Ur Sunday Dose: Like Zacchaeus... (31st Sunday - OT)

Oct. 31, 2010

31st Sunday in Ordinary Time
Wis 11,22-12,2 || 2Thes 1,11-2,2
Lk 19,1-10

LIKE ZACCHEUS...

Another coincidence today, eh!

The 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time falls on the 31st day of October. In popular culture, it is widely known as the Halloween. The next two days are by-far the most celebrated Christian Holidays at this time of the Year: the Solemnity of all the Saints (Nov.01) and the Commemoration of all the Faithful Departed (Nov.02).

Let's focus on Oct. 31, since it's a Sunday.

HALLOWEEN, or All Hallows' Eve, is the day which falls before the Solemnity of All the Saints, on Nov. 01. It may come from this Celtic Tradition of Samhain. In it, the Celts believe that the barrier between this world and the other world (May I speak of the afterlife on this?) becomes thin, thus allowing spirits to pass through, both harmful and harmless. The people of the said culture welcome back their ancestors to their homes and ward off the harmful away.

In these times, while the devout Christians celebrate this day, and the following two days with prayers and visit to their departed loved ones in the Cemetery, others observe this very much pagan tradition through trick-or-treats, Halloween parties, devilish costumes, and pagan offerings.

This day has a very solemn meaning, which was very much demoralized by the present culture. What was supposed to be a day of reflection on the glory of God's White-robed Army of the Saints, and His compassion and Mercy on those souls waiting for their purification in Purgatory, turned-out to be a celebration for the wicked triumph of Satan and his fallen angels. This is a proof that even those who consider themselves saved by the Death of the Lord still make some honor to the Prince of Darkness.

Awkward, eh? But this is the reality. Something which must be broken off.

But look at this, my brothers! At this time of the year, we see once again the glory of God's Army, those Saints who gave their lives for the sake of the Gospel. They were never ashamed to proclaim the Gospel, and even if they have a thousand lives, they would offer it all for its sake.

We see the image of Zacchaeus in today's proclamation. He is a chief publican (remember the publican last Sunday?), and is very rich in money and property. But when he heard that the Lord is passing by, he was curious to see him. Though he was small on height, he managed to see him climbing through a Sycamore tree. Jesus, upon seeing him, said, "Zacchaeus, come down quickly, for today I must stay at your house."

At the house, delighted at having the Lord in his own House, Zaccherus said his faith in this manner: "Behold, half of my possessions, Lord, I shall give to the poor, and if I have extorted anything from anyone I shall repay it four times over." Jesus affirmed this faith: "Today salvation has come to this house"

Like Zaccheus in today's Gospel, we see the Saints as people having their dark history, yet glorified upon letting Jesus come into their lives...

Like Zaccheus, they also lived in sin, some are living in prostitution, gambling, and other worldly vices.

Like Zaccheus, Jesus called them to let him enter into their lives. Some hesitated at first, yet welcomed him with great joy. Upon welcoming Him, they felt like a great transformation is happening in their lives, to the point that they are converted.

Like Zaccheus, they offered their lives to God, and to the service of the needy brothers. We see some Saints renouncing their riches and giving it to the poor. Others do miracles through God's grace in order to transform other lives.

Like Zaccheus, Jesus gives salvation to these people. They are now with Jesus at Heaven, cherishing the Glory that is with God alone. And as of now, we ask their intercession for the many petitions we ask of God through them.

Like the Saints, we are also called to be like Zaccheus. From a dark life of sin, Jesus knocks. We are challenged to let Him in. As we offer our life to Him and to the Church, we could see a vast transformation occurring in our lives. It is never too late to be holy, in all means. But we should not slumber or give a deaf ear to this call.

Holiness is our Challenge. Christ is our Model. The Saints are our Inspiration.

As we celebrate the Day of the Lord on Halloween, we continue to ask the intercession of the Saints. We always ask them to pray for us in all our undertakings. As they lived Holy lives on Earth, of which its reward they are now experiencing in Heaven, we ask their guidance that like them, we too may live in total Holiness, in obedience to Christ and His divine Providence.

... And no to Halloween Parties!

BïTZëëlöG_102710 :)

WedPost: WANSUY!!! BïTZëëlöG, the Ka-Fam...

...Post No. 8...Oct. 27, 2010...
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"The only journey is the journey within..."
-Rainier Maria Rilke
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What's heating up today?
~... WANSUY!!! BïTZëëlöG, the Ka-Fam...
~ A Special space for Dhes' Mama...
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...WANSUY!!! BïTZëëlöG, the Ka-Fam...

Yesterday, I wrote this status message on my FB account:

Four Sides... Four Names... One Guy.
WEWE. BITOY. JOHN EZEKIEL. BïTZëëlöG.
WELDANN. :)

Why such status? And who's BïTZëëlöG?

Ako rin yan! Last Sunday became the birth of my fourth identity: BïTZëëlöG, the Ka-Fam.

Last weekend, I entered this clan - nope, it is a FAM - named THREECE FAMILIA. Thanks to my dearly beloved classmate and friend Dinnes Ocfemia (Dinezaur). At my first glance, the impression was great. I was motivated by the jolly members of the fam, that what supposed to be a simple GEB with people whom I don't know turned out to be my first night inside the Fam.

Teka nga... Bakit Fam?
According to Nadeth, our founder, it is a Familia, not a clan. As the name says of it, we are a family here, not a barkadahan. We enjoy every single moment, just like a typical family. Unlike other clans, we are tend to be close - super close - to each other.

Inside the fam are different types of people and personalities: from workaholics to rappers to college studs to typical tambays. We are a jolly jive inside here.

They make my calendar full of activities, from GEBs to bondings, to usual txting habits. I enjoy every single moment when my load goes UnliTxt.
At bakit ko siya nagustuhan?
Simply because they made me feel at home inside the fam. They accepted my qualities at the matter, and in anyway, I enjoy being with them.
In other words, eto na naman at nakahanap ako ng mga taong masasabi kong magiging bahagi ng makulay na buhay ko!

Well, what would the days bring for me and the fam? Let's see...

... Sandali! Hindi ibig sabihin na pumasok ako sa isang Fam, ay nakalimutan ko na ang ibang communities ko, ah. Of course, my Neo Catechumenal Community takes precedence over my other communities, including 3ceFam. We just need to put everything in proper order.

KUDOS, KA-FAM!!!

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... A Special Space for Dhes' Mama...

Well, it seems that I don't have enough spirit to continue typing the WedPost for this week. It looks odd though, but the thought of losing somebody wipes every motivation and the will to do anything.


I offer this special space to my classmate and good friend, Lourdes Bello (in picture, extreme left), as I extend my deepest condolences to her and her sisters and other relatives at the demise of her mother (in picture, second from right) early today.


Dhez, friend, mahirap mawalan ng nanay. But remember this, pinalaki ka niyang matatag ang loob. Kaya mo yan! Baka sa tingin ni mama mo, kaya mo nang harapin ang lahat ng pagsubok na wala siya.

We would always include her in our prayers. Tatag lang ng loob, friend!!!

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GREETINGS and ANNOUNCEMENTS!!!

~ Calling the First Community, and the responsibles and lead cantors of the next three communities of the Neo Catechumenal Way in our Parish, our Regional Convivence will be held on Oct. 29-31, 2010, at St. Michael Retreat House, Antipolo City.

~ Reminder for the Raffle Project of Santa Cruz Parish: The Raffle date will be on Oct. 30, 2010, 2:00 PM at the Sto. Niño Chapel. Prizes which are not claimed after SIXTY days are considered forfeited, so make sure that your tickets are still intact.

~ Marian Night at the parish: Oct 30, 2010. We will have a Living Rosary, Procession and Mass in honor of Our Lady of the Rosary. All are invited!

~ Happy Birthday this week to:

Oct. 27: Aljohn Palaypay

Oct. 28: Mrs. Judith Steele (My Teacher in Science in High School)

Oct. 30: Mary Grace Cansino, Von Jovie Ochangco, Mariann Garciano, Arriane Castro

Oct. 31: Jethro Lopez, Emman Jimenez, Mrs. Marilyn Flores (My Math Teacher in Elem)

Nov. 01: Marissa Espejo
Nov. 02: Mrs. Victoria Bagtas

May God continue to bless you, your families, and all your dreams and aspirations in life!

~ It's November 01 next week! Happy 3rd Year to my multiply site. Though I rarely visit and make updates on my other blogsite, still, it is open for you all to see.

~Perhaps I would post a special post for All Saints' Day and All Souls day before the month ends, so watch out for it!

~ Kudos to you, my dear reader! May God bless you and your plans in life. Thank you for patronizing my blogposts here on JEM@ Blogger, One with You...

BïTZëëlöG_102710 :)

LIT-tie Monday: For You...

FOR YOU...
(August 15, 2008)

I wrote this poem for you
Because I always know
You like poems and all the prose...
Especially if it's dedicated to you.

I don't know how I could survive
without you by my side.
I would not pass by an entire day;
I would possibly live on a stride.

I lived all along in the past
Every single day I consider a nightmare
People around me are like ugly monsters
Until and angel came, no other but you.

Time passes by, we get along deeper
Getting to know what we have for each other,
Until the day came, I realized I was alone again
I looked for you you are nowhere to be seen.

I am alone until now, so sad but true
Passing by the days without you beside me...
Life will never be complete again!

Even if I write a million poems, you're still the one
To fill my days with great joy
And my nights with love and anticipation.

BïtZëëlöG_102510 :)

Ur Sunday Dose: Prayer and Vocations (Special Edition)

Oct. 24, 2010

30th Sunday in Ordinary Time

(Special Edition for the Vocation Week of the 100% Katolikong Pinoy! Online Ministry)

Sir 35, 12-14; 16-18 || 2Tm 4, 6-8;16-18

Lk 18,9-14

PRAYER and VOCATIONS

Vocation is a very important gift came from God. Though it comes in different forms, in different circumstances, and to different persons, nevertheless, it has but one goal: Our Sanctification and His glorification.

I've often heard of lots of seminarians and sisters who had their share of how they were called. Some heard it as they were serving in their parish as a lay minister - Altar Server, Choir member, Legionary, or the like. Their service in the community nourished their desire to serve Christ in a deeper way.

While that is the common manner of the Call for some, others hear this "voice from within" on the most extraordinary moments of life. some hear it when they have an encounter with the poor and needy brothers. Others when they feel converted from a dark past. Still others when they have sleepless nights. And others have a jive of these three. They are a proof that you don't really need to be inside a Parish ministry to hear His call.

On all these circumstances, they hear this "voice from within," and realize that they have this special mission to the Church. They can feel certain doubts, but this voice succeeds their fears, until that certain time that they respond to this mysterious voice with a very big YES. Some enter the seminary or the convent. Others find their one true love and get married.

Nevertheless, this call to Vocation overshadows every personal attribute that we have, and I mean everything - our feelings, desires, circumstances, even our problems. When we hear this call, and respond to it with Mary's FIAT, it is as if with God's help, we can outdo everything! And when we hear this call, there is this urge to follow it wherever it may lead us. This is "the road less taken, the narrow door" which only the just and the worthy may take.

And so, we need to nourish this call with Prayer, lots of it. Prayer is one of the keys in a better vocation discernment. We may never know what may be Jesus' plan for each one of us, but there certainly is one. We just need to have an intimate communication with Him, as we always ask for His help in knowing this "great plan," and striving hard to reach it.

Now, as we hear Jesus speak today, we are asked, How do we pray to God? Do we boast like the Pharisee, or ask for His mercy like the Publican? We are all sinners in this world, and yet we strive to follow Christ in any way possible. We need his strength to continue fighting for our sanctification.

It's just that some pray for their discernment in the wrong way, always boasting himself and his achievements. God cannot enter our hearts if it is filled with ourselves. And if that happens, our vocation is not an authentic one, and it may be an abuse of God's will. It may lead to our ill-luck in our spiritual life.

Jesus calls us to be like the publican in praying, and discerning for that "great plan" in our lives. Not thinking of himself, standing at a distance, with eyes down, he prays: "My God! Have mercy! I am a sinner!" Like him, we are likewise called to ask mercy of Jesus. His heart is open to those who would want to confide their lives and everything that comes with it to Him.

And when we are truly rested in Christ's heart, that's the time when Christ communes with us in a deeper manner, and the sacred magic begins. As the Venerable John Paul II says of it:

In the hidden recesses of the human heart the grace of a vocation takes the form of a dialogue. It is a dialogue between Christ and an individual, in which a personal invitation is given. Christ calls the person by name and says: "Come, follow me." This call, this mysterious inner voice of Christ, is heard most clearly in silence and prayer. Its acceptance is an act of faith.

Taking the great pope's words, we can see that Vocation is a two-way communion between Christ and his Confidanté. We talk to Christ and he listens; He speaks and we listen. We can never reach this intimate relationship if we are full of pride. We should always remember that while we work for the Kingdom of God here on earth, we are still his laborers, and we are to listen to his Voice at all times.

Do not be afraid to listen to the signs of the times. Do not be afraid to talk to God of his plan for your life. And if you discover what that plan may be, do not be afraid of following what you feel is God's call. Ask his strength when feeling doubts on your vocation. In other words, do not be afraid to ask and follow Christ in every way. At the end of everything, you will be contented with what you will receive as the fruit of this grace.

Finally. We hear Jesus' call somewhere in the Gospel, "Pray, therefore, to the Lord of the Harvest, that He may send laborers to the Harvest." We continually pray to God in this Sunday Eucharist for our own intentions, but we should also make it a point to add into our prayers that for vocations into the Church. We pray that the youth of today may respond truthfully to Christ's call to be fishers of men. We pray for those who have responded already to this call that they may continue to bear witness to Christ's undying love for us. We pray for each other that we may altogether live in harmony and Christian Unity under the great Sun which never fades... Jesus Christ!

Rogate!!!

KuyaZeke_102310

(BitZeke's Note: This is a special post of Ur Sunday Dose, in-line with the celebration of 100% Katolikong Pinoy's Vocation Week which would end on Sunday, Oct. 24.

For my regular Sunday Reflection, Pray what you Live, Live what you Pray, you can go to the next post, or click HERE.

Special thanks to 100% Katolikong Pinoy Online Ministry on Facebook.com for the support that I've been receiving from Lit-tie Monday to this post! May God continue to bless you guys!)

Ur Sunday Dose: Pray what you Live, Live what you Pray!

Oct. 24, 2010
30th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Prison Awareness Sunday
Sir 35, 12-14; 16-18 || 2Tm 4, 6-8;16-18
Lk 18,9-14

PRAY WHAT YOU LIVE, LIVE WHAT YOU PRAY!!!

Our Gospel for Sunday continues to talk on prayer. This time, Jesus speaks of two persons who are praying at the temple at the same time - a Pharisee and a Publican.

We all know that the Pharisees are the teachers of the law, and commonly the big guys of the society, along with the Saducees, Zealots and others. We also know that a publican is considered a sinner in the society because he collects tax for the Roman Empire, abusing it most of the time, and being hated by the people because he wants to serve foreigners more than his mother land.

The pharisee prays thus, 'O God, I thank you that I am not like the rest of humanity -- greedy, dishonest, adulterous -- or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week, and I pay tithes on my whole income.’

The publican, who is at a distance, eyes downward, and hands striking his breast, prays, 'O God, be merciful to me a sinner.'

We see clearly who is the most blessed after they have left the temple: the Publican. Though his words are short, unlike the Pharisee, these came straight from his heart, full of sincere repentance for every wrongdoing he had undertaken.

Yes, God hears all our prayers, be it as long as a book, or as short as an aspiration. He hears us and grants it, according to his Providence. As I said on my last USD, He is never deaf to our needs, we just need to pray from the heart, with lots of faith. Though it might take a long time, we just need to be patient.

But we note that as Jesus said, whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted. In front of God, we have nothing to be proud of. We may take account of our accomplishments in front of others, but not in God's majesty.

We see this as a mirror of how we pray - and live. Commonly, we live like the pharisee, and pray like the publican. We live contrary to what we pray. We always say, Diyos ko, salamat po! Maawa kayo sa akin, at kailangan ko po nito..., but after we pray, the words which come from our mouth are these: Ay! Alam mo ba si ..., kabit ni ...! P$%# I*%!!! Sad to say this, but we pray with the mouth of the angels and live with the hand of devils. As we pray for various needs, we tend to work the other way around.

We are always reminded, my brothers and sisters, that we must pray what we live, and live what we pray. Prayer and lifestyle are inseparable. Though it is very hard to undertake, but we are always called to this vocation: Ora et Labora.

In front of God, we are barely nothing, and so we ask his mercy and strength. He is always here for us, listening to our needs. We just need to pray from our hearts, and shout it out through our daily life.

KuyaZeke_102210

(BitZeke's Note: For this week, I've posted two editions of Ur Sunday Dose, this one and a special edition, Prayer and Vocations. To read the special post, click HERE.)

WedPost: VOCARE, vocaRE, voCARE

...Post No. 7...Oct. 20, 2010...
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"Many people mistake our work for our vocation.
Our vocation is the Love of Jesus."
-Blessed Teresa Of Calcutta
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In This Issue:
~SemBreak Naaaahhh!!!!!!
~VOCARE, vocaRE, voCARE
~2 Months, 20 Years, What's New?

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SEMBREAK NAAAAHHH!!!!!

Yes! After five months of hard work and studies, here comes the end of the first half of the Academic Year 2010-2011. Fourth year studies is somewhat tiring, because of the tasks that are given to you to work on double-time at a certain deadline. In one way or another, it gives us a sigh of relief that the Break is here, since we could have some time to slumber for a while, to prepare for the second half of the fight. In other words, we really need rest. Haaaisssttt!!!!

But for me, as I say on my last posts, this SemBreak is a sentimental one, one which is related to the word Goodbye. After the break, I shall continue my studies on a lower level, and with a new set of classmates. The thought makes me excited, and frightened.
Excited, because this is a new exposure for me. I would get to know more people beyond my Circle. I would get to know their potentials, and share what I have with them. Good thought on one hand.

Frightened, though, because I fear that I might fail once again. I know that this was the same set of subjects that I neglected on purpose last year. It serves as a lesson for me that while I still have the opportunity, I should NEVER miss my studies.

Nevertheless, I know that God will guide me this time around. I know that he'd let me fall before for me to discover something. I've discovered it indeed, my own weaknesses. I forgot Him though I serve him constantly in the parish. I've come to discover that that is not enough. There is no balance. That was a big slap for me, and from that downfall I've come to know my lesson.

The past semester was spent as a "standing-up" phase for me, for me to try if I can really continue to make it. Thanks God, I made it through the first five months. Now, with his help, and with the prayers of the people around me, I know that I can make again through the second semester.

At the end, I entrust my all to God. I know he guided me throughout the past sem, and I know that He will continue to guide me on the next one, the "TRIAL SEM..."

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VOCARE, vocaRE, voCARE
Still, in relation to the Second Vocation Week of the Online Ministry
100% Katolikong Pinoy

"Remember, Weldann. YOU ARE NOT WORTHY, BUT YOU ARE CALLED..."
~Rev. Fr. Junjun de Guzman, June 2009

VOCARE = You are called!

VOCA-RE = VOcation REalization, Explore and Discern!

VO-CARE = VOcation CARE, Foster and Pray!

These set of words inspired me to type a sub-post for Vocations. Not to have my share of the heat, but the spirit within me is shouting out that I need to show the world my view when we speak of Vocations. It may sound odd to speak of vocation these days, because of the modernity of the world.

Modernity, alright. That may be the reason why the people of God is suffering constant secularization of beliefs, we tend to believe in wrong circumstances, and we are led astray from the real thing, that real reason why we consider ourselves as Catholics - as Christians. That real thing is God; that real thing is God's love for everyone of us; that real thing is the call for holiness.

We look at the word VOCARE.

In latin, the word means You are called. We are all called. Called to what? We are called to live in union with God. We are called, each and everyone of us, to live the life of God. We are called to be holy, to be perfect like Our Heavenly Father. Sounds odd, too. These days, people live for themselves, we live in pride, we make our wildest fantasies a reality. We have forgotten this call from God... Too sad to think.

But wait! There is still hope for us. We can explore our Vocation. We need to vocaRE!

Yes! God still speaks to us through the secularization of today's world. He still whispers through the hearts and ears of the faithful. He utilizes every situation, every circumstance, every talent and even our problems for us to discover that there is this certain call to Holiness.

You need to open our eyes and look at the bigger picture. Somewhere in that vast canvas of your life, God is calling you to follow Him, to serve Him, and to be holy. If you discern more, this call strengthens, and you discover that certain path which God wants you to take, as your own way of living His Call.

And once we come to the discovery of that path, we are called to voCARE.

As God calls us, we are to respond. All God needs is a profound YES! and off we go! We take care of this call, seeing to it that we never fall astray from that path which God has led us. That path is one full jive of hardships and obstacles, as well as joys and triumphs. We are to follow Christ as we carry the Cross towards our own Glory with Him.

And with that, we see that bigger picture, not with our eyes anymore, but with God's eyes. We discover the needs of others. We open up our hearts and serve them. Maybe by that time, we are already priests, brothers, sisters, or married couples, or single blesseds. Whatever our path may be, we know that we have taken in one way or another the path to Holiness. We see that there is no difference at all when it comes to the happiness that we receive on following God.

I can give this acronym to help those in discernment: LOVE.

Look out. We ask ourselves: Where does God lead me? Where am I right now? We can start with those questions. We are to be sensitive on our surroundings, what are our common ground as of the moment. From that point, we can hear a certain whisper, a voice which would tell us what to do(don't take it literally, ah!?!). For certain, that voice is God.

Open up. Open up ourselves to God. We lift up ourselves to him and surrender our lives. We may say these or other words which might come from our hearts:
God, my Father, I entrust my life to you, all my weaknesses and talents.
Jesus, my Brother, inflame my heart with the fire of selfless service to others.
Spirit of Love, guide me on which path of Holiness I should take, and strengthen me with your Holy wisdom.
Mary, my Mother, be my inspiration.
Saints of God, pray for me.

Visit ourselves. We visit our lives and see what we can do for this call. We try to mend our bad ways, and change it with good ones. This is the point where we seek spiritual direction. A priest, a nun, or a certain guy who has also responded to the Call may do the trick. You can also do some Search-ins with Religious orders, retreats, or the like. Nevertheless, this is a time of a great change in your life.

Education and Formation. Here comes the formal studying status of the Path. Maybe by this time, you are already in the Seminary or at the Convent, studying the certain subjects, exposing yourself to pastoral work and service, and being formed to be a Minister of Christ and his Church. When in a married state, this may be the time that you are rearing children, teaching them the basics of the faith, as well as ABCs and 123s. Whatever state of life we may choose, this is the time where you are formed to walk in the Path which God has led you, and you chose to walk in.

Together, we pray for more Vocations in the Church. We pray to the Lord of the Harvest to send more good workers to his Harvest, that we may continue to live and work to Holiness.

Send, O Lord, Holy Apostles into Your Church!

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2 MONTHS, 20 YEARS... WHAT'S NEW?

As of yesterday, I am already on my third month as a 20-year older. I continue to say, Napakahirap ang maging isang Bente Anyos!!!

Why? Simply because many things are expected of me. From that tiring work at Educ week, to simply looking after the store, to maintaining a blog. Everybody is expecting me to be a responsible man. I still have those qualities that I must have left in my teenage years. It's hard to leave them at a short span of time. I am getting through with some little by little, but there are still some of my qualities which I perceive would continue to stay with me for a long time.

I look at my past WedPosts, and I evaluate myself as I reflect on them, together with the unseen events of my life. I see clearly that I am still in dire need of guidance, and formation. Yeah, it's really hard to act as an adult in a world which does not consider you as one. And so, I consider myself still as a student thirsting for formation.

And so, at this certain point in my life when I consider so many choices, so many tasks, and many more opportunities and challenges to come, I pray...

Lord, guide me along this year of discoveries! I don't know what path should I take, and what to do. Continue to form me as your own. I cannot do anything without you. I am nothing, my God. May your will be done! AMEN.

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Greetings and Announcements!!!

~ Issuance of Class Cards at CMU for the First Semester: Oct. 21-22, 2010. Strictly No Permit and clearance, no Class Cards!

~ Calling the responsibles and lead cantors of the First three communities of the Neo Catechumenal Way in our Parish, our Regional Convivence will be held on Oct. 29-31, 2010, at St. Michael Retreat House, Antipolo City.

~ Reminder for the Raffle Project of Santa Cruz Parish: The Raffle date will be on Oct. 30, 2010, 2:00 PM at the Sto. Niño Chapel. Prizes which are not claimed after SIXTY days are considered forfeited, so make sure that your tickets are still intact.

~ Happy Birthday this week to:

Oct. 21: Abraham Digan

Oct. 22: Maria Lourdes Bello, Ruben Gannaban, Juan Paulo Ardoña, and Maria Veronidia Elunio

Oct. 23: Lyndon Tongco

Oct. 25: Allan Panganiban (my big bro...), Reiner Singson

Oct. 26: Domingo "Kuya Boyet" Bendal (My Brood-in-law), James Roi dela Cruz

May God continue to bless you, your families, and all your dreams and aspirations in life!

(Birthday greetings go on Wedpost-to-Wedpost basis, meaning the scope of birthdays being cited here are from the day of posting thru next Tuesday, just before the new WedPost)

~ Kudos to all the Admins, and Members of the FB Fan Page of 100% KATOLIKONG PINOY! Happy Vocation Week! May God continue to bless us as we walk our way towards being proud and faithful Catholics... Catholic Filipinos!

~ Kudos to you, my dear reader! May God bless you and your plans in life. thank you for patronizing my blogposts here on JEM@ Blogger, One with You...

KuyaZeke,ccs_102010 :)

LIT-tie Monday: VOCATIONS

As the Online Page of 100% Katolikong Pinoy (Link HERE) celebrates its Vocation Week, from Oct. 17-23, 2010, I made this little work on Vocations. I pray that through this poem, among others, God may touch the hearts of the faithful, especially the youth of today, to answer God's call to the priesthood or marriage.

VOCATIONS

Voices I usually hear deep within my heart
echoing a sound that comes from someone strong
It seems to say, "Come and follow me,

No matter who you are, no matter what you may be.

"Obviously, this is not a coincidence
Or a product of your wildest dreams.
This is not your imagination at work;
Look beyond your field, I am standing, calling you.

"Come to me, my little brother.
Enter my midst, my little sister.
You may have deep doubts on me right now
But here I am, I will ease it all.

"All about your life and desires, I know.
It may be tough for you, but there is a reason for it all.
I am calling you right here and right now.
Open your heart to me, and I will show you my cause.

"There's a vast sea, so deep somewhere;
The fish is numerous! Who will catch them for me?
There's a rich harvest, bountiful for us all,
Whom shall I send to work, for them to be reaped?
Look, my child, I am sending you to this bounty.
Work for me, be a Fisher of Men."

I respond to the voice, "My Lord and Master!

Who am I, unworthy for you to be sent?
I am frail and weak, no one understands me.
I am least of my brethren, I am nobody!"

"Oh, my child," the voice replies,
"Do not fear, have no worry.
I am here with you, I am your Lord.
I find you worthy. I am sending you.

"Never fear the world and its darkness.
Have courage! Proclaim my Word, Live on it!
You will suffer a great deal for this, my cause,

But one day, you shall see eternal happiness, joy forever!"

"Send me, O Lord," I answered the Voice within.
"Send me, if it is according to your will.
I know it's hard, but I know you are always here.
Guide me as I lead your people back to you.
I trust in your loving kindness, O Lord.
I open myself to you. I am forever yours..."

KuyaZeke,ccs_101810 :)

Ur Sunday Dose: ...Will He Find Faith?

October 17, 2010

29th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Lk 18,1-8

... WILL HE FIND FAITH?

The Gospel is a little bit catchy today. We hear the parable of the dishonest Judge who takes heed to a bothering widow who begs him day and night to please give justice to a certain problem. Jesus says thus, Will not God then secure the rights of his chosen ones who call out to him day and night? Will he be slow to answer them?

Yes, this one goes to those who pray without faith, and those who pray like commanding God to do something ASAP. God answers all our prayers, in due time. We may be growing tired of asking God of something which is important to us. But with that, we learn the virtue of unceasing prayer. This is important for us, since it will teach us the value of patience, and the essence of praising Him every moment of our lives.

What should we do? Pray with faith. Lots of faith.

But Jesus asks at the end of the Proclamation, But when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?

In these modern times, when everything is instant, we even ask God to instantly give us something that should be given us sometime soon. When we wait for a long time and still no response is received from God, we grow tired and weary of praying, we tend to give up. We lose our faith in Him, and we could say, Naku! Akala ko Diyos ka na nakikinig sa mga dasal namin? Bakit hanggang ngayon, ay hindi mo pa rin pinagbibigyan ang mga dasal namin?

This is the matter of our faith now, Give this, or You are not God; give that to us or we would never believe you anymore. Very awkward because of the sense itself, God following man, not man following God.

Jesus reminds us today, that God answers our prayers, in due time. We just need to pray non-stop; we need to pray with lots of faith. Like the bothering widow of today's parable, we continue to ask God for our daily needs. But as we ask Him of all of our petitions, we ask Him of the grace of faith and patience, that we may be able to wait and keep watch for the time that He will give us our needs.

Who knows? Christ may come to our lives today, later, or right now. When He comes and sees faith - even if it might be that of a Mustard seed - on our lives and our prayers, He will surely give us our needs.

This thing, my brothers. Everything in His time and providence. We just need to pray unceasingly, and with lots of faith.

KuyaZeke,ccs_101510

WedPost: Viva La Gran Señora!!!

...Post No. 6...Oct. 13, 2010...
===+===
It does not matter how slowly you go, as long as you do not stop.
-Confucius
===+===
In This Issue:
~Viva La Gran Señora!!!
~To My Colleagues: the Feedback
~SemBreak naaa!!!!!

===+===

VIVA LA GRAN SEÑORA!!!

10-10-10 was really a day of union between me and God. The day spent wisely, I took the chance to communicate with God in various ways, and since it was a Sunday, it was really my Church Day...

... it so happened that I took it to a different level.

Last Sunday (Second Sunday of October) was the celebration of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary, La Naval de Manila. I knew it for all this time, thanks to my dete who studied in a Dominican School (St. James Academy). I knew that there was this certain honor to the Virgin, under the title La Naval de Manila, but in reality, I don't know where to visit her. For the years that I came to know of her, I prayed that I may visit her, even just once. It never came to happen, until last Sunday.

A new-found friend in Facebook invited me to attend the celebrations. I am not supposed to come to the event for various reasons, and for the fact that I don't know how to go to Sto. Domingo Church. Yet, I answered yes to him, putting my trust to the Virgin that She will guide me as I go to her shrine.

Sunday came, and as the date of the day came to be, Miracle came after miracle. First of them all, God made my schedule more earlier than I did. I was able to attend the Convivence of my community in the morning, attend Mass in our parish in the afternoon, and go to Sto. Domingo in the Evening. When last Saturday, I was in a dilemma on how to fix my schedule for the next day, God has prepared something after all.

Second, When I thought I was lost in Recto, I was not. I was looking for a jeep on the way to the Church. On my first try, they refuse me, since Sto. Domingo was not a part of their route. I am so desperate then when a driver said to me, Boy, mali ang jeep na hinahanapan mo. Dun ka sa kabilang kalye. I did searched for a jeep on the other side of the road, and Deo Gratias! I found one. I keep on texting my friend on my whereabouts, and when I texted him that I am past Kanlaon St., his reply was, "Congrats bro, andyan ka na!"

Third, and the most notable miracle of the day, the thrill and excitement that I felt when I stood in front of her image. Parang... grabe! When I entered the Church, I've gone sight-seeing first, roving around the Carossas of the different saints that were included in the procession. When I arrived at the side door of the Church, I got my first-hand look at the virgin from my position. Filled with awe, all that I was able to say was... "Ma! I'm here na!" All my curiosity of the younger years were wiped out on that moment, when I was able to see her face-to-face. It was a moving moment for me.

As I left her that night, I made a promise to her, that I will make sure that I will visit her on her feast day every year, as long as my physical abilities permit. That moment was really a milestone for me. One of my firsts for my 20th year of life. I continue to thank God and Mary for this point in my life when I was able to visit a childhood mother of my dreams. I keep on praying to her for me and for everyone and everything that is dear to me. I will really never forget this moment in my life.

===+===

TO MY COLLEAGUES: A FEEDBACK...

After I posted the poem and Pic-Movie version of To My Colleagues, lots and lots of reactions came. Here are some:
~ Tearjerker, ha!?! (Prof. Domingo)
~ Salamat talaga, friend! Napaiyak mo ako, ang ganda nung poem tsaka nung movie... (Lourdes Bello)
~ Bitoy, hindi ako naniniwala sa pagpapaalam, kasi naman hindi tayo talaga mawawala. Magkakaibigan tayo... (Dinnes Ocfemia)
~ Friend! Thanks for the touching poem, ang galing mo talaga! Ang ganda ng composition of words, pati ng conjunctions. Kaso napaka-ironic ng thought. hehehehe,,,, (Jimmy Romero)

These, among others, were my friends' comment to the poem which I made, dedicated to them. To them I always say, Salamat!

To my classmates, especially to my Ghoy Ghang family, thanks so much for the memories. You may say that I'm very exaggerated with my emotions, but one thing's for sure... I'll miss all of you.

===+===

SEMBREAK NAAA!!!!

Yes! After five months of study, work, enjoyment, and others, here comes the point when we take our rest for a while, and unwind for a moment.

Well, Sembreak 2010 is a busy one for me...
~ Watching after the Store...
~ Regional Convivence (sana mapayagan akong sumama...)
~ All Saints and All Souls Day...
~ and other rackets for me to have some money for the coming semester.

Sembreak is just around the corner, and for me, this break has a sentimental value. It is here when I will say goodbye to my real batchmates, and hello to a new one. This is the fulfillment of the nightmares of Summer. I pray that I may strive the real one for the coming semester, and all the challenges that come along with it.

But for now, it's time for rest... rest... rest...

===+===
Greetings and Announcements!!!

~ RAFFLE FOR THE PARISH SERVICE... Join us as we work for the fulfillment of our Parish Dreams. Tickets can be bought @ P10.00 per ticket from the Parish Office of Sta. Cruz Parish.

~ Happy Birthday!!! to my good friends Ira Mae Cruz (Oct. 14), and Albert Dela Torre (Oct. 15). May God bless and guide you on another year of life.

~ Kudos to all who continue to read and patronize my blog. Hope that you like my posts, as I continue to give out my soul and emotions to you guys. Mabuhay kayo!!!

KuyaZeke,ccs_101310 :)

VIVA LA GRAN SEÑORA!!! (Extracted from WedPost, October 13, 2010)

This article came from WedPost, a former segment of this blog which was published every Wednesday which features a compilation of events for the past week. It is about my very first visit to Santo Domingo Church, QC, and my first encounter with Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary, La Naval de Manila. This encounter started my love for Nanay, and furthered my growth from a student standing up from ashes to a professional teacher guided by her love and care. This is the start of my love story with Nanay La Naval. (August 30, 2014)

10-10-10 was really a day of union between me and God. The day spent wisely, I took the chance to communicate with God in various ways, and since it was a Sunday, it was really my Church Day...

... it so happened that I took it to a different level.

Last Sunday (Second Sunday of October) was the celebration of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary, La Naval de Manila. I knew it for all this time, thanks to my dete who studied in a Dominican School (St. James Academy). I knew that there was this certain honor to the Virgin, under the title La Naval de Manila, but in reality, I don't know where to visit her. For the years that I came to know of her, I prayed that I may visit her, even just once. It never came to happen, until last Sunday.

A new-found friend in Facebook invited me to attend the celebrations. I am not supposed to come to the event for various reasons, and for the fact that I don't know how to go to Sto. Domingo Church. Yet, I answered yes to him, putting my trust to the Virgin that She will guide me as I go to her shrine.

Sunday came, and as the date of the day came to be, Miracle came after miracle. First of them all, God made my schedule more earlier than I did. I was able to attend the Convivence of my community in the morning, attend Mass in our parish in the afternoon, and go to Sto. Domingo in the Evening. When last Saturday, I was in a dilemma on how to fix my schedule for the next day, God has prepared something after all.

Second, When I thought I was lost in Recto, I was not. I was looking for a jeep on the way to the Church. On my first try, they refuse me, since Sto. Domingo was not a part of their route. I am so desperate then when a driver said to me,Boy, mali ang jeep na hinahanapan mo. Dun ka sa kabilang kalye. I did searched for a jeep on the other side of the road, and Deo Gratias! I found one. I keep on texting my friend on my whereabouts, and when I texted him that I am past Kanlaon St., his reply was, "Congrats bro, andyan ka na!"

Third, and the most notable miracle of the day, the thrill and excitement that I felt when I stood in front of her image. Parang... grabe! When I entered the Church, I've gone sight-seeing first, roving around the Carossas of the different saints that were included in the procession. When I arrived at the side door of the Church, I got my first-hand look at the virgin from my position. Filled with awe, all that I was able to say was... "Ma! I'm here na!" All my curiosity of the younger years were wiped out on that moment, when I was able to see her face-to-face. It was a moving moment for me.

As I left her that night, I made a promise to her, that I will make sure that I will visit her on her feast day every year, as long as my physical abilities permit. That moment was really a milestone for me. One of my firsts for my 20th year of life. I continue to thank God and Mary for this point in my life when I was able to visit a childhood mother of my dreams. I keep on praying to her for me and for everyone and everything that is dear to me. I will really never forget this moment in my life.

To my Colleagues... (Pic-movie Version)

Bitz's Note: To my Colleagues is the opening post for Lit-tie Monday, a series of literary pieces which I wrote. The poem was brought about by my emotions as I leave my real batchmates this semester, and move on with another batch until next year when , God-willing, I graduate from College.

After the positive feedback I received from my professor, Ms. Lia Domingo, and from my classmates, I decided that I should create a pic-movie inspired by the poem.

In this pic-movie are selected pictures taken with my classmates from first year up until this semester. This is a proof that I'll miss them so much, and the memories are enough cherishing.

To my classmates, especially to my Ghoy Ghang family, thanks so much for the memories. You may say that I'm very exaggerated with my emotions, but one thing's for sure... I'll miss all of you. This one is for you guys...

Ur Sunday Dose: Where are the other Nine?

October 10, 2010

28th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Lk 17,11-19

WHERE ARE THE OTHER NINE?

It may be a coincidence that the story of the ten lepers is to be proclaimed on the tenth day of the tenth month of the tenth year of the Third Millennium, a Sunday. Others see some perfection of life on this day. Others see this as a lucky day, like 9-9-9 of the year 2009 or 7-7-7 of the year 2007.

A piece of trivia for today: In Hebrew Numerology, the Number Ten (10) means a lot of things...
~ 10 is a symbol of a matter in Harmony. (4+6)
~ It also symbolizes the unity of the Creator and His Creation. (3+7)
~ 10 signifies the Revelation and the Divine Law. (Example of this is the 10 Plagues at Egypt and the 10 Commandments at Mt. Horeb)
~ St. Jerome presents 10 Names of God as he cited it in the Hebrew Bible: EL; Eloim; Eloe; Sabaoth; Elion; Eser Ieje; Adonai; Ia; Yod, He, Waw, He; and Saddai
~ The man is the tenth hierarchy of the "celestial chorus" that will replace, after the last judgement, the rebellious angels.
These, among others, constitute the meaning of the Number Ten (10) in the Hebrew Numerology.

Now, back to the Gospel. Today, on the 10th Day of the 10th Month of the 10th Year, a Sunday, we witness the story of the Ten Lepers. We see Jesus sending them back to the priests to fulfill what is prescribed of the law. As they walk, they were eventually cleansed.

One of the ten, a Samaritan, realizes that he is clean already. He comes back to Jesus to give him thanks. Jesus asks, "Where are the other nine? This one is a Samaritan, and yet he returned here to give thanks? Where are the others?"

We return to those moments in our life when we consider ourselves offering prayers to God for a particular intention. We fill up those empty spaces in our churches, kneeling in front of our favorite saint, fulfilling our panatas, just asking God to give us this and that.

Then, when God gives us what we need, we are contented, we feel happy, and we forget God.

My dear brothers, God is never to be forgotten in every moment of our life. We tend to do the contrary of this, yet he still blesses us with everything we need.

He is fair to us all. All we need, if it is according to His Will, he gives us, whether we give thanks or not. But those who God blesses and, realizing it, gives back to God the thanks and praise is given more blessings.

We are challenged to be like the Samaritan. Once seeing God's Grace in his life, he goes back to God to thank him. Let us not be like the other nine, who continues with their ordinary life after God heeds to their request.

Where are the other Nine? Go, stand up! Your faith has saved you... We pray to God today, that as we celebrate once again the Eucharist on the 10th day of the 10th month of the 10th year, the Lord's Day, we may experience the graces that we ask of Him; and once experienced, may we go back to God to praise him for he is the fount of all Graces and blessings.

KuyaZeke,ccs_100810