HABEMUS PAPAM!
"Jorge Mario Bergoglio"
Cardinal Bergoglio of Argentina
The cardinals of the Roman Catholic church on Wednesday chose as their new pope a man from almost "the end of the world" – the first non-European to be elected for almost 1,300 years and the first-ever member of the Jesuit order.
Jorge Mario Bergoglio, the archbishop of Buenos Aires, becomes Pope Francis – the first pontiff to take that name – an early indication perhaps of a reign he hopes will be marked by inspirational preaching and evangelisation.
But the cardinals' choice risked running into immediate controversy over the new pope's role in Argentina's troubled history. In his book, El Silencio, a prominent Argentinian journalist alleged that he connived in the abduction of two Jesuit priests by the military junta in the so-called "dirty war". He denies the accusation.
The new pope appeared on the balcony over the entrance to St Peter's basilica more than an hour after white smoke poured from the chimney above the Sistine Chapel, signalling that the cardinals had made their choice. Dressed in his new white robes, the bespectacled Argentinian prelate looked pensive and perhaps a little intimidated as he looked out at the sea of jubilant humanity in the square.
The former Cardinal Bergoglio was not among the front-runners. But he obtained more votes than any other candidate except former pope Benedict in the 2005 conclave, and – although his election came as a surprise – he was certainly not a rank outsider.
According to some accounts, he was not chosen eight years ago because he begged his fellow cardinals not to continue voting for him. As he uttered his first words – "buona sera" – and the cheering died away, he told the crowd that his peers had been tasked with finding a bishop of Rome. "And it seems that they went almost to the end of the world to find him. But we're here," he said with a smile.
After a prayer for his predecessor, Benedict XVI, the new pope invited the faithful in the square to "pray for the entire world". He added: "I hope that this path for the church will be one fruitful for evangelisation."
Faced with a sharp choice between those cardinals who wanted a thorough shake-up of the Vatican and those who did not, it appeared the electors in the Sistine Chapel opted for compromise. Bergoglio has a reputation for both political canniness and reforming drive. Among the tests facing the 76-year-old will be the awesome managerial demands of the job.
The fumata bianca – the white smoke signal that marks the successful conclusion of a conclave – arrived after five ballots at the end of the second day of voting. The smoke that poured out of the comignolo, the copper and steel tube on the roof of the Sistine Chapel, was greeted with cries of delight and applause from the crowd below. Soon after, the bells of St Peter's rang out, confirming that a new pope had taken over the spiritual leadership of the world's 1.2 billion baptised Catholics.
Inside the Sistine Chapel after the final vote was cast, the most junior of the cardinals, James Harvey, a former prefect of the papal household, called in the secretary of the college of cardinals, Monsignor Lorenzo Baldisseri, and the master of papal liturgical ceremonies, Monsignor Guido Marini, to witness the new pope's acceptance of one of the most daunting jobs on Earth.
The most senior of the electors, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, approached the pope-to-be and – in accordance with tradition – asked him in Latin: "Do you accept your canonical election as supreme pontiff?"
Having obtained his consent, he will have asked: "By what name do you wish to be called?" The master of ceremonies, acting as a notary, will then have summoned two of his staff to act as witnesses, and prepared the document that certifies the new pope's acceptance.
Newly elected popes are taken to be robed in the Room of Tears, its name an indication of the reluctance with which most approach the task. The last holder of the office, Benedict XVI, introduced a change in the ritual that allows the new pope to pray before he is announced to the world.
Benedict abdicated on 28 February, saying that he was no longer able to cope with the burden of his office. He was the first pontiff to resign voluntarily since Celestine V in 1294.The world's Catholics will be looking to his successor to provide not only spiritual inspiration but also firm leadership. The new pope was chosen against a background of turbulence and strife unprecedented in modern times. He takes on the leadership of a church whose faithful have been shocked by a proliferation of clerical sex abuse scandals throughout the rich world and dismayed by events in and around the Vatican.
The day for the 115 cardinal-electors began at about 6.30am local time in the Casa Santa Marta, their simple but comfortable – and highly protected – residence in the walled city state. After breakfast, they made their way to the Apostolic Palace, the home of the popes, for morning mass in the Pauline Chapel. By about 9.30am, they had settled themselves into the Sistine Chapel for prayers and the resumption of voting.
Benedict's startling decision to resign came after years of mounting tension and discreet but venomous infighting in the Roman Curia, the central administration of the Catholic church. Last year, some of the pope's correspondence, pointing to bitter rivalries and maladministration – or worse – in the Vatican was published in book form.
Benedict's butler, Paolo Gabriele, was tried and imprisoned for leaking the documents, but the journalist to whom the papers were passed has said that his source was part of a much broader network of disaffected Vatican employees and officials. Gabriele's arrest coincided with a renewed controversy over the Vatican bank, whose chairman was summarily dismissed last May.
The scandals – and a string of controversies over the pope's own declarations – distracted attention from what was expected to be the central theme of his papacy. Benedict came to the leadership of the Catholic church as the pope who would begin the process of re-evangelising an increasingly secular western world.
That too will be an important challenge for his successor. In the approach to the conclave several cardinals said they wanted a great pastor for the world's biggest Christian denomination.
No indication of how or why the new pope was chosen was expected to emerge. On Tuesday, before the start of the conclave, the cardinal-electors took an oath of secrecy, as had those Vatican employees and officials involved in the election.
Additional precautions included a sweep of the Sistine Chapel to ensure that no listening devices had been planted inside and the use of electronic jamming techniques.
Jorge Mario Bergoglio, the archbishop of Buenos Aires, becomes Pope Francis – the first pontiff to take that name – an early indication perhaps of a reign he hopes will be marked by inspirational preaching and evangelisation.
But the cardinals' choice risked running into immediate controversy over the new pope's role in Argentina's troubled history. In his book, El Silencio, a prominent Argentinian journalist alleged that he connived in the abduction of two Jesuit priests by the military junta in the so-called "dirty war". He denies the accusation.
The new pope appeared on the balcony over the entrance to St Peter's basilica more than an hour after white smoke poured from the chimney above the Sistine Chapel, signalling that the cardinals had made their choice. Dressed in his new white robes, the bespectacled Argentinian prelate looked pensive and perhaps a little intimidated as he looked out at the sea of jubilant humanity in the square.
The former Cardinal Bergoglio was not among the front-runners. But he obtained more votes than any other candidate except former pope Benedict in the 2005 conclave, and – although his election came as a surprise – he was certainly not a rank outsider.
According to some accounts, he was not chosen eight years ago because he begged his fellow cardinals not to continue voting for him. As he uttered his first words – "buona sera" – and the cheering died away, he told the crowd that his peers had been tasked with finding a bishop of Rome. "And it seems that they went almost to the end of the world to find him. But we're here," he said with a smile.
After a prayer for his predecessor, Benedict XVI, the new pope invited the faithful in the square to "pray for the entire world". He added: "I hope that this path for the church will be one fruitful for evangelisation."
Faced with a sharp choice between those cardinals who wanted a thorough shake-up of the Vatican and those who did not, it appeared the electors in the Sistine Chapel opted for compromise. Bergoglio has a reputation for both political canniness and reforming drive. Among the tests facing the 76-year-old will be the awesome managerial demands of the job.
The fumata bianca – the white smoke signal that marks the successful conclusion of a conclave – arrived after five ballots at the end of the second day of voting. The smoke that poured out of the comignolo, the copper and steel tube on the roof of the Sistine Chapel, was greeted with cries of delight and applause from the crowd below. Soon after, the bells of St Peter's rang out, confirming that a new pope had taken over the spiritual leadership of the world's 1.2 billion baptised Catholics.
Inside the Sistine Chapel after the final vote was cast, the most junior of the cardinals, James Harvey, a former prefect of the papal household, called in the secretary of the college of cardinals, Monsignor Lorenzo Baldisseri, and the master of papal liturgical ceremonies, Monsignor Guido Marini, to witness the new pope's acceptance of one of the most daunting jobs on Earth.
The most senior of the electors, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, approached the pope-to-be and – in accordance with tradition – asked him in Latin: "Do you accept your canonical election as supreme pontiff?"
Having obtained his consent, he will have asked: "By what name do you wish to be called?" The master of ceremonies, acting as a notary, will then have summoned two of his staff to act as witnesses, and prepared the document that certifies the new pope's acceptance.
Newly elected popes are taken to be robed in the Room of Tears, its name an indication of the reluctance with which most approach the task. The last holder of the office, Benedict XVI, introduced a change in the ritual that allows the new pope to pray before he is announced to the world.
Benedict abdicated on 28 February, saying that he was no longer able to cope with the burden of his office. He was the first pontiff to resign voluntarily since Celestine V in 1294.The world's Catholics will be looking to his successor to provide not only spiritual inspiration but also firm leadership. The new pope was chosen against a background of turbulence and strife unprecedented in modern times. He takes on the leadership of a church whose faithful have been shocked by a proliferation of clerical sex abuse scandals throughout the rich world and dismayed by events in and around the Vatican.
The day for the 115 cardinal-electors began at about 6.30am local time in the Casa Santa Marta, their simple but comfortable – and highly protected – residence in the walled city state. After breakfast, they made their way to the Apostolic Palace, the home of the popes, for morning mass in the Pauline Chapel. By about 9.30am, they had settled themselves into the Sistine Chapel for prayers and the resumption of voting.
Benedict's startling decision to resign came after years of mounting tension and discreet but venomous infighting in the Roman Curia, the central administration of the Catholic church. Last year, some of the pope's correspondence, pointing to bitter rivalries and maladministration – or worse – in the Vatican was published in book form.
Benedict's butler, Paolo Gabriele, was tried and imprisoned for leaking the documents, but the journalist to whom the papers were passed has said that his source was part of a much broader network of disaffected Vatican employees and officials. Gabriele's arrest coincided with a renewed controversy over the Vatican bank, whose chairman was summarily dismissed last May.
The scandals – and a string of controversies over the pope's own declarations – distracted attention from what was expected to be the central theme of his papacy. Benedict came to the leadership of the Catholic church as the pope who would begin the process of re-evangelising an increasingly secular western world.
That too will be an important challenge for his successor. In the approach to the conclave several cardinals said they wanted a great pastor for the world's biggest Christian denomination.
No indication of how or why the new pope was chosen was expected to emerge. On Tuesday, before the start of the conclave, the cardinal-electors took an oath of secrecy, as had those Vatican employees and officials involved in the election.
Additional precautions included a sweep of the Sistine Chapel to ensure that no listening devices had been planted inside and the use of electronic jamming techniques.
The Diocesan SHRINE OF JESUS IN THE HOLY SEPULCHRE
invites you to
A NIGHT OF MUSIC & JOY @ The Shrine
THE 6TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION!
DECEMBER 2, 2012 SUNDAY , 8PM
Featuring:
GABRIEL JAMES FRIAS (Pipe Organ Protege)
16 year-old Organist Titulare of Union Church of Manila
former student of Alejandro D. Consolacion II
KORO ILUSTRADO ( All Male-Choir)
Conductors
Edmund "jhong" Piquero Jr.
Anna Abeleda - Piquero
Alumni, Philippine Madrigal Singers
Most Rev. Pedro Bantigue y Natividad, D.D.
Bishop-emeritus of San Pablo
he beloved first Bishop of San Pablo returned to the House of the Father at two forty in the afternoon, a few minutes before the Hour of Great Mercy, Tuesday, November 20, 2012. His Excellency surrendered himself totally to God after suffering from obscure gastrointestinal bleeding, pneumonia, acute renal failure on top of chronic kidney disease secondary to diabetic nephropathy. He was 92 years old.
LIFE. Bishop Bantigue was born on January 31, 1920 from Marcos and Eusebia Natividad of Sta. Monica, Hagonoy, Bulacan. He pursued his priestly calling at the Archdiocesan seminary of Manila, the San Carlos Seminary, shortly after completing his college studies at the University of Sto. Tomas. As a priest of Manila, he served as Private Secretary to three archbishops of Manila: Archbishop Michael J. O’Doherty, Archbishop Gabriel Reyes, and His Eminence Rufino Jiao Cardinal Santos. He was elected Titular Bishop of Catula and Auxiliary Bishop of Manila by Pope John XXIII on May 29, 1961; and he participated as one of the council fathers at the Second Vatican Council.
Upon the erection of the Diocese of San Pablo (1966), Pope Paul VI appointed Bishop Bantigue as its first bishop. Since his installation as Bishop of San Pablo on April 18, 1967 until his retirement on July 12, 1995, Bishop Bantigue guided the Diocese towards stability and holiness. He bequeathed the local Church in Laguna with two seminaries; organized the first Diocesan Eucharistic Congress (1979) and summoned the faithful to the Diocese’s first synod (1994).
Last July 25, 2011, Bishop Bantigue celebrated his Golden Jubilee as a bishop. Until his last breath, he was faithful to his motto – DEI SUMUS ADJUTORES – “We are God’s co-workers” (1 Corinthians 3:9).
DEATH. The remains of Bishop Bantigue will lie in state at the Convent of the Missionary Sisters of the Holy Face of Jesus in Brgy. San Antonio, San Pablo City from November 21 (Wednesday) until November 22 (Thursday). At eight o’clock in the morning of November 22, Bishop Bantigue’s body will be transferred to the Saint Paul the First Hermit Cathedral compound (San Pablo City) and will lie in state at the Resurrection Chapel until Monday, November 26.
Requiem Masses will be offered at the Cathedral everyday (November 21 – 26) at seven o’clock in the morning. Bishops and priests may preside over Masses at their convenience/availability either in the Cathedral or in the Resurrection Chapel.
The Funeral Mass and Rite of Burial will be held at the Cathedral on November 26, Monday at nine thirty in the morning.
For further information or for questions, please feel free to contact the Office of the Private Secretary to the Bishop of San Pablo at (049) 503-2240 (look for Fr. David or Katkat).
His Excellency, Most Rev. Leo M. Drona, SDB, D.D., Bishop of San Pablo, requests his brother-bishops, the clergy, and the faithful to pray for the repose of the soul of Bishop Bantigue.
On behalf of the Bishop of San Pablo,
REV. MSGR. MELCHOR A. BARCENAS, JCL
Vicar General
COPY @ http://www.dioceseofsanpablo.com/
LIFE. Bishop Bantigue was born on January 31, 1920 from Marcos and Eusebia Natividad of Sta. Monica, Hagonoy, Bulacan. He pursued his priestly calling at the Archdiocesan seminary of Manila, the San Carlos Seminary, shortly after completing his college studies at the University of Sto. Tomas. As a priest of Manila, he served as Private Secretary to three archbishops of Manila: Archbishop Michael J. O’Doherty, Archbishop Gabriel Reyes, and His Eminence Rufino Jiao Cardinal Santos. He was elected Titular Bishop of Catula and Auxiliary Bishop of Manila by Pope John XXIII on May 29, 1961; and he participated as one of the council fathers at the Second Vatican Council.
Upon the erection of the Diocese of San Pablo (1966), Pope Paul VI appointed Bishop Bantigue as its first bishop. Since his installation as Bishop of San Pablo on April 18, 1967 until his retirement on July 12, 1995, Bishop Bantigue guided the Diocese towards stability and holiness. He bequeathed the local Church in Laguna with two seminaries; organized the first Diocesan Eucharistic Congress (1979) and summoned the faithful to the Diocese’s first synod (1994).
Last July 25, 2011, Bishop Bantigue celebrated his Golden Jubilee as a bishop. Until his last breath, he was faithful to his motto – DEI SUMUS ADJUTORES – “We are God’s co-workers” (1 Corinthians 3:9).
DEATH. The remains of Bishop Bantigue will lie in state at the Convent of the Missionary Sisters of the Holy Face of Jesus in Brgy. San Antonio, San Pablo City from November 21 (Wednesday) until November 22 (Thursday). At eight o’clock in the morning of November 22, Bishop Bantigue’s body will be transferred to the Saint Paul the First Hermit Cathedral compound (San Pablo City) and will lie in state at the Resurrection Chapel until Monday, November 26.
Requiem Masses will be offered at the Cathedral everyday (November 21 – 26) at seven o’clock in the morning. Bishops and priests may preside over Masses at their convenience/availability either in the Cathedral or in the Resurrection Chapel.
The Funeral Mass and Rite of Burial will be held at the Cathedral on November 26, Monday at nine thirty in the morning.
For further information or for questions, please feel free to contact the Office of the Private Secretary to the Bishop of San Pablo at (049) 503-2240 (look for Fr. David or Katkat).
His Excellency, Most Rev. Leo M. Drona, SDB, D.D., Bishop of San Pablo, requests his brother-bishops, the clergy, and the faithful to pray for the repose of the soul of Bishop Bantigue.
On behalf of the Bishop of San Pablo,
REV. MSGR. MELCHOR A. BARCENAS, JCL
Vicar General
COPY @ http://www.dioceseofsanpablo.com/
General Reshuffle
(Effective January 16, 2013)
Parishes under Religious congregations are not included in this list.
Bishop's Residence
Rev. Fr. David O. Reyes, Jr.
Personal Secretary to the Bishop
Rev. Fr. Rico A. Villareal
Diocesan Oeconomous
Chaplaincies
Rev. Fr. Rey Antonio M. Velasco
Chaplain
UPH Hospital & Medical Center
University of Perpetual Help – Binan Campus
Rev. Fr. Michael V. Brosas
Chaplain
Binan Doctors Hospital
St. Michael’s College of Laguna
Saint Peter's College Seminary (San Pablo City)
Rev. Fr. Emil B. Larano
Rector
Rev. Fr. Jason C. Caballes
Pastoral Formator
Rev. Fr. Christian Cletus G. Nalda
Formator
Rev. Fr. Conrado J. Rodriguez
Spiritual Director – College Dept.
Rev. Fr. Geminiano B. Formeloza
Pre College Director
Rev. Fr. Christian Edward L. Abao
Spiritual Director – Pre College
San Pablo Theological Formation House (Tagaytay City)
Rev. Fr. Jose P. Segudo, Jr.
Rector
Rev. Fr. Reynaldo R. Reloj
Vice Rector
Rev. Fr. Dennis Fidel I. Estrella
Spiritual Director / Confessor
Rev. Fr. Edgar M. Titoy
SPFY Director
Vicariate of St. Paul the First Hermit
Rev. Fr. Jerry E. Gaela
Rev. Fr. Richard V. Buenaventura (Parochial Vicar)
Rev. Fr. Nestor D. Edrozo, Jr. (Parochial Vicar)
St. Paul the First Hermit Cathedral
Poblacion, San Pablo City
Rev. Fr. Teodoro T. Real II
Nstra. Sra. Delos Remedios Parish
ADB Subdivision, Del Remedio
San Pablo City, Laguna
Rev. Fr. Marciano R. Dijan
San Roque Parish
Buncayo Park Subdivision, San Roque
San Pablo City, Laguna
Rev. Fr. Anthony S. Ricafort
San Gabriel Arkanghel Parish
Phase 2, Teomora Village, San Gabriel
San Pablo City, Laguna
Rev. Fr. Manuel R. Manggao
Immaculada Concepcion Parish
Purok 4, Concepcion
San Pablo City, Laguna
Rev. Fr. Emil A. Urriquia
Rev. Fr. Manuel F. Labing (Parochial Vicar)
St. Francis of Assisi Parish
Farconville Subdivision, San Francisco
San Pablo City, Laguna
Rev. Fr. Ricardo R. De Luna
Our Lady of the Pillar Parish
Poblacion, Alaminos
Laguna
Vicariate of San Pedro Apostol
Rev. Fr. Pablo T. Bugay, Jr.
Rev. Fr. Henry D. Rabe (Parochial Vicar)
San Pedro Apostol Parish
Poblacion, San Pedro
Laguna
Rev. Msgr. Melchor A. Barcenas
Rev. Fr. Alex C. Pontilla (Parochial Vicar)
Sto. Sepulchro Parish
Diocesan Shrine of Jesus in the Holy Sepulchre
Landayan, San Pedro
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Romulo O. Ponte
San Lorenzo Ruiz Parish
Guevarra Subdivision, Pacita II-A
San Vicente, San Pedro
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Luisito R. Maritana
Our Lady of Lourdes Parish
United San Pedro Subdivision
San Antonio, San Pedro
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Jose Thor R. Villacarlos
Rev. Fr. John Lino L. Calampiano (Parochial Vicar)
Sto. Rosario Parish
Mahal na Birhen ng Santo Rosario Parish
Pacita Complex I, San Vicente
San Pedro, Laguna
Rev. Fr. Lauro A. Ramos III
Our Lady of Fatima Parish
Aurora Heights Subdivision
San Antonio, San Pedro
Laguna
(Attached to Our Lady of Lourdes, USPS)
Vicariate of Holy Family
Rev. Fr. Ricardo M. Pajutan, Jr.
Parish of the Holy Family
Sampaguita Village,
San Pedro, Laguna
Rev. Fr. Jaime S. Niego
Rev. Fr. Ernani S. Carillo (Parochial Vicar)
Most Holy Name of Jesus Parish
Narra, Upper Village
San Pedro, Laguna
Rev. Fr. Jessie G. Somosierra
San Martin de Porres Parish
Adelina Village I, San Antonio
San Pedro, Laguna
Rev. Msgr. Licerio S. Taguilaso
St. Joseph the Worker Parish
Molave St., Calendola
San Pedro, Laguna
Rev. Msgr. Reynaldo F. Agramon
Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish
Rosario Complex, San Pedro,
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Redentor M. Dichoso
Parish of St. Joseph, the Patriarch
St. Joseph Subdivision
Langgam, Upper Village
San Pedro, Laguna
(Attached to Most Holy Name of Jesus Parish, Narra)
Vicariate of San Isidro Labrador
Rev. Fr. Reynaldo C. Hayag
Rev. Fr. Frederick M. Obcemia (Parochial Vicar)
Rev. Fr. Gerardo R. Basa (Attached Priest)
San Isidro Labrador Parish
Poblacion, City of Binan
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Juvenal Anthony S. Leonardo
Parokya ng Risen Lord
Washington Ave., corner Texas St.
Town & Country Southville Subd.,
Sto. Tomas, City of Binan, Laguna
Rev. Fr. Gary N. Almoneda
San Antonio de Padua Parish
San Antonio, City of Binan
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Joseph B. Dela Rosa
St. Joseph the Worker Parish
Olivarez South Subdivision,
Sto. Tomas, City of Binan
Laguna
(Attached to San Vicente Ferrer Parish, San Vicente)
Rev. Fr. Isagani Q. Pasawa
Nstra. Sra. Dela Paz Y Buenviaje Parish
481 A. Mabini St. Dela Paz
City of Binan, Laguna
Rev. Fr. Jeremias O. Oblepias, Jr.
San Vicente Ferrer Parish
San Vicente Road, San Vicente
City of Binan, Laguna
Rev. Fr. Erwin S. Sanchez
San Pedro Apostol Parish
St. Rose Village II, Malaban
City of Binan, Laguna
Rev. Fr. Alberto I. San Jose, Jr.
Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal Parish
Ireneville Subdivision IV,
San Francisco, City of Binan
Laguna
Vicariate of San St. Polycarp
Rev. Fr. Ireneo A. Oliver
Rev. Fr. Marcelino F. Ramos (Parochial Vicar)
St. Polycarp Parish
Poblacion, Cabuyao City
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Roy G. Reyes
San Vicente Ferrer Parish
Diocesan Shrine of San Vicente Ferrer
Mamatid, Cabuyao City
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Salve M. Llona
Parish of Mary Help of Christians
Southville Resettlement Village
Cabuyao City, Laguna
Rev. Fr. Rene B. Eriga
Rev. Fr. Jan-jan M. Alota (Parochial Vicar)
Rev. Fr. Clifford M. Miras (Parochial Vicar)
Chair of St. Peter Parish
Santa Rosa Commercial Complex
Balibago, Santa Rosa City
Laguna
Rev. Msgr. James A. Contreras
San Lorenzo Ruiz Parish
San Lorenzo Village,
City of Santa Rosa, Laguna
(Attached to Chair of St. Peter Parish, Balibago)
Rev. Fr. Armin G. Genota
St. Joseph the Worker Parish
Bigaa, Cabuyao City
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Rodolfo C. Carabuena
San Miguel Arkanghel Parish
Villa Palau Subdivision
Banlic, Calamba City
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Reginald A. Mamaril*
Santa Rosa de Lima Parish
Poblacion, City of Santa Rosa
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Eduardo E. Arupo
Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Parish
Golden City Subdivision
Dita, Santa Rosa City
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Rex MP De Los Angeles
Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish
Laguna Bel-Air Subdivision
City of Santa Rosa, Laguna
Vicariate of St. John the Baptist
Rev. Msgr. Jose D. Barrion
Rev. Fr. Noel C. Artillaga (Attached Priest)
St. John the Baptist Parish
Poblacion, Calamba City
Laguna
Rev. Fr. John Derrick I. Manalo
Sts. Peter and Paul Parish
Aplaya, Calamba City
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Danilo A. Fernandez
St. Joseph the Worker Parish
Canlubang, Calamba City
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Leandro L. Bariring, Jr.
San Vicente Ferrer Parish
Real, Calamba City
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Nelson P. Hernandez
San Agustin Parish
Parian, Calamba City
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Gabriel Ma. A. Delfino
Holy Trinity Parish
Pansol, Calamba City
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Frederick R. Yapana
Our Lady of Fatima Parish
Maligaya Village, Lawa
Calamba City, Laguna
Rev. Fr. Emmanuel C. Marfori
San Isidro Labrador Parish
Makiling, Calamba City
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Mariano A. Villamir
St. Mary Magdalene Parish
Looc, Calamba City
Laguna
Vicariate of Immaculate Conception
Rev. Fr. Zaldy C. Fortuno
Immaculate Conception Parish
Poblacion, Los Banos
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Luis A. Tolentino
St. Therese of the Child Jesus Parish
Silangan Road, UPLB Campus
Los Banos, Laguna
Rev. Fr. Larry R. Abayon
San Antonio de Padua Parish
Junction, Batong Malake
Los Banos, Laguna
Rev. Fr. John F. Tabot
St. Augustine Parish
Poblacion, Bay
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Edgardo R. Consignado
San Isidro Labrador Parish
Pablacion, Calauan
Laguna
Vicariate of San Antonio de Padua
Rev. Fr. Edwin D. Lusterio
Rev. Fr. Celso S. Gaela (Parochial Vicar)
San Antonio de Padua Parish
Diocesan Shrine of San Antonio de Padua
Poblacion, Pila
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Teodulfo B. Baria, Jr.
Rev. Fr. Philip B. Atienza (Attached Priest)
Rev. Fr. Angelo A. Brosas (Parochial Vicar)
Immaculate Conception Parish
Poblacion, Santa Cruz
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Rico V. De Vera
La Resurrecion Parish
Poblacion, Victoria
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Mauricio A. Llarena
St. Joseph Parish
Linga, Pila
Laguna
Vicariate of San Bartolome Apostol
Rev. Fr. Modelo N. Del Valle
San Bartolome Apostol Parish
Poblacion, Nagcarlan
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Buenaventura C. Ubarco
St. John the Baptist Parish
Poblacion, Liliw
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Robin A. Dagala
St. Gregory the Great Parish
Poblacion, Majayjay
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Marlu V. Marasigan
Nuestra Senora del Pilar Parish
Suba, Majayjay
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Felizardo L. Siddayao
St. Michael the Archangel Parish
Poblacion, Rizal
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Andres V. Olaso, Jr.
St. Mary Magdalene Parish
Poblacion, Magdalena
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Raul D. Matienzo
Sts. Joachim and Anne Parish
Calumpang, Liliw
Laguna
Vicariate of Our Lady of Guadalupe
Rev. Msgr. Mario Rafael M. Castillo
Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish
Diocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe
Poblacion, Pagsanjan
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Antonio Pablo G. Hidalgo
Transfiguration of Our Lord Parish
Poblacion, Cavinti
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Jorge Seldon V. Coronado
Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Parish
Poblacion, Luisiana
Laguna
Vicariate of St. James the Apostle
Rev. Fr. Jose Carlos A. Endaya
St. James the Apostle Parish
Poblacion, Paete
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Rizaldy F. Urgena
St. John the Evangelist Parish
San Juan, Kalayaan
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Leon A. Duran, Jr.
St. John the Baptist Parish
Longos, Kalayaan
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Mario P. Rivera
St. Peter of Alcantara Parish
Diocesan Shrine of Nstra. Sra. Delos Dolores de Turumba
Poblacion, Pakil
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Noel B. Conopio
Our Lady’s Nativity Parish
Poblacion, Pangil
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Antonio C. Arnaiz
San Antonio de Padua Parish
San Antonio, Kalayaan
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Rodolfo M. Lorico
St. Mark the Evangelist Parish
Balian, Pangil
Laguna
Vicariate of St. Peter and St. Paul
Rev. Fr. Rolando M. Abarca
St. Peter and St. Paul Parish
Poblacion, Siniloan
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Jose Francis A. Calo
San Sebastian Parish
Poblacion, Famy
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Crizaldo G. Punto
Mahal na Birhen ng Candelaria Parish
Poblacion, Mabitac
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Elden B. Cabuhat
Our Lady of the Angels Parish
Poblacion, Santa Maria
Laguna
Rev. Fr. Ariel S. Cardino
San Isidro Labrador Parish
Kabulusan, Pakil
Laguna
YEAR OF FAITH PRESENTATION
A press conference was held this morning in the Holy See Press Office for the presentation of the Year of Faith which is due to last from 11 October 2012 to 24 November 2013. The conference was presented by Archbishop Rino Fisichella and Msgr. Graham Bell, respectively president and under secretary of the Pontifical Council for Promoting New Evangelisation.
Archbishop Fisichella also presented the website and logo of the Year of Faith, and outlined the calendar of events due to take place in Rome during that period.
"In his Apostolic Letter 'Porta fidei' Benedict XVI speaks ... of the need to rediscover the journey of faith so as to shed ever clearer light on the joy and renewed enthusiasm of the encounter with Christ", the archbishop said. "For this reason he called the Year of Faith, which will also coincide with two anniversaries: the fiftieth anniversary of the beginning of Vatican Council II and the twentieth anniversary of the publication of the Catechism of the Catholic Church. ... The Year of Faith aims, above all, to support the faith of believers who, in their daily trials, never cease to entrust to entrust their lives to the Lord Jesus, with courage and conviction. Their precious testimony, which does not make the news, ... is what enables the Church to present herself to the world today, as she did in the past, supported by the strength of the faith and the enthusiasm of ordinary people.
"The Year of Faith", Archbishop Fisichella added, "falls into a broader context which is characterised by a generalised crisis that also touches the faith. ... The crisis of faith is a dramatic expression of an anthropological crisis which has abandoned man to his own devices. We must overcome the spiritual poverty affecting so many of our contemporaries who do no longer perceive the absence of God from their lives as a void that needs to be filled. The Year of Faith, then, is an opportunity which the Christian community offers to the many people who feel nostalgia for God and who desire to rediscover Him".
The programme of events for the Year "touches the daily life of all believers and the ordinary pastoral care of the Christian community, in order to rediscover that genuine missionary spirit which we need in order to give life to the new evangelisation". In this context, the archbishop announced that the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments has approved the formula for a special "Mass for New Evangelisation". This, he said, is a sign that during the Year of Faith "priority will be given to prayer, and especially to the Eucharist as source and summit of all Christian life".
The president of the Pontifical Council for Promoting New Evangelisation then went on to present the logo of the Year of Faith in which the image of a ship symbolises the Church. The mast of the vessel is a cross with full-blown sails which form the monogram of Christ (IHS) and in the background is a sun representing the Eucharist. The website of the event (www.annusfidei.va) is available in various languages and can be consulted by smartphone and tablet. The Year also has an official hymn entitled: "Credo, Domine, adauge nobis fidem". A multilingual pastoral guide entitled "Living the Year of Faith" is due to be published in early September and pilgrims will receive an image of the Christ from the cathedral of Cefalu in Sicily, with the Creed written on the back.
Finally Archbishop Fisichella turned his attention to the most important events of the Year of Faith, those to be celebrated in Rome in the presence of the Holy Father: They include the opening, which "will take place in St. Peter's Square on Thursday 11 October, fiftieth anniversary of the beginning of Vatican Council II. There will be a solemn Eucharistic celebration concelebrated by the Synod Fathers, the presidents of the world's episcopal conferences and by Council Fathers who are still alive".
Sunday 21 October will see the canonisation of seven martyrs: Jacques Berthieu, Pedro Calungsod, Giovanni Battista Piamarta, Maria del Carmen (born Maria Salles y Barangueras), Kateri Tekakwitha, Maria Anna Cope, and Anna Schaffer. On 25 January 2013, during the traditional ecumenical celebration at the Roman basilica of St. Paul's Outside-the-Walls, participants will pray that, "through their joint profession of the Symbol, Christians ... may not forget the path of unity". On 28 April the Holy Father will impart the Sacrament of Confirmation to a group of young people, while 5 May will be dedicated to expressions of popular piety.
On 18 May, the eve of Pentecost, Catholic movements, both old and new, will gather in St. Peter's Square. On 2 June, Corpus Christi, the Blessed Sacrament will be adored at the same time all over the world. Sunday 16 June will be dedicated to the Gospel of Life. On 7 July seminarians and novices from all over the world will conclude their pilgrimage by gathering in St. Peter's Square. The 29 September will be dedicated to catechists on the twentieth anniversary of the publication of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and 13 October will focus on the presence of Mary in the Church. Finally, the closing celebration of the Year of Faith will take place on 24 November 2013.
The Year of Faith will also include a number of cultural events including an exhibition on St. Peter to be held at Castel Sant'Angelo from 7 February 2013 to 1 May 2013 and a concert in St. Peter's Square on 22 June 2013.
Archbishop Fisichella also presented the website and logo of the Year of Faith, and outlined the calendar of events due to take place in Rome during that period.
"In his Apostolic Letter 'Porta fidei' Benedict XVI speaks ... of the need to rediscover the journey of faith so as to shed ever clearer light on the joy and renewed enthusiasm of the encounter with Christ", the archbishop said. "For this reason he called the Year of Faith, which will also coincide with two anniversaries: the fiftieth anniversary of the beginning of Vatican Council II and the twentieth anniversary of the publication of the Catechism of the Catholic Church. ... The Year of Faith aims, above all, to support the faith of believers who, in their daily trials, never cease to entrust to entrust their lives to the Lord Jesus, with courage and conviction. Their precious testimony, which does not make the news, ... is what enables the Church to present herself to the world today, as she did in the past, supported by the strength of the faith and the enthusiasm of ordinary people.
"The Year of Faith", Archbishop Fisichella added, "falls into a broader context which is characterised by a generalised crisis that also touches the faith. ... The crisis of faith is a dramatic expression of an anthropological crisis which has abandoned man to his own devices. We must overcome the spiritual poverty affecting so many of our contemporaries who do no longer perceive the absence of God from their lives as a void that needs to be filled. The Year of Faith, then, is an opportunity which the Christian community offers to the many people who feel nostalgia for God and who desire to rediscover Him".
The programme of events for the Year "touches the daily life of all believers and the ordinary pastoral care of the Christian community, in order to rediscover that genuine missionary spirit which we need in order to give life to the new evangelisation". In this context, the archbishop announced that the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments has approved the formula for a special "Mass for New Evangelisation". This, he said, is a sign that during the Year of Faith "priority will be given to prayer, and especially to the Eucharist as source and summit of all Christian life".
The president of the Pontifical Council for Promoting New Evangelisation then went on to present the logo of the Year of Faith in which the image of a ship symbolises the Church. The mast of the vessel is a cross with full-blown sails which form the monogram of Christ (IHS) and in the background is a sun representing the Eucharist. The website of the event (www.annusfidei.va) is available in various languages and can be consulted by smartphone and tablet. The Year also has an official hymn entitled: "Credo, Domine, adauge nobis fidem". A multilingual pastoral guide entitled "Living the Year of Faith" is due to be published in early September and pilgrims will receive an image of the Christ from the cathedral of Cefalu in Sicily, with the Creed written on the back.
Finally Archbishop Fisichella turned his attention to the most important events of the Year of Faith, those to be celebrated in Rome in the presence of the Holy Father: They include the opening, which "will take place in St. Peter's Square on Thursday 11 October, fiftieth anniversary of the beginning of Vatican Council II. There will be a solemn Eucharistic celebration concelebrated by the Synod Fathers, the presidents of the world's episcopal conferences and by Council Fathers who are still alive".
Sunday 21 October will see the canonisation of seven martyrs: Jacques Berthieu, Pedro Calungsod, Giovanni Battista Piamarta, Maria del Carmen (born Maria Salles y Barangueras), Kateri Tekakwitha, Maria Anna Cope, and Anna Schaffer. On 25 January 2013, during the traditional ecumenical celebration at the Roman basilica of St. Paul's Outside-the-Walls, participants will pray that, "through their joint profession of the Symbol, Christians ... may not forget the path of unity". On 28 April the Holy Father will impart the Sacrament of Confirmation to a group of young people, while 5 May will be dedicated to expressions of popular piety.
On 18 May, the eve of Pentecost, Catholic movements, both old and new, will gather in St. Peter's Square. On 2 June, Corpus Christi, the Blessed Sacrament will be adored at the same time all over the world. Sunday 16 June will be dedicated to the Gospel of Life. On 7 July seminarians and novices from all over the world will conclude their pilgrimage by gathering in St. Peter's Square. The 29 September will be dedicated to catechists on the twentieth anniversary of the publication of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and 13 October will focus on the presence of Mary in the Church. Finally, the closing celebration of the Year of Faith will take place on 24 November 2013.
The Year of Faith will also include a number of cultural events including an exhibition on St. Peter to be held at Castel Sant'Angelo from 7 February 2013 to 1 May 2013 and a concert in St. Peter's Square on 22 June 2013.
The Miraculous Lolo Uweng of Landayan, San Pedro
Laguna is one of the provinces wherein I and family used to visit, and to make it more specific, we what we used to visit there is the church in Laguna which is known as the Diocesan Shrine of Saint Sepulchre or Lolo Uweng ng Landayan in San Pedro, Laguna.
It’s been years since our first visit there. I still remember what my grandmother had said “Tara kay Lolo Uwe sa Landayan”. I got confused right away since I don’t remember any relatives of us whom we called as Lolo Uwe especially in Laguna but I decided to keep my thoughts and wait until we arrived there.
After an hour of trip from Batangas, we reached Laguna, and entered a narrow but crowded road. The road was full of street vendors and there’s heavy traffic. After a few minutes we reach the church and I was surprised by the huge crowd. People from different places in the region traveled all along just to show their devotion.
The church was wide and oftentimes compared to the famous Quiapo Church because of countless devotees who visit the church every Friday which became a sort of “tourist and religious attraction” for the bustling municipality of San Pedro, Laguna.
After the mass, we joined the very long lane at the right side of the church. As we reached the end of it, there we found the miraculous patron — Jesus in the Holy Sepulchre whom people fondly called as “Lolo Uweng”.
People believed that Lolo Uweng can truly create miracles and heals if one just believe and continue their devotion and faith. Also, a number of people had already proven the miracles made by the Holy Sepulchre from their own experiences.
Now, the Shrine of Jesus Christ in the Holy Sepulchre has become
not just a pilgrim’s place for healing, but also a center for believers enjoying the exhilarating journey of a growing connection with the Lord Himself.
Some may believe it and others may doubt it, but for me miracle truly happens, we only have to believe and have faith in Him.
It’s been years since our first visit there. I still remember what my grandmother had said “Tara kay Lolo Uwe sa Landayan”. I got confused right away since I don’t remember any relatives of us whom we called as Lolo Uwe especially in Laguna but I decided to keep my thoughts and wait until we arrived there.
After an hour of trip from Batangas, we reached Laguna, and entered a narrow but crowded road. The road was full of street vendors and there’s heavy traffic. After a few minutes we reach the church and I was surprised by the huge crowd. People from different places in the region traveled all along just to show their devotion.
The church was wide and oftentimes compared to the famous Quiapo Church because of countless devotees who visit the church every Friday which became a sort of “tourist and religious attraction” for the bustling municipality of San Pedro, Laguna.
After the mass, we joined the very long lane at the right side of the church. As we reached the end of it, there we found the miraculous patron — Jesus in the Holy Sepulchre whom people fondly called as “Lolo Uweng”.
People believed that Lolo Uweng can truly create miracles and heals if one just believe and continue their devotion and faith. Also, a number of people had already proven the miracles made by the Holy Sepulchre from their own experiences.
Now, the Shrine of Jesus Christ in the Holy Sepulchre has become
not just a pilgrim’s place for healing, but also a center for believers enjoying the exhilarating journey of a growing connection with the Lord Himself.
Some may believe it and others may doubt it, but for me miracle truly happens, we only have to believe and have faith in Him.
Holy Week 2012: The Many Faces of “Lolo Uweng”
Despite being a true-blooded San Pedronian since birth, I was never able to meet “Lolo Uweng” up close. In fact, I was only able to visit his home at Santo Sepulcro Church in Barangay Landayan, San Pedro, Laguna twice, the first time being a requirement from my former High School. It may seem embarrassing but despite living within San Pedro, Laguna, I was far beyond other people (even those from other far-away towns and provinces) in the number of visits/encounters that they had with him.
Realizing this personal embarrassment that I had, I invited my mom to go to Landayan to see him. Gratefully, on a Maundy Thursday (April 5, 2012), I was able to fulfill my dream to finally pay him a visit.
Realizing this personal embarrassment that I had, I invited my mom to go to Landayan to see him. Gratefully, on a Maundy Thursday (April 5, 2012), I was able to fulfill my dream to finally pay him a visit.
“Lolo Uweng” in the Eyes of the Merchants
Stalls leading to Sto. Sepulcro Shrine
As soon as the alarm rang, I and my mom started preparing for the visit. We left home at around 6:30 in the morning, bringing with us two “Way of the Cross” booklets, an umbrella and a bottle of water. The church was not far from our house in Brgy. San Antonio, so we embarked along the National Hi-way around 7 in the morning.
The church is not far away from the San Pedro-National Highway so we
Stalls leading to Sto. Sepulcro Shrine
decided to walk from the main arch. On the way to the Church, sidewalk vendors of various goods, clothes, and accessories welcomed us. I and my mom did not realize that San Pedro has its own Divisoria or Baclaran. We were surprised at a great number of street vendors lined up, calling us to buy their merchandises.
There were huge tags hanging in every store. There were stalls filled with curtains, shorts, tops, cd’s/dvd’s, jewelries, and many more. It was like Christmas set on a Holy Week.
As soon as we turned right to the Church façade, religious items and candles swarmed our path. But more than the relics of the saints and of Jesus Christ and of the burning candles, there was also a great number of “kakanin” or rice cakes (suman, cuchinta, biko, cassava cake, etc.) being sold everywhere. You would have mistaken the place to be a feast or a convention of “kakanin” because of the large volume of food being laid out on every stall.
Stalls leading to Sto. Sepulcro Shrine
As soon as the alarm rang, I and my mom started preparing for the visit. We left home at around 6:30 in the morning, bringing with us two “Way of the Cross” booklets, an umbrella and a bottle of water. The church was not far from our house in Brgy. San Antonio, so we embarked along the National Hi-way around 7 in the morning.
The church is not far away from the San Pedro-National Highway so we
Stalls leading to Sto. Sepulcro Shrine
decided to walk from the main arch. On the way to the Church, sidewalk vendors of various goods, clothes, and accessories welcomed us. I and my mom did not realize that San Pedro has its own Divisoria or Baclaran. We were surprised at a great number of street vendors lined up, calling us to buy their merchandises.
There were huge tags hanging in every store. There were stalls filled with curtains, shorts, tops, cd’s/dvd’s, jewelries, and many more. It was like Christmas set on a Holy Week.
As soon as we turned right to the Church façade, religious items and candles swarmed our path. But more than the relics of the saints and of Jesus Christ and of the burning candles, there was also a great number of “kakanin” or rice cakes (suman, cuchinta, biko, cassava cake, etc.) being sold everywhere. You would have mistaken the place to be a feast or a convention of “kakanin” because of the large volume of food being laid out on every stall.
Lolo Uweng in the Eyes of the Devotees
As we enter the former “visita”, we were faced by people who were either praying privately or completing the “Stations of the Cross.” We were about to say a prayer when we decided to visit Lolo Uweng first.
Hallway leading to the Shrine of Lolo Uweng
The entrance to the shrine is located along the right side of the air-conditioned church. Luckily, it only took us 5-7 minutes of wait. Normally, on a very hectic day and hour, it would take about 30 minutes to a few hours before one could see Lolo Uweng.
Behind me and my mom were many other people excited to see the Miraculous Lolo Uweng. I overheard people talking about the miracles “Lolo” has caused the sick, the old, and the oppressed. I wonder how many people have been healed for such a religious icon to generate a crowd as huge as this.
Upon reaching the “camarin” and after taking a few clicks from afar, I then
Lolo Uweng
walked towards Lolo Uweng to see him finally face to face. I inserted my hand through a hole in His glass casket and held His hand. I immediately whispered Him thanks and asked for His blessings.
Truth is, it was only a few seconds that I get to talk to Him; yet the impact of having able to meet him was immense. It just feels so great there was a way for me to say thanks and to share my own repentance and worries to.
Inside Sto. Sepulcro Church
After the great encounter, we reentered the Church, knelt down, and offered a few prayers and reflection. Then we began with the praying of the “Stations of the Cross.”
There were a number of families, groups of friends, and prayer buddies who were together with us in transferring from one station to another. It was fulfilling because at the same time that we offered our thanksgiving, we reminded ourselves of the spots where Jesus Christ patiently and uncomplainingly endured all sufferings. After the praying of the 14 stations, we were refreshed once again of the goodness and greatness of Christ’s love for us, his children.
Inside Sto. Sepulcro Church
Outside, at the back of the basketball covered court which was just in front of the church, was a sight of people gathered and lined up. Curious, I went to see what they’re up to. Then I saw people bathing around a well they call “Balon ni Lolo Uweng.” There I saw men, women, and children all wet, dipping and drinking the water being fetched from the well. According to the old ladies I’ve spoken with within the area, the water has proven to have miraculous effects. By drinking the water or by bathing oneself with the water, any person wishing to be healed would definitely be cured and restored to health.
The Hooded and Scourged Penitents of Brgy. Landayan
On our way home, we were once again surprised by another group of penitents parading on the streets, scourging and beating their bodies with metal chains. There were about six of them, the first one carrying the cross like Jesus. Their heads were covered with black hoods while their bodies only wore pants, thus leaving their upper bodies naked. Their front and back bodies were both filled with blood and were enveloped with wounds and cuts. Their chains were echoing together with their resounding woes and cries. Through their images I saw how intense they were repenting for their sins.
According to a vendor who was with us watching the penitents hurt themselves, the hooded participants could have been addicts or criminals who have done something serious or grave at least once in their entire existence. She explained that no person would ever repent that much if their sins were also not too severe to be forgiven. She guessed the penitents were too bothered of their own sins that they needed an equally extensive method to atone for their wrongdoings.
Arriving home, I was reflecting on the many things I have seen, heard, and discovered. “People really have their own reasons and their own ways of celebrating the holy days and of meeting Lolo Uweng,” I told myself. While many people visit and see “Lolo Uweng” to take in financial opportunities, many do see Him as a channel for help and as a great image of repentance and penitence. Lolo indeed has been impacting these people substantially.
But more than the many faces I’ve seen, one quality of Lolo Uweng binds them altogether; that is His being “miraculous.” Lolo Uweng not just miraculously gives the sick and the sorrowful hope; he also miraculously gives the merchants the chance to resolve their financial troubles through the time, confidence, and opportunity he gives them.
In a country embraced by difficulties, hardships, and troubles, Lolo Uweng is a symbol of faith and optimism among the Filipino people. With him, people are kept composed and are left hopeful and positive for a brighter day ahead.
Hallway leading to the Shrine of Lolo Uweng
The entrance to the shrine is located along the right side of the air-conditioned church. Luckily, it only took us 5-7 minutes of wait. Normally, on a very hectic day and hour, it would take about 30 minutes to a few hours before one could see Lolo Uweng.
Behind me and my mom were many other people excited to see the Miraculous Lolo Uweng. I overheard people talking about the miracles “Lolo” has caused the sick, the old, and the oppressed. I wonder how many people have been healed for such a religious icon to generate a crowd as huge as this.
Upon reaching the “camarin” and after taking a few clicks from afar, I then
Lolo Uweng
walked towards Lolo Uweng to see him finally face to face. I inserted my hand through a hole in His glass casket and held His hand. I immediately whispered Him thanks and asked for His blessings.
Truth is, it was only a few seconds that I get to talk to Him; yet the impact of having able to meet him was immense. It just feels so great there was a way for me to say thanks and to share my own repentance and worries to.
Inside Sto. Sepulcro Church
After the great encounter, we reentered the Church, knelt down, and offered a few prayers and reflection. Then we began with the praying of the “Stations of the Cross.”
There were a number of families, groups of friends, and prayer buddies who were together with us in transferring from one station to another. It was fulfilling because at the same time that we offered our thanksgiving, we reminded ourselves of the spots where Jesus Christ patiently and uncomplainingly endured all sufferings. After the praying of the 14 stations, we were refreshed once again of the goodness and greatness of Christ’s love for us, his children.
Inside Sto. Sepulcro Church
Outside, at the back of the basketball covered court which was just in front of the church, was a sight of people gathered and lined up. Curious, I went to see what they’re up to. Then I saw people bathing around a well they call “Balon ni Lolo Uweng.” There I saw men, women, and children all wet, dipping and drinking the water being fetched from the well. According to the old ladies I’ve spoken with within the area, the water has proven to have miraculous effects. By drinking the water or by bathing oneself with the water, any person wishing to be healed would definitely be cured and restored to health.
The Hooded and Scourged Penitents of Brgy. Landayan
On our way home, we were once again surprised by another group of penitents parading on the streets, scourging and beating their bodies with metal chains. There were about six of them, the first one carrying the cross like Jesus. Their heads were covered with black hoods while their bodies only wore pants, thus leaving their upper bodies naked. Their front and back bodies were both filled with blood and were enveloped with wounds and cuts. Their chains were echoing together with their resounding woes and cries. Through their images I saw how intense they were repenting for their sins.
According to a vendor who was with us watching the penitents hurt themselves, the hooded participants could have been addicts or criminals who have done something serious or grave at least once in their entire existence. She explained that no person would ever repent that much if their sins were also not too severe to be forgiven. She guessed the penitents were too bothered of their own sins that they needed an equally extensive method to atone for their wrongdoings.
Arriving home, I was reflecting on the many things I have seen, heard, and discovered. “People really have their own reasons and their own ways of celebrating the holy days and of meeting Lolo Uweng,” I told myself. While many people visit and see “Lolo Uweng” to take in financial opportunities, many do see Him as a channel for help and as a great image of repentance and penitence. Lolo indeed has been impacting these people substantially.
But more than the many faces I’ve seen, one quality of Lolo Uweng binds them altogether; that is His being “miraculous.” Lolo Uweng not just miraculously gives the sick and the sorrowful hope; he also miraculously gives the merchants the chance to resolve their financial troubles through the time, confidence, and opportunity he gives them.
In a country embraced by difficulties, hardships, and troubles, Lolo Uweng is a symbol of faith and optimism among the Filipino people. With him, people are kept composed and are left hopeful and positive for a brighter day ahead.