A Publication of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints-Marikina, Philippines Stake

Volume I Issue 2 | January 2013

He Sent His Son: A Marikina Stake Christmas Devotional

dent, President Jose Manarin, who spoke about The True Meaning of Christmas. Perhaps, because of all the merriment, grandeur, and hustle & bustle of the season, we tend to forget the true meaning of Christmas which is actually the complete opposite of what we experience today. On that quiet solemn night where in a lowly manger, wrapped in swaddling clothes was the most precious gift to mankind, the true reason for Christmas. Pres. Manarin reminded us of these simple circumstances that make Christmas the joyous and glorious season that it is, the great love our Heavenly Father has for us that He gave us His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world. The devotional was graced with divine music rendered by the Marikina Stake Choir under the direction of Sister Cynthia Micairan and accompanied by Sister Beth Lim. -KO Micairan, M6

The Marikina Stake Choir during the Marikina Stake Devotional last December 16, 2012

The Marikina Stake held its Christmas Devotional on December 16, 2012 at the Provident Chapel in Marikina City. This years annual celebration entitled, He Sent His Son, was attended by members of the Marikina Stake as well as members from other units and even from other faiths. The evening was filled with inspired messages from the members of the Marikina Stake Presidency, beginning with President Ofrecio Corpuz who spoke of Intangible Gifts. Pres. Corpuz relayed his story as a child who grew up in a meager home and was used to not

receiving any gift during Christmas. But amidst their circumstances, his family found happiness being together and greater was their joy when his father decided to be baptized into the Church on that December day. He encouraged us to seek happiness in those gifts that are often ignored or disregarded, like our precious families, our priceless membership in the true Church and the Lords wonderful gift of eternal life. President Danilo Basconcillo followed President Corpuz as he spoke about The True Value of Gifts. He also relayed

an experience as a boy when he received one of his most beloved giftsa toy train that had its own track and a complete fleet of cars. What a treat this was for him as a boy! As he grew up, however, he realized that the true value of gifts is not measured by the size of the gift but by the size of the heart of the giver and the receiver. Pres. Basconcillo shared that every gift given, whether great or small, has a corresponding thought of the receiver that truly makes the gift more special. The final message was given by Marikina Stake Presi-

BOOK OF MORMON READINGHow has it blessed you?

Every time I read the Book of Mormon, I always think about missionary work. It always gives me the desire to share the good blessings of the gospel to others so it can change their lives the way it has changed mine. -April Espino, M1 Reading the Book of Mormon strengthens my testimony about the truthfulness of the gospel. Learning about Joseph Smith through the scriptures fills my heart with gratitude for him. If it werent for him, our church would not have been with us today. -Violeta Basa, S2 Reading the Book of Mormon helps me answer my personal questions. It helps me to have faith that God is always there to answer my prayers. Because of the scriptures, I become closer to God. -Biboy Aserit, M3 What I am today is because of the Book of Mormon. Reading it has blessed me and my family . It also encourages me to go and serve a full time mission. -Sis. Anna Lyn Rada, M4 Every time I read the Book of Mormon, I feel so enlightened. Despite the many challenges in life, I feel so strong. The Book of Mormon is my armor. As long as I have it, I can overcome every challenge, no matter how big. -Stephanie Reyes, M3 A mighty change of heart thats what I exactly feel every time I read the Book of Mormon. It helps me realize how blessed I am and allows me to appreciate more the atoning sacrifice of our Savior Jesus Christ for us. Our Heavenly Father loves us so much that He gave us this book so it can guide us in this life. -Sis. Hannie Raflores, S1 Reading the Book of Mormon has influenced me in so many ways. If you read it, you will see how merciful our God is. It will also help you evaluate your own personality. I have successfully acquired many good traits since I developed the habit of reading at least two chapters of the Book of Mormon a day. -Bro. Shan Alfeche, M3

Volume I Issue I | September 2012

MESSAGES FROM THE STAKE PRESIDENCY

Marry in the Covenant
One of my wishes as a newly installed stake president was to see our young generation marry each other within the Church or marry within the covenant in the Holy Temple of the Lord. In ancient times, marrying within the covenant was of great importance to the posterity of Abraham. Esau, the firstborn son of Isaac and Rebekah, married a Hittite woman who did not accept the same God as did Abraham and Isaac. Esaus marrying outside the covenant was a great grief of mind unto Isaac and Rebekah (Genesis 26:3435). On the other hand, Jacob, Esaus twin brother, went to a considerable length and distance to find a wife. Following the counsel of his Father to not take a wife of the daughters of Canaan, Jacob went to Panadaram to find a wife among the daughters of Laban, his mothers brother. He arranged to marry Rachel in exchange for seven years of service to Laban. Through Labans trickery, Rachels older sister Leah became Jacob's bride. Jacob contracted with Laban to serve another seven years in order to marry Rachel, whom he loved. (Gen. 28 -29). Emphasizing the importance of marrying in the covenant, President Joseph F. Smith counseled, rels and often finally to separation. Besides they are not pleasing in the sight of Heaven; the believer and unbeliever should not be yoked together, for sooner or later, in time or eternity, they must be divided again. Another Prophet of the Lord has said, Now, I want to speak frankly to the young men and young women of the church. When you marry, your decision not only affects you, but your future children and generations after you.

by Pres. Jose Manarin

Every child born to a Latter-Day Saint parent deserves to be born under the covenant of temple blessings. Do not trifle away your happiness by an involvement with someone who cannot take you worthily to the temple.
Make a decision now that this is the place where you will marry. To leave that decision after a romantic involvement develops is to take a risk, the importance of which you cant calculate now ( Pres. Ezra Taft Benson). My dear young men and women of the Marikina stake who are now of marriageable age, may I counsel you to ponder in your heart these important directions from the prophets of the Lord whom God has sent to guide our paths to eternal life. Find a partner now, a member of the Church, and marry in the covenant. And if you already have one, decide now. Prayerfully prepare and live worthy of it. Be married the Lords way. Temple marriage is a gospel ordinance of exaltation. It is only when your marriage is

We say to you young people, get married, and marry right. Marry in the faith and let the ceremony be performed in the place God has appointed.
...Live so that you may be worthy of this blessing. But do not marry outside the Church, as such union almost invariably leads to unhappiness and quar-

performed in the holy house of the Lord that you can find the path that leads to eternity and obtain the promised blessings of thrones, kingdoms, principalities and powers, dominions and eternal increase. (D&C 132:19). In the Celestial kingdom, there are three heavens or degrees. And in order to obtain the highest, a man must enter into the order of the priesthood meaning the new and everlasting covenant of marriage. And if he does not he cannot obtain it (D&C 130:13). I know your worries. You are afraid of the heavy responsibilities of having a family. You are concerned about supporting a family and providing them with lifes necessities in these uncertain economic times. Those fears must be replaced with faith. If you will only exercise great faith, the Lord will sustain your daily needs. For as long as you are hardworking and diligent, faithful in the payment of your tithes and offerings and keep all of the commandments, you will be supported by our loving Heavenly Father. Of course, there will be sacrifices required, but you will grow from these and you will be better men and women for having met them. President Thomas S. Monson has stated: Work hard educationally and in your vocation. Put your trust in the Lord, have faith and it will work out.

The Lord never gives a commandment without providing the means to accomplish it. (1Nephi 3:7). Also, never get caught up with materialism, one of the real plagues of our generation, is that of acquiring things, fast-paced living and securing career success in the single state.

Honorable marriage is more important than wealth, position and status. As husband and wife, you can achieve your lifes goal together.
As you sacrifice for each other and your children, the Lord will bless you and your commitment to the Lord and your service in His kingdom will be enhanced (Pres. Thomas S. Monson.). I assure you of the most rewarding blessing that comes from a loving Heavenly Father as you follow His counsels through His beloved servants. You will find joy, peace and harmonious family relationship as you abide by the principles of the gospel. I pray that you will exercise faith in this crucial decision of your life. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Volume I Issue I | September 2012

Stake members take up TESDA Housekeeping NC-II Course

The Stake Employment Resource Services of the Marikina Philippines Stake, in partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) of the Philippines, has successfully provided our members another great opportunity to develop and enhance the skills of our brothers and sisters in the area of professional services through the TESDA HOUSEKEEPING TRAINING (NC II). The course covers all aspects of professional housekeeping services needed by hotels, resorts and cruise ships. The modules cover identification of housekeeping equipment and cleaning products, systematic cleaning procedures, hotelstandard guest room preparation, laundry and linen services, and general maintenance of hotel and resort premises, among others. The invitation was formally launched thru a Stake ERC Fireside held at the Molave Chapel last September 23, 2012 that was attended by at least 112 prospective enrollees. The training was later completed by a total of 42 students who persistently attended the required sessions spanning in two (2) weeks from November 19 to November 30, 2012. It concluded with a nerve-racking but absolutely rewarding experience as all participants proved their new and/ or enhanced skills through a strict assessment exercise conducted by authorities from the local sector (TESDA) held in Quezon City. The Marikina Philippines Stake was able to hit 88.09% pass rate while the Stake Presidency is still reviewing opportunities to help those who missed their chance in the final assessment to ensure that their demonstrated perseverance will reap them their reward. It was indeed a great experience! Having the training was really helpful for us members. The training itself was a fun-filled learning opportunity and helped develop my skills well, said Sister Surfreda Iledan, member of the Marikina 6th Ward and a graduate of the recently concluded training. The Stake Employment Center leaders would like to extend their appreciation to all the Bishops and Employment Specialists of each Ward/Branch within the stake who made the project successful. Members are encouraged to always be on the watch for additional training courses in 2013. Sis. Emelyn Casaol, ERC Directress, invites members to support the program and take advantage of the skills that can be learned for future job opportunities . -Mike Bala, M4

Marikina Stake members who participated in the TESDA training last November

Kainang Pamilya Mahalaga Day: A Pinoy Latter-Day Saint Holiday

In conjunction with the annual celebration of the National Family Week, President Benigno S. Aquino III has declared the fourth Monday of September of every year as Kainang Pamilya Mahalaga Day. In Proclamation No. 326 signed by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on January 26, 2012, the President issued the declaration to highlight and celebrate the value of families sharing meals together as a national tradition that should be observed annually and sustained by all Filipino families (Office of the President news excerpt dated August 23, 2012). The National Committee on the Filipino Family served as the lead government agency tasked to synchronize efforts with media units/advertising agencies, national and local government units, non-government organizations and several religious organizations. The said collaboration resulted in increased public awareness and support for the proclamation. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints played a pivotal role in the successful lobbying and implementation of the original enacted law (Proclamation No. 60 series 1992) through disseminating action plans and internal awareness for effective implementation nationwide. The Area Public Affairs, down to Stake/District level, actively enacted the proclamation. For the Marikina Philippines Stake, members of the Stake Public Affairs Team, acting under the direction of President Jose G. Manarin, aggressively campaigned and internally declared this proclamation as a new annual holiday (every 4th Monday of September) for all Latter-Day Saints. In line with this, the Stake Public Affairs Team encouraged all families to be in their respective homes by 5PM, preparing the best dinner ensemble possible, forgetting overtime work, extra school activities and barkada nights out. The Stake also encouraged families to make this dinner experience a very special one that all Filipino saints will secure strength from and look forward to not just every 4th Monday of September in each year, but every day. -Bro. Merille Martin, M1

Bernadas Family of Marikina 6th Ward observing the Kainang Pamilya Mahalaga Day

Volume I Issue I | September 2012

2012 Multi-Stake Young Single Adults (YSA) Conference: Mission and Marriage

The YSAs of Marikina Stake during the 2012 MYSA The Young Single Adults (YSAs) of Marikina, Fairview and Quezon City South Stakes participated in the annual Multi-stake conference held last December 30November 1, 2012 at Klir Waterpark Resort in Plaridel, Bulacan. Themed Mission: Called of God, Marriage: Ordained of God, the activity was held in line with the goal of the Area Presidency, Saving the Rising Generation. The goal involves increasing the number of YSAs attending church meetings and institute classes, serving misthe three stakes were combined into groups and played games. After the teambuilding activities, the YSAs were given the freedom to go swimming from 2-5pm. The days highlight was a dance social entitled M&M: Mission and Marriage at 7pm where Single Adults from the participating stakes rendered song and dance numbers and danced until 11pm. Day 2 opened with a scripture study activity where sisters were tasked to choose their study companions. After the

Elder Nielsen while speaking at the devotional on the second day of the conference

The Quezon City Philippines Institute of Religion also rendered a presentation to invite all to attend the institute while President and Sister DeLaMare gave wonderful talks about missions and marriage. Pres. DeLaMare particularly discussed the factors

why Single Adults normally postpone mission and marriage. A total of 100 YSAs from Marikina Stake attended, 61 of which were sisters and 49 brothers. -Sis. Rachelle Cabela, M3

The Young Single Adults of Marikina 1st Ward during the MYSA Conference

sions and getting married in the temple. It also involves rescuing the lost ones. The Marikina Stake YSAs assembled at Molave Chapel at 5am and departed at around 6:30am via three air-conditioned buses. The morning of Day 1 was spent for team -building activities. The YSAs of

breakfast, an exciting open forum and devotional was held with President and Sister DeLaMare, the Philippines Quezon City Mission president and wife, together with the participating stake presidents and their wives. Questions in the open forum centered on the topic, Mission and Marriage.

The dance presentation of the Young Single Adults of Sumulong 2nd Ward during the Dance Social

Volume I Issue I | September 2012

OPINION
We see this era as an era when the dichotomy between gospel culture and the Filipino culture is too fine that knowing which way to go has gone way too confusing. But really, if you are a Filipino whose customs have been Filipinized since you were born, what does it cost you to cease going by the book and try adhering to the culture the majority unfortunately stands up against? Lets start with the basics. Filipinos say Americans are liberated. At age 18, they are free to live independently and work so they can earn a living and sustain their needs. In the Philippines, men and women marry in their 20s, have children and still depend on their parents for their financial needs. The same proves to be true in missionary work. Elder Dallin H. Oaks once reported that only a few of our local missionaries support themselves financially through their personal savings because they depend too much on what the missionary fund of the church gives them. This has apparently entrenched a lack of self-reliance in the cultural pattern of Filipinos and has retarded their capacity to become independent at a given age. Talk about temple marriage. When a Filipino couple is asked why they procrastinate marriage, their responses are always along the lines of Filipino culture. Either the family of the young man or the young woman expects him or her to work and provide financial support to his parents as a way of giving back all they had to sacrifice in rearing him/her for the past 20 or so years of his /her lifeit has often been that way. Sometimes though, parents have nothing to do with the picture. Some couples would simply decide to procrastinate marriage so they can save enough, believing they can ever save enough either for a house where they can immediately move in after marriage or for their home appliances. Filipinos are so concerned about worldly things that they sometimes tend to set aside the things that matter mostthose that are of eternal significance. Delayed gratification has been embedded in our culture, and this has been a soft underbelly of Filipino members for years, even decades. Our God is a God of conviction, and it goes without saying that He does not make promises that He does not keep. More than a Filipino, you are a child of an omniscient and omnipotent God. He knows what is best for you and if He asks you to do something, do it with your head held high and your fears forgone. After all, gospel culture is all about thatas Elder Oaks once put itforgetting about everything else now and believing in Gods promised blessings later.

On Crossroads
by Vianne Ilagan

November Conference tackles Book of Mormon Reading, Gratitude, Missionary Work

The Marikina Stake held in the morning of November 11, 2012 its annual stake conference at the Provident Chapel in Marikina City. Members of the stake were pleased to have President and Sister DeLaMare and Sister Nielsen and Elder Brent H. Nielsen around to fill the conference with their inspired messages and to remind them of their responsibilities as Latter-day Saints. Sis. DelaMare gave a talk on gratitude. She encouraged the members of the stake to thank God for every blessing that they receive and unfailingly acknowledge His role in their lives. In his talk, Pres. DelaMare emphasized the roles of church members in building the kingdom of God on earth. He urged the young men of the stake to start preparing for their full-time missionary service someday and strive to be worthy to enter the Holy Temple. He also encouraged the members of the stake to work with full-time missionaries and let more people know about the fullness of the gospel. Following the congregational hymn, Sis. Nielsen shared a beautiful allegory wherein she compared the most desirable peaches in her backyard to the blessings that hardworking and faithful members receive in this life. Many people eat the rotten pieces, she said, stressing that it takes a lot of hard work to become worthy of the greatest blessings God has reserved for His sons and daughters. She urged the members to continue living worthily and take full advantage of the gospel in their lives so they can reach the highest part of the peach tree and find the best peaches there are. In his concluding message, Elder Nielsen emphasized the importance of holy temples and the Book of Mormon in the latter days. He urged the members to go to the temple whenever they seek answers to their questions, when they need guidance, or when they are burdened with something. Elder Nielsen also testified of the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon and encouraged members to make it a point to read it every day and discover for themselves the difference that it can make in their lives. -Vianne Ilagan, M1

The female members of the Marikina Stake Choir with Sister and Elder Nielsen

Volume I Issue I | September 2012

DATELINE MARIKINA STAKE

Marikina 1st Ward Holds Youth Camp 2012
Marikina 2nd sisters increase self-reliance, learn how to make snack foods
The Marikina 2nd Relief Society sisters further increased their self-reliance as they learned how to make wheat burger, mango samurai, and puto pao, last October 27 at Lamuan Chapel. Sister Rose Diamante, Relief Society President, said that the objective of the activity was to enable the sisters to learn new food recipes which they could use to feed their families or to start a new business venture. This can help the sisters better serve their families through the preparation of healthy, cheap foods or to start a new livelihood which can bring in extra income for their families. she said. -Jethro Diamante, M2

Marikina 3rd Ward holds church services in Molave Chapel

The youth and leaders of Marikina 1st Ward on the last day of their Youth Camp 2012

The Marikina 1st ward youth organization held its annual Ward Youth Camp on December 6-8, 2012 at the Provident Chapel, Marikina. The camp was joined by eight young women and five young men, the biggest number of youth the ward had in many years. The camp featured a series of fun-filled learning activities that aimed to evaluate and challenge the youths spiritual, physical, mental and social capabilities: devotional with the ward leaders on

the first evening, outdoor activities in the Marikina sports center, Scripture/Gospel quizzes and mental games/challenges and a bonfire/smores session on the second day and on the third day, clean up and the much awaited swimming in an indoor pool along Aurora. Since no Relief society sisters were invited, the youth and the leaders jointly prepared the meals, washed the dishes and maintained the venue. - Julie Alberto, M1

The saints of Marikina 3rd Ward are currently holding their church services at Molave Chapel to give way to the renovation and remodelling of their home chapel in Lamuan. The ward holds its sacrament meeting at 7:30 in the morning. Lamuan Chapel, the second chapel of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints established in Marikina, was built in 1987 following the erection of Provident Chapel in 1975. It currently houses the members of Marikina 2nd Ward and Ma-

rikina 3rd Ward and is known for being the only chapel in the stake that retains the old model of LDS chapels, characterized by red bricks. The faithful members of Marikina 3rd Ward look forward to moving in to their renovated chapel a few months from now. In an interview, Bishop Quilantang said he is currently intensifying efforts to improve the population of the ward through regular visiting teaching and home teaching. -Mary Ester Polintan

Eternity opens for M4 Single Adults in 2012

Approximately eight YSAs from Marikina 4th Ward got married last year. "I really could not enumerate all the blessings that I have received since we got married, but one thing I was certain is that everything felt right since we had decided to get married in the temple", Sis. Kye VenzonManarin said months after she had married Bro. Jay Manarin. Bro. Zebulun Venzon also testified of the blessings he and Sis. Leah had received after following the counsel of our leaders.

blessed financially and physically. Our faith is tested always but we always say, I know the Lord will provide. And He never fails, he shared.
Sis. Jhec Sevilla Raflores, Sis. Rhea Mondragon Cuaresma, Sis. Mary Shayne Corpuz Remadavia, Sis. Faye Sta. Barbara Hanopol and Bro. Roel Hanopol were the other YSAs from the ward who had the faith and courage to finally get married and start building their own families in 2012. -Rozell Joie Bordeos, M4

We never get hungry. We are

The YSAs of Marikina 4th Ward who just got married in 2012

Volume I Issue I | September 2012

DATELINE MARIKINA STAKE

Sumulong 2nd branch turns into a ward
Last September 2012, the dream of Sumulong 2nd branch to become a ward finally materialized. After six months of untiring leadership and service as the branch president of Sumulong 2nd, President Guevarra was released and was immediately called and sustained as the first bishop of the newly-organized ward. The branch presidency of Sumulong 2nd, with the help of the priesthood holders and members of the church, conducted massive home teaching to the active and less active members of the branch. This resulted in a very remarkable increase in sacrament attendance during the organization of the ward. The new ward also prides itself on the seven brethren it was able to send to the mission field recently. When asked what sustains a strong unit, Bishop Guevarra answered, The bishopric, through some church programs like home visiting, one day mission and cottage home evening, we are continuously reaching out to the less active. -Armie Nidea Saet, S2
The Young Women and Primary children of Sumulong 1st ward during their dinner theatre activity

Marikina 6th Youth prepares for eternity

The leaders and youth of Marikina 6th ward excitedly gathered in the morning of November 30 at Molave Chapel for their youth camp activity. The activity highlighted a spiritual discussion of Duty to God and Personal Progress which centered on mission preparation and preparing for temple marriage. The Lord calls for our presence and we will serve righteously, expressed a young man from the ward. We are striving to meet our eternal priorities; a big NO to those who will not stand with us in the temple, said a young woman. Gospel studying and sharing, talent showcases, swimming and team building were among the major highlights of the camp. Through the activity, the ward took part in strengthening the young generation through growing their faith and letting them become principled sons and daughters of God. -Nio Quine, M6

S1 Young Women perform for the Primary children

Elders Quorum members of M5 anxiously engage in a good cause

The members of the Elders Quorum and the fulltime missionaries of Marikina 5th Ward conducted a community service to extend their help to a member who had just moved into her new home. The diligent men of the ward particularly helped in excavating the ground, embanking the soil outside the new house and making a trench for its bathroom. It took them more than an hour to get things done. Those who took part in the activity exemplified the love of Jesus Christ as He served others during His mortality. Even though they were not financially compensated for the services that they had rendered, they felt fulfilled knowing that they were able to please our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. -Glory Mae Cinco, M5

The Young Women of Sumulong 1st held a dinner theatre on the first week of September to teach the Primary children how to be clean, responsible and well-behaved at all times. Since the planning of the activity did not only include the program but the storyline and the script for the short play as well, it took the Young Women of the ward the whole month of August to prepare for it. They came up with a story about three unhygienic and ill-mannered children. One

day, a magic fairy showed up to them in a dream and showed them the consequences of their doings. Followed by a bunch of games for the children, the activity was made possible because of the help and support of the leaders of the ward. It was a very fulfilling activity for the Young Women because it helped them accomplish value experiences and projects in their Personal Progress and allowed them to discover more of their talents. -Nikka Ylyssa Basconcillo, S1

Volume I Issue I | September 2012

COLUMNS
Unto Us a Child is Born
Christmas is the most awaited time of the year! As a child, just like any other child, the idea of receiving great gifts, having grandiose parties and meeting Santa Claus appears to be much more appealing than simple dinners and Christmas devotionals. Albeit we celebrate the Lords birthday, it is as if everyones birthday is on that same day too with all the festivities and presents going around for everyone to enjoy! But as a child growing up in the Church, I was always reminded that the reason for Christmas was Jesus Christ. And no matter how grand and festive the celebration was, the real and most meaningful celebration is of the most simple and solemn circumstances. Through the years, my parents always made it a point to gather the family every Christmas eve for a Christmas family devotional. Before our Christmas family dinner, my father would be busy preparing, not with Christmas dinner nor wrapping presents, but preparing and delegating parts for our Christmas devotional. The devotional included hymns and scriptural references that spoke of the birth of the Savior. Each of us was given a task of either singing a hymn, saying a prayer or reading the story of the nativity from the scriptures. My parents explained that we must always remember the real reason for Christmas and it was usually found beneath all the noise and frivolity of what Christmas has become. I may not remember all of what we did during our annual Christmas family devotionals but among other things I remember to this day was the diligence and patience my parents had in preparing and teaching 5 young children of what the real meaning of Christmas was. Before getting caught up with the unwrapping of Christmas presents and feasting on Christmas dinners, we were gently reminded of the reason for the season quietly wrapped in swaddling clothes laid in a lowly manger. Theres nothing wrong with celebrating the Christmas season, we just need to remember what were celebrating. And through the years I have also come to understand that we not only celebrate the birth of Him who saved us all but also do we celebrate the love of a loving Father in Heaven that he gave his only begotten Son that we may be able to be with them again someday. Which I believe is the greatest gift any man can ever receive.

PRIMARY CORNER:

Lead Me, Guide Me, Walk Beside Me: Tips for Parents and Teachers
By K.O. Micairan

The Perfect Gift

Since we all love making our loved ones happy, lets talk about gifts. For the next season of giving, have you already pictured the gifts you want to give and who to give them to? Does that list include your parents or the people who play the parent role in your lives? With this article, I wish to share with you my own idea of a perfect gift for them. Do you know Ella Enchanted? She is a girl with a very unusual gift the gift of obedience. When she was born, a generous but misguided fairy dropped in and bestowed this gift to her. She then said to Ellas mother, now, I have given you a perfect child! Can you imagine how Ellas life has been living with that gift? Everything she is ordered to do, she has to obey even if she didnt want to. Imagine being ordered to slay your prince but you could not refuse! Well, we all received a gift opposite of Ellas the gift of agency from a generous and allknowing Heavenly Father. Jesus, our Savior, even fought for it in the Grand Council of Heaven. But even though we are free to choose our course of action, we are not free to choose the consequences. And some wrong choices may lead to hurtful and irreversible consequences. How do we avoid wrong choices? I suggest we seek counsel from those who know better God, who knows all, our Bishop and other Church leaders and of course, the people who love us most our parents. But do we listen to their counsels attentively? Or do we take them as sermons that go in the right ear and exit to the left? A professor in my review school once said, Listen when I speak. It is then that I pass on to you the best knowledge I have in me. Often, parents scold their children because they can infer from experience that such actions wont bring them any good. After you listen, obey. Not as Ella did, but freely according to your agency to choose. Ive always likened my parents rules to the circle that Rama drew around Sita when he went off to hunt (from the Indian epic Ramayana). As long as Sita stays in the circle, she will be kept safe from the enemy. Satan is always waiting for you to step out of your protective circles, and as long as obedience keeps you inside, you will be safe from his grasps. Wouldn't it be easier for us to obey with this thought in mind? I hope that on top of the material things you are planning to give to your parents for the next season of giving, you also give them a renewed commitment to listen to and obey their counsels. How happy parents would be if their children would listen and obey. Yes, my dear young friends, that is my idea of a perfect gift for your parents this Christmas the gift of obedience.

YOUTH CORNER:

Refiners Gold
By Julie Alberto

Volume I Issue I | September 2012

How do you come to grips with questions pertaining to your sexual purity? Do you respond in a tick, create a stunned silence for seconds till you make up an answer, or just look down at your feet and hover in fear? In our previous issue, I made mention of some guidelines as to how you would know if the person you are currently dating is the one. Now, I am back to break the taboo of sexual purity. Lets face it. Some couples would go to a ton of places too often to date and join their partners in their jaunts and food forays that sometimes, they tend to become too intimate and forget about the boundaries. In such instances, we see how dating can sort of fall into our laps if we are not careful. Funny how I can count with my ten fingers the number of times I had to answer the question Are you still a virgin? when I was a collegian. Add my toes and there you have the number of times I had to see my friends stupefied because of my unshakable YES. It seems that in todays scheme of things, losing sexual purity for failure to curb sexual desire before marriage has already hit the mainstream. As more people our age deem it overrated,

The True Measure of Romantic Love

we hear more of them either auctioning off their virginity online or casually giving it away as a birthday present for their sweethearts, as though it is something that is no good to keep. My dear fellow single adults, I hope you recognize that as Latter-day Saints, we are expected not to cling to the same ideology no matter how outnumbered we are by those who do. Eternal laws are there to govern our lives the way our Heavenly Father expects and wants us to, and while we have the agency to decide between abiding by those precepts or not, it is not in our power to choose the consequences of the things we do. You see, our leaders teach us that moving forward on the love front has boundaries even for married couples; how much more for us whose companionships are not even within legitimate bounds? Sexual purity is not a stocking that you can simply replace or tuck away to gather dust in the attic. It is something that when you lose, you can never get back. Making yourself believe that it is justifiable to lose it out of love may be a fine way to get through a tragedy, but definitely not a way to get through life. In our age, dating generally means falling into relationships with

SINGLE ADULTS CORNER:

Walking on Eggshells
By Vianne Ilagan

men or women we happen to like. But our Heavenly Father does not want us to celebrate our agency at the expense of chastity. Even the most powerful emotion on earth has to learn how to tread guardedly, too. When you commit sexual immorality in the name of love, you spoil love. See, how many couples celebrated the existence of love wrongly and eventually lost their capacity to love, bore children out of wedlock and were emptied of hope? You wouldnt want to lose your prized relationship in a jiffy the way Kristen Stewart lost her dear Robert Pattinson because of her momentary indiscretion, would you? We are all subject to such feelingsthat sudden call of flesh. But that is where the actual challenge isobeying that still, small voice that whispers dont when every part of you hollers do. For you whose heart swells with love for your partner, know that I feel for you. But know too that love is never selfish. If you love your partner, then target the eternities. That is the greatest expression of love. And with that I ask, how pure are you to qualify to enter the house of God?

Making Time for the Family

Living in a fast-paced world, going on a fast-moving schedule, focusing on the worlds technology, and worrying about financial statements seem to hinder individuals from recognizing the things that matter most in this life. We own a company, sadly it blocks our family time, the former times were better when life was simple. My parents work abroad, yet, the technology makes us close to one another, its still a different feeling when they are beside me, My parents are so much in business that the only thing they can do at home is go to bed and rest, my junior students expressed. Of the many financial statements, the family-only time is completely beyond price. I myself have perceived that my students who spend less time with their family tend to fail to accomplish school work, make pointless interruptions during class hours, and make more trouble. Spending more time for meaningful conversations and worthwhile actions make one inspired to do better things, bring the family closer, encourage a positive emotional connection, and make the home a pleasant place to live. My parents usually get home at dinnertime; still, this time makes for a reconnection. We go to church on Sundays, and there is a lovely feeling of togetherness, my students supposed. At times, kids simply dont know the words to express what they feel and what they need from us. The worlds technology is an enchantment to a child, but the mom and dads presence,being able to laugh and play with them is the greatest contentment. Make your child feel he is the best child in the world, and you will feel the Saviours love around you. Sometimes, teenagers hold action-packed schedules in school and with friends. The clock is ticking, and day by day they are growing up, leading off to college, getting married, and having their own responsibilities. Parents and children may be in different directions all day, but we can add more meaning to our time, a family relationship buildinginteraction indeed. Of the busy pace of modern life, the family members might forget the chats and talks but surely the time spent together will echo for years and the family lifes tale will be sweeter. My student once asked me, Maam, when was the last time you had a date with your husband? If you have a son, how long will you spend with him? What if your family is around; how much time will you spend with them? Kulang ang panahon, I responded. The problem is not the time but how we schedule it, realizing the eternal priorities worth living for, if needs be, worth dying for.

FAMILY CORNER:

Happiness in Family Life

By Patricia Quine

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Mission Preparation (with Girlfriend?)

I am pleased to announce that effective immediately all worthy and able young men who have graduated from high school or its equivalent, regardless of where they live, will have the option of being recommended for missionary service beginning at the age of 18, instead of 19 [and] worthy young women at age 19, instead of age 21. This was the announcement our beloved President Thomas Monson made last October 2012 General Conference. When I first heard it, I was thrilled. I thought, He must be close very, very close. Last Papyrus issue, we talked about the importance of sustaining the lifeblood of the Churchthe missionary work. And with the prophets announcement, what do you think should we do next? President Monson said during the April 2010 Conference, Young men, I admonish you to prepare for service as a missionary. I remember a talk I recently had with a friend whos preparing to serve a full-time mission. What preparations did you have before serving your mission?, she asked. The preparation starts when we are young. You will discover it further when you got into the field. Heavenly Father prepares us for our mission even before we feel the desire to go. Seminary and institute also helped me a lot. I worked with the missionaries, studied the scriptures and Preach My Gospel (PMG). Focus your preparation on our Master, Jesus Christ, I answered. When engaging in full-time missionary work, we must prepare ourselves physically, financially, emotionally, socially and most importantly, spiritually. But along with these preparations is the dilemma of those who exclusively date before they reach their mission age Is it okay to have a steady relationship while preparing for a mission? During the YSA Conference 2012, President DelaMare of the Philippines Quezon City Mission discussed the factors that commonly hinder the YM/YW in serving a fulltime mission. He named the stumbling blocks as girlfriend/boyfriend, school/work, and money. Now, is it okay to have a steady relationship before going on a mission? I conducted a mini survey among 30 respondents from youth, SAs and RMs group. 7 of them answered Yes and 23 answered No. The former group defended, love life inspires missionaries. The latter group, on the other hand, said it only distracts. This part of preparation, the deciding part, is a tricky one. I have known a few who married their long-time partners right after they had gone back from the mission field, while I have also known some who decided to break up after their mission. The Lord said, and faith, hope charity and love with an eye single to the glory of God qualify him for the work. That is one of the reasons why even missionaries of old were sent away from their homes. But how do we gauge if a missionary has kept his eye single to His glory? I say, we are not in the position to judge. The Shepherd knows His sheep. He promises kingdoms to those who heed His call. If youre still undecided if it would help you in your preparation, Nephis counsel remains in force today, Have ye inquired of the Lord?

MISSIONARY CORNER:

He Calls You Now

By Rachelle Cabela

MOTHERS AND FATHERS: ON PREPARING THEIR CHILDREN FOR FULL-TIME MISSIONARY SERVICE
Q: How do you prepare your children to go on a full-time mission? A: We introduced our long term family goals to our kids by assigning 1 letter to each of our 3 children: our eldest son, Abel M; 2nd son, Enos T and to our youngest daughter, Honey letter C (MTC). They would always recite these three letters weekly before saying our closing prayers in every family home evening. M stands for Mission, T Temple Marriage and C college diploma. We want our children to accomplish the MTC. We already started preparing them at age 2 or 3. We invite our fulltime missionaries regularly so they can be accustomed to what missionaries do, say and feel and help them feel the spirit of missionary work. If their words, actions and priorities are not leading to MTC, we repeatedly tell them to align themselves properly to the MTC. -Maria Stella Abril, S1 A: We started preparing our two boys when they were young. They have a coin bank and we encourage them to save money for their mission. We also make sure that they dont miss going to church every Sunday. We gave them their own set of scriptures and taught them how important it is. We encourage them to attend all their church activities, including seminary and institute classes. We show them our love, understanding and respect. We do things together as a family, teach them through example. It also helps to spend time to each one of them. We ask them what they want to accomplish in life and we give them points on how they can accomplish them. My husband tells them how exciting and challenging it is to be a full-time missionary. He shares his accomplishments and experiences with them, how it helps him to be a better person. He teaches them also what they are supposed to do as priesthood holders. Also, teaching them how to cook, wash clothes and other household chores can make their life easier while serving a mission. -Analyn Balingit, M4 Q: What obstacles do you face in preparing them? How do you deal with those? A: Actually, there hasnt been many obstacles because he grew up in the church and even at an early age, Sister Balingit and I have already started to prepare him through our example, through teaching him how to pray, how to dress up properly and how to respect women and the elderly. I think one challenge is teaching them how to set their priorities. Sometimes, they spend most of their time playing games on the internet for hours. I may say this is just normal to adolescents but it shouldnt always be the case. So what we did was we gave them time for the games and assigned them tasks in the house after theyre done with their school work. -Herbert Balingit, M4 A: Their desire sometimes cools off. We, parents should be sensitive to recognize it and help them return the proper desires. Absenteeism at seminary and institute classeswe have to tell them again and again the importance of attending seminary and institute classes, help them with their scripture block assignments. Opposite sex attraction is also one. We visit their Facebook accounts regularly and recommend improving them or deleting some things. This is one of the things that we are very much concerned about. However, we somewhat have peace of mind because our eldest son is now serving in Baguio Mission and Enos will report at the MTC on Feb 15, 2013. -Marcelino Abril, Sumulong 1st ward -Rachelle Cabela, M3

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MARIKINA STAKE OFFICERS President: Jose G. Manarin 1st Counsellor: Danilo D. Basconcillo 2nd Counsellor: Ofrecio Y. Corpuz Stake Exec. Sec.: Henry Lacson Stake Clerk: Michael Cirio Asst. Clerk: Stake Patriarch: Reynaldo Raflores Stake Family History Director: Andres Canals STAKE HIGH COUNCILORS 1. Ronaldo Bordeos 2. Ramon Reyes 3. Christopher Trance 4. Allan Joel Borilla 5. Dick Micairan 6. Noriel Villanueva 7. Merille Martin 8. Jessie Lopez 9. Cris Bulaon 10. Gregory Palma STAKE PRIMARY PRESIDENCY President: Belinda Borilla 1st Counsellor: Jean Corpuz 2nd Counsellor: Oliva Estanislao STAKE YOUNG MEN PRESIDENCY President: Adel Villanueva 1st Counsellor: Gerardo Flamingco 2nd Counsellor: Joseph Manarin STAKE YOUNG WOMEN PRESIDENCY President: Ma. Lourdes Andres 1st Counsellor: Lilia Villanueva 2nd Counsellor: Camilla Jean Belleza Secretary: Michelle Rada STAKE RELIEF SOCIETY PRESIDENCY President: Ma. Julieta Burdeos 1st Counsellor: Elizabeth Basconcillo 2nd Counsellor: Sonia Lopez STAKE SUNDAY SCHOOL PRESIDENCY President: Dick Micairan 1st Counsellor: Rommel Paliza 2nd Counsellor: Jasper Basconcillo STAKE PUBLIC AFFAIRS Chairman: Veronica Roni Bertone Community Relations: Deanna Borjal Media Relations: Vianne Ilagan STAKE EMPLOYMENT Director: Sis. Germelina Casaol Specialists: 1. Pamela Nava (Entrepreneurship) 2. Ning Dela Cruz (Training) 3. Cecilia Diamante (Education) 4. Edela Palacsa (Records)

IN THE EYES OF A FUTURE MISSIONARY

(3)now that you are already counting the days till you officially become a full-time missionary. While I was waiting for my mission call, I was excited and nervous at the same time. I had no idea when my mission call would come so I was really on tenterhooks. On the day I got the call and was about to open it, the jumpiness heightened as I wondered where I would be assigned to serve. I remember, my church friends and the bishopric of our ward were all there to witness and take a video of that momentous time in my life. When I opened the envelope, I felt exceedingly happy. I guess no word could ever be enough to describe the joy I felt that day, knowing that God has chosen me to help Him accomplish His great work here on earth. I am blessed to have a lot of friends who are done serving their full-time missions. As they constantly advise me as to what to expect inside the Missionary Training Center (MTC) and the mission field, I feel more excited to serve. I should say I am still nervous, but that doesnt make me feel discouraged in any way. The thought that I was called to serve strengthens me and makes me want to be the best missionary that I can be. I have yet to learn everything that I need to learn in order to be the best, and I know that God will always be with me in this journey. As the scripture says, And it shall be given thee from the time thou shalt go, until the time thou shalt return, what thou shalt do. (D&C 28:15) 3. How are you preparing yourself for your missionary service soon? I try to wake up early and do some exercises in the morning the way full-time missionaries do. I often read and study the Preach My Gospel Missionary Handbook and the Book of Mormon to gain knowledge and have enough confidence to share with other people. Lately, I have also been working with the full-time missionaries of our ward often. Joining them in the field has allowed me to know what to expect once I become a full-time missionary myself. Despite my weaknesses, I am confident that our Heavenly Father will help me get through them. And I will do as the scripture saysto serve him with all my heart, mind and strength. 4. What was your initial reaction when Pres. Thomas S. Monson announced the major change in the churchs age requirement for full-time missionary service (that men can now serve at age 18 and women at age 19)? My initial reaction was WOW. I believe the change in this church policy shall pave the way for our young generation to prioritize serving a full-time mission above anything else. I find it unfortunate that sometimes, the men and women of our church who are already of age to go on a mission tend to drag their feet because of the opportunities that unexpectedly come their way. Instead of preparing to go, they take advantage of these opportunities and let these opportunities get in the way of their missionary service. On another note, the change in policy tells us that indeed, the time is nigh. I feel some sense of urgency. The Lords hands are working double time to introduce the fullness of the gospel to the rest of the world through His missionaries. I am personally grateful that we have Prophet Thomas S. Monson to receive such revelations directly from God. 5. Your message for the young men of our church who are already nearing their missionary age. Our Heavenly Father loves each of you. If you cannot help but think of the obstacles, remember that He will always be there to be with you and He will help you accomplish His marvelous work. Nothing could ever be bigger than His love for you. Go to work because this is the Lords errand and thus should be your priority. -Vianne Ilagan, M1

Bro. Jayson Comilang of Marikina 6th ward is a church convert. A former devout Born Again Christian, he was baptized in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on October 16, 2010, following the reactivation of his mother who had been an inactive member of the Church for about three decades. Last January 26, 2013, Bro. Comilang had to temporarily lay down his guitar and music sheets and leave his family and friends to fulfil what could be his greatest and most important duty to Godto proclaim the gospel message to our brothers and sisters in Iloilo whose lives are still void of the wonderful blessings of the restored gospel of Christ. 1. When did you start to have the burning desire to serve a full-time mission? What primarily motivates you to serve? A strange feeling dawned on me on the day of my baptism. It was the feeling of wanting to go and serve a full-time mission and let the rest of my brothers and sisters experience the joy I felt when I came to know the fullness of the gospel in my life. When I became a member of this church in 2010, I have come to know the importance of baptism through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and His atonement. I told myself, I want to be a part of this work. I knew that my baptism was part of Gods work. I wanted to follow Him as much as I can because I love Him. 2. Tell me something about your feeling (1)while you waited for your mission call, (2)when you got and opened your mission call, and

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THE EDITORIAL BOARD

Jose G. Manarin Chairman Merille Martin High Council Adviser Vianne Ilagan Editor-in-Chief/ Layout Artist Columnists: Vianne Ilagan Rachelle Anne Cabela Kristine Olga Micairan Patricia Reyes Julie Anne Alberto Contributing Writers: Jethro Diamante Michael Bala Merille Martin Rozell Bordeos Armie Nidea Saet Glory Mae Cinco Nikka Basconcillo Mary Esther Polintan

LOVE AND ETERNAL MARRIAGE

stantly, and tell each other how we honestly feel. Then we made a goal on how much to save each month since we only had less than a year to prepare. 5. What primarily motivated you to qualify for celestial marriage? The thought of being with our family for all eternity has always been our goal since we were in primary. We love our family so much and we want to be with them forever in the presence of our Heavenly Father. 6. Compare the way you come to grips with challenges before and after you got married. Before we got married, we tried to prove to each other our own points, and prove that we were right. But when we got married and challenges started coming in, we learned to listen to and consult with each other. We take each challenge as an opportunity for us to communicate more and learn about each other in a much deeper sense. 7. Your greatest realization after you got married. Sherwin: I am so blessed to have a wife like Camilla. Jenny: Life is really worth-living if you have someone to share it with. 8. Your message for the couples of our church who procrastinate their marriage. Sherwin: If you are sure with your partner, get confirmation from the Lord and marry. Being married to the person I love most is the greatest blessing I received in my life. My wife is five months pregnant and we will be having a baby girl sometime in April or May. We are not yet stable financially. We both have to work hard every day so we can provide for our needs and save for our family. We just have to do our part, and have faith that the Lord will help us get through with the challenges. It is challenging but we are extremely happy. There is opportunity for growth and learning in every obstacle. Jenny: Praying and fasting are basic, but essential. If you think you have found your eternal companion, then dont deprive yourselves of the joy that you can have, and the opportunities for you to reach your greatest potential as an eternal family. Reach your dreams together.

Sis. Camilla Jean Belleza and Bro. Sherwin Casaol had been an item for three years before they finally entered into the new and everlasting covenant of marriage in June 2012. See what they have to say about their journey, from the time they hit it off till they finally got hitched. 1. How did you know that he/she was the one you wanted to marry? Sherwin: During the dating stage, we found out about each others likes and dislikes, attitude, level of integrity, etc. I was very happy with her. After asking for confirmation from Heavenly Father, I knew she was the one I wanted to marry. Jenny: There was much fasting and prayer along the process. I felt that Sherwin was the one because every time I think of my

future, he was always in it. And it felt warm inside. I knew it was the Spirit affirming to me that he was the one I should marry. It made me look forward to what life has in store for me. 2. How did you prepare yourself for the new and everlasting covenant of marriage? We prayed always, stayed active in our callings and made promises that wed do our best to qualify for a temple marriage. We dated often in the temple. We also read the scriptures together so that our relationship will be guided. We were aware that once we decided to get married in the temple, the adversary would act double time so we had to be carefully prepared for it. 3. Tell me something about the obstacles you had to face in the course of your preparation, should there be any. Actually, most of the obstacles came during the preparation. First was how to tell our family. It took them by surprise, so our decision was not accepted by everyone right away. It was expected though. Then there was conflict of interests in terms of the wedding details. Money was also somehow an issue because both of us just started working. 4. How were you able to triumph over those obstacles? We held on to each other and had faith that we were doing what the Lord wants us to do. We knew that the temporal things are not as important as our desire to get married in the temple. We kept our eyes on our goal, then prayed and fasted more. We also found it important to communicate con-

MTC-Bound
Received Calls: Rocky Victoriano, S2, Iloilo Mission, March 15, 2013 Enos Abril, S1, Laoag Mission, February 15, 2013 Marilou Andres, S2, Naga Mission, March 1, 2013 Arthur Dalumpines, S2, Bacolod Mission, March 15, 2013 Entered MTC: Sammuel Capoqian, S2, Cagayan de Oro Misson, 15 Dec 2012 Allen Castillo, S2, Cagayan de Oro Mission, 15 Dec 2012 Jayson Comilang, M6, Ilollo Mission, 5 Jan 13 Anna Fuganan, S2, Cauayan Mission, 5 Jan 13 Awaiting calls: Jonan Caluag, M5 Glory Mae Cinco, M5 Application on process: Liahona Andaca, M5 Shan Alfeche, M3

-Vianne Ilagan, M1