Mrs Villegas

In 1986, the Philippines had its first woman president. The following year, Letran (Manila) High School had its first woman principal in the person of Mrs Lucita Ablaza-Villegas. I was a freshman then. Prior to her appointment, she was assistant principal in the same department. 

A few days before the Christmas break, two sections competed in raising gifts for a charitable institution in Tagaytay. My section won and, as previously agreed with Ms Edna Marco (our Religion teacher), would be bringing the gifts to Tagaytay. Ms Marco told my classmate Gary Ramos and I to see Mrs Villegas to consult her on what we should wear for our trip.

When Gary and I went into her office, she stood from her chair, walked, and sat near us. We felt at ease. When we asked her what she thought would be the appropriate attire, she asked us what we had in mind. I told her, "Well, Ma'am, you're the boss". She smiled and told us that we can wear non-uniform, but would prefer to have us wear our ID. Towards the end of our visit, she shook our hands and I took that chance to introduce myself as Larry Albano's nephew. She was delighted. (In a separate occasion, she told my classmates that my Lola Piling was her "ninang".)

That delight turned into dismay when, a few months later, she went into our classroom to check if all students were wearing their IDs. Her aim was to ensure that the department was consistent with its policy. She asked who was the class president so I came forward. When she instructed me to make a list of those without ID, I humbly admitted that I was one of them. She gave me a tongue-lashing. Indeed, I acted unbecoming of a class officer. From then on, I saw to it that I wore my ID while in school. As a teacher now, I could understand where she was coming from.

In my sophomore year, she became our Philippine History teacher for a quarter as our teacher was on leave. Every week, she would require us to write a reaction on the editorial of a national newspaper. Initially I was lazy to submit the work. Looking back, these assignments challenged me to read and think critically. She also encouraged us to prefer Filipino over imported goods. To demonstrate, she stood in class and proudly told us, while pointing at her flowery pair of shoes, "Itong sapatos ko, yari sa Marikina". Even though an expat living in the UK for 22 years, deep within me is a yearning to do something for the Philippines. 

There was also a time when I interviewed her for an assignment on the use of the national language. I was shy to see her personally so I left a note with interview questions to her secretary. A few minutes later, a security guard came to our classroom to hand in my note with Ma'am's response. She wanted to see me. I complied and she personally gave me her views and feedback. Working in education can be a challenge especially with time management. For Ma'am, it is not having time, but making time that matters. 

By the time I graduated, Mrs Villegas had already been appointed Director for Student Services. Still, she attended my graduation. As my name was called and walked past her on stage, I could hear her giving me a loud applause. Fast forward, when I had a chat with her in social media about fellow Letranite Fr Rufino "Jun" Sescon being named a bishop, she replied, "Yes Arriba Letran! I'm proud of him".

Mrs Villegas had one unforgettable quotation: "You are Letranites!" Letran was then getting ready for the NCAA games and to stave off any unruly behaviour typical of Letran students, she said these words to us. Season or out of season, her saying serves as a wake-up call. 

You are Letranites! Whenever we despair or become presumptuous, let us put on hope on God who "has not despised or abhorred the affliction of the afflicted, and He has not hidden His face from him, but has heard, when he cried to Him..."(Ps 22:24).

You are Letranites!  When we are tempted to be indifferent to the plight of the least, the last, and the lost in our country, let us, as one Letran song goes, "magkaisa't magdamayan".

You are Letranites! When we have lost our identity as such, let the examples of our patron St John the Baptist, as well as fellow Letranites such as St Vicente Liem de la Paz and Manuel Quezon inspire us to conquer new glories for our and Mrs Villegas' beloved Letran.

Mrs Villegas, thank you for your leadership and friendship. Your passing away came as a shock as we were just chatting about you going to the La Naval celebration and me asking you to give Our Lady a flying kiss on my behalf. Thank you for being true to yourself by being such a light to those around you. Thank you for your reminder that I am a Letranite wherever and whatever my circumstances are. May Jesus, the Light whom you strove to mirror, welcome you into His kingdom of peace and happiness. 

To Coach Nemie, Mary Queen, and the rest of the Ablaza-Villegas family, my sincerest condolences. 

It's OK Not to be OK

Before I carry on, let me be clear that this has nothing to do with the K-drama with the same title. I must admit though that it was a beautiful drama series. 

Since the onset of Covid-19 five years ago, there have been a handful of deaths among family and friends. Intellectually, I would accept that as something natural, that we're all going to experience that at some point in time. However, emotionally it is something painful and difficult. Indeed, as Dr Abercio Rotor, one of my professors in UST Graduate School, would put it "[in the  death of a loved one] there is a part of us that has also died."

This came really true in my father's passing. 

Being the eldest among my siblings, I have tried my best to show composure during bereavement. When my paternal grandmother passed away twenty five years ago, I kept myself busy with contacting other relatives, friends, and acquaintances to inform them of the sad news (my Lola died and was buried in the States), made arrangements for a Requiem Mass, etc. Before I know it, I was just carrying on as normal...not! 

During New Year's Eve 2000, as I was saying Grace before our medianoche, I broke down in tears. It was only then that I was able to mourn for my Lola's passing. 

Fast forward, when I arrived in Oklahoma this May, I was shown the room where Papa passed away two days previously. My bed was already fixed, on the same spot where he died. I knelt before the bed and said my prayers, and cried. Kristina, my youngest sister, consoled me and gave me a hug.

I thought that our family puts up a strong face during such sorrowful events, but I was wrong. Everyone shed a tear for Papa. Everyone showed how vulnerable they were at the loss of a loved one.

As we left the crematorium, I tried to maintain my composure. But when my sister Nicola asked, "Are you OK?", I couldn't hide my grief. For a few minutes, we were just there in the car park crying.

The moral of the story is this: if you have to cry, then cry. It can be privately - I find visits before the Blessed Sacrament to be quite an uplifting experience. It can be with family or friends that you can trust. Allow yourself to mourn. Don't bottle it up like a firecracker that once ignited would be blown into smithereens. There are moments in life, such as bereavement, when it's OK not to be OK.

Consecration to St Joseph

The last public Mass I attended was on the Solemnity of St Joseph, Patron of the Universal Church. I felt it was ironic that the penultimate public Mass in England before the lockdown happened when the Church celebrates the feast of her patron. Be it as it may, Fr John Martin, our parish priest encouraged us to "go joyfully glorifying the Lord by your life".  The lock down meant homeschooling for Chiara and working from home for me. Nidz, the bravest of us three, is a front liner in the health service.

Previous to the lock down, I received from the post the book "Consecration to St. Joseph: The Wonders of Our Spiritual Father" by Fr Donald Calloway, MIC. I learned about it from social media. I listened to the talk of Fr Calloway and decided to order the book, after all, St Joseph is my patron. He's the saint I fondly call Tay (short for Tatay or Itay, the Tagalog word for father). The book was published at a very appropriate year - 2020 marks the 150th anniversary when Pope Pius IX declared St Joseph as Patron of the Universal Church.

The book is divided into three parts. Part 1 focuses on a 33-day preparation where, on each day, a short invocation on the Litany of St Joseph is explained. Part 2 showcases the wonders of this beloved saint as written by saints, mystics, popes, and other devotees. Part 3 features various prayers to St Joseph, including acts of consecration to him.

Statue of St Joseph (a gift from my former teacher and colleague, Prof Maribel G Nonato)

Initially I planned to do the 33 day devotion on 30th March (to finish on 1st May, feast of St Joseph the Worker) on my own. The lock down changed that! I talked to my wife about the devotion and asked her what if we do this as a family? She agreed with me. And so, for 33 nights, we gathered in front of an altar with a statue of St Joseph and read through the book. Chiara was our main reader. She told me how she enjoyed doing it as well as learning a lot from St Joseph. I felt the same way too! It was refreshing to revisit the Church's teachings on this great man, testimonies from people who looked up to him as their spiritual father, and the Seven Sorrows and Joys of St Joseph. I once wrote about this devotion and Fr Calloway's book serves as some sort of affirmation to my own work.

There were also some stories there that I vaguely or never knew before such as the Holy House of Loreto, the Santo Anello (holy ring), the Miraculous Staircase, St Joseph's Holy Cloak, how Pope Pius IX eventually declared St Joseph as Patron of the Universal Church in 1870, and the bishop whose testimony moved Pope John XXIII to include St Joseph in the Roman Canon (Eucharistic Prayer I).

The author also wrote his thoughts, backed up by good and strong references, whether St Joseph was an old man or not when he became engaged to Mary. I am glad that this was included. Personally, I am not a fan of St Joseph being depicted as an aged dad, but as a young man. We laughed when Fr Calloway quoted the saintly Mother Angelica: "Old men don't walk to Egypt". 

When we were reflecting on St Joseph as "Patron of the Dying", it brought back memories of St Joseph de Gagalangin Parish Church (where I was baptised). Back in the day, the main altar had a huge and beautiful painting of the dying St Joseph. To his right stood Jesus holding St Joseph's forehead with His left hand (I think the Lord's right hand was raised in blessing). To St Joseph's left was Mary in tears. In the foreground were two angels and a vase with lilies. On top of the painting were two cherubs and an inscription: "Mahal na Poong San Jose, ipanalangin mo kami" (Dear lord St Joseph, pray for us). Unfortunately, the painting is now gone when the altar was renovated in 1985.  The reflection reaffirmed too my belief that one of the gifts of devotion to St Joseph is a peaceful death. My late grandmother Pilar passed away peacefully. She was a devotee of St Joseph.

Learning more about St Joseph made me, or should I say made us three, love him more. And from that love comes a desire to imitate him further so we could serve Jesus whom he served faithfully and lovingly. 

I am very grateful for joining in this 33-day preparation with my family. The lockdown may have shut our churches, but it made our home a domestic Church indeed. The journey with Tay Joseph continues! If you want to know more about St Joseph and how he could be your spiritual father, I strongly recommend that you buy this book. 

St Joseph, our spiritual father, pray for us!

Will You Come and Follow Me?

A week ago, 104 people from across the Diocese of Nottingham were commissioned as extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion by Bishop Patrick McKinney at the Cathedral of St Barnabas. Two of those commissioned were from the Parish of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour: Jane Kabiru and yours truly. Deacon Martyn Swaby was there too to represent Fr John Martin and the parish. The cathedral was full of people that day. 

In his homily, Bishop Patrick asked the congregation if anyone could claim to be qualified to become an extraordinary minister of Holy Communion. To which he said "No one". Underscoring how the disciples fed the crowd from five loaves of bread and two fish (Lk 9:10-17), the Bishop spoke of the importance of giving to the Lord what one has and He will use it in ministering to His people, the Church. The Homily was followed by the Rite of Commissioning where each of those 104 people received  from the Bishop their scapular and certificate of commissioning. 

After being commissioned, I sat back to my seat and reflected on what the Bishop said. True, no one is worthy or qualified. All that matters is one's willingness to serve. I also thought of what Fr Michael Eastwood, Chairman of the Diocesan Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion Commission, told us during our formation way back in September. He spoke about commitment and encouraged us, when waking up in the morning, to offer to Jesus that day and ask Him to help us do what is right, to be faithful, just for that day. He explained that we cannot undo the past nor know what will happen in the future. Hence, the need to be faithful, in the present.

"The Summons" which was sung during the Presentation of Gifts that day sums up that momentous occasion: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TkuowlcfcOw

In my prayer, I called to mind my late grandparents Paulino and Pilar Albano. Both used to serve as extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion. Both instilled in me the value of serving at Mass. If they were still alive, they would be celebrating this year their 80th wedding anniversary.

I would like to thank my family, Fr John Martin, Fr Gerry Murphy (former Parish Priest), Deacon Martyn Swaby, John Staniland, and fellow parishioners for their support in my rediscovered ministry. Seven years ago, Fr Murphy recruited me as an extraordinary minister on a temporary basis. However, I was then unable to go forward and be commissioned. I thought that was it. Surprisingly, an opportunity became available last summer. It seems to me that the Lord is calling me once again to this ministry. O Sacrament Most Holy, O Sacrament Divine, all praise and all thanksgiving be every moment Thine!

Please remember me and my fellow ministers in your prayers. Thank you.

Post-referendum Thoughts

Last Thursday night, my eyes were eagerly glued on the telly as the results of the EU referendum in the UK begin to unravel. Gibraltar, a British overseas territory on the southern end of the Iberian peninsula, delivered its votes with 95% in favour of remain. Then came a few local government units in the country with results still favouring remain. Until it was Sunderland's turn to deliver its votes. I switched off the telly without any clue of who will win. Morning came with Leave votes garnering 51.9% vs. Remain votes with 48.1%.

A domino effect followed: David Cameron announced that he is stepping down as Prime Minister, the pound plunged against its counterparts (i.e. dollars, euros, etc.), the Conservative and Labour Parties (two main political parties here) are in turmoil, and Scotland and Northern Ireland (who both voted Remain) reignited their cause for independence. Worse of all, an atmosphere of hatred has been fostered by some quarters who took the referendum results as a license to demonstrate their bigotry. I think this was fuelled by the Leave campaigners capitalising on the EU immigration/free movement issue policy.

There's a news item about a Polish centre being vandalised by still unidentified bigots. Then there's this group of men ganging up on a Muslim woman shouting "Out, out, out!". Still another story of someone saying in a patronising way how sorry he is that the person next to him is leaving the country. On telly, I saw a man getting out of his car - in the middle of the road, mind you!- just to tell another man from an ethnic minority group to get out of the country. The other man retorted that he is a British citizen. The racist countered that the other man's accent isn't British! 

In my former job, many years back, I had a phone caller who didn't believe that I was based in Nottingham for the absurd reason that my accent wasn't Nottingham. Still, I maintained my composure throughout the call, but reported it to my manager afterwards. My manager told me to make a note of it and put the call through to him if this racist customer calls again and doesn't behave himself.

Cameron will soon have his successor. Ditto Jeremy Corbyn (Labour Party Leader). The pound and UK shares are currently showing signs of progression which is good. However, racism is an issue that we should keep an eye on.  What I loved in the UK ever since I came here 13 years ago was that its people welcomed and valued those from ethnic minorities. Unless such racist acts are tackled head-on, the country will end up in oblivion.

Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Archbishop of Westminster and President of the Bishops Conference of England and Wales, writes: "Racism and hatred must never be tolerated, but there is no need for fear...We need to grasp again our basic sense of purpose; in living together, creating together and fashioning a society. It is that sense of purpose that we may have lost focus of; believing that the purpose of politics is to manipulate power; the purpose of business is simply to make profit for a few. This challenge has been with us for a while now.  Our purpose must be our common good, the good of all with no one excluded. Our politicians have to deal with their issues, businessmen and banks with their issues, but the fundamental purpose is to build a world in which strength is used for service and no one is excluded."

I learned that the referendum results is mere advisory and that withdrawal of the UK from the EU is in the hands of Parliament by repealing the 1972 European Communities Act. This is the law which took UK to be part of the EU. By the looks of it, a general election I think seems to be in order, to start afresh if you like since, as one politician confessed "They (i.e. the public) don't believe us". Whether that will happen or not, I hope and pray that our leaders in government would have the wisdom and courage to think of what is best for the country in the aftermath of this historical referendum. As Cardinal Nichols would put it: "The great challenge for those leading the nation now is to speak for everyone. If a victory in a referendum remains a point of division, then we become weaker and weaker as a nation and not play a part in the international scene tackling the world’s problem, which are great and challenging."

In these challenging times, my late grandmother's exhortation comes into fore: "Hanapin mo ang kalooban ng Diyos. Sabihin mo lagi 'Panginoon, ituro mo sa akin ang kalooban Mo'". (Search for the will of God. Always say, 'Lord teach me Your will').

***

Best wishes to my aunt Lilia Reyes who will be celebrating her 83rd birthday tomorrow!  In my book, Tia Lils is an apostle of Mercy. During those troubling times of my childhood, she welcomed my siblings and I into their home and treated us as her own. The years we stayed with them are memorable and inspiring.  I look forward to see her and her family soon. God bless you, Tia Lils! We love you!

***

I would like to take this opportunity to convey my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families of the late Norma Quevedo-Javier and Tita Almeida.

Auntie Norma belonged to the first batch of Midwifery students who graduated from St Rita Hospital in the early 50s. She would later work in the Accounting Department (in the same institution) until she retired in 1993. A soft spoken, hardworking, and religious lady, we would often chat about the intricacies of life. "Never attack a priest," was one of her advice to me. When I was coordinating the religious activities of the hospital, she gave me the moral support I needed. She passed away yesterday.

Auntie Tita lived a few house away from ours in Gagalangin. We learned more about her through the Rosary devotion in our barangay. At first she came across as a reserved person, but gradually she participated more and more in the devotion. Eventually, she was voted Treasurer of the Queen of Families Rosary Group. She once told my mother and I that she would have preferred to be an ordinary member, but she couldn't say no to our perseverance. She passed away on 11 June.

May God bless their kind souls.

***

I dedicate my final note to my late aunt Mommy Rosie Samaniego whose 18th death anniversary occurs today. Mommy Rosie's love for her nephews and nieces knew no bounds. I happily recall her kind words and actions especially as we celebrate the Year of Mercy. I pray for her soul's eternal repose, full of hope in the words of Jesus: "Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy" (Matthew 5:7).







Public Property

Who says that only politicians and showbiz personalities are public properties? I like to think that parents too are public properties.  It becomes evident when our kids (or grand kids, if you have one) pick up what they see us say or do. 

Being fond of classical and traditional Filipino music, I would listen to either of these while driving or at home.  Chiara, who would often hear these, has shown some interest too. I once watched on YouTube Nyoy Volante impersonating Sylvia La Torre in “Your Face Sounds Familiar”, a contest organised by ABS-CBN. Nyoy was singing “Sa Kabukiran” to the glee of my unica hija. She was more delighted when she listened to Sylvia’s own rendition of that famous song (and more).

There is a feeling of satisfaction when she picks up something positive. Conversely, there is disappointment when it’s something negative that she imitates.

One wintry evening, as I was about to fetch Nidz from work, our old car won’t start. Annoyed, I swore three times. Suddenly, Chiara repeated what I said. I felt remorseful after that event. Ditto those moments such as when she asked me  while I was parking somewhere , “Daddy what is that?” and I could not respond because the sign says “No parking”.  I recall what Tita Lilia Reyes would often say “Ipakita mo na sa matanda, huwag lang sa bata”. 

Because our kids ‘own’ us, it comes as a daily challenge to be their role model, to nurture them in a responsible and Christian way. Gone are the days of buhay binata.  These are the times of sharing, of putting the house in order.

I have been involved lately  in a project collecting 100 anecdotes in honor of my Lola Piling  Valdes-Albano whose 100^th birth anniversary is celebrated this year. A few anecdotes that I came across mentioned the Sacred Heart of Jesus to whom Lola was devoted to. She once advised the Apostleship of Prayer members in Gagalangin to say “Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in Thee” 33 times (in honor of the number of years the Lord stayed on earth). As the project is due to conclude tomorrow, I felt a rediscovery of this devotion particularly that beautiful prayer. Entrusting everything – my vocation, family, work, etc. – to the Lord’s Sacred Heart is key to become a nurturing father, a good role model.  

To all fathers out there, here’s wishing us all a Happy Father’s Day this Sunday!  May our hearts be like that of Jesus so that our children and others who look up to us may find life and have it to the full (cf. John 10:10).

***

As I write this, I cannot fail to remember Lolo Paul Albano, whose 104^th birth anniversary is commemorated today. One afternoon, many summers ago, as I was playing in their bedroom, I saw him apply something like a roll-on stick on his hair and combed it.  When he left I mimicked my grandfather, however I struggled to comb my hair as smoothly as he did his! The maid has to wash my hair to get rid of Lolo’s pomade! The sticky pomade is all gone, but my Lolo’s memory, his religiosity, devotion to family and service to the community continue to thrive in my veins. Thank you, Lolo Paul! Happy birthday po!

Who Takes the Credit?

June 13 this year has a double celebration in the Church: the feast of the Immaculate Heart of Mary and of St Anthony of Padua.  St Anthony of Padua once said "Attribute to God every good that you have received. If you take credit for something that does not belong to you, you will be guilty of theft". 

Strong words from a saint who is more popularly known for his intercession in finding lost items than for his eloquent preaching.

Indeed, when was the last time that we really acknowledged God as the source of everything good that we have - health, wealth, career, house and lot, car, apostolate in the community, long life, etc? Sometimes, it can be easier for us to take all the credit because, as humans, we tend to be visual - we only see our inputs, our efforts, our sacrifices.If we lack faith, we would hardly see God's own inputs (and those of others like our parents).

Perhaps the way for us to see the goods we enjoy as God's gifts is to be like the Blessed Virgin Mary. In the Annunciation, she acknowledged herself as God's handmaid and readily submitted herself to His will. She never bragged about being God's Mother, but rather sang His praises in the Magnificat.  No wonder that St John Eudes, a priest known for his devotion to the Hearts of Jesus and Mary, would say "Do you forget that not only does Jesus reside and dwell in Mary's Heart, but that he is in truth the heart of her Heart and the soul of her soul...?".

I recall how my Lola Piling and Lolo Paul conducted themselves with daily Mass, looking after their growing family, and working as physicians. My grandmother once said that they didn't suffer any fatigue or headache in spite of their busy and challenging schedules. They acknowledged God's abiding presence in their lives.

This double celebration should not pass unnoticed. Let's be grateful for all that the Lord has done for us. Remember:  "Let not a wise man boast of his wisdom, and let not the mighty man boast of his might, let not a rich man boast of his riches; but let him who boasts boast of this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the LORD who exercises loving kindness, justice and righteousness on earth; for I delight in these things," declares the LORD" (Jeremiah 9:23-24).

Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for us.

St Anthony of Padua, pray for us.

First Salubong in Gagalangin

(2015 marks the 100th birth anniversary of my late grandmother Dr Pilar Valdes-Albano. Part of that celebration is to feature anecdotes in her Facebook group page. Below is the anecdote featured last May 20, her 15th death anniversary.)

As Easter draws to a close this Pentecost Sunday, I cannot fail to recall one summer morning in 1980 when Manong Romy Sanchez, one of our drivers, brought me and my younger brother Gio to Tayuman to collect statues of the Risen Christ and of the Mater Dolorosa (Sorrowful Mother). Upon reaching home, Lola Piling (we lived with our grandparents during that time) had a look at the statues. She had the Virgin Mary’s statue placed in one corner, but had Jesus’ statue returned. Another statue was brought later that day, but this too didn’t satisfy Lola’s taste.

Meanwhile, all of us grandchildren at that time who were staying in Manila, were rehearsing with Fr Loreto Palafox, St Rita Hospital Chaplain, and Tita Tessa Albano. The song was in Latin. Manong Coy Alcantara was chosen to be the soloist. In our young minds, we didn’t have a clue of what we will be doing and why.Everything seemed rushed.

One evening, we all went to Rotonda where a stage was ready. The statue of the Virgin Mary on a float was brought in and Manong Coy had a try of reaching the statue’s head. We left a few minutes later. Still, no idea what we will be doing and why.

The following day, all of us woke up very early and were dressed in white long dress complete with white hairclips! (Don’t ask me why even us boys have to wear clips!) As we took a ride from the house to Rotonda, we saw a young priest speaking with Lolo Paul. It was Msgr Feliciano Santos, the new parish priest.

Rotonda was already full of people. We assembled on the stage. Fr Palafox was nearby as well as Tita Tessa who provided the musical accompaniment. I think Tito Alex too helped with another musical instrument. From Yangco Street, the float of the Virgin Mary came forth. Later, from S. del Rosario Street came a brightly lit float of the Risen Christ. With the floats facing each other, it was time for us to sing: Regina coeli laetare, alleluia, alleluia, alleluia, alleluia, alleluia, alleluia! (Queen of heaven rejoice, , alleluia, alleluia, alleluia, alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!). Manong Coy would later remove the black veil of Our Lady’s statue. After our song, an effigy of Judas Iscariot was burned down – I later found out that this was a custom in Ilocos Norte. Then we headed to St Joseph Church for the Easter Sunday Mass.

Years later, I discovered that there was no Salubong – that religious tradition in the Philippines commemorating the Risen Jesus’ encounter with His mother Mary - in Gagalangin before 1980. Which is why Lola would describe to me this event as an ‘emergency’. Perhaps when Msgr Santos assumed pastoral responsibility, he was surprised to find out the absence of a Salubong and requested for one to be held. Lola, during that time, was President of the Catholic Women’s League. She may have been asked for help or she may have volunteered. Either way, she was more than happy to help!

The next Salubongs in Gagalangin didn’t have any Albanos participating as a number of members started to migrate to the States. As we spend our Holy Week in Cavite, my three sisters – Gisela, Nicola, and Kristina –were often performing as angels. Right here in Nottingham, our Filipino Rosary Crusade have our own version of the Salubong. It may not be as lavish as its counterpart at home, but it attempts to evangelize especially our kids and young people who have not been aware of this tradition. Chiara has been one of the kids singing!

Thank you, Lola for introducing us to such a beautiful Easter tradition. May your good example be a source of inspiration for us to remain generous so that, emergency or not, we would be ready to lend a hand to the community. It’s been 15 years since you passed away. Today, as we gather to offer for you the Mass of the Resurrection – that’s how you call a Requiem Mass - may our faith be renewed in Him who triumphed over sin and death. May you be at peace in your personal salubong with the Risen Lord and the Blessed Mother!

Thy Will Be Done

"Hanapin mo ang kalooban ng Diyos. Sabihin mo lagi 'Panginoon, ituro mo sa akin ang kalooban Mo'". (Search for the will of God. Always say, 'Lord teach me Your will') These were the words I would often hear from Lola Piling during my teenage years.  For some time, I would just let the words pass from one ear to another. Like any teenagers, I wanted to gain that independence, to seek my will and not someone else's. Such was my stubbornness that I didn't even bother to ask her what God's will is.  

One time, Ms. Melba Silvela, our Religion teacher in 4th year high school, asked us to write an essay. I can't remember now what the topic was all about, but I wrote something like it was God's will that something bad has happened (An earthquake perhaps? Mind you, there was an earthquake that hit Luzon that year).  Nanay Bang, as I now call this beloved teacher, read my paper aloud and corrected me. She said it wasn't God's will that calamities happen. Rather God permitted them to happen. So from then on, I learned that God's will isn't the same as God's permission; particularly that God won't will for His creation to be destroyed.

I continued to ask my peers (rather than my superiors). One classmate Fernando Lopez (not the former Vice President!) who once was a seminarian told me that God's will is in His 10 commandments. Later in college, when I was studying Ethics, I learned that to know God's will is to read the Scriptures. Finally, another ex-seminarian, told me that God's will can be discovered when you are at peace with your decisions.

We've often prayed "Thy will be done" without fully understanding nor sincerely seeking for it.  However, as a parent now myself, I realize the huge responsibility of raising my child as a good Christian. I dread the day Chiara might ask me what it is and I'll find myself dribbling my answer like a basketball. Worse, I might set a bad example to her (and to others). 

During Lola's final phone call to me and my siblings in Manila about 15 years ago, her last words to me were "Always communicate with God." What a perfect way to know the Lord's will than to communicate with Him!  

Lent gives us all that opportunity to have a hard look at our stubborn selves.  Is our will working? If not, then it's definitely time to try someone else's; someone who is faithful (1 Corinthians 1:9). We may not find it straightaway and be perplexed like St Joseph when he discovered his future wife to be with child. But if we are humble and open like this son of David, we will soon discover what God really wants.

God's will may seem to be undrinkable like the cup of suffering that Jesus referred to in His agony in the garden (Matthew 26:39), but let us trust the Father the way Jesus did. Didn't Christ say that "My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me and to accomplish His work." (John 4:34)?

Going back to Lola, she was a devotee of St Joseph. Her favorite color is green which is one of St Joe's symbolic color (the other being yellow). But beyond the green attire she wore, I found in her persona the true essence of being a devotee of this great saint: obedience to God's will.

Happy 100th birthday, Lola Piling! Thank you for your unfailing love and motherly guidance. Thank you for putting up with such a hard-headed grandson. Thank you for always reminding me with what matters most in being a Christian, in being a person.  Keep on inspiring us, keep on praying for us that our hearts too may always say "Thy will be done"!  Rest in God's abiding peace. I love you!

Maka-matanda

Maka-matanda (able to mature). That's how some contemporaries would use to describe me when I was 10 years old or so.  For when schools are closed and kids would often play under the scorching heat of the sun, I was nowhere in the streets. I was in the kubol (chapel) joining my aunt and other elders chanting the Pasyong Mahal (a poem on the life of Jesus sung during Lent). 

In my early teens (and this was when we moved back in Manila), the church would be the only place I would be after school - attending Mass or any pious activity, attending meetings or choir practice, etc.  When I was contemplating on what church group I would like to join, I had in mind the Cofradia de San Jose, an organization composed of adults, mostly elderly men and women in the parish. 

As I progressed in school then to university and later got a job, I became less immersed in church. It was not because I found the devotion boring, but it was because I lacked the time to do what I used to do.  There were 2 instances that seem to be wake up calls for me.  

I was then teaching in UST. Two of my students approached me and frankly told me, "Sir, bakit ang sungit ninyo? Siguro 'di kayo nagsisimba?" (Sir, why are you so ill-tempered? Perhaps you haven't been to church lately?).  (Now these two students knew me as I taught them in a previous semester. Apart from that, I was one of their advisers in the Pax Romana-College of Science chapter.) I was dumbfounded.  Thinking about it, I do go to church every Sunday, but that was it! Soon, I made it an effort to attend daily Mass at the UST Chapel, UST Hospital Chapel, or the neighboring Espiritu Santo Parish Church. 

Just a few years later, we had a speaker in one of our Christian Life Programs at the Singles for Christ in Gagalangin. He shared with us how he would attend daily Mass. After his talk, I approached and praised him for his devotion. I went further by asking him how does he still find time to do it. "Hinihingi 'yan, brod." (You just need to ask for it, brother). 

True, there may be moments when going to church daily would be a tall order, but if we humble ourselves and ask God for the grace to be there, He will give us that chance. In my young mind then, I've seen how this grace operated in the life of my Lolo Paul. In spite of his hectic schedule, he and Lola Piling, would still find time to attend daily Mass at the St Rita Hospital Chapel.  

On one rare occasion, there was an emergency in the hospital (someone due to give birth perhaps) while Mass was being offered. Lolo was called by the nurse.  He left the chapel straightaway. Later, Lola followed him.  I guess this would be understandable especially if there is a patient in need. To ignore this person would be tantamount to ignoring Jesus present in him (Matthew 25:40).

It's Lolo Paul's 30th death anniversary today. Looking back, I am grateful. Grateful for having that chance to be immersed in those forms of devotion, of being up and about in "the Father's business", of being able to mature in the faith. Grateful for having such a loving grandfather who made this possible. Following his good example, may I strive "to act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with God" (cf. Micah 6:8).

Rest in God's peace, Lolo Paul! We love you!

Something is Going to Happen

Salve, Regina, Mater misericordiæ,vita, dulcedo, et spes nostra, salve.

These are the first lines of a popular Marian song sung at many churches in the Philippines in May. The first time I heard the Salve Regina,  I was a little kid attending Mass at the St Rita Hospital Chapel many summers ago. It was the closing song sung by my late grandparents during May.  While they are making a duet, some attendees would place flowers on the altar table for the Blessed Virgin. 

Since then, every time I hear this song, I have a feeling that something is going to happen. For example, in Gagalangin church (as well as other churches for sure), once the Salve is intoned by the priest, the statue of Mary is incensed. This is followed later by sprinkling holy water to all devotees present.

During our visit to relatives in Staten Island, New York in 2012, my uncles and aunts asked me to say "Grace before Meals". I agreed. For some reason, after the prayer I intoned the Salve. I thought I would be doing a solo, but lo and behold, others gathered especially my uncles sang! Nidz told me that even Chiara was singing. (See, something has happened!) I imagine how our forebears would have smiled at the sight!

When Chiara was still 2-3 years old, I once sang this song to her.  She kept on looking at me and then when I finished she said "Ang galing!" (Excellent). Now, she could sing it on her own! Part of our night prayers for quite some time now is singing this beautiful song. One time my daughter was too tired so I told her just to close her eyes while I sing. I thought of doing this because the Salve is like a goodnight kiss to Mama Mary. As we entrust ourselves (when we were kids) to our earthly mothers as we go to bed, so now we confide ourselves to our heavenly mother. Before you know it, something has happened - another day has dawned. Our mission continues! 

I have always believed that the Blessed Mother has been praying for me, her unworthy son, through and through.  In the many ups and downs of life, I have sought her maternal care and protection and I have never been turned down.

I'm turning 40 on the 20th.  As I look back at those many years - of fruits coupled with thorns, triumphs hand in hand with failures, light constantly challenged by darkness, friends mixed with foes -  I believe that God has plans for me, that something in His own time and fashion is going to happen. Like Mary and her husband Joseph, may I have a heart which is open, humble, thankful, and trustful.

Ora pro nobis, sancta Dei Genitrix. Ut digni efficiamur promissionibus Christi. 

(Pray for us O Holy Mother of God. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.)

A Sunday with the Pope

Being in Rome, for me, would be incomplete without seeing the Pope.  During our first trip to the Eternal City, we didn't get that chance to see Pope Benedict XVI - we arrived a day after the general audience and then we heard that he was on a pastoral visit in another part of Italy.  

The papacy has been an important part of our Christian faith.  It traces its roots from St Peter the Apostle who was chosen to lead His Church.  Because of his role as our spiritual leader, we Catholics fondly call the Pope as Holy Father.  

February 23, a day after the Consistory.  I woke up at 5:30am. After having a light breakfast, we made our way to St Peter's Basilica.  We met  some aunts and a lone uncle from the Valdes Family along the way. Tia Dulce Valdes-Barangan and I were teasing each other for we came early this time! There was already a queue at the piazza. My uncle and godfather Noel Valdes looked for some relatives who may already be lining up. Chiara went with him.  Just a few minutes and he was waving his hand to us.  People were in a huddle as we all waited for the doors of the church to be open.  Chiara was enjoying her time with her great uncles, great aunts, and other relatives.  Nidz, Jackie, and I were next to another uncle (and godfather) Paulino "Sonny" Albano, Papa's oldest brother, the patriarch of the Valdes-Albano clan.  Ninong Sonny was recalling stories of how he heard about Tito Orly's appointment as a cardinal.  I asked him how we became related with the Cardinal as I thought it was through the Beltran side (Cardinal Quevedo's middle name is Beltran; the same surname as my great great grandmother's when she was still single). My uncle explained that it was through the Edralin-Estavillo side; his grandmother (Hilaria Estavillo-Albano) and the Cardinal's grandmother were cousins.

Men smartly dressed approached all those in the queue to remind them of their tickets.  Some of the guests such as Ninong Sonny and his wife Ninang Noemi had special tickets. They were asked to follow the men as they have reserved seats in the basilica. 

The church doors were now open. People slowly made their way passing through security checks. As we entered the basilica, I was pointing Chiara to some statues and pictures.  Ushers were distributing Mass booklets for all churchgoers.  We chose seats near the aisle to have a good view of the Pope. We were quite near the statue of St Camillus de Lellis, patron saint of Nurses. (Just a few days before this occasion, we visited his mortal remains at the Church of St Mary Magdalene situated near the Pantheon.) Filipinos from Cotabato, Tito Orly's archdiocese, sat next to us. For some reason, I didn't see Papa, my sisters Nicola and Kristina, and some other relatives from where we were. I later managed to see my 2 sisters who were sat near to us.

Cardinals and bishops started to arrive. Tito Orly approached a few of us before making his way to the sacristy. In preparation for the Mass, the Rosary was recited. Each mystery was announced in Italian, English, Spanish, and French. The prayers though were in Latin.  Afterwards, the choir led in singing the Salve Regina.  Chiara, with a prodding from her mom, joined in the singing - this caught the attention of my aunt Ching Valdes-Aran and an Italian woman who were both sat in front of us.  Towards the last few lines of the song, I suddenly remembered Lolo Paul, Lola Piling, and Mommy Rosie - all three taught me how to sing this song. I couldn't sing any more.  I just felt my eyes wet.

Mass followed immediately.  I held my breath as well as Nidz's mobile phone while waiting for Pope Francis walk along the aisle. Altar servers, cardinal-concelebrants, and finally the Holy Father.  Pope Francis came across as a simple man. His green vestments and miter were not as ornate as his predecessor's. These simple apparel were matched by the papal ferula - a silver cross used by Pope Paul VI. As he walked past us, I made the sign of the cross. I felt blessed! 

On the right hand side of the basilica, I could see the statue of St Peter sat on a chair. One of the feet of this statue is worn out because of the many pilgrims touching it. During the Consistory, the statue was dressed like a medieval pope with a tiara and cape.  Personally, I would prefer an undressed statue.  First of all, St Peter would not have dressed like that. Second, let's keep things consistent with Pope Francis' simplicity.

The Mass was in Latin, but the booklet has provided English and Italian translations. (I wish though that the Mass was said in Italian. Ditto the Rosary. Italian, unlike Latin, is a living language.) Some readings and prayers were in other languages. The verses of the Psalm were in English. One of the prayers in the Prayer of the Faithful was in Filipino!  The Pope, having only 1 lung, recited all the presidential prayers.  In spite of that, his homily - although in Italian - was full of power. He spoke about the Holy Spirit, underscoring our calling to listen to Him "...who enlivens the Church".  He also mentioned the importance of holiness in the ministry of a cardinal. Furthermore, he reminded that cardinals enter the Church of Rome and not a royal court. To illustrate his point, he enjoined all cardinals to "...avoid, and help others to avoid, habits and ways of acting typical of a court: intrigue, gossip, cliques, favouritism and partiality". Towards the end of the homily, he asked everyone for prayers "that the College of Cardinals may always be ever more fervent in pastoral charity and filled with holiness, in order to serve the Gospel and to help the Church radiate Christ’s love in our world".

After the Mass, we once again huddled near the aisle again to catch a glimpse of the Pope.  As he got nearer to us, some from the crowd shouted "Papa! Papa! Papa!".  This caught his attention and he smiled! 

We proceeded to the piazza for the Sunday Angelus led by the Pope. We met Nicola there as well as Ninong Sonny and Ninang Noemi. While waiting for the Angelus, Chiara had a photo op with an Asian bishop.

When the clock struck 12, we saw the Pope from a far distance (in a window on the papal apartments).  I think the location where the Holy Father leads this Marian prayer should be changed to make him more nearer the people. Being on a window of the apartment where he doesn't reside still shows trappings of medieval power. Why not the balcony of the basilica?

In his message, the Pope mentioned that "in Jesus Christ we are all children of God!" and that "Those who have received a ministry to lead, preach and administer the Sacraments should not consider themselves as possessing special powers, as masters; rather, they should place themselves at the service of the community, helping it to pursue the path of holiness with joy". He later asked people to assist the new cardinals through their prayers: "Pray for us, that we might be good servants: good servants, not good masters!" All of us together....must offer the witness of a Church that is faithful to Christ, animated by the desire to serve the brethren, and ready to go out with prophetic courage to meet the expectations and spiritual needs of the men and women of our time".

It's almost a year when Jorge Mario Cardinal Bergoglio was elected Pope by his brother cardinals.  His first act was to ask people to pray for him.  Let's renew our support to the Holy Father - he really needs it considering the many challenges he is facing: clergy sexual abuse, role of women in the Church, reform of the Roman Curia, family life, to name a few.

Heartfelt greetings, prayers, and best wishes, Pope Francis on the occasion of the first anniversary of your pontificate!  May the Good Shepherd continue to strengthen you so that you may "Feed my lambs...Take care of my sheep...Feed my sheep" (Jn 21:15-17). Viva il Papa Francesco! Noi ti amiamo!