002+08:00

SIMBANG GABI is one of the longest and most popular among the Filipino traditions in the country. It is when Catholic churches across the nation start to open their doors shortly before the break of dawn to welcome the faithful to the Simbang Gabi mass. Simbang Gabi or Mass at Dawn is a nine-day novena to the Blessed Mother. The novena begins December 16 as early as 4 in the morning and culminates with the “Misa de Gallo” on Christmas Eve to welcome the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ. In some churches, the panuluyan is reenacted showing the effort of Joseph and Mary to find a suitable birthplace.

ORIGIN

Simbang Gabi traces its roots in Mexico when, in 1587, the Pope granted the petition of Fray Diego de Soria, prior of the convent of San Agustin Acolman, to hold Christmas mass outdoors because the Church could not accommodate the huge number of people attending the evening mass.

During the old times, the pre-dawn mass is announced by the ringing of the church bells. In some rural areas, an hour before the start of Simbang Gabi, a brass band plays Christmas music all over the town. It is also believed that parish priests would go far knocking on doors to wake and gather the faithful to attend the misa de gallo. Farmers as well as fishermen wake up early to hear the Gospel before going to their work and ask for the grace of good harvest.

SIMBANG GABI NOW AND THEN

The changing of times does not break the preservation of celebrating Simbang Gabi although it is celebrated in new ways. Still, the tradition of Simbang Gabi continues. Part of it are the colorful lights and lanterns that fill every streets. Beautiful parols are hung in every window. Songs of the season are played everywhere to warm the hearts. Families, friends and even individuals find its way going to the nearest church to attend the nine-day novena. Shortly after the misa de gallo, families gather in their homes to celebrate Noche Buena and feasted on various delicacies like queso de bola, bibingka, puto bungbong, or a drink of salabat or hot chocolate.

SIGNIFICANCE

Simbang Gabi has become one of the most popular traditions in the country. But it is not just a tradition that is celebrated because we need to do so. It is a significant moment not only because it strengthens relationships among family members but also because it is the time where our faith is intensified. This is the time where we mostly feel the presence of the Lord because it is the spiritual preparation for Christmas, the birth of Jesus Christ. It does not matter if one has the stamina to complete the novena or not, what really matters is what is inside the heart. The blessing does not depend on the number of mass attended, but what is important is the disposition of the person who receives the Lord’s blessing.

Source: The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Manila Website

Fr. Luke Blesses the Youth as SLRP Launches the Year of the Youth

2010-12-17T09:13:00.011+08:00

December 16, the start of the traditional Simbang Gabi, marked not only the annual commemoration of National Youth Day by the local church in the Philippines but this year also begins the yearlong program of awareness about the youth and and their importance to the life and activity of the Church. CBCP Episcopal Commission on the Youth Chairman and Legaspi Bishop Joel Baylon said "By our witness, let us help the young in our midst—in our homes, schools, communities, etc.—to find God in their lives and generously answer His call to service and love."

Fr. Luke called all the youth who attended the first simbang gabi masses to the altar and read a brief message from Novaliches Bishop Antonio Tobias exhorting them to walk the way of Christ and be active workers in church activities. He then asked the congregation to join him in praying for the youth and then he gave them his blessing.

SLRP Launches the Ministry of Ushers and Greeters

2010-12-16T10:02:00.007+08:00

On the first day of the Simbang Gabi novena masses for this year, the parish launched the Ministry of Ushers and Greeters (MUG), a new ministry that will help in welcoming and seating parishioners attending liturgical activities, especially the mass. Fr. Luke blessed the new members of the ministry during the mass.

Vicariate Holds Christmas Party

2010-12-04T14:30:00.010+08:00

The Vicariate of San Isidro Labrador, where SLRP belongs, held its Christmas Party this year at the parish hall of this year's host parish, Our Lady of the Anunciation Parish in Mindanao Avenue. There was sizeable representation from the different parishes which included Fr. Nonette Legaspi, the Vicar Forane and parish priest of Jesus, Lord of Divine Mercy Parish, Fr. Madz Lucero of Our Lady of Consolation Parish, Fr. Albert Delvo of San Isidro Labrador Parish and SLRP's Fr. Luke Dobles. The parish priests each gave their Christmas message.

There were group activities which included singing of Christmas songs, games and community dancing led by SLRP. As the evening ended, SLRP representatives gave Fr. Luke a Christmas gift.

The Church Begins A New Liturgical Year

2010-11-29T08:56:00.007+08:00

SLRP marked the new liturgical year last November 27 with the theme Maranatha (Come O Lord). It was also in a simple ceremony during the mass that the advent wreath was blessed and the first candle was lighted to mark the beginning of the four weeks of preparation for the coming of our Lord. With the season of Advent, the Church begins the liturgical year with the end in mind where Christ our King rules over all with justice, peace and harmony.

Maranatha (either מרנא תא; maranâ' thâ' or מרן אתא; maran 'athâ' ) is an Aramaic phrase occurring once only in the New Testament (see Aramaic of Jesus) and also in the Didache which is part of the Apostolic Fathers' collection. It is transliterated into Greek letters rather than translated, and is found at the end of Paul's First Epistle to the Corinthians (1 Cor 16:22) . The NRSV translates it as: "Our Lord, come!" but notes that it could also be translated as: "Our Lord has come"; the NIV translates: "Come, O Lord"; the NAB notes:

"As understood here ("O Lord, come!"), it is a prayer for the early return of Christ. If the Aramaic words are divided differently (Maran atha, "Our Lord has come"), it becomes a credal declaration. The former interpretation is supported by what appears to be a Greek equivalent of this acclamation in Rev 22:20 "Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!""

Taken From Wikipedia

SLRP Remembers the Dead

2010-11-27T08:35:00.000+08:00

This year's month-long remembrance of the dead began with the commemoration of All Saints Day last November 1 with special mass celebrations for the dead. The Worship Ministry, in collaboration with the Parish Youth Ministry, constructed a mini-columbary. Small matchbox-size compartments were overlayed on a black wooden cross. Here the faithful placed the list of their dead relatives and friends and these were prayed over in all masses during the month of November. The mini-columbary was placed inside the church instead of in the Garden of the Resurrection outside the church as was the practice in previous years. On the fourth Sunday of November, when the parish traditionally prays for all those who died and those who celebrate their death anniversaries for the month, all the "columbary" niches were emptied and the lists of the departed relatives were burned in a special ceremony during all masses.

Renewal Of Commitment by Parish Workers

2010-11-22T13:42:00.011+08:00

In a fitting affirmation of Christ as the King of the Universe, SLRP parish workers and parishioners held an overnight vigil and procession in honor last November 20-21. The activities begun with the procession of the Blessed Sacrament from the parish church to the convent of the Sister Adorers of the Blood of Christ immediately after the anticipated mass. Upon arrival and after the opening prayer led by Fr. Luke, the overnight vigil began with the different ministries and organizations in the parish assigned an hour of adoration.

At about 2PM of the following day, the Christ the King procession began its journey through the five different areas of the parish. Led by the altar servers, the different ministries and organizations and the parishioners, the 2-hour procession wend its way through Tierra Verde II, St. Dominic IV, UP Professors Subdivision, Dona Faustina Village I, Cruz Compound and finally through Tierra Verde I. The presentation of the lifesize image of the Christ the King and the Blessed Sacrament to all the areas of the parish as the king of the parish was the focal point of the procession.

After the procession, the parish. led by its PPC Chaircouple, Kuya Cesar and Ate Mayette Tiongson, made its act of consecration to Christ the King. This was followed by the renewal of commitment to serve by the parish workers which was led by Fr. Luke in his role as the parish priest and pastor of SLRP.

Alay kay San Lorenzo

2010-11-04T13:33:00.009+08:00

Alay kay San Lorenzo

by Ate Ruby Almazan

Coordinator, SLRP Education Ministry

O mahal naming San Lorenzo,
Dakilang Patron ng Lahing Pilipino,
Langit ang Siyang pumili,
Upang alagaan Liping Kayumanggi.

Ikaw ang ginawang Tagapamatnubay,
Dito sa aming mahabang Paglalakbay,
Upang Siyang maging Gabay,
At mapanuto n'yaring mga Buhay

Ikaw ay naging Matapat,
Kung manalangin ay maluwat,
Sa Inang Birhen na Maawain,
Sa mga namimintuho't nanalangin.

Katapangan mo'y walang kapantay,
Tiniis pagsubok sa Dakilang Buhay,
Nawika pang, "Makalilibo man mag-uli,
Sariling Buhay ay iaalay lagi."

Kaya naman ipinagkaloob ng Langit,
Tingalain ka, at alayan ng awit
Mga sakripisyo't mga dalit,
Maging daluyan, Grasya ng Langit.

Dito sa lugar na takdang inilayon,
Upang Ikaw ngayon ang aming Patron,
Katuwang sa matinding paghamon,
Dulot ng magulo at makabagong panahon,

Kaisa ka namin sa lungkot at tuwa,
Kasagutan naman sa mga namamanata,
Kaya nga't lagi kaming panatag,
sa panahon ng ligalig at bagabag.

Kaya ngayon sa iyong Kapistahan,
Kabi- kabila ang sayaw at kantahan,
Mainit at masigabong palakpakan,
Larawan ng tuwa't Kasayahan.

Dakila ka O San Lorenzo,
Ipinabubunyi ng mga Pilipino,
Kami ngayon ay Nanalangin,
Pasasalamat namin ay Tanggapin.

PPCRV Called Again To Service

2010-10-26T09:39:00.019+08:00

Barely able to rest after the last poll duty in May of this year, the PPCRV was again called to service as the citizens' arm in the just concluded Synchronized Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections last October 25, 2010. Armed with its hopeful desire for positive political change and its objective determination for a clean and peaceful elections, some 50 or so volunteers gathered at the parish hall before sunrise to, once again, perform their volunteer duty. After the communion service for the volunteers and a hearty breakfast of adobo rice and egg, the volunteers were given their final briefing and precinct assignments just as the first rays of the sun brought in the new day. By quarter of six, the volunteers proceeded to the Culiat High School for active duty.

Upon arrival, the Volunteers Assistance Desk (VAD) was set up with the voters' lists, laptops and precinct directories made ready for the arrival of the electorate. After the courtesy call on the High School Principal, it was time for the Pollwatchers to proceed to their respective precincts to await the formal start of the election.

Soon as the bell sounded at 7 o'clock, the VAD went on full gear as it took on the early morning rush of voters. There were some confusion among the voters as some of them thought they were to vote in the same rooms they voted in during the national elections last May. For some this was so but for many there was a change of classroom. Majority of the voters came during the early morning but was not sustained. By mid-morning there was just the trickle of voters until the close of elections at 3:00PM. Overall, the conduct of the election was peaceful and orderly. Except for isolated cases of voter identity verification, missing voters' names, duplicate voter's name, the voting was generally successful. The voter turnout, at probably less than 30%, was quite low.

To all PPCRV Volunteers, congratulations on another job well done! May our tribe increase and spread to more parishioners. Until the next assignment, you all deserve a pat on the back and a celebration!

For this local election, the PPCRV set up its own unofficial computerized tally count. Soon as the canvassing began and the precinct count underway, the PPCRV did its own parallel canvassing. As each precinct completed its count, the assigned PPCRV pollwatcher got a copy of the voting results and forwarded it to the VAD where a computerized tally count was done. By 10:30PM, the last of the 60 or so precincts' results was entered and the unofficial election result immediately obtained. Here are the unofficial results of the PPCRV count:

BARANGAY CHAIRMAN

1 GARCIA, Jaime Puno 2320
2 BERNARDO, Victor Damaso 1978
3 MANIQUIZ, Rolando Muyot 301
4 MAPANDI, Halil Nuska 64

KAGAWAD

1 ESTEBAN, Diana Perater 4002
2 BONDAD, Rolando Gajudo 3637
3 CUADRA, Eliseo San Miguel 3630
4 ZIPAGAN, Corazon Venturina 3386
5 PAEL, Jose Abagao 3018
6 BALONZO, Jerrylin Jordan 3012
7 DIAZ, Ma. Edelfa dela Cruz 2974
8 DELA PENA, Jenice Ann Camaro 2822
9 TURLA, Ronald Allan Hernaez 2440
10 DAVID, Remedios Pusag 2204
11 SEVIDAL, Melinda Cesar 2018
12 ENCINARES, Lolita Rondolos 1823
13 PASCUA, Salvador Pineda 1805
14 IBRAHIM, Malik Maliga 1755
15 MAKIMKIM, Jose Cristobal 1497
16 BAUTISTA, Renato Roc 1281
17 DUNLUAN, Albert Lagrosas 1234
18 TUDIO, Claro Gomez 732
19 MIRANDILLA, Cezar Gupit 704
20 MANAWIS, Ma. Cecilia Sayan 626
21 SISON, Adora Evangelista 607
22 SALIK, Abdulkahar Mendoza 596
23 DISCAYA, Renato Magalong 525
24 BATISLA-ONG, Lourdes Depallo 521
25 BONDOC, Renato Garcia 504
26 DACARA, Josevidal Curativo 472
27 ISIDRO, Eric Hilario 471
28 MACATIAG, Oscar de Fiesta 421
29 BALCE, Eduardo Jardin 402
30 DOCOT, Virgilio Llorin 399
31 DOLDOLEA, Ernesto Rapada 377
32 CRISOSTOMO, Alfredo Apalin 358
33 PARDO, Gerardo Lausin 333
34 BUMBAUA, Danilo Danao 319
35 MEDIANISTA, Rodrigo Docio 293

PYM Holds Youth Night Special

2010-10-16T22:02:00.008+08:00

Almost a month after the fiesta, it was the the turn of the youth to showcase their skills in singing and dancing. On the evening of October 16, the PYM turned the church into their own musical theater and organized a night of praise and worship through songs and dances. All ministries and organizations where there were youth members participated in the musical extravaganza. There were numbers performed by the different choirs, from the Himig Sanlo Choir to Enzo Choir to the Gospel Choir. There were also choreographed dance numbers as the band belted out their numbers. The PYM of San Isidro Labrador presented an interpretative dance number that was welled applauded by the appreciative audience.

All in all, the night was a bit long but most of the youth went home filled with enjoyment and fulfillment at being given their special night that showcased a different side of SLRP PYM.

PPCRV Call For Volunteers

2010-10-08T09:51:00.014+08:00

If you belong to, serve in or attend mass in the parish of San Lorenzo Ruiz, at least 16 years of age, is fit and want to be counted, kindly click the "Comments" tag on the upper righthand corner of this article and send us the following information:

1. Your Full Name and age
2. Your Address
3. Your Cellphone Number
4. Your landline number
5. Your email address

The next Barangay and Sanggunian Kabataan election is barely two weeks away. As the accredited COMELEC election watchdog, the PPCRV is again being called to duty and help ensure an honest, peaceful and credible election.

Here in Barangay Culiat, of which San Lorenzo Ruiz Parish belongs, the SLRP PPCRV has been tasked to provide this duty of providing volunteers for election duty in pollwatching and voters' assistance. The PPCRV is now looking for volunteers to help man the polling place in the coming election this Monday, October 25, 2010. Your parish needs you in this political exercise.

Soon as we get your reply, we will inform you of the timeline and activities.

SLRP Celebrates Mass at Radio Veritas

2010-09-29T10:01:00.012+08:00

In commemoration of the feast of San Lorenzo Ruiz, which we celebrate every 28th of September, Fr. Luke as shepherd of a parish that bears the name of the first Filipino saint, was invited to celebrate holy mass at Radio Veritas. The mass, which was also attended by some twenty parishioners of SLRP, was celebrated at 12:15pm and was broadcast live nationwide on the Veritas station, 846Khz on the AM Band. It was simultaneously streamed live through the internet. Fr. Luke was assisted by Ates Aida Arines, Bel Geronimo and Lynn Dollente.

SLRP Well Represented at National Laity Week Mass

2010-09-29T10:00:00.009+08:00

Last September 27, Bp. Antonio Tobias, together with representative clergies from the different parishes, led the celebration of the Holy Mass at the Our Lady of Consolation Parish Church in Mira Nila Homes during the opening day of the weeklong National Laity Week activities in the Diocese of Novaliches. Present also was a sizeable congregation representing the lay people from different parishes in the diocese headed by Sis. Lita Macalaguim, the incumbent Chairperson of the Council of the Laity of Novaliches (CLaN).

In his homily, the good bishop emphasized the relevance of the readings (Job 1:6-22) where Job lost everything he possessed - land, animals, and his children, yet he still continued to praise God. Further on, he relates this to the communal togetherness of the early Christian communities, where there was no distinction between matters pertaining to God and matters pertaining to man. He specifically instigated the congregation (especially the laity who serve in church) to be involved in all aspects of human endeavor, particularly the forthcoming political exercise, and not just keep themselves to church activities. The laity must be counted on to give of themselves in the coming elections.

On the part of the SLRP, a large delegation of more than 30 parishioners attended the mass, led by our parish priest, Fr. Luke, our PPC Chaircouple Kuya Cesar and Ate Mayette Tiongson, members of the PPC and the religious. The SLRP Grand Choir sang during the mass.

Vicar Forane Presides Fiesta High Mass

2010-09-29T09:31:00.008+08:00

This year's fiesta high mass was different from fiesta masses celebrated in the past. For one, it was our Vicar Forane, Rev. fr. Nonette Legaspi, parish priest of the Jesus Lord of Divine Mercy parish in Mapaya Village, who presided the mass. Traditionally it is the Bishop of Novaliches.

The mass started with the entrance of the image of our patron San Lorenzo borne by lay ministers representatives with MBG ladies dancing in caracol fashion. This was followed by theprocession of the altar servers, the MOW lectors, the lay ministers and the priest presiders.

In his homily, Fr. Nonette delved on the spirit of the gospel reflecting on the contrast between the poor beggar Zaccheus and the rich man who feasted daily. As much as the message of the parable was implicit on the sins of omission and commission, its specific message centered on the sin of gluttony. As Fr. Nonette expounded on this, he presented the different forms of gluttony, which according to his homily, did not only mean eating too much. Gluttony can also be manifested in our excessive desires and wants which go beyond what we need. He exhorts the faithful to examine themselves and reflect on their lifestyles to see how each and everyone may have indulged in excess. In the end, he counsels all to temper their desires, take only what is needed and share with the less fortunate their extra blessings from the Lord.

After the mass, there was a hearty buffet of street food for one and all to partake in. "Oops! Didn't Fr. Nonette say temper one's desires?" Well maybe it's ok just this time. Happy fiesta everyone.

SLRP Fiesta 2010 Was One Big Family Gathering

2010-09-28T00:43:00.015+08:00

It was a bright sunny morning and a very memorable occasion as the parish celebrated its 23rd fiesta anniversary. Everyone came out in their native Filipino costumes to share with heaven and all the saints this glorious day. Dancing rhythmically the Caracol to the pounding of drums provided by the parish youth, everyone, young and old alike, gyrated their hips and swayed their bodies to the festive ati-atihan sounds as if telling everyone that "this is the day the Lord has made, let us all rejoice and be glad!"

The Caracol procession snaked its way around the parish under the glorious rays of the morning sun. This was followed by the generosity of benevolent parishioners and parish ministries and organizations as they shared local delicacies and kakanin to the famished delight of all participants.

As we looked back to a year ago when Typhoon Ondoy revealed to us nature's destructive power, this day, in contrast, showed God's all loving grandeur and kindness.

SLRP Community Comes Alive on Parish Night

2010-09-28T00:40:00.038+08:00

In the true spirit of bayanihan, the parish workers of SLRP gathered together last September 25 for a night of fun, enjoyment and entertainment. This is the parish' way of rewarding its workers for all the hard work and community building of the past year. Traditionally set for the eve of the parish fiesta, the same occasion marked the one year anniversary of the Ondoy tragedy.

The affair began with the celebration of the mass and the faithful's thanksgiving for all the blessings and graces the parish has been receiving from the Almighty. In most masses during the fiesta weekend, a 5-minute video presentation entitled Ondoy, which was specially prepared by the SLRP Ministry of Mass Media, was shown as a fitting reminder to all of our weaknesses and God's greatness. Fr. Luke, in his fiesta message, underscored the parish resilience and oneness as he recalled the parishioners' spontaneous response to the crisis of a year ago that helped strengthened the parish, physically and spiritually.

After the mass, the fun, pomp and pageantry began. In a 3-hour vaudavillesque extravaganza, the parish workers gave their all as they performed in a variety of musical numbers. Majority of the ministries and organizations counted themselves in as they performed the following: (1) Catechetical Ministry with their swinging dance number to the tune of Sway by Michael Buble, (2) the Junior Legionnaires with their angelic voices and interpretative song rendition, (3) the Block Rosary Crusade, with their dance number to the tune of Every Breath You Take, (4) the Apostleship of Prayer, with their Michael Jackson medley dance number, (5) the Social Services Development Ministry,with their dance number to the tune of Celebration, (6) the Mother Butler Guild, with their grass skirts and graceful bodies dancing to a remix of Pearly Shells-Tiny Bubbles, (7) the Ministry of the Word, with their fastbeat dance number cum fashion show, (8) the Parish Pastoral Council, with their 80s remix dance number of Uptown Girl-Footloose, (9) the Couples For Christ, with their dance number to the tune of Crazy Little Thing called Love, (10) the Hapag-Asa kids, with their song interpretation of Malayo Pa Ang Umaga, (11) the Enzo Choir with their hiphop dance medley, (12) the Himig Sanlo with their dance remix number, and (13) the Lay Ministers with their geisha-inspired interpretation of the song Babae Po Ako.

Two audio video presentations were shown. The repeat showing of Ondoy that started the first half of show and the Parish Youth Ministry video entitled "Does Anybody Hear her?" that started the second half. To entertain the audience during the intermission, there was a magic show by Nap Perez while Fr. Luke's nephew, a special child sang a heartwarming song entitled I'll Never Go.

The winners to the san Lorenzo Ruiz Trivia Contest were also awarded their prizes that night. Each winner went home with a wall clock and a bag of medicines. To add to the excitement and enjoyment, there were lots of door prizes and raffle prizes awarded that evening. All in all, it was a great night of communitarian get together for the parishioners. The level and quality of the performances were definitely a great improvement from two years ago. As the curtains fell that Saturday night and the memories began, I am pretty sure everyone's already looking forward to next year's get together. And as I recall the title of a movie I saw many years ago, I say we'll see each other same time next year. Lights out!

Parish Remembers Ondoy One Year After

2010-09-28T00:15:00.007+08:00

As a fitting remembrance of the fateful event one year ago, the Ministry of Mass Media, through the pastoral guidance of its parish priest, Fr. Luke, prepared a 5-minute audio-video presentation on Ondoy and its impact on our parish. The video captured the helplessness of the parish as flood waters inundated the church and its surroundings. Amidst the devastation wrought by Ondoy, it did not dampen the spirits of the people as they slowly cleaned up the damage caused by the typhoon.

One year after the fury of Ondoy, it was a different fiesta atmosphere that pervaded the parish as it celebrated God's bountiful blessings under clear skies and a festive atmosphere of songs, dances and prayers in thanksgiving. Throughout all masses on September 25 and 26, the video was played in commemoration of a people's resilience, courage and communitarian spirit as they rose from the ruins of the flood to rebuild the SLRP church, God's altar of thanksgiving and togetherness. In Fr. Luke's message in last Sunday's masses, he said and I paraphrase him, "Ondoy brought out the community spirit of the parishioners. Today, we have a new parish, with its ministries and organizations, working to continually build itself, a community helping one another in fraternal brotherhood."

Bishop Tobias Officiates Novena Mass

2010-09-19T14:11:00.005+08:00

By Ate Lina Feliciano

SLRP MBG Coordinator

As part of the 22nd Feast Day Celebration of our Patron Saint, SAN LORENZO RUIZ, a nine-day Novena mass was held in commemoration of his sufferings and martyrdom together with his companions. The 10:00 am Novena Mass started last July 25 and every Sunday thereafter with different ministries, sub-divisions and/or areas assigned as sponsors.

Last September 19, the ninth and final Novena Mass was sponsored by the MOTHER BUTLER GUILD together with some members of the Barangay Council of Culiat. It was officiated by Most Rev. Bishop Antonio Tobias and Rev. Fr. Luke Dobles as co-celebrant.

After the mass, the MBG members had lunch with the good Bishop and Fr. Luke at the Union Village residence of Kuya Tony and Ate Lina Feliciano. The lunch was the through the joint efforts of the host family and some officers of the MBG. Light and lively conversation centered on the coming barangay elections and the importance of the having a unified Catholic vote, though not necessarily through block voting, nor direct endorsement of any particular candidate. They also discussed the value of family relationships, especially the children. The Bishop expressed his desire to see them and had pictures taken with them and the host family.

The MOTHER BUTLER GUILD’s Officers and members together with PPC Coordinators Kuya Cesar and Ate Mayette Tiongson had souvenir photos taken with Bishop Tobias and Fr. Luke.

SLRP Youth Camp - A Success

2010-09-01T15:15:00.009+08:00

Last August 21, the 2010 Youth Camp of SLRP was held amidst a gloomy and overcast day. There were more than 60 participants, both from the parish and facilitators (faccies)from the Diocese of Novaliches and the parish of San Isidro Labrador who attended the one day affair. The camp began with the early morning trek from SLRP parish church to the camp ground at the Servants of Charity covered court in Centerville Subdivision, about two kilometers away.

Upon arrival, the participants were divided into small groups for the morning fun games (polvoron eating, amazing race) and teamworking activity (banner making). These served to put the youth at ease before the serious affairs later on. This took the first two hours of the morning after which breakfast of lugaw and juice was served the participants.

At about 9:30AM, the official Youth Camp began with the opening remarks of our parish priest, Fr. Luke and the inspirational message of PPC Chaircouple Kuya Cesar and Ate Mayette Tiongson. The rest of the morning was a chance for the youth groups to polish their cheers and present these to the body. The morning session ended with the announcement of the winners for the Best Banner and Best Cheer.

Nearing lunchtime, Kuya Al Yap, PYM adviser, gave his talk of encouragement for the participants. He mentioned the plans that were being lined up for the remainder of the year, particularly on the Youth Night for the coming fiesta celebration. This was followed after lunch by Kuya July, a member of the Diocesan Youth Ministry, who gave a talk on the plans and directions for the youth of the diocese.

In the afternoon, there were bonding activities spearheaded by the iLead teams from the vicariate and the diocese levels. Culminating the afternoon activities was the Holy Mass officiated by Fr. Luke. ending the formal session was the closing talk of Ate Mavic Montanez, another PYM adviser. Capping the event, all the participants, facilitators and organizers relaxed through singing songs of praise and dancing the night away with music provided by SLRP's own youth band, led by Kuya Mon Montanez.

PPC Hosts Dinner for Father Luke on Parish Priest Day

2010-08-09T13:30:00.016+08:00

Last Saturday, August 7, amidst the cold and wet evening of torrential rains from typhoon Ester, the PPC hosted dinner for Father Luke in celebration of Parish Priest Day. It was a novel dinner that warmed the hearts of everyone in attendance as the group ate at Mang Jimmy's, an offbeat eatery inside Balara's recreational park at the back of UP Diliman campus. According to word-of-mouth stories, the place serves delicious home-cooked food at very affordable prices and a regular hang-out of varsity basketball players, students, daily wage earners and the hoi polloi.

The group arrived at the venue almost 9pm already and dinner was served immediately, thanks to Ate Josie who went early that day and had the venue reserved. Food fare for the evening consisted of bulalo, grilled marlin (in butter sauce), inihaw na pusit, beefsteak, grilled pork chop, sauteed vegetables and leche flan for desert. But what was most enjoyable were the carefree and free-flowing conversations, stories, jokes and laughter about many topics that had nothing to do with parish work. One of the most hilarious discussions centered on a puzzle about beef and pork. The question was "Bakit ang sabaw ng bulalo ay mas masebo kaysa sa baboy na ang damo naman ang kinakain ng baka 'di gaya ng baboy na lahat kinakain?" The debate went on for a while with no definite conclusion. No one cared for the answer as long as each went home fully satiated.

The dinner ended with the group giving Father Luke a small token gift of a t-shirt, a paperweight and a small pillow.

Senior Citizens Hold Special Day

2010-08-06T11:43:00.007+08:00

By Aida Arines

Last July 31, Fr, Luke initiated a Senior Citizens Day which started with a Holy Mass at 6:30 am. There were about 30-40 senior citizens who attended the mass together with the regular church goers. Fr. Luke blessed everyone with holy water after the mass as he went around the massgoers.

A hearty breakfast meal of delicious macaroni soup, pandesal and coffee courtesy of Fr. Luke, was served by Fr. Luke himself. Ate Thelsa Tongol brought lugaw and Ate Lulu Visaya brought bananas too. Some of the pastoral workers helped serve the food as the elders enjoyed their meal.

For their entertainment, Ate Cora Pangyarihan serenaded them with songs of yesteryears accompanied by Anjo Santiago on keyboards. Both are from the Gospel choir. The senior citizens loved the music as they themselves joined in the singing of our popular Filipino love song “Dahil Sa ‘Yo.

The activity included bible/faith sharing facilitated by Ate Lulu Visaya, a senior citizen herself. There was also a film showing of the works/paintings of the late artist, Joey Velasco, with Fr. Luke explaining the meaning and relevance of his works.

Towards the end, Ate Fe Abarado shared her time by taking blood pressure readings of those who wished. She also distributed pedometers to the participants for healthy walking purposes.

This activity is just the start for them to enjoy their senior years as they eagerly await Fr. Luke's announcement of their next scheduled get together.

It's so good to see them all smile and enjoy one another's company!!!!

Aug 15 - Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

2010-08-03T12:12:00.002+08:00

The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary into Heaven at the end of her earthly life is a defined dogma of the Catholic Church. The Feast of the Assumption, celebrated every year on August 15, is a very old feast of the Church, celebrated universally by the sixth century. It commemorates the death of Mary and her bodily assumption into Heaven, before her body could begin to decay--a foretaste of our own bodily resurrection at the end of time. Because it signifies the Blessed Virgin's passing into eternal life, it is the most important of all Marian feasts and a holy day of obligation.

The feast was originally celebrated in the East, where it is known as the Feast of the Dormition, a word which means "the falling asleep." The earliest printed reference to the belief that Mary's body was assumed into Heaven dates from the fourth century, in a document entitled "The Falling Asleep of the Holy Mother of God." The document recounts, in the words of the Apostle John, to whom Christ on the Cross had entrusted the care of His mother, the death, laying in the tomb, and assumption of the Blessed Virgin. Tradition places Mary's death at Jerusalem or at Ephesus, where John was living.

On November 1, 1950, Pope Pius XII, exercising papal infallibility, declared in "Munificentissimus Deus" that it is a dogma of the Church "that the Immaculate Mother of God, the ever Virgin Mary, having completed the course of her earthly life, was assumed body and soul into heavenly glory." As a dogma, the Assumption is a required belief of all Catholics; anyone who publicly dissents from the dogma, Pope Pius declared, "has fallen away completely from the divine and Catholic Faith."

While the Eastern Orthodox believe in the Dormition, they object to the papal definition of the dogma, seeing it as unnecessary, since belief in Mary's bodily assumption, tradition holds, goes back to apostolic times.

Scott P. Richert

Catholicism Guide

SLRP Attends Vicariate Orientation

2010-08-03T09:07:00.013+08:00

by Kuya Al Yap

Last Thursday, July 29, amidst strong rains and flash floods, the Vicariate of San Isidro Labrador held its vicariate orientation as part of the overall diocesan initiative to streamline the organization and communication within the diocese, its vicariates and parishes.

The orientation was conducted by Rev. Fr. Tony Labiao, the Vicar General for Pastoral Affairs of the Diocese of Novaliches. He gave an overview of what a parish is and its interrelation with the larger communities such as the vicariate and the diocese itself. He also expounded on the direction of the diocese in creating and fostering more effective and parish-attuned pastoral teams. Foremost in Fr. Tony's presentation was the focus of the diocesan pastoral setup on the creation and sustenance of Basic Ecclesial Communities (BECs) throughout the diocese. He also emphasized the diocesan direction-setting role in guiding the pastoral projects and activities of the parishes. He then presented the various recommended organizational setup (ministries and organizations) for the vicariate and pastoral teams.

A workshop immediately followed after Fr. Tony's presentation. Breaking up the participants from the different parishes in the vicariate into eight groups ( the Worship Ministry, Educational Ministry, Youth Ministry, Family Life Ministry, Temporalities, Social Services Ministry, BEC and PPC Leaders), they were asked to look at their particular ministry, discuss its current status and identify programs and projects that can be jointly pursued in line with the vicariate pastoral objectives. A representative from each ministry was asked to present these to the body after which they were submitted to the diocese for consolidation and reporting.

It was a successful and productive meeting for all representatives of the different parishes in the vicariate, especially with the full support and presence of all of the parish priests. PPC officers and ministry representatives from the parishes of Our Lady of the Annunciation, Jesus Lord of Divine Mercy, San Isidro Labrador, San Lorenzo Ruiz and the host, Our Lady of Consolation were in attendance.

SLRP Holds First Deaconate Ordination in the Parish

2010-08-03T08:50:00.001+08:00

by Ate Karen Yap

On July 24, 2010, the parish of San Lorenzo experienced a first in its history. Two members of the Priests of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (SCJ) Bro. John Phong Qouc Tran and Bro. Joseph Quang Tran were ordained as deacons in a ceremony presided by his Most Rev. Antonio R. Tobias, D.D., bishop of Novaliches. He was assisted by Fr. Benedito Machado, SCJ head of its Theologate here in Tierra Verde and Fr. Vincentius Sri Herimanto, SCJ, Formator assigned in their Formation Center in Cagayan de Oro.

Reverends John and Joseph are both from the Diocese of Nha Trang in Vietnam and finished their studies here in the Philippines. Their parents and other relatives came all the way from Vietnam to share in the happy event.

The occasion was also graced by the presence of around 25 other priests from SCJ and other religious orders who concelebrated at the mass. Our parish priest, Fr. Luke Dobles, took on the role of acolyte for the bishop. Fr. Nonong Cabaluna, SCJ, served as photographer. Seminarians of the Dehon House here in Tierra Verde joined members from the SLRP Gospel Choir to complete the liturgy.

Being a first in its history, preparations by the parish to make the event as successful and meaningful as possible were intense, thanks to the efforts of Kuya Cesar Tiongson, Ate Josie Cruz and Ate Aida Arines who worked closely with Fr. Nonong and Fr. Luke. After the ceremony, the congregation was invited to a sumptuous lunch at the multipurpose hall.