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THE O.CARM.-VISAYAS REGIONAL CONVENTION

On October 26-28, 2004, the Carmelites in the Visayas held a Regional Convention
in Escalante City, Negros Occidental with the theme, "Whoever sows bountifully also
reaps bountifully" with a focus on deepening contemplation, nurturing community and
caring service to the people. After the Prior of Escalante, Fr. Christopher Exala,
welcomed the 34 delegates to the gathering, a pilgrimage followed to the significant
places of Carmel Mission in Negros, known as the Cradle of the Carmelite Order in the
Philippines.
1. First stopover: Central Danao, Toboso, Negros Occidental: The first place in Negros
where a Carmelite set foot in 1957 with Fr. Fidelis Limcaco, then a young Fil-Am
Carmelite from the American Province, settled for a while and served the chaplaincy of
Danao Development Corporation, a sugar mill in Northern Negros. Fr. Limcaco left the
Order and was incardinated into the Archdiocese of Manila.

2. Second stopover: Parish of St. Anthony of Padua, Toboso, Negros Occidental. Bishop
Ephipanio Surban of Dumaguete Diocese in 1958 installed the first Dutch Carmelite
Missionaries, to care for the Parish of Toboso and the chaplaincy of Central Danao.

3. Third stopover: Parish of St. Francis of Assisi, Escalante, Negros Occidental. In 1959
the pioneers of the Dutch Carmelite Mission were installed in this old parish started by
the Augustinian Recollects in 1840.
After the pilgrimage, the delegates were divided into three groups to reflect on the Four
Moments of Carmelite LIfe: Group I: Carmelite Friars and Associates on questionaire 1
and 2.

Group 2: (TOC and Youth) and Group 3 (Parish Pastoral Council and Parish Staff of
Escalante City and the Lay Community of Cebu City) on questionaire 3 and 4.
The second day of the Regional Convention was marked by a visit to the wake of Vice
Mayor Adolfo Maguate, a former working student of Mt. Carmel College and former
teacher of the same college before being engaged in politics. who died of kidney failure.
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This is a sign of our mutual connectedness and a consideration of the power of memories
such as our history in Negros Carmel Mission. The discussion on the second day was
focused on the meaning of our involvement: e.g. Why choose Escalante and not Manila
to start with? Why be involved in cooperatives, socio-economic projects, people's
organizations and building Basic Christian Communities? What would be the
implications of Philippine independence as a General Commissariate? The discussion on
our involvement was seen in the context of our response to the demands of the situation
in the light of Carmelite Charism and Tradition and delineated in our ministries of 1.
Vocation Animation and Initial Formati on, 2. School Ministry, 3. Media and
Communication, 4. Carmel Youth Ministry, 5. JPIC, 6. Parish Ministry and 7. Center for
Spirituality. The solidarity night at Cable Beach, where the Carmelites have a cottage,
was a good respite from the heavy discussions morning to afternoon of the second day.
The third day facilitated by Noel Valencia was a clarification of the context of our
offering as Carmelites to the people, the direction of our Order's mission and its
expression considering the different ministries in line with our vision, mission and goal as
Carmelites of the Ancient Observance, known as one of the oldest orders of religious in
Asia. Then, Dr. Abe and Ulysses presented Land Development possibilities after Noel
had presented the meaning of Earth Spirituality. The Convention closed with a liturgy
and an integrated evaluation which higlighted the great contribution of the Dutch
Missionaries in establishing Carmel in the Visayas and the enriching moments of
fraternity and sorrority during the convention that deepened commitment and rootedness
into history and Carmel tradition and charism. Philippine Carmel is alive in the Visayas!
We can hope for future Carmelite Missionaries into other Asian countries.

Only Hope: “The Mindanao Regional Convention”

The proposed three day convention for the first General Chapter of the Order of
Carmelites in the Philippines – Mindanao Region, was from November 16 to 17,
2004.The Convention was inspired with a Lumad motif, since Mindanao is rich with
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different cultures. The massive native decorations, liturgy and program was prepared and
hosted by the Postulants.

The convention started with the concelebrated holy mass presided by Frs. Artemio
Jusayan and Arnel Glodobe. Fr. Sirenio Jaranilla accompanied by Bro. Noel Valencia –
the Order’s external consultant were the facilitators of the Convention. After sharing the
theme, introduction and the objective of the Order in preparation for the First General
Commissariat Chapter, the facilitator presented the content of the convention to be
reflected on by the participants which are the Four Moments of Carmelite life from the
experiences of members of the community and various organizations/groupings as part of
the Spiritual Preparation. The sharing of ideas regarding the concern of different
ministries of the Commissariat in terms of concepts and perspectives followed.

After gathering the thoughts and recommendations from the participants on the subject of
the hopes of the Order, Bro. Noel Valencia delineated the aim of the Convention: To
sum up, “the Community, the Organization and the Institution are the source place and
process through and in which

‘We’ve got to give a little, take a little;

laugh a little, cry a little;
win a little, lose a little.’

That is the story of, that is the glory of love, and being in a community and organization.”
He also synthesized the convention, from our sharing, indeed, we have many quality
seeds to sow. We realize that there are many places to sow the seeds of Carmel in
relation to needs of our mission. For the seeds to grow mature and bear fruit, we need to
have - trust in God, unity in direction, cohesion in the organization, openness of self and
spirit, emphatic listening and understanding of each other, cross cultural sensitivity,
active participation, genuine communication, desire and intent to right the wrong, role
modeling, prayer and discernment. In the time for reaping or harvesting we will taste the
charming fruits of our mission: “Let us continue bearing the charming fruits for the
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kingdom of God by what we are and what we do.” As part of the activity, the
participants visited (floral offering and candle lighting) the gravesite of Hein Vislteren –
the Carmelite priest murdered in 1973. This convention was attended by around 60
participants including the CP-CC, the Agusan friars and associates, Carm OL sisters,
postulants, TOC, PCC and workers, school personnel, Carmel Youth, JPIC, YCPF and
others from the lay communities, The two-day gathering was concluded by a Holy Mass
presided over by Frs. Eddie Albiño and Roberto Noel Rosas.

As a member of the growing community of the Order of Carmelites, the Postulants give
their very best during the formation in order to reap a fruit bountifully.

And the journey continues. . .

The Manila Regional Convention

What better way to start something fruitful than to connect with the past. Thus, the
Manila regional convention opened with a pilgrimage to San Sebastian Church. It was a
trip back in time as Fr. Emerito Buñao, OAR, Prior of the community highlighted
important historical facts about the coming of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel to the Philippines
in early 1600. It also served to reveal the good relationship developed by the Augustinian
Recoletos and the Carmelites.

Fr. Artemio Jusayan, O. Carm, was the main event facilitator

The four moments of Carmel Life was the focus of the day’s discussion. Guide questions
were given to focus the sharing and reflection among the participants. The participants
were divided according to groups: friars, student friars and novices, TOC and co-workers.

On the second day, the reports and sharing by clusters were presented. The four moments
of Carmel life were presented by using the mysteries of the Holy Rosary - Joyful,
Sorrowful, Luminous and Glorious.
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The birth of the TOC and being a part of it served as their joyful moments as a Carmelite.
Sufferings and sorrows such as coming close to quitting because of family problems and
difficulty in balancing time and agonizing moments because of other members
challenged others to be a Third Order Carmelite. Allowing themselves to be a TOC
compensates for everything.

As their contribution, TOC introduced and deepened the value of tithing, a kind of
financial stewardship for a sustainable economic base to assist the Order. They also gave
importance to the deep relationship between the Recolects and Carmelites so that they
plan to invite the Recolects to the Carmelite Family Day as one of their projects this year.

The co-workers felt joy by the mere fact of journeying with the Carmelites. They
expressed feeling at home, the chance to travel, meet with the communities and interact
with them as some of their joys. They sometimes have difficulty adjusting to the
attitudes, moods of some friars, there were also unresolved issues and fears and absence
of systematic personnel development. Thus, there were hopes of a more affirming
ambiance. It was glorious for them when they are appreciated, recognized for their
contributions and trusted.

On the other side, the student-friars felt that they joy of being a Carmelite revolves
around the growth and support given by the communities and the Order. The feeling of
being accepted and a part of the journey despite difficulties, making decisions of their
own, opportunities to be with people, discovering oneself and consolation of joy and
discoveries were also a part of the joys. Though they have difficulties adjusting
academically from the standard to the modular system of ICTC. They found hope by
opportunities to live life in relation to the poor, relationship with God, continuing
apostolate and getting inspiration from the people. Glory is great when they get to apply
their learning, being in touch with their prayer life, deepening of faith manifested in
action and the inspiration to continue with the chosen life.
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Contributions were evident in their continuous journey of becoming a Carmelite, their

presence within the community, giving full attention to studies and harnessing potentials
and skills to be shared.

The friars experienced joys through appreciation and celebration of community life, when
there were venues of openness, quality sharing, expressions of the journey of life, talents
and involvement of various apostolates and the richness of the Filipino Carmelite history.

Manifestations of contributions were in the ministry of teaching, in the field of

spirituality, development of a strong province, mission in Asia, psycho-spiritual
endeavors, broadening of perspectives in community life, journeying with students, the
option and integration with the people, inter-faith dialogue and contemplation.

On the third day, ministries were the focus. The clusters identified during the first day
were also used during the discussion on the ministries. Ministries discussed were:
vocation-animation, JPIC, YCPF, TBCMP, Carmel Youth, CSM, Mission in Asia,
administration/finance and earth spirituality.

Proposals and suggestions were given by each cluster and they vouched for their
participation in their chosen ministries.

All the clusters have identified the importance of the continuous formation and evaluation
of the formator. The Carmel Youth ministry, on the other hand, should have a clear
program and training of a fulltime youth organizer. For YCPF, marketing strategies,
fund-raising activities and a massive membership drive should be established and
developed.

TBCMP and CSM should be more appreciated for their efforts and must continue on
module making. It was also mentioned that the Spirituality Forum is a positive venue for
self-enhancement.
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The solidarity night was held the evening of the second day with fun numbers from the
different Manila communities. The celebration was held at Crispin Hall of Titus
Brandsma Center as well as the convention from November 26-28, 2004.

MEDIA EDUCATION SERIES 2004 ENDED

This productive year of TBCMP has finally ended in November at the same time looking
forward to another fruitful 2005. Here are some of the highlights as the Media Education
Series 2004 of TBCMP came to a close:

1. October 25 - 30: A workshop on Literary Dialogue and Basic Theatre was given to the
students of Mount Carmel College of Agusan del Sur both the high school and college
and the Carmelite Postulants. The week-long workshop was facilitated by Jofti A. Villena
and Abbe S. May of Fullhouse School of Performance and Creative Arts.

It was a two-part workshop with the morning session focused on literature and literary
dialogue, a concept patterned after the film dialogue conceptualized by TBCMP.

The afternoon session was slated for Basic Theatre Workshop where the participants
tested their acting abilities and alertness in given situations. They laughed and danced
their heart away with the exciting exercises and activities given them. There was a
culminating activity on the morning of the 30th where the participants prepared two
presentations, an ethnic dance and a drama. Guests of the participants were overwhelmed
by their display of talent and creativity.

The over-all theme for the course given was entitled panitikan@titusbrandsma: Literary
Dialogue and Basic Theatre was Mindanao: In the Eyes of its People. The
activity emphasized the participants' representations of Mindanao and themselves as
dwellers.
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2. November 7-13: Cagayan de Oro leg of the Media Education Series.

A. “The State of Philippine Media and the Challenges of Social Communication towards
Evangelization” course was conducted in Sta. Cruz Parish, PN Roa Subdivision,
Calaanan, Cagayan de Oro City. It was attended by parish workers and members of the
ministries of the parish.

A course on Film Dialogue was shared with first and second year vocational students of
the Cagayan de Oro and Bugo School of Arts and Trade - COBSAT. On the third day,
parish workers and lay ministers from a nearby parish attended the course on Media and
Evangelization also at COBSAT.

B. The Xavier University- High School department in coordination with the Parents-
Students-Teachers-Auxilliary Group (PSTAG) invited TBCMP to offer a course on
Introduction to Film Dialogue for the third and fourth year high school students. They
were able to actively engage in the film and the discussions despite of time limitations.

“Parenting in the Multimedia Age” was presented to the parents of the Xavier
highschool students serving as the culminating activity of TBCMP in Cagayan de Oro.
This was a module especially designed for parents today and the challenges posed by the
multimedia age.

The activities in Cagayan de Oro were made possible through our Carmelite associates
Arnold and Lorna Van Vugt. Facilitators were Fr. Christian Buenafe, O.Carm., Bro.
Arnold Alindayu, O.Carm. Ms. Jofti Villena and Ms. Maria Rowena Ladaga.

3. November 18-20: Davao Media Education Series

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It was a second time around for TBCMP at Assumption College of Davao. On the first
day, elementary and high school students were the participants for a half day each. They
were given the “Introduction to Film Dialogue” course.

The second day was for the members of the faculty. TBCMP also designed a module for
them entitled “Teaching in the Multimedia Age” which would eventually be very useful
for TBCMP in the succeeding seminars.

Parents were also invited on the last day for the course, “Parenting in the Multimedia
Age.”

Simultaneous with these courses, “Teatro't Panitikan: An Introduction to Literature and

Basic Theatre” was given to the English Culture Arts Club of the school, the official
dramatic guild club. Facilitated by Ms. Jofti A. Villena, the workshop ended with the
audition of the members of the guild for the major roles in the play “A Portrait of An
Artist as a Filipino” by Nick Joaquin.

4. November 24-26: Caraga Region: Surigao City –Butuan City Youth Congress

The president of the Council of Deans for Teachers Education - Caraga Region, Fr.
Gabriel Dolotina, O. Carm and the Commission on Higher Education- Caraga region
invited TBCMP to present on Media in Education for the student- teachers’ congress
held in the cities of Surigao and Butuan. The theme was "Education Revolution:
Mentoring the Mentors." This youth congress with student-teachers as
participants, lasted for three days.

The first day was held at St. Paul's University-Surigao with the second and third day
being held at Balanghai Hotel-Butuan. Fifty- two colleges and universities from Caraga
region attended, reaching close to two thousand participants.

TBCMP gave an interactive session on “Teaching in the Multimedia Age.”

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Indeed 2004 was a promising year. The official website of TBCMP (www.tbcmedia.org)
was launched last December 11, 2004 during the pelikula@titusbrandsma Christmas
party.

CAPTIONS for Pictures (pls. note)

Balanghai-Butuan (filename: balanghai 019)

Second and Third youth congress was held at the Balanghai Hotel in Butuan. Fr.
Christian Buenafe, O.Carm (Fr. Toots) as he delivers points on teaching in the
multimedia age.

Marawi-IC (filename: marawi-ic 002)

Parents of the students from Xavier Highschool listened attentively during Fr. Toots talk
on Parenting in the Mulitmedia Age.

BALITAAN - BALITAAN - BALITAAN - BALITAAN - BALITAAN - BALITAAN

1. ESCALANTE COMMUNITY

TOWARDS CO-RESPONSIBILITY AND SELF-SUFFICIENCY

An awareness of one's responsibility to the sustenance of the local Church was

instilled in the 250 participants of the Parish of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in a Tithing
Seminar on November 7, 2004. Held at the spacious MCC Gym, Escalante City, Negros
Occidental, the participants discussed in their workshops the meaning of co-responsibility
and self-sufficiency which would enhance their spirituality of stewardship. Jimmy Cabag
and Thelma Francisco skillfully facilitated the worskhop and seminars in order to open
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the eyes of the participants. The people who were accustomed to dole-outs because of
the old type of sharing in the Church during the early Catholic Mission in Escalante, were
gradually oriented to a more active participation in Church dynamics through their
sharing of time, talent and treasure. The usual stress on treasure sharing is now
broadened to the sharing of their "heart-percent"(i.e., shar ing with love) of time, talent
and treasure for the well-being of the Church and for the greater glory of God. The fruits
of this seminar still remain to be seen in the future qualitative participation of the people
for the self-sufficiency program of the parish.

VENDORS DIALOGUE

Due to the situation in Escalante City where vendors no longer have gainful
activity because the market was under construction and they were transfered to a
temporary market at the habitat, the vendors protested. The fish vendors held a series of
dialogues with the City Government of Escalante on November 18 and 24, 2004. The
parish priest, Fr. Christopher Exala, O.Carm. attended the dialogues together with the
other civil leaders of the City. These turned out to be peaceful events in spite of the hot
issues presented, thanks to the cooler heads who helped clarify the issues and the
problems with their proper context and perspective.

PARISH YOUTH SPORTS DEVELOPMENT

MCPYO (Mount Carmel Parish Youth Organization) initiated a sports development in

the different zones of the parish. Every week-end the different zones had a basketball
and other sports activities and this made the youth more active in GKK(Basic Christian
Communities) dynamics. The chapel leaders also learned that through the sports
activities, the problem of drug addiction has lessened.

PARISH CHOIR DEVELOPMENT

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Our seminarian from San Alberto- Cebu, Bro. Sheldon Tabile presented a seminar -
training for the members of the five choirs of Escalante from November 27 to 29, 2004.
The members of the different choir groups were happy to learn new songs but also the
fundamentals of Music. Proper song selections for the different liturgical seasons,
especially the Advent and the Christmas Season was highlighted. They are expecting that
another follow up will transpire for an "advanced" training on choir singing.

ESCALANTE HAS ONE OF THE BIGGEST DELEGATIONS TO HUMAN RIGHTS DAY

CELEBRATION IN BACOLOD CITY.

Unlike the last three years wherein the people of Escalante participated in the Human
Rights Day celebration in San Carlos City, this year they joined the rallyists for the
December 10, 2004 event at Bacolod City. Fr. Paul Medina, O.Carm. and Associate
Rizalina Ombi-on represented the Carmelites in celebrating the 56th anniversary of the
universal declaration of human rights. In this event, Escalante, which mobilized more
than 500 people for human rights day march and rally, had one of the biggest delegation.
TITUS BRANDSMA STUDENT FRIARY HOUSE (St. Elijah Student Friary House)

The community conducted a General Assembly for the second semester. Bro, Rodrigo
Bautista, Jr., O.Carm. was elected as the new Coordinator and Bro. Junnel Ryan Denolo,
O.Carm. as the assistant coordinator. The present students of the Inter-Congregational
Theological Center (ICTC) are not affected by the institutional changes that will take
effect this coming June. They will still receive their Diploma from Our Lady of Angels
Seminary. Incoming students who will enter in June 2005 will get their Diploma from St.
Joseph College since ICTC will become the Faculty of Theology of the said school.

The five second-year as well as the only fourth-year student-friars returned to their
respective pastoral areas on November 8, 2004, while the third-year student-friars
resumed their classes on the same date. Bro. Arnold Alindayu, O.Carm. is enrolled at
University of Santo Tomas to continue his studies while Bros. Jerry Cañas, Philip
Rabosa and Joel Comaling are now students of the Institute of Formation and Religious
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Studies (IFRS). Bro. Benedicto Zaragosa is undergoing a modular training in Organic

Farming in Aklan. .

The month of December is always a very colorful month. The terrible damage brought
about by the two typhoons that hit Quezon province in some pastoral areas caused death
and destruction in the communities . The fate of our brothers and sisters in various areas
challenged the student-friars and the rest of the ICTCians to forward their “doing
theology” with the people. The second year ICTCians after their exposure responded to
the cause of typhoon “Winnie”, through the organized response set by the ICTC. They
went to the area and organized the people since there was a difficulty in distributing the
relief. The rest of the community brought the relief goods on December 10, 2004,
Human Rights Day. We felt happy not because of the gratitude but that we were able to
share some hope with the people.

Some of the student-friars were having their immersion when the tragedy occurred. Bros.
Allan Hinatuan and Domingo Beato experienced the terrible landslide and muddy flood.
Different stories have been recounted about our brothers.

The second-year students finished their ethnographic study through community

validation. Bros. Allan Hinautan and Domingo Beato validated on November 29, Bros.
Gerald Flor Gutierrez and Junnel Ryan Denolo on December 5 in the morning and Bro.
Realino Hermo in the afternoon. Congratulations brothers and well done!

The community was out for a series of nights for Caroling. The community is proud to
say that despite the hectic schedule; classes during the day and caroling at night, we were
able to extend our hands to distant brothers and sisters who were victims of typhoons.
Student-friars Christmas vacation was on Dec. 18, 2004.

AGUSAN COMMUNITY
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1. An echo seminar on the Mindanao Sulo Pastoral Conference XII (MSPC) was called
by our Diocese on December 10-11, 2004. The regional conference was held in
Koronadal, Cotabato on November 2004. This conference is held every three years .
MSPC XII had the theme: “Peace and Good Governance.”

The echo seminar was participated in by two lay delegates and parish priests from every
parish. The theme called for a review of how the government and the church governance
work. All the participants were encouraged to discuss the topic and actively participate
in the call for peace through good governance. The highlight of the seminar was the call
to search for alternative systems of governance.

A speaker was invited to speak on the Federal System of Government which he believed
is the best alternative for the Philippines given our geographical condition. The system
according to him has been working for a long time in the U.S. and many countries of
Europe and Asia. The Philippines is stuck with a system introduced by the U.S. for its
colonies in order to facilitate revenue and tax collection but at the same time promotes
corruption and delay of projects since transactions have to be centralized in Metro
Manila.

JPIC NEWS

2. A fact finding mission participated in with our community together with our
Postulants, was carried out in Balit, San Luis, Agusan del Sur in Dec. 13, 2004. The
objective was to see and investigate whether the accusations of the “Lumads” as
documented were true and valid.

The “Lumads” in Balit have accused the military of abusing their rights through
disrespect and insults of their culture and by intruding into their domain by staying in
their houses and by implementing their so-called housing project for the surrenderees
inside their barangay without proper consultation to the civilian and tribal leaders. Their
continued presence since November 19, 2004 in spite of the strong opposition of the
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people has created tension, fear, intimidation and restlessness especially among the
women and some of them have refused to go back to their homes being occupied by
soldiers.

The RGS Sisters, the Promotion of Church People’s Response (PCPR), Fr. Gilbert
Sabado, O.Carm., and other support groups from Manila arrived in the middle of the
protest action by the barrio people, a majority of whom were “lumads”. They marched
around with placards and shouted their opposition and accusations against the military
who remained indifferent and silent.

The team talked with the people and was able to confirm and verify the accusations of
the people as true and had basis. The team proposed to the military and the people and
with the presence of the fact-finding team to conduct a forum where people could voice
their opposition to the military presence in their area and present their demands for the
military to leave their barrio.

During the forum, the barrio captain and sector “Datu” was able to express in strong term
why they suspect the military both in the past and in the present. The military, according
to them, were insulting their culture by not consulting the leaders and the people and
implementing their housing project which according to the lumad is not what they need.
What they need is assistance to cultivate their farms and make their lands productive.
Even if they are suspect-rebel supporters, they maintain that they are law abiding and
know their legal rights and have a good standing with their municipal mayor and
councilors, some of whom were present.

The military insisted that what they are doing is for the good of the people and accused
the people behind the protest actions as being anti-military and influencing the people to
protest against the military. They would not leave the place unless told so by military
higher-ups. The team insisted that the rights of people should be heard in a democratic
government. The authority of the people cannot be disregarded without consent of the
people.
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The team approached the mayor who planned to convene the Municipal Peace and Order
Council and bring the case to the governor and the brigade commander for resolution of
the issue.

NEWS FROM KARITH POSTULANCY

December 2004 is another “challenge” for the postulants to encounter, why? The
formation team decided to send them to a “work exposure” at the Filipinas Palm Oil
Plantations Inc., in the nearby town of - Rosario, Agusan del Sur.

Eight of them were divided into two groups. The first group was assigned to the field
area of the plantation and the second group to work inside the mill. The task of the four
postulants who were assigned in the field area was to pick “lost fruits” of the palm oil
tree and clean its surroundings. The other four postulants were working inside the mill
where they helped in the process of making and producing “crude palm oil” as the
product of the company.

This immersion was to be a one-month experience for the postulants and they were
housed in the homes of the workers of the company itself. They will be
celebrating Christmas with their foster families up until the New Year!

Center for Spirituality - Manila Corner

The Center for Spirituality-Manila (CSM) had a blessed year in 2004. Its research
program currently supports seven (7) on-going research projects at different levels of
development. There were also two (2) completed research projects and the respective
output is now with the Center.

1.0 On-going Research Projects

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.1 Filipino Migrants in the Netherlands: an Exploration of the Influence of Spirituality on

Well-being.

Research Fellow: Drs. Rico P. Ponce, O.Carm of the University of Nijmegen, The
Netherlands.

.2 Spirituality and the Social Movement

Research Fellows: Prof. Ton Danenberg with Prof. Dr. Carlos Ronquillo, CSsR , Prof.
Dr. Jose de Mesa, Prof. Maurice Piers, Prof. Emelina Villegas, ICM, Prof. Diego
Quejada and Mr. Noel Valencia.

.3 Missionary Spirituality of those working with Philippine

Indigenous Peoples

Research Fellow: Dr. Leonardo Mercado, SVD of the Episcopal Commission for Inter-
religious Dialogue of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (ECID-CBCP)

.4 An Inquiry Into The Empowering Spirituality Among

Mindanawon Religious Involved In Urgent Pastoral Ministries

Research Fellow: Dr. Carlito M. Gaspar, CSsR of the Redemptorist

Community In Mindanao

. 5 An Ethnographic Study on the Spirituality of Leadership

of Alangan Mangyans of Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro

Research Fellow: Prof. Dr. Esmeralda Sanchez of the University of Sto. Tomas -Social
Research Center
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.6 Towards Effecting a Personal Growth Process for Social Transformation in the

Prelature of Libmanan, Camarines Sur: A Study on the Spirituality of pastoral Workers in
the Basic Ecclesial Communities.

Research Fellow: Prof. Dr. Mina Ramirez, of the Asian Social Institute

.7 Mystic or Mistake - Exploring Filipino Mysticism: The Case of Quiapo

Research Fellow: Dr. Teresita Obusan of Bahay Nakpil-Bautista

2.0 Completed Research Projects

.1 Integrative Asian Filipino Spirituality of Indigenous

Healing Practices.

Research Fellows: Dr. Sonia Punzalan, RC and Fr. Efren Borromeo, SOLT of Bahay
Dalangin ( A Christian-Zen Center in Manila)

.2 An Attempt to Filipinize the Concept of the Open Space in the Concept and
Experience of Loob

Research Fellow: Fr. Esmeraldo Reforeal, O.Carm of the Melbourne College of Divinity,
University of Melbourne, Australia

3.0 In-House Research Project: CSM conducted its own in-house research
project, a Survey-Inventory of Spirituality Studies in the Philippines. The main project
objective was to find out what areas/themes or focus in the field of Spirituality in the
Philippines have been studied by researchers; to identify the methodologies used; and to
identify the gaps in the studies conducted i.e. what areas, aspects or issues are not
explored.
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An initial output of this project was presented during the Colloquium on Research
Methodologies in the Study of Spirituality in the Philippines on June 28-30, 2004. This
is an on-going study by the CSM research staff.

CSM calls for more meaningful research proposals from relevant institutes. For inquiries
of the Research Guidelines, please contact the Research Coordinator at spirit@tri-
isys.com.

SPIRITUALITY FORUM V

This Year’s Forum will focus on the dynamics of Spirituality and the dialogue of

faiths from among the different faith traditions in Asia. CSM hopes to invite

experts in indigenous, Islamic, Hindu, Buddhist and emerging spiritualities in Asia

as resource persons.

Dates: August 1,2, & 3, 2005

Theme: Spirituality and Inter-faith Dialogue

Venue: Metro Manila

Target participants: General Public interested in interfaith dialogue

For more details: Contact The Secretariat at spirit@tri-isys.com

CARMELITE STUDY SERIES on Interfaith Dialogue

This course hopes to provide a space for the Carmelites in the Asia-Oceania region

to confront themselves and deal with the reality of diversity of faiths in Asia and to

reflect what the Carmelite Spirituality can offer within this diversity.
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Dates: August 5, 6 &7, 2005

Theme: Carmelite Spirituality and Inter-faith Dialogue

Venue: Metro Manila

Target participants: members of the Carmelite Family

For more details: Contact The Secretariat at spirit@tri-isys.com

Visit of Fr. John Malley, O. Carm

Fr. John Malley, O. Carm made his seventh visit to the Philippines since 1985 which
gave him the opportunity to “renew many wonderful friendships.”

Former general of the Order, Fr. John is now into Campus Ministry at Salpointe
Carmelite High School Tucson, Arizona. Aside from that, he is also working as fulltime
director of the Carmelite Missions in Darien, Illinois.

His visit was primarily to visit Carmelite cloistered monasteries, giving conferences on
the Year of the Eucharist and on Mary. He also visited the Carmelite Sisters of Our Lady
for the blessing and dedication of Carmel Center where he met with his former friends -
friars, nuns, sisters and laity.

His short message for the Order of Carmelites in the Philippines emphasized the
remarkable progress made by the Carmelite friars since his initial visit. According to Fr.
John, a clear manifestation of this progress is the “outstanding compound” on Acacia
Street. Thus, this made “a very significant presence in the theological/spiritual
development of candidates to religious life as well as in the pastoral ministry of the
Philippine Church.”
 21

After his visit, he will go back to Tucson to continue his work in the campus ministry and
hopes to visit again the Philippines in two to three years time.

And I Said: “Lord, Your Will Be Done”

a reflection on the incident of the lanslide in Quezon
by Bro. Domingo “Nonoy” Beato, O.Carm.

My two months exposure and research for ethnographic study in the

Municipality of Real, Quezon Province was my most exciting and unforgettable
experience of my life. Who can forget not only the tragic and violent destruction
of mountains caused by landslides but also the landscape of the place perfectly
designed by the magnificent and powerful hand of the Almighty above? The
green mountain ranges hide its inner beauty with much of nature’s wealth of
plants and wild animals, rivers, and springs that refresh one’s feeling and ease
tiredness whenever you come and visit the place. Countless bikers untiringly
come again and again to witness the beauty of the paradise and feel the gentle
cool morning breeze. Who could imagine that this beautiful place would turn into
a graveyard of so many innocents and bring so much suffering to countless lives
within only a few minutes?

29 November 2004 was the last day of our ethnographic study and our
findings and recommendations were offered to the people of Barangay Tanauan.
The day before was already difficult for us to stay outside due to heavy rains. The
people were not bothered by the situation because for them, it was just ordinary
weather. I also was not bothered because I am already at ease with strong
typhoons since I have experienced great downpours in our province of Bicol.

Unaware of the oncoming danger, we finished our presentation to the

people of Tanauan even with the harshness of the weather is outside. With
blessings from above, the current of electricity was only cut off after our
presentation and then the people who attended the validation went home to
 22

safety. The strongest recommendation we gave to the people was to stop

abusing nature by carelessly cutting trees to sustain their living because this
would bring danger to their lives when the time comes and not one tree is to be
found. Our request was put in a very beautiful passage that says, ” Let us think
of the future. Let us take care of nature”.

When we stepped out of the Barangay hall and saw how bad the weather
was, I began to feel strange especially when I saw the creek overflowing with
chocolate-colored mud and water. My fear increased when I started to hear
stones carried away by the strong current of the small creek going towards the
highway opposite the house where we were staying. It was the start of the people
panicking because the mountain was beginning to erode from top with great
masses of mud and big stones that totally destroyed some houses. I could not
imagine how the heavy downpour would bring disaster to the people. Hearing the
rumbling sound of colliding stones would paralyze your nerves and make you
unable to move without confusion because we didn’t know where to go for safety.
The darkness of night made us unable to go anywhere and hindered us from
seeking a safer place except to go the nearby houses where we had first stayed.

Unaware of the massive destruction occurring in the entire town and

neighboring towns, I prayed that no one would be hurt when the massive
landslide stopped, but that nature was only trying to remind everyone that what
we were trying to say and ask from the people was true and nature only affirmed
our recommendation. That moment of doubt and confusion heightened by fear
made me also confront myself on how ready I was to face instant death. I kept
imagining how painful our death would be if the hill beside us started to collapse
and buried us all but a single thought filled my mind that if it is God’s will, then I
will accept it with great pleasure.

The incident brought big questions for me that somehow affected my very
vocation; questions that demand an immediate answer and questions that
 23

increase the confusion and uncertainty. It was always my family I had in mind
during and after the incident. My effort to extend and offer myself unselfishly to
the affected individuals enabled me to look back and see my own loved ones
who were also in despair at that very moment waiting for help but no one was
around and I was not able to help except through prayers. Do prayers help even
if there\s nothing one can do? Much to my surprise, I witnessed four persons
coming out alive from the rubble, as they had been buried for ten days under a
collapsed building in the nearby barangay of Tignoan.

I know that there is a great deal of wisdom that the incident imparted to
me. My will to follow Him is now challenged even more to extend my lengthy
arms to reach out to those who are in great difficulty and discomfort, to let my
heart love those who are in despair and like me, tempted to lose hope in helping
the immediate family.

I know this incident has been permitted to happen by the Lord for me to
strengthen my vocation and ease the doubts that continuously assail and
confuse my mind, to love more and more the people not only my family but those
whom I always encounter and am always with. How I would always hope that in
times like these there would be nothing I can say but, “Your will be done”!

LETTER to the EDITOR ON ILLEGAL LOGGING

We, the friars and associates of the Order of Carmelites-Philippines, convey our
sympathy to and mourn with the hundreds of bereaved families and loved ones of those
who lost their lives and survivors of the calamity that until now are still suffering from
trauma and nothingness as their property and source of livelihood were swept away by
successive typhoons. Their ordeal we saw on TV and read on newspapers is too much to
imagine. It was a tragedy that must challenge each one of us Filipinos to shout in one
 24

voice NEVER AGAIN! Never again to the greedy loggers and government officials who
have no teeth to implement the law to protect the lives of many. Never again to
indifference to the lamentation of our people and the destruction of our mother earth.
Justice must prevail.-justice to God’s creation and right human
relation.
The agony and pains of the victims have moved us together with the rest of the Filipino
people to echo our voice. We are extremely and utterly indignant against the destroyers,
plunderers and polluters of our mountains, forests and rivers. We condemn the
perpetrators- the big logging companies and corporations and greedy individuals, who
wrought havoc to our already-dying environment, whose sole interest is to satisfy their
ravenous lust for wealth and the interest of the capitalist countries.

The call for justice runs like torrents demanding to prosecute the ones responsible for the
devastation of our mountains especially in the areas of Nakar, Infanta, Dinggalan, and
Real. The souls of the victims including our brother priest Charlito Colendres, the
chancellor of the Prelature of Infanta, cry out loud to high heaven for justice-
PROSECUTE THE IRRESPONSIBLE AND GREEDY LOGGERS AND THE
GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS WHO CONSPIRE. Bring them into the court that favors
nobody but seeks only righteousness before all the people and before God.

With utter aversion, we question the capacity of the government to make and implement
laws that protect our already-devastated environment and the lives of our poor brothers
and sisters. We dare our Government officials to unreservedly exercise their
responsibility with utmost sincerity and transparency. We urge them to remember the
oath they pledged before the Filipino people. Who among them can remain unmoved
and untouched by the tragedy that befell the lives of the suffering poor of Quezon and
Aurora provinces? Can they not feel the pains that reverberate into the path of their
conscience asking each one of us what have we done? Political will is not just a concept
to believe but a commitment to live. Our Government officials are accountable to the
majority of the Filipino people and not to the few with vested interest. The continuous
 25

devastation of our environment speaks of the gross neglect of responsibility of those

entrusted. With those who have a clear conscience who can allow this?

The courageous deed of Fr. Charlito Colendres is a great reminder for us church people to
give witness to our calling. Fr. Cha had given his unconditional share; he died in serving
those in need, forgetting himself, so that others may live. It is our turn, therefore, to give
witness to what we vowed before God to be the voice in the wilderness- to defend the life
of the people especially the poor and mother earth even if it means losing our own life.

JPIC-Commission
General Commissary Of Titus Brandsma-Philippines
Order of Carmelites
3rd Floor Teresa Building
28 Acacia St.,New Manila, Quezon City

YCPF CORNER

Another year has ended and we are grateful to the Pledgers and benefactors of the YCPF
locally and abroad. The year 2004 was very fruitful because of your moral and financial
support. I am so grateful to the members of the YCPF board; Frs. Antonio de la
Cruz, Christian Buenafe, Sireneo Jaranilla, Atty. Felix Sison, Ms. Diana Malig, Ms. Ned
Tangan and Fr. Aristarco Escobal for your constant and inspiring support for the YCPF
projects. To our consistent benefactors thank you very much.

· A hearty thanks to our Second Order, the Carmelite Nuns in Tarlac, Guiguinto,
Cabanatuan, Burgos and Tanay for their prayers and support for the YCPF.

· To the Third Order of Carmel headed by their National Prioress Sr. Nimfa Tanjuanco,
TOC and the local community TOC Priors and Prioresses and with Fr. Sirenio as their
National Spiritual Director for their enormous support to the foundation.
 26

· A hearty thanks to YCPF local core group; Noel Rosas, Fe Cyprian, Pennie, Ging, Bebie
for Agusan; Max, Joepacs and Tonette Sadaya for Cebu; Linda, Febe, Zenaida, Dra.
Tancinco for Escalante; Sr. Jacka and for Dumaguete.

· YCPF received an invitation letter from the Diocese of Joliet, Illinois to be the recipient
of their charitable activity during the "Simbang Gabi". Fr. Mario Quesadas forwarded the
invitation, upon the endorsement of the Filipino TOC, and PPC members Johnny/ Bess
Toralba and Lino who are now based in Illinois. Fr. Aris Escobal, O.Carm., the YCPF
Director and with the approval of the Superior and Council left for the US on Dec.3.

· The trip was very successful, thanks to the pastors most especially the organizers of the
Simbang Gabi headed by Frs. Mario and Sonny, our very own Filipino priests who
belong to this diocese, and all the people of the Eastern Cluster of DUPAGE county in
the Diocese of Joliet, who are supportive of Filipino Carmelite vocations through YCPF.
Special mention to my Hosts Johnny and Besss Torralba (from Bohol) and Lino
Castanares (from Cebu) who were always with me and drove me to the different
churches during my stay in Illinois. I would also like to mention the Carmelite Tertiaries
Delia, Josie, Inday Jung, and Yolly Escobar who shared their time and effort
with me during the activity.

· Fr.Aris Escobal,O.Carm., facilitated the Retreat of the TOC-Tarlac chapter. After their
meditative and fruitful retreat, the community decided to support the YCPF projects
headed by Dr.Ben Syguan, TOC to recruits pledgers and benefactors as well as to
conduct a "mission appeal" in the Cathedral of Tarlac sometime in February 2005.

· I am very grateful to the YCPF supporters who always support our mass cards outlets
Through the effort of Bro. Gerry Canas, O.Carm., the YCPF has expanded their
mass card outlets to Pandayan Religious Bookstores with 15 outlets in Northern Luzon.
 27

2005 JANUARY Birthday Celebrants

January

2 Sr. Erlinda Guivara, TOC

Analisa Munoz

5 Ana Diaz De Rivera

Sr. Clariza Hamoy, TOC
Heidi Bobis

6 Adoracion Uyejara

9 Angelica Clemente
Jo Ann Yabut

11 Judith Salamat

13 Emilia Hilario, TOC

Carmelina Ballares

15 Evelyn Uyejara, TOC

16 Priscila Sera Josef

18 Rebecca Naui
Sr. Normandita Miralles, TOC

19 Marina Corral
 28

20 Clarita Mae Palad

21 Sr.Crisanta Alimagno, TOC

Inocencia Garcia

22 Ma. Luisa Diaz de Rivera

24 Gigi Piedad
Virginia Bautista
Olivia Maconachy

25 Maria Ejerta
Edelmiro Quibilan
Sr.Flocerfina S. Gines, TOC

26 Mrs. Quibilan
Ruby Villarin

27 Ruffi Kurt

28 Leticia Rodriguez

29 Teresita Caluscusan
Lourdes Racelia

30 Sr. Violeta Veneracion,TOC

31 Mrs. Antonia Jadulko

Crisanta Tolentino
Zenaida Enguanzo
Saturnina Luzada
 29

2005 February Birthday Celebrants

February

1 Sr. Dadly Palacio

2 Sr. Teresita Malanum, TOC

Wilfredo Tan Ang King Tian
Laura Castro

4 Roland Koppel
Sr. Gelacia Lagrito, TOC

5 Sr. Sofia Locsin

11 Lourdes Catan
12 Dra. Herminia Sta.Ana
Ronald Pascycel

14 Sr.Carmen Santos, TOC

17 Ma. Zenaida Carranceja, TOC

Cecilia Atienza

18 Sr. Laura Bravo, TOC

Teresita Bayog
Sr. Winda Poblacion,TOC
 30

19 Belen Rodella

24 Sr. Pat Holandez, TOC

25 Sr. Teresita Vera Cruz, TOC

26 Sr. Fe Buenaventura, TOC