St. of the Month of March: St. Joseph
March 19 * Spouse of Mary
PRAYER TO ST. JOSEPH
Oh, St. Joseph,
whose protection is so great, so prompt, so strong,
before the throne of God,
I place in you all my interests and desires.
Oh, St. Joseph,
do assist me by your powerful intercession,
and obtain for me from your Divine Son
all spiritual blessings, through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
So that, having engaged here below your heavenly power,
I may offer my thanksgiving and homage to the most Loving of Fathers.
Oh, St. Joseph,
I never weary contemplating you and Jesus asleep in your arms;
I dare not approach while He reposes near your heart.
Press Him in my name and kiss His fine Head for me and
Ask Him to return the Kiss when I draw my dying breath.
St. Joseph, Patron of departed souls - pray for me.
Amen.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
How To Be Happy
Here are five things that research has shown can improve happiness:
1. Be grateful -- People who were asked to write letters of gratitude to people who had helped them in some way reported a lasting increase in happiness -- over weeks and even months -- after implementing the habit. Even when people wrote letters but never delivered them to the addressee, they still reported feeling better afterwards.
2. Be optimistic -- People were asked to visualize an ideal future and describe the image in a journal entry. After doing this for a few weeks, these people too reported increased feelings of well-being.
3. Count your blessings -- People who practice writing down three good things that have happened to them every week show significant boosts in happiness. The act of focusing on the positive helps people remember reasons to be glad.
4. Use your strengths -- Another study asked people to identify their greatest strengths, and then to try to use these strengths in new ways. This habit, too, seems to heighten happiness.
5. Commit acts of kindness -- It turns out helping others also helps ourselves. People who donate time or money to charity, or who altruistically assist people in need, report improvements in their own happiness.
ref: google
1. Be grateful -- People who were asked to write letters of gratitude to people who had helped them in some way reported a lasting increase in happiness -- over weeks and even months -- after implementing the habit. Even when people wrote letters but never delivered them to the addressee, they still reported feeling better afterwards.
2. Be optimistic -- People were asked to visualize an ideal future and describe the image in a journal entry. After doing this for a few weeks, these people too reported increased feelings of well-being.
3. Count your blessings -- People who practice writing down three good things that have happened to them every week show significant boosts in happiness. The act of focusing on the positive helps people remember reasons to be glad.
4. Use your strengths -- Another study asked people to identify their greatest strengths, and then to try to use these strengths in new ways. This habit, too, seems to heighten happiness.
5. Commit acts of kindness -- It turns out helping others also helps ourselves. People who donate time or money to charity, or who altruistically assist people in need, report improvements in their own happiness.
ref: google
The Right Attitude & Communication
The Right Attitude Comes First
How could there be such differing opinions on the same topic? Because there was a difference in attitude. An attitude makes all the difference. The development of a positive attitude is the first conscious step toward becoming an effective leader. Successful leadership cannot be constructed without this crucial building block. Check out the following attitude axioms suggested by the words and actions of Joshua and Caleb:
1. Our attitude determines our approach to life.
2. Our attitude determines our relationship with people.
3. Our attitude is often the only difference between success and failure.
4. Our attitude can turn problems into blessings.
5. Our attitude is not automatically good just because we belong to God.
- The Maxwell Leadership Bible
______________________________________________________________________________
Make Communication Clear
The success of your marriage, job and personal relationship all depend greatly on communication. People will not follow you if they don’t know what you want or where you are going. You can be more and more effective communicator if you follow four truths:
1. Simplify your message: The key to effective communication is simplicity. Forget about impressing people with big words or complex sentences. If you want to connect with people, keep it simple.
2. Set the person: As you communicate with people whether individuals or groups- ask yourself these questions: Who is my audience? What are their questions? What needs to be accomplished?
3. Show the truth: Credibility precedes great communication. Believe in what you say. Then live what you say. There is no greater credibility than conviction in action.
4. Seek a response: As you communicate, never forget that the goal of all communication is action. Every time you speak to people, give them something to feel, something to remember, and something to do.
- The 12 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader
How could there be such differing opinions on the same topic? Because there was a difference in attitude. An attitude makes all the difference. The development of a positive attitude is the first conscious step toward becoming an effective leader. Successful leadership cannot be constructed without this crucial building block. Check out the following attitude axioms suggested by the words and actions of Joshua and Caleb:
1. Our attitude determines our approach to life.
2. Our attitude determines our relationship with people.
3. Our attitude is often the only difference between success and failure.
4. Our attitude can turn problems into blessings.
5. Our attitude is not automatically good just because we belong to God.
- The Maxwell Leadership Bible
______________________________________________________________________________
Make Communication Clear
The success of your marriage, job and personal relationship all depend greatly on communication. People will not follow you if they don’t know what you want or where you are going. You can be more and more effective communicator if you follow four truths:
1. Simplify your message: The key to effective communication is simplicity. Forget about impressing people with big words or complex sentences. If you want to connect with people, keep it simple.
2. Set the person: As you communicate with people whether individuals or groups- ask yourself these questions: Who is my audience? What are their questions? What needs to be accomplished?
3. Show the truth: Credibility precedes great communication. Believe in what you say. Then live what you say. There is no greater credibility than conviction in action.
4. Seek a response: As you communicate, never forget that the goal of all communication is action. Every time you speak to people, give them something to feel, something to remember, and something to do.
- The 12 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader
IMPORTANT NOTES ON POLITICS:
Participation of Catholics in Politics:
a.) Pursuit of the common good;
b.) Promotion of justice;
c.) Spirit of service;
d.) Preferential love for the poor; and
e.) Empowering people
(PCP II,351)
God’s Call To Mission in Politics
“ There is a duty for the Christian catholic to transform politics by the Gospel. The Church, God’s people, must evangelize politics. God’s call to the church is to preach the integral Gospel, the Gospel with all it’s social dimensions. “
(CBCB Pastoral Exhortation, 1997 Phil. Politics, 26)
Vocation To Politics
“ Those with a talent for the difficult yet noble act of politics…should prepare themselves for it, and forgetting their own convenience and material interests, they should engage in political activity. “
(Vatican II, GS 75)
a.) Pursuit of the common good;
b.) Promotion of justice;
c.) Spirit of service;
d.) Preferential love for the poor; and
e.) Empowering people
(PCP II,351)
God’s Call To Mission in Politics
“ There is a duty for the Christian catholic to transform politics by the Gospel. The Church, God’s people, must evangelize politics. God’s call to the church is to preach the integral Gospel, the Gospel with all it’s social dimensions. “
(CBCB Pastoral Exhortation, 1997 Phil. Politics, 26)
Vocation To Politics
“ Those with a talent for the difficult yet noble act of politics…should prepare themselves for it, and forgetting their own convenience and material interests, they should engage in political activity. “
(Vatican II, GS 75)
EDITORIAL
Making Good Governance A Political Stance
Political season is here time and again. People know it’s Christmas time when caroling is playing in the air. Kids find hint that yuletide moment sets in when sparkling decors and figure of Santa Claus are visible everywhere. Election time is not quite different from Christmas occasion. Campaign jingles replace caroling. Posters in every corner reflect colorful sights just like Christmas decors. And in behalf of Santa, there goes the smiling candidate with hands waving and bringing best promises to change the world!
Christmas is usually associated with time of giving. It is universally known as season of love. The theme for every election is always to bring change to the lives of the people. Yes, politicians envision to eradicating poverty. Some want to eliminate corruption. And others commit to bring in real justice and sound economic development. Well, all of these, in one way or another, are nobly touching the realm of good governance.
Good governance has been so misused, abused and overused political propaganda. Thus, it is not surprising to note that people no longer appreciate its essence. It may be that the whole reality of good governance is not fulfilled, or it may be good to one of its aspect, but it is omitting some other important parts. Hence, it is rendering good governance either raw or overcooked in effect. How is good governance treated as it is? Is it too rigid to be a political stance thereby making it impossible to realize?
For a good governance to make it real and authentic, it must be anchored on the 5 pillars based on the Catholic Social Teachings. These pillars are said to be mutually interdependent to each other. What are these so-called pillars of good governance?
Authority and Governance. Pope John Paul II, in his message during 2003 World Day of Peace states that authority and governance must meet the almost universal demand for participatory ways of exercising political authority and for transparency and accountability at every level of public life. The rise of party list system suggests better ways of coming up with participative decision-making from among the marginalized sectors. However, it must be seriously guarded as a way to expand the political influence in the Congress.
Common Good. The famous John XXIII once declared that common good is the sum total of social conditions which allow people, either as groups or individuals, to reach their fulfillment more fully and more easily. Whenever the elected candidate begins his term, happy are those who belong to his party, and unfortunate to those who did not support him during election. Where is common good? It is vested to the chosen few and deprived from the suffering majority!
Integral Humanism. Paul VI in Populorum Progressio asserts that development cannot be limited to mere economic growth. It further upholds that in order to be authentic, it must be complete: integral, that is, it has to promote the good every person and of the whole person. In order to get positive impression from the international community, political leaders take pride in their flagship projects at the expense of social condition and Christian values. Political patrons support candidates now and people will pay later. Promotion of good, as Paul VI would have it, goes to the kingmakers unfortunately.
Solidarity. John Paul II in his Encyclical Letter, Sollicitudo Rei Socialis, says that the effective aspect of solidarity is not a feeling of vague compassion or shallow distress at the misfortunes of others, but it is a firm and persevering determination to commit oneself to the common good of others. Why on earth is it happening that if election is about to begin, sudden infra development is visible everywhere? Determination and commitment to help others is not seasonal and conditional. It emanates from the unselfish nature of showing real concern for others regardless of time and party one may belong.
Justice. In justice, the government is duty bound to honor the set of rights listed out in the social teachings of the Church. According to John Paul II, Redemptor Hominis, the respect of this right is indicative sign of humankind’s authentic progress in any regime, in any society, system or milieu. Justice has intrinsic values when it is in place. It generates confidence to the governed, investors and international community as a whole. How can a community be categorized as progressive when it is ravaged by massacre or killings by shadowy group?
Good governance has so much to give if given the chance to run its course. If taken as a political stance by whoever will commit and persist to uphold it, life’s expectation can be positive and full of hope. And every community will find its better place under the sun.
Just like a Christmas wish being whispered by everyone, in this election time goes also a similar wish…MAY WE HAVE A PEACEFUL ELECTION AND A WISE VOTATION!!!
Making Good Governance A Political Stance
Political season is here time and again. People know it’s Christmas time when caroling is playing in the air. Kids find hint that yuletide moment sets in when sparkling decors and figure of Santa Claus are visible everywhere. Election time is not quite different from Christmas occasion. Campaign jingles replace caroling. Posters in every corner reflect colorful sights just like Christmas decors. And in behalf of Santa, there goes the smiling candidate with hands waving and bringing best promises to change the world!
Christmas is usually associated with time of giving. It is universally known as season of love. The theme for every election is always to bring change to the lives of the people. Yes, politicians envision to eradicating poverty. Some want to eliminate corruption. And others commit to bring in real justice and sound economic development. Well, all of these, in one way or another, are nobly touching the realm of good governance.
Good governance has been so misused, abused and overused political propaganda. Thus, it is not surprising to note that people no longer appreciate its essence. It may be that the whole reality of good governance is not fulfilled, or it may be good to one of its aspect, but it is omitting some other important parts. Hence, it is rendering good governance either raw or overcooked in effect. How is good governance treated as it is? Is it too rigid to be a political stance thereby making it impossible to realize?
For a good governance to make it real and authentic, it must be anchored on the 5 pillars based on the Catholic Social Teachings. These pillars are said to be mutually interdependent to each other. What are these so-called pillars of good governance?
Authority and Governance. Pope John Paul II, in his message during 2003 World Day of Peace states that authority and governance must meet the almost universal demand for participatory ways of exercising political authority and for transparency and accountability at every level of public life. The rise of party list system suggests better ways of coming up with participative decision-making from among the marginalized sectors. However, it must be seriously guarded as a way to expand the political influence in the Congress.
Common Good. The famous John XXIII once declared that common good is the sum total of social conditions which allow people, either as groups or individuals, to reach their fulfillment more fully and more easily. Whenever the elected candidate begins his term, happy are those who belong to his party, and unfortunate to those who did not support him during election. Where is common good? It is vested to the chosen few and deprived from the suffering majority!
Integral Humanism. Paul VI in Populorum Progressio asserts that development cannot be limited to mere economic growth. It further upholds that in order to be authentic, it must be complete: integral, that is, it has to promote the good every person and of the whole person. In order to get positive impression from the international community, political leaders take pride in their flagship projects at the expense of social condition and Christian values. Political patrons support candidates now and people will pay later. Promotion of good, as Paul VI would have it, goes to the kingmakers unfortunately.
Solidarity. John Paul II in his Encyclical Letter, Sollicitudo Rei Socialis, says that the effective aspect of solidarity is not a feeling of vague compassion or shallow distress at the misfortunes of others, but it is a firm and persevering determination to commit oneself to the common good of others. Why on earth is it happening that if election is about to begin, sudden infra development is visible everywhere? Determination and commitment to help others is not seasonal and conditional. It emanates from the unselfish nature of showing real concern for others regardless of time and party one may belong.
Justice. In justice, the government is duty bound to honor the set of rights listed out in the social teachings of the Church. According to John Paul II, Redemptor Hominis, the respect of this right is indicative sign of humankind’s authentic progress in any regime, in any society, system or milieu. Justice has intrinsic values when it is in place. It generates confidence to the governed, investors and international community as a whole. How can a community be categorized as progressive when it is ravaged by massacre or killings by shadowy group?
Good governance has so much to give if given the chance to run its course. If taken as a political stance by whoever will commit and persist to uphold it, life’s expectation can be positive and full of hope. And every community will find its better place under the sun.
Just like a Christmas wish being whispered by everyone, in this election time goes also a similar wish…MAY WE HAVE A PEACEFUL ELECTION AND A WISE VOTATION!!!
TAIZE...a channel for peace and dialogue
by: Nor Asiah Madale Adilao
Muslim Coordinator, Silsilah Forum-Davao
Much has been done to foster solidarity and understanding among different religious and cultural groups in our society. Various inter religious movements arose; more and more religious leaders came out and converged for one common cause- dialogue.
In my years of involvement in interreligious gathering, I realized that I am just one of the few ordinary people who dream for a peaceful world, the world shared by many who come from various culture and orientation. I said “few” because out of the countless number of people from different faiths and overwhelming number of initiatives for dialogue and peace, there is a greater number of individual who remain deaf to the call for unity, refuse to take part of it, and continue to be blinded by their deep seated biases and prejudices.
My journey brought me to a personal encounter with the Taize Pilgrimage of Trust on Earth, an in depth community prayer and reflection led by the brothers based in France. The said activity was conducted last February 3-7, 2010 in Don Bosco, Makati, Philippines. The Mindanao-Sulu Pastoral Conference-Youth Secretariate invited me to co-facilitate the activity on Interreligious Dialogue and represented the Muslim community for my sharing on dialogue in Davao City context. Having seen Catholic priest, a sister from the Indigenous group and myself as a strong follower of Islam, who shared the same aspiration for peace and dialogue, still I am amazed how these people of different orientations become real partners in peace building.
The two day experiences marked another step higher in growing and understanding the essence of dialogue. As a Muslim, I could not forget the warm hospitality of the Congregation of Sisters of Dorothy who accommodated us. It was a great feeling to be welcomed with a joyous heart. I was especially moved when all of us spent some time in a prayer, a moment so quiet where I could almost hear nothing but my own thoughts and my earnest desire for a lasting peace with these people from all walks of life.
When Fr. Efren Reyes of the Missionary of Jesus (religious community), presently assigned in Malabang, Lanao del Sur, shared about his experience in dialogue of life, and his life as a priest in the community where majority are Muslim- Maranao , I realized how challenging it is to sustain one’s individual and unique ideology while maintaining a wholesome relationship with people from other faiths.
It was indeed a journey which gave me the venue to clarify certain issues involving Christians and Muslims. The participants were particularly interested on different misconceptions against Islam and Muslims and I was most pleased to share with them my life and my own faith and how a Muslim could participate in the efforts on peace building.
I wish to extend my sincere gratitude to the MSPC-YS for trust and support bestowed in me as I continue to take part in our quest for solidarity through dialogue.
Muslim Coordinator, Silsilah Forum-Davao
Much has been done to foster solidarity and understanding among different religious and cultural groups in our society. Various inter religious movements arose; more and more religious leaders came out and converged for one common cause- dialogue.
In my years of involvement in interreligious gathering, I realized that I am just one of the few ordinary people who dream for a peaceful world, the world shared by many who come from various culture and orientation. I said “few” because out of the countless number of people from different faiths and overwhelming number of initiatives for dialogue and peace, there is a greater number of individual who remain deaf to the call for unity, refuse to take part of it, and continue to be blinded by their deep seated biases and prejudices.
My journey brought me to a personal encounter with the Taize Pilgrimage of Trust on Earth, an in depth community prayer and reflection led by the brothers based in France. The said activity was conducted last February 3-7, 2010 in Don Bosco, Makati, Philippines. The Mindanao-Sulu Pastoral Conference-Youth Secretariate invited me to co-facilitate the activity on Interreligious Dialogue and represented the Muslim community for my sharing on dialogue in Davao City context. Having seen Catholic priest, a sister from the Indigenous group and myself as a strong follower of Islam, who shared the same aspiration for peace and dialogue, still I am amazed how these people of different orientations become real partners in peace building.
The two day experiences marked another step higher in growing and understanding the essence of dialogue. As a Muslim, I could not forget the warm hospitality of the Congregation of Sisters of Dorothy who accommodated us. It was a great feeling to be welcomed with a joyous heart. I was especially moved when all of us spent some time in a prayer, a moment so quiet where I could almost hear nothing but my own thoughts and my earnest desire for a lasting peace with these people from all walks of life.
When Fr. Efren Reyes of the Missionary of Jesus (religious community), presently assigned in Malabang, Lanao del Sur, shared about his experience in dialogue of life, and his life as a priest in the community where majority are Muslim- Maranao , I realized how challenging it is to sustain one’s individual and unique ideology while maintaining a wholesome relationship with people from other faiths.
It was indeed a journey which gave me the venue to clarify certain issues involving Christians and Muslims. The participants were particularly interested on different misconceptions against Islam and Muslims and I was most pleased to share with them my life and my own faith and how a Muslim could participate in the efforts on peace building.
I wish to extend my sincere gratitude to the MSPC-YS for trust and support bestowed in me as I continue to take part in our quest for solidarity through dialogue.
Bangka Launching and TAIZE Prayer encapsulated GKK Experiences
BANGKA Launching and TAIZE Prayer encapsulated GKK Experiences
By: Christie Marie Nillas
Diocese of Iligan
The Diocesan Youth Apostolate of Iligan celebrated the MSPC-Youh Bangka Launching at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish, Linamon Lanao del Norte last December 19-20, 2009, with the theme: “We remember, We celebrate, We believe.” The celebration was participated by almost three hundred(300) delegates from the different parishes of Lanao del Norte and Iligan City.
The program started with the symbolic opening liturgy led by the youth from the Catholic Center Campus Ministry. As part of the celebration, a video presentation on the history and programs of the MSPC-Youth was shown.
Sr. Emily Lumido, MSM, the Youth Coordinator of the Diocese of Iligan synthesized the youth's sharing on their experiences during Election. In addition, Mrs. Fely Nillas, BEC Coordinator of the Diocese of Iligan, challenged the youth through their presentations on the youths' experiences of BEC in their individual parishes.
After the presentations and sharing of the facilitators, a Taize Prayer encapsulated the reflections on personal experiences and encounters in the Basic Ecclesial Community (BEC).
After the talks and reflections, a Youth Jam was held to show case the youths' talents in singing and dancing.
The activity was concluded with an Aguinaldo Mass celebrated by the parish priest of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Fr. Albert Trazo. He emphasized in his homily that the youth as the hope of the nation, should do their part in sharing the Mission of Christ through being responsible and honest in choosing the leaders of our country.
The MSPC-Youth Bangka Launching is a preparation program for the 9th Mindanao-Sulu Pastoral Conference Youth Congress and Silver Jubilee of the MSPC-YC which will be held in the Diocese of Pagadian on July 19-23, 2010.
By: Christie Marie Nillas
Diocese of Iligan
The Diocesan Youth Apostolate of Iligan celebrated the MSPC-Youh Bangka Launching at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish, Linamon Lanao del Norte last December 19-20, 2009, with the theme: “We remember, We celebrate, We believe.” The celebration was participated by almost three hundred(300) delegates from the different parishes of Lanao del Norte and Iligan City.
The program started with the symbolic opening liturgy led by the youth from the Catholic Center Campus Ministry. As part of the celebration, a video presentation on the history and programs of the MSPC-Youth was shown.
Sr. Emily Lumido, MSM, the Youth Coordinator of the Diocese of Iligan synthesized the youth's sharing on their experiences during Election. In addition, Mrs. Fely Nillas, BEC Coordinator of the Diocese of Iligan, challenged the youth through their presentations on the youths' experiences of BEC in their individual parishes.
After the presentations and sharing of the facilitators, a Taize Prayer encapsulated the reflections on personal experiences and encounters in the Basic Ecclesial Community (BEC).
After the talks and reflections, a Youth Jam was held to show case the youths' talents in singing and dancing.
The activity was concluded with an Aguinaldo Mass celebrated by the parish priest of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Fr. Albert Trazo. He emphasized in his homily that the youth as the hope of the nation, should do their part in sharing the Mission of Christ through being responsible and honest in choosing the leaders of our country.
The MSPC-Youth Bangka Launching is a preparation program for the 9th Mindanao-Sulu Pastoral Conference Youth Congress and Silver Jubilee of the MSPC-YC which will be held in the Diocese of Pagadian on July 19-23, 2010.
The Shepherd’s Voice
Good Governance is among the topmost agenda of those who desire for a better Philippines. In our country where a very great number of our people wallow in abject poverty and misery, while tremendous social privileges and deference are accorded to the rich and powerful, majority of our people desire for good governance since today some of those who are holding key positions in the public office are apparently veering away from the original design of God’s governance. With this in mind, there is truly a pressing call for every Filipino to take an active part in the promotion and realization of a dedicated commitment to, transparency, and professionalism in public service. This also implies, especially among Christians who comprise the vast majority of the Philippine population, that good governance should now become an essential part of Christian mission.
We are called to exercise responsible stewardship over all creation. Such a stewardship is exercised in our daily activities which we can rightfully consider as a prolongation of God’s continuing work of creating, and a service to our fellowmen (CFC341). The principle of stewardship is dynamically linked with the idea of good governance, that is, a way of life that ensures sustainable human development.
In the beginning, God created us after his own image and likeness. “Let us make a man in our image image, after our likeness…[they] shall have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and all the living things that move earth.” How blessed are we! Among all creatures, only we human beings receive the unique and special favor to be created in the image and likeness of the Maker. Only we favorably share in the Creator’s “goodness” from which flows the special character of a steward. Hence, being stewards is a gift and an intrinsic character of human persons.
God affirms and makes it clear this gift of stewardship when he commanded and gave human beings His full trust to have dominion over all other creatures. To have dominion does not mean “to lord it over,” but to responsibly manage everything that God entrusted to us, men. In other words, we esteem the responsibility to be “in charge” whatever the creator has given them. To be “in charge” is not only assuming the power to govern according to the design of the one who entrusts.
In today’s context, stewardship takes the form of good governance. The concept of good governance is not new. It is as old as human civilization. Simply put “governance” means: the process of decision making and the process by which decisions are implemented (or not implemented). It is broadly defined as the exercise of political, economic, and administrative authority to manage country’s resources for development. It is an exercise of good management where every constituent of the society can benefit and enjoy the goods that are meant to be shared by the whole community.
Unfortunately for most of us, good governance still remains an unreachable dream. After each elections, we cannot help but wallow in frustrations because we fell short again of our
Expectations.
Good governance is not something that we wait until it happens; it is rather our choice to make it happen. The fulfillment of this noble ideal is within reach. The young people, who comprise the majority of voters on the 2010 election and whose principles remain untainted by dismal politicking, are a vital sign of power to effect a significant change. Still oozing with enthusiasm, the youth can go to the frontiers and become vanguards in this cause for a clean, honest, and peaceful elections.
However, over and above, this timely endeavor for good governance must begin within ourselves. Nothing better can happen in a community where both leaders and constituents cheat. Good governance thrives only when each constituents, in his own way, can be trusted to perform his responsibility well.
We are called to exercise responsible stewardship over all creation. Such a stewardship is exercised in our daily activities which we can rightfully consider as a prolongation of God’s continuing work of creating, and a service to our fellowmen (CFC341). The principle of stewardship is dynamically linked with the idea of good governance, that is, a way of life that ensures sustainable human development.
In the beginning, God created us after his own image and likeness. “Let us make a man in our image image, after our likeness…[they] shall have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and all the living things that move earth.” How blessed are we! Among all creatures, only we human beings receive the unique and special favor to be created in the image and likeness of the Maker. Only we favorably share in the Creator’s “goodness” from which flows the special character of a steward. Hence, being stewards is a gift and an intrinsic character of human persons.
God affirms and makes it clear this gift of stewardship when he commanded and gave human beings His full trust to have dominion over all other creatures. To have dominion does not mean “to lord it over,” but to responsibly manage everything that God entrusted to us, men. In other words, we esteem the responsibility to be “in charge” whatever the creator has given them. To be “in charge” is not only assuming the power to govern according to the design of the one who entrusts.
In today’s context, stewardship takes the form of good governance. The concept of good governance is not new. It is as old as human civilization. Simply put “governance” means: the process of decision making and the process by which decisions are implemented (or not implemented). It is broadly defined as the exercise of political, economic, and administrative authority to manage country’s resources for development. It is an exercise of good management where every constituent of the society can benefit and enjoy the goods that are meant to be shared by the whole community.
Unfortunately for most of us, good governance still remains an unreachable dream. After each elections, we cannot help but wallow in frustrations because we fell short again of our
Expectations.
Good governance is not something that we wait until it happens; it is rather our choice to make it happen. The fulfillment of this noble ideal is within reach. The young people, who comprise the majority of voters on the 2010 election and whose principles remain untainted by dismal politicking, are a vital sign of power to effect a significant change. Still oozing with enthusiasm, the youth can go to the frontiers and become vanguards in this cause for a clean, honest, and peaceful elections.
However, over and above, this timely endeavor for good governance must begin within ourselves. Nothing better can happen in a community where both leaders and constituents cheat. Good governance thrives only when each constituents, in his own way, can be trusted to perform his responsibility well.
Marbel Youth Launched BANGKA in GEN SAN
Marbel Youth launched BANGKA in GenSan
By: Edielyne May T. Jimeno
DYA Sec., Diocese of Marbel
Young people coming from different parishes around SOCSARGEN gathered last January 8-10, 2010 during the 1st Diocesan Youth Camp held at the Passionist Retreat Center, Labu ,General Santos City.
It was the first event of the new year for the Catholic Youth Ministry of the Diocese of Marbel and at the same time the launching of “BANGKA”, a preparatory formation in preparation for the 25th Anniversary of MSPC-YC . Embracing this year’s WYD Theme: “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?”, the young gathered and met new faces through extraordinary events patterned from the previously held 5th Asian Youth Day (AYD). The five area vicariates joined hands in mobilizing the event.
The event started with a totally unique, Diocesan Walk headed by the Diocesan Youth Ministry Chaplain, Fr. Jun Pajarillo and priests within Metro Dadiangas Area (MEDA) vicariate. It was followed by an informative and challenging INPUTS on “ The MSPC & MSPC-Youth Congress: An overview “ and “ The Church and the Youth Ministry ” by Ms. May Solano of the MSPC-Youth Secretariate.
The Youth Cross Pilgrimage Launching was conducted earlier during the second day. The input on the theme was given by Fr. Jun Pajarillo, Diocesan Youth Director. It was quite inspiring and worth reflecting as challenges for the youth. A differently modified Pinoylympics was held in the whole afternoon. The showcase of talents and beauties during the solidarity night was quite entertaining. The third and final day started with the Youth Exhibit. Simple and creative open house that described the different cultures of every parish that attended the Camp.
The 3-day event successfully culminated with the Eucharistic celebration. The youth were then challenged to continue serving and inspiring fellow KABATAN-ONAN to join the different activities prepared for the whole year especially in joining with the MSPC-YC Silver Jubilee celebration on July 19-23,2010 in Pagadian City.
By: Edielyne May T. Jimeno
DYA Sec., Diocese of Marbel
Young people coming from different parishes around SOCSARGEN gathered last January 8-10, 2010 during the 1st Diocesan Youth Camp held at the Passionist Retreat Center, Labu ,General Santos City.
It was the first event of the new year for the Catholic Youth Ministry of the Diocese of Marbel and at the same time the launching of “BANGKA”, a preparatory formation in preparation for the 25th Anniversary of MSPC-YC . Embracing this year’s WYD Theme: “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?”, the young gathered and met new faces through extraordinary events patterned from the previously held 5th Asian Youth Day (AYD). The five area vicariates joined hands in mobilizing the event.
The event started with a totally unique, Diocesan Walk headed by the Diocesan Youth Ministry Chaplain, Fr. Jun Pajarillo and priests within Metro Dadiangas Area (MEDA) vicariate. It was followed by an informative and challenging INPUTS on “ The MSPC & MSPC-Youth Congress: An overview “ and “ The Church and the Youth Ministry ” by Ms. May Solano of the MSPC-Youth Secretariate.
The Youth Cross Pilgrimage Launching was conducted earlier during the second day. The input on the theme was given by Fr. Jun Pajarillo, Diocesan Youth Director. It was quite inspiring and worth reflecting as challenges for the youth. A differently modified Pinoylympics was held in the whole afternoon. The showcase of talents and beauties during the solidarity night was quite entertaining. The third and final day started with the Youth Exhibit. Simple and creative open house that described the different cultures of every parish that attended the Camp.
The 3-day event successfully culminated with the Eucharistic celebration. The youth were then challenged to continue serving and inspiring fellow KABATAN-ONAN to join the different activities prepared for the whole year especially in joining with the MSPC-YC Silver Jubilee celebration on July 19-23,2010 in Pagadian City.
Youth Coordinators & Directors Convened in Cagayan de Oro
The Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro hosted the 6th Youth Directors and Coordinators Forum on February 18-20, 2010. It was participated by Thirty-four (34) youth ministers all over MSPC.
The Opening Liturgy was held at the Fatima Parish, Camaman-an, Cagayan de Oro City. It was presided by Fr. Efren Reyes, MJ and concelebrated by the priest directors who attended the forum. It was followed by dinner and entertainment songs from the Red Clay Band.
Fr. Nathan Lerio, SSJV, Youth Director of Cagayan de Oro shared an input on “ Political Engagement Towards 2010 and Beyond ”. It was quite inspiring yet challenging for the youth to be an active catalyst for social transformation.
The said annual forum aimed at giving formation and updates on social issues, preparing for the MSPC-YC Silver Jubilee celebration and strengthening camaraderie among the youth directors and coordinators.
The forum was focused on the discussion of the MSPC-YC Policy. The Regional Youth Council together with the MSPC-Youth Secretariate drafted the policy which was a felt need since the DYD & DYC Forum held in Cotabato City in 2008.
Fr. Peng Reyes, MJ, MSPC-Youth Director, presented the drafted policy. Workshop by region was done to draw up comments, clarifications and suggestions for the policy. On the following day, comments and suggestions were noted. This drafted policy will then be presented during the MSPC-YC 9 for approval and implementation.
On the other hand, updates of the MSPC-YC 9 were also discussed. The main venue of the Silver Jubilee Celebration (MSPC-YC 9) on July 19-23, 2010 will be in Agro Heritage Complex, Dao, Pagadian City. The Youth Ministers are reminded for the deadline of delegates’ individual registration form on June 10, 2010.
Come and join the MSPC-YC Silver Jubilee Celebration…Mabuhay!!!
The Opening Liturgy was held at the Fatima Parish, Camaman-an, Cagayan de Oro City. It was presided by Fr. Efren Reyes, MJ and concelebrated by the priest directors who attended the forum. It was followed by dinner and entertainment songs from the Red Clay Band.
Fr. Nathan Lerio, SSJV, Youth Director of Cagayan de Oro shared an input on “ Political Engagement Towards 2010 and Beyond ”. It was quite inspiring yet challenging for the youth to be an active catalyst for social transformation.
The said annual forum aimed at giving formation and updates on social issues, preparing for the MSPC-YC Silver Jubilee celebration and strengthening camaraderie among the youth directors and coordinators.
The forum was focused on the discussion of the MSPC-YC Policy. The Regional Youth Council together with the MSPC-Youth Secretariate drafted the policy which was a felt need since the DYD & DYC Forum held in Cotabato City in 2008.
Fr. Peng Reyes, MJ, MSPC-Youth Director, presented the drafted policy. Workshop by region was done to draw up comments, clarifications and suggestions for the policy. On the following day, comments and suggestions were noted. This drafted policy will then be presented during the MSPC-YC 9 for approval and implementation.
On the other hand, updates of the MSPC-YC 9 were also discussed. The main venue of the Silver Jubilee Celebration (MSPC-YC 9) on July 19-23, 2010 will be in Agro Heritage Complex, Dao, Pagadian City. The Youth Ministers are reminded for the deadline of delegates’ individual registration form on June 10, 2010.
Come and join the MSPC-YC Silver Jubilee Celebration…Mabuhay!!!
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